Saturday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

Today's Mass Readings

Today the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.

Throughout the United States, we celebrate this day with patriotic hymns, parades, barbecues, picnics, baseball games, family gatherings, hot dog eating contests, and, of course, fireworks. As Americans, we are grateful for the gift of freedom and committed to the dream of “liberty and justice for all.” This nation was blessed with extraordinary resources and has provided a high standard of living for millions of people. The United States has offered great hope to many people, but its history is not without struggle, hardship, and many challenges.

Perhaps the challenge facing us today is keeping God as the center of our lives and seeing God as the source of all blessings. Each one of us, both individually and collectively, needs to make our own “declaration,” placing our faith and trust in Jesus Christ alone. Whatever challenges we encounter, we are called to witness our faith in Christ’s saving power and to be instruments of love to renew and inspire our nation and world.

Let us pray for this great country and in gratitude for the many gifts we have received.

Reflection by Fr. Paul Sheller, OSB