Freedom of Divine Love

Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint Maximilian Kolbe, Priest and Martyr
Readings: Jos 24:14-29; PS 16:1-2a and 5, 7-8, 11; Mt 19:13-15
Notes: The Chosen People have had difficulties and successes from the beginning. Yet, nothing can compare to the horrors of the Shoah.

http://auschwitz.org/en/museum/news/

Saint Maximilian Kolbe, Priest and Martyr entered that terror and a second terror within the terror, his own death by lethal injection.

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2019-08-14

Joshua and Maximilian both keep their eyes on the future of the peoples.

They could see the progeny and the timelessness dignity of human life.

• Joshua at the macro level (nation).
• Maximilian at the micro level (family unit).

First reading
In the first reading we have the farewell speech of Joshua just as we had for Moses earlier in the week. This brings an end to the Exodus from Egypt, the desert journey and the difficult possession phases of the Jewish pilgrimage. There was more difficultly ahead in securing life in these promised lands but Joshua teaches and instructs the people to trust the Lord with all the troubles that they will encounter.

Joshua recalling all these things and offering a concluding ceremony of covenant renewal said,

If it does not please you to serve the LORD,
decide today whom you will serve,
the gods your fathers served beyond the River
or the gods of the Amorites in whose country you are dwelling.
As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”

Responsorial Psalm
You are my inheritance, O Lord.

Alleluia Verse
Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth;
you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.

Gospel Portion
How many are being prevented from being seen and touched by God?

May I call all of them children?

Children were brought to Jesus
that he might lay his hands on them and pray.
The disciples rebuked them, but Jesus said,
“Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them;
for the Kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
After he placed his hands on them, he went away.

Don’t be the one who stands obstacle between person and God.
Be the one who stands obstacle between evil and person.

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry