I am going to deviate from the scriptural readings and use a different text for our reflection today. The Opening Prayer at mass is called the "Collect" because it is intended to sum up or gather together the intentions of the day's sacrifice. Today's Collect reads, "Be near, O Lord, to those who plead before you, and look kindly on those who place their hope in your mercy, that, cleansed from the stain of their sins, they may persevere in holy living and be made full heirs of your promise." Wow, is not that exactly what we want to pray for today? That God is near to us, cleanse us, that we may persevere and ultimately receive eternal life. And to this prayer, may the people of God in one voice proclaim, "Amen."