August 5, 2018 
Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Saint of the day
Saint Addai (2nd century)
Legend has it that Saint Addai was ordered by Saint Thomas to go to the court of King Abgar the Black. Tradition tells us that Abgar, the king of Edessa, was stricken with an incurable sickness. Hearing of Jesus' power and healing miracles, King Abgar wrote to Jesus, imploring him to come and heal him. Jesus sent his messenger Addai, gifted with his power, to heal the king. Addai came to Edessa to cure the king. After King Abgar was no longer afflicted with his ailment, Addai converted him and his people to the faith.
Reflection
In Jesus' time, many miracles were performed that subsequently led to large conversions. But even Jesus is quick to remind his listeners that miracles will not actually create true and lasting faith. True faith often exists in the absence of dazzling miracles. Through the prism of faith, we see that literally all of creation is, in a true sense, a miracle--direct evidence of the hand and influence of God.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, help me to recognize that all my life is miraculous and to appreciate you in every detail of every moment of all of my days.
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 113
Place in Year: Ordinary Time
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Green
Daily readings
Reading 1: Exodus 16:2-4, 12-15
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 78:3-4, 23-24, 25, 54
Reading 2: Ephesians 4:17, 20-24
Alleluia: Matthew 4:4b
Gospel: John 6:24-35
View complete readings on USCCB.org
