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

Today's Gospel: John 13:16-20

Sometimes being a humble servant of the Lord can take on the characteristic of being open to accepting what is going to land hard — and the unexpected grace that accompanies it.

I’m one of those folks who, when something bad is coming my way, I want to know what is about to occur. This grew from childhood; I never knew what was going to happen next.

With health complications, my ability to maintain independence is becoming severely compromised. I know what is coming and I lean more into God’s graces through some of the longest days.

What I love is when God gets fancy addressing my needs.

He has placed in my path a delightful, compassionate woman — a scientist and laser artist with some lovely colorful tattoos — who is as opposite from me in faith as I could have ever imagined.

Early on as our friendship was blossoming, I shared my faith over dinner. She replied with sweet sincerity, “It’s not my 'jam' but I care about you.” This truly virtuous woman checks on me at the studio, helps wherever there is need, brings me the occasional treat, and is willing to sit and visit with me … a woman several years her senior.

I love my new friend and others at the studios who share in loving relationships from non-Christian foundations. I thank the Lord for keeping me open to surprises and allowing me to be purposeful as I age by being a small presence of Christ.

 

Ponder:

I read several years ago that we will never look into the eyes of someone whom God doesn’t love. When you meet someone very different from yourself, are you willing to be the humble servant and see them through the eyes of the Master? Are you open to accepting the unusual graces that God sends in difficult times?

 

Pray:

Heavenly Father, help me to live not only in humble service but also with humble acceptance, as best I can, as an example of Jesus. Let me remain open to seeing You in the eyes of all I meet and open to accepting Your grace in whatever surprising form it takes.

Daily Gospel 2

 

Copyright 2025 Margaret Rose Realy, Obl. OSB

 

About the Author

Margaret Rose Realy, Obl. OSB

Margaret Rose Realy, Obl. OSB

Margaret Rose Realy, Obl. OSB lives an eremitic life and authored A Garden Catechism, A Catholic Gardener’s Spiritual Almanac,  A Garden of Visible Prayer: Creating a Personal Sacred Space One Step at a Time, and  Cultivating God’s Garden through Lent. An award-winning author, Margaret has a master’s degree in communications, is a Certified Greenhouse Grower, Master Gardener, liturgical garden consultant, and workshop/retreat leader.