Monday of the Fourth Week of Easter

The Martyrs of England and Wales

Readings of the Day
RB: Prologue 14-20
Mass: Acts 11:1-18; Resp Ps 42; 43; Jn 10:11-18

Athirst is my soul for the living God.

MARY, QUEEN OF MARTYRS,

PRAY FOR US.

In today's Gospel, Jesus is clear: I am the good shepherd (Jn 10:1). The Good Shepherd leads everyone, saints and sinners alike, without exception. May we all hear and listen to His voice (Jn 10:16). We hear the Good Shepherd's voice through Saint Benedict and today's passage from the Holy Rule:

Seeking workers in a multitude of people, the Lord calls out and lifts His voice again: Is there anyone here who yearns for life and desires to see good days? (Ps 33[34]:13). If you hear this and your answer is "I do," God then directs these words to you: If you desire true and eternal life, keep your tongue free from vicious talk and your lips from all deceit; turn away from evil and do good; let peace be your quest and aim (Ps 33[34]:14-15). Once you have done this, my eyes will be upon you and my ears will listen for your prayers: and even before you ask me, I will say to you: Here I am (Is 58:9). What, dear brothers and sisters, is more delightful than this voice of the Lord calling to us? See how the Lord in His love shows us the way of life.

We pray with the Holy Father:

For families, that they may persevere in peace with creativity and patience during this quarantine. We also pray for unity among all men and women. May the Lord free us from the psychology of division. May He help us see this aspect, this great reality about Jesus: and that in Him we are all brothers and sisters and He is the Shepherd of all. The word for today is: "Everyone, everyone!"

ALL MARTYRS OF ENGLAND AND WALES,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: A garden shot from the Fourth Sunday of Easter.

© Gertrude Feick 2020