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Reflection for Sunday 08/30/09

READINGS
First Reading: Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-8
Second Reading: James 1:17-18, 21-22, 27
Gospel: Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23

REFLECTION:
Jesus didn’t seem to have much patience with the Pharisees, did he? He seemed disappointed when they focused on the laws and judged harshly those who didn’t strictly observe the traditions. The Pharisees seemed self-righteous, measuring the value of others only by how well they publicly observed the laws, rather than how they treated each other, especially those in need. Jesus, on the other hand, seems more concerned that our hearts be rooted in God and that our choices and actions flow from this loving relationship. He expects us to be kind and generous to others, to be just in our relationships, and forgiving when we are injured. It is not acceptable to Jesus that we proclaim the commandments but fail to live by them. It is not enough to go through the motions of prayer and service without investing our love and faith in our actions. Jesus seems to be calling us to consider our commitment to Christian living. Are our choices based on habit? On what is convenient? On what makes us look good? Or do we search our soul to see more clearly how Jesus calls us to live?

1. Which words of Jesus provide the most inspiration for the Christian work that you do?
2. How do you welcome the words of Jesus into your heart?

PRAYER:
Dear Jesus, I yearn to follow you. Open my heart to accept your gifts with joy. Strengthen my will so that I choose to live as your faithful servant. Amen

Mass Readings