The Introit recalls that as we now receive "Mercy," yet one day we must stand before "Justice." How necessary then the "Prayer" for "doing and thinking" what is right. Active participation in the Mass, advised Pope St. Pius X, is the indispensable source of the true Christian spirit, how to pray and how to live.
The Epistle bids us reflect who you are, "not debtors to the flesh," by which "you shall die"; but "sons of God, joint heirs with Christ," by Whom you shall live.
The Gospel dramatizes this dignity and duty in the parable of the Steward, the meaning of which is "be wise," you children of God; use material treasures so as to make eternal friends; exercise your talents in the spiritual and corporal works of mercy, and those whom you help to save will help save you.
Finally, the Offertory assures salvation to the humble, warns the proud of their final humbling.
Christianity is not so much a "giving up" but rather an "exchange" of "gifts" (Secret), the human for the Divine, to bring healing to "soul and body" Postcommunion.
Had it not been impeded by the Sunday, the 15th July would have been the Feast of St. Henry Emperor C., Holy Roman Emperor and Duke of Bavaria, who passed away in 1024. He was miraculously cured after being taken seriously ill while visiting Monte Cassino through the intercession of St. Benedict. He devoted himself to rebuilding churches. Upon his death, he left all his possessions to the Church. Although not com-memorated in the Masses using the newer rubrics, we should pray to the Saint for holiness and generosity.