Pray As You Go - Daily Prayer

Friday 22 August 2025

Today is Friday the 22nd of August, the feast of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, in the 20th week of Ordinary Time. Paul Zach, Jessica Fox and IamSon sing, ‘Lead Me, Guide Me’. I am weak, and I need your strength and power To help me o’er my weakest hour; Help me through the darkness Thy face to see, Lead me, O Lord, lead me. Lead me, guide me along the way; Lord, if You lead me, I will not stray; Lord, let me walk each day with Thee. Lead me, O Lord, lead me. Today’s reading is from the Book of Ruth. Ruth 1:1,3-6,14b-16,22 In the days when the judges ruled, there was a famine in the land, and a certain man of Bethlehem in Judah went to live in the country of Moab, he and his wife and two sons. But Elimelech, the husband of Naomi, died, and she was left with her two sons. These took Moabite wives; the name of one was Orpah and the name of the other Ruth. When they had lived there for about ten years, both Mahlon and Chilion also died, so that the woman was left without her two sons or her husband. Then she started to return with her daughters-in-law from the country of Moab, for she had heard in the country of Moab that the Lord had had consideration for his people and given them food. Then they wept aloud again. Orpah kissed her mother-in-law, but Ruth clung to her. So she said, ‘See, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods; return after your sister-in-law.’ But Ruth said, ‘Do not press me to leave you or to turn back from following you! Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God. So Naomi returned together with Ruth the Moabite, her daughter-in-law, who came back with her from the country of Moab. They came to Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest. At the beginning of this story an Israelite woman named Naomi has been widowed. Her two sons have also died, leaving their foreign wives as widows as well. What are these three grieving women to do? Take a moment to get a feel for the situation that they find themselves in. One of the women, Orpah, decides to return to her father’s family. That wasn’t unexpected in the culture of the time. But, surprisingly, the other one, Ruth, leaves her own home and family behind to travel with her mother-in-law back to Israel. She explains, very simply “Your people shall be my people, and your God my God”. What do you make of Ruth’s actions? In coming back to Bethlehem in this way, Ruth will become one of the ancestors of Jesus. What does knowing this add to your appreciation of the story? In hearing the passage again, listen out for Ruth’s words. Are they the kind of thing that you might find yourself wanting to say to Jesus? Ruth 1:1,3-6,14b-16,22 In the days when the judges ruled, there was a famine in the land, and a certain man of Bethlehem in Judah went to live in the country of Moab, he and his wife and two sons. But Elimelech, the husband of Naomi, died, and she was left with her two sons. These took Moabite wives; the name of one was Orpah and the name of the other Ruth. When they had lived there for about ten years, both Mahlon and Chilion also died, so that the woman was left without her two sons or her husband. Then she started to return with her daughters-in-law from the country of Moab, for she had heard in the country of Moab that the Lord had had consideration for his people and given them food. Then they wept aloud again. Orpah kissed her mother-in-law, but Ruth clung to her. So she said, ‘See, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods; return after your sister-in-law.’ But Ruth said, ‘Do not press me to leave you or to turn back from following you! Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God. So Naomi returned together with Ruth the Moabite, her daughter-in-law, who came back with her from the country of Moab. They came to Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest. You might, as this prayer draws to a close, want to use Ruth’s words here to speak with Jesus. Or perhaps the story prompts something else that you want to say to him. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 21 August 2025

Today is Thursday the 21st of August, the feast of Saint Pius X, in the 20th week of Ordinary Time. The Kyiv Chamber Choir sing In Thy Kingdom from One Thousand Years Of Ukrainian Sacred Music. (Lyrics currently unavailable) Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 22:1-14 Once more Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying: ‘The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding banquet for his son. He sent his slaves to call those who had been invited to the wedding banquet, but they would not come. Again he sent other slaves, saying, “Tell those who have been invited: Look, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready; come to the wedding banquet.” But they made light of it and went away, one to his farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his slaves, maltreated them, and killed them. The king was enraged. He sent his troops, destroyed those murderers, and burned their city. Then he said to his slaves, “The wedding is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore into the main streets, and invite everyone you find to the wedding banquet.” Those slaves went out into the streets and gathered all whom they found, both good and bad; so the wedding hall was filled with guests. ‘But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing a wedding robe, and he said to him, “Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding robe?” And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, “Bind him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” For many are called, but few are chosen.’ You’ve been invited to a party. The day comes. You’re tired, or busy, or simply in a bad mood. You’re tempted to send an excuse and not go to the party. How far can you identify with what’s happening at the start of this passage? Now think of yourself as the host, the one throwing the party. You’ve put a lot into the preparations. But few of your guests turn up.  How do you find yourself thinking and feeling about them? Now look at those brought in to replace the invited guests. You’re simply walking along the street, minding your own business, when you get ushered into this elaborate feast. It’s filled with all sorts of different people. What’s it like to be there? Jesus starts this parable by saying “This is what the kingdom of heaven is like”. As you listen again, notice what the story tells you about God’s kingdom. Matthew 22:1-14 Once more Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying: ‘The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding banquet for his son. He sent his slaves to call those who had been invited to the wedding banquet, but they would not come. Again he sent other slaves, saying, “Tell those who have been invited: Look, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready; come to the wedding banquet.” But they made light of it and went away, one to his farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his slaves, maltreated them, and killed them. The king was enraged. He sent his troops, destroyed those murderers, and burned their city. Then he said to his slaves, “The wedding is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore into the main streets, and invite everyone you find to the wedding banquet.” Those slaves went out into the streets and gathered all whom they found, both good and bad; so the wedding hall was filled with guests. ‘But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing a wedding robe, and he said to him, “Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding robe?” And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, “Bind him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” For many are called, but few are chosen.’ Talk, finally, with God about what you’ve noticed here. You might want to consider with God the violent elements of the parable – the murderous guests, the enraged king, the speechless man without a wedding robe. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 20 August 2025

Today is Wednesday the 20th of August, the feast of Saint Bernard, in the 20th week of Ordinary Time. The monks of the Abbey of Keur Moussa sing: Le Seigneur est Roi: “The Lord is King, with majesty enrobed; the Lord has robed himself with might; he has girded himself with power.” As I listen, can I imagine God like this, as King of the world? And the people around me, the whole world around me, as God’s kingdom? Today’s reading is from the Book of Judges. Judges 9:6-15 Then all the lords of Shechem and all Beth-millo came together, and they went and made Abimelech king, by the oak of the pillar at Shechem. When it was told to Jotham, he went and stood on the top of Mount Gerizim, and cried aloud and said to them, ‘Listen to me, you lords of Shechem, so that God may listen to you. The trees once went out to anoint a king over themselves. So they said to the olive tree, “Reign over us.” The olive tree answered them, “Shall I stop producing my rich oil by which gods and mortals are honoured, and go to sway over the trees?” Then the trees said to the fig tree, “You come and reign over us.” But the fig tree answered them, “Shall I stop producing my sweetness and my delicious fruit, and go to sway over the trees?” Then the trees said to the vine, “You come and reign over us.” But the vine said to them, “Shall I stop producing my wine that cheers gods and mortals, and go to sway over the trees?” So all the trees said to the bramble, “You come and reign over us.” And the bramble said to the trees, “If in good faith you are anointing me king over you, then come and take refuge in my shade; but if not, let fire come out of the bramble and devour the cedars of Lebanon.” Today’s reading is a fable about kingship. If you knew nothing else about what God’s people felt at this time about having a king, what might this tell you? Consider, in this context, the political leaders of your own state or nation. What is best about them? What do you think of as their major weaknesses? The response of the olive tree, the fig tree, and the vine, to the invitation to become king of the trees, is simple. It can be summed up as “We’ve got better things to do with our time.” How far do you see this as a valid answer to a call to a leadership role? As the passage is read again, see what you make of the bramble’s response to the invitation of the other trees. Judges 9:6-15 Then all the lords of Shechem and all Beth-millo came together, and they went and made Abimelech king, by the oak of the pillar at Shechem. When it was told to Jotham, he went and stood on the top of Mount Gerizim, and cried aloud and said to them, ‘Listen to me, you lords of Shechem, so that God may listen to you. The trees once went out to anoint a king over themselves. So they said to the olive tree, “Reign over us.” The olive tree answered them, “Shall I stop producing my rich oil by which gods and mortals are honoured, and go to sway over the trees?” Then the trees said to the fig tree, “You come and reign over us.” But the fig tree answered them, “Shall I stop producing my sweetness and my delicious fruit, and go to sway over the trees?” Then the trees said to the vine, “You come and reign over us.” But the vine said to them, “Shall I stop producing my wine that cheers gods and mortals, and go to sway over the trees?” So all the trees said to the bramble, “You come and reign over us.” And the bramble said to the trees, “If in good faith you are anointing me king over you, then come and take refuge in my shade; but if not, let fire come out of the bramble and devour the cedars of Lebanon.” You might like, in these final moments of prayer, to pray for politicians and others in positions of leadership... Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 19 August 2025

Today is Tuesday the 19th of August, in the 20th week of Ordinary Time. Jon Guerra sings, ‘The Kingdom of God’. How does this song speak to you today? Oh that I could see your face How I’m longing for that day Brighter sun of holy grace Make my heart a holy place Blessed are the poor who have nothing to own Blessed are the mourners who are crying alone Blessed are the guilty who have nowhere to go For their hearts have a road to the kingdom of God And their souls are the songs of the kingdom of God And they will find a refuge for theirs is the kingdom of God Beauty shining from your face Always longed to see this place Is there somewhere I can stay? Even just a couple days? Blessed are the poor who have nothing to own Blessed are the mourners who are crying alone Blessed are the guilty who have nowhere to go For their hearts have a road to the kingdom of God And their souls are the songs of the kingdom of God And they will find a refuge for theirs is the kingdom of God The Lord is our shepherd, we shall not want In valley or pasture, we shall not want Our cup runneth over and over For now and forever For now and forever Blessed are the poor who have nothing to own Blessed are the mourners who are crying alone Blessed are the guilty who have nowhere to go For their hearts have a road to the kingdom of God And their souls are the songs of the kingdom of God And they will find a refuge for theirs is the kingdom of God Oh that I could see your face How I’m longing for that day Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 19:23-30 Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Truly I tell you, it will be hard for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.’ When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astounded and said, ‘Then who can be saved?’ But Jesus looked at them and said, ‘For mortals it is impossible, but for God all things are possible.’ Then Peter said in reply, ‘Look, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?’ Jesus said to them, ‘Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man is seated on the throne of his glory, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold, and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first. Doesn’t wealth make life easier? Not having to worry about life’s financial burdens. Yet Jesus suggests here that there is a problematic side to all this. Why is that, do you think? The approach Jesus takes surprises those closest to him. They had assumed that wealth was a sign of God’s favour. Is there anything in you that shares their outlook? Peter, tactless as ever, blurts out “We’ve left everything – what’s in it for us?” If you didn’t know the rest of the story, how might you have expected Jesus to answer him here? As the passage is read again, notice particularly how Jesus does in fact answer Peter. Matthew 19:23-30 Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Truly I tell you, it will be hard for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.’ When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astounded and said, ‘Then who can be saved?’ But Jesus looked at them and said, ‘For mortals it is impossible, but for God all things are possible.’ Then Peter said in reply, ‘Look, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?’ Jesus said to them, ‘Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man is seated on the throne of his glory, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold, and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first. Speak for a moment or two to Jesus about your own wealth, or lack of it, and how that influences your relationship with him. Notice any response he gives you. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 18 August 2025

Today is Monday the 18th of August, the feast of Saint Alberto Hurtado Cruchaga SJ, in the 20th week of Ordinary Time. Bifrost Arts sings, ‘O God, Will You Restore Us?’ O God, will You restore us And grant us Your salvation? O God, will You restore us And grant us Your salvation? I will hear what God proclaims The Lord our God proclaims peace Kindness and truth shall meet Justice and peace shall kiss O God, will You restore us And grant us Your salvation? Here is the fast that I choose To loosen the bonds of the oppressed and break their chains Let righteousness and justice go out before you Then You will call out and I will hear O God, will You restore us And grant us Your salvation? Near indeed is His salvation to those who call on Him He will incline His ear and hear their prayers Truth shall spring out of the earth And justice will rain down from heaven O God, will You restore us And grant us Your salvation? The Lord will guide you on a righteous path His vindication will shine down forth as the dawn Your people will be called repairers of broken walls Making straight the path to proclaim His reign O God, will You restore us And grant us Your salvation? O God, will You restore us? Please grant us Your salvation Today’s reading is from the Book of Judges. Judges 2:11-19 Then the Israelites did what was evil in the sight of the Lord and worshipped the Baals; and they abandoned the Lord, the God of their ancestors, who had brought them out of the land of Egypt; they followed other gods, from among the gods of the peoples who were all around them, and bowed down to them; and they provoked the Lord to anger. They abandoned the Lord, and worshipped Baal and the Astartes. So the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and he gave them over to plunderers who plundered them, and he sold them into the power of their enemies all around, so that they could no longer withstand their enemies. Whenever they marched out, the hand of the Lord was against them to bring misfortune, as the Lord had warned them and sworn to them; and they were in great distress. Then the Lord raised up judges, who delivered them out of the power of those who plundered them. Yet they did not listen even to their judges; for they lusted after other gods and bowed down to them. They soon turned aside from the way in which their ancestors had walked, who had obeyed the commandments of the Lord; they did not follow their example. Whenever the Lord raised up judges for them, the Lord was with the judge, and he delivered them from the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge; for the Lord would be moved to pity by their groaning because of those who persecuted and oppressed them. But whenever the judge died, they would relapse and behave worse than their ancestors, following other gods, worshipping them and bowing down to them. They would not drop any of their practices or their stubborn ways. We meet the People of God here at a low point of their history. They are being repeatedly attacked and defeated by their enemies. At the same time, they are continually tempted to worship other gods than the one true God. What is your first impression of this sad story? What are the false gods you are sometimes tempted to worship? Not Baal and Astarte, but wealth, fame, comfort, safety. How might these get in the way of your own desire to respond to the one true God in your own life? God, though, never gives up on God’s people. God sends them good leaders, judges, who are able for a while to restore the people’s fortunes. When and where have you encountered God’s help in the middle of your own troubled times? Notice, as the second half of the passage is read again, how it might apply to your own life and circumstances. Then the Lord raised up judges, who delivered them out of the power of those who plundered them. Yet they did not listen even to their judges; for they lusted after other gods and bowed down to them. They soon turned aside from the way in which their ancestors had walked, who had obeyed the commandments of the Lord; they did not follow their example. Whenever the Lord raised up judges for them, the Lord was with the judge, and he delivered them from the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge; for the Lord would be moved to pity by their groaning because of those who persecuted and oppressed them. But whenever the judge died, they would relapse and behave worse than their ancestors, following other gods, worshipping them and bowing down to them. They would not drop any of their practices or their stubborn ways. Speak, finally, to the God who wants to help you draw near to him even, or perhaps especially, in challenging times. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 17 August 2025

