August 27, 2003, 21st Sunday in ordinary time.

A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah.

Thus says the Lord to Shabna, master of the palace,

I will thrust you from your office and pull you down from your station.

On that day, I will summon my servant,akum, son of Hilkaya.

I will clothe him with your robe and gird him with your sash,

and give over to him your authority.

He shall be a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem

and to the house of Judah. I will place the key of the

house of David on Eliacum's shoulder. When he opens, no one shall shut. When he shuts, no one

shall open. I will fix him like a peg in a sure spot to be a place of honor for his family.

The Word of the Lord.

Lord, your love is eternal, do not forsake the work of your hands. Lord, your love is eternal, do not forsake the work of your hands. Lord, your love is eternal, do not forsake the work of your hands. I will give thanks to you, O Lord, with all my heart,

for you have heard the words of my mouth.

In the presence of the angels, I will sing your praise.

I will worship at your holy temple.

Lord, your love at your holy temple.

Lord, your love is eternal.

Do not forsake the work of your hands.

I will give thanks to your name Because of your kindness and your truth

When I called you answered me

You build up strength within me

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