Tuesday, June 6, 2017

Tobit 2:9-14, Psalm 112:1-2, 7-9, Mark 12:13-17

DAILY HOLY MASS READINGS

May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ
enlighten the eyes of our hearts,
that we may know what is the hope
that belongs to his call. Eph 1:17-18






Tobit 2:9-14, Psalm 112:1-2, 7-9, Mark 12:13-17



Tobit 2:9-14

Dear Love,

Tobit was a good, God fearing man who upheld the law at a time when it was dangerous so for his people were in exile. He lost his sight and despite going to many doctors he got worse until he was completely blind. However, he did not turn against God but remained faithful. Because of his disability his wife Anna had to work to support them and this she did diligently. But when she was paid her wages and also given a goat which she brought home, he husband accuses her  of stealing it without giving her an opportunity to explain. 

This incident is a good reminder to us who can become self-righteous and judgmental. Taking advantage of our position of superiority we condemn without having made the slightest effort to get to the facts of the matter. Tobit made this error when he accused his wife. She in turn reminded him that all his good works were worthless if he failed to exercise charity toward those in his own household.  This story is a good reminder to us as well to be prudent and cautious before accusing people.

Psalm 112:1-2, 7-9

Dear Love,

Today the psalmist reminds us that those who are just will receive the gift of confidence in the Lord no matter how difficult life may get. The eyes of the Lord are unwavering on those who love Him and who have placed all their trust in Him. He will never fail them and they are certain of it. This is why their heart is light and their step is sure for they know that their God is always with them. He is Emmanuel. No matter how bad the news their hearts are at ease for their hope is in You who they know will deliver them from the jaws of death and from the hands of the enemy. A just man, an honorable man, a God fearing man is generous with all he has because he is aware that all the good things he has received comes from the hand of God and is given to him in order that he may share with those who have nothing. He honors God who gives to the poor in turn God will ensure that he will never go hungry, thirsty or in want.

Mark 12:13-17

Dear Love,

One of the worst things among some of the elite who have position, wealth or power that places them over others is that they are prepared to do anything no matter how evil to ensure that they keep that place.The Pharisees and the Herodians saw You as a threat and they wanted to discredit You before the crowd. Completely unaware that You saw their evil hearts and knew their evil thoughts they flattered You and thought they were being exceedingly clever as they set a trap for You convinced that they could ensnare You with their bait.

As always, they were caught out. You told them plainly that You knew what was in their hearts and then You proceeded to pull the carpet from right under them. They marveled at how cleverly You extricated Yourself with words of wisdom that they could not refute.

"Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar
and to God what belongs to God."


And they went away silenced as well as completely, and utterly amazed. 


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