Today is Sunday the 17th of August, beginning the 20th week of Ordinary Time. Good Shepherd Collective with Liz Vice and Dee Wilson sing, ‘All Shall Be Well’. Thank you for the sun Thank you for the moon Thank you for the stars above And the darkness too Bless you for your peace Bless you for your grace Bless you for your perfect love And your perfect ways And all shall be well All shall be well All manner of things shall be well Oh, use me as you will Remove my selfish pride Create in me a servant heart To bless your holy bride And when my work is done And the seeds are sown Please receive my spirit, Lord Welcome me home And all shall be well All shall be well All manner of things shall be well Today’s reading is from Letter to the Hebrews. Hebrews 12:1-4 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such hostility against himself from sinners, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart. In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. Let's take time to experience this scene imaginatively. Imagine yourself running a race on a path lined by saints, ancestors, mentors, all those who have known hardship, persevered in faith, and now cheer you on. Can you see their faces? Hear their encouragement? Who has been part of this “cloud of witnesses” in your own life? What might they say to you today, as you make your way through the complexities of life? “Let us lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely… What “weights” do you carry now? Perhaps, fear, resentment, self-doubt, busyness? What might God be inviting you to lay down? As we listen to the passage again, consider what does the Lord say to you in your struggles, your hopes, your silence? Hebrews 12:1-4 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such hostility against himself from sinners, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart. In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. “Looking to Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith…” Ask for the grace to let go, if only for today. Speak to Jesus as one friend speaks to another. Share with him what weighs on you, what gives you joy, what you need strength for. Listen for His reply... Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Saturday 16 August 2025

Welcome to the Saturday Examen. This week we have witnessed moments of encounter, hope and trust. We trust that the Lord has walked with us through every moment of this week. Lord, help us to enter this time of reflection with honesty and peace, knowing You hold us in love. Let your heart recall the blessings of the week. Where did you feel supported, cared for, or at peace? What moments reminded you of God’s faithfulness? Thank You, Lord, for the quiet ways You provided — through others, through small victories, or even in stillness. Where were the times when you felt anxious, or in doubt? Were there times that you resisted letting go? What was behind that fear or hesitation? Speak openly to God about moments you struggled. What do you anticipate with hope? Ask the Lord for the grace you will need this week. What will you need to walk with an open heart, surrendering each step to the Lord’s guidance? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Friday 15 August 2025

Today is Friday the 15th of August, the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, in the 19th week of Ordinary Time. Juliano Ravanello sings the Magnificat, the song of Mary: “My soul glorifies the Lord. My Spirit rejoices in God my Saviour. He looks on his servant in her lowliness. Henceforth, all ages will call me blessed.” As I listen, can I sense the Lord looking on me in my lowliness, and can I rejoice in him and in all that he does for me? (Lyrics currently unavailable) Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke. Luke 1:39-56 In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leapt in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leapt for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.’ And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’ And Mary remained with her for about three months and then returned to her home. Today we celebrate the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Mary’s Assumption celebrates her being taken, body and soul, into heaven — a sign of hope for all. The scripture for today reminds us of her lifelong faith, humility, and openness to God. For some elements of scripture, it can be helpful to try to experience the scene imaginatively. This beautiful encounter holds so much that using the imagination can reveal something ‘more’. You are walking with Mary as she sets out to visit Elizabeth. Feel the rough path underfoot, hear the wind and birds in the air. You walk beside her, a young woman full of grace. It is a long journey, one of many for Mary, and suggests her determination, her commitment to her mission. What feelings arise for you at the beginning of this journey? Arriving, at last, at the house of Zechariah and the moment where Mary greets Elizabeth, and the child in Elizabeth’s womb leaps. “Blessed are you among women…” Take a moment to share in this encounter. What is your response? Witness to Mary’s response - not filled with pride, but with a profound humility and a song—the Magnificat. As you hear the passage again, let her voice echo in your mind. Perhaps you can sense God's promise alive in your life? And Mary said, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’ And Mary remained with her for about three months and then returned to her home. ‘My spirit rejoices in God my Saviour.’ In this time of prayer, sing from your own soul your response to Mary’s song. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 14 August 2025

Today is Thursday the 14th of August, the feast of Saint Maximilian Kolbe, in the 19th week of Ordinary Time. Julia Shaw with We Are Bread & Wine sings ‘God Is With Us’. From dust we are and shall return Naked we came and shall return Fullness of breath in our lungs Was your first gift to us So breathe again and we will live closer to love Marvellous light flashed in your eyes as you hung the sky Your world teemed with life branches and vine chaos refined No eye has seen, no ear has heard How you make beauty with time Teach us your ways Teach us to die So we may rise Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah God is with us Today’s reading is from the Book of Joshua. Joshua 3:7-10a,11,13-17 The Lord said to Joshua, ‘This day I will begin to exalt you in the sight of all Israel, so that they may know that I will be with you as I was with Moses. You are the one who shall command the priests who bear the ark of the covenant, “When you come to the edge of the waters of the Jordan, you shall stand still in the Jordan.” ’ Joshua then said to the Israelites, ‘Draw near and hear the words of the Lord your God.’ Joshua said, ‘By this you shall know that among you is the living God who without fail will drive out from before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites, and Jebusites: the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth is going to pass before you into the Jordan. When the soles of the feet of the priests who bear the ark of the Lord, the Lord of all the earth, rest in the waters of the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan flowing from above shall be cut off; they shall stand in a single heap.’ When the people set out from their tents to cross over the Jordan, the priests bearing the ark of the covenant were in front of the people. Now the Jordan overflows all its banks throughout the time of harvest. So when those who bore the ark had come to the Jordan, and the feet of the priests bearing the ark were dipped in the edge of the water, the waters flowing from above stood still, rising up in a single heap far off at Adam, the city that is beside Zarethan, while those flowing towards the sea of the Arabah, the Dead Sea, were wholly cut off. Then the people crossed over opposite Jericho. While all Israel were crossing over on dry ground, the priests who bore the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, until the entire nation finished crossing over the Jordan. Today is the feast day of Maximilian Kolbe. During WWII, Kolbe trusted God’s promises and gave his life for a fellow prisoner, becoming a sign of Christ’s love in the valley of death. His faith may be an invitation to step forward in your own life, with trust that God is already parting the waters ahead of you. Perhaps, place yourself on the banks of the Jordan River. Feel the heat of the day, see the tired crowd around you—tired, dusty, but hopeful. The priests lift the Ark of the Covenant and step toward the water. Watch as the river stops—the waters rise and the ground dries beneath their feet. What is your response? "I will begin to exalt you in the sight of all Israel…" God exalts Joshua to lead His people, reflect on a time when you felt entrusted with influence or responsibility? How did you respond? "As soon as the priests’ feet touched the edge…" The miracle begins only as they step into the water. Only faith can move what seems impossible. Is there somewhere that God calling you to—before you can imagine the outcome? As you listen again, reflect on how God makes a way through what seems impassable. Ask for the grace to walk faithfully, trusting in God. Joshua said, ‘By this you shall know that among you is the living God who without fail will drive out from before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites, and Jebusites: the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth is going to pass before you into the Jordan. When the soles of the feet of the priests who bear the ark of the Lord, the Lord of all the earth, rest in the waters of the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan flowing from above shall be cut off; they shall stand in a single heap.’ When the people set out from their tents to cross over the Jordan, the priests bearing the ark of the covenant were in front of the people. Now the Jordan overflows all its banks throughout the time of harvest. So when those who bore the ark had come to the Jordan, and the feet of the priests bearing the ark were dipped in the edge of the water, the waters flowing from above stood still, rising up in a single heap far off at Adam, the city that is beside Zarethan, while those flowing towards the sea of the Arabah, the Dead Sea, were wholly cut off. Then the people crossed over opposite Jericho. While all Israel were crossing over on dry ground, the priests who bore the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, until the entire nation finished crossing over the Jordan. Sharing a time of prayer with Jesus, one who also stepped into chaos, sharing your own words, thoughts and feelings. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 13 August 2025

Today is Wednesday the 13th of August, in the 19th week of Ordinary Time. The monks of the Abbey of Keur Moussa sing the Benedictus: Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, He has visited his people and redeemed them. As you enter into prayer today, rest for a moment in the confidence that - whatever may seem wrong with the world, or with our lives - God’s love redeems it all: ‘The Lord has visited his people and redeemed them’. (Lyrics currently unavailable) Today’s reading is from the Book of Deuteronomy. Deuteronomy 34:1-12 Then Moses went up from the plains of Moab to Mount Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, which is opposite Jericho, and the Lord showed him the whole land: Gilead as far as Dan, all Naphtali, the land of Ephraim and Manasseh, all the land of Judah as far as the Western Sea, the Negeb, and the Plain—that is, the valley of Jericho, the city of palm trees—as far as Zoar. The Lord said to him, ‘This is the land of which I swore to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, saying, “I will give it to your descendants”; I have let you see it with your eyes, but you shall not cross over there.’ Then Moses, the servant of the Lord, died there in the land of Moab, at the Lord’s command. He was buried in a valley in the land of Moab, opposite Beth-peor, but no one knows his burial place to this day. Moses was one hundred and twenty years old when he died; his sight was unimpaired and his vigour had not abated. The Israelites wept for Moses in the plains of Moab for thirty days; then the period of mourning for Moses was ended. Joshua son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom, because Moses had laid his hands on him; and the Israelites obeyed him, doing as the Lord had commanded Moses. Never since has there arisen a prophet in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face. He was unequalled for all the signs and wonders that the Lord sent him to perform in the land of Egypt, against Pharaoh and all his servants and his entire land, and for all the mighty deeds and all the terrifying displays of power that Moses performed in the sight of all Israel. This passage brings us to the final moments of Moses’ life. After leading the Israelites for decades through trials, rebellion, and wilderness, God shows Moses the Promised Land—but he is told he will not enter it. He dies on the mountain, and leadership passes to Joshua, who is filled with the spirit. Moses sees the fulfilment of God's promise—but not for himself. Consider times when you have felt you have been part of a mission whose fruit you may never see? Ask the Spirit to guide your heart to identify a need for outcomes, recognition, or control. Moses was not only a prophet but also a leader. His death suggesting that leadership in the spiritual life is also stewardship. Moses steps aside and blesses the future. Reflect – where are you being invited to let go, trust others, or make space? As we listen to the passage again, consider where, in your relationship with the Lord, have you been aware of God’s faithfulness? The Lord said to him, ‘This is the land of which I swore to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, saying, “I will give it to your descendants”; I have let you see it with your eyes, but you shall not cross over there.’ Then Moses, the servant of the Lord, died there in the land of Moab, at the Lord’s command. He was buried in a valley in the land of Moab, opposite Beth-peor, but no one knows his burial place to this day. Moses was one hundred and twenty years old when he died; his sight was unimpaired and his vigour had not abated. The Israelites wept for Moses in the plains of Moab for thirty days; then the period of mourning for Moses was ended. Joshua son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom, because Moses had laid his hands on him; and the Israelites obeyed him, doing as the Lord had commanded Moses. Never since has there arisen a prophet in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face. He was unequalled for all the signs and wonders that the Lord sent him to perform in the land of Egypt, against Pharaoh and all his servants and his entire land, and for all the mighty deeds and all the terrifying displays of power that Moses performed in the sight of all Israel. In a time of prayer rest in God’s presence, reflecting back on your journey together. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 12 August 2025

