"To have courage for whatever comes in life - everything lies in that."

Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections but instantly set about remedying them - every day begin the task anew.  - Saint Francis de Sales

Gospel Text: (LK 9:43B-45)

While they were all amazed at his every deed,

Jesus said to his disciples,

“Pay attention to what I am telling you.

The Son of Man is to be handed over to men.”

But they did not understand this saying;

its meaning was hidden from them

so that they should not understand it,

and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.

You don’t understand why. You doubt. You hesitate. You are afraid.

But here’s the good news! Fears and doubts don’t disqualify you from following Jesus. He is the source of all wisdom and understanding, the giver of inexhaustible grace and mercy. And patience. If you balk or stumble, he has promised forgiveness to your repentance. If you worry or doubt, he offers strength and encouragement. So don’t let these things drive you away from the Lord. He is patient and kind, gentle and loving. As he did with the disciples, so he will lead you, forgive you, teach you, show you, comfort you, and uphold you. Always.