4 Feb
Sat
4th Week in Ordinary Time
1 Kgs. 3:4-13
Ps. 119:9,10,11,12,13,14
Mk. 6:30-34
(Ps Wk IV)
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So pleased was God when Solomon chose to ask for wisdom instead of wealth or longevity or revenge on his enemies that in addition to his request, God bestowed on him riches and honour enough to outclass any other ruler. Here we see the overwhelming bountifulness of our God. His gifts surpass anything we can ask for. The key word here is ask; He is waiting for us to ask for only when we ask can He act in our lives. His graciousness, once received is to be shared with others.

This same graciousness is beautifully exemplified in Christ who on seeing His disciples exhausted after their first ministry, plans a much needed getaway for them. He knows they need to relax in peace and quiet, away from the crowds. But alas, their plans were foiled for the crowds having got wind of their whereabouts, descended on them in throngs! Good Shepherd that He was, Jesus tended to His flock, momentarily putting aside His own needs and the needs of His disciples. We see, how with sensitivity and compassion, Jesus cares for the multitudes.



Lord, help us to be more attuned to the needs of people. Remind us also that in order to serve You and Your people more effectively, we need to rest and take care of ourselves. Teach us too, Lord to be gracious and compassionate when our personal plans are sometimes upset by the demands of the "multitudes".

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 international community may be ever more aware of the urgent duty to bring an end to the trafficking in human beings.
Elaboration

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