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Wednesday, February 21, 2001

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St. Peter Damian


Sirach 4:11-19
Psalm 119:165, 168, 171-172, 174-175
Mark 9:38-40

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mined-fields

"John said to Him, 'Teacher, we saw a man using Your name to expel demons.' " —Mark 9:38

Because of past wars, large areas of several countries are still land-mined. These mines cause devastating injuries and death even years after a war is over.

Jesus' war on earth with the devil is over. "It was to destroy the devil's works that the Son of God revealed Himself" (1 Jn 3:8). Jesus is totally victorious. He "took His seat forever at the right hand of God; now He waits until His enemies are placed beneath His feet" (Heb 10:12-13). The war is over, but the spiritual land-mines of the evil one still remain and continue to harm those who are not walking with Jesus.

Therefore:

  • Don't take a step without checking with Jesus (see Is 30:21).
  • Warn others to watch their steps.
  • Sweep the mined fields clean by prayer and fasting (see Mt 17:21).
  • Lead others to walk with Christ — even in His footsteps (see 1 Pt 2:21).
  • Encourage others to pray and fast.
  • Thank Jesus for His victory and the guidance of the Holy Spirit (see Jn 16:13).

Prayer:  Father, thank You for victory, protection, healing, and hope.

Promise:  "Wisdom instructs her children and admonishes those who seek her. He who loves her loves life." —Sir 4:11-12

Praise:  St. Peter wrote: "The way that God deals with men can only be praised. He lashes them in this life to shield them from the eternal lash in the next."

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Ralph J. Lawrence, August 9, 2000


Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, August 18, 2000