The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
I thought I would share this wonderful story by Max Lucado, read it to your family and friends before your Christmas meal. Merry Christmas & God Bless- tommyk
The noise and bustle began earlier than usual in the village. As night gave way to dawn, people were already on the streets. Vendors were positioning themselves on the corners of the most heavily traveled avenues. Store owners were unlocking the doors to their shops. Children were awakened by the excited barking of the street dogs and the complaints of donkeys pulling carts.
The owner of the inn had awakened earlier than most in the town. After all, the inn was full, all the beds taken. Every available mat or blanket had been put to use. Soon all the customers would be stirring and there would be a lot of work to do.
One's imagination is kindled thinking about the conversation of the innkeeper and his family at the breakfast table. Did anyone mention the arrival of the young couple the night before? Did anyone ask about their welfare? Did anyone comment on the pregnancy of the girl on the donkey? Perhaps. Perhaps someone raised the subject. But, at best, it was raised, not discussed. There was nothing that novel about them. They were, possibly, one of several families turned away that night.
Besides, who had time to talk about them when there was so much excitement in the air? Augustus did the economy a favor when he decreed that a census should be taken. Who could remember when such commerce had hit the village?
No, it is doubtful that anyone mentioned the couple's arrival or wondered about the condition of the girl. They were too busy. The day was upon them. The day's bread had to be made. The morning's chores had to be done. There was too much to do to imagine that the impossible had occurred.
God entered the world as a baby.
Yet, were someone to chance upon the sheep stable on the outskirts of Bethlehem that morning, what a peculiar scene they would behold.
The stable stinks like all stables do. The stench of urine, dung, and sheep reeks pungently in the air. The ground is hard, the hay scarce. Cobwebs cling to the ceiling and a mouse scurries across the dirt floor.
A more lowly place of birth could not exist.
Off to one side sit a group of shepherds. They sit silently on the floor, perhaps perplexed, perhaps in awe, no doubt in amazement. Their night watch had been interrupted by an explosion of light from heaven and a symphony of angels. God goes to those who have time to hear him -- so on this cloudless night he went to simple shepherds.
Near the young mother sits the weary father. If anyone is dozing, he is. He can't remember the last time he sat down. And now that the excitement has subsided a bit, now that Mary and the baby are comfortable, he leans against the wall of the stable and feels his eyes grow heavy. He still hasn't figured it all out. The mystery event puzzles him. But he hasn't the energy to wrestle with the questions. What's important is that the baby is fine and that Mary is safe. As sleep comes he remembers the name the angel told him to use ... Jesus. "We will call him Jesus."
Wide awake is Mary. My, how young she looks! Her head rests on the soft leather of Joseph's saddle. The pain has been eclipsed by wonder. She looks into the face of the baby. Her son. Her Lord. His Majesty. At this point in history, the human being who best understands who God is and what he is doing is a teenage girl in a smelly stable. She can't take her eyes off him. Somehow Mary knows she is holding God. So this is he. She remembers the words of the angel. "His kingdom will never end."
He looks like anything but a king. His face is prunish and red. His cry, though strong and healthy, is still the helpless and piercing cry of a baby. And he is absolutely dependent upon Mary for his well-being.
Majesty in the midst of the mundane. Holiness in the filth of sheep manure and sweat. Divinity entering the world on the floor of a stable, through the womb of a teenager and in the presence of a carpenter.
She touches the face of the infant-God. How long was your journey!
This baby had overlooked the universe. These rags keeping him warm were the robes of eternity. His golden throne room had been abandoned in favor of a dirty sheep pen. And the worshiping angels had been replaced with kind but bewildered shepherds.
Meanwhile, the city hums. The merchants are unaware that God has visited their planet. The innkeeper would never believe that he has just sent God into the cold. And the people would scoff at anyone who told them the Messiah lay in the arms of a teenager on the outskirts of their village. They were all too busy to consider the possibility.
Those who missed His Majesty's arrival that night missed it not because of evil acts or malice; no, they missed it because they simply weren't looking.
Little has changed in the last two thousand years, has it?
"While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.' Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.' When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, 'Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.' So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told."
"God Came Near" (Written by Max Lucado)
Reading 1 Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14
2 God sets a father in honor over his children; a mother’s authority he confirms over her sons.
3 Whoever honors his father atones for sins, and preserves himself from them. When he prays, he is heard; 4 he stores up riches who reveres his mother. 5 Whoever honors his father is gladdened by children, and, when he prays, is heard. 6 Whoever reveres his father will live a long life;
he who obeys his father brings comfort to his mother. 12 My son, take care of your father when he is old;
grieve him not as long as he lives. 13 Even if his mind fail, be considerate of him; revile him not all the days of his life; 14 kindness to a father will not be forgotten, firmly planted against the debt of your sins
—a house raised in justice to you.
