August 14, 2021 Saturday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time-B ST. MAXIMILIAN KOLBE, PRIEST, MARTYR
Joshua 24:14-29
Psalm 16
Matthew 19:13-15
Now, therefore, put away the strange gods that are among you and turn your hearts to the Lord… Joshua: 24:23
Lord, like the Israelites in the Promised Land, we are surrounded by “strange gods.” The false gods that they were drawn to were made of wood and stone. The false gods we are tempted by come in many forms. Our consumer culture tells us that to be happy we must have the state-of-the-art iPhone, the newest computer, the latest fashions and the hottest car. Our house has to be as nice or nicer than our neighbors. We fill our time with hours of internet surfing and TV viewing. Some worship sports or other forms to entertainment. Lord, where do you fit into our priorities? Is it okay to play golf on Sunday morning rather than worship you at Mass? Does making money come before sharing ourselves with our children? How do I spend my time, my talents and my treasure? Matthew wrote: “For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.” (Mt. 6:21). Joshua was warning of the consequences of turning to the false gods of their neighbors. Nothing has changed. Dear Jesus, fix my attention and heart on you. Help me to empty myself of all excessive attractions to this world so you can fill me with yourself. St. Maximilian pray for me. Amen.