Today is Tuesday the 12th of August, in the 19th week of Ordinary Time. Paul Zach sings, ‘Nothing to Fear'. When you pass through the waters I will be with you And the depths of the river shall not overwhelm When you walk through the fire you will not be burned I am the Lord, I am the Lord And there is nothing to fear, nothing to fear There is nothing to fear, nothing to fear For I am with you always In the depths of your sorrow I wept beside you When you walked through the shadow I drew you near And yesterday, today, tomorrow, always the same I am the Lord, I am the Lord And there is nothing to fear, nothing to fear There is nothing to fear, nothing to fear For I am with you always And there is nothing to fear, nothing to fear There is nothing to fear, nothing to fear For I am with you always What can separate you from My perfect Love What can separate you from My perfect Love What can separate you from My perfect Love Do not fear Do not fear Do not fear Today’s reading is from the Book of Deuteronomy. Deuteronomy 31:1-8 When Moses had finished speaking all these words to all Israel, he said to them: ‘I am now a hundred and twenty years old. I am no longer able to get about, and the Lord has told me, “You shall not cross over this Jordan.” The Lord your God himself will cross over before you. He will destroy these nations before you, and you shall dispossess them. Joshua also will cross over before you, as the Lord promised. The Lord will do to them as he did to Sihon and Og, the kings of the Amorites, and to their land, when he destroyed them. The Lord will give them over to you and you shall deal with them in full accord with the command that I have given to you. Be strong and bold; have no fear or dread of them, because it is the Lord your God who goes with you; he will not fail you or forsake you.’ Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel: ‘Be strong and bold, for you are the one who will go with this people into the land that the Lord has sworn to their ancestors to give them; and you will put them in possession of it. It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.’ In this passage, Moses is handing over leadership to Joshua as Israel prepares to enter the Promised Land. Moses reminds the people—and Joshua—that God will go before them. Though Moses himself will not cross over with them, the message is one of reassurance and courage. What is your immediate response to this? Imagine yourself in the crowd, listening to Moses speak. This elderly leader stands before you, his face lined with wisdom and age. Feel the uncertainty of change, the loss of a leader, and the hope for what lies ahead. “Be strong and courageous… it is the Lord who goes before you.” What feelings stirs in your heart? What is your response to knowing that God goes ahead of you in times of transition or fear? Where in your life do you need to hear, "Do not be afraid or dismayed"? Perhaps you have found God in the tension between letting go and moving forward. As you listen to the passage again, take time to reflect on how it would it feel to step forward knowing God has already gone before you... Deuteronomy 31:1-8 When Moses had finished speaking all these words to all Israel, he said to them: ‘I am now a hundred and twenty years old. I am no longer able to get about, and the Lord has told me, “You shall not cross over this Jordan.” The Lord your God himself will cross over before you. He will destroy these nations before you, and you shall dispossess them. Joshua also will cross over before you, as the Lord promised. The Lord will do to them as he did to Sihon and Og, the kings of the Amorites, and to their land, when he destroyed them. The Lord will give them over to you and you shall deal with them in full accord with the command that I have given to you. Be strong and bold; have no fear or dread of them, because it is the Lord your God who goes with you; he will not fail you or forsake you.’ Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel: ‘Be strong and bold, for you are the one who will go with this people into the land that the Lord has sworn to their ancestors to give them; and you will put them in possession of it. It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.’ ‘Do not fear or be dismayed.’ Where, in life, in faith, are you being called to trust? Take time to speak to God with your own words and from the heart of your own thoughts and concerns. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 11 August 2025

Today is Monday the 11th of August, the feast of Saint Clare, in the 19th week of Ordinary Time. As you enter into prayer today, take a moment to slow down. Right down... and notice where you are. As you hear Sanctus Dominum by Margaret Rizza, notice what is around you... what else can you hear? What can you see? What is nearby? People? Objects? Nature? In all of this, God is present. Right here, right now. God’s presence sanctifies this ordinary place, and these ordinary people, these ordinary things, and makes them holy. Sanctus Dominus Deus Sabaoth. Pleni sunt caeli et terra gloria tua. Hosanna in excelsis. Benedictus qui venit in nomine Domini. Hosanna in excelsis. Sanctus. Holy Lord God of hosts. Thy glory fills all heaven and earth. Hosanna in high heaven. Blessed is he who is coming in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in high heaven. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 17:22-27 As they were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, ‘The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into human hands, and they will kill him, and on the third day he will be raised.’ And they were greatly distressed. When they reached Capernaum, the collectors of the temple tax came to Peter and said, ‘Does your teacher not pay the temple tax?’ He said, ‘Yes, he does.’ And when he came home, Jesus spoke of it first, asking, ‘What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their children or from others?’ When Peter said, ‘From others’, Jesus said to him, ‘Then the children are free. However, so that we do not give offence to them, go to the lake and cast a hook; take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a coin; take that and give it to them for you and me.’ Today is the feast day of Clare of Assisi, friend and follower of Francis. She lived the same spiritual freedom, giving up wealth, family status, and comfort—because love compelled her. In Ignatian terms, she had found the “indifference” the freedom to choose only what leads to God’s greater glory. At the beginning of today’s reading, we seem to hear this same attitude in Jesus’ voice. Feel the tension in the air, the sorrow in the hearts of the disciples. And then, this odd instruction: go fish, and from the mouth of a fish, retrieve a coin. How do you respond to the instruction? Where have you seen God’s providence in the small things of today? Is there a “coin” you might be overlooking? Jesus teaches that, as the Son, He is free from the temple tax. But he chooses to pay it—not from compulsion, but from love and humility. Consider where you are holding on to rights or privileges that you could let go… As you listen to the passage again, take time to reflect on how Jesus might be inviting you to act not out of obligation, but compassion and solidarity... Matthew 17:22-27 As they were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, ‘The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into human hands, and they will kill him, and on the third day he will be raised.’ And they were greatly distressed. When they reached Capernaum, the collectors of the temple tax came to Peter and said, ‘Does your teacher not pay the temple tax?’ He said, ‘Yes, he does.’ And when he came home, Jesus spoke of it first, asking, ‘What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their children or from others?’ When Peter said, ‘From others’, Jesus said to him, ‘Then the children are free. However, so that we do not give offence to them, go to the lake and cast a hook; take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a coin; take that and give it to them for you and me.’ ‘So that we do not give offence’. Take a moment in this time of prayer to speak honestly with Jesus, opening your heart to him, trusting in his compassion and care for you. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 10 August 2025

Today is Sunday the 10th of August, beginning the 19th week of Ordinary Time. Eliza King sings, ‘Christ Abides’. In the crowded thoughts, You are an open space And I hear Your voice, calling me to come away Where the eagles fly, You're raising me high with You To heavenly places, heavenly places I have the mind of Christ My portion is His perfect peace For Christ abides with me I'll seek You, Lord, and here in Your shadow hide I won't dread the day, nor fear the terror of the night Though thousands fall, I've been seated all along In heavenly places, in heavenly places I'm with you in heavenly places, in heavenly places I have the mind of Christ My portion is His perfect peace For Christ abides with me He's closer than a friend He takes the weary by the hand And says, "Come abide with me" "Come abide with me For my yoke is easy and my burden light I will raise you up like an eagle into flight You will not grow weary nor will you be faint In your every weakness, I will be your strength" I have the mind of Christ My portion is His perfect peace For Christ abides with me He's closer than a friend He takes the weary by the hand And says, "Come abide with me" Today’s reading is from the Letter to the Hebrews. Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-12 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to set out for a place that he was to receive as an inheritance; and he set out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he stayed for a time in the land he had been promised, as in a foreign land, living in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he looked forward to the city that has foundations, whose architect and builder is God. By faith he received power of procreation, even though he was too old—and Sarah herself was barren—because he considered him faithful who had promised. Therefore from one person, and this one as good as dead, descendants were born, ‘as many as the stars of heaven and as the innumerable grains of sand by the seashore.’ The Letter to the Hebrews is deeply theological, so it is sometimes not easy to understand. Don’t worry too much about that, and just ask God: “what do you want me to learn from this passage?” Here the author is thinking about faith, and what it means. We hear the words: “faith is the assurance of things hoped for”. What does this mean to you? “He set out, not knowing where he was going”. Has God ever asked this of you? If so, was it a disaster or a joy? Now listen as the passage is read for you again. This time, what really stood out for you? Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-12 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to set out for a place that he was to receive as an inheritance; and he set out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he stayed for a time in the land he had been promised, as in a foreign land, living in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he looked forward to the city that has foundations, whose architect and builder is God. By faith he received power of procreation, even though he was too old—and Sarah herself was barren—because he considered him faithful who had promised. Therefore from one person, and this one as good as dead, descendants were born, ‘as many as the stars of heaven and as the innumerable grains of sand by the seashore.’ Finally, look back over the last few minutes, and just see if there is anything that strikes you about it. Could you perhaps turn all that into a prayer to God? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Saturday 9 August 2025

Welcome to the Saturday Examen. Take a moment to become still and alert, in the presence of God. As you look back over your week of prayer, what really stands out for you? Did you at all feel the presence of God in your prayer this week? Was there one particular scripture passage or verse that really spoke to you this week? What do you think it is saying to you now? Was there a point when you really experienced a lightness of heart, and felt that God was there? Was there a moment when you had no sense at all of the presence of God? Why do you think that might have been? What do you think God is saying to you today in your prayer? How are you going to respond? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Friday 8 August 2025

Today is Friday the 8th of August, the feast of Saint Dominic, in the 18th week of Ordinary Time. Bless the Lord, my soul, who leads me into life. The most important thing for me to do now, as I enter into prayer, is to let go for a moment, to let go of my own concerns, my own worries and fears and reluctance, and let myself be led by God, trusting that God, who loves me, will lead me into life. Today’s reading is from the Book of Deuteronomy. Deuteronomy 4:32-40 For ask now about former ages, long before your own, ever since the day that God created human beings on the earth; ask from one end of heaven to the other: has anything so great as this ever happened or has its like ever been heard of? Has any people ever heard the voice of a god speaking out of a fire, as you have heard, and lived? Or has any god ever attempted to go and take a nation for himself from the midst of another nation, by trials, by signs and wonders, by war, by a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, and by terrifying displays of power, as the Lord your God did for you in Egypt before your very eyes? To you it was shown so that you would acknowledge that the Lord is God; there is no other besides him. From heaven he made you hear his voice to discipline you. On earth he showed you his great fire, while you heard his words coming out of the fire. And because he loved your ancestors, he chose their descendants after them. He brought you out of Egypt with his own presence, by his great power, driving out before you nations greater and mightier than yourselves, to bring you in, giving you their land for a possession, as it is still today. So acknowledge today and take to heart that the Lord is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath; there is no other. Keep his statutes and his commandments, which I am commanding you today for your own well-being and that of your descendants after you, so that you may long remain in the land that the Lord your God is giving you for all time. In this passage, Moses is telling the people of God what is going to be expected of them when they cross over the River Jordan into the Promised Land. The first thing he suggests is that they “count their blessings”. Is this something you make a practice of? What has God done for them, all this time? What has God done for you? “The Lord is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath; there is no other.” How might we act in order to show that this is what we believe? Now listen as the passage is read for you again. What really leaps off the page at you? What is the Lord telling you today? Deuteronomy 4:32-40 For ask now about former ages, long before your own, ever since the day that God created human beings on the earth; ask from one end of heaven to the other: has anything so great as this ever happened or has its like ever been heard of? Has any people ever heard the voice of a god speaking out of a fire, as you have heard, and lived? Or has any god ever attempted to go and take a nation for himself from the midst of another nation, by trials, by signs and wonders, by war, by a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, and by terrifying displays of power, as the Lord your God did for you in Egypt before your very eyes? To you it was shown so that you would acknowledge that the Lord is God; there is no other besides him. From heaven he made you hear his voice to discipline you. On earth he showed you his great fire, while you heard his words coming out of the fire. And because he loved your ancestors, he chose their descendants after them. He brought you out of Egypt with his own presence, by his great power, driving out before you nations greater and mightier than yourselves, to bring you in, giving you their land for a possession, as it is still today. So acknowledge today and take to heart that the Lord is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath; there is no other. Keep his statutes and his commandments, which I am commanding you today for your own well-being and that of your descendants after you, so that you may long remain in the land that the Lord your God is giving you for all time. Speak with God about anything lingering with you as this prayer comes to a close... perhaps returning to that question: What has God done for you? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 7 August 2025

Today is Thursday the 7th of August, in the 18th week of Ordinary Time. Juliano Ravanello sings ‘Santo é o Senhor Nosso Deus’: Holy is the Lord our God. (Lyrics currently unavailable) Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 16:13-20 Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, ‘Who do people say that the Son of Man is?’ And they said, ‘Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’ And Jesus answered him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.’ Then he sternly ordered the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah. In today’s passage, Jesus is asking his disciples how his mission is going, and they come up with various possible answers: like “John the Baptist”, or “Elijah” or “like Jeremiah, or one of the prophets”. What do think is going on here, in Jesus? In the disciples? In Peter? Simon Peter has apparently got it right: what has he seen? Is that what you see in Jesus? As you listen to the passage again, really hear Jesus’ words and notice if anything stands out to you... Matthew 16:13-20 Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, ‘Who do people say that the Son of Man is?’ And they said, ‘Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’ And Jesus answered him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.’ Then he sternly ordered the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah. As this time of prayer comes to an end, spend time with Jesus...hear him ask you the question: ‘But who do you say that I am?’ How will you reply? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 6 August 2025

Today is Wednesday the 6th of August, the feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, in the 18th week of Ordinary Time. The monks of Pluscarden Abbey sing Assumpsit Jesus: ‘Jesus took Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, and he was transfigured in front of them.’ (Lyrics currently unavailable) Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke. Luke 9:28b-36 Now about eight days after these sayings Jesus took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him. They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. Now Peter and his companions were weighed down with sleep; but since they had stayed awake, they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. Just as they were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, ‘Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah’—not knowing what he said. While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were terrified as they entered the cloud. Then from the cloud came a voice that said, ‘This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!’ When the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and in those days told no one any of the things they had seen. Today we celebrate the feast of the Transfiguration, which is the name we give to the event of Jesus’ changed appearance up there on the mountain. Place yourself in this extraordinary scene... Jesus and Moses and Elijah were "talking about his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem”. What do their voices sound like as they speak to one another? How is it to hear them talking about Jesus’ departure? Peter wants to build “three tents”. What do you think prompts him to offer this? Do you think it’s a good idea? As you listen to the passage again, notice what “the cloud” is telling them... what is it saying to you today? Luke 9:28b-36 Now about eight days after these sayings Jesus took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. And while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly they saw two men, Moses and Elijah, talking to him. They appeared in glory and were speaking of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. Now Peter and his companions were weighed down with sleep; but since they had stayed awake, they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. Just as they were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, ‘Master, it is good for us to be here; let us make three dwellings, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah’—not knowing what he said. While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were terrified as they entered the cloud. Then from the cloud came a voice that said, ‘This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!’ When the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and in those days told no one any of the things they had seen. Finally, look back over the last few minutes of prayer and speak to God about what is staying with you most... Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 5 August 2025

