4 Sep
Sat
22nd Week in Ordinary Time
1 Cor. 4:6-15
Ps. 144(145): 17-18,19-20, 21
Lk. 6:1-5
(Ps Wk II)
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It is so strange - even good and spiritual things can lead to sin when they are misused. Some of the people in Corinth claimed to be great spiritual 'gurus' and teachers - they were quite impressed with themselves and lorded it over others. They looked down on Paul and let him know that they thought he was a real loser. After all, he didn't cut a fine figure or have the eloquence that they possessed. With his fine sarcasm, Paul makes it clear: arrogance and inflated egos do not come from the Spirit. All of his sufferings and so-called shortcomings were proof that he was following the crucified Lord and allowing God to use him as an instrument. We can never measure ourselves or others by outward appearances - only by the extent of our love and service.

Rules are made for people, not people for the rules. Jesus recognized a human need - His followers were very hungry. He permitted them to pick the grain on the Sabbath and even pointed to a similar situation in the Old Testament. We always have to keep this in mind: religious customs and traditions are to help us, not to crush us or make our lives miserable. We must be flexible rather than lax, always remembering that the well-being of people is foremost. When we have a trusting and loving relationship with God we will know what is right. Let our heart and the Spirit of God be our guide.



Lord, teach me humility and service.

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 in less developed parts of the world the proclamation of the Word of God may renew people's hearts, encouraging them to work actively towards authentic social progress.
Elaboration

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