Reading 2 Colossians 3:12-21
12 Brothers and sisters: Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if one has a grievance against another; as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do. 14And over all these put on love, that is, the bond of perfection. 15 And let the peace of Christ control your hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly,
as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another, singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs
with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. 18 Wives, be subordinate to your husbands, as is proper in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives, and avoid any bitterness toward them.
20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not provoke your children, so they may not become discouraged.
Gospel Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23
13 When the magi had departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said,
“Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.”14 Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt. 15 He stayed there until the death of Herod, that what the Lord had said through the prophet might be fulfilled; Out of Egypt I called my son. 19 When Herod had died, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt 20 and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child’s life are dead.” 21 He rose, took the child and his mother,
and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was ruling over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go back there. And because he had been warned in a dream, he departed for the region of Galilee. 23 He went and dwelt in a town called Nazareth, so that what had been spoken through the prophets might be fulfilled, He shall be called a Nazorean.
Questions for Discussion:
1. Who appeared to Joseph in a dream?
2. When did Joseph have his dream?
3. What did the angel say to Joseph in the dream?
4. How long were they to stay in Egypt?
5. Who wanted to destroy Jesus?
6. When did Joseph take his family and escape to Egypt?
7. Why did the Lord call Joseph to leave Egypt according to verse 15?
8. How did Herod feel when he saw that the wise men had lied to him?
9. What did Herod do to all the babies who were born in Bethlehem?
10. Who was the prophet whose words came to pass because of Herod's horrible deed?
11. When did an angel of the Lord appear in another dream to Joseph?
12. What did the angel say to Joseph?
13. Why was Joseph afraid to go to Israel?
14. Who was the father of Archelaus?
15. Who warned Joseph not to go to Israel after all?
16. Where did Joseph end up taking his family?
17. What was the name of the city where Joseph and his family stayed?
18. Why did Jesus' family live in Nazareth?
Enjoy the readings. Please pass them on.
Merry Christmas, tommyk
Lord, thank you for being so real to me and for revealing your wonderful love to us. There are people in our lives who don’t know you, some who even resist your call. Yet we know how much you love them and how much you want them to know your love. Lord, please put in our minds the names of people you would like us to reach with your love. And, Lord, with those names, we ask you to give us wisdom about how to “fertilize” their hearts so they may bear abundant fruit. Amen
Subscribe To
Posts
All Comments
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Readings For Sunday December 19, 2010
Fourth Sunday of Advent
“They shall name him Emmanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’” (Matthew 1:23)
Whenever you’re sad, lonely, or afraid, how heartening it is to have someone say, “I’m with you,” especially when their actions back up their words!
More than seven hundred years before Jesus’ birth, a frightened ruler received just such a message—and it came from the best source imaginable. Speaking through the prophet Isaiah, God himself told King Ahaz that he would save Jerusalem from an enemy army. He even confirmed this word with a sign: “The virgin shall be with child, and bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14).
Isaiah’s word to Ahaz referred to a specific young woman—perhaps a new wife of the king’s—and her providential pregnancy. But as today’s Gospel shows, that prophecy had unsuspected depths of meaning. Inspired by the Spirit, Matthew declares that Jesus is the perfect fulfillment of that promise. As God’s own Son, conceived by the Holy Spirit, he is not just a sign of God’s presence—he is “Emmanuel.” He is “God is with us’” (Matthew 1:23).
This is the ultimate “I’m with you” statement! It tells us that through the incarnation, the all-powerful God came to rescue what was lost. It tells us that out of boundless love, he sent his only Son to share our lot and save us from sin and death. Surely Jesus is God-with-us!
Take it to heart as God’s message to you today. If you’re singing a happy song, he’s with you in your joy. If you’re feeling stressed, Jesus offers you his peace. If you’re hurting, he reminds you: “I am with you always”—in his word, in the Eucharist, in all of daily life (Matthew 28:20). If you feel inadequate for some task—raising a child, resolving a conflict, breaking a habit, finding work—turn to Jesus. Never, ever forget that God is with you!
“Jesus, I believe that you are ‘God with us.’ Help me to become more open to your presence and your will. I want to be with you always, just as you are with me.”
Reading 1 Isaiah 7:10-14
10 The LORD spoke to Ahaz, saying: 11 Ask for a sign from the LORD, your God; let it be deep as the netherworld, or high as the sky! 12 But Ahaz answered, “I will not ask! I will not tempt the LORD!” 13 Then Isaiah said: Listen, O house of David! Is it not enough for you to weary people, must you also weary my God? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.
Questions for Reflection or Group Discussion
1. In the first reading, Ahaz’ weak response to the Lord speaking to him reminds us that we too can take for granted the wonderful revelation of God’s love for us that we have in the coming of Jesus in the Incarnation. How would you describe your own response to this revelation?
