Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome
Intention: That all citizens will learn how to come together to end the epidemics of fear and violence that grip so many of our nation’s households and neighborhoods.
Today’s Gospel | John 2:13-22
Since the Passover of the Jews was near, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. He found in the temple area those who sold oxen, sheep, and doves, as well as the money-changers seated there. He made a whip out of cords and drove them all out of the temple area, with the sheep and oxen, and spilled the coins of the money-changers and overturned their tables, and to those who sold doves he said, “Take these out of here, and stop making my Father’s house a marketplace.” His disciples recalled the words of Scripture, Zeal for your house will consume me. At this the Jews answered and said to him, “What sign can you show us for doing this?” Jesus answered and said to them, “Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up.” The Jews said, “This temple has been under construction for forty-six years, and you will raise it up in three days?” But he was speaking about the temple of his Body. Therefore, when he was raised from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this, and they came to believe the Scripture and the word Jesus had spoken.
Meditation on the Dedication of Churches | Saint John Baptist de La Salle
Consider that what ought to encourage us to have deep sentiments of respect and devotion in these holy places is the thought that this is where God is pleased to give us grace with very special generosity, goodness, and mercy. This is where the Father of mercies welcomes with open arms the prodigal, where the Good Shepherd brings back to the fold the strayed sheep, where the afflicted find comfort, and where the sick are healed, the weak are strengthened, and the tempted are given new power over their enemies. Finally, this is where God listens favorably to the prayers we offer and is pleased to fill with graces those who have recourse to his goodness.
Prayer
Eternal Father, you are the creator of all things. Everything and everyone is a reflection of your love and perfection. Still, we often corrupt this goodness with words and actions that disrespect or take advantage of others? How is it that we can insult your presence by treating one other badly? Lord, teach us to see your sacred light in every person. Teach us to care for each other as temples of your presence and give to each other reverence and love. We ask this of you who lives and reigns with your Son and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.