November 9, 2019 Saturday of the 31st Week in Ordinary Time-C THE DEDICATION OF THE LATERAN BASILICA

Ezekiel 47:1-2, 8-9, 12

Psalm 46

1 Corinthians 3:9-11, 16-17

John 2:13-22

Do you not know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 1 Cor. 3:16

Lord, Paul reminds us that we are the temples of the Holy Spirit.  He also calls to mind that you are the foundation of this church.  The Lateran Basilica is a symbol of the universal church and as members we are the stones of that church.  Throughout history the Basilica has been damaged and even partially destroyed yet it was always rebuilt.  You promised to be with your people until the end of time.  So, just as we have been attacked and wounded by evil and our own sins, the sacred space within us remains and we go on.  Lord, help me and every member of your church to live like we’ve been saved.   Help us to recognize other people, especially the poor, abused and lost, as temples where you dwell.  May I always respect that presence in whoever I meet today.  Just as our sacred buildings require maintenance and repair, keep my spiritual life in good condition by frequent reception of the sacraments of your church.  Thank you for your presence within me.  Never let me forget that your church lives on in each of us as we build it upon you our foundation.  Amen.