20 Aug
Thu
20th Week in Ordinary Time
St Bernard, Abbot and doctor
Ez. 36:23-28
Ps. 50:12-13,14-15,18-19
Mt. 22:1-14
(Ps Wk IV)
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Ezekiel told the Israelites that God would sanctify his name, which the people had profaned.

God would gather the Israelites into their own land and purify them - they would be set apart. They would be given a new heart and a new spirit. The Israelites would be restored spiritually so that they would follow the Covenant between God and his people by obeying the commandments. This is the path to wholeness and holiness.

The wedding banquet was one of the most joyous occasions in Jewish life and could last for up to a week. Jesus compared heaven to a wedding banquet that a king had prepared for his son. Many were invited but no one accepted; in fact, some mistreated the king's slaves.

The king then destroyed their cities and sent his slaves to invite anyone who would come - both good and bad. However, there were some expectations, such as the wearing of the wedding garment.

Similarly, if a person does not show proper respect to God's expectations, then he will be cast out. We are all welcome to the kingdom, but we need to show reverent respect and follow God's leading.


Lord, help me to respect and honour You by following Your way.



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 all those who work and live from the sea, among them sailors, fishermen and their families.
Elaboration

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