Mon., February 20, 2017
Sirach 1:1-10; Mark 9:14-29
He said to them, “This kind can only come out through prayer.” – Mk 9:29
The disciples needed the power of Jesus to drive out the evil spirit in today’s Gospel. What evil do I need to drive out of my life? Have I asked Jesus to help me drive it out?
Lord, only through your help can I remove evil from my life. Grant me the grace to confront evil within me and the strength, with your help, to drive it from me.
Tues., February 21, 2017
Sir 2:1-11; Mk 9:30-37
Then he sat down, called the Twelve, and said to them, “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” – Mk 9:35
Jesus teaches about humility and service. In what ways am I called to serve?
Lord, I know I am called to be of service to my neighbor. Help me to identify those areas where I can be of most service and grant me the courage to step out and offer that service in your name. By helping my neighbor I help myself.
Wed., February 22, 2017
Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter, Apostle
1 Peter 5:1-4; Matthew 16:13-19
He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” – Mt 16:15
Jesus wanted to know who people thought he was. Who is Jesus to me?
Lord, I know so much about you, but there are times I forget who you are to me. Help me to understand just how you operate in my life and to see who you are in my everyday existence.
Thurs., February 23, 2017
St. Polycarp, bishop & martyr
Sirach 5:1-8; Mark 9:41-50
“Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe [in me] to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were put around his neck and he were thrown into the sea.” – Mk 9:41
What do I need to change in my life to bring me away from sin and closer to Jesus?
Lord, grant me the grace to see what needs to be changed and the strength to make those changes. Keep me away from any occasion of sin. Never let me stray from you.
Fri., February 24, 2017
Sirach 6: 5-17; Mark 10: 1-12
He said to them in reply, “What did Moses command you?” – Mk 10:3
Jesus answers the Pharisees’ question by referring them to the words of his father found in the Hebrew Testament. What answers to my own questions can I find in Scripture? Do I spend enough time searching for those answers?
Lord, help me to find what I need through Scripture. Grant me the strength to seek those answers in your word.
Catholic Prayer Life 
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