3 Aug
Sat
17th Week in Ordinary Time
Lev. 25:1,8-17
Ps. 67(66):2-3,5,7-8
Mt. 14:1-12
(Ps Wk I)
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This passage from Leviticus is a good example how the Bible influenced European civilization and then the whole world. The notion of a Jubilee every fifty years has developed widely so that we celebrate jubilees of lesser lengths of time.

Several ideas are central to the jubilee as described here. There is first of all to be a return to one's own property and to one's family estate. This probably meant something like returning to one's origin. In a certain sense, Jesus liberated us from a strict connection with any particular land or piece of land and told us that we are to seek first the kingdom of God. In the Beatitudes he assured us: "Blessed are the meek for they shall possess the land." Being meek or childlike is a preparation for entering the Kingdom of God: "Unless you change and become like little children, you shall not enter the kingdom of heaven." (Mt 18:3).

The central notion of jubilee is the celebration of life, and perhaps with it a warning not to take everything for granted: "you shall not sow nor shall you reap." Stand back from all your occupations and rest, take stock of where you stand with God.



Lord, teach us to be happy and to be truly grateful for all that we receive.

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 parents and teachers may help the new generation to grow in upright conscience and life.
Elaboration

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