“all things are possible for god.”

October 2021

“All things are possible for God.”Mark 10:27

DEAR READERS:Living Faith is your daily invitation

to immerse yourself in God’s Word and to pray. Time spent in prayer is never wasted. Prayer, the saints tell us, is conversation with God. Prayer builds up the interior life, energizing and directing our activities, our vocations. I call it my appointment with God. It’s on my calendar—a space defended against other commit-ments. Taming the busy and often insignificant distrac-tions that fight to divert my attention is challenging, but with the Spirit, we do not battle alone.

In this issue, find a short new feature—a “prayer prompt”—on pages 102-103. Arming you with saintly inspiration, it invites you to prayerfully consider add-ing the Rosary to your day. You may doubt that you can give more time to prayer, but Jesus reminds us, “All things are possible for God” (Mark 10:27).

Thanks to you who have signed up to be Ambassa-dors—your influence grows! Learn more on page 101.

Pat Gohn, editor

Mary kept all these things,reflecting on them in her heart.

— Luke 2:19

LivingFaith.com

Volume 37 • Number 3

Pat Gohn, Editor Kasey Nugent, Assistant Editor

James E. Adams, Founding Editor

Living Faith provides daily reflections based on a Scripture passage from the daily Mass. With readings for daily Mass

listed at the bottom of each devotion, this booklet helps Cath-olics pray and meditate in spirit with the seasons of the Church

Year. Citations are from the Mass Lectionary, which is based on the New American Bible.

IMPRIMATURBishop Mark S. Rivituso, Auxiliary Bishop • Archdiocese of St. Louis

NB: The imprimatur indicates this publication contains nothing contrary to Cath-olic teaching. No endorsement of the opinions expressed therein is implied.

Copyright © 2021 by Creative Communications for the Parish

LIVING FAITH (USPS 746-210) Vol. 37 No.3 (ISSN 1055-5463) is published quarterly in January, April, July and October by Creative Communications for the Parish, 1564 Fencorp Drive, Fenton, MO 63026, a subsidiary of Bayard, Inc., sponsored by the Augustinians of the Assumption. Subscription rates: 1 year, $15.00; single copy, $4.50. Periodicals postage paid at Fenton, MO, and at additional mailing offices. Canadian GST# is 84231 1870RT. Printed in the USA. Customer service: (800)246-7390. Website: LivingFaith.com.Please note: On occasion LIVING FAITH gives permission to other organizations to use our list for promotional purposes. If you do not wish to receive these mailings, please notify our Fenton, MO, office or email us at [email protected]: Send address changes to LIVING FAITH, 1564 Fencorp Drive, Fenton, MO 63026.

Cover photo by Shutterstock / Wisanu Boonrawd.

October • November • December 2021

LivingFaith

Friday, October 1 St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus

Honest Self-ExaminationFrom the time the Lord led our ancestors out of the land of Egypt until the present day, we have been disobedient to the Lord, our God, and only too ready to disregard his voice. Baruch 1:19

Sitting in our large stone, echo-prone cathedral during Mass, I heard a phone. It wasn’t a full-out ring, but that pulsing, vibrating sound of an almost “silenced” phone. It sounded as if it were coming from across the church. I waited, smirking, for the owner to turn it off. It kept going.

Whatever. Persistent but faint, it sounded far away. Not my problem. Annoying, but not my problem.

Then I felt my purse…vibrating. Oh. Who knows where the problems in life begin, where

they’re rooted? As the people of Israel were able to ad-mit their own culpability, so should I—examining my own life first—instead of instinctively casting blame “out there.”

Merciful Lord, I place myself in your presence, honestly. Amy Welborn

Amy Welborn is author to more than 20 books on Catholic life and spir-ituality. She writes from Birmingham, AL. Visit AmyWelborn.com.

Baruch 1:15-22 • Psalm 79:1-5, 8-9 Luke 10:13-16

Saturday, October 2 The Holy Guardian Angels

An Angel Watching Over MeSee that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father. Matthew 18:10

As “a little one,” I was taught both at home and in the parochial school I attended that a guardian angel was with me at all times. Children are impressionable, and I was no exception. That message took root and led me to trust in this protection and guidance. Years later, I continue to draw strength and comfort from this teach-ing, especially when I’ve had a close call—like the time a young driver ran a red light as I drove through a busy intersection. That car came within inches of crashing into where I was seated. After I managed to stop shaking from fright, I thought of my angel and offered thanks. This feast reminds us to awaken our awareness of those hidden ones who are there for us in our time of need. It’s amazing how often they come through for us.

Sr. Joyce Rupp, O.S.M.

Baruch 4:5-12, 27-29 • Psalm 69:33-37 Matthew 18:1-5, 10

Genesis 2:18-24 • Psalm 128:1-6 Hebrews 2:9-11 • Mark 10:2-16

October 3 Twenty-Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

Marriage—On the Way to Heaven…and the two shall become one flesh. Mark 10:8

I can only imagine what it’s like to lose a spouse. Over many years as a weekend assistant at a local parish, I have seen the face of grief. Am I seeing this as it really is? Such losses are etched on the faces and in the bear-ing of those left behind. It’s as though the process of aging has been accelerated.

One should not be surprised. We are made for com-munion, and so is the great blessing of marriage. Life is meant to be shared, and marriage and family are where that takes place for most of us. This is a corner-stone of God’s plan for human life, this intimate bond that extends out to the care and education of children and radiates beyond the family to those in need. Its flourishing counts so much toward the common good.

Lord, may they serve you—happily and faithfully togeth-er—until, at last, one should lay the other into the arms of God.

Fr. Dennis Gallagher, A.A.

Fr. Dennis Gallagher, A.A., is the provincial of the North American Province of the Assumptionists. Learn more at Assumption.us.

Monday, October 4 St. Francis of Assisi

The OutsiderWhere do you come from? What is your country, and to what people do you belong? Jonah 1:8

Most of us know what it’s like to feel like an outsid-er. Although we want to be warmly welcomed and accepted, we may feel judged, misunderstood and insecure. This is the story of Jonah, with his experience of being thrown off the boat into the raging sea. We could become motivated to help everyone feel valued, included. Yet there’s more to the story: Jonah’s pres-ence and message enable others to survive. Jonah was an outsider, and from his story, we see how outsiders are important.

The value of the outsider persists in much good storytelling, including today’s parable of the Good Samaritan. To show who a neighbor is and how to love, Jesus makes the kind hero of his story someone surprising—a person on the outside of society. Yet this character helps provide safety, employment, health. Through the most surprising encounters, great trans-formation is possible.

God, help me value outsiders and offer warm welcome. Sr. Julia Walsh, F.S.P.A.

Jonah 1:1—2:2, 11 • Jonah 2:3-5, 8 Luke 10:25-37

Jonah 3:1-10 • Psalm 130:1-4, 7-8 Luke 10:38-42

Tuesday, October 5 Bl. Francis Xavier Seelos

The One Thing NeededMary…sat beside the Lord…listening to him speak. Martha, burdened with much serving, came to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? Tell her to help me.” The Lord said to her in reply, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part…” Luke 10:39-42

For years, reading this story, I have felt the unfairness of Martha being stuck with getting everything done to feed Jesus and those who came with him. He didn’t understand how hard that is. Then I read it on a day when I was terribly worried. I began to hear a loving tone in his voice and realized he was inviting her, (and right then, me) to the one thing needed—to sit in his loving presence.

Jesus, when we are anxious, help us pause and realize we are in your loving presence. When we need to continue serving, help us hold your presence close.

Patricia LivingstonGot worries? Add your intercessory prayer needs to our Prayer Center at LivingFaith.com.

Wednesday, October 6 St. Bruno, Bl. Marie Rose Durocher

Our Profound PrivilegeHe said to them, “When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name…” Luke 11:2

On a particular occasion, Jesus was deeply immersed in prayer. When he concluded, one of his apostles asked him to teach them to pray. Jesus replied with the proper noun, Father, followed by the adjective hallowed. In these words of the Lord’s Prayer, as stated in St. Luke’s Gospel from the lips of Jesus, we are instructed to address God as Father.

It is a marvelous and profound privilege to be-lieve the God of the universe is our Father. However, from God’s perspective, we’re impressed even more because God identifies and tenderly loves us as his children. This intimate, spiritual relationship between Father and children is the most sacred union I could ever understand or even imagine. My Father’s name is hallowed—holy, divine, glorious and forever honored. Lingering over the meaning of Father and hallowed, I humbly lift up my soul to thank Jesus for teaching me to pray.

Fr. James McKarns

Jonah 4:1-11 • Psalm 86:3-6, 9-10 Luke 11:1-4

Malachi 3:13-20b • Psalm 1:1-4, 6 Luke 11:5-13

Thursday, October 7 Our Lady of the Rosary

Our Persistent GodI tell you…he will get up to give him whatever he needs because of his persistence. Luke 11:8

When I was in high school trying to discern what to do with my life, the thought arose, “Why not consider being a nun?” The thought came not just a few times; it came regularly. In fact, it even intruded when I was out having fun with friends or when I was slow danc-ing with wonderful Rich at his senior prom. It was the sheer persistency of the idea that finally drove me to check out religious life and eventually to enter the convent.

