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The third day of the Novena: A docile heart.
2:24
Today's reading is from the Gospel of Matthew.
Matthew 6:4
‘Beware of practising your piety before others in order to be seen by them; for then you have no reward from your Father in heaven.
‘So whenever you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be praised by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be done in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.'
3:31
How inspiring that Jesus himself is docile to the Holy Spirit. He doesn't make decisions alone. No, he waits to be led, to be inspired by the Holy Spirit. That involved getting upbefore dawn and going off to lonely places to be alone with his Father so that silence in his heart could be in tune with the Holy Spirit. We too have received the Holy Spirit to guide our decisions. It is good to take time with the Lord and to ask for guidance to see whether the Spirit brings a sense of peace.
Lord, enlighten our minds to make good decisions, free from resistance, fear and self-preoccupation. May all we do give glory to God and be of service to others.
6:00
Lord Jesus Christ, your heart was moved with love for the men and women who came for help in their need. You healed the sick, you fed the hungry, you forgave sinners, you cried over Jerusalem. Above all, you showed to those who were prepared to listen the way to true life, for you are the Way the Truth and the Life.
Lord, your heart is still moved today by your people and their many needs. Open our hearts to hear your word, to accept your love, and to respond to your call. In particular, I beg you to grant me the favour I ask during this novena (make you request silently), provided that it will contribute to my own eternal good and to the building up of your Kingdom of justice, peace and love here on earth.
Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you.
Amen.