Musings

March 28, 2021

On this Sunday, we celebrate the memorial of Jesus coming into Jerusalem to accomplish the paschal feast later this week. The Paschal Feast consists of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection, commonly known by some as PDR.

In some cases the solemn possession begins outside, leading into the Narthex where palms will be picked up by attendees at the Mass. The procession will continue in the Church Proper and to the altar where Mass begins with the priest blessing the people. The Liturgy of the Word will be read, using Isaiah 50:4-7. Then there will be four speakers, about the passion taken from Holy Scripture and representing one person and three groups: the voice of the Lord, our own voice(crowd), the voice of the world(under the dominion of Satan), and the voice of the devil. They will be listed as, a cross for Christ(priest speaker), N for narrator, V for voice,  and C for Crowd.

This will set the Mass in a slightly different way. The central part of the Reception of the body and blood of Christ, the Preface, Communion Prayer offerings, and the Final blessing will be followed.

 

February 15, 2021

On the Sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time, Sunday ,February 15, 2021:

The Summary of passage of Leviticus 13:1-2 and 44-46 Summary

Moses and Aaron are instructed by Yahweh. When a man has a sore or blotch on his skin, he is to be taken to Aaron or one of his priests to confirm it. If this is so, he is to rent(tear) his garments and muffle(cover his beard) his beard and shall cry out "Leper" as he moves about in his community. He shall make his home in a tent outside the community. Once the sore was no more, he was healed and could return; many were not healed, We can see a parallel with today's virus, Covid19

January 26, 2021

In this passage, we learn about Jonah's obedience and The Ninevites' repentance. Jonah was sent by God to Nineveh to inform the people that they must obey God. 

The same message is with us today, God's mercy and forgiveness, as we go marching along on our different journeys. 

God listened. Are we listening? Let us pray for greater understanding of God's will and the strength to carry it out.

November, 22, 2020

The Gospel Reading, Matthew 25:13-46 Meditation

This parable speaks about the end times when Jesus will return for His Second Coming. We have had all this time, working in the vineyard, listening to the prophets and Jesus when he walked the earth after his Resurrection, celebrating the sacraments, and yet are we ready?

Jesus describes the scene, telling us all the nations will come before him to hear what he will say.

He will place the sheep on the right and the goats on the left. Those on the right, the righteous ones will enter his kingdom; they have served him well by feeding the poor. Those on the left will not, as they did not heed his words and failed to serve those who needed help.

 He will answer them,"Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of the least of my brethren, you did not do for me." "Those will go off to eternal  punishment."

Which way will you choose to serve?

September 26, 2020

Musing on Gospel reading, Ezekiel 18:25-28

God tells Ezekiel , his prophet from the Babylonian  Exile, to tell the Israelites to return to God. All along the people thought their relationship with God was fine; God did not see it their way. All iniquity has consequences . In this case , the people would lose their right to heaven, But there was time and they could change their course. They would not spiritually die, but could live if they changed the evil ways and returned to God. 

Let us , the people of the New Testament , who find themselves, living in ways not of God transform our lives and return to the Lord  and let us not delay.

June 28, 2020

2Kings 4:8-11, 14-16

Traveling in the biblical world was not easy for the prophets in spreading the word of God... and Elisha (after Elijah" going up  to heaven in the chariot."), found it that way also.

In Shunem, he and Gehazi , his servant, met a woman of influence who was very kind.

She saw Elisha as a holy man and wanted to invite him into her home.

He, in turn asked Gehazi in what way could  he help her?

Let us as followers of the prophets pray to be alert to the needs of others and reach out to help when it seems prudent.

June 7, 2020

Exodus34:4b-6; 8=9:                                                                                                                             

Feast of the Most Holy Trinity

Stiff-necked people versus humble  people : 

The Israelites had become impatient while waiting for Moses to return from Mount Sinai and seeing God. . They created a golden calf. God was very angry b/ c of their display of lack of faith through actions.In this passage, Moses asks God to change His mind. ,   saying ,  "if i find favor with you,, do come along in our company." And God did give them another chance. 
-Moses  Included himself , as he was part of the people, though a leader .  

We see two examples; a stiffnecked people and a leader who was humble.

 June 7, 2020

May 17, the Sixth Sunday of Easter and then all is fine until followers, like Phillip who scattered to the city of Samaria to assist the people in conflict brought upon by the Hebrews and Hellenists. Phillip was successful in keeping the Church united and spreading the Gospel .As Samaria accepted the Gospel , the Church in Jerusalem was informed and sent Peter and John  to Samaria. It was important for those who had been baptized to  also receive the Holy Spirit. Peter and John prayed about this and were present for the people, who did receive this gift. All were overjoyed.

April 15, 2020

On -Acts 2:42-47    

Please take  your bibles and turn to Acts.  

In four ways, the early Christians devoted themselves to : the teaching of the Apostles, the communal life, the breaking of the bread, and the prayers.

Can we emulate this today as followers?

Can we give a reason for our hope? 

February 21, 2020

It is clear that in order to have a deeper  relationship with God, we must display it in the way we relate to our fellow man and woman. It is God's ways that we must emulate, not the ways of the worldly. The writer of Leviticus, one of the the five books of the Old Testament,says, simply put,we must love one another, yet not find  favor with one's actions on occasions and temper our actions so that we do not bear grudges or hatred toward our brothers or sisters. All of us l are made in the image and likeness of God.

As we make preparations for the holy season of Lent next week may this be our focus.

Please turn to 1-4 verses of Scrripture on  each of the forty days of Lent to help us to achieve this goal.

God's graces will abound,through the Holy Spirit, if we are open to receiving them.

January 23, 2020

First Letter of Paul to the Corinthians:

Paul encourages the people to remain united and in agreement with what they say about Christ,.This meant not getting into different groups, as they begin to gather in the community of believers. They can lose sight of Jesus and claim they belong to different leaders, like Paul, Apollos, or Cephas.. Furthermore, he  says he was told by Chloe's people this was happening!  In so doing  divisiveness  was occurring.

 It is important to know that someone is always watching us. Let our actions reflect what we believe.

December 08, 2019

 Let us make time to listen to others; rather than focus only what we must get done.

We can do this by starting our day  by closing our eyes for 5 minutes, placing ourselves in a quiet place  and asking God to teach us how to listen.

After 5 minutes are over, we can then bless ourselves and move about in our day.

Today , let us meditate on 1 Peter 3:15-16

"Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks for a reason for your hope..."

In this way, we take a look-back at what we believe and a look-ahead to what we want to strengthen in our beliefs.

September 12,2019

Wisdom 9: 13-18b

Two questions are asked to God::

"Who can know God's counsel"...

"Who ever knew God's counsel, except you had given wisdom and sent your holy spirit from on high?"

Theologians say that it has been written  as if the wise  King Solomon was questioning God.

Now that we know, where it comes from  we must ask for an open heart to receive wisdom.

Man must be open to the divine if this is to bear fruit in his life..

August 18, 2019

From Luke 12:49-53

He reminds them there will be division among family members. Jesus in his fervor speaks to the disciples of his forthcoming baptism and how he is anticipating this greatly so that He will "set the world on fire." Fire has a special meaning of purification, judgment and the Holy Spirit who comes in the form of fiery tongues. Let each of us meditate on this time of a baptism of the spirit.

