Belief is a life-and-death issue for Jesus. How do I see faith as lifegiving, for myself and others?

We are called, appointed, anointed by God to see the light and lead others out of darkness.

Aren't the readings this week about the journey of faith? The Israelites in the desert, with some stubbornness, come to trust in the God who really is with them and saves them. Saint Paul speaks of the power of faith to bring believers to the grace of hope and salvation.

Where have you borne the "hardships" for the sake of the gospel Saint Paul writes of in Romans? What were or are they? How does God strengthen you in the face of difficulties?

The first reading this week offers a meditation on the origin of sin. The writer doesn't so much explain why sin came into the world as tell a story about its entry.

When do you most feel like you are "doing the will" of God? What kinds of ministry experiences bring the strongest conviction that you are doing so?

The Lord never forgets; the Lord is our rock and our salvation; the Lord is our refuge, our judge, our light, our master, the provider of all things.

Be holy is the simple message of today's readings.

In today's psalm we sing, "Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord."

From good deeds and other acts of "light" come healing, peace, and glory.