Saint Maria Goretti, Virgin and Martyr (Optional Memorial)
On the third day Abraham got sight of the place from afar. (Genesis 22:4)
Let’s imagine we are listening in on Abraham’s conversation with God as he makes the three-day journey with Isaac toward Moriah:
“Lord, I started down this road the minute that I said yes to you. But it’s been three days! And Isaac is following me, happy to join me to offer the sacrifice. He doesn’t know what lies ahead. And I don’t have the heart to tell him. This is a hard road, Lord!
“You promised that you would make me the father of a multitude of nations. You said that my descendants would be like the stars in the sky. How can this be if you’re asking me to offer up my only child? He is the son you promised! He is the miracle you gave to Sarah and me in our old age.
“And yet I know that you have always been faithful to me, Lord. I don’t want the heat and burden of this journey to make me forget that. You promised me a son, and then against all odds, Sarah became pregnant. He has brought so much joy to our lives. But he’s not just for us. He’s for you. If you have great plans for him, then why this?
“Lord, I believe that you will provide for us somehow. So I will keep walking. I said yes to you, and I am going to continue on, even though each step takes an act of my will to keep moving forward, even though I want to turn around and run when I think about what is going to happen to my dear son.
“I’m starting to understand that you’re not looking for a simple onetime answer to the question ‘Will you . . . ?’ You want me to say yes all along the way. That’s how I’ll get stronger. Help me to trust you, Lord!
“Lord, we’re getting close. I can see the place of sacrifice up ahead. I don’t understand what you’re going to do, but I will trust you. I will say yes to you again.”
We all have times when we feel as if we’re being called to sacrifice our own “Isaac.” As we walk that journey, may God give us the faith to say yes.
“Thank you, Father, that you are completely trustworthy!”
Psalm 115:1-6, 8-9
Matthew 9:1-8
Daily Marriage Tip for July 6, 2017:
St. Maria Goretti was martyred for her fidelity to being pure for Christ. How can you purify your own heart? Pray for the grace to live out purity in your marriage.