2. Isaiah’s prophecy also reminds us of the role of the Blessed Virgin in the events that have transformed our lives. In what way can her example of faith inspire your own?
Reading 2 Romans 1:1-7
1 Paul, a slave of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God, 2 which he promised previously through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, 3 the gospel about his Son, descended from David according to the flesh, but established as Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness through resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord. Through him we have received the grace of apostleship, to bring about the obedience of faith,
for the sake of his name, among all the Gentiles, among whom are you also, who are called to belong to Jesus Christ;
to all the beloved of God in Rome, called to be holy. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Questions for Reflection or Group Discussion
St. Paul tells us in the second reading that we are the “beloved of God.” Do you believe this? Why or why not? Share a time in the past when you have experienced God’s love in a real way?
Gospel Matthew 1:18-24
This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man,
yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly.Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.” When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.
Questions for Reflection or Group Discussion
Describe the scene when Mary told St. Joseph that she was pregnant. How do you think Mary told him? What do you think she was feeling at the time? Describe St. Joseph’s reaction. List all the possible questions and thoughts that could have gone through his mind.
2. “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid,” the angel says to Joseph. Do you have fears regarding what God is asking in your life? What are they? How do you deal with them?
3. The Lord Jesus is Emmanuel, God with us. Knowing that this message is true, how would your life be different today if you gave all your fears over to God? Describe.
4. If you are in a small group, take some time at the end of your meeting to pray for one another that each of you would have a greater experience of Jesus’ presence in your life. Use the prayer at the end of the meditation as the starting point. In addition, during Advent, your prayers for your family should also ask God to prepare their hearts and open them so that they can receive the gift of his love this Christmas.
“They shall name him Emmanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’” (Matthew 1:23)
Whenever you’re sad, lonely, or afraid, how heartening it is to have someone say, “I’m with you,” especially when their actions back up their words!
More than seven hundred years before Jesus’ birth, a frightened ruler received just such a message—and it came from the best source imaginable. Speaking through the prophet Isaiah, God himself told King Ahaz that he would save Jerusalem from an enemy army. He even confirmed this word with a sign: “The virgin shall be with child, and bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14).
Isaiah’s word to Ahaz referred to a specific young woman—perhaps a new wife of the king’s—and her providential pregnancy. But as today’s Gospel shows, that prophecy had unsuspected depths of meaning. Inspired by the Spirit, Matthew declares that Jesus is the perfect fulfillment of that promise. As God’s own Son, conceived by the Holy Spirit, he is not just a sign of God’s presence—he is “Emmanuel.” He is “God is with us’” (Matthew 1:23).
This is the ultimate “I’m with you” statement! It tells us that through the incarnation, the all-powerful God came to rescue what was lost. It tells us that out of boundless love, he sent his only Son to share our lot and save us from sin and death. Surely Jesus is God-with-us!
Take it to heart as God’s message to you today. If you’re singing a happy song, he’s with you in your joy. If you’re feeling stressed, Jesus offers you his peace. If you’re hurting, he reminds you: “I am with you always”—in his word, in the Eucharist, in all of daily life (Matthew 28:20). If you feel inadequate for some task—raising a child, resolving a conflict, breaking a habit, finding work—turn to Jesus. Never, ever forget that God is with you!
“Jesus, I believe that you are ‘God with us.’ Help me to become more open to your presence and your will. I want to be with you always, just as you are with me.”
Reading 1 Isaiah 7:10-14
10 The LORD spoke to Ahaz, saying: 11 Ask for a sign from the LORD, your God; let it be deep as the netherworld, or high as the sky! 12 But Ahaz answered, “I will not ask! I will not tempt the LORD!” 13 Then Isaiah said: Listen, O house of David! Is it not enough for you to weary people, must you also weary my God? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.
Questions for Reflection or Group Discussion
1. In the first reading, Ahaz’ weak response to the Lord speaking to him reminds us that we too can take for granted the wonderful revelation of God’s love for us that we have in the coming of Jesus in the Incarnation. How would you describe your own response to this revelation?
2. Isaiah’s prophecy also reminds us of the role of the Blessed Virgin in the events that have transformed our lives. In what way can her example of faith inspire your own?
Reading 2 Romans 1:1-7
1 Paul, a slave of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God, 2 which he promised previously through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, 3 the gospel about his Son, descended from David according to the flesh, but established as Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness through resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord. Through him we have received the grace of apostleship, to bring about the obedience of faith,
for the sake of his name, among all the Gentiles, among whom are you also, who are called to belong to Jesus Christ;
to all the beloved of God in Rome, called to be holy. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Questions for Reflection or Group Discussion
St. Paul tells us in the second reading that we are the “beloved of God.” Do you believe this? Why or why not? Share a time in the past when you have experienced God’s love in a real way?
