A WORD FOR TODAY 12 JULY 2021

*A WORD FOR TODAY*

DO NOT LOVE THE WORLD MORE THAN GOD THE CREATOR*

_"He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he who loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and he who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me." (Matthew 10:37-38)_

_*The world and everything in it is created by God and it is passing away, therefore, at no time should we love the things of this life more than God who created it, because He who made everything in this life has better things awaiting those who will endure until the end.*_

_We are pilgrims here on earth and so long as we do not allow our hearts to be swayed into loving the things of this life more than God, we will be ok. But if we lose our concentration and start to focus on material things and abandon God our maker we shall be the ones to lose in the end._

_*If we love God and remain with Him, we must definitely experience persecution and difficulties, but He will always be there to help us navigate the stormy waters and bring us to safety.*_

_We see in first reading of today how the people of Israel started suffering in the hands of the Egyptians when a Pharoah who did not know Joseph took over. However, the more they persecuted then out of jealousy and hatred, the more they continued to grow and expand. Their help will definitely come from the Lord who will eventually raise up Moses to lead them out of Egypt to the promised land where they will be able to worship their God peacefully._

_*God was with the Israelites and the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied. The Egyptians became afraid of them and they suffered so much in their hands, but God did not abandon them. This should be an encouragement to all those who suffer in the hands of others for no just cause. When you are persecuted and rejected by others on account of your faith or commitment to Christ, do not give up, instead, love God the more and put your trust in Him, for He will help you and give you the grace to overcome.*_

_Jesus warns His disciples in the gospel about loving the world and everything in it more than Him. If we are going to be friends with Jesus, we must constantly make Him the first in our lives, we must love Him more than family, friends, possessions, status, positions e.t.c. We must be ready to carry our cross and follow Him._

_*Love God with all your heart, be loyal to Him, trust Him at all times and He will always be there for you in good and difficult times. Our help definitely is in the name of the Lord. Therefore, do not let anything take the place of God in your heart. Give Him your all and your reward will be great in heaven on the last day.*_

_Good morning dearest one. Smile😊as you begin your day and do have a wonderful day and a blessed new week. May Jesus hgive you grace to love Him more than the things of this life. Amen. *And may the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.*_

*Meditation:* Exodus 1:8-14,22/Psalm 124:1-8/Matthew 10:34-11:1

*Watch-Word:* Our help is in the name of the Lord.

*Love God with all your heart and you will never lose anything in the end. You have a great reward*

(Monday of the 15th week in the ordinary time. Year I)