June 11, 2018 Monday of the 10th Week in Ordinary Time—B ST. BARNABUS, APOSTLE
Acts of the Apostles 11:21-26; 13:1-3
Psalm 98
Matthew 11:7-13
When Barnabus arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced… Acts 11:23
Lord, what does your grace look like? What makes it stand out or become visible? Barnabus saw in Antioch Jews and Greeks praying and fasting together. He saw men and women working together for the good of the group. He witnessed a community coming together as one to contribute a monetary relief gift for those suffering from a drought in Israel. Your grace is a powerful sign of your love for your people. It is the invisible juice that transforms us from enemies to allies. It is given freely out of love with a purpose. Lord, you don’t give your grace as payment for work done or as a reward for good behavior. When I make mistakes grace is not docked. I receive it regardless of human efforts or worthiness. In your kingdom there is such a thing as “free lunch”. What price could I pay for the grace of the Eucharist? I’m sorry for all the times I have ignored or rejected your gift. I thank you, Lord, for providing exactly what I need at every stage of my life. Your timing is perfect. May I be alert today for how you want to grace me. Amen.