Reflect today on your mission to evangelize others

The news about him spread more and more and large crowds gathered to listen to him and to be cured of their ills, but he retired to deserted places to pray. Luke 5: 15-16

This line concludes the beautiful and powerful story of a man who was full of leprosy and who went to Jesus, prostrated himself before him and begged Jesus to heal him if it was his will. Jesus' response was simple: “I want it. Be purified. And then Jesus did the unthinkable. He touched the man. The man, of course, was immediately cured of his leprosy and Jesus sent him to show himself to the priest. But word of this miracle spread quickly and many people kept coming to see Jesus as a result.

It is easy to imagine the scene of people talking about this miracle, thinking about their ailments and those of their loved ones and wishing to be healed by this thaumaturge. But in the above passage, we see Jesus doing something very interesting and prophetic. Just as the great crowds gathered and just as there was much excitement for Jesus, He withdrew to them in a deserted place to pray. Why should he do this?

Jesus' mission was to teach his followers the truth and lead them to heaven. He did this not only through his miracles and teachings, but also by giving an example of prayer. By going to pray to His Father alone, Jesus teaches all these enthusiastic followers what is most important in life. Physical miracles are not what is most important. Prayer and fellowship with Heavenly Father is the most important thing.

If you have established a healthy life of daily prayer, one way to share the gospel with others is to allow others to witness your commitment to prayer. Not to receive their praise, but to let them know what you find most important in life. When you commit to daily Mass, go to church for worship, or just take alone time in your room to pray, others will notice and be drawn to a holy curiosity that can even lead them to a life of prayer. .

Reflect today on your mission to evangelize others by the simple act of letting your life of prayer and devotion be known to them. Let them see you pray and, if they ask, share with them the fruits of your prayer. Let your love for our Lord shine so that others can receive the blessing of your holy testimony.

Lord, help me engage in a life of true prayer and devotion every day. Help me to be faithful to this life of prayer and to be continually drawn deeper into my love for You. As I learn to pray, use me to be a witness to others so that those who need You most are changed by my love for You. Jesus I believe in you.