December 14, 2022, Wednesday of the 3rd Week of Advent-A ST JOHN OF THE CROSS, PRIEST, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH

Isaiah 45:6-8, 18, 21-25

Psalm 85

Luke 7:18-23

Only in the Lord are just deeds and power.  Isaiah 45:24

Lord, man’s system of justice is often flawed. The rich can get different treatment than the poor. Facts are distorted to achieve a desired outcome. Witnesses make mistakes. Punishments are not on par with the crime. But your justice is perfect. For that we are grateful. You see all, know all and can measure what’s in the human heart. So, we turn to you to guide us to make just decisions. You call us to give favor to the poor and oppressed. Work miracles in our day like you did in today’s Gospel reading. You encourage us to look to you and your word for truth. We are to obey just authority and to work together to resist evil especially when it threatens the innocent. Lord, let your justice descend from heaven like the dew. Today, Lord, I trust in your ways and rely on you to guide me to be just in all my decisions, thoughts, words and actions. Guide me to those who don’t know your love and mercy so I can point them to you.  St. John of the Cross pray for us.  Amen