This week we hear of two examples of dishonesty, one about some businessmen who not only cheat their customers but are also hypocrites about it: They impatiently but piously wait for after the “new moon,” when commerce was prohibited, so they can get back to shafting people with their crooked scales.

Whatever our differences, most of us put self-preservation very high on our lists. Even a soldier or martyr willing to die for a cause usually prefers to survive it. Mothers and fathers who make great sacrifices for their children still look for a fragment of the day that belongs to them alone. Whatever else we desire to do, above all we want to live.

IF YOU’RE honest in small things, you’ll be honest in big things; if you’re a crook in small things, you’ll be a crook in big things. If you’re not honest in small jobs, who will put you in charge of the store?

Thieves broke into the San Bernardino County Sexual Assault Services office late one night and stole six computers, a laptop, and other valuables. As the police were investigating the crime scene and canvassing the area, they answered questions from neighbors about the purpose of the burgled organization, explaining that the nonprofit assisted victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence.

Brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins, and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.

The ways of the world are very much on trial in the readings this week. The dishonest traders in the Book of Amos may have forgotten their people, but God will not forget what they have done.

Most of us know intuitively what prayer is, but how do we pray at all times and “in every place,” as scripture says? One way is to set an intention for each task before us.

Find out how much God has given you and from it take what you need; the remainder is needed by others. —Saint Augustine