When we praise God in the midst of our storms, we’re declaring that He is still in control – that darkness has not overcome the light. Praise pushes back against the darkness and becomes both a weapon and shield, guarding our hearts from anger, hate, resentment, and the desire for revenge or retaliation. It’s okay to cry out or be angry with God; He can take it. Even Jesus sweat blood in His anguish. By reaching out to God in our pain, we’re reminded that we are not alone.

Readings at this Mass: Acts 15:1–2, 22–29 | Rv 21:10–14, 22–23 | Jn 14:23–29

When you find yourself confronting something new or something seemingly out of control, and you wish your life was different or that things could just continue like they always have — resist that thought. Resist. Remember: God has known about this time and this situation from all eternity, and He’s known about you from all eternity, and He’s chosen this time and this place for you – from all eternity.

Readings at this Mass: Acts 14:21–27 | Rv 21:1–5a | Jn 13:31–33a, 34–35

As we celebrate Good Shepherd Sunday, Mother's Day, and the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, it is important for us to remember that, when we hear the voice of the good shepherd, we not only follow him but we discover for each one of us the vocation that he has entrusted to us.

Readings at this Mass: Acts 13:14, 43–52 | Rv 7:9, 14b–17 | Jn 10:27–30