Discover how joy in our relationship with God can inspire us, even amid life's challenges. Reflect on the love and kinship we share as children of God.
Today's Gospel: Mark 12:35-37
Have you ever been so happy that you just burst into song? Maybe you were driving along on the way to vacation and the beautiful blue sky and the anticipation you felt had you bebopping. Maybe you were on your way back from visiting a newborn niece or nephew or grandchild and the warmth you felt in your heart just overwhelmed you. Maybe you were within a moment of quiet prayer and the love you felt in the depth of your heart inspired you to praise.
I can imagine Paul feeling much this way as he traveled along preaching and teaching. Even though he suffered so many persecutions and sufferings, he could be joyful because “from all these things the Lord delivered [him].” He does not claim that life will be a bowl of cherries for those who “live religiously in Christ Jesus.” Quite the opposite. He clearly states that we will be persecuted. Yet we can also find joy knowing that by remaining “faithful to what [we] had learned and believed” we will be “equipped for every good work.”
We also can find joy in the truths of today’s Gospel. Although it appears to be a maze of words regarding kinship between David and Jesus, it is a great reminder that we are sons and daughters of God. We are relatives of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! What great love He has for us to invite us into the intimacy of His family! Just as the crowds heard the words of Jesus with delight, may we also delight in Him. Who knows, we may even find ourselves bursting into song.
Ponder:
What things bring you great joy? Are they of God?
Pray:
Lord Jesus, I praise You for the joy You bring to my life by simply knowing I am Your child. May no hardship make me waver from this truth.
Pray Together:
The next time you are in the car with your family, put on some praise and worship music and sing along.
Copyright 2026 Tami Urcia
About the Author
.png?width=1806&height=731&name=CatholicMom_hcfm_logo1_pos_871c_2728c%20(002).png "CatholicMom_hcfm_logo1_pos_871c_2728c (002)"){kind=logo}
Comments