June 14, 2013

Looking vs. Facing

Daily Mass Readings for Friday of the 10th Week of Ordinary Time


“I kept faith, even when I said, ‘I am greatly afflicted!’” (Psalm 116:10)

The Psalm from the Scriptures at today's Mass is good news. Today’s Psalm 110 starts off with words that may be familiar to you as the Psalmist exclaims that he is “greatly afflicted”. However, throughout the affliction the author exclaims that he has kept faith even in the affliction. The author of today’s Psalm is struggling in life, “greatly afflicted”. However, he is also praising the Lord for God’s presence in the affliction.

Life is a lot less about what you’re facing and more about where you’re looking. You can be facing a dark valley; however, are you looking at the darkness or are you looking at God who is with you in the darkness? You and I will struggle; struggle is a part of life. However, no matter what you’re facing right now our Faith tells us that God is with us. And, if God is with us then we need to keeping looking at Him no matter what circumstances we’re facing.

Where are you struggling today? More importantly, are you looking at the struggle or are you looking at God with you in the struggle. Be not afraid, keep your eyes on God. After all … He’s always looking at you.

© Fr. Mark Toups, 2013

Today @ IPF:

The 169 seminarians in the Seminarians Summer Program are in two classes.

In their first class, 502: Celibacy and Sexuality, the men will learn more about the difference between healthy and unhealthy guilt, as well the influence of shame to receptivity. In their second class, 503: Spirituality of Diocesan Priesthood, the men will be challenged to accept personal responsibility for their formation toward priestly life.

Back home in Louisiana today. Will be at Christ the Redeemer this weekend. Looking forward to seeing y'all.

Today's Quote from B16:

“What does it mean to love Christ? It means trusting him even in times of trial, following him faithfully even on the Via Crucis, in the hope that soon, the morning of the Resurrection will come.”
- Homily, Pastoral Visit to Poland, Warsaw, Poland, May 26, 2006