From the Gospel according to Luke. Lk 17:11-19

Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!”

When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed.

One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan.

Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” 

Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.”

The Gospel of the Lord

Filled with the Holy Fragrance

I am increasingly aware of God’s action in my life and in our marriage. More and more, I realize that it is not I who make things happen, but rather the Spirit of the Lord who acts. But do I remember to praise and thank Him every time? Many people desire to be mindful of the Lord at every moment. This could be a good way to do that: praising and thanking Him for everything that happens in my life and in our marriage.

Applied to married life:

Stephen: How was today, Natalie?

Natalie: A wonderful day, Esteban. I am overjoyed with the fruits that Our Mother has brought forth in so many marriages through the retreat.

Stephen: That’s amazing. You look radiant! It’s clear that God’s Love has touched your soul and left it imbued with His Holy Fragrance. Have you thanked Him?

Natalie: No, I haven’t! How could I without you? I was waiting so we could praise God together. Shall we go adore the Blessed Sacrament, like we do every day?

Stephen: That sounds perfect. I love being with Him and with you—the two for whom I have given my life. We owe so much to the Lord…

Mother,

May we never be ungrateful, neither for the good that happens nor for the difficult things God permits, always for our purification and for a greater good. Blessed and praised be Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, who does so much good in our hearts as loving spouses. Amen.