February 3.  Doing the loving thing in relationships can be hard and challenging at times.  That is what Marissa found when her husband had a serious fallout over a financial deal with her brother. He had refused to speak to her brother saying it was too hard to forgive but she nevertheless continued to pray that there could be forgiveness and reconciliation. Feast of St Blaise, and blessing of the throats.

Reflect, share. Scripture: Jesus called out, “Come out of the man you unclean spirits.” The unclean spirits came out and entered the herd of swine who rushed down into the sea and were drowned. Those who had seen and told what had happened to the demoniac and to the swine began to beg Jesus to depart from their neighbourhood because they were afraid. Mark 5:1-20. Pope Francis.  When we have been offended or let down forgiveness is possible and desirable but no one can say that it is easy.  The truth is that “family communion can only be preserved and perfected through a great spirit of sacrifice. AL106.  JUBILEE. The men and women of our time often find themselves confused and torn apart, almost bereft of an inner principle that can create unity and harmony in their lives and actions. Models of behaviour that, sadly, are now widespread exaggerate our rational-technological dimension or, on the contrary, that of our instincts”. No room is left for the heart. (Sacred Heart) DN 9.   Prayer and action :  Pray for clarity and willingness to live Jesus’ way. Choose appropriate action.