31 Aug
Sun
22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time (A)
Jer 20:7-9
Ps. 63(62):2,3-4,5-6,8-9
Rom 12:1-2
Mt 16:21-27
(Ps Wk II)
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In today's commercially dominated world, success is measured by how much wealth one has accumulated, by how much profit a company has earned for the shareholders. In the Gospel Jesus reminds us that we should work hard, but the effort is not for the goodness of oneself, but for the sake of earning his salvation and the building of the Kingdom of God. He says, "What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?" (Mt 16:26)

The salvation of one's soul is of the utmost importance. From time to time, as happened with Peter and Jeremiah, we are misled by misplacing our goal. Instead of focusing on the Cross, we focus only on earthly matters. "Take up your cross, and follow me" (Mt 16:24). Jesus tells us that we belong to him. He is infinitely stronger than we are for he has overcome the weakness of humanity and defeated sin. Let the love of our Lord prevail in us, burning in our heart, giving us strength.

Our life is to follow Jesus' footsteps and teachings. Let us live in a more Christian way so that we can sanctify ourselves and work to transform the world.



Lord, we are saved because of the Cross. May your love revitalize us to take up our cross gracefully.


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 refugees, forced by violence to abandon their homes, may find a generous welcome and the protection of their rights.
Elaboration

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