When we think of prayer, we sometimes assume that we are the ones who must be persistent. We must ask God again and again for things we see as good. If we are persistent enough, we figure, God will answer our prayer. But maybe we’ve got it backward. Maybe it is God who is the Persistent One—patiently, untiringly, perseveringly—urging us always to greater selfless loving.

Sr. Melannie Svoboda, S.N.D.On this feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, discover our new Prayer Prompt feature about the Rosary on pages 102-103.

Friday, October 8

Our Battle Against SinThen it goes back and brings back seven other spirits more wicked than itself who move in and dwell there, and the last condition of that man is worse than the first. Luke 11:26

Remember the last time you went to confession? Maybe it seemed like a bit of a waste; the sins you confessed—gossiping, raising your voice to a family member, spending too much money—seem to have all come back, more frequently than before.

That’s the thing about evil, whether it manifests itself in mortal or venial sin. Confession tidies up our souls. But if we don’t invite Christ in to take up that space and help in our battle against sin, evil will be more than happy to come back and take up resi-dence again—and bring along some friends. Our best defense is a door locked and fortified by faith. Let evil attempt to take up residence somewhere else.

Jesus, may I open my heart so that you can infuse your goodness into all my empty spaces.

Melanie RigneyMelanie Rigney is an author of several books, including Menopause Moments from Twenty-third Publications. Learn more on page 110.

Joel 1:13-15; 2:1-2 • Psalm 9:2-3, 6, 16, 8-9 Luke 11:15-26

Joel 4:12-21 • Psalm 97:1-2, 5-6, 11-12 Luke 11:27-28

Saturday, October 9 St. Denis and Companions; St. John Leonardi

Light in the DarknessSun and moon are darkened,

and the stars withhold their brightness… The heavens and the earth quake,

but the Lord is a refuge to his people… Joel 4:15-16

We’ve been through a lot in the past few years: natu-ral disasters, a global pandemic, social and political unrest. Our losses have been personal as well as col-lective. Many of us have lost or been separated from loved ones. We’ve seen our work lives change, often dramatically. Yet while the tumult of this time has been real, the uncertainty of life is not new. We have never been able to guarantee our safety or that of the people we love. What we take for granted today can be gone in an instant. The one thing we are sure of is that God is with us through it all. The Lord is our refuge, our shelter in the storm. He is with us when the darkness presses in and we can’t see the path at our feet.

Lord of light, be with me in the darkness.Karla Manternach

October 10 Twenty-Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Hard but Not ImpossibleJesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” Mark 10:23

When reading this familiar warning from Jesus, it’s easy to do two things. First, we think Jesus isn’t talking to us because we’re not wealthy (compared with those we know who are wealthier). And second, like the disciples in this story, we may just throw up our hands and say, “What’s the use, then? It’s impos-sible!”

But Jesus chose his words carefully. He didn’t say “wealthy,” he said, “wealth.” We all have wealth, and it can get in the way of our faith and reliance on God whether we count it in the hundreds or millions. Most importantly, Jesus never says “impossible.” He says hard. Hard is always possible with God.

God, make all things possible.Steve Givens

Steve Givens is a spiritual director from St. Louis and has written for Living Faith since 1988. He writes a blog at GivensCreative.com.

Wisdom 7:7-11 • Psalm 90:12-17 Hebrews 4:12-13 • Mark 10:17-30

Romans 1:1-7 • Psalm 98:1-4 Luke 11:29-32

Monday, October 11 St. John XXIII

Cooperating with the SpiritIf today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts. Psalm 95:8 (Alleluia verse)

A friend of mine had been wrestling with the Holy Spirit as he discerned his life journey. He felt God was nudging him toward a particular vocation. Every time he prayed about it, he felt confused and worried. In his despair, he decided to stop talking to God. He hoped God might leave him alone. As it happens, he was tired of wrestling, so he sat still for a moment to hear what God had to say. He asked, “Lord, tell me what you want me to do.”

God impressed upon his heart, “My son, you are called to be holy. Your vocation is to love in whatever way brings you and others closer to me and helps you break into a joyful song. So, why do you turn away from me?” At that moment, he realized he had hard-ened his heart for nothing. Like St. John XXIII, may we cooperate with God’s grace, knowing God’s work is worthy of our best efforts.

Lord, teach us to have faith as we cooperate with the Spirit.

Vivian Amu

Tuesday, October 12

The Glory of GodThe heavens declare the glory of God,

and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Psalm 19:2

In my childhood, my family lived at the highest point on top of a steep hill. One of my fondest memories is of my father shaking us awake late at night, wrapping us in blankets and carrying us out on the deck. Once there, we rubbed the sleep out of our eyes to gaze at a night sky alive with stars. I’ve forever been marked by the stillness, the gazing and the immensity that en-veloped me as I looked upward. It was an entry point into awe that shaped my worldview.

Both day and night, the natural world trumpets the praise of all that the hand of our Creator has brought into being and sustains with attentiveness. Perhaps today holds an invitation for us to spend time stargaz-ing, flower-sniffing or tree-sitting with a grateful heart.

Holy One, I thank you for your loving care of me and of all creation.

Sr. Chris Koellhoffer, I.H.M.


Romans 2:1-11 • Psalm 62:2-3, 6-7, 9 Luke 11:42-46

Wednesday, October 13

A Time to Make PeaceYou, O man, are without excuse, every one of you who passes judgment. Romans 2:1

They were both ushers at Mass and longtime fishing buddies. Both good-natured, they enjoyed the stories they brought home more than the fish they caught. But their friendship ripped apart in an instant. They argued on the way home from what turned out to be their last fishing trip together. Heated words and insults punctured the air. Each vowed never to speak to the other again. And with that, their self-imposed silence began. Both men were stubborn, and years passed before they ran out of excuses and regretted their harsh words.

When one of them learned that the other was in hos-pice, he prayed for strength to mend their friendship. He reached out and they stumbled through one last fish story before his buddy took his final breath.

Merciful God, help us make peace with those we have judged.

Gail GoleasGail Goleas is a pastoral associate in the Archdiocese of Chicago. She is also a contributor to Living Faith Kids.

Thursday, October 14 St. Callistus I

Are You Waiting?My soul waits for the Lord

more than sentinels wait for the dawn. Psalm 130:6

The tired sentinel, weary from being on high alert throughout the night, marks time until dawn. Every moment of waiting like an endurance test!

How well do you wait? Perhaps right now you are waiting for an overdue package, for medical test re-sults, for the birth of a baby or for a text from your son. Awaiting the outcome of a job interview may have us fretting and regretting. We all wait, sometimes long years, for some prayers to be answered.

Our souls yearn for the peace of Christ…longing for ultimate union with God for all eternity. Yet the Lord has not left us as lonely, pacing sentinels. Rather, God is with us in the waiting! Rest in him. The dawn of new life in Christ will come!

Abide with me, Lord, in the waiting.Jennifer Christ


Romans 4:1-8 • Psalm 32:1-2, 5, 11 Luke 12:1-7

Friday, October 15 St. Teresa of Jesus

My Only Fear Is Offending TheeBe afraid… Do not be afraid. Luke 12:5, 7

Today’s Gospel can be confusing. It tells us to be afraid of God who “has the power to cast into Gehenna” (verse 5), and then it says, “Do not be afraid.” Many theologians have grappled with this contradiction. I offer my own…

Facing the infinite majesty of God, we should be awed. Such grandeur and power ought never be trivi-alized. A reverential fear before God is appropriate.

At the same time, God’s infinite love and mercy are equally present. We bask in the warmth of God’s love. We rest securely in our Father’s loving arms. We ought to fear nothing in this life except offending the One who loves us so much.

As St. Teresa of Jesus prayed, “What I fear most is to lose you.”

My loving Father, may I never offend you in the least way. Let my every action this day, and always, thank you, praise you and speak of my love for you.

Msgr. Stephen J. Rossetti

Saturday, October 16 St. Hedwig, St. Margaret Mary Alacoque

Being ChosenYou descendants of Abraham, his servants,

sons of Jacob, his chosen ones! Psalm 105:6

When my family started watching the faith-based video series The Chosen, we presumed the photo on the DVD cover depicted Jesus. Turns out, it was Peter. Even more confusing was that Jesus isn’t the focal point of the first few episodes. Eventually, we realized the show isn’t just about Jesus being the Chosen One, it’s also about the people he’s chosen. As viewers, we get see these people’s lives transform as they, in turn, choose Jesus.

Today’s psalm proclaims: “The Lord remembers his covenant forever” (verse 8). As descendants of Abraham, that covenant makes each one of us “chosen ones.” Yet when we hear Jesus whisper “follow me” in our prayer time, do we drop our doubts and fears, like the disciples did their nets, and choose him over all else? If we did, I’m certain those around us would have the privilege of watching our lives transform.

Lord, help me to believe I am your chosen one. Inspire me to choose you in return.

Claire McGarry

Romans 4:13, 16-18 • Psalm 105:6-9, 42-43 Luke 12:8-12

Isaiah 53:10-11 • Psalm 33:4-5, 18-20, 22 Hebrews 4:14-16 • Mark 10:35-45

October 17 Twenty-Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time

‘Timely Help’For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sym-pathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin. Hebrews 4:15

This verse provides hope when I limp along on my spiritual journey. I gain courage from knowing Jesus experienced the fullness of humanity. He knew what it was like to grieve a friend’s death, to be disappointed when not understood, to empathize with those who suffered and to want to alleviate their pain, to be angry about injustice, and to watch his closest companions turn away from him. When I experience what I do not want to have in my life or in my heart, I remember how I can turn to the Holy One who knows and loves me with both my strengths and weaknesses. I can then embrace the message that concludes this passage from the Letter to the Hebrews: “So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help” (verse 16).

Sr. Joyce Rupp, O.S.M.

Discover the latest book in our Living Faith collection: 365 Hopeful Devotions for Catholics. See page 107.

Monday, October 18 St. Luke

Witnessing with LoveYour friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your Kingdom. Psalm 145:12 (responsorial)

We are at the age now when our adult children must make their own decisions about following the Lord and being faithful to the beliefs of the Church in which they were raised. As parents, it is hard for us some-times when they appear to reject or question the faith we love.

Sometimes we try to talk about the importance of our faith, or as the psalmist says, “discourse of the glo-ry of your Kingdom”(verse 11). But we also know that nagging is usually ineffective, so we attempt to “make known…the glorious splendor of your Kingdom” through example and witness. We pray before meals, we share spiritual reflections on holidays, we extend invitations to go to Mass. And yes, we talk about our faith when we can.

God doesn’t give up on them and neither do we. Our goal is to be witnesses and examples, even when we don’t know the outcome.

Holy Spirit, let our witness be honest, humble and pure.Greg Erlandson

2 Timothy 4:10-17b • Psalm 145:10-13, 17-18 Luke 10:1-9

Romans 5:12, 15b, 17-19, 20b-21 • Psalm 40:7-10, 17 Luke 12:35-38

Tuesday, October 19 Sts. John de Brébeuf and Isaac Jogues and Companions

To Truly ServeBlessed are those servants whom the master finds vigi-lant on his arrival. Luke 12:37

I recently read the book Five Presidents by Clint Hill, a well-known Secret Service agent. The agents directly protect the president, but they also are on call to serve the president in numerous ways. As the name implies, they are servants. The qualities of being a good servant is the topic of today’s Gospel. Jesus speaks to all of us, his Christian followers, that we are called to be servants—vigilant servants. The title of being a servant is never to be considered as a demeaning position because we have the exalted privilege of serving Jesus, who is also our Lord, Rabbi, Teacher and Master. A servant is supposed to be available to the master, even though we are not briefed in advance about the master’s plans. We may have our own agendas, but sometimes they must be set aside in order to follow a bigger plan with our service motto: Thy will be done.

Speak, Lord; your servant is listening.Fr. James McKarns

Wednesday, October 20 St. Paul of the Cross

Be PreparedYou also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come. Luke 12:40

This passage in Scripture has provoked anxiety in me at various times in my life. I have read it to mean that I must be perfect as quickly as possible and remain that way indefinitely. Yet St. Paul’s epistle to the Romans says, we must not become slaves to sin for it has no power over us. We now live “not under the law but under grace” (6:14). Grace allows us to notice our anxiety without giving it over to despair or becoming a slave to it.

As we sit in faithful presence, awaiting the coming of the Son of Man, we can ask ourselves if we even know what Jesus means when he says “be prepared.” Is that a source of anxiety? Perhaps I know what’s being asked of me, but I feel ill equipped to do it.

What do I need today to be prepared to meet God?Elizabeth Duffy


Romans 6:19-23 • Psalm 1:1-4, 6 Luke 12:49-53

Thursday, October 21

Changing CourseBut what profit did you get then from the things of which you are now ashamed? Romans 6:21

I spotted my former college roommate at Mass, delighted to discover my friend had moved into the area. We hugged and introduced our families, her gre-garious storytelling captivating my children. Hearty laughs followed. Yet I hadn’t anticipated that seeing my roommate could also trigger a flood of those not-so-proud memories. I felt momentarily ashamed—perhaps because I’d now learned to filter life through faith and through my children’s ears. Still, through the Sacrament of Penance, God had long since taken that shame and reconciled me to himself.

Years before that day, our children had understood that we weren’t proud of certain aspects of those college years. We told them: We can’t change where we’ve been, but we can change where we’re going.

Thank you, Lord, that no matter where we’ve been, you invite us to change course for the good.

Kathleen Swartz McQuaigKathleen Swartz McQuaig shares from the heart. As a writer, speaker, teacher, wife and mother, she lives to encourage others.

Friday, October 22 St. John Paul II

Sign ReadersWhy do you not know how to interpret the present time? Luke 12:56

I guess it’s always “the present time,” so Jesus might be as frustrated with us as he was with the crowds of his own day. If the meaning is as obvious as “the earth and the sky,” we should be able to “judge…what is right,” as Jesus urges (verses 6-7). Yet with the incom-ing news cycles on the Internet and social media, the signs may overwhelm us like a flood or a landslide. Fighting our way to the surface amid it all, we may gasp for air!

But let us remember that elsewhere Jesus says our love for each other will be the sign of our Christian faith, so let’s start there. In fact, maybe that’s all we need—love. Forgiving, reconciling, serving—that should be enough for now—just do it, all the time!

Miguel Dulick

Romans 7:18-25a • Psalm 119:66, 68, 76-77, 93-94 Luke 12:54-59


Saturday, October 23 St. John of Capistrano

The Gardener’s AdviceSir, leave it for this year also, and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it; it may bear fruit in the future. If not you can cut it down. Luke 13:8-9

I am no gardener, nor is it work I enjoy. Yet four flow-ering trees on my property demand pruning and fertil-izing—tasks I would prefer to ignore as it takes energy I’d rather give to other pursuits. But it is vital for the trees. In this parable about the fig tree, my impa-tience with a non-fruitful tree would rival the orchard owner’s—”cut it down” (verse 7). But the gardener’s expertise sees more: As long as there is life in it, the tree might be saved. It will take attention and effort.

The parallels to both the just judgment and mercy of God cut to the heart. One day, we will be judged by the fruits of our lives. Yet Jesus, the patient Gardener, lovingly offers mercy that none may perish but be saved. But first, we must cultivate our lives with on-going repentance and bear the good fruit the Gardener intends.

Cultivate my life, Lord, however you see fit.Pat Gohn

October 24 Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

To See His PresenceJesus said to him in reply, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man replied to him, “Master, I want to see.” Mark 10:51

I wear contact lenses, so when I wake up in the morn-ing, everything beyond my hand in front of my face is a blur. But as that new day begins, I’m blind in another way too, even after I pop my contacts in. I have no idea what’s coming. I may have a sense and I may even have a plan. But really, I don’t know. I’m in the dark.

And so, Jesus meets me as I awaken and asks this same question. What do I want him to do for me as I begin my day’s journey in the dark? There’s no better answer than the honest, forthright words of that blind man. Amid the unknown struggle, sadness, joy and just ordinary life that’s ahead, I need to be able to see. To see his presence in all that, in every person. I can’t without his help. So, I ask.

Master, I want to see. Amy Welborn

Jeremiah 31:7-9 • Psalm 126:1-6 Hebrews 5:1-6 • Mark 10:46-52

Romans 8:12-17 • Psalm 68:2, 4, 6-7, 20-21 Luke 13:10-17

Monday, October 25

It Begs the QuestionThe Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God…and joint heirs with Christ, if only we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him. Romans 8:16-17

Who likes to suffer? I don’t! Yet for the past two years, I’ve experienced a painful condition that can’t be cured, only controlled. Often I wail, “Why, Lord?” Then I remember something my spiritual director said. When faced with a tough situation—“It begs the ques-tion…”—leaving me to wonder, “What question?” Gradually I have come to see in every difficult situa-tion the question to ask is, “What does God want me to learn?” This helps me cut through the self-pity to see there really is a reason—maybe it is about patience or understanding or humility, for starters. Regarding my current situation, the answer is “...if only we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.”

Dear One, grant me the grace I need each day to see suf-fering as a means to grow closer to you.

Judy SchuenemanJudy Schueneman is a freelance writer. Her marriage to Joe and being mother to six and grandmother to 12 are her most important roles.

Tuesday, October 26

This Present SufferingBrothers and Sisters: I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us. Romans 8:18

If you have ever been in the eye of the storm, you know that peace can only be found in the center. Which is why, in ordinary times, we must cultivate our center. The winds of chaos and uncertainty swirl all around us, but if we have a core of faith, we can hold steady no matter the weather.

Our temporal suffering is often intensified by resis-tance. In a season of trial, don’t resist the lesson right now, trusting that God has you and is already working all things together for good. Cooperate with the Divine and one day you will be amazed by the glory that is revealed.

If the glory is not here yet, it simply means that the story isn’t finished. If you are mired in the pain, ask God to lift you above your circumstances into the realm of infinite love, possibility and miracles. Choose love again and again and again.

Who do you want to be on the other side of this?Kristin Armstrong



Wednesday, October 27

God Is GoodLet me sing of the Lord, “He has been good to me.”

Psalm 13:6

Sometimes when I am on retreat, I write at the top of a paper, “25 ways God has been good to me this past year.” Then I begin to list some of the ways: good health, a new friend, opportunities for Mass, ample food, orchids in the hallway where I live, time for prayer, the retreatants I’ve come to know, the frequent laughter in my life, regular challenges to my generosi-ty and patience, the variety of birds at the bird feeders, old favorite songs and a few new ones, good books I’ve read, the persistent call to work for greater justice, my love for learning, freedoms I often take for grant-ed, living and working with hope-filled individuals.

