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In the first reading St Paul remarks on the division of their celebration into cliques. He states that the very reason Jesus died was to bridge these separations and draw people together. Jesus gave us the Eucharist as a way to remember everything He did, said and taught about Christian love and community. But the Corinthians were turning it into a way of reinforcing their factionalism.
In the Gospel, the Roman centurion represents the gentile world. Jesus responds to his request with the remark that such faith could not be found anywhere in Israel. We are reminded that our Lord Jesus is not the private possession of any one race, culture, ethnic group, nation or clique. He does not, belong to us; we belong to Him. Jesus is not made into our image; we are to reflect Him.
It is necessary that we recognize our weakness and our need for strength that Jesus alone can give. These words - "Lord, I'm not worthy to receive You but only say the word and I shall be healed, acknowledge not only our need but they also express faith that union with Jesus and each other can and should lead to a life of love, unselfishness and generosity.
Lord, I am weak but You are strong, help me to share Your love with others in tangible ways. Amen.
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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
For children and youths in Catholic Schools, that in the course of their training they may encounter strong and wise educators who will help them to grow in their religious faith and healthy attitudes to life.
Elaboration
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