The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, August 21, 2004
Saturday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Pius X, pope

Scripture from today’s Liturgy of the Word:
Ezekiel 43:1-7
Psalm 85:9-14
Matthew 23:1-12

A reflection on today’s Sacred Scripture:

"Do and observe all things...but do not follow their example"

Jesus points to the spirit of the Word that calls forth the truth of humility. This knowledge begets actions that acknowledge the majestic lordship of the Word, before whom and to whom we pledge our complete love, devotion and service. The understanding and action of humility is begotten by the "I have loved you first" humility of the Word Who loves us, devotedly serves us, redeems us, reforms and renews us... The example to follow is the Word in deed.

Jesus reminds us that calling attention to ourselves, placing ourselves first, or setting ourselves before others, denies the very Truth we profess. We must carefully protect the Word from selfish tendencies to call honor to ourselves. We must not detract from the Truth who is the Word and Who alone is pure Love. It is the Word Who alone is adorable. When the Word finds a home within us it is He that is glorious to behold. We become the swept clean tabernacles of repose, the monstrance where He is found, worshiped, adored. "Whoever humbles himself will be exalted," reveals the truth that when more of God is revealed, there is less of self to distract. This contrasts with a one who exalts self, offering little or no room for the adorable One.

O Lord, may we feed those hungry for Life with the One Eucharistic Self Who alone fills an emptied self with You, our Word, our all in All.

- Mary Williams
(wlmsconsul at pdq dot net)

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posted by joachim at 4:21 AM