5 Jul
Sun
14th Sunday in Ordinary Time (B)
Ez. 2:2-5
Ps. 122(123): 1-2a,2bcd,3-4
2 Cor. 12:7-10
Mk. 6:1-6
(Ps Wk II)
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What is the "thorn" in Paul's flesh? Is it a physical problem such as epilepsy or persistent headaches? Is it a psychological problem such as depression? Is it something else? We do not know. Yet, even though we cannot determine Paul's exact trouble, there is something here that is of great value.

Whatever it is, this stubborn difficulty makes Paul conscious that he is a person with weaknesses. Such a realization might cause some to despair; Paul sees it as an opportunity. He proclaims his weaknesses as a witness to the power of Christ. Paul is flawed and fragile, yet great things happen in his life because of the Lord. Christ dwells in Paul and the power of Christ shines through Paul's powerlessness.

Even after prayer, the problem does not vanish--it remains with Paul in daily life. However, he trusts that the Lord will give him sufficient grace to cope. There is peace that comes with such trust. The thorn keeps Paul from relying on his own efforts and leads him, instead, to draw strength from the Lord.

We are invited to acknowledge our weaknesses. They may be very painful. They also have the potential of drawing us into deeper relationship with Christ.



Lord, thank You for my weaknesses. Give me the grace I need to trust in Your strength.

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 Christians of the Middle East may live their faith in full freedom and be an instrument of peace and reconciliation.
Elaboration

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