Gospel Matthew 1:18-24
This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man,
yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly.Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.” When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.
Questions for Reflection or Group Discussion
Describe the scene when Mary told St. Joseph that she was pregnant. How do you think Mary told him? What do you think she was feeling at the time? Describe St. Joseph’s reaction. List all the possible questions and thoughts that could have gone through his mind.
2. “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid,” the angel says to Joseph. Do you have fears regarding what God is asking in your life? What are they? How do you deal with them?
3. The Lord Jesus is Emmanuel, God with us. Knowing that this message is true, how would your life be different today if you gave all your fears over to God? Describe.
4. If you are in a small group, take some time at the end of your meeting to pray for one another that each of you would have a greater experience of Jesus’ presence in your life. Use the prayer at the end of the meditation as the starting point. In addition, during Advent, your prayers for your family should also ask God to prepare their hearts and open them so that they can receive the gift of his love this Christmas.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Readings for Sunday December 12, 2010
Third Sunday of Advent
Summary of the Gospel from YM central
Ever wanted to be 100% sure about something and continued to ask questions and get information, even when you already knew the answer deep-down inside? This is what we will read about this Sunday. The Church’s Gospel for the Third Sunday of Advent brings us back to the person of St. John the Baptist. The story begins with St. John questioning the identity of Jesus: Is He really the One? We have to admit that St. John the Baptist’s issue in this passage is a bit puzzling given other Gospel verses about the relationship between Jesus and St. John the Baptist. We know that his ministry was dedicated to paving the way for the One Who was to come, the Messiah. We know that he baptized Jesus, and we know that the two of them were cousins (didn’t they talk?). St. John the Baptist might have asked the question for a few reasons: Perhaps he, being in prison, was under stress; perhaps he wanted some reassurance that his work was for something good and not in vain; perhaps he was asking it on behalf of his own disciples, so they would change their focus from him to Jesus. Jesus answers St. John the Baptist’s disciples not by directly saying ‘yes’, but by referring them to the deeds He was been working. Jesus has shown to others that He is the Messiah by virtue of the good He has done. His actions can be simply summarized as miraculous and healing. As St. John the Baptist’s disciples were leaving Jesus, Jesus then paid him a great tribute, saying that not only was St. John the Baptist a prophet, but also as great in God’s eyes as any man who ever lived (yet, from a worldly standpoint, there has not been another person as low as he). St. John the Baptist’s entire mission was to put the focus on Christ, and to call others to a life lived for Christ, a life lived in holiness, and a life lived in service of God’s Kingdom. You and I are called to be ‘St. John the Baptist’ in today’s world, living lives of holiness with our focus completely on Jesus Christ. Especially in the commercial Christmas season, it is easy for us to forget Christ. Christ wants us to be his ‘heralds’, announcing His coming to the world. Our ‘world’ is simply where we find ourselves at each moment of our lives. Through our Baptism and Confirmation, we have been commissioned to take Christ to those who do not know Him. You and I are unique in God’s plan, in that God is completely dependent upon us to be His prophets (not because God is lacking in power, but because He has submitted Himself to our free will). May this time of preparing for Christmas be one of recommitting to Christ’s mission to make followers of all nations. You and I have a part to play in that plan. May we always be ready to gives our lives totally to Christ, always ready to give a reason for the hope that is in us.
Reading 1 Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10
1 The desert and the parched land will exult; the steppe will rejoice and bloom. 2 They will bloom with abundant flowers, and rejoice with joyful song. The glory of Lebanon will be given to them, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; they will see the glory of the LORD, the splendor of our God. 3 Strengthen the hands that are feeble, make firm the knees that are weak, 4 say to those whose hearts are frightened:
Be strong, fear not! Here is your God, he comes with vindication; with divine recompense he comes to save you. 5 Then will the eyes of the blind be opened, the ears of the deaf be cleared; 6a then will the lame leap like a stag, then the tongue of the mute will sing.
10 Those whom the LORD has ransomed will return and enter Zion singing, crowned with everlasting joy; they will meet with joy and gladness, sorrow and mourning will flee.
Question for Discussion;
1. What pressures are causing you to tremble now? How might the message of verse 4 bring strength to you?
Reading 2 James 5:7-10
7 Be patient, brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. 8 You too must be patient. Make your hearts firm, because the coming of the Lord is at hand. 9 Do not complain, brothers and sisters, about one another, that you may not be judged. Behold, the Judge is standing before the gates.
10 Take as an example of hardship and patience, brothers and sisters, the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
Question’s for Discussion;
1. What does James urge Christians to wait for patiently? (verse 7)
2. As we live out our lives, waiting to be united with Christ, what should we guard against?
3. How does the farmer image relate to our waiting? What situation in your life could take a lesson from the farmer?
Gospel Matthew 11:2-11
2 When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus 3 with this question, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” 4 Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: 5 the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them.
6 And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.” 7 As they were going off, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, “What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 8 Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. 9 Then why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.
10 This is the one about whom it is written: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you. 11 Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”
Question’s for Discussion;
1. Where is John? Why was he put in prison? How might prison raise doubts for John?
2. Does Jesus answer John more with promises or with evidence? Why?
3. How might John who knew the Old Testament well, have interpreted Jesus’ reply? (see Isaiah 35, 5-6; 61, 1)
4. Reflect on the signs of God’s presence around you. If Jesus asked you to tell what you have seen, what would you say?
5. Describe St. John the Baptist’s character: What made him so great in the eyes of Jesus? Why?
6. Jesus used His actions to prove His identity to St. John the Baptist’s disciples. How would you summarize Jesus’ actions in your life? What does this say about Who Jesus is to you?
Enjoy the readings, pass them on
IHN tommyk
Summary of the Gospel from YM central
Ever wanted to be 100% sure about something and continued to ask questions and get information, even when you already knew the answer deep-down inside? This is what we will read about this Sunday. The Church’s Gospel for the Third Sunday of Advent brings us back to the person of St. John the Baptist. The story begins with St. John questioning the identity of Jesus: Is He really the One? We have to admit that St. John the Baptist’s issue in this passage is a bit puzzling given other Gospel verses about the relationship between Jesus and St. John the Baptist. We know that his ministry was dedicated to paving the way for the One Who was to come, the Messiah. We know that he baptized Jesus, and we know that the two of them were cousins (didn’t they talk?). St. John the Baptist might have asked the question for a few reasons: Perhaps he, being in prison, was under stress; perhaps he wanted some reassurance that his work was for something good and not in vain; perhaps he was asking it on behalf of his own disciples, so they would change their focus from him to Jesus. Jesus answers St. John the Baptist’s disciples not by directly saying ‘yes’, but by referring them to the deeds He was been working. Jesus has shown to others that He is the Messiah by virtue of the good He has done. His actions can be simply summarized as miraculous and healing. As St. John the Baptist’s disciples were leaving Jesus, Jesus then paid him a great tribute, saying that not only was St. John the Baptist a prophet, but also as great in God’s eyes as any man who ever lived (yet, from a worldly standpoint, there has not been another person as low as he). St. John the Baptist’s entire mission was to put the focus on Christ, and to call others to a life lived for Christ, a life lived in holiness, and a life lived in service of God’s Kingdom. You and I are called to be ‘St. John the Baptist’ in today’s world, living lives of holiness with our focus completely on Jesus Christ. Especially in the commercial Christmas season, it is easy for us to forget Christ. Christ wants us to be his ‘heralds’, announcing His coming to the world. Our ‘world’ is simply where we find ourselves at each moment of our lives. Through our Baptism and Confirmation, we have been commissioned to take Christ to those who do not know Him. You and I are unique in God’s plan, in that God is completely dependent upon us to be His prophets (not because God is lacking in power, but because He has submitted Himself to our free will). May this time of preparing for Christmas be one of recommitting to Christ’s mission to make followers of all nations. You and I have a part to play in that plan. May we always be ready to gives our lives totally to Christ, always ready to give a reason for the hope that is in us.
Reading 1 Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10
1 The desert and the parched land will exult; the steppe will rejoice and bloom. 2 They will bloom with abundant flowers, and rejoice with joyful song. The glory of Lebanon will be given to them, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; they will see the glory of the LORD, the splendor of our God. 3 Strengthen the hands that are feeble, make firm the knees that are weak, 4 say to those whose hearts are frightened:
Be strong, fear not! Here is your God, he comes with vindication; with divine recompense he comes to save you. 5 Then will the eyes of the blind be opened, the ears of the deaf be cleared; 6a then will the lame leap like a stag, then the tongue of the mute will sing.
10 Those whom the LORD has ransomed will return and enter Zion singing, crowned with everlasting joy; they will meet with joy and gladness, sorrow and mourning will flee.
Question for Discussion;
1. What pressures are causing you to tremble now? How might the message of verse 4 bring strength to you?
Reading 2 James 5:7-10
7 Be patient, brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. 8 You too must be patient. Make your hearts firm, because the coming of the Lord is at hand. 9 Do not complain, brothers and sisters, about one another, that you may not be judged. Behold, the Judge is standing before the gates.
10 Take as an example of hardship and patience, brothers and sisters, the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
Question’s for Discussion;
1. What does James urge Christians to wait for patiently? (verse 7)
2. As we live out our lives, waiting to be united with Christ, what should we guard against?
3. How does the farmer image relate to our waiting? What situation in your life could take a lesson from the farmer?
Gospel Matthew 11:2-11
2 When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus 3 with this question, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” 4 Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: 5 the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them.