Perhaps that’s why this line above from Psalm 13 stood out for me today. The truth is, at the end of some of my letters, I often write these words: “God has been good to Melannie!”

How has God been good to you lately?Sr. Melannie Svoboda, S.N.D.

Add your reply to Sr. Melannie’s thoughtful question in the comments section for this devotion at LivingFaith.com.

Thursday, October 28 Sts. Simon and Jude

Miracles All Around UsThe heavens declare the glory of God,

and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day pours out the word to day,

and night to night imparts knowledge. Psalm 19:2-3

The grandeur and glory of God certainly grabs our attention with the extreme splendors of the natural world. I remember seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time. My first thought was that on the seventh day, God stood back and said, “Wait ‘til they see this!”

We wonder as we view the infinite starry sky on a clear night and the existence of life at the great depths of our oceans, now visible through technology, all bearing witness to God’s handiwork. Yet it’s the everyday gifts that can really impress us: the chang-ing leaves, the work of bees, a baby’s tiny fingers and every breath we take…

Let us stand in wonder and gratitude for all our Creator provides for us in the miracles around us each day.

Deborah A. Meister

Ephesians 2:19-22 • Psalm 19:2-5 Luke 6:12-16

Romans 9:1-5 • Psalm 147:12-15, 19-20 Luke 14:1-6

Friday, October 29

No FiltersMy sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me. John 10:27 (Alleluia verse)

Until recently, I had never been a fan of sheep. In my opinion, sheep were dumb, wimpy and far too dependent. My sibling Courtney, a former shepherd-ess, set me straight and brought me back into the fold! Explaining how very nurturing, intelligent and independent they really are, she said, above all, they recognized her voice.

In today’s liturgy, we are reminded to hear and follow the voice of Jesus. His words are meant to be mulled over, reflected on, even chewed on—like a cud. Our spiritual life is not a sieve in which we filter out any words that nudge us into a more devout, faith-filled living. Hard as it may be, we are to nurture all of Jesus’ words to us—as a ewe mothers her lamb. Today may be a good day to ask ourselves: Do we really follow Jesus in word and in deed?

Jesus, may we truly follow you!Sr. Bridget Haase, O.S.U.

Visit WisdomWonder.com and meet Sr. Bridget.

Saturday, October 30

Gifts That EndureFor the Lord will not cast off his people,

nor abandon his inheritance. Psalm 94:14

The psalmist says, the Lord will never forget or cast aside his people. That’s us. Neither will God abandon his inheritance. Also us. Wait a minute! Really? We are God’s own inheritance? We understand inheritance as the practice of passing on property, titles, privileges and rights to designated heirs. If inheritance is what one receives from another, then what legacy or endow-ment, we may wonder, could the Holy One ever be receiving from us?

How about lives of intimacy with the divine? How about a deepening kinship with all those created by the same hand of a loving God?

Sr. Chris Koellhoffer, I.H.M.

Did you know that each writer has their own author page at LivingFaith.com? Check out the bottom of the homepage or click

on the author’s name listed on the devotion of the day.

Romans 11:1-2a, 11-12, 25-29 • Psalm 94:12-15, 17-18 Luke 14:1, 7-11

Deuteronomy 6:2-6 • Psalm 18:2-4, 47, 51 Hebrews 7:23-28 • Mark 12:28b-34

October 31 Thirty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time

The One True GodMoses spoke to the people… “Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone! Therefore, you shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength. Take to heart these words which I enjoin on you today.” Deuteronomy 6:2, 4-6

This passage contains the basic principle of the whole Mosaic Law; its words are used in the most important Jewish prayer, recited morning and night. The stun-ning revelation it contains is that there is only one God, their God, a God who is not remote and harsh, but one who offers and calls for a total relationship of love.

My friend, whose parents were concentration camp survivors, remembers their saying, “Even there we kept praying to the Lord, our God, in love.”

Dear Lord, our God, with gratitude beyond words that the gift of faith in you has been passed on to me, help me experience and show my love for you today.

Pat Livingston

Pat Livingston is a writer, speaker and retreat director. A wife, mother and grandmother, she lives in Tampa, FL.

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Prayers Blessings&Morning Prayers

Lord of heaven and earth, by your power and for your glory the sun has come up another day. Thank you for the gift of life renewed throughout the universe. I offer this day to you. May all that I do, say and think be for your greater glory. Amen.

Almighty and eternal God, I give you praise for your work of creation bringing a new day into being. I thank you for allowing me to receive another morning refreshed by a good night’s sleep. Keep me mindful through the day of your love and care and strengthen me to live according to your holy will. Amen.

