Psalm 127: 1-2
If the Lord does not build the house,
in vain do its builders labor;
if the Lord does not guard the city,
in vain does the guard keep watch.
Sirach 35:12-17
Give to the Most High as he has given to you, generously, according to your means. For he is a God who always repays and will give back to you sevenfold.
But offer no bribes; these he does not accept! Do not trust in sacrifice of the fruits of extortion, For he is a God of justice, who shows no partiality. He shows no partiality to the weak but hears the grievance of the oppressed. He does not forsake the cry of the orphan, nor the widow when she pours out her complaint.
Reflections: Who is our house built upon? Are we generous with our gifts or hold them back? Do we perform a cost/benefit analysis? Do we engage in extortion through monetary means, or physical, or mental coercion? Whose cry do we hear the oppressed, the orphan, window? Instead, do we hear the voices of the rich and powerful? Are our eyes, ears and hearts blind to suffering?
HEAR, LEARN, AND ACT!
Peace, John
Monday, August 11, 2025