6 And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.” 7 As they were going off, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, “What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 8 Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. 9 Then why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.
10 This is the one about whom it is written: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you. 11 Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”
Question’s for Discussion;
1. Where is John? Why was he put in prison? How might prison raise doubts for John?
2. Does Jesus answer John more with promises or with evidence? Why?
3. How might John who knew the Old Testament well, have interpreted Jesus’ reply? (see Isaiah 35, 5-6; 61, 1)
4. Reflect on the signs of God’s presence around you. If Jesus asked you to tell what you have seen, what would you say?
5. Describe St. John the Baptist’s character: What made him so great in the eyes of Jesus? Why?
6. Jesus used His actions to prove His identity to St. John the Baptist’s disciples. How would you summarize Jesus’ actions in your life? What does this say about Who Jesus is to you?
Enjoy the readings, pass them on
IHN tommyk
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Readings for Sunday December 12, 2010
Third Sunday of Advent
Summary of the Gospel from YM central
Ever wanted to be 100% sure about something and continued to ask questions and get information, even when you already knew the answer deep-down inside? This is what we will read about this Sunday. The Church’s Gospel for the Third Sunday of Advent brings us back to the person of St. John the Baptist. The story begins with St. John questioning the identity of Jesus: Is He really the One? We have to admit that St. John the Baptist’s issue in this passage is a bit puzzling given other Gospel verses about the relationship between Jesus and St. John the Baptist. We know that his ministry was dedicated to paving the way for the One Who was to come, the Messiah. We know that he baptized Jesus, and we know that the two of them were cousins (didn’t they talk?). St. John the Baptist might have asked the question for a few reasons: Perhaps he, being in prison, was under stress; perhaps he wanted some reassurance that his work was for something good and not in vain; perhaps he was asking it on behalf of his own disciples, so they would change their focus from him to Jesus. Jesus answers St. John the Baptist’s disciples not by directly saying ‘yes’, but by referring them to the deeds He was been working. Jesus has shown to others that He is the Messiah by virtue of the good He has done. His actions can be simply summarized as miraculous and healing. As St. John the Baptist’s disciples were leaving Jesus, Jesus then paid him a great tribute, saying that not only was St. John the Baptist a prophet, but also as great in God’s eyes as any man who ever lived (yet, from a worldly standpoint, there has not been another person as low as he). St. John the Baptist’s entire mission was to put the focus on Christ, and to call others to a life lived for Christ, a life lived in holiness, and a life lived in service of God’s Kingdom. You and I are called to be ‘St. John the Baptist’ in today’s world, living lives of holiness with our focus completely on Jesus Christ. Especially in the commercial Christmas season, it is easy for us to forget Christ. Christ wants us to be his ‘heralds’, announcing His coming to the world. Our ‘world’ is simply where we find ourselves at each moment of our lives. Through our Baptism and Confirmation, we have been commissioned to take Christ to those who do not know Him. You and I are unique in God’s plan, in that God is completely dependent upon us to be His prophets (not because God is lacking in power, but because He has submitted Himself to our free will). May this time of preparing for Christmas be one of recommitting to Christ’s mission to make followers of all nations. You and I have a part to play in that plan. May we always be ready to gives our lives totally to Christ, always ready to give a reason for the hope that is in us.
Reading 1 Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10
1 The desert and the parched land will exult; the steppe will rejoice and bloom. 2 They will bloom with abundant flowers, and rejoice with joyful song. The glory of Lebanon will be given to them, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; they will see the glory of the LORD, the splendor of our God. 3 Strengthen the hands that are feeble, make firm the knees that are weak, 4 say to those whose hearts are frightened:
Be strong, fear not! Here is your God, he comes with vindication; with divine recompense he comes to save you. 5 Then will the eyes of the blind be opened, the ears of the deaf be cleared; 6a then will the lame leap like a stag, then the tongue of the mute will sing.
10 Those whom the LORD has ransomed will return and enter Zion singing, crowned with everlasting joy; they will meet with joy and gladness, sorrow and mourning will flee.
Question for Discussion;
1. What pressures are causing you to tremble now? How might the message of verse 4 bring strength to you?
Reading 2 James 5:7-10
7 Be patient, brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. 8 You too must be patient. Make your hearts firm, because the coming of the Lord is at hand. 9 Do not complain, brothers and sisters, about one another, that you may not be judged. Behold, the Judge is standing before the gates.
