February 12, 2018 Monday in the 6th Week in Ordinary Time-B

James 1:1-11

Psalm 119

Mark 8:11-13

 …ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and he will be given it.  James 1:5

Lord, there are hundreds of titles in the self-help section of our book stores.  They contain an endless amount of “how-to” advice on everything from A to Z.  These books teach us how to “DIY”, do it yourself.  James gives us the bottom line of advice on self-improvement.   He advises us to come to you for all we need.   He begins today with perseverance being the fruit of suffering.  Wisdom is granted to all who ask for it.  We are encouraged to assume a humble attitude regardless of our wealth.  Faith is the foundation of all our prayers and petitions.  Lord, when I ask you for anything in faith I’m really saying that it’s OK if you don’t respond with exactly what I ask for and when I ask for it.  When I petition you in faith I trust that you know best and will answer in your perfect time and in your perfect way.  You always grant my prayers in the ways that will bring me closer to you and to my heavenly Father.  Lord, with your abundant grace, I thank you that I don’t have to do it all myself.  Amen