July 20, 2021 Tuesday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time-B
Exodus 14:21—15:1
Psalm Exodus 15:8-10, 12, 17
Matthew 12:46-50
“For whoever does the will of my heavenly Father is my brother, and sister, and mother.” Mt. 12:50
Lord, in your day and in mine, almost nothing is more precious than family bonds. Families share the same biological DNA. Family roots run so deep in our hearts and minds that we often are defined by what family we belong to. Today you define family not in genetic terms, but the way God does. What binds God’s family is not blood but faith in him and doing his will. We gain entrance into your family when we are baptized into you. We maintain our brotherhood or sisterhood by being your disciple and persevering in following you. Through faith and obedience to you we are your brothers and sisters. I am so honored to be so close to you as to be your family. This also means that I am brother, sister or mother to all who believe and follow you. Families watch out for each other. Families protect their members. Families share blessings and troubles. Families stick together. Lord, heal any wounds in your family and keep us as one in your name. May our parish be a welcoming and peaceful place for all to worship you. Amen.