This Week’s Gospel message for Sunday, February 18th is from Mark 1:12-15.
The Spirit drove Jesus out into the desert, and he remained in the desert for forty days, tempted by Satan. He was among wild beasts, and the angels ministered to him. After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God: “This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.”
Reflection
“Mark mentions that Jesus ‘was among wild beasts, and the angels ministered to him.’ We too may find ourselves beset by ‘wild beasts’ within and without as we try to resist temptations. Let us look to the angels in our lives who care for us, who offer their occasional assistance when we need it or their constant support throughout our trials. Better yet, make us angels who minister to others when they undergo difficulties or trauma and feel deserted and in need.” SOURCE: Pastoral Patterns, Spring 2024.
DAILY READINGS FOR THE WEEK
Monday Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18; Matthew 25:31-46
Tuesday Isaiah 55:10-11; Matthew 6:7-15
Wednesday Jonah 3:1-10; Luke 11:29-32
Thursday 1 Peter 5:1-4; Matthew 16:13-19
The Chair of Saint Peter the Apostle (Feast) – On this day, early Roman Christians celebrated a feast in honor of their departed loved ones, including their beloved predecessors in the faith, Peter and Paul. When, in the fourth century, the feast of these two saints was moved to June 29, this day in February focused on celebrating Peter and his successors as bishops of Rome and expressing gratitude for their service.
Friday Ezekiel 18:21-28; Matthew 5:20-26
Saturday Deuteronomy 26:16-19; Matthew 5:43-48