August 3, 2024, Saturday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time-B
Jeremiah 26:11-16, 24
Psalm 69
Matthew 14:1-12
“It was the Lord who sent me to prophesy against this house…” Jer. 26:12
…you who seek God, may your hearts revive! Ps. 69:32
Lord, you sent both John the Baptist and Jeremiah to speak your word to your people. The message of repentance and change carries risk to the one who speaks. Both paid the price for being the heralds of the good news of repentance and mercy. You were executed because you “rocked the boat” of the establishment and threatened their authority over the people. The will of God often clashes with the will of man. I thank you for giving holy men and women over the ages the courage to speak your will to us. I seek your will for me, dear Jesus. It may be uncomfortable at first when you urge me to leave my comfort zone and embrace what is right and true. Where does my will clash with yours? Show me today, Lord, where I can more fully live the abundant life you offer. And give me the grace of holy courage to never “go with the flow” of this world. May I slow down and listen to the soft, quiet voice of the Spirit which you gave me at my Baptism. Amen.