In today’s second reading St. John reminds us that we need to walk in love. If we do not love and remain within the teachings of Christ, we will lose God’s presence. We may pray and start the day, but in times of trial, we may react negatively. Our thoughts and emotions may take control of us and give rise to words which may be hurtful to another. Today let us search our hearts, are we returning to the Lord as soon as we fall or do we postpone, making us vulnerable to the enemy. We must keep returning to the Lord in repentance and surrender. It is never too late to return, no matter what we have done, the Lord is waiting for our return. Can we be humble and courageous to go before him as we are? The Psalmist says in Psalm 119:11, “I have hidden your Word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” Though we face many trails let us return to the Lord immediately and hold on to the Word in faith, without giving way to negative thoughts and emotions. This is the journey to holiness.

Prayer: Abba Father, give us the grace to hold on to your Word in times of trial. Amen.