Lifeless Facts

Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of the Church
Readings: Is 66:10-14c; Ps 131:1bcde, 2, 3; Mt 18:1-4
Notes: Today I will use the optional reading for the memorial.

• We need a break from the hard facts.
• Facts by themselves are lifeless.
• Facts and Law can be life draining and become themselves the idol of our souls.

Truth is most fully known in relation with God.
Peace is found listening to the heartbeat of the Lord.

Her “spiritual doctrine,” popularly known as “The Little Way of Spiritual Childhood,” liberated thousands of Catholics from a rigid legalistic and moralistic understanding of the faith. Saint Thérèse helped people understand that sanctity was not for a limited few, but for all the baptized.

From: https://www.franciscanmedia.org/franciscan-spirit-blog/saint-therese-simple-profound-love

First reading
As a mother comforts her son,
so will I comfort you;
in Jerusalem you shall find your comfort.

Responsorial Psalm
In you, Lord, I have found my peace.

Nay rather, I have stilled and quieted
my soul like a weaned child.
Like a weaned child on its mother’s lap,
so is my soul within me.

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

Gospel Portion
The disciples approached Jesus and said,
“Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?”
He called a child over, placed it in their midst, and said,
“Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children,
you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven.
Whoever humbles himself like this child
is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.”

Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus, pray for us, work with us, and help us in our journey.

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry