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The Gospel today recounts Jesus' warning about the "leaven" of the Pharisees and of Herod. Jesus was explicitly referring to their "teachings" (Mt. 16:12) and their hypocrisy (Lk. 12:1) Apparently, these two main obstacles caused them not to see Jesus as the Messiah living in their midst. They preferred to ignore the miracles witnessed and kept to their obnoxious and unbelieving attitude.
We are reminded through this unbelieving attitude of man's continuous wickedness. This wickedness can be seen in the form of wrong teachings and wrong ethics within Church circles, with the subtle motive of breaking the unity of the Church. Unless we obediently unite together in the Word of God and the Cross of Jesus, our pharisaical actions will tarnish the image of the Church and cause scandal to others. Then, one day we will have to face Jesus when He will ask of us: "Do you not yet understand? Are your hearts hardened?"
Gracious Father, please remove the wickedness in me and let me see Your salvation in the Cross of Jesus. 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
That the goods of the earth, given by God for all men, may be used wisely and according to criteria of justice and solidarity.
Elaboration
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