20 Aug
Wed
20th Week in Ordinary Time
St Bernard, abbot and doctor
Ez 34:1-11
Ps. 23(22):1-3a,3b-4,5,6
Mt 20:1-16
(Ps Wk IV)
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The God of Israel is to become the true shepherd of His people. This prophecy, dated after the fall of Jerusalem is one of hope and consolation. Israel's shepherds (her kings, princes and priests) had played her false and had been the cause of her exile. Yahweh Himself would now become her shepherd and tend to her needs as these others had failed to do. This is the first of Ezekiel's major prophecies of the restoration of Israel. Jesus will later declare Himself to be the ‘Good Shepherd' (Jn.10:11-18).

The Gospel today tells us that God's grace is not a reward to which we can claim a right. This is emphasized in today's parable of the householder. We are called to reflect on the greatness and universality of God's love and compassion, the gratuitousness of His gifts. The point is, God's gifts to us come from His goodness. We cannot earn them. What God gives is not pay but a gift; not a reward but a grace. It is His right to be generous towards whomsoever He pleases. The householder's kindness and generosity show up the selfishness and lack of those who complain about the mercies others have received. We must live with contentment of heart, appreciating the blessings God has given us. Count your own blessings and see how you have profited by them in your life.



Thank You Lord for Your love and for the many blessings You have blessed me with.


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 refugees, forced by violence to abandon their homes, may find a generous welcome and the protection of their rights.
Elaboration

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