Let us pray with today’s Gospel Reading (Luke 9:18-22):

Lord Jesus Christ,

On this Friday, we come before You with a grateful and humble heart. Thank You for the gift of life, for Your mercy, and for the grace to know and follow You. You ask Your disciples, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answers with faith: “The Christ of God.”

Jesus, today You ask the same question of us: Who are You in our lives? You are our Lord. You are our Savior. You are our hope when we are discouraged. You are our strength when we are weak. You are our refuge when we are afraid. You are our peace when our heart is troubled.

Lord, deepen our faith so that we may recognize You not only in moments of blessing, but also in moments of suffering and uncertainty. You revealed that the Son of Man must suffer, be rejected, be ki!!ed, and rise again. Teach us that following You does not mean a life without difficulties. Give us the courage to embrace our crosses with faith, knowing that suffering united with You can become a path toward holiness.

Lord, when our cross feels heavy, strengthen us. When we do not understand Your plan, help us trust. When we are tempted to give up, renew our hope. When we experience rejection, remind us that You understand our pain. When we experience joy, teach us to give You thanks.Lord Jesus, help us to know You more deeply and to love You more sincerely. May our words, choices, and actions proclaim that You truly are the Christ of God. Bless our family and all those we carry in our heart. Bring healing to the sick, comfort to those who mourn, peace to those who are anxious, and strength to those carrying heavy burdens. On this Friday, may we unite our prayers, sacrifices, joys, and sufferings with the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Amen