In this week’s Gospel, Jesus asks His disciples to come away for some quiet time, and flocks of people find them and follow them. Jesus is moved by the deep need the people have for a shepherd to guide them, and He reaches out to them.

Jesus asks us all to pull ourselves away from the world for quiet time. It is in the quiet hour that we reflect, acknowledge our shortcomings and our growth, and praise God for the gift of life.

We pray together: St. Jude, in my quiet moments I find that you are a friend I can always count on. Hear my prayers, and guide me in hope and gratitude.