Let us recall this special time Jesus had with His disciples.

May 30, 2019

Ascension Thursday , Acts 1:1-11

Jesus presented Himself alive  to the people  after His suffering and death during  forty days. and reminded the Apostles  of  the kingdom of God which was coming  Every thing will come in God's time.As he ended His Gospel,he reviewed what would happen. They must remain in Jerusalem , where  they would be baptized in the Holy Spirit and would take  this witness  to the ends of the earth.

Jesus then  was lifted up and "the cloud took Him from their sight."

Let us read, reflect,respond,and rest on this passage, in Jesus's name we pray.

Today many of our children are graduating;  we encourage them to go forth  and do  as the Apostles were told.

April 13, 2019

Palm Sunday 

Jesus will be the sacrificial Lamb who displays obedience, love and respect for  the Father. He did  this through His actions, not only His words.  He would bare our guilt  and through His  suffering we would be  made  righteous. What greater love for us did he display over 2000 years ago on this day when He rode  through  the streets of Jerusalem  on his donkey, before His ultimate sacrifice of life on Good Friday. See Luke 19:28-40.

March 06, 2019

Taken from Year C on Ash Wednesday from  NABRE.

Last Sunday on March 3rd, in our Readings  we were reminding of the importance of listening to the way a person speaks and then reflecting on what he or she has said.

There are two ways a person can speak: as if he is corruptible or incorruptible, as Paul's states  in 1Corinthians 15:54-58.The corruptible person  can embody himself with the incorruptible when he is "firm, steadfast,, always devoted to the work of the Lord", knowing that in the Lord"...his work is not without value.

Today we begin Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent, an opportune time to bring this to pass in our own lives.The prophet Joel , in Joel 2:12-18, tells us , as he told  the people of the early Church, to listen to God, by returning " with your whole heart." when  he repeats what he has heard from God." This applies to us today.

This is a flow in our lives that can be enduring, if we come with open hearts , a willingness to change,  and making use of the grace of God that abounds and surpasses all understanding.

February 02, 2019

Jeremiah tells the readers that the Lord "has come to him."-Jer. 1:4-5

He recognizes that the Lord has called him to be a prophet in 626 BC, right  before King Josiah, of Judah, turned the people back to God and .away from evil and idolatrous practices, noted in 2Kings 22:3-13. 

 Jeremiah  mentions God's words and how God said that he knew him in his mother's womb.and that  he dedicated and appointed him.God, subsequently, asks him if he will gird up his loins; then God  promises he will not leave him without protection against the evil of that day. Strife will come and he will survive.

There is a great message of hope and trust for the reader,who now can understand God's great love for Jeremiah and for each of us.

December 18, 2018

(Taken From 3rd week of Advent- The Prophet Zephaniah...The First Reading: Zephaniah  3:14-18)

Historical: Zephaniah, the prophet,  lived during 640BC-609BC. He became a prophet during the time Josiah  became king of Judah, following  the death of his father Amon.

The previous kings, Amon  and Manasseh worshiped pagan gods and Zephaniah and other spiritual leaders were present to support Josiah in changing  these practices.

November 9, 2018

Elijah went to the city of Zarephath, located on the coast of Lebanon,and spoke to a widow who was gathering sticks to prepare something for her son and her to eat.She was anticipating their death, d/t a famine, and was very sad.  Elijah asked her to first prepare "a little cake" for him before she prepared for her son and her self. Obeying Elijah, who also told her that the flour and oil would not "run dry" because of her faith,  found that the oil and flour did not run dry...miraculously, and there was food for another year,,,as God told her through Elijah.

August 28, 2018

1)In the 1st Reading from the book of Joshua in the Old Testament , before Christ, read Joshua 24:-1-2a, 15-17 and 18b. Joshua  tells the  the tribes of Israel and their leaders,that it is time to make a decision. Joshua has decided that his household will "serve the lord."

Will you serve the Lord " the gods beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites", where they now dwell?

In addition, he reminds them how the Lord had performed miracles  and protected them, to which they responded," we also will serve the Lord."

2)In the New Testament reading, in the Second Reading , Saint Paul speaks to the Ephesians 5:21-32. He instructs husbands and their wives how they are to serve the Lord.He likens the marital state to Christ and His Church, as being one with each other.

3)Is it time for us to show through our actions, that we are committed to this task,that confronted the people of God , over 2000 years ago.?

June 23, 2018

It has been said, " We must be present to receive the gift."-Anonymous

In the 2nd reading today, Acts 13:22-26, we see that the author, thought to have been Luke, reminds us of how John the Baptist was present  and was proclaiming the coming of Jesus  and "the baptism of repentance." He also mentions Paul, Jesse,David, and the "sons of Abraham and others "who are God fearing.."  All are included in this "word of salvation." May this be a guiding force!

May 27, 2018

Sunday, May 27th is the Feast of the Holy Trinity. Let us be glad and celebrate!

Last week we celebrated the Feast of Pentecost, the Birthday of the Church, The Apostles received the Holy Spirit from Jesus who said,  in the Gospel reading,"Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them and whose sins you retain , they are retained ." Thus setting the stage for the sacrament of Reconciliation, known as Confession to some. followers.-See John 20:19-23.

This week,Jesus in Matthew 28::16:-20 tells the Apostles, to "Go therefore , and make disciples of all men.".. and behold , I am with you always, until the end of the age."

March 24, 2018

The lifting up of the fiery bronze serpent on a pole that the people were told to do( by Moses),whenever  a serpent(popular in that region) bit them, represents 2 things: the bronze serpent represents Christ being lifted up at Calvary to atone for our sins and the act of lifting up the pole represents repentance , on the part of the people for their sins. Thus sin leads to a  spiritual death  and repenting "takes us" to  forgiveness through God's grace and mercy. Today, we are often  like the people of the Old Testament, where we sometimes "miss the target" and do not obey God ; we gaze away from God where we cannot hear His Voice. When we err in this way , let us seek reconciliation as soon as we become aware we are on the wrong path. Let us pray for the grace for openness of heart.

 

 February 22, 2018

Musings for the 2nd Sunday of Lent in  Reading I:

Signs 

 

We are, as a people, looking for external reminders to encourage  us on our faith journey.  There are times that God cautions us about asking for signs and other times He gives us signs, as He did last week on The First Sunday of Lent (with Noah in, Genesis 9: 8-15) and the sign of the rainbow and  in His  covenant  with all the  living.  So, it is prudent to listen to discern what is the meaning in a particular situation!

On the 2nd Sunday, the First Reading in Genesis 22: 1-2, 9a,10-13, 15-18 , the messenger of the Lord, speaks  to Abraham and tells him to take his son, Isaac to Moriah to offer him up as a sacrifice;  Abraham did as God told him. At the eleventh hour, the Lord's messenger spoke again and told him, "Do not lay your hand on him," This was a sign of change. Then Our Lord  made a covenant with Abraham saying that the ancestors of Abraham would be countless and would be blessed.They would be victorious over their enemies...all because Abraham had trusted and obeyed The Lord. 

