December 7, 2019 Saturday of the 1st Week in Advent-A ST. AMBROSE, BISHOP, DOCTOR

Isaiah 30:19-21, 23-26

Psalm 147

Matthew 9:35—10:1, 5, 6-8

“This is the way; walk in it,” Is. 30:21

“The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Mt. 10:7

Lord, today you show us what life is like in your Kingdom.  Your heart was broken and moved with pity so you sent your disciples out among the people who were “like sheep without a shepherd.”  They needed to be shown compassion, forgiveness and their physical and material needs addressed.  The people were enduring the oppression of Roman occupation and the heavy burdens placed upon them by their religious leaders.   In your kingdom, Lord, people watch out for each other.  Those who are lost or separated from society are invited back.  The stranger at the church door is welcomed.  Residents of nursing homes are visited.  The poor offered food and clothing.  The demons of bigotry and self-centeredness are cast out.   The leaders of the community humbly minister to all and as our Pope says, “smell like the sheep.”  Lord, I ask for the grace to live in your kingdom in whatever ways you have called me to.   I have received the gift of faith to share and not to hold within.   Show me how to live my faith in the particular corner of your kingdom that you have placed me.  Amen.