August 1, 2018 Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time-B ST ALPHONSUS LIGUORI, BISHOP, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH

Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21

Psalm 59

Matthew 13:44-46

When I found your words…they became my joy and the happiness of my heart.  Jer. 15:16

“When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has…”  Mt. 13:46

Lord, true and lasting happiness and joy are found only in your kingdom.  Our search for this treasure can easily be distracted by the temporary illusions that the things of this world offer.  What really matters is being in harmony with your truth and emptying ourselves of what leads us into darkness.  For each of us the price of this heavenly happiness will be different.  But it all comes down to surrendering to you in whatever way you ask of us.  Lord, I offer to you all my worldly possessions but most of all I offer you my heart, my will, my suffering and my love.  I trust you will not expect more from me than I am able to give.  Help me to grow in my reliance on your mercy.  Show me the path you wish me to walk today.  Give me a heart that is satisfied only with what you want me to have.  Lord, may I bury my fears and increase my dependence on you.  Thank you for hearing my prayer.  St. Alphonsus Liguori pray for me.  Amen.