Our reflection from the Gospel this week is:

“I tell you, there will be rejoicing among the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

Jesus surprises the Pharisees when He shares a meal with sinners. He openly welcomes all people interested in what He had to say about God’s mercy. He responds to the Pharisees’ surprise with parables about a lost sheep and a lost coin. Both the shepherd and the housewife “search until what they have lost is found” and share their joy with others. In the same way, God rejoices when we turn to Him.

We pray together: St. Jude, place a spark of hope in my heart, and ignite in me a fire burning with the love of God. Help me to forgive readily and to know and do God’s holy and true will.