The Deserted Place

Greetings on this the Saturday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: Heb 13:15-17, 20-21; Ps 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6; Mk 6:30-34
Notes: Today we finish the continuous reading of the Letter to the Hebrews. Next week we do a continusous reading of the Book of Genesis. We’ll start Monday with “In the beginning”.

The Letter to the Hebrews is to strengthen us in times of trial and temptation to be right and do right.
The portion today reminds us to confess Jesus, do good, share what we have and know God is pleased with that kind of life.

Our gospel portion today, Jesus models the height of the doing right. Even as they are very tired, exhausted even, Jesus makes time for those who followed him to the deserted place. His heart was moved with pity for them [for us], for they were like sheep without a shepherd. We need and want good shepherds in our lives.

The deserted place highlights a simple fact. There is no one else to rely upon but Jesus.

First reading
Brothers and sisters: Through Jesus, let us continually offer God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of lips that confess his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have; God is pleased by sacrifices of that kind.

May he carry out in you what is pleasing to him through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Responsorial Psalm
The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

Alleluia Verse
My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.

Gospel Portion
When Jesus disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd.

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry