Month: July 2024

July 7, 2024
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Washington, D.C.

Ezekiel 2:2-5
Psalm 123:1-2, 2, 3-4
2nd Corinthians 12:7-10
Mark 6:1-6

The relationship between pride and gratitude is very much at the heart of the readings of our Mass this Sunday. Without gratitude to almighty God for His gift of our homeland and community, natural pride becomes egotistical and destructive of the communal fabric of the family and of our nation. In the first reading, God sends Ezekiel to prophesy to the Israelites who have become a proud and rebellious people who have ungratefully rejected Him and His desires for them, choosing instead to follow their own selfish desires under the colorful brand of false gods. The Lord asks Ezekiel’s fidelity more than He promises Ezekiel success, “Thus says the Lord God! Whether they heed or resist — for they are a rebellious house — they shall know that a prophet has been among them.”