In the Gospel reading, Jesus tells that everyone who acknowledges him before others will be acknowledged by him before the angels of God. He then states that anyone who denies him before others will be denied before the angels of God. These are strong words! I doubt that most of us deny Jesus by our words. However, we more likely deny Jesus by our actions and our inactions. Jesus not only desires that we practice what we preach, He hopes that we truly practice what we profess to believe. Let us take few minutes and ask ourselves: Do I practice what I preach? Do I live the values I profess? Where are my weak spots? In what areas of my life do I want to strengthen my authenticity? Take a small step each day to become more authentic and strive to practice what we preach. Be the person you desire to become. Let us turn to Jesus and he will help us to become what we desire. But, patience and commitment are required.

Abba Father, give me eyes that see, ears that hear, and a heart that understands. Amen