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Sunday, July 27, 2008

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17th Sunday Ordinary Time


1 Kings 3:5, 7-12
Romans 8:28-30
Psalm 119:57, 72, 76-77, 127-130
Matthew 13:44-52

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feeling inadequate?

"I am a mere youth, not knowing at all how to act." —1 Kings 3:7

Do you feel inadequate? Maybe you don't have the slightest idea how you should act in a certain situation or in most situations. Like Solomon, ask the Lord for an understanding heart (1 Kgs 3:9). The Lord will make you more than adequate.

Some of you feel it's too late. Your life is already in shambles. You've been abused, broken, and shattered. However, the Lord promises to make "all things work together for the good of those who love" Him (Rm 8:28). Give your brokenness to Jesus, and He will use it as raw material for a miracle. In Him, you can do all things (see Phil 4:13).

You may feel that your resources, education, energy, etc. are inadequate. Nevertheless, the Lord tells you that you can purchase the most precious treasure of all, that is, the kingdom of God. He has made it affordable for you. God's kingdom does not cost a certain amount but a certain percentage: 100% (Mt 13:44-46). You can purchase it but can't purchase anything else if you do.

You don't have to feel inadequate. In Christ, you have understanding, miracles, strength (Phil 4:13), hope (Col 1:27), energy (Col 1:29), joy (Jn 15:11), peace (Jn 16:33). In Christ, you have God's kingdom. You are more than adequate.

Prayer:  Father, may I rejoice in my exalted position as Your child.

Promise:  "The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant's search for fine pearls. When he found one really valuable pearl, he went back and put up for sale all that he had and bought it." —Mt 13:45-46

Praise:  Praise Jesus, "the Resurrection and the Life" (Jn 11:25), Whose name is exalted above the heavens!

Reference:  (For a related teaching, order our tape on Hope on audio AV 70-1 or video V-70.)

Rescript:  †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, January 4, 2008

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