30 Jul
Tue
17th Week in Ordinary Time
St Peter Chrysologus, Bishop & Doctor
Ex. 33:7-11; 34:5-9,28
Ps. 103(102):6-7,8-9,10-11,12-13
Mt. 13:36-43
(Ps Wk I)
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In today's first reading from the Book of Exodus we get a sense of the peoples' awe and reverence for the Lord. The tent where people could consult with the Lord was placed at a certain distance apart. Moses was the one who spoke to the Lord on behalf of the people and when they saw the cloud coming from the tent they would rise and worship at the entrance of their own tents. Moses would speak to the Lord face to face. He knew God was a God of mercy, kindness and fidelity. Even if the people are a stiffed-necked people Moses invites God to be in their company. He is their mediator.

Let us think of ourselves today and the privilege that is ours. Jesus has come and pitched His tent among us. He is our "Emmanuel" meaning "God with us". He is our great mediator. He has come to reveal the Father's love and through Him we can call God 'Abba', Father. Moses gave the people the ten commandments to guide their lives and these are handed down to us today. But Jesus summarizes them as love of God and love of our neighbour. Our God is no longer a distant God but a God who knows each of us personally. Through baptism God has made His home in us. We are His chosen ones and He invites us to make our home in Him. Let us thank God for this great gift of God's love in our lives and turn to Him often in prayer.



Lord, You have pitched Your tent among us, teach us to value Your presence in the neighbourhood we live!

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 World Youth Day in Brazil may encourage all young Christians to become disciples and missionaries of the Gospel.
Elaboration

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