Friday of the Second Week of Lent

World Water Day

Readings of the Day
RB: Ch 43:1-12 Tardiness at the Work of God or at Table
Mass: Gn 37:3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a; Resp Ps 105; Mt 21:33-43, 45-46

Remember the marvels the Lord has done.

The story of Joseph and his technicolor coat was a favorite of mine as a child. My mom would read the story while I listened and looked at the pictures. One thing that stands out in my memory is how much I liked Joseph's coat. There was a beautiful picture of Joseph in his bright colors on the cover. As I read the account today, what stands out is this line: 'When Joseph's brothers saw that their father loved him best of all his sons, they hated him so much that they would not even greet him.' How do I behave when I am jealous or envious, see that someone is lauded for their achievement or accomplishment, or that someone is favored. This happens wherever we find ourselves, at home, work, community, school, athletics. I think about St Benedict's words in Ch 34 of the Holy Rule, 'Distribution of Goods According to Need.' 'It is written: Distribution was made to each one as he had need (Acts 4:35). By this we do not imply that there should be favoritism-God forbid-but rather consideration for weaknesses. Whoever needs less should thank God and not be distressed, but whoever needs more should feel humble because of his weakness, not self-important because of the kindness shown to him. In this way all members will be at peace. First and foremost, there must be no word or sign of the evil of grumbling, no manifestation of it for any reason at all.' 

Dear Lord, grant us the grace to build up the Body of Christ with our kindness, love, compassion, encouragement, support, and words and actions of goodwill. 

DELIVER US FROM JEALOUSY.

When we see the good fortune of others,

let us rejoice in their happiness.

When we see our own shortcomings,

let us not despise those who excel in areas where we are lacking.

When we feel jealous,

let us be happy with the gifts God has given us and not covet that which is not rightfully ours.

(Magnificat, Prayer for the Evening, March 22, 2019)

THE STONE THAT THE BUILDERS REJECTED HAS BECOME THE CORNERSTONE; BY THE LORD THIS HAS BEEN DONE, AND IT IS WONDERFUL IN OUR EYES.
(Ps 118:22/Mt 21:42)