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Today we move onto the third book of your Pentateuche, God our Father, the Book of Leviticus which tackles the various celebrations you have stipulated the children of Israel to celebrate until they have entered your Promised Land.
It is good to know the major celebrations you have set before them while still wandering at the desert have become the roots of our many liturgical celebrations that have found fulfillment in your Son Jesus Christ who is the basis of every sacrament and feast.
Unfortunately, dear Father, like the children of Israel, even us until now have forgotten your saving presence in our midst when we were wandering in the desert of darkness and trials, sufferings and sins.
These, therefore, are the festivals of the Lord on which you shall proclaim a sacred assembly, and offer as an oblation to the Lord burnt offerings and cereal offerings, sacrifices and libations, as prescribed for each day. (Leviticus 23:37)
Forgive us, merciful God, when we forget in our worship and celebrations that its center is you alone, not us nor the festivities nor the rituals prescribed; let us remember your continuing presence among us marred by our many sins when we break away from you; hence, the need for oblations and offerings for us to be reconciled in you again.
Jesus came to his native place and taught the people in their synagogue. They were astonished and said, "Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds?" And they took offense at him. And he did not work many mighty deeds there because of their lack of faith. (Matthew 13:54, 57, 58)
Let us be open to you, loving Father through your Son Jesus Christ who had come to reconcile us to you by leading our celebrations so we can have a perfect offering for you in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass; Do not let us imitate his folks at Nazareth who refused to accept him that he was not able to make any miracle for their lack of faith in him. Amen.