Today is Tuesday the 5th of August, in the 18th week of Ordinary Time. The St Thomas Music Group sing the Prayer of St Theresa by Margaret Rizza. 'Let nothing disturb you, nothing distress you. While all things fade away, God is unchanging. Be patient, for with God in your heart, nothing is lacking. God is enough.' Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 14:22-36 Immediately [Jesus] made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but by this time the boat, battered by the waves, was far from the land, for the wind was against them. And early in the morning he came walking towards them on the lake. But when the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified, saying, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out in fear. Peter answered him, ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’ He said, ‘Come.’ So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came towards Jesus. But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshipped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’ When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret. After the people of that place recognized him, they sent word throughout the region and brought all who were sick to him, and begged him that they might touch even the fringe of his cloak; and all who touched it were healed. Imagine being one of the disciples now, battered by the waves in the boat... Imagine the moment you see something on the water... what makes you all think it is a ghost? Watch as Peter gets out of the boat...What is going on in Peter’s mind, do you think? How do you feel about him getting out to walk towards Jesus? Especially after thinking he was a ghost just a moment ago...! The passage will now be read once more for you. As you listen, continue to place yourself there... notice if anything new catches your attention... Matthew 14:22-36 Immediately [Jesus] made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but by this time the boat, battered by the waves, was far from the land, for the wind was against them. And early in the morning he came walking towards them on the lake. But when the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified, saying, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out in fear. Peter answered him, ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’ He said, ‘Come.’ So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came towards Jesus. But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshipped him, saying, ‘Truly you are the Son of God.’ When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret. After the people of that place recognized him, they sent word throughout the region and brought all who were sick to him, and begged him that they might touch even the fringe of his cloak; and all who touched it were healed. Finally, can you look back over the last few minutes, and bring together all the thoughts and feelings that arose in your heart? Can you turn them into a prayer to God? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 4 August 2025

Today is Monday the 4th of August, the feast of Saint John Vianney, in the 18th week of Ordinary Time. Luke Parker sings, ‘In Quietness’. How will you meet with the Lord today? When I am down and on my knees You are enough, you're all I need It's here you meet me, so I'll stay In the stillness of your embrace When I am down and on my knees With all that I am surrendering And in this moment face to face In your presence, Lord, I will wait In quietness I wait for you to speak My spirit thirsty, Lord, longing for you And I'll wait, Lord, for more of you My soul thirsts, Lord, for more of you You break the silence Your voice it inspires And I am in awe of your love You bring a newness of life in its fullness Revealing the plans of your heart In quietness I wait for you to speak My spirit thirsty, Lord, longing for you And I'll wait, Lord, for more of you My soul thirsts, Lord, for more of you When I am down and on my knees In this moment, Lord, I will wait Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 14:13-21 Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a deserted place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. When he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them and cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, ‘This is a deserted place, and the hour is now late; send the crowds away so that they may go into the villages and buy food for themselves.’ Jesus said to them, ‘They need not go away; you give them something to eat.’ They replied, ‘We have nothing here but five loaves and two fish.’ And he said, ‘Bring them here to me.’ Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And all ate and were filled; and they took up what was left over of the broken pieces, twelve baskets full. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children. This story starts with Jesus hearing of the execution of John the Baptist; and we notice that his response is not to challenge Herod, but to seek solitude, perhaps to reflect on what he should do next; but the crowds will not allow him any peace and quiet. The disciples are trying to persuade Jesus to “get rid of them”. Yet we hear that Jesus had compassion on the crowds. Be with Jesus in this moment... what might he want to tell you about His compassion? Jesus “blessed and broke the bread”. What might we remember as we hear these words? Maybe the Last Supper? Or the Road to Emmaus... Stay with Jesus and perhaps speak with Him about what is to come... Now listen as the passage is read once more. Does anything catch your attention? Matthew 14:13-21 Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a deserted place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. When he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them and cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, ‘This is a deserted place, and the hour is now late; send the crowds away so that they may go into the villages and buy food for themselves.’ Jesus said to them, ‘They need not go away; you give them something to eat.’ They replied, ‘We have nothing here but five loaves and two fish.’ And he said, ‘Bring them here to me.’ Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And all ate and were filled; and they took up what was left over of the broken pieces, twelve baskets full. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children. Finally, try to remember all the emotions and feelings that this passage has aroused in you. Do you think that you can turn them into a prayer to God? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 3 August 2025

Today is Sunday the 3rd of August, beginning the 18th week of Ordinary Time. David Thomas with the Taverner Players, sings Ich Habe Genug from Bach’s Cantata number 82, echoing the words of Simeon: ‘I have enough. I have taken the Saviour, the hope of the Gentiles, into my arms.’ Often when we pray, we ask God for this and for that. And fair enough, we have needs and it is right to bring them before God. But there is something rather beautiful – there is something very beautiful – about this prayer, which just says, ‘I have you, Lord. I have enough.’ Ich habe genug, Ich habe den Heiland, das Hoffen der Frommen, Auf meine begierigen Arme genommen. Ich habe genug. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke. Luke 12:13-21 Someone in the crowd said to [Jesus], ‘Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me.’ But he said to him, ‘Friend, who set me to be a judge or arbitrator over you?’ And he said to them, ‘Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.’ Then he told them a parable: ‘The land of a rich man produced abundantly. And he thought to himself, “What should I do, for I have no place to store my crops?” Then he said, “I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.” But God said to him, “You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?” So it is with those who store up treasures for themselves but are not rich towards God.’ Today we hear one of Jesus’ many warnings against relying on wealth, possessions or status for our wellbeing and security. Thinking of your own attitude in this regard, how do you feel you need to respond to his warning? How do you think one becomes ‘rich in the sight of God’? Does that describe how you are, or how you want to be? Or are there anxieties or other feelings within you that push against the words of Jesus here? As you listen once more to Jesus speaking about our relationship to money and possessions, what thoughts, anxieties or desires come to your mind? Take time to allow them to surface as honestly as you can. Luke 12:13-21 Someone in the crowd said to [Jesus], ‘Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me.’ But he said to him, ‘Friend, who set me to be a judge or arbitrator over you?’ And he said to them, ‘Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.’ Then he told them a parable: ‘The land of a rich man produced abundantly. And he thought to himself, “What should I do, for I have no place to store my crops?” Then he said, “I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.” But God said to him, “You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?” So it is with those who store up treasures for themselves but are not rich towards God.’ People turn to many things other than God for their security. Where does your security, or your need of it lie? Take time to talk to Jesus about how you feel in response to his parable. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Saturday 2 August 2025

Welcome to the Saturday Examen. During this week we have listened to the parables that Jesus tells his disciples. We’re told that he used parable to reveal God’s mysteries, but the parables are a mystery in themselves. In Matthew’s Gospel Jesus thanks his Father from hiding the mysteries of the Kingdom from the learned and the clever and revealing them to those with simple and child-like faith. Yet many people desire to have faith but struggle to believe. What gifts of faith are you aware of in your life for which you wish to give thanks? Even those closest to Jesus had their faith challenged by him. We see this with Mary, Martha and Lazarus, with his mother and closest disciples. He asks them to witness death and yet still believe that he is the resurrection. Are you aware of anything that Jesus has brought to life or brought back from death within you? In the parable of the dragnet Jesus talks of fishers sorting out what has been caught in their net, keeping what is good and throwing out what serves no purpose. He uses this image to illustrate the final judgement. Are you aware of anything in your life that serves no purpose and needs to be let go? Spend some time allowing for anything to come to the surface, or ask Jesus to shed light on this for you and help you to discern what to do. The people of Nazareth thought they knew all about Jesus but could not make the leap of faith in him, in his words or in his saving power. Is there anything that makes it hard for you to believe in his power to bring healing and salvation to your life? What grace do you feel you stand in need of at this time? Take time to share with Jesus whatever is in your heart. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Friday 1 August 2025

Today is Friday the 1st of August, the feast of Saint Alphonsus Liguori, in the 17th week of Ordinary Time. The monks of Keur Moussa sing: ‘Lord Jesus, we await your coming in faith, more sure of seeing your day than a watchman awaiting the dawn.’ (Lyrics currently unavailable) Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 13:54-58 [Jesus] came to his home town and began to teach the people in their synagogue, so that they were astounded and said, ‘Where did this man get this wisdom and these deeds of power? Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all this?’ And they took offence at him. But Jesus said to them, ‘Prophets are not without honour except in their own country and in their own house.’ And he did not do many deeds of power there, because of their unbelief. Jesus goes home, where they are not impressed by this local boy turned rabbi. Neither his preaching nor his healing power can overcome their prejudice against him. Imagine yourself in the synagogue of Nazareth – how do you see yourself reacting to Jesus? Matthew tells us that Jesus did not work many miracles in Nazareth because of their lack of faith. Often in moments of healing or forgiveness in the Gospels, Jesus says to someone, ‘Your faith has saved you’. How would you feel if he said this to you? Listening again to this challenging reading, notice what words strike you and how you respond to them. Matthew 13:54-58 [Jesus] came to his home town and began to teach the people in their synagogue, so that they were astounded and said, ‘Where did this man get this wisdom and these deeds of power? Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all this?’ And they took offence at him. But Jesus said to them, ‘Prophets are not without honour except in their own country and in their own house.’ And he did not do many deeds of power there, because of their unbelief. Is there anything that makes it difficult or challenging for you to accept the power of Jesus in your life? Or do you feel able to make an act of faith in him? Take time to tell him what is in your heart. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 31 July 2025

Today is Thursday the 31st of July, the feast of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, in the 17th week of Ordinary Time. The monks of Glenstal Abbey sing Ubi caritas est vera, Deus ibi est. Wherever love is true, God is there. Ubi caritas est vera, Deus ibi est. Congregavit nos in unum Christi amor. Exsultemus, et in ipso jucundemur. Timeamus, et amemus Deum vivum. Et ex corde diligamus nos sincero. Ubi caritas est vera, Deus ibi est. Simul ergo cum in unum congregamur: Ne nos mente dividamur, caveamus. Cessent iurgia maligna, cessent lites. Et in medio nostri sit Christus Deus. Ubi caritas est vera, Deus ibi est. Simul quoque cum beatis videamus, Glorianter vultum tuum, Christe Deus: Gaudium quod est immensum, atque probum, Saecula per infinita saeculorum. Amen. Where love is true, God is there. Love of Christ has gathered us into one. Let us rejoice in Him and be glad. Let us fear, and let us love the living God. And from a sincere heart let us love one. Where love is true, God is there. At the same time, therefore, are gathered into one: Lest we be divided in mind, let us beware. Let evil impulses stop, let controversy cease. And in the midst of us be Christ our God. Where love is true, God is there. At the same time we see that with the saints also, Thy face in glory, O Christ our God: The joy that is immense and good, Unto the World without end. Amen. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 13:47-53 ‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind; when it was full, they drew it ashore, sat down, and put the good into baskets but threw out the bad. So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. ‘Have you understood all this?’ They answered, ‘Yes.’ And he said to them, ‘Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a household who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.’ When Jesus had finished these parables, he left that place. Once again, we hear Jesus speaking in parables, using language familiar to an audience that included people who fished for a living. His parable is about judgement. We may feel uncomfortable thinking about being judged, but this parable is both challenge and invitation to us to take stock of our lives and our choices. Today is the feast of St. Ignatius. In his Spiritual Exercises, Ignatius asks us to consider what we would wish to have done with our lives if we knew that today was the last day of our life. How would you answer that question? Peter the fisherman’s initial response to Jesus was an admission of his sins. Yet Jesus called and chose him repeatedly, despite every one of Peter’s weaknesses. As we hear the parable again, is there any admission you wish to make, or any invitation that you can hear Jesus make to you? Matthew 13:47-53 ‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind; when it was full, they drew it ashore, sat down, and put the good into baskets but threw out the bad. So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. ‘Have you understood all this?’ They answered, ‘Yes.’ And he said to them, ‘Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a household who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.’ When Jesus had finished these parables, he left that place. Jesus speaks of his disciples bringing out from their storeroom new things as well as old. How does this refer to you? Take time to speak to God about your reflections on this parable. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 30 July 2025

Today is Wednesday the 30th of July, in the 17th week of Ordinary Time. Steffany Gretzinger sings, ‘Show Me Your Face’. Moses stood on a mountain Waiting for You to pass by You put Your hand over his face So in Your Presence, he wouldn't die And all of Israel saw the glory And it shines down through the age Now You've called me To boldly seek Your Face Show me Your face, Lord Show me Your face And then gird up my legs That I might stand in this holy place Show me Your face, Lord Your power and Your grace Your power and grace I would make it to the end If I can just see Your face David knew there was something more Than the ark of Your presence In a manger Messiah was born Among kings and peasants And all of Israel saw the glory And it shines down through the age Now You've called us To boldly seek Your face Show me Your face, Lord Show me Your face And then gird up my legs That I might stand in this holy place Show me Your face, Lord Your power and Your grace Your power and grace I will make it to the end If I can just see Your face I know I will make it to the end If I can just see Your face Today’s reading is from the Book of Exodus. Exodus 34:29-35 Moses came down from Mount Sinai. As he came down from the mountain with the two tablets of the covenant in his hand, Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God. When Aaron and all the Israelites saw Moses, the skin of his face was shining, and they were afraid to come near him. But Moses called to them; and Aaron and all the leaders of the congregation returned to him, and Moses spoke with them. Afterwards all the Israelites came near, and he gave them in commandment all that the Lord had spoken with him on Mount Sinai. When Moses had finished speaking with them, he put a veil on his face; but whenever Moses went in before the Lord to speak with him, he would take the veil off, until he came out; and when he came out, and told the Israelites what he had been commanded, the Israelites would see the face of Moses, that the skin of his face was shining; and Moses would put the veil on his face again, until he went in to speak with him. God and Moses are described in Exodus chapter 33 as speaking ‘face to face’, as friends speak to one another. Yet earlier God tells Moses that no one can see God’s face and survive. This describes both God’s presence and seeming absence. How have you found trying to live in relationship with God? Moses has to wear a veil to hide the radiance of his face after meeting God in person. Is there any sense in which God seems ‘veiled’ to you and to the world in general? Why do you think this is? As we listen to the words of the reading again, what do you sense God wanting to say to you in particular through the words and images? Take some time to become attentive to God’s presence here and now. Exodus 34:29-35 Moses came down from Mount Sinai. As he came down from the mountain with the two tablets of the covenant in his hand, Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God. When Aaron and all the Israelites saw Moses, the skin of his face was shining, and they were afraid to come near him. But Moses called to them; and Aaron and all the leaders of the congregation returned to him, and Moses spoke with them. Afterwards all the Israelites came near, and he gave them in commandment all that the Lord had spoken with him on Mount Sinai. When Moses had finished speaking with them, he put a veil on his face; but whenever Moses went in before the Lord to speak with him, he would take the veil off, until he came out; and when he came out, and told the Israelites what he had been commanded, the Israelites would see the face of Moses, that the skin of his face was shining; and Moses would put the veil on his face again, until he went in to speak with him. Where have your thoughts and imagination taken you in response to today’s reading? Take some time now to speak from your heart to God, expressing whatever thoughts and feelings arise at this time. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 29 July 2025

Today is Tuesday the 29th of July, the feast of Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus, in the 17th week of Ordinary Time. The University of Johannesburg Choir sing the Kyrie: Lord, have mercy; Christ, have mercy. Kyrie eleison Christe eleison Today’s reading is from the Gospel of John. John 11:19-27 Many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to console them about their brother [Lazarus]. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him, while Mary stayed at home. Martha said to Jesus, ‘Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask of him.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Your brother will rise again.’ Martha said to him, ‘I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.’ Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?’ She said to him, ‘Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one coming into the world.’ Martha has suffered the terrible pain of losing a beloved family member. Her pain is compounded by a question many of us ask when devastated by loss: why was God not there when I was in need? Is this question one that you have asked or have witnessed in others? Can you enter into the feelings behind that question? Jesus doesn’t offer easy comfort. He challenges Martha to faith even in the face of death. How do you feel on hearing his words? He proclaims himself to be the resurrection and gives living proof of this after his own death. How do you experience Jesus as the resurrection in your day-to-day life? Now we hear the readings repeated. Notice what thoughts and feelings strike you and why. Jesus asks Martha to respond to him in faith. How do you find yourself responding to this scene? John 11:19-27 Many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to console them about their brother [Lazarus]. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him, while Mary stayed at home. Martha said to Jesus, ‘Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask of him.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Your brother will rise again.’ Martha said to him, ‘I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.’ Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?’ She said to him, ‘Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one coming into the world.’ This encounter between Jesus and Martha is full of challenge and honesty. Jesus invites us through this scene to speak from the heart and to listen with open ears. Take time now to do this. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 28 July 2025

Today is Monday the 28th of July, in the 17th week of Ordinary Time. Jon Guerra sings, ‘The Kingdom of Jesus’. As you listen, notice how you imagine the Kingdom of Jesus...does an image from this song help you? To what shall we compare the Kingdom of Jesus if not a seed? It's small, it's sown, it's tended and grown and it's stirred in you and me Its branches never break and its fruit never withers His Kingdom is not of this world or of any Kingdom whose ruler's face is on a penny He comes to make all things bright and put a new wine in us He's chosen the small things to outlast the great The meek and the merciful to shine through the hate Though it seems some days that Hell and its gates are prevailing Oh, say can you see the kingdom within us Is the Kingdom of Jesus? To what shall we compare the spirit of the hour if not a sword? It frees us, unites us, enslaves and divides us and violence, help us Lord His Kingdom is not of this world or of any Kingdom whose ruler's face is on a penny He comes to make all things bright and put a new wine in us He's chosen the small things to outlast the great The meek and the merciful to shine through the hate Though it seems some days that Hell and its gates are prevailing Oh say can't you see we have one allegiance? It's to the Kingdom of Jesus He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world He who is in us is greater and He's overcome the world Oh His Kingdom is not one of slander or rage But one that is ruled by the Lamb who was slain And is worthy of wisdom and honour and glory and strength No pain, no division, no public disgrace Will compare with seeing the smile on His face As He welcomes the poor as children with places at the table Not a death, nor threat, nor power can ever separate us From the love of God forever in Christ Jesus Everything shall pass away but not the Word that's within us It's the Kingdom of Jesus Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 13:31-35 [Jesus] put before them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.’ He told them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of flour until all of it was leavened.’ Jesus told the crowds all these things in parables; without a parable he told them nothing. This was to fulfil what had been spoken through the prophet: ‘I will open my mouth to speak in parables; I will proclaim what has been hidden from the foundation of the world.’ Matthew suggests that Jesus used parables so as to reveal hidden mysteries, yet we are left to make up our own minds about their meaning. How do the images of the mustard seed and the yeast in the flour help you to understand the kingdom of Heaven? Give time for your imagination to find an answer. The parable of the mustard seed is about the smallest of all seeds growing to the size of a tree. What do you see as small and insignificant in your life, or in the world that, with enough faith, hope and love, could grow into something that sustains and shelters others? Without yeast, bread can’t rise and become nourishing. What grace do you need to become bread for others? As the reading is repeated, notice how the images in the parables take hold of your imagination and speak to you. Matthew 13:31-35 [Jesus] put before them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.’ He told them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of flour until all of it was leavened.’ Jesus told the crowds all these things in parables; without a parable he told them nothing. This was to fulfil what had been spoken through the prophet: ‘I will open my mouth to speak in parables; I will proclaim what has been hidden from the foundation of the world.’ If you were one of the crowd listening to Jesus and his parables, how would you respond to what you heard? Would there be questions you would want to ask? Take a few minutes to speak to Jesus from your heart. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 27 July 2025

Today is Sunday the 27th of July, beginning the 17th week of Ordinary Time. Eliza King sings, ‘The Lord’s Prayer’. God my Holy Father, first your name I seek Trusting like a child, You will meet my need Let Your kingdom come as Your will is done in me Usher into earth all that heaven longs to see What I’m needing daily, You hold in your hands Here I find forgiveness, and grace to forgive Let Your kingdom come as Your will is done in me Usher into earth all that heaven longs to see Keep me from the one who would lead my heart astray Every time I call, Father You deliver me Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory Now and forever, Amen Let Your kingdom come as Your will is done in me Usher into earth all that heaven longs to see Keep me from the one who would lead my heart astray Every time I call, Father You deliver me Today's reading is from the Gospel of Luke. (Luke 11:1-13) In today’s Gospel, Jesus is teaching about prayer. Let’s take this scripture a little at a time... He was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.’ We see Jesus making time for prayer. The disciples saw how important this was to him and asked him to help them make a beginning. He said to them, ‘When you pray, say:  We now have the presentation of the Our Father. After each line, let it echo in your mind and heart; let it drop down to a deeper place: Father, hallowed be your name  . . .  Your kingdom come  . . .  Give us each day our daily bread . . .     And forgive us our sins . . .      for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us . . .    And do not bring us to the time of trial.’  . . . Jesus goes on, with an amusing encouragement to perseverance in prayer: And he said to them, ‘Suppose one of you has a friend, and you go to him at midnight and say to him, “Friend, lend me three loaves of bread; for a friend of mine has arrived, and I have nothing to set before him.” And he answers from within, “Do not bother me; the door has already been locked, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything.” I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, at least because of his persistence he will get up and give him whatever he needs.  Does this teaching of Jesus invite us to wear God down with the weight of our praying, as if that is what God wants from us? Can we change God’s mind with holy nagging? What is Jesus really saying here? . . . He goes on: ‘So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!’   Are there requests we can make that we know God already wants to fulfil? It seems there are. Whenever we pray for the Holy Spirit's gifts and fruits – such a prayer is in accord with God’s will. But why ask for wisdom, for courage, for joy, for peace, if God already knows our need for these? Sometimes our asking opens us up to receive what God wants to give. We acquiesce in the dance of grace. We open our hand to receive the gift. ‘So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you.’ So then, child of God that you are, beloved disciple of Jesus, tell the Holy Spirit your requests. . . Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Saturday 26 July 2025

Welcome to the Saturday Examen. Take a few moments today to see the past week with the Lord’s guidance. Prepare yourself for prayer by focussing on your breath…take a few deep breath... Notice how the change in breath brings stillness and an awareness of God’s presence. We might begin by asking for the wisdom that also weaves throughout the scripture for this week. Cast your mind back over the week… where have you experienced this need of the Lord, a call to witness, a generosity of Spirit? Is there a particular moment God is drawing you to remember? Notice what rises to the surface naturally… allow the moment to reveal itself … Do you notice any challenges, lack of understanding or frustration? Allow these moments to be witnessed… Where, in the prayer journey of the week, have you found an opening of the heart? Where have you been challenged? Has there been something calling you to action this week? Again, notice what arises naturally… Look forward to the days to come, with a prayer of thanksgiving, asking for God's grace and guidance to carry the insights gained into each day. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Friday 25 July 2025

Today is Friday the 25th of July, in the 16th week of Ordinary Time. The Kyiv Chamber Choir sing In Thy Kingdom from One Thousand Years Of Ukrainian Sacred Music. (Lyrics currently unavailable) Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 20:20-28 Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came to him with her sons, and kneeling before him, she asked a favour of him. And he said to her, ‘What do you want?’ She said to him, ‘Declare that these two sons of mine will sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.’ But Jesus answered, ‘You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?’ They said to him, ‘We are able.’ He said to them, ‘You will indeed drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left, this is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.’ When the ten heard it, they were angry with the two brothers. But Jesus called them to him and said, ‘You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. It will not be so among you; but whoever wishes to be great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be your slave; just as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.’ If mothers could arrange the status of our place in heaven, they’d be even busier than they already are. Jesus lets this mum down gently and saves a lot of others some pointless agitating. Take a moment to notice how Jesus deals with this situation...does something inspire you, or intrigue you? A change of tone: could you imagine the mother of James and John recalling this request at the crucifixion? Her conviction that of course her sons could drink the same cup as Jesus? . . . There is an insight in this passage into the company Jesus kept. He wasn’t just surrounded by twelve apostles, but by a rich mix of family, friends, family of friends and friends of family. We might wonder what the merry band was like. Indeed, as you listen again, why not tag along, noticing how annoyed the other disciples get . . . Matthew 20:20-28 Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came to him with her sons, and kneeling before him, she asked a favour of him. And he said to her, ‘What do you want?’ She said to him, ‘Declare that these two sons of mine will sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.’ But Jesus answered, ‘You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?’ They said to him, ‘We are able.’ He said to them, ‘You will indeed drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left, this is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.’ When the ten heard it, they were angry with the two brothers. But Jesus called them to him and said, ‘You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. It will not be so among you; but whoever wishes to be great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be your slave; just as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.’ Today is the feast day of St James... perhaps his mother would be pleased about this! Spend some time with Jesus now, praying with anything that has arisen for you during this prayer. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 24 July 2025

Today is Thursday the 24th of July, in the 16th week of Ordinary Time. The community of Taizé sing Toi, tu nous aimes. “You love us, Lord, source of life.” As I listen, I remind myself that I am in the presence of God right now, that God is looking on me now with love. (Lyrics currently unavailable) Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 13:10-17 Then the disciples came and asked him, ‘Why do you speak to them in parables?’ He answered, ‘To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For to those who have, more will be given, and they will have an abundance; but from those who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away. The reason I speak to them in parables is that “seeing they do not perceive, and hearing they do not listen, nor do they understand.” With them indeed is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah that says: “You will indeed listen, but never understand, and you will indeed look, but never perceive. For this people’s heart has grown dull, and their ears are hard of hearing, and they have shut their eyes; so that they might not look with their eyes, and listen with their ears, and understand with their heart and turn— and I would heal them.” But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. Truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it. Jesus did tell a lot of stories. He was rather good at it. And they continue to inspire and confound us in equal measure. Sometimes, we can hear the frustration of his listeners... and, maybe Jesus is a bit fed up with the response to his teaching sometimes too! What do you hear as you listen to Jesus’ teachings and stories? What’s your favourite of all his parables or illustrations? . . . Perhaps this is a great treasure for you... Listen again to Jesus talking to his disciples about parables. Try and work out what on earth is going on in this rather intriguing answer. Matthew 13:10-17 Then the disciples came and asked him, ‘Why do you speak to them in parables?’ He answered, ‘To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For to those who have, more will be given, and they will have an abundance; but from those who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away. The reason I speak to them in parables is that “seeing they do not perceive, and hearing they do not listen, nor do they understand.” With them indeed is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah that says: “You will indeed listen, but never understand, and you will indeed look, but never perceive. For this people’s heart has grown dull, and their ears are hard of hearing, and they have shut their eyes; so that they might not look with their eyes, and listen with their ears, and understand with their heart and turn— and I would heal them.” But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. Truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it. ‘But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear.’ Perhaps you would like to ask Jesus for this gift today... to really see and hear him... Speak now to Jesus about this, or anything else that has stirred in you today... Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 23 July 2025

