Tuesday, February 11, 2020 — Fith week of Ordinary time — Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 7, 1-13 — Incline my heart to your demands; give me the grace of your law, Lord.

"The Pharisees and the scribes gathered around Jesus". We too meet every day or every Sunday in church, but is it really with Christ that we meet, or is it around a person, an idea, or anything else besides God? Is it out of love or out of fear or out of habit?

In addition, Jesus warns us against the appearances and obligations of traditions because laws are not made to hinder. The commandment must set us free and arouse in us a continual desire for God. So let our relationship with God not be a mere habit or an obligation but an impulse of sincere and genuine love.

Also on this 11th February, the Church celebrates the 28th World Day of Prayer for the Sick, Physicians and Caregivers. May through Mary's intercession they be able to confidently associate their sufferings with those of Christ so that they may share in his glory. Amen.