Can we begin to place our total trust in God, when we pray, by stating  at the end , "If it be your Holy  Will?".  Noah and Abraham are  our role models! 

January 23, 2018

We are reminded again and again of God's great love and mercy!

Last Sunday, on the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time in Reading I we read in Jonah 3:1-5, 10 of Jonah's "setting out to Nineveh"( the Mosul area today). Jonah  had ignored the first call by God and after this call he was no longer, as reluctant . God was very sad about how the people had not turned toward Him. Jonah was God's  messenger, warning the people of impending danger, if they did not change their ways. This resulted  in a change of heart by the people and God repenting "of the evil he had threatened to do to them ; he did not carry it out". 

Next Sunday, January 28th, we learn of Moses, the prophet  in Reading I of Dt. 18:15-20. God said, "I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their kin, and I  will put my words in his mouth, he shall tell them all that I command him."

May we today have comfort that the same God is present to us...the message has not changed!

Let us listen , as we hear  those words on Sunday.

December 18, 2017

Isaiah 61:1-2a and 10-11- Isaiah is reminding the people of God's message to him following their return to Jerusalem ...that this is a year of jubilation. They have survived the exile  for over 50 years and they will  be treated favorably by the Lord.

It will also be the Third Sunday of Advent for us on December 17th . We have been  preparing, watching,and repenting and are getting ready to end the season and next week, December 24th  we will celebrate the Fourth and last  Sunday of Advent . On the very next day, December 25th we will celebrate the memorial of the birth of the Christ child,  His very first coming!

(FYI...Let us celebrate that the promise made in Leviticus 25:8-55  which is similar, wherein  the people had  a fresh start also  (the "Jubilee Year, noted in NABRE).. IN  THE  FIRST READING the people have survived the Babylonian Exile and are freed by Cyrus.... they have suffered losses, paid debts for their unbelief and now it is time to "move on". The message is for all, the prosperous and the poor. ..God's justice will prevail.!

November 27, 2017

The gospel readings of the past 2 Sundays, Matthew  25:14-30 and Matthew 25:31-46 are connected  in that they are parables written to teach the people how God views the choices they make in specific situations. In the first one, the Master talks of how talents were used, and in the second situation, there was discussion about the end times when Jesus spoke about Judgement and who was prepared,  based on how they lived their lives while using sheep and goats in order to make a point.

November 12, 2017

In our  readings today we are reminded about  the preparation  for the end times and Jesus' return and how we are to "go about"during  this time.

Last week, Paul spoke in the First book to the Thessalonians :2,  about how pleased he was with the people that they were listening to his words and those of his helpers, Sivanus, Timothy , and Luke; additionally, how he gave thanks to God.Today,, we hear in 1 Thess.:4 that all will be remembered at the Second Coming: those living , those who died after Jesus' Coming, and those like Abraham, Sarah , who died before His First Coming When He suffered, died, and rose again for our sins.Let us find hope in these words.  The Gospel readings gives insight into ways we can prepare 

October 28, 2017

Paul takes the Thessalonians down "Memory Lane" as he recalls their  journey, after they met Paul and his companions , who brought Jesus to them. For many of us have had a spiritual journey, unique to that of anyone else, but comparable in many ways. Paul reminds them of their struggles and that they did not know God; afterwards,they came  to believe,and carried their knowledge to others who embraced the Word. 

Now, they were awaiting the Second Coming  where all would see the Lord face to face. Paul speaks fondly of the Thessalonians who became "imitators" of Paul and his companions, as they spread the word among those yet to believe.

 

September 07, 2017

We heard  about Jeremiah last week and this Sunday we will hear about Ezekiel, at Mass.

Jeremiah was called by God and saw himself as  a living example of persecution by the Israelites and also by the God who called him to speak to the people on His behalf. He even goes so far to say God is the cause of his suffering. In spite of this, he continues to listen to God recognizing that it is God alone who can help him and the people to rebuild them both."You duped me, O Lord, and I  let myself be duped!"_Jeremiah 20:7-9

Ezekiel was the first prophet called during the Babylonian Exile. He was taken captive by  the Babylonians  and was exiled to a foreign land.. It was here God called him to watch over the people who had disobeyed Him. He is told to pass on the warning that they must change their ways and be faithful, putting aside their wicked ways .. It is then they will receive God's blessings! -You, son of man , i have appointed watchman for the house of Israel."-Ez. 33:7-9

Let us pray that we , also may be instruments of God, like the two prophets and always be Christ-centered.!

Aug 7, 2017

Robert Cardinal Sarah has a book he wrote,  , "The Power of Silence"  that is worth adding to your library and is "a must" reading. He teaches us silence, a  "true inner stillness in order to to more fully understand the knowledge we receive at the Mass. He includes 3 things that have helped him: "solitude, silence, and absolute fasting."  He calls them : an unprecedented grace, a slow purification, and a personal encounter with God."

July 2, 2017

One of the things I learned long ago from Father David Valtieri (now deceased) of the Oratory in Rock Hill was that the preparation time is the most important part of any event.

During our days, we think  that things will just work out regardless of any planning we may  or may not engage in.So recently, I tried preparing for a scheduled event at my home and found that preparation made a huge difference.

Sometimes we avoid doing things that will take more time  and think all will be well. That ,I found,  is not reality. That is why we have event planners !

This is emphasized in Matt. 10:37-42, in our Gospel reading today. Jesus speaks  in the 2nd of his discourses to the Apostles to prepare them for the time when He will not be there.Let us always be Christ-centered(ABC).

June 21, 2017

In our busy lives we sometimes do not take time to look around; we are often so focused on our schedules and what we want to accomplish or check off on our lists. On June 13, in the first reading 2 Cor. 1:18-22, Paul speaks of Silvanus and Timothy , his co-workers in the vineyard.He  reminds us about looking back quickly and then staying in the present , looking forward to the future. If we truly believe in our Lord, Jesus we must show it by saying "Your will be done."  and saying "Yes." in the pleasant moments and the times of confrontation and acceptance of another's  view. Let us ask the Holy Spirit to guide us.

April 29, 2017

The Book of Acts is considered a two volume work, along with Luke, who was not an eye witness to the Suffering, Death and Resurrection , but rather a Gentile  who converted. this book describes ways the early church people brought the good news of Jesus to the people and the many joyful and challenging moments they experienced. Let us recall the fervor that Luke had, by first giving the word of truth to the readers.

March 30, 2017

Jesus shows himself as very human, weeping at the tomb of Lazarus.

He has been called by  his friend, Martha, who with Mary,her sister, were believers, as was Lazarus..."Martha said, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died."-John 11:20. Jesus did not come  to Bethany until 4 days later.when he finally arrived. Jesus saw Martha and those Jews, who accompanied Him to the tomb, weeping."And Jesus wept."_John 11:35 He then said to Lazarus."Come out and he did."_John 11:43.

March 1, 2017

Ash Wednesday, March 1st

Today is a most holy day in the church year. It is a time to look back and then quickly look forward. When the priest places ashes on our head, and says "Remember man thou art dust and unto dust thou shall return." it is a reminder of our past, present and our future on our journey back to Him. It is a time to ponder ..What can we do to be ready to meet Him on the Day of the Lord, His Second Coming? 

