Readings: Micah 6:1-4, 6-8; Psalm 50; Matthew 12:38-42

Our first reading is from the prophet Micah, who is reminding the Jewish people of the true meaning of religion.  The people asked him how they should worship the Lord.  Through the prophet, the Lord tells them not to act like their neighbours and do human sacrifice, but to be true to the Covenant and to act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with the Lord.

The Responsorial Psalm reminds us to be faithful to the new covenant. It is not sacrifice that the Lord wants. He only wants thanksgiving for all that he has given us, the new chosen people. Current opinion in Judaism was that the Messiah would perform a unique kind of miracle, one that would be flamboyant and Jesus did no such miracle.  He compared his sign to that of Jonah, which brought the Ninevites to repentance and conversion, to a new way of life.

The leaders of the Jewish people would not accept this sign. We need good dispositions to be open to the message and teachings of Jesus. May today be a good day of learning and openness to what Jesus is asking us from today forward.  May God bless you all and keep you safe.
Fr. Tom