https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/022423.cfm
Away from the Lord? Not Really
After my adoration every morning, I end with the benediction and the blessing. Some of the people I bless with Jesus are people who no longer practice their Catholic Faith and are not personally handing the Faith on to their children. There is no judgment here, only mercy. I pray the Lord touches them and lets them know how near He is to them.
They came to mind when I prayed over the gospel today. Jesus tells the Pharisees that his disciples do not fast while He is with them. But they will fast when He is taken away. So, I realized He is never taken away from our friends who don’t meet with us on Sunday. Perhaps they no longer perceive His Real Presence in the Blessed Sacrament and other Sacraments, or they have another reason.
Indeed, they still believe. Their prayers, works of mercy, and other Catholic practices are in their life. But do they see (believe) Jesus in His Body and Blood on the altar at Mass? Of course, these are only assumptions on my part. I am so happy when I can listen to their story. It is good to understand their relationship with the Lord and the Church and love them there.
Gospel Challenge:
So, I fast for them and invite you to fast for someone who chose not to receive Jesus in Word and Sacrament on the Lord’s Day. When we fast, we give something of ourselves to the Lord to benefit the person for whom we fast. Jesus knows the day and hour when He will reveal Himself to them and let them know He never left them.
Love Your Neighbor:
Please join me in praying for all baptized Catholics to be faithful to Jesus in the Holy Mass every weekend. Hail Mary, full of grace…
Mother Mary, “I am yours now and forever. Through you and with you, I always want to belong completely to Jesus.” The Surrender Novena – InHeartland. https://inheartland.com/pages/the-surrender-novena
Peace be with you.
Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.
pastor@bscchurch.com
