Since at least the fourth century, it has been custom to offer Saturday morning liturgy in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Liturgical Renewal of the Second Vatican Council brought together a collection of Masses honoring Mary under various titles to be used whenever there is not another saint being honored on that day.

The scripture readings should however continue in the sequence of the usually following a theme, or one that prepares the theme of the weekend.

During this week we have been reading from Genesis. In today's pericope the conspiracy by Rebecca and Jacob to defraud the older son Esau is certainly one of deceit and injustice. The message which God seems to want to deliver is that even through sibling rivalry and maternal conspiracy God is able to triumph.

Very often like Esau and Rebecca we may be victims or even perpetrators of trickery, rather than truth in order to obtain our objectives. But Mary and the saints are examples to us of the blessedness that comes from putting aside our own wishes and desires and searching to know and do God's will.

In today's gospel Jesus speaks about new cloth, new skins, new wine, and a new kingdom all in terms of a new creation, a new relationship of life which he has restored by the power of his cross.

The cross which is foolishness to human wisdom and a challenge for true discipleship. Jesus says: Go like lambs into midst of wolves and bring no provisions or protection. Wherever you go offer peace, and if it is not accepted, take it back graciously.

Do not rejoice in whatever things you must do, but rather in who you are, children of God.