The Isaiah reading today holds all that I need to know on earth. No matter how alone we feel without support; fighting to face the world and all its temptations and petty annoyances; no matter how lonely and misunderstood ; no matter the injustice of the evil we are confronted with; no matter how we fall into sin; we are known to the Lord and loved by him.

Lord I pray that I always know that you are with me and show this by my works; help me to avoid sin which is the death of my soul.

Judas seems to be a necessary part of the salvation brought to the world by the incarnate Lord. Is there a difference between predetermined and preknown? Jesus knows how despicable will be the actions of St Peter when confronted with the hostility of the trial. St John seems to be the only one of those trusted and elevated by Jesus who did not fail in the last hours; but St John was supported by Our Lady whose help is still always available. 

Pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death.