Thursday, August 30, 2012
1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Psalm 145:2-7, Matthew 24:42-51
Link to Readings --> http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/083012.cfm
PRACTICE THE PRESENCE OF THE MASTER (Part 1)
"Happy that servant whom his Master discovers at work on His return!" -Matthew 24:46
The key to being a watchful steward is the ongoing relationship with the Master. When the Master is present, it's obviously easier for a steward to be vigilant, with eyes focused on the Master, ready to act on His every wish (see Ps 123:2).
When it's not obvious to us that our Master is present, we are tempted to be sinful, disobedient, self-centered stewards. To give in to this temptation puts us, Jesus' stewards, in jeopardy of being punished severely (Mt 24:51). Jesus is always with us (Mt 1:23; 28:20), yet we often are unaware of His presence. Thus, we must constantly cultivate a sense of the Master's presence. Some ways to practice the presence of the Master are:
* Receive the eucharistic Jesus in Mass, daily if possible. His Real Presence in the Eucharist is His presence "par excellence" (Ecclesia de Eucharistia, 11, Pope John Paul II).
* Read the Scriptures daily. Jesus is alive and present in His Word (Jn 1:14; Heb 4:12).
* In community prayer, the Master promises that He is present with us (Mt 18:20).
* The Master's very name, Emmanuel, "a name which means 'God with us' " (Mt 1:23; 28:20), proclaims His constant presence with us. Pray by speaking the name of Jesus.
Even Jesus' faithful servants fail to recognize Him (see Mt 25:40-46). Therefore, constantly practice the presence of the Master.
Prayer: Jesus, may I "be ready to greet" You every moment.
Promise: "He will strengthen you till the end." -1 Cor 1:8
Praise: "Great is the Lord and highly to be praised; His greatness is unsearchable" (Ps 145:3).
(This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
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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 August 1, 2012 through September 30, 2012
?Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, March 30, 2012
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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