Mon., July 11, 2016
St. Benedict, abbot
Isaiah 1:10-17; Matthew 10:34 – 11:1
Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. – Mt 10:39
Jesus indicates that to follow him we must be prepared to surrender everything. Am I will to leave everything behind to follow Jesus?
Lord, it is a hard thing that you ask, but I am willing to obey in order to follow you. Grant me the wisdom to know what I must surrender and the courage to surrender whatever is necessary to follow you completely.
Tues., July 12, 2016
Isaiah 7:1-9; Matthew 11:20-24
Then he began to reproach the towns where most of his mighty deeds had been done, since they had not repented. – Matthew 11:20
When was the last time that I experienced a conversion and repented?
Lord, you have gifted me with my faith and blessed me in many ways. Sometimes I take these blessings for granted. Help me to turn away from old habits and turn back to you. Help me to be grateful every day for your love and your presence in my life.
Wed., July 13, 2016
Isaiah 10:5-7, 13b-16; Matthew 11:25-27
At that time Jesus said in reply, “I give praise to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike.” – Mt 11:25
How can I be more aware of Jesus’ gifts and teachings?
Lord, I am not always open to the gifts you offer to me. Grant me the wisdom to understand what you are offering and the courage to accept your gifts regardless of the consequences. Help me to be more childlike.
Thurs., July 14, 2016
Isaiah 26:7-9, 12, 16-19; Matthew 11:28-30
“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. – Matthew 11:28
Do I turn to Jesus for help when I feel burdened in this life?
Lord, you are always present, but there are times when I forget to turn to you for help. Grant me the strength to always remember to turn to you regardless of what is going on in my life. You are always there – never let me forget that fact.
Fri., July 15, 2016
Isaiah 38:1-6, 21-22, 7-8; Matthew 12:1-8
If you knew what this meant, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice, you would not have condemned these innocent men. For the Son of Man is Lord of the sabbath.’ – Matthew 12:7-8
When have laws made by man come between Jesus and me?
Lord, I try to obey all the rules. But there are times that if I follow a rule I will not be able to serve you as I should. Help me to be stronger than the rule and to recognize that serving you is far greater than serving the rules of man.
Catholic Prayer Life 
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