In Joel 2:23 , we hear the words Joel heard from God in an oracle,"Rend your hearts not your garments and return to the lord your God."

In Joel 2:12 we hear about "your whole heart" May you find ways ,like reading 1-4 verses from the book of Joel to help you to help you in this regard.

February 5, 2017

Isaiah 58:8-(from the first reading today)

On our spiritual journeys, we tend to think what we are " good enough" and can become complacent and routine in our actions  Let us ask God for the grace to know His will for us , each day.!

The prophet Isaiah says," Your vindication shall go before you, and the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.

May you be enlightened, encouraged,and comforted.

January 17, 2017

The timing  is after the Lord degraded Israel, after 721BC. The Assyrian Empire marched southward to conquer Judah. The prophet Isaiah hoped for change; . he speaks of a future king, who will rule and  rely on the Lord. He  will be a son of David and there will be light...no more darkness.

November 26, 2016

Let us give thanks for the great holy day of Thanksgiving.  Let us give thanks for the 3 Fs; faith, family and friends.Now we await the first Sunday of Advent .

The message of hope awaits us.In Isaiah 2:1-5, we hear the message of Isaiah; he saw a vision of a time when all will be at peace. The people will listen to God and go forth  showing it through their actions.

May this be our mantra today as we meditate on Isaiah 2:1-5. May we be those people.

October 31, 2016

As we celebrate All Saints Day let us rejoice that we have the saints to remind us of God's mercy.. They were human like us, experienced goodness, dealt with challenges, and were confronted with decisions to make.

In Revelations 7:2-4, 9-14 John shares  two visions...one  where one angel  instructs four angels to put the seal on the foreheads of the servants of the Lord."; those marked were from every tribe.

Then he received the second vision where there was a great multitude from all nations, races, and ethnicity  who came before  Jesus , signifying their loyalty to God by waving palm branches and wearing their robes (some who were martyred).

God rewards the faithful! 

This is a message of hope.

September 11, 2016

The 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time:

The 3 readings reflect much of what we can relate to today, even though they written 2000 years ago.

Reading I

In Exodus 32:7-11, 13-14, God spoke with Moses about His wrath about the actions of the Israelites, after they left Egypt.

Reading II-

1Timothy 1:12-17

Timothy accepted responsibility for his actions, saying  he was ignorant and an unbeliever.

Gospel Reading

Using parables, Jesus uses 3 parables to make his point; we all make decisions to act in different ways and God allows us this right . His grace is abundant. There will be consequences and if one is willing to follow Him, He will give them the grace to do just that!

September 2, 2016

Sirach 3:17-18 refers to the writings of an author sage, Ben Sira,who lived in Jerusalem and who wrote about 200 years before Jesus. The text was translated by his grandson about 117BC. He says, "conduct your affairs with humility and you will be loved more than a giver of gifts..." This is given as a piece of wisdom from one who has experienced life and wants to encourage the younger one. In the next line,the author says, "Humble yourself the more and you will find favor with God." This will be the outcome, your fellow travelers and God will find favor with you.

We must acknowledge God as the giver of gifts, if we are to find true happiness.

August 7, 2016

Sacrifice through fasting  is not new, but a practice that can be offered, as we pray for ourselves, a particular person, or removal of an obstacle for growth, like addiction. It can be offered for an increase of blessings, as in safe delivery of a baby or to promote readiness in a covenantal relationship in a forthcoming marriage. This can be offered once weekly, monthly,  or as needed, never in a frequency that could impair health. It is wise to speak with a spiritual director or confessor, before beginning.

July 19, 2016

On our spiritual journeys, we are reminded in Genesis 18:20-32 of how in the Old Testament God tells Abraham that he will do all he can to save souls. Each of us is very important to Him  and His mercy is endless. The key concept  that some in Sodom and Gomorrah will have regard for sacred values and others will not. Abraham possesses an open heart  as he asks God for mercy, on behalf of the "guilty"people.We can do likewise, as we see loved ones have gone astray;  we can pray for them to return to the ways of God., without judging them.

 June 30, 2016

Have you experienced times  in your interactions, when you  can be flexible and use moderation and other times when there seems to be no compromise?

Well, I have. In the READING I on  last Sunday ,June 26th,   in 1Kings 19:16b and 19-21 was one of those examples when Elijah used a moderate approach. Our lord told Elijah to anoint Elisha to assume his ministry. Elisha wanted to accept this call, but believed he must finish his work on the farm and say farewell to this parents. Elijah allowed this and he  did eventually, follow Elijah.

Asking the Holy Spirit  to give us the grace to His will for us in given situations today is prudent, trusting that God's will shall be done. Let us use  Elijah as a model.

May 31, 2016

Melchizedek emerges, from a previously known past, to bless Abram, in God's name and to honor him for his victory against aggressive kings. Melchizedek is not only a priest but a king and brings out bread and wine to celebrate. Abram shows his gratitude.

This is a prefigurement of Jesus and the simple meal He gave us at the last supper, which our priests offer in the daily celebration of the Eucharist.

April 29, 2016

Note-- Revelation in the New Testament, chapter 21:10-14

John was recalled his vision of the angel who took him to a high mountain and began to describe heaven, the holy city of Jerusalem. The numbers three and twelve were noted: He saw a high wall with twelve gates representing the twelve tribes of Israel, and twelve angels. three gates, twelve stones were inscribed on the wall with the twelve names of the Apostles .

With the coming of the Lamb there was a  fulfillment of the OT in the NT,   the Apostles represented the new era. There is no more temple, the Lord God and the Lamb(Jesus) provided the light.... and the Lamb is the light. God dwells in the heart of his people,the Church.

Pope Francis in this year of Mercy  encourages us to be kind and merciful toward one another as each of us lives out God's message of love and inclusion.

April 26, 2016

On our spiritual journeys, we must, like the Ethiopian eunuch, make time to read. In his case, he had been to Jerusalem to worship and was returning home when he met Philip who arrived after a call from an angel of the Lord (to use the desert route to go to Gaza).

 How unlikely that 2 men from different countries would meet!

Their encounter was profound; both were drawing closer to God and both were open to the Holy Spirit, one as a teacher, the other as an inquirer. Each was open to the  call to holiness. Please see Reading:--Acts 8:26-31(NABRE).

March 20, 2016

Musing One-Obedience (before Mass begins)-Luke 19:28-40-New Testament.  Jesus' instructs his disciples to secure a donkey in the village surrounding Mount of Olives, as he prepares to leave for Jerusalem to complete His mission. Let us notice His clear instructions to the disciples and their response in obedience.

Musing Two-Serving, Suffering, and Surrendering -Isaiah 50:4 -7 -Old Testament

The prophet Isaiah speaks of how one who follows Christ in an ideal way , must  serve, suffer, and surrender. This is what we see in the suffering , death, and resurrection of Jesus, the Messiah. 

Musing Three-Passion:  "took,... broke it... and gave it"-Luke 22:19-New Testament.  This is what the Apostles received and what  we receive, through the hands of the priest, acting on behalf of Jesus, at Holy Mass.

THIS IS OUR FAITH!

