featured image

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


Reflection by Emily Davis

Today's Gospel: Matthew 28:16-20

Jesus called twelve men from Galilee to leave their lives behind and follow Him. When His earthly life came to an end, and He was about to ascend to heaven to be with God the Father, Jesus told the eleven who remained,

“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”

The disciples were not the wealthy, educated, influencers of today, and it was now up to them, through God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, to teach all of humanity about Christianity, about Jesus. We all know the plan worked and is working still, but imagine how they may have felt and how hard they worked, whilst grieving this God-man they loved so. Our beloved disciples are the original Catholic missionaries.

Years ago, a very seasoned religious educator told us catechists-in-training that it was not enough to teach students about Jesus; we had to make sure they encountered Jesus. And I know that if you are open to that concept, God will work in you to do just that.

In Italy, I have walked where Paul walked (according to the tour guides). I have visited many tombs of many great saints. I have never felt closer to our Church and our Lord. I have never more clearly understood my mission as a wife, mother, parent, teacher, friend, human.

Moms, parents, teachers – we are disciples first. Always learning more about our faith, we strive to raise little saints. We start at home. It’s an absolute privilege, isn’t it? Well done, good and faithful servants! God is with you.

 

Ponder:

 

Do I understand and act daily on the call to discipleship from Jesus? Does my commitment to Jesus shape myself and everyone I encounter?

 

Pray:


Dear Lord, on days when life is angst-filled or chaotic, please let me always redirect my thoughts to You and the saints before me. Thank You for showing me that my efforts have worked with my own children and others.

 


Click to tweet:
We must be disciples first. Always learning more about our faith, we strive to raise little saints. We start at home. It’s an absolute privilege, isn’t it? Well done, good and faithful servants!
#DailyGospel

 

Daily Gospel 4


Copyright 2024 Emily Davis

Emily “LadyEm” Davis is -- Catholic. Texan. Wife. Mama. Grandma. Crafter. Volunteer. CCD Teacher. Writer. Faith Influencer. Emily and her husband, Marque, moved to the Naples, Italy, area in August 2018, where he works in support of the Navy/DoD. Having recently entered her 60s whilst navigating being an empty nester, Emily is working to re-enter the workforce. The Davises adopted two puppies to fill the empty nest and miss their family, especially their children and grandchildren, dearly. Please stop by her blog: Our Home, Mary’s Mantle.