Daily Gospel Reflection for March 17, 2025

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Luke 6:36-38

You may be surprised to hear Patrick was born in Britain to a Roman family, yet the people of Ireland consider Patrick their patron saint.

I read the Gospel and prayed about how I could include St. Patrick. Then it came to me. Patrick was judged, persecuted, condemned, and enslaved. Did Patrick lash out in anger? On the contrary, he was merciful. He eventually escaped, returning to his family.

Most of us would have vowed never to step foot in Ireland again, but not Patrick. Patrick heard God's call to return through a dream and obeyed. His return to Ireland was his way of forgiving the people who had harmed him. Patrick used his gifts, in good measure packed down, shaken together, and overflowing, to bless the people of Ireland. He taught them the faith, got rid of all the snakes in the land, and found a way to use the shamrock in explaining the Trinity. His legacy is passed down from generation to generation. Patrick’s words and his life made a difference in this world. That is why we call him St. Patrick.

Sometimes, life is just not fair. You do all you can to follow in Christ's footsteps, but instead of welcoming hearts, unkind words are spoken. These words hurt you right in the center of your heart. Just when you are ready to give up, you read the story of St. Patrick.

You lead with mercy and forgiveness. You pray for those who hate you. You put on the shoes that spread the Good News of peace. You walk in the love of Christ. You discover the meaning of God’s amazing grace. You decide you want to be a saint and teach your children to do the same.

Ponder:

Do you want to be a saint?

Pray:

Dear Jesus, give us a burning desire in our hearts to be holy. May we follow in Your footsteps, model the lives of the saints, and trust in Your amazing grace. Apart from You, we can do nothing!

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