|
"A new heart and a new spirit." Reacting against a fatalistic view which blamed past generations for present misfortune, Ezekiel stressed personal responsibility for our lives. The truth is not as clear-cut as that. The pondering of this mystery of suffering continued in Israel and continues today. The final verses assure us that God does not want our suffering and death; fullness of life is His desire for each of us.
The two short Gospel verses contain a beautifully rounded account of an incident which probably happened subsequently many times once the disciples understood that, in Jesus' eyes, small children were not less important because they were weak and dependent. Here, as elsewhere, Jesus states clearly that, for His followers, the "new heart and new spirit" must bring us closer to the simple trusting love of a little child.
Lord, give us 'a new heart and a new spirit' that we may live in holiness and justice.
|
|
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 respect for the environment, God's gift to all men and women, may increase both on a personal level and on that of world public opinion.
Elaboration
|
|
