MONDAY (September 7, 2020)
In the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel Sentence
“…where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”” (Matthew 18:20)
Reading
“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment. For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God’s servant for your good.” (Romans 13:1–4)
Meditation
When St. Paul wrote these words in Romans, it is likely that the Roman Emperor at the time was Nero. Nero, the Emperor who murdered Christians for sport and would literally light them up like torches in the night. It is that authority which Paul says comes from God. Even if the authority is abused, that does not change that it is from God. God operates according to the Law in the world, and sets up His rule through earthly rulers. Sin may mess that up, but God is very good at working through imperfect means.
Silence
Prayer for Holy Cross Member
Heavenly Father, bless Carol with faith in you and fervent love toward all those who cross her path this day. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Prayer of the Week (from Sunday)
O God, from whom all good proceeds, grant to us, Your humble servants, Your holy inspiration, that we may set our minds on the things that are right and, by Your merciful guiding, accomplish them; 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