February 2, 2016

God is speaking to Jeremiah, the prophet in the OT, reminding him of  his continuing presence, knowing Jeremiah from his very beginning..."in the womb."

See Jeremiah 1:4:-5 and17-19. He states he will provide him with what he will need as he responds to God's call. Let us pray for strength that each of us may listen to these words today and take heed through our actions.  We must be open to change as it is necessary. 

November, 2015

Next Sunday, November 22nd is the last Sunday in Ordinary time. How fitting it is to prepare, by reading Daniel 7:13-14!  This  day  is called a solemnity, since it is a time to become serious about  the 2nd Coming of Christ. The Son of Man does the bidding of God on earth and is raised to God's  throne in heaven. Daniel was privileged to see Jesus coming  "on the clouds."..."his kingship will not be destroyed." The divinity  of Christ is revealed.

September 25,2015

Our dear God wants us to love one another, regardless of their state in life: In  Dt 1:17,we hear this affirmed. in His words to Moses. Let us pray for the wisdom. knowledge, and understanding to model  this message everyday, as we relate to others on our journeys.!

August 24,2015

July 06, 2015 

June 06, 2015 

Presentation is everything.

We can have a powerful message, but the way we deliver our words can impact how the receiver interprets what we are saying.  In holy Scripture we see this modeled as our Dear Lord prepared the apostles for His leaving. On Sunday at mass, we celebrate “The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ.”

April 18, 2015 

God continues to shower blessings on us like the dewfall.  Let us not ignore his grace and opportunities for change.

April 1st, 2015 

Nicodemus the Pharisee had come to believe in Jesus. Our Faith journey Is similar to his. First we are enlightened, then we ponder and change and then put into action our beliefs. Let us meditate on Nicodemus ,who with Joseph, brought the aloe and myrrh to prepare Jesus for his burial. 

February 17, 2015

God spoke to Moses and Aaron   telling him to bring those with sores ( suspected to be leprosy), to one of the priests in order to declare them  unclean…This was punitive to the sufferers  and protective to those who were not ill . 

In the Gospel reading, some were healed when they came before Jesus to be healed., he told them  not to tell anyone b/c His time had not come.

February 07, 2015

See below: God speaks to Job 

 1.Read: Job 38:4,7

“ ‘Where you there when I founded the earth? Tell me if you have understanding                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            …While the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God  shouted  for joy?’”

2.Reflect- understanding  -is the word or phrase that touched my heart.

3.Respond-Dear Holy Spirit, please  give me the gift of understanding that was given to Job.

4.Rest-God grace prevails.

Then my prayer practice ended in thanksgiving.

January 20, 2015

1Samuel 3:10,19

This book from the Old Testament, speaks of love and divine revelation.

There are times on our spiritual journey that we must pause and take inventory.

We do this with a spiritual director ,priest, or  another person of faith who has a “like mind” and has studied theology or lived life’s experience in ways you admire.

Hannah , Samuel’s mother dedicated him  to God when she learned she would be given a child.  She left him with Eli, who would be his mentor. Samuel grew and would become  the last judge, under the tutelage of Eli , before the new stage of monarchy in the Israelite history. Samuel  was also a prophet and needed someone like Eli to interpret what he had heard and from whom the message came. This is what Eli did. Let us have the mind of Christ as we go forth today …reflecting in our Lectio Divina practice.

January 4, 2015

On Epiphany Feast Day:

Hearing about the wise men, who over 2000 years ago, traveled many miles to see the new born king, is a message of perseverance, faith, and hope. Unlike the wise men , today we are unable to see our dear Lord ,but we do see the effects of His grace and His presence. Listening to the birds chirp, watching the rain fall, and visiting a friend who is ill ,can remind us of God’s Presence. As we journey on in 2015, perhaps we can continue to demonstrate our love and thankfulness to God, asking the Holy Spirit to and remove any obstacles  that may prevent us from this task.__

May this be a new awakening, as we march along….Isaiah 60:1-Rise up in splendor, Jerusalem…”

December 21, 2014

Re: 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 14(NABRE)__The author of Samuel  states David was concerned that he lived so comfortably and that the ark of the covenant was contained within a mere  tent. Nathan, the prophet, David’s  mentor and guide, advised David to tell God of his concerns, which he does.  God in turn tells David,  he will  build a house thought of as a dynasty for David , the House of David. It is from this dynasty that God says he, furthermore, will bring forth an heir  after David  rests  with his ancestors __”I will be a father to him  and he shall be a son to me. This is thought of as a prophecy of the Messiah.”This is the “structure” God promised   under this covenant with David.

December 14, 2014

The 3^rd week of Advent is “upon us”.

The third candle will be lit on the Advent wreath and it is the color, pink, in celebration of  a time of joy.

 The celebration  of the birth of our dear Lord will be upon us soon, and the anticipated  Second coming of Jesus remains  in our hearts.

Let us continue to be the light of Christ , asking the Holy Spirit to give us the grace to act on these thoughts!.

Perhaps there is someone whom we need to call, a card we should  send, or an article of clothing we can donate to the poor.

November 28, 2014

 The beautiful celebration of thanksgiving is over and we are moving on  to Sunday to begin  the holy season of Advent.  It can be  thought of as the memorial of the time of Jesus ‘ birth and the  anticipation of his Second Coming.

May we listen to the scripture reading, Is. 64:2-7. Let us pray for the resolution to the discord here in America and for our  suffering brethren in the Middle East , who are persecuted for their faith.  Let us also pray for peace in our own families, that others may see the light of Christ in us.

November 21, 2014

1 Peter 3:15 is a reading that touches the heart. Our Holy Father speaks of how  important it is to be prepared for times that may come  when others  confront us on our journey back to Him. It often comes in the workplace dn  gatherings with family and  neighbors. That is why we continue to read Holy Scripture daily..to remind us of our part in evangelization.  Let us be kind and clear  as to what our beliefs are  as we talk with others, and in so doing others will understand our faith and may be drawn to it. Blessings for the day…to each of you.

October 23, 2014

It is important to understand why the Mass is so important to us , as followers of Christ. Some things become rote to us and we miss out on the full benefits of the liturgical experience…we just touch the surface. Any time Christ is present to us ,in this spiritual way, we should make an effort to deepen this experience. There are four ways ,He is present:

In the assembly, in the priest on the altar(in the persona of Christ),in His Word, and in the Eucharist. It is the Eucharist(host) that is the means by which Christ can come to us daily , and can bring about a transformation in a spiritual and a physical way . None of this can take place without the heart , mind, and will working in unison.

October 15, 2014

 Isaiah 25:6-10

If God can forgive us our transgressions , who are we to not forgive others?

 

Have you ever thought of the veil that veils all people”?What can it be that it  is so important that God will remove it?We can think of it , as that which hides God’s face from us; it can be thought of as sin.

October 05, 2014

Phil. 4:6-9

St Paul in his letter to the Corinthians says, ”Keep on doing what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me.” This is an encouraging message and one which we need often.

There are times when disappointments come, challenges present, losses come unexpectedly, and we must stay the course listening  to the words of Paul, follower of Jesus, Our Lord.

Let us write this on a 3x 5 card and keep it handy..

