The stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone. — Psalm 118:22

Mass readings: Acts 4:1-12 / John 21:1-14

The Other Fridays 

I must confess that what comes to mind on the first Friday after Easter is meat. No more abstaining so let the hamburgers and pepperoni pizza be served! I can remember when it was Church law that said all Fridays were meatless. And I can remember the feeling when that law changed, making it voluntary. Like many Catholics, for me “voluntary” quickly became “great in theory but not this Friday, not today.” 

We get to choose some sacrifices (like observing meatless Fridays throughout the year) but others seem to be chosen for us: the hardships and demands that can come from illness, family strife, financial troubles . . . . It’s a long and varied list. There’s no escaping these “personal crosses.” They’re the ones Jesus said we need to pick up and carry daily.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for all those who have made sacrifices for me.