Praise and glory to you, God our loving Father; thank you for another week thank you for this brand new day thank you for this gift of life and thank you for reassuring us of your love and saving presence.
Then he said: "I am God, The God of your father. Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for there I will make you a great nation. Not only will I go down to Egypt with you; I will also bring you back here, after Joseph has closed your eyes." (Genesis 46:3-4)
Many among us, dear Lord are like Jacob moving to Egypt: lives are disrupted routines are broken due to sickness and other trials in life; assure them too of your presence and please, bring them back home safe and well.
Keep us faithful to you, Father. When trials and difficulties come, we are always shaken and tempted to find the easy way out; worst is when things become unbearable, we plead to you for an end of sufferings without realizing that is when you are closest to us in your Son Jesus Christ.
Jesus said to his Apostles: "Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves. You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved."
Please grant us the wisdom and humility to live our lives in true freedom to you, dear God; to let go of our false securities and comfort zones, the "agere contra" according to St. Ignatius of Loyola so we may grow truly in you who has the final say on everything. Amen.
