The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, July 5, 2001
The Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria
Complete story: http://www.christdesert.org/public_texts/martyrology/
Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Genesis 22:1-19
Psalm 115:1-6,8-9
Matthew 9:1-8
Full text: http://www.nccbuscc.org/nab/index.htm
A Reflection on Today's Scripture:
Today we read of the most beautiful account of faith as Abraham is
called by God to sacrifice his only son Isaac. I thought of the kind
of faith it took, to take the son he and Sarah had waited so long
for, up to the mountain to be offered to God. Imagine the thoughts of
this father as he pondered what he was called to do. I also thought
of how I would have reacted had I been called to take my son or
daughter to the altar of sacrifice. Frankly, I might have run the
other way.
No wonder we call Abraham the Father of Faith! He believed in Yahweh
with his whole being and knew that his God could even overcome death!
The key word here and in our gospel reading is FAITH! When Jesus saw
the faith of the people carrying the paralyzed man, He not only
forgave him his sins but commanded him to stand up, roll up his mat
and go home! All those present, praised God for giving such authority
to men.
Who are these men? Who are these women? These men and women are you
and me. By virtue of our Baptism and Confirmation, God has given us
power to be healers of one another. Release one another from bondage
just by saying the words "I'm sorry", or "Please forgive me." Be a
listener, a consoler and most of all a lover like our Lord Jesus
Christ.
Lord, increase our faith so that there is never room for doubt
that you are working on our behalf. Teach us your ways O God,
never let us be parted From you! Amen!
- Deacon Bill Powers ([EMAIL PROTECTED])
(Diocese of Rockville Centre)
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