Catholic Men’s Daily Devotional – 25th Week in Ordinary time – Monday – Luke 8:16-18

After explaining the Parable of the Sower, Christ pauses to reveal part of His strategy of evangelization to encourage the disciples and build their confidence. He begins with the example of lighted lamp. The revelation of the Gospel (the light) maybe hidden in the near term to confound those who are evil (covered with a vessel or hidden under a bed) but God’s intention is for His truth to be known (seen) by all (put the lamp on a stand).

Christ is preparing the disciples for their role as leaders in evangelization of the world. He takes them aside and patiently teaches them the deeper meaning of His parables. Christ directs the disciples to make His parables known broadly, uncovering the secret meaning so that His truth can be known by all.

With the blessing of receiving the fullness of truth from Christ comes great responsibility. Christ urges the disciples to heed His words, warning them that their exalted status could be taken away if they fail to productively use the gifts they have been given. This warning holds true for all men even today.

Awed by Jesus Christ – Son of God, Christ is the greatest strategist, planning out Salvation History and revealing it in deliberate stages. Divine King, prepares His disciples for their mission to bring the Gospel to all men. Christ Divine Teacher, Christ offers teachings which can be mysterious to the evil but made manifest to those who love Him. Divine Judge, Christ warns of clear consequences for those who do and do not heed His words.

Being a Heroic Catholic Man

1) Men are impressed by great strategists, leaders who conceive and successfully implement breakthrough strategies. Reflect on God’s strategy that spans all of human history and the magnificent Incarnation of Christ as part the unfolding plan of Salvation History.

2) Many Catholic men are lackadaisical in living up to their responsibilities to share the gift of the Gospel. Reflect on Christ’s urging to proclaim His Gospel (put the lamp on the stand) and pray for Him to guide you to spread the Word.

3) Given the excitement of living in the world with its many distractions, it is very easy to forget about eternity. Reflect on if you have made disciples for Christ and if your fruitfulness is sufficient.  Pray for Christ’s help to heed His promise that what you have can be taken away.

Spiritual Practices – Include in Today’s Prayers

Sacred Mystery of Rosary – The Joyful Mysteries

Daily Devotion – The Souls in Purgatory

Virtue of the Day – Prudence

Corporal Work of Mercy – To give drink to the thirsty

Spiritual Work of Mercy – To instruct the ignorant