Jesus uses the image of a mustard seed (the tiniest of seeds) to teach us that the smallest sacrifices, good deeds, and acts of faith will, with God’s grace, multiply in ways we cannot imagine. With that assurance, there is nothing “too small” or insignificant you will do today.

We are to love God with “all” our heart, soul, and strength. Is there anything keeping you from loving God unreservedly? We are to love our neighbor as ourself. Is there anyone in need of your forgiveness or outreach? Also remember: God loves you!

Sometimes we do not see the immediate and visible results of the seeds we plant. Jesus calls us to be patient and to persevere. He assures us that our faithful witness, sacrifices, and good deeds will never be in vain. With his grace, they will bear much fruit. So, keep planting!

God has given you a unique vocation and St. Paul conveys how to respond: “Live in a manner worthy of the call you have received with all humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another through love.” Your “yes” to God’s call is a special gift to all who know you!

As citizen’s, we are expected to contribute to the building of a strong and just society. Yet, Jesus teaches that no earthly duty or expectation is to take priority over our allegiance to the Lord and his commands. We are not just citizens-we are called to be faithful citizens!

Jesus calls us to practice integrity and to avoid hypocrisy. In our daily examination of conscience, we must ask if we are who we proclaim to be, whether convenient or inconvenient, whether others are watching or not. Our ultimate goal is to be found pleasing in the sight of God.

St. Paul says: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” Pause and reflect on the extent to which your life reflects to others the fruit of the Spirit. Promise to make the changes that are necessary.

Jesus wants us to shift our focus from our external appearance to our interior lives. Spend more time today looking deep within to make sure your soul is cleansed from sin and your heart is pure and burning with love. Work on the beauty that really matters!

Jesus invites us to be free and not enslaved to sin, vices, destructive behaviors, and the old way of living. When we rely on his grace and saving power and follow his commands and teachings, we are transformed and life changes for the better. In Jesus, we are truly free!

When you are overwhelmed and distressed, pray for the grace to have the conviction of St. Paul: “I can do all things in him who strengthens me.” We find that strength in prayer, the Lord’s Word, and the Sacraments. Never doubt that with God all things are possible.

Jesus says: “Blessed are those who hear the Word of God and observe it.” That may require us to separate ourselves from the crowd; to face opposition; to endure rejection; and to take up our cross. Yet, it is all worth it in knowing that we will be counted among the “blessed.”

Jesus loves us too much to allow us to stand in the middle; to be lukewarm; or to be passive. He says: “Whoever is not with me, is against me.” Promise, with God’s grace, to love and serve the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. “Be all-in!”

When we pray, Jesus urges us “to ask, to seek, and to knock.” When we do so in faith, there is no unanswered prayer. Our Heavenly Father, out of love for us, will always respond by giving us not necessarily what we desire - but what we truly need. So, persevere in prayer.