Wednesday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time
Mark 7: 14-23
Change from Within

The journey of faith always begins with a transformation—not from the outside, but from within. True change is not about fixing the world around us but allowing God to work in the depths of our hearts.

We often focus on the exterior—the people, circumstances, and situations that surround us. When life doesn’t go our way, we’re tempted to blame others, using them as scapegoats for our frustrations and negativity. This approach is dangerous and unjust. It blinds us to our own need for change and risks harming those around us. Take a moment to reflect: Am I venting my internal struggles onto others? Be mindful of this tendency and ask for God’s grace to confront what’s within.

The true work of transformation happens in the interior. This is where Jesus longs to dwell, not to condemn us but to illuminate us with His love and truth. Often, we judge others through the lens of our own weaknesses, failing to see their goodness. Instead of taking the time to know others deeply, we rely on shallow impressions. How crucial it is to fill our hearts with God! His love empowers us to live with compassion, objectivity, and strength. When we discover God within us, we can share Him with hearts that are empty or burdened. Remember, no matter what, God never abandons you—He loves you infinitely.

Finally, there are things in life that will not change. These are the crosses we must bear and learn to endure. Let us pray for the patience to handle these challenges and grow through them.
Let us ask our Blessed Mother to help us to change from within. Teach us patience and guide us to endure life’s challenges with grace.

© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025