Jun 16, 2017 Friday of the 10th Week of Ordinary Time-A

2 Corinthians 4:7-15

Psalm 116

Matthew 5:27-32

We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained… 2 Cor 4:8

Lord, today your main man Paul offers us a pep talk.  He encourages us to persevere despite afflictions, confusion, persecutions and fears.  Because of your cross we aren’t overcome.  The temptations of the world, our own weak flesh, and the assaults and lies of Satan are not as strong as the power of your cross.  Lord, you know when and how I fail to live the life of grace you won for me on Calvary.  You see all my thoughts, hear my words and know my actions that can be obstacles to an experience of your abundant life.  But for you to remove these barriers to your love I must be willing to give them up.  Sometimes I’m not, you know that Lord.  That’s my daily battle.  Lord, help me to keep the cross and my goal of everlasting life with you always before me.  Fill my heart with passion for you and my mind with pure thoughts.  My Lord and my God, thank you for the pep talk and the reminder that you, the saints, angels, and my dear Mother Mary are always cheering me on.     Amen.