The kingdom of heaven is like

Greetings on this the Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Readings: 1 Kgs 3:5, 7-12; Ps 119:57, 72, 76-77, 127-128, 129-130; Rom 8:28-30; Mt 13:44-52
Notes: Today we again sing the Torah Praises!

X-ref: http://deacongerrypalermo.blog/2023/07/28/a-torah-psalm/

• A treasure buried in a field – It is the will of G-d to fill us with Joy.
• A merchant searching for fine pearl – It is the will of G-d to pay the great price of our redemption and finding it is the highest good.
• A net thrown into the sea – It is the will of G-d to protect the righteous and to separate out those who would do harm.

The Kingdom of G-d is:

• Joy
• Redemption
• Protection

In this life.
In the life to come sheer JOY.

First Reading
The LORD was pleased that Solomon made this request.

I do as you requested. I give you a heart so wise and understanding that there has never been anyone like you up to now, and after you there will come no one to equal you.”

Responsorial
Lord, I love your commands.

I have said, O LORD, that my part
is to keep your words.
The law of your mouth is to me more precious
than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

Let your kindness comfort me
according to your promise to your servants.
Let your compassion come to me that I may live,
for your law is my delight.

For I love your commands
more than gold, however fine.
For in all your precepts I go forward;
every false way I hate.

Wonderful are your decrees;
therefore I observe them.
The revelation of your words sheds light,
giving understanding to the simple.

Second Reading
We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.

Gospel Acclamation
Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; for you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom.

Gospel
A treasure buried in a field.
A merchant searching for fine pearls
A net thrown into the sea.

Most of all, the Kingdom of Heaven was made for you!

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry