10/31/2024
Jesus Christ : 31th October Prayer : Here's a breakdown of today's readings, psalm, gospel, and reflection for the Feast of Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles:
First Reading (Ephesians 2:19-22)
- Saint Paul emphasizes the unity of believers in Christ.
- We are no longer strangers but fellow citizens with the saints and members of God's household.
- The foundation of this household is the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the cornerstone.
- We are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
Psalm (Psalm 19:2-3, 4-5)
- Response: "Their message goes out through all the earth."
- The psalmist describes how creation declares God's glory.
- The heavens, firmament, day, and night all proclaim God's handiwork.
- God's message resounds throughout the earth.
Gospel (Luke 6:12-16)
- Jesus prays all night before choosing twelve apostles.
- The apostles include Simon (Peter), Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James (son of Alphaeus), Simon (the Zealot), Judas (son of James), and Judas Iscariot.
- These apostles will spread Jesus' message and establish His Church.
Reflection
Today, we honor Saints Simon and Jude, apostles of Jesus Christ.
- Despite limited knowledge about Saint Simon, we recognize his dedication.
- Saint Jude's brief epistle contains strong doctrine, as noted by Origen.
- The psalm highlights the power of actions speaking louder than words.
- Paul's letter emphasizes the apostles' role in building the Church, founded on Jesus.
Message
Proclaim Jesus through your actions, not just words. Follow the examples of Saints Simon and Jude:
1. Build your life on Jesus, the cornerstone.
2. Let your actions declare God's glory.
3. Be a messenger of God's love and truth.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the examples of Saints Simon and Jude.
Help us build our lives on Jesus, the cornerstone.
May our actions proclaim Your glory and love.
Grant us the courage to spread Your message.
Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen.
Intercessions
- May our actions reflect God's love and truth.
- Guide us to build our lives on Jesus, the cornerstone.
- Inspire us to proclaim the Gospel through our lives.
May Saints Simon and Jude intercede for us, and may their examples inspire us to live as faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.