August 19, Thursday Weekday 

I will pour clean water on you and wash away all your sins. — Ezekiel 36:25 

Mass Readings: Ezekiel 36:23-28 / Matthew 22:1-14 

New Hearts 

Today’s first reading offers great news for those times when we lose heart. We all have them. A loved one betrays us. Our great plan, which once held such hope and promise, turns to dust. Our ability to persevere, day in and day out, disappears. 

Through the prophet Ezekiel, the Lord tells the people of Israel — and you and me: “I will give you a new heart and place a new spirit within you.” Better still, “You shall be my people, and I will be your God.” Our God, not just during the good times but during the really rough times, too. Always with us because He has named us as His own. We’re His children. You’re His beloved child in whom He takes delight. 

Prayer: Help me persevere, Lord. Help me persevere.