Greetings on this the Saturday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: Ez 18:1-10, 13b, 30-32; Ps 51:12-13, 14-15, 18-19; Mt 19:13-15
Blame Game
The proverb cited in Ezekiel is the general proverb for everyone who doesn’t grow up: It’s someone else’s fault. Sure, Mom and Dad are imperfect and make (made) mistakes. But in the overall, the quality of our life is what we make of what we do have and what we truly are.
Summary
Why are children’s teeth are on edge? The answer is in the gospel portion today. 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.
Do we aspire to raise children to enjoy the divine-human relationship? The Lord wants the good for humans.
Reflection
Why should you die, O house of Israel?
For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone who dies,
says the Lord GOD. Return and live!
Personal Reflection
I grew up in a dysfunctional environment. But I never doubted the love of Mother and Father. For me, their love of their children lifted us out of the negativity of the dysfunctional parts of family life. Of all the things you can give your children, give them Jesus.
Sacred Readings
Full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/081724.cfm
First Reading
Son of man, what is the meaning of this proverb
that you recite in the land of Israel:“Fathers have eaten green grapes,
thus their children’s teeth are on edge”?
Responsorial
Create a clean heart in me, O God.
Gospel Acclamation
Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.
Gospel
Children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on them and pray. 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.
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry