September 23, 2021 Thursday of the 25th Week in Ordinary Time-B ST. PIUS OF PIETRELCINA (PADRE PIO)

Haggai 1:1-8

Psalm 149

Luke 9:7-9

“Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” Lk. 9:9

Lord, King Herod was anxious to see you because he had heard the stories of your miracles and your teaching. He likely wanted to size you up to see how much of a threat you were to his throne. His sin blinded him from knowing who you really were. He couldn’t see beyond his own self-interest. It’s hard for any of us to believe when we are focused only on ourselves. It’s amazing to think that you loved Herod despite his role in John the Baptist’s death and eventually your crucifixion. Lord, I can at times have doubts about how you are present in my life. Questions can come up about what direction you want me to go. I can become unsure when I can’t explain suffering in my family and in the world. I will never be satisfied with the answers until I come before you in eternity. Until then, my Lord and my God, I trust in you. When all human ideas and explanations fall short, knowing you are good, kind, forgiving, wise and merciful is all I need. Help me to trust you always even when I have questions.  St. Padre Pio pray for us.  Amen.