Yes Lord I recall my arrogance, irreverence and selfishness. If anyone asked me to rank the importance of things or people in my life, I would always be quick to say God, family, friends, others then me. But the way I led my life was contrary to my declaration.
Forgive me my loving Father but You were often missing from my mind in anything and everything I did, lest there was a crisis. Never mind strangers, I was equally selfish if not more so to my family members. And if I did anything for a friend, it was likely that I would be hoping for a favour to be returned some day.
I was indeed lacking in love and charity. “Why can’t you get it yourself?” or “Can’t you ask someone else who has more time?” “Do you think money grows on trees?” I might say from time to time. Still I might give a little reluctantly if they nagged me enough.
With a grateful heart, I give You thanks and praise loving and ever generous Father. For You have shown me such great love and generosity that I cannot do any less for my brethren. You have taught and shown me that in giving generously, wholly of oneself, and with no expectations; there is much spiritual growth and rewards.
Oh what Blessed assurance You give me, that all my prayers will be answered according to Your Will and Your love for me! And so even if the answer to my prayer is No, I will give You thanks and praise. Amen
FIRST READING
Malachi 3:13–20b
GOSPEL
Luke 11:5–13
Jesus said to his disciples:
“Suppose one of you has a friend to whom he goes at midnight and says, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, for a friend of mine has arrived at my house from a journey and I have nothing to offer him,’ and he says in reply from within, ‘Do not bother me; the door has already been locked and my children and I are already in bed. I cannot get up to give you anything.’ I tell you, if he does not get up to give him the loaves because of their friendship, he will get up to give him whatever he needs because of his persistence.
“And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. What father among you would hand his son a snake when he asks for a fish? Or hand him a scorpion when he asks for an egg? If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?”
CatholicJules.net 