August 9, 2024, Friday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time-B ST. THERESA BENEDICTA OF THE CROSS, VIRGIN, MARTYR (EDITH STEIN)
Nahum 2:1, 3; 3:1-3, 6-7
Psalm 112
Matthew 16:24-28
“Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” Mt. 16:24
Lord, I am blown away when I read of the heroes who gave up their lives as martyrs rather than deny you. St. Theresa Benedicta was a model of service in life and a courageous martyr in death. I could never have the courage to die like she did. I suppose she would be the first to reassure me that her love and dedication to the poor and her rock steady faith in her suffering came from the grace you gave her in abundance. Paul writes that you make “every grace abundant” for me, giving everything I need for “every good work”. So, as I go about giving my time, talent and material blessings in your service I am confident that you will provide all I need exactly when and where I need it. You are so good to me, dear Jesus, as I follow you wherever you lead. I know the cross is ahead and that each day I must die to selfishness, pride and ego. These things can block my “cheerful” giving. Since you gave yourself totally and completely to death so that I may live, I pray for the grace to trust your grace is sufficient always. St. Theresa pray for us. Amen.