Queen Esther, seized with mortal anguish, had recourse to the LORD. She lay prostrate upon the ground, together with her handmaids, from morning until evening, and said: “God of Abraham, God of Isaac, and God of Jacob, blessed are you. Help me, who am alone and have no help but you, for I am taking my life in my hand. (Es C:12,14)

Do you ever feel powerless in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, winter storm, economic uncertainty; government decisions; the choices your children make in their careers, friendships and the way they pass their time? Do you fear powerlessness about what might happen to you, your children and grandchildren in the future? Today's passage speaks of Queen Esther who found herself in a situation where she was overwhelmed and powerless. The situation of her fellow Jews was desperate. There was a plot to murder all of them in one mass killing. Esther threw herself at the mercy of God, pleading and praying with unwavering conviction. She had faith in God, believing that he alone could stop this terrible evil. She prayed for the gift of persuasive words that would convince her husband, who was the king, to spare her people. Esther's prayer was heard by God, and her pleading was answered by the king. She was victorious over her enemy. With God's grace, her efforts to stop this evil act were successful and her people were saved from death. The actions of God on behalf of Queen Esther give witness to what we heard in the Bible when Jesus said: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. (Mt 7:7-8) Jesus tells his disciples, as well as us, that God constantly pours out his love and answers our prayers. Jesus is describing the limitless love that God has for his people. He reminds us that we are to ask, seek and knock, but what he really wants us to realize is the lavish care that God provides for us. How have we been saved by God already in our lives? Are there times of trial from which we’ve been delivered? It’s so easy to see only what’s in front of us, and the sufferings of the moment. Reflect back on years gone by and actively look for ways that God has delivered. This should serve to deepen our trust in God.

Lord, in every need let me come to You with humble trust saying,

“Jesus, help me.”

In all my doubts, perplexities, and temptations,

Jesus, help me.

In hours of loneliness, weariness, and trials,

Jesus, help me.

In the failure of my plans and hopes; in disappointments, troubles, and sorrows,

Jesus, help me.

When others fail me, and Your grace alone can assist me,

Jesus, help me.

When I throw myself on Your tender love as a father and savior,

Jesus, help me.

When my heart is cast down by failure at seeing no good come from my efforts,

Jesus, help me.

When I feel impatient and my cross irritates me,

Jesus, help me.

When I am ill, and my head and hands cannot work, and I am lonely,

Jesus, help me.

Always, always, in spite of weakness, falls, and shortcomings of every kind,

Jesus, help me and never forsake me.

Amen. 

(Catholic Online Prayer)

Our Lady of Perpetual Help, intercede for us during this time of needs. Hail Mary full of grace… St. Joseph, pray for us.

Peace in Christ,

Father Vincent Nguyen

St. Clare of Assisi

Houston, TX