Today is Wednesday the 23rd of July, the feast of St Bridget of Sweden, in the 16th week of Ordinary Time. Jon Guerra and Sandra McCracken with The Porter’s Gate sing, ‘The Kingdom of Jesus’. To what shall we compare the Kingdom of Jesus if not a seed? It's small, it's sown, it's tended and grown and it's stirred in you and me Its branches never break and its fruit never withers His Kingdom is not of this world or of any Kingdom whose ruler's face is on a penny He comes to make all things bright and put a new wine in us He's chosen the small things to outlast the great The meek and the merciful to shine through the hate Though it seems some days that Hell and its gates are prevailing Oh, say can you see the kingdom within us Is the Kingdom of Jesus? To what shall we compare the spirit of the hour if not a sword? It frees us, unites us, enslaves and divides us and violence, help us Lord His Kingdom is not of this world or of any Kingdom whose ruler's face is on a penny He comes to make all things bright and put a new wine in us He's chosen the small things to outlast the great The meek and the merciful to shine through the hate Though it seems some days that Hell and its gates are prevailing Oh say can't you see we have one allegiance? It's to the Kingdom of Jesus He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world He who is in us is greater and He's overcome the world Oh His Kingdom is not one of slander or rage But one that is ruled by the Lamb who was slain And is worthy of wisdom and honour and glory and strength No pain, no division, no public disgrace Will compare with seeing the smile on His face As He welcomes the poor as children with places at the table Not a death, nor threat, nor power can ever separate us From the love of God forever in Christ Jesus Everything shall pass away but not the Word that's within us It's the Kingdom of Jesus Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 13:1-9 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the lake. Such great crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat there, while the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables, saying: ‘Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell on the path, and the birds came and ate them up. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and they sprang up quickly, since they had no depth of soil. But when the sun rose, they were scorched; and since they had no root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. Let anyone with ears listen!’ This is the reading to commemorate the Feast Day of St Bridget of Sweden. Her devotion to family, to the poor, to Church reform proves her to be seed very well sown. Most of us wouldn’t put ourselves quite in that category. Perhaps you can see yourself, to some extent, in all of the images Jesus uses. Where are you like the seed that falls on the path and goes nowhere except to the birds? . . . Rocky ground? Are there times when your early enthusiasm wanes rather quickly when a challenge comes? . . . What thorns limit the fertile growth of your life by crowding you out and stealing your energy? . . . And, thank God, where has your seed fallen on good ground and is bearing fruit? . . . What is the good ground? . . . what nourishes the tender plants? . . . how is your garden watered? . . . what brings light and warmth to help you grow? . . . As you listen again, you might imagine Jesus actually speaking it in situ, and pointing to the different examples of seed sowing. He might engage in some playful banter with the children as they help him to tell the story . . . Matthew 13:1-9 And he told them many things in parables, saying: ‘Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell on the path, and the birds came and ate them up. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and they sprang up quickly, since they had no depth of soil. But when the sun rose, they were scorched; and since they had no root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. Let anyone with ears listen!’ As Jesus looks at this parable with you, which of the four images is he most interested in? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 22 July 2025

Today is Tuesday the 22nd of July, the feast of Mary Magdalene, in the 16th week of Ordinary Time. Steffany Gretzinger sings, ‘I Love You Lord’. As we prepare to pray with Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the Risen Jesus today, place yourself now in the garden of the resurrection... what catches your attention? The flowers? Any wildlife near you? The stone of the tomb? I love You, Lord And I lift my voice To worship You Oh, my soul rejoice Take joy, my King In what You hear May it be a sweet, sweet sound in Your ear Today's reading is from the Gospel of John. This happy Feast of Mary Magdalene gives us permission to touch again the joy of the risen Christ through the hands of one who loved him in so many ways. We will hear the gospel account of Jesus appearing to Mary Magdalene. We’ll hear it only once and then enter into the scene imaginatively. As you listen to the story being told, you may already find yourself entering the scene with Mary . . . John 20:1-2, 11-18 Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, ‘They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.’  But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb; and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had been lying, one at the head and the other at the feet. They said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping?’ She said to them, ‘They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.’ When she had said this, she turned round and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping? For whom are you looking?’ Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, ‘Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Mary!’ She turned and said to him in Hebrew, ‘Rabbouni!’ (which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, ‘Do not hold on to me, because I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and say to them, “I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” ‘Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, ‘I have seen the Lord’; and she told them that he had said these things to her.  Spend a moment in each of these scenes, and if you need longer, you can press pause and take your time, or go back to any part of this later . . . Jesus has died. See Mary making her way to the tomb to anoint his body . . . On arrival the tomb is empty, and his body gone . . . Later she is weeping at the tomb . . . Turn your attention to Jesus who sees her there . . . he knows what he is going to do . . . how does he look at her? . . . how does he speak these words? “Woman, why are you weeping? For whom are you looking?” . . . She thinks he’s the gardener until he says her name, “Mary” . . . now watch and what happens between them . . . . . . No doubt she would like this to go on a lot longer, but Jesus has a task for her . . . she does not have to cling to this way of being with him . . . listen to Jesus then as he sends her on mission . . . and she departs to apostle the Apostles . . . As for you, tarry a while in the garden and let Jesus speak your name? . . . How does he mission you? . . . Go in peace to proclaim the Gospel . . . Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 21 July 2025

Today is Monday the 21st of July, in the 16th week of Ordinary Time. The St Thomas Music Group sing the Prayer of St Theresa by Margaret Rizza. 'Let nothing disturb you, nothing distress you. While all things fade away, God is unchanging. Be patient, for with God in your heart, nothing is lacking. God is enough.' Today’s reading is from the Book of Exodus. (Exodus 14:5-18) The Israelites have escaped Egypt but Pharaoh has relented and decided to go after them. The Israelites lose confidence and complain to God and to Moses. But God has a plan. How might we pray with this text? How might we work with images of God that are perhaps not quite our own? Let’s try imaginative contemplation with the story just as it is. Remember, if you can’t enter the scene imaginatively, don’t force it, but allow yourself to consider the events however you can . . . Today, you’ll hear the passage interspersed with our reflective questions... Be amongst the Israelites, having escaped the slave-labour of Egypt, you are set free . . . an adventure full of hope lies ahead; God goes before you and your friends are at your side . . . catch the mood of liberation . . . When the king of Egypt was told that the people had fled, the minds of Pharaoh and his officials were changed towards the people, and they said, ‘What have we done, letting Israel leave our service?’ So he had his chariot made ready, and took his army with him; he took six hundred picked chariots and all the other chariots of Egypt with officers over all of them. The Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt and he pursued the Israelites, who were going out boldly. The Egyptians pursued them, all Pharaoh’s horses and chariots, his chariot drivers and his army; they overtook them camped by the sea, by Pi-hahiroth, in front of Baal-zephon.  Imagine the most powerful army on earth gathering all of its resources in a bid to find and smite you. Hear the sound of the chariots; see the weapons glinting in the sun; smell the sweat of the horses; feel the vibration of the air around and earth beneath your feet; taste the sour loathing in the hearts of the Egyptians . . . As Pharaoh drew near, the Israelites looked back, and there were the Egyptians advancing on them. In great fear the Israelites cried out to the Lord. They said to Moses, ‘Was it because there were no graves in Egypt that you have taken us away to die in the wilderness? What have you done to us, bringing us out of Egypt? Is this not the very thing we told you in Egypt, “Let us alone and let us serve the Egyptians”? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the wilderness.’ But Moses said to the people, ‘Do not be afraid, stand firm, and see the deliverance that the Lord will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians whom you see today you shall never see again. The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to keep still.’  Now consider the fear of the people and find yourself with them. The most powerful army on earth has come for you and all seems lost. Your freedom has been short-lived. The adventure is over. Hopes are dashed. Hear the complaints against Moses and against God . . . Hear Moses say, “Do not be afraid, stand firm.” . . . Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Why do you cry out to me? Tell the Israelites to go forward. But you lift up your staff, and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it, that the Israelites may go into the sea on dry ground. Then I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they will go in after them; and so I will gain glory for myself over Pharaoh and all his army, his chariots, and his chariot drivers. And the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord, when I have gained glory for myself over Pharaoh, his chariots, and his chariot drivers.’  Focus on Moses who is in conversation with God . . . watch him move in the direction of the sea with his staff in hand . . . see him raise it aloft . . . watch what begins to happen . . . Stay with this scene as long as you wish . . . at some point, speak with God about slavery and oppression; speak with God about liberation and justice . . . Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 20 July 2025

Today is Sunday the 20th of July, beginning the 16th week of Ordinary Time. Josh Garrels sings, ‘Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus’. Turn your eyes upon Jesus Look full in His wonderful face And the things of earth will grow strangely dim In the light of His Glory and Grace Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke. Luke 10:38-42 Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, ‘Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me.’ But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.’ Let's enter the home of Martha and Mary. The reading could draw our attention to our presence with the Lord, both in prayer and our distractions. For our prayer today, we will focus on the words of Jesus as he speaks to Martha. 'The Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things."' Think for a moment about the times when you desire or plan to be with the Lord in prayer...which things tend to distract you? Take a moment to talk with the Lord about these things. Jesus says, ‘There is only need of one thing.’ Imagine that you turn to look at Mary as she sits at the Lord’s feet, fully focused. Upon seeing this scene, notice which thoughts or feelings come to mind. Try to remain in this scene as you listen to the reading again. Luke 10:38-42 Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, ‘Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me.’ But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.’ Jesus tells Martha, ‘Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.’ Think of a time in prayer when you have been able to be fully present to the Lord. What was this like? As you come to the end of this time of prayer, you might like to offer your prayer life to the Lord, perhaps seeking the ‘better part’ or a deeper desire for him. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Saturday 19 July 2025

Welcome to the Saturday Examen. Wherever you are today, have a look around you...what do you notice? Notice the contrasts between dark and light in your space. Earlier this week, in one of our readings, we encountered God in the wilderness, as he spoke with Moses at the burning bush. Perhaps you can see this moment of prayer with the Lord as a burning bush encounter as you settle into prayer. If you are able, you might like to take off your shoes, to acknowledge this time to be ‘holy ground’. As you feel the floor or ground beneath your feet, recall with the Lord the darker moments this week such as times you felt most distant from God. Offer these dark moments to the Lord.... Now recall the times of light, when you have felt closest to God. Give thanks to the Lord for the times when you felt his presence with you... Now, a list of excerpts will be read from the readings during the week, with a little space for reflection between each reading. Try to listen with your heart, and notice what stirs within you as you hear these words: ‘Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.’ Then Jesus began to reproach the cities in which most of his deeds of power had been done, because they did not repent.  When the Lord saw that Moses had turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, ‘Moses, Moses!’ And Moses said, ‘Here I am.’  God said to Moses, ‘I am who I am.’ God said further, ‘Thus you shall say to the Israelites, “I am has sent me to you.” I tell you, something greater than the temple is here.  At the burning bush today, notice what you hear from the Lord in the light of his presence and in the silence of your heart. You might like to stay here in the presence of the Lord for a little longer today, enjoying his light and his love for you. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Friday 18 July 2025

Today is Friday the 18th of July, in the 15th week of Ordinary Time. Jon Guerra sings, ‘I See the Birds’. Can you make these words your own today? Do not be anxious about your life I heard you say to me You dress the lilies You leave the weeds The sower of the seed Am I in charge of my own mind Or is it in charge of me? I see the birds up in the air I know you feed them I know you care So won't you teach me How I mean more to you than them In times of trouble Be my help again You've held me sturdy You've led me on Through years of joy and grief So don't you leave me All on my own You know me, Lord I'm weak I see the birds up in the air I know you feed them I know you care So won't you teach me How I mean more to you than them In times of trouble Be my help again Oh, be my help again Don't you worry, child Don't you worry, child He won't leave you by yourself In times of trouble, he's your help I'm letting go of my own life I'm letting go again Be ever present Lord, won't you be my closest friend In times of trouble Be my help again Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 12:1-8 At that time Jesus went through the cornfields on the sabbath; his disciples were hungry, and they began to pluck heads of grain and to eat. When the Pharisees saw it, they said to him, ‘Look, your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the sabbath.’ He said to them, ‘Have you not read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? He entered the house of God and ate the bread of the Presence, which it was not lawful for him or his companions to eat, but only for the priests. Or have you not read in the law that on the sabbath the priests in the temple break the sabbath and yet are guiltless? I tell you, something greater than the temple is here. But if you had known what this means, “I desire mercy and not sacrifice”, you would not have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of Man is lord of the sabbath.’ Today we hear that the disciples were hungry, and even though they are with the Lord who miraculously feeds the thousands, they are hungry, so together as they walk through the cornfields, they take the edge off their hunger by plucking the heads of grain. Imagine this scene now and perhaps their relief at finding food to eat on their journey. We might recall that in Deuteronomy, the farmers were commanded by God to leave some of their harvest behind for travellers and the poor, so that they might have something to eat. Where in your life have you encountered God’s provision for you, in everyday ways or perhaps unexpected blessings? Remember and enjoy these moments, giving thanks. For the disciples, their snack is interrupted by the critical voices of the Pharisees, complaining, ‘Look, your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the sabbath.’  How does this criticism feel as it lands in a moment of grace? As you listen to the reading again, notice Jesus’s reply. Matthew 12:1-8 At that time Jesus went through the cornfields on the sabbath; his disciples were hungry, and they began to pluck heads of grain and to eat. When the Pharisees saw it, they said to him, ‘Look, your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the sabbath.’ He said to them, ‘Have you not read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? He entered the house of God and ate the bread of the Presence, which it was not lawful for him or his companions to eat, but only for the priests. Or have you not read in the law that on the sabbath the priests in the temple break the sabbath and yet are guiltless? I tell you, something greater than the temple is here. But if you had known what this means, “I desire mercy and not sacrifice”, you would not have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of Man is lord of the sabbath.’ Jesus tells the Pharisees, ‘I tell you, something greater than the temple is here.’ In the time of Jesus, the temple was regarded as the highest, most holy of holy places, so these words must have been shocking for the Pharisees. But perhaps for us, as we appreciate Jesus’s description of himself, we can take a moment to rejoice in his Holy presence... in love, wonder and joy in the Lord of the Sabbath and in all his provision. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 17 July 2025

