Dress to God's Word / "Liturgical Dress": November 20

Readings

2 Mc 7:1, 20-31 Seven brothers with their mother were tortured to force them to violate God’s law. Mother exhorted each to remain faithful. King promised riches and happiness to youngest, then appealed to mother who continued, “Don't fear this executioner; accept death." Youth didn't obey king.

Ps 17:1bcd, 5-6, 8b, 15 "Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full." Hear my outcry; I've been faithful.

Lk 19:11-28 Nobleman goes off to obtain kingship and return, gives servants coins for trade; fellow citizens don't want him as king. Upon return, servants give account: two who multiply the money receive charge of cities; one who returns coin gets nothing. "To those who have, more will be given; from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken." Nobleman's enemies are slain.

Reflections

Pope Francis audience: The source of the forgiveness of sins is the Holy Spirit. Jesus made the Church the servant of the "keys." Church calls us to experience reconciliation in its communal dimension; God gave us priests to bring forgiveness in Church's name. Priests must recognize they need forgiveness and healing themselves and so must exercise their ministry in humility and mercy. Rejoice; God never tires of forgiving us.

RC.net: King trusts his subjects. Lord offers us a kingdom of justice, love, and peace, frees us from kingdom of darkness and sin, gives us freedom to serve, entrusts us with gifts, gives grace to use them well. God honors those who use their talents for good.

Marian retreat, day 16, per Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta: John Paul II's Lenten message on “I thirst” reminded me how much Jesus loves us. Every day, see him look at you with love; hear him in your heart; hear him say “I thirst” in the poor. Avoid indifference, hardness of heart, whatever blocks personal contact with Jesus, who longs for you, misses you when you don’t come close. You're precious to him. Bring him your suffering; open your heart to be loved. Let it become intimate; “I thirst” is deeper than “I love you.” Mary heard Jesus’ “I thirst” cry on Calvary, knows how deep he longs for you and the poor. Do we?