January 22, 2017 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time-A

Isaiah 8:23-9:3

Psalm 27

1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 17

Matthew 4:12-23

“…on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death light has arisen.”  Matthew 4:16

Lord, you indeed brought light to a people in darkness, a people in need of a savior.  Forty-four years ago this week America chose darkness over light when the Supreme Court threw out all obstacles to abortion-on-demand.  Since then the lives of over 50 million of your precious children have been lost in our land.  Killing of the innocent is the darkness we’ve endured since.  But we have hope as we witness the tide turning.  More and more people recognize the dignity and value of life.  More laws are in place respecting innocent human life. More people are serving mothers who desperately need options other than abortion.  Lord, with the prayers of our mother Mary and your grace our movement, to bring our nation out of the darkness of death, is gaining ground.  Lord, I pray today for all mothers and fathers to value life within the womb.  Forgive those who have not chosen life.  Make our land, dear Jesus, again a safe place for babies in the womb.  Shine your light and banish the darkness of death.  God Bless the USA.  Amen.