16 Jan
Tue
2nd Week in Ordinary Time
1 Sam. 16:1-13
Ps. 89(88):20,21-22,27-28
Mk. 2:23-28
(Ps Wk II)
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Jesus is a non-conformist. He places persons in need above religious observances.

The religious leaders of his time were more pre-occupied with any actions that led to a threat to established religion, of their day and of their "making!"

It is true we ought to worship God! But it can never be a substitute for service to the needy. Any religion that gives priority to rules practices and traditions over the basic needs of human beings, is an aberration.

"Pure unspoilt religion, in the eyes of God the Father, is this: coming to the help of the orphans and widows in their hardships and keeping oneself uncontaminated from the world." (James 1:27) To be concerned only with what one must avoid on Sunday amounts to Pharisaic religion which Jesus opposes. How we can celebrate Sunday as a call to engage ourselves in life-saving, life-promoting activities on behalf of those who suffer, should be our fundamental concern.



Lord, may Your Kingdom come within our hearts to reach out to my neighbour in need.


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 Christians, and other religious minorities in Asian countries, may be able to practise their faith in full freedom.
Elaboration

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