August 5, Wednesday Weekday

Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.-- Psalm 106:4

Mass readings: Numbers 13:1-2,25-14:1,26-29,34-35 / Matthew 15:21-28

Life for the Asking

First come, first served? Both readings today are about latecomers receiving what the ''chosen'' have rejected. When the Israelites are afraid to occupy the land God has picked out for them, He gives it instead to the next generation. When the Jewish establishment rejects Jesus, He shares His Good News with the Gentiles.

A favorite Simon and Garfunkel song of mine begins, ''Here is my song for the asking.'' That's how Jesus offers healing to the Canaanite woman, and it's the way He offers me eternal life. Pure gift, pure love, without any condition. The only way I can not receive this treasure is by refusing to accept it. Today I think of the times I have refused or ignored God's love, and ask forgiveness, confident that His mercy is always there for the asking.

Prayer: Merciful God, thank You for the gift of Your love.