January 24, 2022, Monday of the 3rd Week in Ordinary Time-C ST FRANCIS de SALES, BISHOP, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH

2 Samuel 5:1-7, 10

Psalm 89

Mark 3:22-30

The Lord of hosts was with him.  2 Sam. 5:10

“And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand.”  Mk. 3:25

Lord, how wrong people can be about you. How can someone be so confused to believe you were in cooperation with Satan? The demons you drove out knew who you were. I guess even today some would say you are responsible for their suffering, or you are indifferent to their struggles in life. You defeated the devil by giving yourself up to death on the cross. So how can you be his partner? Lord, you are so good, forgiving, merciful and loving. I can depend on you fulfilling your promises and delivering the grace, strength and help I need to overcome temptation. I can resist the lies of Satan by turning to you for help.  The sacraments of your church provide me with the means to overcome evil impulses and through them I can obtain forgiveness for my sins. I turn to you today, dear Jesus, and entrust myself to your care. Be with me as you were with King David. I surrender to you all my weaknesses and rely on you for the strength to weather the trials of life. St. Francis de Sales, pray for me.  Amen.