LAM. 2:2, 10-14, 18-19; PSALM 74; MATTHEW 8:5-17
The first reading presents us with the lamentation of the people for the devastation, captivity and destruction they went through because of their sins. Precisely because of this, the psalm of today cries out in prayers for a national deliverance. We too as a nation are in spiritual exile, facing devastation and affliction, we are to cry out for deliverance.
Presently, our cry should go beyond prayers to the application of wisdom – the sense of right judgment. We should be able to judge and vote wisely in this forth coming election. Make every effort to get your PVC and make sure your cry for deliverance is heard by voting the most suitable candidate.
Again, this desire for deliverance led the centurion to Jesus in the gospel, asking him to restore is paralyzed servant. Beside this, the centurion expressed great faith in Jesus and humility in character. Before God, faith is an irresistible fragrance; while humility attracts his pardon. Let us approach Jesus in humility and faith.
Lastly, today we celebrate the memorial of the Immaculate Heart of Mary – a celebration of the faithfulness and love of her heart for Jesus. To be immaculate is to be pure. Mary’s heart is pure; for that reason God found her worthy of divine habitation. The ‘pure in heart’ attracts divine presence and habitation; Matt.5:8 says “Blessed are the Pure in heart, for they shall see God.” What kind of heart have you?
PRAYER FOR RESTORATION
Oh Lord, restore our wasted years, Lord, restore our wasted efforts, health, strength and blessings. We remove from our lives every barrier to our breakthroughs. In Jer.34:26 your word says you will restore their fortunes and have compassion on them. Therefore, oh Lord, have mercy on us and restore our land through Christ our Lord. Amen.
