February 28, 2017 Tuesday of the 8th Week in Ordinary Time-A

Sirach 35:1-12

Psalm 50

Mark 10:28-31

Give to the Most High as he has given to you…  Sirach 35:9

“…receive a hundred times more…and eternal life in the age to come.”  Mark 10:30

Lord, on this Fat Tuesday we ponder how will we observe the season of Lent in prayer, fasting and generosity.  A good place to start is how and what you have given us.  We look not just at the material goods you have placed in our care but other gifts as well: family and personal relationships, talents and abilities to make a living, fresh air and clean water and the blessings of living in freedom.  This list could go on and on.  Sirach tells us to return offerings to you that reflect you goodness to us.  In Mark, you tell us that your generosity will not be outdone either now or in the next life.  Lord, what opportunities will you present before me today to give of myself to you?  Will you bring before me someone who only I can bless like you’ve blessed me?  Will you give me a chance today to forgive like you have forgiven me?  To whom can I witness your love to like you’ve loved me?  Lord, receive my humble offerings given in your name.  Amen.