WEDNESDAY (August 5, 2020)
In the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel Sentence
“Incline your ear, and come to me; hear, that your soul may live;” (Isaiah 55:3)
Reading
“Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a desolate place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick.” (Matthew 14:13–14)
Meditation
Jesus has just heard the news of the beheading of his cousin, John the Baptist. He withdraws to a desolate, quiet place in which to rest and pray. But the news of Jesus’ compassion and mercy has spread from town to town. The crowds can’t get enough of Jesus. They clamor after His mercy and healing. Their desire for His touch overrides any fear they might have of being seen with Him. Jesus, in seeing the great crowd, does what Jesus does—He has compassion on them. He heals them. He gives of His mercy to bring healing to those in need. Jesus, the great physician of body and soul, heals us too. He heals our wounds by making them His own. He heals our hurts and disappointments, giving us hope for another day. He generously lavishes us with compassion and mercy.
Silence
Prayer for Holy Cross Member
Be with Darrian this day, O Lord, and show her your great love throughout all the days of her life. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Prayer of the Week (from Sunday)
Heavenly Father, though we do not deserve Your goodness, still You provide for all our needs of body and soul. Grant us Your Holy Spirit that we may acknowledge Your gifts, give thanks for all Your benefits, and serve You in willing obedience; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Lord’s Prayer