19 Aug
Thu
20th Week in Ordinary Time
St John Eudes, priest
Ez. 36:23-28
Ps. 51:10-13,16-17
Mt. 22:1-14
(Ps Wk IV)
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In the first reading from Prophet Ezekiel Yahweh announces and reveals the holiness of His name before the nations: the total purification of Israel; the return from exile to the promised land and the renewal of the Covenant. These are the capital points of the prediction. Central is the purification of the people: "I will save you from all impurities through the strength of the Spirit, the water of life, the new heart". God prepares something totally new: a new creature, a new people . . . in a new earth. A new creation is announced: We, Christians, are this people.

The formula of the Alliance involves new content "My people", those born from God by water and the Spirit. The concept of race is transcended. Ezekiel announces the people of the new Covenant which would be signed by the blood of Christ.

This is what we sing with great joy in Psalm 51: "A new heart create for me, God; God renew in me a steadfast sprit". Everything will be new. The spirit and the heart will be renewed. The pure water of the Lord will realize this transformation.



Lord, let Your love surround me and make me whole.

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That the European Union may know how to draw new nourishment from the Christian patrimony which has been an essential part of its culture and history.
Elaboration

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