10 Take as an example of hardship and patience, brothers and sisters, the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
Question’s for Discussion;
1. What does James urge Christians to wait for patiently? (verse 7)
2. As we live out our lives, waiting to be united with Christ, what should we guard against?
3. How does the farmer image relate to our waiting? What situation in your life could take a lesson from the farmer?
Gospel Matthew 11:2-11
2 When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus 3 with this question, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” 4 Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: 5 the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them.
6 And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.” 7 As they were going off, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, “What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 8 Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. 9 Then why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.
10 This is the one about whom it is written: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you. 11 Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”
Question’s for Discussion;
1. Where is John? Why was he put in prison? How might prison raise doubts for John?
2. Does Jesus answer John more with promises or with evidence? Why?
3. How might John who knew the Old Testament well, have interpreted Jesus’ reply? (see Isaiah 35, 5-6; 61, 1)
4. Reflect on the signs of God’s presence around you. If Jesus asked you to tell what you have seen, what would you say?
5. Describe St. John the Baptist’s character: What made him so great in the eyes of Jesus? Why?
6. Jesus used His actions to prove His identity to St. John the Baptist’s disciples. How would you summarize Jesus’ actions in your life? What does this say about Who Jesus is to you?
Enjoy the readings, pass them on
IHN tommyk
Summary of the Gospel from YM central
Ever wanted to be 100% sure about something and continued to ask questions and get information, even when you already knew the answer deep-down inside? This is what we will read about this Sunday. The Church’s Gospel for the Third Sunday of Advent brings us back to the person of St. John the Baptist. The story begins with St. John questioning the identity of Jesus: Is He really the One? We have to admit that St. John the Baptist’s issue in this passage is a bit puzzling given other Gospel verses about the relationship between Jesus and St. John the Baptist. We know that his ministry was dedicated to paving the way for the One Who was to come, the Messiah. We know that he baptized Jesus, and we know that the two of them were cousins (didn’t they talk?). St. John the Baptist might have asked the question for a few reasons: Perhaps he, being in prison, was under stress; perhaps he wanted some reassurance that his work was for something good and not in vain; perhaps he was asking it on behalf of his own disciples, so they would change their focus from him to Jesus. Jesus answers St. John the Baptist’s disciples not by directly saying ‘yes’, but by referring them to the deeds He was been working. Jesus has shown to others that He is the Messiah by virtue of the good He has done. His actions can be simply summarized as miraculous and healing. As St. John the Baptist’s disciples were leaving Jesus, Jesus then paid him a great tribute, saying that not only was St. John the Baptist a prophet, but also as great in God’s eyes as any man who ever lived (yet, from a worldly standpoint, there has not been another person as low as he). St. John the Baptist’s entire mission was to put the focus on Christ, and to call others to a life lived for Christ, a life lived in holiness, and a life lived in service of God’s Kingdom. You and I are called to be ‘St. John the Baptist’ in today’s world, living lives of holiness with our focus completely on Jesus Christ. Especially in the commercial Christmas season, it is easy for us to forget Christ. Christ wants us to be his ‘heralds’, announcing His coming to the world. Our ‘world’ is simply where we find ourselves at each moment of our lives. Through our Baptism and Confirmation, we have been commissioned to take Christ to those who do not know Him. You and I are unique in God’s plan, in that God is completely dependent upon us to be His prophets (not because God is lacking in power, but because He has submitted Himself to our free will). May this time of preparing for Christmas be one of recommitting to Christ’s mission to make followers of all nations. You and I have a part to play in that plan. May we always be ready to gives our lives totally to Christ, always ready to give a reason for the hope that is in us.
Reading 1 Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10
1 The desert and the parched land will exult; the steppe will rejoice and bloom. 2 They will bloom with abundant flowers, and rejoice with joyful song. The glory of Lebanon will be given to them, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; they will see the glory of the LORD, the splendor of our God. 3 Strengthen the hands that are feeble, make firm the knees that are weak, 4 say to those whose hearts are frightened:
Be strong, fear not! Here is your God, he comes with vindication; with divine recompense he comes to save you. 5 Then will the eyes of the blind be opened, the ears of the deaf be cleared; 6a then will the lame leap like a stag, then the tongue of the mute will sing.
10 Those whom the LORD has ransomed will return and enter Zion singing, crowned with everlasting joy; they will meet with joy and gladness, sorrow and mourning will flee.
Question for Discussion;
1. What pressures are causing you to tremble now? How might the message of verse 4 bring strength to you?
Reading 2 James 5:7-10
7 Be patient, brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. 8 You too must be patient. Make your hearts firm, because the coming of the Lord is at hand. 9 Do not complain, brothers and sisters, about one another, that you may not be judged. Behold, the Judge is standing before the gates.
