July 15, 2017 Saturday of the 14th Week of Ordinary Time-A ST. BONAVENTURE, BISHOP, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH

Genesis 49:29-32; 50:15-26

Psalm 105

Matthew 10:24-33

“What I say to you in darkness, speak in the light…”  Matthew 10:27

Lord, we are surrounded by a movement to be politically correct when discussing faith and our beliefs.  We are urged to be tolerant of every viewpoint.  We are never to offend anyone by challenging their version of the truth.  This has led to an acceptance of or denial of the reality of sin.  We often choose to keep silent when confronted by injustice or other violations of your commandments.  You encourage us today to be bold in our standing up for the gospel message.  We are not to water down the radical truth of your good news.  Lord, help me to respect everyone I meet regardless of their politics, religion, race or culture.  But then give me the grace to proclaim your pure truth without embarrassment or fear.  I do nobody any good by remaining silent in the face of lies and deceit.  Help me to be open to your whispers to my heart.   Amen.