The Lord is close to the brokenhearted. — Psalm 34:19 

Mass readings: Wisdom 2:1,12-22 / John 7:1-2,10,25-30 

Winning Friends and Influencing People 

Today’s first reading is further proof that your mama was right. As if any were needed. “The wicked said among themselves, thinking not aright . . . [let’s kill] the just one.” And what was it your mother taught? Be careful when it comes to choosing your companions. 

It’s easy to begin thinking and acting the way the people around us think and act. The people we choose to be around. Good attracts good and reinforces good. Not-so-good does the same with not-so-good. We all know this. We’ve all experienced it. A friend, colleague or family member falls in with the wrong crowd and . . . . To follow Christ is to be that little light, that bit of salt, that influences others. That helps them think and act “aright.” 

Prayer: Dear Lord, help young people who are attracted to what’s sinful.