July 1, 2019 Monday of the 13th Week in Ordinary Time-C
Genesis 18:16-33
Psalm 103
Matthew 8:18-22
“Please, let not my Lord grow angry if I speak up this last time.” Gen. 18:32
Lord, I wouldn’t dare talk to you like Abraham did. He was a tough and persistent negotiator on behalf of the people of Sodom. Perhaps he knew ten righteous and faithful people there and wanted to save them from the coming wrath. This was truly an unusual conversation between you and he. Sometimes when I pray I may want to make a deal with God. It goes like this: “Dear God, if you give me what I ask for I will do this or that for you.” I wonder how a prayer like that is received. I am impressed with the informality and intimacy of Abraham’s relationship with you. He speaks to you like a friend and close companion. Lord, I pray to you every day. Most of the time I speak the same words and present the same message. I want to have a conversation with you, speak from my heart and maintain an open ear to what you want to say to me. Keep my prayer fresh and joyful. May I imagine you sitting before me listening to me and speaking to me. Speak Lord, your servant is listening. Amen.