I desire mercy, not sacrifice

Greetings on this the Friday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: Is 38:1-6, 21-22, 7-8; Isaiah 38:10, 11, 12abcd, 16; Mt 12:1-8

Reflection

It is not difficult to paraphrase the sacred Scripture today in a direct way. Would you mind if I do?

The LORD is clear that the divine will is for us to be MERCIFUL to one another. More important than any LITURGY or SACRIFICE with which we may want to appease God, it is NOTHING compared to this command…

Be merciful to one another.

Sacred Scripture

Full reading: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/071924.cfm

First Reading

Then the word of the LORD came to Isaiah: “Go, tell Hezekiah: Thus says the LORD, the God of your father David: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears. I will heal you: in three days you shall go up to the LORD’s temple; I will add fifteen years to your life. I will rescue you and this city from the hand of the king of Assyria; I will be a shield to this city.”

Responsorial

You saved my life, O Lord; I shall not die.

Gospel Acclamation

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

Gospel

I say to you, something greater than the temple is here. If you knew what this meant, I desire mercy, not sacrifice, you would not have condemned these innocent men. For the Son of Man is Lord of the sabbath.”

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry