Saturday of the Twenty-Fifth Week in Ordinary Time

Saint Wenceslaus (907-935); Saints Laurence Ruiz and his Companions, martyrs (17th century); Blessed Virgin Mary

Readings of the Day
RB: Ch 7:19-23
Mass: Zech 2:5-9, 14-15a; Resp Ps (Jer 31); Lk 9:43b-45

Hear the word of the Lord, O nations.

I think of the conflicting emotions among the disciples in today's brief Gospel passage of less than three verses. The disciples go from amazement to confusion to fear. A line that stands out is Jesus saying, "Pay attention to what I am telling you." Then Jesus predicts his passion for the second time: "The Son of Man is to be handed over to men." My eyes then went to the Communion Antiphon: Whoever wishes to come after me, must deny himself, take up his cross and follow me. When paying attention to that I can go from amazement to confusion to fear. Living and true God, help us to follow you more closely in word and deed, no matter how great or small the challenge.

Amid all the ranks of the saints, the first place for humility, purity and tender love is held by the Blessed Virgin, the Mother of Jesus. And in the same way she shines out gloriously above all God's lovers, for the greatness of her charity.

(John of Forde)

ST WENCESLAUS, STS LAURENCE RUIZ AND HIS COMPANIONS,

HOLY MOTHER OF GOD,

PRAY FOR US.

© Gertrude Feick 2019