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Saturday, June 28, 2014

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Immaculate Heart of Mary


Lamentations 2:2, 10-14, 18-19
Psalm 74:1-7, 20-21
Matthew 8:5-17 or
Luke 2:41-51

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obedience school

"Just give an order." —Matthew 8:8

Jesus learned obedience from what He suffered (Heb 5:8). Even to His dying day, Jesus grew in wisdom (Lk 2:52) regarding obedience. Therefore, we also will always have a lot to learn regarding obedience.

The centurion whose servant was healed by Jesus can teach us the following things about obedience:

  • We should ask the Lord to give us commands (Mt 8:8).
  • Obedience is often the way to bring healing to ourselves and to others (Mt 8:9).
  • Obedience is an expression of faith (Mt 8:10).
  • Certain works of God happen at the moment we obey (Mt 8:13; see also Jn 4:52-53).

"Just as through one man's disobedience all became sinners, so through one Man's obedience all shall become just" (Rm 5:19). Jesus "humbled Himself, obediently accepting even death, death on a cross!" (Phil 2:8) Learn obedience as Jesus did. Be obedient as Jesus was. Through the intercession of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, by obedience to the truth purify yourself for a genuine love (1 Pt 1:22). Realize that each time you receive Jesus in Holy Communion you ask Him to give you orders (Mt 8:8). Live a life of obedience (see 1 Pt 1:2).

Prayer:  Father, teach me obedience in any way necessary.

Promise:  "Rise up, shrill in the night, at the beginning of every watch; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord; lift up your hands to Him." —Lam 2:19

Praise:  Walter was not able to have victory over sexual temptations until he dedicated himself to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Reference:  (For a related teaching, order our leaflet Obedience School or on tape titled Obeying God as audio AV 62-3 or video V-62.)

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, January 2, 2014

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