June 13, 2020 Saturday of the 10th Week in Ordinary Time–A ST ANTHONY OF PADUA, PRIEST , DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH
1 Kings 19:19-21
Psalm 16
Matthew 5:33-37
Elisha left him and, taking the yoke of oxen slaughtered them… 1 Kings 19:21
Let your “Yes” mean “Yes” and your “No” mean “No. Mt. 5:37
Lord, both readings today speak to me about commitment. Elisha was a rich farmer but Elijah was told by the Holy Spirit to pass the torch of prophecy to Elisha. Elisha slaughtered his entire herd of oxen, cooked the flesh and fed his family. He then left to follow Elijah. He trusted that God would provide for him. You taught your disciples to speak their words with conviction and mean what they say. Political correctness was not allowed. Elisha’s “yes” meant “yes.” We can accomplish nothing without commitment. Lord, I want the determination of Elisha. I don’t necessarily have to burn bridges behind me like he did but I can firmly choose good rather than evil. I can give and not count the cost. I can forgive and let old hurts go. I can always do what I say I’m going to do. Lord, I want to be committed to following you and always accept your call to service in whatever form that may take. Our Psalm today hits the nail on the head: “I set the Lord ever before me, with him at my right hand I shall not be disturbed.” (Ps. 16:8) St. Anthony pray for us. Amen.