CHRISTIANS HAVE MORE THAN NINE LIVES
“Let us destroy the tree in its vigor; let us cut him off from the land of the living.” —Jeremiah 11:19
Mass Readings: April 1
First: Acts 3:11-26;Resp: Psalm 8:2,5-9; Gospel: Luke 24:35-48
The Lord informed Jeremiah (Jer 11:18) “of the evil done by the house of Israel and by the house of Judah” (Jer 11:17). Yet Jeremiah did not realize “that they were hatching plots against” him (Jer 11:19). Like Jeremiah, we know we live in a culture of death. We know that sin is not only committed but glorified. We even know that we have enemies and persecutors. Nonetheless, do we realize that the devil is “prowling like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour”? (1 Pt 5:8) But for the grace of God, we could be killed today. As “children of God beyond reproach in the midst of a twisted and depraved generation” (Phil 2:15), we are in extreme danger. If we only knew the thousands of times the Lord in His mercy has saved each of our lives, we would give our lives totally to Him and thank Him forever!
How shall we “make a return to the Lord for all the good He has done” for us? (Ps 116:12) Thank God for the gifts of life, His loving protection, victory over the evil one, peace, and eternal life. Worship the Lord in Spirit and truth (Jn 4:24). Tell everyone about the Lord. Rejoice in Him always (Phil 4:4). “Should anyone ask you the reason for this hope of yours, be ever ready to reply” (1 Pt 3:15). The Lord has repeatedly saved your life and given you eternal life. Live for love of Jesus.
Prayer: Father, “though a thousand fall” at my side, ten thousand at my right side, near me “it shall not come” (Ps 91:7).
Promise: “No man ever spoke like that before.” —Jn 7:46
Praise: Steve woke up, unharmed, after falling asleep while driving. Deeply moved, he thanked God and renewed His commitment to Jesus.
