September 2, 2018 Sunday of the 22nd Week in Ordinary Time-B

Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-8

Psalm 15

James 1:17-18, 21-22, 27

Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23

Be doers of the word and not hearers only, deluding yourselves.  James 1:22

Lord, many a parent, by their actions, have said to their children “do as I say not as I do”.  I know good example is the best teacher but we sometimes fall into the trap of not following St. James’ admonition in today’s word.  Most of us know in our hearts what is right and what is wrong.  James tells us to “care for orphans and widows in their affliction and to keep oneself unstained by the world.”  Lord, you want us to love God with all our heart and strength and our neighbors as ourselves.  We can’t do that by lip service, we have to get our hands dirty and put our backs into it.  I am confident of your grace to lead me to be a “doer” of your word and to make life better for someone today.  Help me to work for what I pray for.  Your kingdom will be built on this earth by faith empowered by your grace leading to action.   As a member of your family may I today be a blessing to my brothers and sisters.  Amen.