9 Aug
Thu
18th Week in Ordinary Time
St Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, Virgin & Martyr.
Jer. 31:31-34
Ps.50(51):12-13,14-15,18-19
Mt. 16:13-23
(Ps Wk II)
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We live in a world of constant changes. Nothing seems to be constant or long-lasting. Every agreement or law can be overturned. Every decision can be challenged or changed. The word that is given today can be withheld tomorrow. We want to make everything easy and convenient; however we don't feel secure in the world where promises are broken.

God who knows our misery wants to heal us through His new covenant with us. Covenant is not just a simple agreement or contract. Covenant is a life-long commitment that should be kept even if one of the partners becomes unfaithful. The Old Testament covenant was sealed by the blood of animals so that Israelites could understand that it was a matter of death and life. The New Covenant was sealed by the Blood of Christ who died on the cross and has been raised from death so that we may be redeemed and our sins forgiven.

We enter into this new covenant of salvation through our baptism. It is this wonderful sacrament that gives us true knowledge of God through the gift of faith so that we may repeat after St Peter that Jesus is the Son of the Living God. It is also baptism that writes God's law of love on our hearts and strengthens our trust in God who forgives our sins.



Lord, help us to be faithful to Your covenant. May we never betray Your ways that lead to God's kingdom.

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 prisoners may be treated with justice and respect for their human dignity.
Elaboration

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