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The words of Psalm 18 used in the Entrance Antiphon may seem unreal or irrelevant to us for we have no raging enemies and we generally do not live in fear of violent men attacking us. Nevertheless, the Psalm is a model for praying to God as a saviour in times of difficulty.
Most people probably pray more frequently in times of need and distress. That is obviously acceptable in God's eyes, since God is indeed our Saviour in times of distress. Many psalms affirm that God is our strength and use many images to express that strength: rock, fortress, stronghold, refuge. God is indeed present to us to support us in times of distress, but he is equally present to us in times of joy and peace, and in these times we are enlightened by divine grace to pray to God out of love. Thus the opening words of Psalm 18 set the tone of the whole rather long prayer: "I love you, Lord, my strength." As the opening prayer for today's Eucharist teaches us, we must also call on God in love: apart from times of difficulty, we must learn to pray simply out of love.
Teach us to love You, Lord, because You are our strength, our help in time of distress. Teach us, also, Lord, to pray to You in love.
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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 whole world may recognize the contribution of women to the development of society.
Elaboration
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