September 29, 2014

Matt. 21:33-43

The sending of three  servants: the prophets, the Apostles, and His son, Jesus

Jesus used parables to explain his teachings. On this day we remember that the builders rejected the cornerstone.  The builders are the Pharisees and the Jewish leaders : the Jesus is the cornerstone . Many of the builders did not believe the servants ,mentioned above ,so,  God (the owner of the vineyard) gave the land to the Gentiles, who produced  , the  fruit of good works. Let us be mindful of our love for our dear Lord . __”Teach me your paths.”_Psalm 25:4

September 13, 2014

Parallels are seen between Sunday’s  First reading, Numbers 21:4b-9, and the Gospel reading, Jn. 3 :-17 (in the New American Bible –Revised Edition).

The Israelite  people  realized the error of their ways (complaining ,as they traveled to the Promised Land) and went to  Moses  to ask  him to pray to  God to take away the serpents( who had been attacking them).  Moses prayed and God instructed him to make a “bronze “serpent. This would serve as a reminder , when they were bitten, to look at the “bronze serpent”, a seraph,  attached to the pole and their sins would be healed. Once again God showed through his actions, He was listening ! Over 1000 years later in the New Testament, we see the writer of John ,being taught by Jesus how Jesus was raised up, on the cross(similar to the lifting up of the bronze serpent)  to save all of us.

August 31, 2014

Jeremiah 20:7-9—The 22^nd Sunday in Ordinary Time.

We relate to the prophet, Jeremiah,  who speaks of being mocked by others about his teachings and messages from God , when he presented them to the Israelites. Despite these tribulations, he continued to speak the Word. Let us, living today ,model Jeremiah as we encounter situations in which we can inform others about  the reason for our faith. Let us invoke  the Holy Spirit , asking for  his help .

August 24, 2014

 1) Is 22:19-23 the first reading from the 21^th Sunday in Ordinary time-today.

God’s Gift of Authority, Leadership.

The leadership of a group, home or institution must be established if there is to be recognition for its worth. Our heavenly Father reminds us of this when in the Old Testament, he takes away the leadership of Shebna  and puts Eliakim in place. God  believes him to be a stronger leader, who would follow God’s ways and send this message to the people of the House of David.

2) Matthew 16:13-20 the Gospel Reading on the 24thSunday in  Ordinary Time

God’s Gift of Authority, through Jesus, the second person of the Holy  Trinity.

In the New Testament, Jesus (eight centuries later ) says to Peter , one of the earliest Apostles, “ I will give you the keys to the Kingdom  of heaven” giving Peter  permission( through the Church) to prohibit some things and allow other things. This refers to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, as we know it today through our teachings.  This is why we confess  our wrongdoings to the priest ( follower of Peter through the Apostolic succession),using this sacrament as a means of  grace. Our children receive this sacrament when they are in the second grade , usually.

August 13, 2014

Jeremiah was a prophet living in the seventh and sixth century BC in the southern kingdom.  The northern kingdom had fallen to the Assyrians and he was called  to give God’s word to the people of Judah to help them to  change their ways and repent. Let us be aware of the great lengths the  people went to turn their backs on God’s words, despite the oracles Jeremiah spoke

He died a martyr and believed to be killed by his own people.

He reminded the people of the New Covenant ,  in an oracle of the Lord, referring to God,  that He would be their God and  …they shall be my  people”__ Jeremiah 31:34.. .” God’s constancy will not be undone.

Does any of this sound familiar today?

July 29, 2014

As we continue to look into our day today dealings with others.  We cannot help but recall the words of the young man who asked Jesus , “Teacher, what good deed must I do , to have eternal life?”…Finally, Jesus says “ …”You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” In The Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition,#2094, we learn how we can sin against God’s love: through indifference, ingratitude, lukewarmness, spiritual sloth, and hatred of God. Have we become unaware of the goodness we encounter in others, have we forgotten to thank God for loving us, have we refused to help meet the needs of others less fortunate, have we failed to acknowledge God’s hand in the outcome of events and lastly, have we totally chosen to not show our love for God, thinking we can handle any challenges/struggles, without Him. If we have not experienced any of these things, let us be thankful; if we have let us change our ways and begin today.

July 2, 2014

June 8, 2014

The first Reading, Acts 2:1-11 and the Gospel reading, John 20-:19-23

Last week after being in prayer on Sunday, and seeing Jesus ‘s ascension into heaven on Thursday,  the apostles went to Jerusalem where they selected a replacement for Judas . After fifty days had passed since Easter and the Easter  season  drew   to a close; today we celebrate the coming of the spirit ( promised by Jesus in John 14 :25-26). It is called Pentecost Sunday .  We “enter into” the last half of the Ordinary time. Let us be enlightened by this act of God to not leave us orphaned…to  chose to send the Advocate, the Holy Spirit (See John 14:25-26). Let us be open to the workings of the Holy Spirit each day. 

June 1, 2014

May 21, 2014

Change:

In our quest to draw closer to God, it is wise to look at ways we can change. Blessed John  Henry Newman, in the 19^th century said.”To live is to change . To be perfect is to have changed often.”

How can we change, we ask?

The psalmist in 3:1-2 asks,” How many rise against me!” King David , in 1000 BC, fled from his own son, Absalom.

It is in Psalms 4:4 we can find our answer.

God’s grace abounds , but we must acknowledge our need to change, be willing to ask for His help, and trust, completely,  in His desire to help us.

May 11, 2014

April 28, 2014

God’s mercy is endless. Let us remind ourselves of instances where we felt sad, lost, or challenged. It was only through God grace and mercy , we were able to accept the trial that we had. Conversely,  when we experienced great joy, a sense of peace, and gratitude  we knew this also from God. Today the Church reminds us again through the celebration of Divine Mercy of his great love for each of us, a message he sent through Saint Faustina  in our times today. in the Old Testament , in  Psalm 20 , from King David, we are reminded of “Some rely on chariots, others  on horses ,but we on the name of the Lord our God.”__ it is through honoring this , we will have the victory.

April 15, 2014

Falsely Accused

Daniel 13:1-19-Susanna was falsely accused of a wrongdoing which  was not of God. Rather than look away from God,  she prayed for His help to deal with this accusation.  God sent Daniel, who was wise and imbued with the Holy Spirit,  to prove the wrong doing was not of Susanna’s actions, but of the others. Let us pray for the strength to call upon God in times of joy and challenge  that we may grow in holiness. Each day If we are thankful in small things we will be able to offer prayer (believing that God is listening)in  other situations when help is needed. May we pray for His grace, asking that His will be done.

April 6, 2014

Ezekiel was the  first prophet called outside Judah during the time of the Exile, in the late 6th century B.C. He  told the people that their actions ( idolatrous worship)and their lack of actions( not standing up to change their ways)  resulted in God’s sending them to Babylon. He warns the people what would happen in his oracles, if they were to continue this  behavior by defying God. A portrayal of the New Israel is clear and a reward that awaits them , if they change their ways and embrace God fully. Veiled/metaphorical meanings are included like “open your graves” help in the visualization of the message. Saint Paul in Romans(Rom.8:811) speaks to us in the specific mechanism that is at work and how to determine which road to travel, reinforcing Ezekiel’s words. The Old Testament is fulfilled in the new, a perfect example.

