September 3, 2017 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time-A

Jeremiah 20:7-9

Psalm 63

Romans 12:1-2

Matthew 16:21-27

“…whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.”  Mt. 16:25

Lord, I’m here in the abbey church of the Monastery of the Holy Spirit.  The monks will be coming in soon for Evening Prayer.  They are the most literal models of those who have lost their lives for your sake.  It’s hard for me to put myself in their place because I am so attached to the world.  I know not how my conversion will go in the years ahead.  I’m not drawn to become a monk, but I’m sure that I can give my life for your sake and still live in a family.  I can let go of whatever is an obstacle to the holiness I can feel in this place.  It requires firm choices and commitment to stay faithful to the vocations you have called me to.  I have so far to go, my dear Jesus, to accept the cross that you ask me to carry.  Lord, I offer myself to you.  I join my prayers with the timeless prayers of these monks.  Help me to carry my cross each day.  Amen.