Venerable Bruno Lanteri was a Catholic priest who lived during the early 19th century in Italy and founded the Oblates of the Virgin Mary religious congregation. I was recently consoled by some of his advice that relates to Saint Paul’s words to us today: “Do not let yourself be troubled by anything, not even by your own failings, taking care to overcome them immediately by an act of love of God.” He often referred to the motto “begin again” to ward off spiritual discouragement. These are helpful and hopeful pieces of advice! While we are all going to make mistakes, we are reminded today that God is patient and merciful because He is love. Therefore, if we fall or relapse, let us not give into fear, self-loathing, and self-pity. Instead, let us turn back to God’s “love loop,” beginning again one day at a time since “we have come to know and to believe in the love God has for us” (1 John 4:16).

Reflection Questions

• What do you still fear? What might God be revealing to you through such a fear?
• Pause to reflect on your recovery journey. What are ways you’ve come to know that God loves you both personally and unconditionally?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 1 John 4:11-18
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 72: 1-2, 10, 12-13
Gospel: Mark 6:45-52

Reflection by Allison H.