March 31, 2014

Samuel 16:1b, 6-7

Samuel left the area and went to Jerusalem, as God had instructed him, in order to anoint the new king of Judah, who would take Saul’s place. Much to Samuel’s surprise, God rejected the other seven sons of Jesse and selected David who was tending the sheep. It was not David’s youth, rather something in his heart that struck God.   Let us pray for openness of mind, that Samuel had, subjecting himself to the will of God. He did not display  indifference, which would not be of God.   

March 24, 2014

On Ash Wednesday and the first 2 Sundays of Lent , in the first readings, we witness   the words of one prophet, Joel, who lived in the 5th century BC , and the stories  of Adam and Abraham found in the book of Genesis. Each of them responded differently to their call; one turning away from God and the other two,  turning toward God. See Joel 2:12-18, Genesis 3:1-7 and Genesis 12:1-4.  This week let us ponder  our own  personal call to holiness, asking the Holy Spirit to guide us in the way that will draw us closer to our dear Lord!

1)In the Old Testament, Genesis 2:7-9 and 3:1-7 we read of how our first parents succumbed to temptation from Satan after turning away from God . Saint Paul, in Romans  12-19, tells us in the New Testament that all was not for naught , that help was on the way for those of us, who came after Adam and Eve  in the person of Jesus Christ , true God and true man. In Matt. 4;1-11, we see how Jesus  himself , was also  tempted, but  He was able to rebuke the temptations  of Satan,  by turning  toward God, even when He was promised an earthly reward.

2)Secondarily, Abram, was called to leave his homeland in Genesis 12:1-4 and follow God to a new homeland, where he would be blessed and his nation would be great. He would be given what he needed. True to His word, God made this happen.  There was one thing necessary, that Abraham  would be willing ; Abraham became the father of the Israelites, the lineage from which Jesus came.  Let us pray for the grace to come forward and start again during this holy season of Lent to turn toward God, with a renewed fervor ,  in a  way that is befitting to the king of kings.

3)On the Third Sunday of Lent, in Exodus 17 :3-7, Moses had been called by God to bring  the people out of Egypt and lead them to The Promised Land.. We are reminded of how the people were not happy,  questioning God , and  Moses.

Let us place our total trust in God , listening for any direction he may have in special situations , as we pray to the Holy Spirit asking

See the USCCB website under readings for the First, Second, and Third Sundays of Lent, year A.

(March 2, 2014)

It is timely as we approach the Lenten season, by recalling how our Israelite brethren were told by Isaiah  that God has never forgotten his people because of their disobedience. Nebuchadnezzar, from Babylon, took them  into  Exile. Later, Cyrus of Persia allowed them to return to Judah. Let us remember that suffering is part of living ; it is suffering that brings us endurance,  promotes  character, and gives us hope(from the homily on Friday, February 28th at the EWTN Mass) in Jesus’ Second Coming. It is important to remember,  God allows us to suffer: he is  not a God who punishes. See Isaiah 49:13-15.

(February 24, 2014)  

There  are times in our lives we need to correct another person. At times like this , we remember how our Dear Lord upon leaving the earth ,informed the Apostles that God would send the Holy Spirit to teach and remind them of all He had told them(See John 14:25-26). So, today, we must be willing to listen, and trust in these words.  We need not fret or become anxious about the outcome;  let us resolve today to put our trust in God in all situations and detach.

(February 16, 2014)

Last week we spoke of detachment and how we can use it in our daily lives, always with love and caring .

Today let’s talk about prudence and justice, two of the four  cardinal virtues , upon which all our virtues hinge. “Prudence is   right reason in action”-says famous theologian, St.Thomas Aquinas, in the Catechism of the Catholic Church #1806.  In this way we are able to moderate our choices of earthly goods.

Justice follows  in allowing us to offer  our firm will to do good to God and neighbor.

As we rise each morning ,let us pray for the grace to follow the virtuous paths of justice and prudence.

(February 10, 2014) - Detachment

Last week we spoke of fortitude , a gift of the Holy Spirit that comes from the root work, “fort”, leading to the words “fortuitous” , “fortified” , fortitude”, “fortify” and many others.

Essentially, it is about strength and protection.

Well, God clearly tells us in sending forth his Apostles to the ends of the world  that they would need only what he told them to bring. Today we ,unlike the Apostles, do not see God ; we are told to believe what we have been told in Holy Scripture, that He is with us, e.g. “the hand of the Lord “ and  “your rear guard” and will guide us, if we are willing ,in the way he wants us to walk. Let us recall, Abraham, David ,Ezekiel, and Joseph  in the Old Testament; there are many others.

This week we are speaking of detachment, something seemingly not of God ,but when we go in depth, we acknowledge we cannot be responsible for the actions of another, nor  would we want to be. There are times in helping others we think that is our role.  We have been told, it can stifle the spiritual progress of both the helper and the one helped.

In the New Testament , Paul, (today’s reading, 1Cor.2:1-5))models this for us today. God, grant me the courage to detach with love. He was willing to detach from his old ways and replace it with the ways of God.

 (February 2, 2014)

In the words of Father Luis Lorda, in "The Virtues of Holiness"-2010, there
are important virtues that will help us as we journey on in our spiritual
Life. The sense of the presence of God, is just one!

Simeon , of our Lord, was mindful of this virtue. Since he was a priest who would dedicate Jesus to God, when Joseph and Mary brought Jesus to the temple. "in the fullness of time" , Simeon sensed God's presence in all that he did , often growing weary, but staying the course. And then they arrived at the temple doors. Let us remember to ask for God's grace when it is difficult to wait. See today's reading ,on the Feast of the Presentation-Luke 2:25-28. 

 Next week , we will discuss detachment.

(January 28, 2014)

Temperance is a virtue that helps us to control our desires  for pleasure, both physical and spiritual. This is needed as we often overindulge in pleasures and fail to make time to talk with God. In today’s readings, we are reminded of “light” , three times,: in Reading One (“a light has shone.”-Isaiah 8, 23-9:3), the Responsorial Psalm (“The Lord is my light and my salvation.”-Psalm 27:1,4,13-14),  and the Gospel Reading (“the people who sit  in darkness have seen a great light.”-Matt. 4:12-23). Let us pray for the virtue of temperance to help us each day.

(January 13, 2014)

 Let us be aware of  the heavenly virtues:

Today ,let us talk of  chastity, which is keeping the focus on  cleanliness of the body, according to one’s state in life (different, yet similar  for  each state: the single, priestly, married,  and religious lives). It consists of  using an internal and external barometer and reviewing our vows/covenant.  

Let us pray for God’s grace to change what we can ,  as we can take our inventory and list those behaviors  we can change, for example from taking a libation that may cause an unhealthy response.

In Acts 10-34- today’s reading, Luke  mentions Peter’s Speech,  wherein he  speaks of  how a true follower “acts uprightly.” Key phrases are “acts uprightly” and  ” am pleased.”

Next week , we will introduce  temperance, another virtue!

