16 Aug
Sat
St Stephen of Hungary
Josh. 24:14-29
Ps. 16:1-2,5,7-8,11 Mt. 19:13-15
(Ps Wk III)
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The Israelites had been exposed to the worship of other gods for over 400 years in Egypt. Now after their formative experience of the Exodus, followed by their sojourn in the desert they have arrived at an entirely new concept of Yahweh, their God, who is holy and who does not allow any rivals in his place.

Their affirmation and commitment to serve Yahweh unreservedly and Him alone, expresses the essence of Israel as a confederation whose principle of identity and unity was religion. The worship of Yahweh and Yahweh alone was to be their hallmark. The Lord alone was responsible for all that had taken place from Egypt to the land they were settling in now, therefore He alone was worthy of total allegiance. The terms of the contract were probably inscribed on stone according to an ancient ritual. Yahweh would perfect His relationship with His people by inscribing His law in the hearts of His people (Jeremiah, Isaiah, Ezekiel). In God's Son, Jesus it was further enhanced, as He became the Way, the Truth and the Life.

Jesus chooses children as significant persons in his Kingdom. They represent those without any legal claims or rights; those who must necessarily receive everything as a gift. The Kingdom is for those without any pretensions to status and superiority and for those who see it and recognise it in their hearts.



Lord, You are my portion and cup.

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 researchers in scientific and technological fields, may welcome the church's incessant calls to make wise and responsible use of the successes they have attained.
Elaboration

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