TEACH ME, LORD
St. James warns that we, too, must be on
guard against temptation. For temptations do not come from God, but from within
ourselves.
In today's Responsorial Psalm we
acclaim, "Blessed the man You instruct, O Lord" (Ps 94:12a). Teach me
through Your presence, Your word and Your grace. May we see things as You see
them. May we value what You value and reject what You reject. Teach us, Lord.
Teach us day by day; teach us throughout our life so that we may grow in a
deeper understanding of ourselves, of life, and of You. And, may the light of
our minds illuminate the path that leads to You.
The Apostles were confused by the words
of Jesus in today's Gospel of Mark, and maybe we are, too. He told them to be
on guard against the leaven of Herod and the Pharisees. Jesus speaks of leaven,
illustrating it as a symbol of corruption. The Apostles thought He was
referring to bread, but Jesus is clearly warning them that they must be alert
and attentive, lest they fall into the wrongful influence of others.
In today's Letter, St. James says much
of the same thing. He warns that we, too, must be on guard against temptation.
For temptations do not come from God, but from within ourselves. Where do we
get the strength to overcome temptations? How do we receive the strength that
comes from God as surely as our daily bread comes from God? The main source of
our strength is the Eucharist. Although God offers His help to us through many
means, such as prayers and devotions, nothing can substitute for the power of
the Holy Eucharist.
May we fully open ourselves to receiving
the benefits of this spiritual food. First, may we be humble enough to know we
need Jesus in our lives. Secondly, may we have a solid faith. Lastly, may we
tell God that we are willing and eager to respond to the grace that He gives
us.
"Teach me, Lord, Your
ways!"