Today’s readings invite us into deeper reflection on God’s appointed times, the enduring power of His Word, and the cost of prophetic witness.
First Reading
(Leviticus 23:1, 4–11, 15–16, 27, 34–37)
“The Lord said to Moses, ‘These are the appointed festivals of the Lord, which you shall celebrate as times of holy convocation… The Passover … the festival of Unleavened Bread … raise the sheaf … count seven full weeks … the day of Atonement … the festival of Booths … these are the Lord’s appointed festivals … proclaim as sacred assemblies … each on its proper day.’”
The Lord establishes a rhythm of holy days, times set apart for worship, gratitude, and remembrance. These sacred markers draw us into communion with Him, anchoring our lives in divine purpose. In a world of constant motion, God invites us to pause, reflect, and remember His saving deeds.
Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 81) “Sing with joy to God our help.”
Let our hearts rise in thanksgiving, recognizing God as both our strength and our salvation. In every season, festival or famine we are called to sing joyfully to the One who sustains us.
Alleluia
(1 Peter 1:25)
“The word of the Lord remains forever; this is the word that has been proclaimed to you.”
In a time of shifting truths and cultural confusion, we are reminded that God’s Word is eternal. It does not bend with opinion nor expire with age. It is the firm foundation on which we stand and the light that guides our every step.
The Gospel Reading:
(Matthew 13:54–58)
“Jesus said to them, ‘A prophet is not without honor except in his own town, among his relatives and in his own home.’ He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. He was amazed at their lack of faith.”
Even Jesus faced rejection, especially among those closest to Him. Familiarity bred contempt, and their skepticism blocked the flow of grace. How often do we dismiss God’s work because it appears too close, too ordinary? This Gospel warns us that spiritual blindness can hide in the places we assume are most faithful.
Feast Day of St. Alphonsus Liguori (1696–1787)
Today we celebrate the life of St. Alphonsus Liguori, a brilliant young man who left behind privilege and legal prestige at 16 years old age, to follow God’s deeper call. Ordained at 30, he dedicated his life to preaching, writing, and ministering to the most neglected. In 1732, he founded the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, the Redemptorists, to bring sacraments and spiritual care to the rural poor and youth.
St. Alphonsus understood that divine justice is never separated from mercy. His heart was turned completely toward God, a life of metanoia, a radical change in direction. His writings on moral theology emphasized compassion without compromise, offering a path of hope for the burdened soul.
In the reflections for today, from Leviticus, we are reminded of the value of order, holy times of gathering, gratitude, and remembrance. Where might God be asking you to set aside sacred time?
From Matthew’s Gospel, we see that resistance often comes from the familiar. Are there voices in your life, perhaps even your and my own, that dismiss what God is doing because it feels “too close”?
From the life of St. Alphonsus, we learn that true justice flows from mercy, and true faith is often forged in rejection. How might you proclaim the Word more boldly, even when it’s unwelcome.
As we begin this new month, may we learn to recognize God’s appointed moments in our lives. May we proclaim His eternal Word with confidence, live justice through compassion, and remain faithful even when misunderstood.
And on a personal note, my cousin’s name is Alphonsus. That, too, is a reminder: sometimes holiness runs quietly in the family.
St. Alphonsus Liguori, pray for us.
God bless you, and may you have a grace-filled and joyful August.
-Pal Ronnie-
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