Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord, sometimes I feel vulnerable before you.  You do read my heart.  You read everyone’s heart.  It probably concerns you that we get so caught up in externals and gathering things to heighten our self-worth.  Our hearts are so divided.  You ask purity and simplicity of heart.  I need your help.  Give me the wisdom to use well the gifts, resources, and challenges you have given me so that my ability to work for your reign might be heightened.  Trust me with more –  I  will respond, by your grace.  Stretch my stewardship so that I might be worthy to embrace even more in Your eternal Presence.  Teach my confused heart what is really important.  Like St. Paul, I am grateful for so many people who have welcomed, hosted, and lavished me with attention, love, and challenge.  You work wonderfully through them, as you worked through the women who were so helpful to Paul.  Jesus, you had special women who touched your spirit and anointed you with love.  Thank you for the special women and men who anoint my soul with your love.