Today is Thursday the 17th of July, in the 15th week of Ordinary Time. One Hope Project sings, ‘Abba Father’. Abba Father, breathe on me Wash me in Your glory When faith is frail You carry me In Your presence I am free Today’s reading is from the Book of Exodus. Exodus 3:13-20 But Moses said to God, ‘If I come to the Israelites and say to them, “The God of your ancestors has sent me to you”, and they ask me, “What is his name?” what shall I say to them?’ God said to Moses, ‘I am who I am.’ He said further, ‘Thus you shall say to the Israelites, “I am has sent me to you.” ’ God also said to Moses, ‘Thus you shall say to the Israelites, “The Lord, the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you”: This is my name for ever, and this my title for all generations.’ Go and assemble the elders of Israel, and say to them, “The Lord, the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, has appeared to me, saying: I have given heed to you and to what has been done to you in Egypt. I declare that I will bring you up out of the misery of Egypt, to the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites, a land flowing with milk and honey.” They will listen to your voice; and you and the elders of Israel shall go to the king of Egypt and say to him, “The Lord, the God of the Hebrews, has met with us; let us now go a three days’ journey into the wilderness, so that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God.” I know, however, that the king of Egypt will not let you go unless compelled by a mighty hand. So I will stretch out my hand and strike Egypt with all my wonders that I will perform in it; after that he will let you go.' In today’s reading we return to the burning bush and the conversation between God and Moses and God reveals his name, ‘I am who I am’. God tells Moses, ‘So tell the Israelites that I AM has sent me to you.’ We might wonder what Moses thought of this name...can you let the name ‘I AM’ reveal something to you about the nature of God? ‘Thus you shall say to the Israelites, “The Lord,[b] the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you”: ‘This is my name forever and this is my title for all generations’. Take a moment to rest in the name of I am... perhaps imagine the Lord repeating his name to you. As you listen to the second part of the reading, listen carefully to the instructions God gives to Moses, and notice what most strikes you. Go and assemble the elders of Israel, and say to them, “The Lord, the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, has appeared to me, saying: I have given heed to you and to what has been done to you in Egypt. I declare that I will bring you up out of the misery of Egypt, to the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites, a land flowing with milk and honey.” They will listen to your voice; and you and the elders of Israel shall go to the king of Egypt and say to him, “The Lord, the God of the Hebrews, has met with us; let us now go a three days’ journey into the wilderness, so that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God.” I know, however, that the king of Egypt will not let you go unless compelled by a mighty hand. So I will stretch out my hand and strike Egypt with all my wonders that I will perform in it; after that he will let you go.' ‘I have given heed to you,’ God tells Moses. God has seen the suffering of the Israelites and unfolds his rescue plan. ‘I am’ loves and cares for his people. Spend a little more time in the company of this compassionate God. Where do you long to see this God at work in our world today? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 16 July 2025

Today is Wednesday the 16th of July, in the 15th week of Ordinary Time. Ethel Oppon and Nicky Lathbridge, with Checko Ankrah sing ‘Most Holy’. Oh, most holy We exalt you We exalt you Hallelujah, hallelujah Yes, to the most high God Who is worthy of all power and all praise Hallelujah, hallelujah We give you the highest praise For You are worthy to be praised You are worthy, You are worthy We bless your name, we glorify You You are worthy of the glory, Lord Hallelujah, hallelujah What an awesome God, what a holy God you are Heaven and earth declare that you are a worthy God Hallelujah, hallelujah Today’s reading is from the Book of Exodus. Exodus 3:1-6, 9-12 Moses was keeping the flock of his father-in-law Jethro, the priest of Midian; he led his flock beyond the wilderness, and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire out of a bush; he looked, and the bush was blazing, yet it was not consumed. Then Moses said, ‘I must turn aside and look at this great sight, and see why the bush is not burned up.’ When the Lord saw that he had turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, ‘Moses, Moses!’ And he said, ‘Here I am.’ Then he said, ‘Come no closer! Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.’ He said further, ‘I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God. ‘The cry of the Israelites has now come to me; I have also seen how the Egyptians oppress them. So come, I will send you to Pharaoh to bring my people, the Israelites, out of Egypt.’ But Moses said to God, ‘Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?’ He said, ‘I will be with you; and this shall be the sign for you that it is I who sent you: when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall worship God on this mountain.’ Take a moment today to imagine that you are with Moses as he tends his flock. What is the ground like beneath your feet? ... What does the wilderness look like?... What sounds can you hear? Imagine that you are walking beside Moses and his sheep, beyond the wilderness to Horeb, the mountain of God. What would you like to say to Moses as you walk? Suddenly, you notice a strange flame coming out of a bush, but the bush doesn’t seem to be burning up...feeling curious, you approach the bush with Moses. Listen now to the voice of God calling, ‘Moses, Moses.’ And Moses’s reply, ‘Here I am.’... Can you echo these words in your heart too? Now the Lord says to Moses, 'Come no closer! Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.’  Imagine that you also remove your shoes as you stand on this holy ground with Moses. Feel your bare feet on the rough ground. Now the voice of God says, ‘I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ The reaction of Moses on hearing this is to cover his face for fear of looking at God. Take a moment to make your own response. As we approach the end of our prayer time, continue to spend the final moments of prayer in this holy place in the presence of God. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 15 July 2025

Today is Tuesday the 15th of July, the feast of Saint Bonaventure, in the 15th week of Ordinary Time. The Community of Taizé sing Kristus, din Ande: “Jesus, your Spirit in us is a wellspring of everlasting life.” Kristus, din Ande i oss är en källa med porlande vatten. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 11:20-24 Then he began to reproach the cities in which most of his deeds of power had been done, because they did not repent. ‘Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the deeds of power done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. But I tell you, on the day of judgement it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon than for you. And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? No, you will be brought down to Hades. For if the deeds of power done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. But I tell you that on the day of judgement it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom than for you.’ Our reading today may sound and feel rather desolate; ‘Woe to you...’ Jesus says to the cities that have witnessed and experienced his miraculous works yet have not repented. As you reflect on this now, try to get a sense of the emotions Jesus might have been experiencing and expressing in this moment... Spend a moment reflecting on any feelings you can identify with... perhaps frustration or anger, or other feelings you have felt, when your deeds or actions haven’t been understood. As you listen to the reading again, imagine those gathered around Jesus as they hear his reproach. What impact might his words have on them? Matthew 11:20-24 Then he began to reproach the cities in which most of his deeds of power had been done, because they did not repent. ‘Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the deeds of power done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. But I tell you, on the day of judgement it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon than for you. And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? No, you will be brought down to Hades. For if the deeds of power done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. But I tell you that on the day of judgement it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom than for you.’ As we approach the end of this time of prayer, speak to the Lord about any thoughts or feelings that have emerged for you today. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 14 July 2025

Today is Monday the 14th of July, in the 15th week of Ordinary Time. The monks of Pluscarden Abbey sing 'Venite filii, audite me'. Come, my sons and daughters, listen to me…. Come to the Lord and be enlightened; and your faces will not be put to shame.’ (Lyrics currently unavailable) Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 10:34-11:1 ‘Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and one’s foes will be members of one’s own household. Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever does not take up the cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Those who find their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it. ‘Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. Whoever welcomes a prophet in the name of a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward; and whoever welcomes a righteous person in the name of a righteous person will receive the reward of the righteous; and whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple—truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward.’ Now when Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and proclaim his message in their cities. In today’s reading, Jesus speaks about challenges in our relationships, perhaps challenges that we are reluctant to hear, or that are difficult to understand. ‘I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother.’ Can you recall times when being a follower of Jesus has driven a wedge between you and someone else in your family? Or maybe between a friend or colleague? Jesus says, ‘Whoever does not take up the cross and follow me is not worthy of me.’ As a follower of Jesus, what does it mean to you to take up your cross? Talk with the Lord about this now. As you listen to the reading again, notice what Jesus says about welcome for his followers. Matthew 10:34-11:1 ‘Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and one’s foes will be members of one’s own household. Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever does not take up the cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Those who find their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it. ‘Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. Whoever welcomes a prophet in the name of a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward; and whoever welcomes a righteous person in the name of a righteous person will receive the reward of the righteous; and whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple—truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward.’ Now when Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and proclaim his message in their cities. ‘Whoever welcomes you, welcomes me’. Try now, to call to mind a time when you’ve received a warm welcome as a Christian. What was this like? Perhaps you can picture Christ, who dwells within you, also being welcomed. Take a moment to give thanks for all those who welcome you and encourage you in your faith. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 13 July 2025

Today is Sunday the 13th of July, beginning the 15th week of Ordinary Time. Jon Guerra sings, ‘Love Your Enemies’. Give to everyone who asks of you Be good to everybody, no matter who Do to them as you would have them do to you Love your enemies No greater love is there than this I laid down My life, and I would do it again I gave it to you, so give it to them Love your enemies Love, love Love your enemies And be children of your Father in Heaven Children of your Father in Heavеn Turn the other cheek, put down your fists Give up your coat if somеone asks for it What have you got that you were not given? Give everything And when the sun sets on your labor Turning the tides, but not in your favor Love is a rescue and it'll save you For love, love Love your enemies And be children of your Father in Heaven Children of your Father in Heaven If you love those who love you, what good is it? What good is it? What good is it? If you hate those who hate you, what good is it? Well, it's no good, no good at all If you love those who love you, what good is it? What good is it? What good is it? If you gain the whole world, but lose your soul Well, it's no good, no good at all It's no good, no good at all Oh, love, love Love your enemies And be children of your Father in Heaven Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke. Luke 10:25-37 Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus. ‘Teacher,’ he said, ‘what must I do to inherit eternal life?’ He said to him, ‘What is written in the law? What do you read there?’ He answered, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbour as yourself.’ And he said to him, ‘You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live.’ But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, ‘And who is my neighbour?’ Jesus replied, ‘A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan while travelling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, “Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.” Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?’ He said, ‘The one who showed him mercy.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Go and do likewise.’ This lawyer asks a question that, as Jesus shows, he really already knows the answer to. Perhaps you know an answer to it as well. What, do you think, must you do to inherit eternal life? The question, though, prompts one of Jesus’s best-known stories, the Good Samaritan. Although you’ve no doubt heard it many times before, what caught your attention as you heard it today? If you ask Jesus here and now the key question here, “Who is my neighbour?”, what response does he give you? As the passage is read again, simply notice how the different characters in the story react to the situation that they find themselves in. But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, ‘And who is my neighbour?’ Jesus replied, ‘A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan while travelling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, “Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.” Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?’ He said, ‘The one who showed him mercy.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Go and do likewise.’ Jesus ends by saying “Go and do likewise”. At the end of this time of prayer, how do you want to respond to him? Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Saturday 12 July 2025

Welcome to the Saturday Examen. Our prayer this week has looked at a variety of people on a journey. Jesus, his apostles, Jacob and his family and, tomorrow, the Good Samaritan. Let, then, this week’s examen give you a chance to look at where you find yourself on your own journey at the moment. First, ask God to show you more clearly where you are, and how you are, at this stage of your life. If you use the familiar image of your life as an unfolding landscape, how do you see where you are just now? A serene and peaceful valley? A rocky desert? A dark wood? A high lookout in the mountains? What image first comes to mind? Whether you can recognise it or not, God has somehow brought you to this place. How do you want to respond to God about where you find yourself just now? What are the gifts that God has given you for this place in particular? How have you been using these gifts recently? What sense do you have of the next steps on this journey? Take a few moments to ask God for whatever you need as you move forward. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Friday 11 July 2025

