1 Jul
Sat
12th Week in Ordinary Time
Lam. 2:2,10-14,18-19
Ps. 74:1-7,20-21
Mt. 8:5-17 (Ps Wk IV)
(Ps Ws IV)
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The geographical boundaries of Jesus' Mission are well defined by the Father: Israel only, period! The few contacts He had with individual Gentiles residing in Palestine showed in them a faith superior to the faith of the Jews, and for Jesus, the continuous sacrifice of his zeal, restricted to such narrow boundaries. Look at the military man of today's Gospel: he is composing a beautiful parable with elements taken from his professional life. He has authority over his soldiers and servants, and Jesus has authority over Nature; Jesus can confront the polio viruses, and give them an order: "get out of this man!" And the order will work, even at a distance, no need to have Him present.

We are peace-makers, but discipline has been for many military people the way to faith and salvation. The first non-Jewish family converted by the preaching of the Apostles was a military family - Cornelius' family. How about St. Martin, the Roman soldier who donated his blanket to a beggar, then converted and finally became bishop of Tour? How about the Legion of Mary, that adopts the speech, symbols and banners of the Roman Legion?



Prince of Peace, let me be a peace-maker, but serve You and Your people with fidelity, Amen.

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 all those who are in prison, and especially young people, may receive the necessary support from society to help them rediscover meaning in their lives.
Elaboration

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