Join Msgr. Don Fischer as he reads and delivers a short reflection on today’s gospel, followed by 3 1/2 minutes of contemplative music and a closing prayer. Msgr. Don hopes that today’s reflection on the gospel will empower you to carry the Word in your heart throughout the day.

Choose either the video or audio below.

Gospel
Matthew (Portion of) 6:7-8

Jesus said to his disciples:
"In praying, do not babble like the pagans,
who think that they will be heard because of their many words.
Do not be like them.
Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

Reflection

This is such an interesting image of prayer. In many ways we pray to tell God about a situation that we think is too busy to pay attention to. And we bring it up to him and say, There's a need here. There's a need here, and God is just perplexed by that. I think in a sense, knowing I know the need you have and I know the answer to that need.

So instead of spending most of our time and asking God while we're praying for things. Take time to listen. Listen to what he's saying, listen to the answer that will be the key to taking care of the need. That's his promise. That's who he is.

The Closing Prayer

Father, convince us of your attention and also your intention. You know what we're going through. And you long for us to use it in a way that brings life to us and those around us. Help us to trust in you. And most especially, to listen to you. And we ask this. In Jesus name, Amen.

Reflections Archives