Today is Friday the 11th of July, the feast of Saint Benedict, in the 14th week of Ordinary Time. The Cape Town Camerata sings, Ndikhokhele Bawo; ‘Lead me oh Father, lead me’. Ndikhokhele Bawo, zundikhokhele (Lead me oh Father, lead me) Ndikhokhele mmeli wami ezintsizini, Zalomhlaba Bawo (Lead me my saviour in all the sorrows of this world, Father) Bawo, Bawo, Bawo (Father, Father, Father) Bawo ndiyabonga Ngoba wena usandigcinile (Father I thank you, for you still protect me) Mmeli wami Bawo uhlal’ uhlele duzekwami (Father, Saviour, you calm my fears) Bawo ndiyabonga ngoba wena usandigcinile (Father I thank you, for you still protect me) Today’s reading is from the Book of Genesis. Genesis 46:1-7,28-30 When Israel set out on his journey with all that he had and came to Beer-sheba, he offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac. God spoke to Israel in visions of the night, and said, ‘Jacob, Jacob.’ And he said, ‘Here I am.’ Then he said, ‘I am God, the God of your father; do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make of you a great nation there. I myself will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also bring you up again; and Joseph’s own hand shall close your eyes.’ Then Jacob set out from Beer-sheba; and the sons of Israel carried their father Jacob, their little ones, and their wives, in the wagons that Pharaoh had sent to carry him. They also took their livestock and the goods that they had acquired in the land of Canaan, and they came into Egypt, Jacob and all his offspring with him, his sons, and his sons’ sons with him, his daughters, and his sons’ daughters; all his offspring he brought with him into Egypt. Israel sent Judah ahead to Joseph to lead the way before him into Goshen. When they came to the land of Goshen, Joseph made ready his chariot and went up to meet his father Israel in Goshen. He presented himself to him, fell on his neck, and wept on his neck a good while. Israel said to Joseph, ‘I can die now, having seen for myself that you are still alive.’ Earlier this week we heard the story of Jacob (who has now been re-named Israel by God) hearing God promising to be with him on his journey to the land he had been promised. Today this journey takes an unexpected turn. Jacob and his entire family are to make a long detour to Egypt. When has your own journey with God gone off in an unexpected direction? Jacob finds himself still able to respond in faith, demonstrating his trust in God. We’re not told whether this was easy or difficult for him. What does your own response to God look like when your well-made plans go astray? One result of this detour is that Jacob is reunited with his son Joseph, after he had feared that he was dead. You might recall some good outcomes which resulted from your own plans being thwarted. As the passage is read again, get a sense of what is going on in Jacob’s heart and mind as this story unfolds. Genesis 46:1-7,28-30 When Israel set out on his journey with all that he had and came to Beer-sheba, he offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac. God spoke to Israel in visions of the night, and said, ‘Jacob, Jacob.’ And he said, ‘Here I am.’ Then he said, ‘I am God, the God of your father; do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make of you a great nation there. I myself will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also bring you up again; and Joseph’s own hand shall close your eyes.’ Then Jacob set out from Beer-sheba; and the sons of Israel carried their father Jacob, their little ones, and their wives, in the wagons that Pharaoh had sent to carry him. They also took their livestock and the goods that they had acquired in the land of Canaan, and they came into Egypt, Jacob and all his offspring with him, his sons, and his sons’ sons with him, his daughters, and his sons’ daughters; all his offspring he brought with him into Egypt. Israel sent Judah ahead to Joseph to lead the way before him into Goshen. When they came to the land of Goshen, Joseph made ready his chariot and went up to meet his father Israel in Goshen. He presented himself to him, fell on his neck, and wept on his neck a good while. Israel said to Joseph, ‘I can die now, having seen for myself that you are still alive.’ Our God has been called a “God of surprises”. Speak, finally, to God about the surprises he has brought about in your own life. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Thursday 10 July 2025

Today is Thursday the 10th of July, in the 14th week of Ordinary Time. 'In our journeying this day, keep us, Father, in your way.' Can you make this your prayer today? We are all on a journey with God. You might like to pray to know God’s closeness, here, right now, and never to lose sight of it. To let yourself be loved, enlivened and guided by God. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 10:7-15 As you go, proclaim the good news, “The kingdom of heaven has come near.” Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment. Take no gold, or silver, or copper in your belts, no bag for your journey, or two tunics, or sandals, or a staff; for labourers deserve their food. Whatever town or village you enter, find out who in it is worthy, and stay there until you leave. As you enter the house, greet it. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet as you leave that house or town. Truly I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgement than for that town. This passage reflects the specific ways in which first-century apostles were to carry out their mission. In what ways is spreading the gospel today the same? In what ways is it different? “You received without payment.” You didn’t pay to become a Christian, or to know God. What difference does this make to your response to all that God calls you to? The passage assumes that an apostle will bring a sense of peace that will share itself with a worthy house. Can you recall times when you have been able to bring peace to others, or they have brought peace to you? Listen again to the ways in which Jesus wants his followers to act, and notice what most strikes you about them. Matthew 10:7-15 As you go, proclaim the good news, “The kingdom of heaven has come near.” Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment. Take no gold, or silver, or copper in your belts, no bag for your journey, or two tunics, or sandals, or a staff; for labourers deserve their food. Whatever town or village you enter, find out who in it is worthy, and stay there until you leave. As you enter the house, greet it. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet as you leave that house or town. Truly I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgement than for that town. Speak, finally to Jesus about how far (or not) you see your own life reflected in this passage. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Wednesday 9 July 2025

Today is Wednesday the 9th of July, the feast of Saint Leo Ignatius Mangin SJ, Saint Mary Zhu Wu and Companions, in the 14th week of Ordinary Time. The Kyiv Chamber Choir sing In Thy Kingdom from One Thousand Years of Ukrainian Sacred Music. (Lyrics currently unavailable) Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 10:1-7 Then Jesus summoned his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to cure every disease and every sickness. These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon, also known as Peter, and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax-collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed him. These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: ‘Go nowhere among the Gentiles, and enter no town of the Samaritans, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, proclaim the good news, “The kingdom of heaven has come near.” In this passage we are given the names of some of Jesus’s closest followers. Some are well-known to us, others hardly at all. What would it be like to hear your own name included in that list? The apostles are told to spread the good news of the gospel. They are also given the authority to do so. If you see yourself as in some way called to spread the good news of the gospel, what might it mean for you to be given authority to do so in the same way? “The kingdom of heaven has come near.” You can only give others that message if you have first heard it yourself. What convinces you that the kingdom has indeed come near? Notice, as the passage is read again, that Jesus chooses exactly who to send his apostles to. Who might you be sent to with this good news? Matthew 10:1-7 Then Jesus summoned his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to cure every disease and every sickness. These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon, also known as Peter, and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax-collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed him. These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: ‘Go nowhere among the Gentiles, and enter no town of the Samaritans, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, proclaim the good news, “The kingdom of heaven has come near.” You might like to finish this prayer by speaking to Jesus about your own sense of being called and sent. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Tuesday 8 July 2025

Today is Tuesday the 8th of July, in the 14th week of Ordinary Time. 'The Lord is my light, my hope, my salvation. In him I trust.' We rely on many things in our lives. On other people; on our wealth or our possessions; on our power, or reputation, or status; on our own ingenuity and talents. But as you enter into prayer now, can you put all those things aside for a moment, and place all your trust in God, your light, your hope, your salvation? Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 9:32-38 After they had gone away, a demoniac who was mute was brought to him. And when the demon had been cast out, the one who had been mute spoke; and the crowds were amazed and said, ‘Never has anything like this been seen in Israel.’ But the Pharisees said, ‘By the ruler of the demons he casts out the demons.’ Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and curing every disease and every sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.’ Jesus’s miracle itself at the start of this passage is described in a single sentence. The gospel-writer Matthew is more interested in how people respond to the miracle. What is your own first response to this story of a devil being cast out? In a powerful image, Jesus has compassion for those who are “harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd”. Where in your world are you aware of people like that today? Jesus’s response is to send his followers out to assist these helpless, harassed crowds. Who might he be wanting to send you out to in the same way? As the passage is read again, notice how it flows: Jesus first sees needy people; then he feels compassion, and finally he does what he can do to meet those needs, by himself and by those who are close to him. Matthew 9:32-38 After they had gone away, a demoniac who was mute was brought to him. And when the demon had been cast out, the one who had been mute spoke; and the crowds were amazed and said, ‘Never has anything like this been seen in Israel.’ But the Pharisees said, ‘By the ruler of the demons he casts out the demons.’ Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and curing every disease and every sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.’ Speak, finally, to Jesus about what you need from him to be able to respond in the ways that he calls you to. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Monday 7 July 2025

Today is Monday the 7th of July, in the 14th week of Ordinary Time. Nick Chambers sings, ‘It Is Good To Be Here With You’. As you listen, are these words you can say to God today? When you bring me up the mount, Into the brightness of the cloud Even when I cannot stay, when I don’t know what to say. It is good to be here with you, with you. When I hear the voice above “This is my Beloved Son” When I’m shaken by the sound With my face pressed to the ground It is good to be here It is good to be here with you, with you. With your touch, I hear you say, “Rise and do not be afraid” When I look it’s only you The face that I thought that I knew It is good to be here It is good to be here with you, with you. Today’s reading is from the Book of Genesis. Our scripture passage is a long one today, so we’ll reflect with it section by section, with space in between each moment. Genesis 28:10-22 Jacob left Beer-sheba and went towards Haran. He came to a certain place and stayed there for the night, because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones of the place, he put it under his head and lay down in that place. And he dreamed that there was a ladder set up on the earth, the top of it reaching to heaven; and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. And the Lord stood beside him and said, ‘I am the Lord, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac; the land on which you lie I will give to you and to your offspring; and your offspring shall be like the dust of the earth, and you shall spread abroad to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south; and all the families of the earth shall be blessed in you and in your offspring. Know that I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.’ Jacob is on a journey to the land that God had first promised to his grandfather, Abraham, and then to his father, Isaac. Now, in his dream, he hears that promise confirmed for himself. The scriptures are full of God promising to give his people good things. What are, in particular, the good things that you look to God for? Then Jacob woke from his sleep and said, ‘Surely the Lord is in this place—and I did not know it!’ And he was afraid, and said, ‘How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.’ When Jacob wakes up, he is very aware that God had been with him as he slept, and is conscious of the awesome power of God. Can you perhaps recall one or two times in your own life when you have been particularly aware of the presence of God with you? So Jacob rose early in the morning, and he took the stone that he had put under his head and set it up for a pillar and poured oil on the top of it. He called that place Bethel; but the name of the city was Luz at the first. Then Jacob made a vow, saying, ‘If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat and clothing to wear, so that I come again to my father’s house in peace, then the Lord shall be my God, and this stone, which I have set up for a pillar, shall be God’s house; and of all that you give me I will surely give one-tenth to you.’ Jacob’s response to becoming more aware of God’s presence, and of his promises, is to do something. He builds an altar and names the place to commemorate his experience. As you yourself become more aware of a generous God with you today, what might you want to do in response? As this prayer comes to an end, speak to God about what you have seen and felt as freely as Jacob does here. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Sunday 6 July 2025

Today is Sunday the 6th of July, beginning the 14th week of Ordinary Time. IAMSON, with Jessica Fox and Paul Zach sings, ‘Lead Me, Guide Me.’ I am weak, and I need your strength and power To help me o’er my weakest hour; Help me through the darkness Thy face to see, Lead me, O Lord, lead me. Lead me, guide me along the way; Lord, if You lead me, I will not stray; Lord, let me walk each day with Thee. Lead me, O Lord, lead me. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Luke. Luke 10:1-9 After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. He said to them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest. Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, “Peace to this house!” And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the labourer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; cure the sick who are there, and say to them, “The kingdom of God has come near to you.” Have you ever travelled a long distance with another person whom you didn’t necessarily know well? What did you talk about? You might have covered a lot of ground - in your conversation as well as in miles. Jesus gives very specific instructions to these pairs. What do you particularly notice about what he says? Imagine you were given this job to do. Imagine who might be your travelling companion. Listen to the passage again. Notice how you react to each of Jesus’ instructions. Luke 10:1-9 After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. He said to them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest. Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, “Peace to this house!” And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the labourer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; cure the sick who are there, and say to them, “The kingdom of God has come near to you.” Perhaps you’re already in this kind of work. Perhaps you’re exploring the possibility that you might be. Or you’re supporting someone who is. What do you need? Ask God for help, for the grace to represent Him well... For the grace to represent Him well. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Saturday 5 July 2025

Welcome to the Saturday Examen. Take a few slow, deep breaths. If you’re able, you might like to stand, kneel or simply remain seated. Let God look at you. Just as you are. Let your shoulders fall, your knees soften, your arms hang gently by your sides, your head loll a little, then come to rest Be calm, be still, come to rest. Ask God to throw light on this time of prayer, as you look back over your week. Think of the Jesus you have come across this week: who calms storms, who befriends the imperfect, who invites the doubting into conversation, whose heart goes out to the rejected …..who challenges and sometimes makes tough demands. In God’s presence, recall any moment or moments that have brought you joy or peace. Remember that they might even have been while you were in pain. Allow those moments of consolation to filter through your mind and body again. Give thanks to God. Was there a time - an attitude or a conversation, perhaps - which you regret? Bring it to God. What grace do you need for the coming days? To show patience, perhaps, or greater kindness. Christlikeness. You can ask God for that now. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen

Friday 4 July 2025

Today is Friday the 4th of July, in the 13th week of Ordinary Time. Liz Vice with Good Shepherd Collective sings ‘Amazing Grace’ Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now am found, was blind, but now I see. 'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, and grace my fears relieved; how precious did that grace appear the hour I first believed! I once was lost, but now am found, I once was blind, but now I see. Through many dangers, toils and snares We have already come: 'tis grace has brought us safe thus far, and grace will lead us home. We once were lost, but now we're found, We once were blind, but now we see. When we’ve been there ten thousand years, Bright shining as the sun, We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise Than when we first begun. Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 9:9-13 As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth; and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he got up and followed him. And as he sat at dinner in the house, many tax-collectors and sinners came and were sitting with him and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, ‘Why does your teacher eat with tax-collectors and sinners?’ But when he heard this, he said, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.’ Look at the people round the table. Study their facial expressions, their gestures, how they are dressed. Listen to their conversations. Watch how Jesus joins the dinner table. Notice where he sits. How he engages. Smell the food, take in the colours and textures. Hear the critical voices of the Pharisees. Hear Jesus’ response. Listen to the passage again. Where would you be at the party? Place yourself in the scene. Immerse yourself in it. Notice how you feel. Matthew 9:9-13 As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth; and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he got up and followed him. And as he sat at dinner in the house, many tax-collectors and sinners came and were sitting with him and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, ‘Why does your teacher eat with tax-collectors and sinners?’ But when he heard this, he said, ‘Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.’ Speak with Jesus about your response. Be direct. Ask questions. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end Amen