20 Jun
Tue
11th Week in Ordinary Time
2 Cor. 8:1-9
Ps. 146(145):1-2,5-6,6-7,8-9;Mt. 5:43-48
(Ps Wk III)
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Sometimes giving can seem like a burden, and we can get tired of constant appeals from charities and collections. But Paul challenges us — giving (wisely, not carelessly) is an honour, privilege, and a source of joy and blessing. We take part in the works for which the money is collected — we are a needed support. Give generously — and not only money, but time and energy — and you will receive much more in the sense of peace and joy.

Loving our enemies sounds weird and even impossible, but Jesus was insistent. Anyone can love their friends and those who love them — that's easy! But when we love our enemies and persecutors — well, that shows that we are extraordinary, even godlike. For that is how God loves — without distinction or conditions. He loves the wicked and the good, the holy and the sinners. God has no enemies, and neither should we. If we are able to love in this fashion, people will know that we are the 'real thing' — children of the Most High God. There will also be the satisfaction of knowing that we are taking part in the healing of the world. Pray for the most difficult and unlovable — it is a holy work and pleasing to God. After a while, it will even become pleasing to us, for we will be transformed in the process.



Lord, help me to love even the most difficult.


Say the daily
Novena to the Sacred Heart

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 national leaders may firmly commit themselves to ending the arms trade, which victimizes so many innocent people.
Elaboration

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