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Hey, Steven ... I take back my prediction of an NBA title and a Stanley Cup coming to Dallas this year. The Mavs don't have what it takes. They're true colors are finally starting to rear their ugly heads. But I'll still stand behind the Stars. They may be down 2-1, but they'll come back. Salo's keeping the Oilers together so far, but he'll cave in soon.

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Monday, April 14, 2003
Monday of Holy Week

First Reading:
Responsorial Psalm:
Gospel:

Isaiah 42:1-7
Psalm 27:1-3, 13-14
John 12:1-11

Judge thou, O Lord, them that wrong me: overthrow them that fight against me. Take hold of arms and shield: and rise up to help me.

-- Psalm xxxiv. 1,2

The following is, as usual, from The Word Among Us:

In the week before his death, Jesus stayed in Bethany, near Jerusalem. He arrived "six days before the Passover" (John 12:1), giving himself some time to prepare for the great feast and for his final sacrifice. Let's follow Jesus' example this week. Let's set these days aside as a time to prepare for Easter by deepening our understanding of the redemption Jesus wrought.

We've all heard that forgiveness of our sins is the first blessing that flows from the cross. But there are so many others! Mary of Bethany demonstrated one at the dinner she gave to honor Jesus. He had recently raised her brother Lazarus from the dead, so there must have been quite a sense of awe in the room. But then Mary crowned the evening when she anointed Jesus' feet with an alabaster jar full of costly perfume (John 12:3).

Far from being a waste, as Judas claimed (John 12:4-5), Mary's extravagant act was very appropriate. For Mary, the gesture was probably a sign of love and gratitude for the love Jesus had shown in raising Lazarus. But on another level, her action shows the kind of adoration and praise that naturally arise when we contemplate the love that God has shown to us.

In prayer today, contemplate the love that Jesus poured out on the cross. By his death, he made it possible for you to be drawn into intimate communion with him. His love for you is eternal, ever fresh, unconditional, and creative. He has rescued you from death and filled you with divine life. He wants to hold you close to his heart.

Let these truths sink into your heart. You will always have your responsibilities to the poor, and to your family and community. But during this week, why not make a special commitment to worship Jesus, who loves you so much? "Waste" your time and energy in adoration this week, so that the sweet fragrance of your worship can fill the entire house of God.

"Lord Jesus, I adore you. I am amazed at the perfect love and intimate fellowship you have lavished on me through your cross."

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God bless.

AC

Hey, Steven ... I take back my prediction of an NBA title and a Stanley Cup coming to Dallas this year.

Dang. I was close to bringing this to your attention myself. I should have known I'd get a pre-emptive strike. :-)