16 Aug
Mon
20th Week in Ordinary Time
Ez. 24:15-24
(R. Ps) Deut. 32:18-19,20,21
Mt. 19:16-22
(Ps Wk IV)
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We have today the story of a young man who did not have that simple trust of the child which Jesus spoke about in last Saturday's reading. He was apparently a good man, an unusually good man, and now he asks Jesus what he needs to do in order to have eternal life. The man is told, "If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments." And Jesus mentions just four of the commandments, all touching on relationships with other people. And he adds, "Love your neighbour as yourself." "I have kept all these. What more do I need to do?" Jesus tells him that if he wants to be perfect then he should dispose of his wealth, share it with the poor and follow Jesus as a disciple. He was shocked. He believed his wealth was a blessing from God. But, in Jesus' eyes, to be rich was not just to have money, but to cling to it when surrounded by many in need of the necessities of life. So as long as the man had to cling to his money, he could not - as he claimed to be doing - be loving his neighbour as his own self. He was not able to follow the example of Peter and Andrew, James and John who left their boats, nets and family to go and put all their security with Jesus. We may not be rich in money but the Gospel speaks to us too. If we are honest, we will admit that we all have some things we would be very slow to let go of.



Lord, help me to be a true disciple of Jesus.

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 those who are unemployed, homeless, or in any serious need may find welcome, understanding, and help in overcoming their difficulties.
Elaboration

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