God has an appointed time to fulfill the visions, dreams, and desires in your heart. Just because it has taken a long time or because you've tried and failed doesn't mean it's not going to happen. Don't give up on those dreams!

Monday in the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time

1 Kings 17:1-6

Psalm 121:1bc-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8

M atthew 5:1-12 Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down his disciples came to him. (2) And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: (3) "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (4) "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. (5) "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. (6) "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. (7) "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. (8) "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. (9) "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. (10) "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (11) "Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. (12) Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven

Meditation by Mike Chenney

T his is a world full of challenge. I am often frustrated reflecting on how I respond. Last week I saw a program on television showing how people react when they see others placed in difficult positions. I realized how often I would have stayed out of other people’s business.

This is the opposite of what today’s Gospel asks. We are called to take responsibility for our fellow human beings. Even more, we are called to recognize that the reward system which the Gospel suggests is opposed to that of our materialistic world.

With getting our oldest son settled in a new city and school fees looming on the horizon for our youngest son, we are being rather careful with what we spend. These are the moments when our giving is tested. I must admit being more protective with funds than what is called for in the Gospel.

My oldest son is now trying to make it on his own. I realized that in many ways he has much greater faith than I do. He is starting a career in service, working in an urban public school. By comparison, he has much greater financial challenges facing him than I do.

The first reading and psalm advocate trust in the Lord. I am realizing how much easier this was, when there were back-up resources. The Gospel clearly shows God’s favor for those acting in spite of their weaknesses.

Our Lord loves us in our weakness. Perhaps this is not so strange. I think of the moments that have brought me closest to others. Many have involved loving someone in his or her moment of difficulty and challenge.

I pray today for the strength to trust. I pray for the love and grace to be willing to serve in the many ways in which I am called.

Dear Lord, You are the source of all things. Help me to see that the things of the world are there not to be guarded but to be cherished. Help me to see the Beatitudes as a sign of Your care for humanity, and a call for us to respond accordingly.

Supplementary Reading

Your Appointed Time

For the vision is yet for an appointed time…though it tarries, wait for it - Habakkuk 2:3

G od has an appointed time to fulfill the visions, dreams, and desires in your heart. Just because it has taken a long time or because you've tried and failed doesn't mean it's not going to happen. Don't give up on those dreams! Don't be complacent about pursuing what God has placed in your heart. Our God is a faithful God. No matter how long it's been, no matter how impossible things look, if you'll stay in faith, your set time is coming.

Remember, every dream that's in your heart, every promise that has taken root, God put it there. Not only that, but He has every intention of bringing it to pass. Hold on to that vision today. Declare by faith, "My time is coming. God is working behind the scenes on my behalf. I will fulfill my destiny!" As you continue to hold on to that vision and speak life over your dreams, it won't be long before you see them begin to take shape. You'll see your faith grow, you'll see your hope strengthen, and you'll see yourself step into the destiny God has prepared for you!

Father in heaven, I receive Your Word which is life and health to me today. I ask that You ignite my heart with Your holy fire so that I can pursue Your perfect plan for my life. Make my thoughts and words agreeable to Your will. In Jesus' Name, Amen. (Joel & Victoria Osteen)