Genesis 16:1-12, 15-16, Psalm 106:1-5, Matthew 7:21-29
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/nab/062311.shtml
PICK ON ME
Jesus said: "None of those who cry out, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of God but only the one who does the will of My Father in heaven." -Matthew 7:21
Why does the Lord "pick on" Spirit-filled people? Billions of people are not doing God's will, but the Lord focuses on those with spiritual gifts of prophecy, deliverance, and miracles (Mt 7:22). He even threatens to declare solemnly to charismatics: "I never knew you. Out of My sight, you evildoers!" (Mt 7:23)
The Lord also picks on Spirit-filled people in the famous passage about love. Many people in this world lack love. In some way, everyone is unloving, but the Lord once again focuses on those with spiritual gifts of tongues, prophecy, knowledge, faith, ministry to the poor, and martyrdom (1 Cor 13:1-3). People with these gifts are extremely blessed, but the Lord calls them "noisy gongs," "clanging cymbals," and even "nothing" unless they have love (see 1 Cor 13:1-3).
The Lord picks on Spirit-filled people because He has given them so much. He expects much from those who have been given much (Lk 12:48). The power of those who have accepted their spiritual gifts is so great that the Lord especially challenges them to repentance, obedience, and love. When the Lord picks on you, that's a sign you're extra special.
Prayer: Father, may I be worthy of being "picked on" by you.
Promise: "Anyone who hears My words and puts them into practice is like the wise man who built his house on rock." -Mt 7:24
Praise: Working in a Catholic school, Miranda is blessed to see Spirit-filled people who rise to the occasion when confronted by adversity.
(For a related teaching, order our tape Accepting Correction" on audio AV 77-1, or video V-77.)
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Rescript: In accord with the "Code of Canon Law", I hereby grant my permission to publish "One Bread, One Body" covering the period from June 1, 2011 through July 31, 2011
?Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 1, 2011
The rescript is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted ecclesial permission agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.
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