13 Dec
Tue
3rd Week of Advent
Zep. 3:1-2,9-13
Ps. 34(33):2-3,6-7,16,18-19,23
Mt. 21:28-32
(Ps Wk III)
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During the Advent season, we are constantly challenged by the daily scripture readings. In today's Gospel reading, Jesus said that those who were despised, rejected and condemned by the religious leaders, though they had said 'no' to God, they were repenting, performing God's will and entering the Kingdom. On the other hand, the religious authorities has loudly said 'yes' to God but never did what God said, so they failed to enter.

Through this parable, Jesus is speaking to us - reminding us not to judge others but to accept this challenge and change ourselves. "To live is to change. To be perfect is to have changed often," wrote John Henry Newman.

A similar message is reflected in the first reading wherein the prophet focused on Jerusalem and Judah - the guilty city which harboured oppressors, rebels and defiled people. These people observed ritual cleaning as an external sancity and appreared to be pure. They failed to obey God as they had no trust in God who had dircted and guided them. On the contrary, it is the humble and meek (Zep. 3:12 and 13) who put their trust in God as they knew their confidence and strength were derived from God.



Let us continue to seek God's presence in our lives by examining ourselves regularly as we renew ourselves to welcome Jesus into our hearts as Christmas.


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 scandal of child-soldiers may be eliminated the world over.
Elaboration

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