THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW

  As we return to our succession of "Ordinary Sundays" we will enjoy the Gospel of Matthew throughout the remainder of the Church year. This weekend we land in the 10th Chapter. Here, Jesus commissions the first disciples to go forth and carry on His ministry of Good News, of teaching, healing, forgiveness and New Life. He reminds the disciples that they will face difficulties, but that they should trust in God. He tells them, and us, that God knows everything -- there are no secrets in God's world. And besides knowing everything, He cares more than we can comprehend. He cares about every tiny detail of our lives -- "even the hairs on your head are counted!" So, let us take our part, in spite of today's troubles, and shout out the Good News, acknowledging our great God and sharing His abundant compassion.

AND MORE...

   If you are looking for more spiritual reading for summer, I suggest the Letter of St. Paul to the Romans. For the next three months, we will hear portions of this letter Sunday by Sunday, bit by bit. It is Paul's most comprehensive letter, filled with theology and spirituality. This is the only letter he writes to a specific community that he has not yet been part of, or the found of. He is on his way to Rome, likely for imprisonment and trial that would determine his fate. Still, he looks forward to meeting Christians there, and others. This letter is his way of introducing himself and his beliefs. The explanations and descriptions he offers are more comprehensive and detailed. This letter helps us understand Paul's thinking in several matters important to our faith. It also challenges us to delve more deeply into our understanding of the Lord's ways and our spiritual lives. What a wonderful summer refresher course! 

                                     

PRAYER FOR SPIRITUAL COMMUNION

  Lord Jesus, I believe that You are truly present in the Eucharist. I love you above all things        and I desire to receive You into my soul. Since I cannot recieve You at the present time sacramentally, come into my heart. I embrace You and pray to unite myself completely to You. Never permit me to be separated from You. Amen.