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To make an alliance with the Gentile nations surrounding Israel seemed to some people to be a politically desirable way of proceeding to enhance the nation's prospects. But they should have counted the cost of such an alliance with paganism, an evil alliance detrimental to their relationship with God. Israel's exact situation under king Antiochus Epiphanes will hardly be reciprocated exactly in any modern society or nation. Yet, the attraction of political or economic advancement or any other form of expediency can be subtly alluring. The fourth commandment implies patriotism, which is a Christian virtue, to be exercised, for example, by praying for the good of one's nation or people or society.
Father grant us the wisdom of knowing that difference is to be celebrated and appreciated and never to be used to the detriment of different people.
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DAILY OFFERING
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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.
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PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
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INTENTION
That people who suffer from depression or burn-out will find support and a light that opens them up to life.
Elaboration
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