1 Jul
Fri
13th Week in Ordinary Time
Am. 8:4-6,9-12
Ps. 119(118):2,10,20,30,40,131
Mt. 9:9-13
(Ps Wk I)
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Many of the stories about Jesus in the Gospels end in a climax with a saying, a pronouncement, by Jesus. Usually, it is this pronouncement which helps us to apply the moral of the story to our own lives, whether in the social sphere or the spiritual. Today's story ends with two such interrelated sayings: "It is mercy I desire and not sacrifice" and "I have come to call, not the self-righteous but sinners." We are so accustomed to seeing Jesus acting "outside the box" as we call it nowadays, that we are neither surprised nor scandalized when we read again the story of his eating with "tax collector and sinners." This familiarity may lead us to forget that Jesus is talking to us, in whatever age and place we live. The two sayings we reflect on today are very appropriate for our prayer in this Year of Mercy. As he has taught us in different ways, Jesus expects us to be merciful as our heavenly Father is merciful (cf. Lk 6:36-42). Reflection on our own faults and failings will keep us alert to the need of understanding and accepting others and not being too quick to judge or condemn.



Father in Heaven, teach us to be merciful as You are merciful to us sinners.


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 indigenous peoples, whose identity and very existence are threatened, will be shown due respect.
Elaboration

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