(January 5, 2014)

To grow in the  spiritual life , the central theme  is to love and respect others and their viewpoints. From there we are introduced to  accepting of beliefs of others. There is no expectation  of what should be, unless one is under a covenant or contract  setting.  Saint Gabriel Possenti says__”I will receive all things from the hand  of God as being sent by Him for my own personal benefit.”, In this way we focus on managing our lives and notmanaging the lives of others.  Let us be willing to ask for God’s grace to succeed.

(January, 1 2014)

  Let us, on The Feast  Solemnity  of Mary ,January 1^st,  pay the homage to her that is due, as Mother of God.   Mary  said,  in Luke 1:38 , ”Behold , I am the handmaid of the Lord.”, reflecting  this in her  heart.

Let us emulate Mary as we encounter others, in the spirit of love, confidence, and trust in God’s individual plan for us. Let us ask for His grace, in situations that are challenging and those that are rather mundane.

(December 16, 2013)

On  the third Sunday of Advent, we are reminded to rejoice  and  look forward with anticipation that in 10 more days we will celebrate the birth of our dear Lord that happened  over 2000 years ago.  The reading from Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10 “marks” a time of peace and exultation. when “they will see the glory of the Lord.” All of the past disobediences of the Israelites  and times of lack of trust will be no more and extraordinary things will happen ,a.e.b.  such as hands and feet  of some , once feeble will be made strong, and those who could not speak will speak. Miracles will come to pass that no one can explain. Let us pray for greater understanding, the wisdom to know false prophecy and discern the things that we can change to make this a more meaningful liturgical preparation.  It maybe forgiving someone who like any one of us , has erred.

(November 22, 2013)

1)Let us pray for the grace to be thankful to God and everyone who
remembers us in a kind way, big or small.

See Col. 1:1-4-Paul tells the Colossians ."We always give thanks to God".

2)The Catholic News Herald, page 2, November 22, 2013 ,"Pope goes to
confession every two weeks." This is nice way to begin our Advent season, as
Our Holy Father does.

(October 09, 2013)

It seems evident  Timothy was devoted to his calling, and  had served the Lord ,as was expected of him , being encouraged and mentored  by Paul .In his letters to Timothy (See 1 Timothy1: 1-6), Paul affirms his request for him to stay in Ephesus and instruct the false teachers  not to teach false doctrines. In Paul’s letters of greeting to the churches  grace and peace were used, but in his letters to Timothy, he includes mercy.  Paul  reminds Timothy of grace, God’s undeserved gift to him, mercy , God’s forgiveness , if we are sincere, and peace,  a state of tranquility . Let us emulate Paul by asking God’s grace, mercy and peace upon another person in our lives!  

(September 30, 2013)

As we are on the cusp of  the month of October , let us focus on" building one another up." There are times in our lives we may be confronted with whether we should respond to comments.  Had this ever happened to you?

Actually, it really is not   difficult, if we believe that the Holy Spirit is with us to guide us, as Jesus told the Apostles when he was leaving His earthly life(John 14:24-26). That may not be enough!  It is through our willingness and the grace of God that we are able to discern whether we should respond and if we are to respond, and how we should respond.   Luke 12:11-12 may help in this regard.

 Moments Matter!

(September 22, 2013)

 Paul ,in speaking to Timothy, who led the congregation in Ephesus in What is present day Turkey, reminds him  that praying for everyone is important. He speaks of the different ways we can pray through  petitions, thanksgiving, and supplication  In order that our lives will be peaceful.

To reiterate,  If we, today  set aside time for this, a sense of peace and closeness to Jesus is assured. Timothy  points out that “God wills everyone to be saved” and Jesus is our redeemer  Paul asks Timothy to convey his wish that in every place men should pray, in submission, and free from anger or judgment. Let us put aside any ill feelings that may present and go forth living this message of Paul. Pray and surrender and all will be well!

See 1Timothy 2:1-8

(September 14, 2013)

If  today you have an issue with someone where there is an impasse or you are at a stalemate and have given up believing that things would ever  change, believe that help is available.

You may even have alienated yourself from that person, please  have hope in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Since God cannot be present physically, he puts people who can help ,if we are willing.

Talk with a priest, your pastor, or a spiritual director who can help you.

Often times these situations have resulted in losing faith in our dear Lord who loves us so much. It is in practicing our faith, returning to Mass where we can deepen our faith, find encouragement , meet like –minded people and find peace.

Please read 1Timothy 1:12-16,  the 2^nd reading on the 24thSunday in Ordinary Time, where Paul speaks of his own journey.

(September, 9, 2013)

September 9,2013__The heart is the center of our physical and spiritual well-being; that is why in Hebrews 12:3  the author tells the people not to”lose heart” and grow weary. Jesus ,our leader endured much suffering and opposition.

Today, let us pray for our Syrian brethren that the terrible tragedies will cease and peace will return.

(August 25, 2013)

The 21^stSunday   in Ordinary Time

Reading 1- Is. 66 :18-20

God speaks through  the author telling us of his plan to “gather all nations  together...”

Reading 2-Hebrews 12:5-7

The author reminds the people, not to “lose heart”… and that God will discipline  them as needed.

 Gospel Reading-Luke 13:22-30

Finally, the author of Luke encourages the  people  to enter through the  narrow door.

In order to do this, the people are reminded they need to be strengthened, and they must not delay.

 Summary and Linkage for Us Today

God tells us  of his plan and  what we need to reach the goal of entering the kingdom. It is our choice!

 (August 13, 2013)

I was just reviewing the reading from the 19^th Sunday !

 The Israelites showed courage, despite grumbling, Abraham displayed trust in God when he was asked to obey God,  and the Apostles listened when they were told to be prepared. 

 Why not re-read these readings to determine , how you would have responded?   I did and was surprised .

(July 28, 2013)

God’s mercy and forgiveness abounds, as noted in Gen. 18: 20-32 and Col. 2:12-32.  Paul cites the importance of Baptism and to be alive in the Spirit, free from original sin. Later, Paul  speaks of how the Colossians, some of whom, had strayed from God’s teachings and committed sin. Jesus redeemed us by His physical death on the cross . Paul encourages us to be transformed and free from any bondage to evil.  Let us pray for the grace to follow Christ and be forgiven for any offenses toward others.

(June 30, 2013) 

In the  prayer practice of Lectio Divina, in the Old Testament God speaks with us and we speak with God believing the  Holy Spirit is guiding us.  In the 3^rd century, Origen ,believed there can be a meaning In the Bible that is beyond a literal sense , that is “below the surface.   In the Old Testament God inspired sages, prophets and Apostles who used their unique ways, through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to write down what they were being told.

In “Lectio “ what seems obscure can become obvious.

Encountering Jesus- In today’s liturgy in the breaking of the bread, God ‘s great love for us is made clear in  Luke 24:31-35.Word had gotten out that the body of Jesus was missing on the first day following his burial. The two disciples were traveling to Emmaus to meet with the brothers; they “came upon” Jesus , but did not recognize him. ”How could this be. “ , we ask ourselves!  Only later “in the breaking “of the bread did they realize He was the Messiah. Let us pray for the grace to recognize Jesus as we receive the Eucharist at Mass and encounter others throughout our days.

"Tobit 8:15  “Blessed are you, O God, with every holy and pure blessing l “  NAB Edition