32ND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

The Apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith.” 

Faith is powerful. That’s why Jesus said that even the tiniest seed of faith could uproot a mulberry tree (Luke 17:6). Yet few of us think we have that kind of faith. So today, let’s join the apostles in praying for more faith and believe that, even though our faith may be lacking, Jesus will answer our prayer.

“Increase my faith, Lord, in the power of your cross to defeat the sinful tendencies in my life. Through your cross and resurrection, you have set me free. Help me to believe that I am truly free and that sin no longer has power over me.

“Increase my faith, Lord, in the grace that enables me to forgive those who have hurt or offended me. Only you can soften my hardened heart.

“Increase my faith, Lord, in the power of your sacraments. Let me experience your abundant mercy in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. May I always believe that you truly pardon my every sin. Open my eyes to your presence in the Eucharist and to the grace you bestow on me every time I receive your Body and Blood.

“Increase my faith, Lord, in the power of the Scriptures to speak to me, to convict me, to guide me, to inspire me. Let me cling to your word each day, knowing that through it, you are speaking words of love and truth to me.

“Increase my faith, Lord, in your power to heal. Help me to believe that when I pray for someone, your hand stretches out to restore that person, body and soul.

“Increase my faith, Lord, so that I can trust that you care for my every need. Help me to pray persistently, even when I doubt that you are listening. Help my faith to remain strong even when I don’t see my prayers being answered in the way I desire. May I always believe that your plan for my life is bigger and better than mine.

“Lord, you know that my faith is often weak. But I trust that when I exercise the faith I do have, you will make that small mustard seed inside of me grow, flourish, and glorify you.”

“Jesus, ‘I do believe, help my unbelief’” (Mark 9:24).

Wisdom 1:1-7
Psalm 139:1-10
Luke 17:1-6