31 Oct
Mon
31st Week in Ordinary Time
Phil. 2:1-4
Ps. 130:1,2,3
Lk. 14:12-14
(Ps Wk III)
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If we have ever been in a group of people quarrelling, fighting, and backbiting, we know what a miserable experience it is. Only one thing would complete Paul's joy: he wanted all the believers in his community to be of one mind and one love. That does not mean that there will never be differing opinions or disagreements. But if all the community members genuinely love and respect one another, those little 'bumps in the road' will not amount to much. Paul knew that the essential core of Christian living is renouncing selfishness and focusing on the needs and the happiness of others.

Jesus told His followers not to invite only friends, family, and the rich and powerful to their meals and banquets. These folks would give something in return. Instead, invite those no one ever includes - the lonely, the rejected, and the poor.

In the Old Testament time, those who were blind and crippled were thought to be cursed by God and impure. Just imagine the joy that they would have felt at being included in the celebrations!

We are surrounded by lonely people who do not have family, friends, or resources. We can make Paul's joy complete, as well as the Lord's, by reaching out with love to brighten the life of someone.


Lord, help me to brighten the lives of others.



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
We pray for the Church, ever faithful to, and courageous in preaching the Gospel; may the Church be a community of solidarity, fraternity and welcome, always living in an atmosphere of synodality.
Elaboration

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