https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121423.cfm
VIOLENCE – IS THERE ANOTHER WAY?
Wouldn’t you say that most people in America wonder when the violence will end? Or, at least, slow down a bit. The news is full of it. Jesus even says, “From the days of John the Baptist until now, the Kingdom of heaven suffers violence.” (Matthew 11:12)
That violence came home when a friend murdered a young lady a while back. Her co-workers were like family. I know her Mom, and we have spoken several times since her daughter’s death.
Her Mom is a woman of great faith and lives every moment with the Lord. There was no anger in her voice for the man who committed this horrible crime. It took me back to when she said, “We have to pray for mercy and forgiveness.” I ask, and maybe you do too, “How can that be?” How can she open her heart to this man so soon after losing her daughter through violence?
The answer is simple. There is no violence in this Mom’s heart or her mind, and she lives so near to the heart of Jesus that He is breathing in her His words on the Cross, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
Spend a few moments with the Lord on this line; Jesus once said, “The Kingdom of God is within you.” We all have thoughts, words, and actions that cause the Kingdom of God within us to suffer violence. In those moments, I ask the Lord Jesus, “Pray the words from your Cross in my heart.” “Father, forgive me. I know not what I do.”
Gospel Challenge:
The violence in society ends in each one’s heart through mercy. Pray as often as needed, “Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner.” He will.
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.
Peace be with you.
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
