Readings: Lamentations 2:2,10-14,18-19; Psalm 74; Matthew 8:5-17

The first reading is the result of the Exile of the Jewish people and the destruction of the city and the temple because of the non-keeping of the covenant of the Jewish people.  That exile lasted about 80 years so you can understand why this book is so sad.  But God is true to his covenant and He will keep his promise and send the Savior, Jesus Christ.

Psalm 74 refrain says it all: "Lord, forgot not the life of your poor ones".

In the Gospel Jesus is amazed by the faith of the centurion and, because of his faith, Jesus works a miracle for him.  This is in contrast of the unbelief of the Jewish people. Then Jesus goes on to cure St. Peter's mother in law. Jesus is full of miracles for all of us so do not be afraid: continue to trust in Jesus and His love for us to protect us from evil.

Today is also the feast of Saint Cyril of Alexandria, a Doctor of the Church, who gave our Blessed Mother the title of "Theotokos" which means "God-bearer"'. We honor Mary this Saturday and every Saturday as the Mother of Jesus and our Mother who intercedes for us every day. Stay safe in the names of Jesus and Mary.
God bless you.
 Fr. Tom