13 Jan
Sat
1st Week in Ordinary Time
St Hilary, bishop and doctor
Heb. 4:12-16
Ps. 19:7-9,14
Mk. 2:13-17
(Ps Wk I)
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The word of God is like a double-edged sword. The Letter to the Hebrews uses this powerful image to suggest the "discriminating" function of the word of God. The word of God discriminates - between true and false, good and evil, human judgement and divine mercy.

In Jesus, the word of God comes to us to enlighten our minds and hearts, teaching us how to discern what is divine and what is merely human. For, when Jesus speaks, His words are of God, and so they come like a two-edged sword. The words of the scribes, even if they are only spoken in puzzlement, tend to be condemnatory, criticizing Jesus for eating with sinners. The word of Jesus, on the other hand, uses simple human wisdom to illuminate the divine mercy and the divine acceptance of those who are "outside". Levi was "outside" Israel by being a tax-collector, but Jesus called him in, into the new Covenant. Those at table with Jesus were all outsiders, but by being in their company Jesus was bringing them in, into the new Covenant.



Father, send Your word into our hearts to make us wise and loving like Jesus.

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 in our time, unfortunately marked by many episodes of violence, the pastors of the Church may continue to indicate the way of peace and understanding among peoples.
Elaboration

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