The Baptism of Jesus
John the Baptist was sanctified by Jesus and the Holy Spirit through the visitation of Mary. He was called to “prepare the way” for the coming of the Lord. Then, he was called to participate directly in the ministry of Jesus by baptizing Him in the Jordan River. Even though John did not feel worthy of this participation, Jesus told him it was “fitting for him to fulfill all righteousness.” Lord, I come into your presence during this rosary, through the Blessed Virgin Mary. Sanctify me in these moments as you did John, and reveal to me the calling you have prepared for me. How can I, an unworthy servant, participate in your ministry to fulfill all righteousness?
The Wedding at Cana:
The compassionate heart of Mary was moved by the needs of the people, and she went to Jesus on their behalf. She told the servants, “Do whatever He tells you.” Jesus told them to fill the empty jugs with water, and He changed it to wine. Jesus could have filled the empty jugs himself, but He chose to involve the servants in His ministry. He took their work, and He transformed it. Lord, I come into Your presence during this rosary, with the Blessed Virgin Mary, who I’m sure has gone to you on my behalf. I am listening, Lord. I will do whatever you tell me. Can you use the simple work of my hands this day? Can you transform it into something miraculous, something that brings joy to your people and fosters belief in your Name? Here I am, Lord. I come to do your will.
The Proclamation of the Kingdom:
When Jesus began His public ministry, He proclaimed, “the Kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel.'' This is the call of all calls for every person on the planet. The Kingdom must come into our hearts before it can come into the world. Lord, I have heard your call in my heart to receive your Kingdom inside of me. But to accomplish this, I know I must repent and believe. Help me to examine my conscience in the light of the Holy Spirit. Reveal to me my most grievous faults. Instill in me true remorse and contrition for my sins. Are there areas of my life where my faith is weak? Help me, Lord, to believe. May thy Kingdom of God; thy will be done.
The Transfiguration:
When Jesus was transfigured, Peter eagerly wanted to do something to participate. He said, “Lord… If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” But a cloud covered them, and the Eternal Father said, “This is My Son, whom I love; with Him, I am well pleased. Listen to Him!” On the way down the mountain, Jesus told them not to tell anyone what they had seen—because it was not the right time. Lord, I eagerly want to do something to participate in the coming of Your Kingdom and to proclaim all that you have allowed me to “see” with spiritual eyes. But I realize my ways are not Your ways, and my time is not Your time. I am listening, Jesus. What would you have me do for you today when we descend this mountain of prayer? Teach me when and how to speak and act. Give me wisdom, patience, and temperance to fulfill your holy will.
The Institution of the Holy Eucharist:
Before Jesus established the Holy Eucharist and came to dwell within their hearts, He washed the apostles’ feet. Peter, at first, was unwilling to have his feet washed because it seemed to be beneath Jesus. But Jesus explained to him, “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet… no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.” Lord, as I seek to follow you in ministry, grant me a servant’s heart. How can I bend low in humility today? How can I serve Your people? Make me willing and eager to perform even those acts that seem beneath me.