Lord, in this quiet moment of prayer, I can see the day spread out before me, and I know it may be a long while before I think of you again. My days are a whirl-wind of activity, and today promises to be another one of those days. But I will try to keep you in my heart whenever I can, and I ask only that you be with me, even if I am too rushed to be aware of it. I praise and thank you for all your good gifts to me. Amen.

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Prayers Blessings&Evening Prayers

Lord Jesus, I turn to you in thanksgiving at the end of the day. I am grateful for your constant love and support, even when I am not aware of it. For the times I missed opportunities to respond with your love, I am sorry. Please help me do better tomorrow. Amen.

Heavenly Creator, you made the night separate from the day that we may enjoy all things in their time. I go peacefully into this evening and welcome another opportunity to listen for your still voice. I pray your peace will be my company as you prepare me for another day. Amen.

Lord, we are a people who walk in darkness, yet we have seen your light. I pray tonight for those who have not yet come to believe that you alone are the Savior of the world. I pray also for those who will suffer from cold, hunger or illness tonight. May they find relief from their suffering. I offer you the cares of the day and the worries that preoccupy me. I know that, according to your will, you will give me the strength and the courage I need to do what must be done in due time. Amen.

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Prayers Blessings&Prayer for Advent

Spirit of God, you stir our hearts in the Advent season to awaken us from the spiritual doldrums. You urge us to be alert to the coming of the Lord, whether now or at the end of time. You invite us to embrace our longing for the fullness of a life without end. Enlighten our hearts with your holy wisdom so that we might seek and find you, especially in the needs of the poor. Give us the courage and perseverance to look for the Holy One, who offers us more than the world can ever give. Amen.

Prayer for ChristmasLord Jesus, we praise and thank you in this joyful sea-son for the wonder of your birth. As you embraced our humanity, we now humbly acknowledge you as our Creator and Redeemer. May our celebration of your birth lead us to a deeper appreciation of all life, from its earliest stages to its natural end. Help us to cherish the gifts of family, friends and the time to enjoy them. May we grow in gratitude for the presence of your Holy Spirit throughout the year. Amen.

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Acknowledgments

Scripture texts in this work are taken from the New American Bible with Revised New Testament and Revised Psalms © 1991, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Washing-ton, D.C., and are used by permission of the copyright owner. All rights reserved. No part of the New American Bible may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing from the copyright owner. ❑

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PRAYER PROMPTPray the Rosary!

The Church dedicates October to the Rosary in honor of Our Lady of the Rosary, October 7. Living Faith invites you to pray the Rosary with vigor!

Five Reasons to Pray the Rosary1. It’s the second-most powerful prayer in the world. The first, of course, is the Mass. St. Louis de Montfort taught: “When the Holy Rosary is said well, it gives Jesus and Mary more glory and is more meritorious than any other prayer.” St. Pio preached: “Love the Madonna and pray the Rosary, for her Rosary is the weapon against the evils of the world today. All graces given by God pass through the Blessed Mother.” Learn to pray the Rosary: Bit.ly/LearnTheRosary

2. It’s a meditation on the truths of the Gospel. The Mysteries of the Rosary are amazing meditations on the lives of Jesus and Mary as found in Scripture. Through them you will become intimately acquainted with the truths of our faith. Learn the joyful, luminous, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the Rosary: Bit.ly/20Mysteries

3. It’s easy to learn but a lifetime to master its riches. While children can learn the prayers of the Rosary,

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the deepest mystics and greatest saints recommend the graces that can be gained through it. St. Francis de Sales says, “Let us run to Mary, and, as her little children, cast ourselves into her arms with a perfect confidence.” Fifteen promises are connected to the Rosary, via St. Dominic and Blessed Alan de la Roche. Discover them: Bit.ly/15Promises

4. It is a powerful prayer of intercession. Pray for your every concern, great and small. St. Alphonsus Liguori assures us: “Mary is more prompt than all the saints in coming to our aid. She has a great desire to comfort us. The moment she is invoked, she welcomes our prayers and grants us her assistance.” St. Bernard reflects: “In danger, anguish, or doubt, think of Mary and call upon her! Following her, you will never lose your way. Praying to her, you will never sink into de-spair. Contemplating her, you will never go wrong.”

5. It will call you to be a saint. St. John Paul II wrote: “Although the repeated Hail Mary is addressed direct-ly to Mary, it is to Jesus that the act of love is ultimate-ly directed, with her and through her. …The Rosary helps us to be conformed ever more closely to Christ until we attain true holiness.” Finally, St. Thérèse of Lisieux offers this advice: “Do not be afraid of loving the Blessed Virgin too much. You can never love her enough. And Jesus will be very happy, because the Blessed Virgin is His Mother.”

“all things are possible for god.”

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