22 Nov
Fri
33rd Week in Ordinary Time
St Cecilia, virgin & martyr
1 Mac. 4:36-37,52-59
(R. Ps) Chr. 29:10,11-12
Lk. 19:45-48
(Ps Wk I)
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For what do you prepare in life - an important exam, the start of a new year, the birth of a child?

Today's readings are about preparation. Jesus cleanses the Temple. The Temple is his Father's house - a place meant for prayer and not for business. Jesus cleanses the Temple at this time because he is about to teach there. His teachings are received most deeply when they become part of our prayer.

In the first reading, the Jewish Maccabees retake control of Judea from the Seleucid Empire. They arrive at the Temple and see that this sacred place has been neglected and desecrated. The people are disturbed by this sight but they purify the site, build a new altar and eventually make the Temple a place where God is worshipped again. In a scene that is reminiscent of the original dedication of the Temple by Solomon 800 years before (1 Kings 8), the Maccabees now rededicate the Temple. The people rejoice for eight days.

Each year, Jewish people still remember this rededication as they celebrate Hanukkah for eight days.

I am also a Temple of the Holy Spirit. In daily life, what or who helps me to remember that God dwells within me? Is there anything from which I desire to be cleansed?



Lord, guide my words and deeds today so that I may give You praise, reverence 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 priests who experience difficulties may find comfort in their suffering, support in their doubts, and confirmation in their fidelity.
Elaboration

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