10 Take as an example of hardship and patience, brothers and sisters, the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
Question’s for Discussion;
1. What does James urge Christians to wait for patiently? (verse 7)
2. As we live out our lives, waiting to be united with Christ, what should we guard against?
3. How does the farmer image relate to our waiting? What situation in your life could take a lesson from the farmer?
Gospel Matthew 11:2-11
2 When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus 3 with this question, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” 4 Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: 5 the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them.
6 And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.” 7 As they were going off, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, “What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 8 Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. 9 Then why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.
10 This is the one about whom it is written: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you. 11 Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”
Question’s for Discussion;
1. Where is John? Why was he put in prison? How might prison raise doubts for John?
2. Does Jesus answer John more with promises or with evidence? Why?
3. How might John who knew the Old Testament well, have interpreted Jesus’ reply? (see Isaiah 35, 5-6; 61, 1)
4. Reflect on the signs of God’s presence around you. If Jesus asked you to tell what you have seen, what would you say?
5. Describe St. John the Baptist’s character: What made him so great in the eyes of Jesus? Why?
6. Jesus used His actions to prove His identity to St. John the Baptist’s disciples. How would you summarize Jesus’ actions in your life? What does this say about Who Jesus is to you?
Enjoy the readings, pass them on
IHN tommyk
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Readings for Sunday 12-5-2010 Second Sunday of Advent
“Repent!”
John the Baptist was Israel’s biggest hit since Elijah, the prophet who called down fire from heaven nine centuries earlier. What drew crowds to this finger-pointing hermit dressed in animal skins? Believe it or not, it was his call for repentance.When John told his listeners to turn away from sin, he also offered them promises of restoration. God wanted to do more than just pardon their offenses. He wanted to open the floodgates of heaven and shower them with his love, bringing them into a new level of healing, reconciliation, and peace.Advent is meant to be a time when we too can hear John’s words and prepare our own hearts for Jesus. Each and every day, Jesus invites us to draw near to him so that we can develop an intimate friendship with him and share even more deeply in his holiness. What can hinder this intimacy? Sin, fear, indifference to God, lack of compassion for others—these are some of the bigger obstacles. And this is why John’s call to repentance is so important.God wants to free us from everything that holds us back from surrendering to his love and his will. And he wants to do it through the gift of repentance. He wants to lead us out of guilt, alienation, and shame into joy and freedom. He is always standing ready to wash us clean and anoint us with his Spirit. He is always ready to refresh us with his mercy and power and to make us pure and spotless, ready to see Jesus when he comes again in glory. Every time we turn to him and repent, he comes to lift us up to heaven and give us another glimpse of his kingdom—a vision that fills us with hope and joy.This Advent, take some time to examine your life in the light of God’s truth and love. Then celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation freely, embracing all the grace and power God has for you.“Father, your mercy is without end. I praise you for sending your Son to redeem me and set me free.”From the Word Among Us.
Reading 1 Isaiah 11:1-10
On that day, a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse, and from his roots a bud shall blossom.The spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him: a spirit of wisdom and of understanding, a spirit of counsel and of strength, a spirit of knowledge and of fear of the LORD, and his delight shall be the fear of the LORD. Not by appearance shall he judge, nor by hearsay shall he decide, but he shall judge the poor with justice, and decide aright for the land’s afflicted. He shall strike the ruthless with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall slay the wicked. Justice shall be the band around his waist, and faithfulness a belt upon his hips. Then the wolf shall be a guest of the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; the calf and the young lion shall browse together, with a little child to guide them. The cow and the bear shall be neighbors, together their young shall rest; the lion shall eat hay like the ox. The baby shall play by the cobra’s den, and the child lay his hand on the adder’s lair. There shall be no harm or ruin on all my holy mountain; for the earth shall be filled with knowledge of the LORD, as water covers the sea. On that day, the root of Jesse, set up as a signal for the nations, the Gentiles shall seek out, for his dwelling shall be glorious.
Reading 2 Romans 15:4-9
Brothers and sisters:Whatever was written previously was written for our instruction, that by endurance and by the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to think in harmony with one another, in keeping with Christ Jesus, that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Welcome one another, then, as Christ welcomed you, for the glory of God. For I say that Christ became a minister of the circumcisedto show God’s truthfulness, to confirm the promises to the patriarchs, but so that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written: Therefore, I will praise you among the Gentiles and sing praises to your name.
Gospel Matthew 3:1-12
John the Baptist appeared, preaching in the desert of Judea and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” It was of him that the prophet Isaiah had spoken when he said: A voice of one crying out in the desert, Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths. John wore clothing made of camel’s hair and had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. At that time Jerusalem, all Judea, and the whole region around the Jordan were going out to him and were being baptized by him in the Jordan River as they acknowledged their sins.When he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Produce good fruit as evidence of your repentance. And do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you, God can raise up children to Abraham from these stones. Even now the ax lies at the root of the trees.Therefore every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. I am baptizing you with water, for repentance, but the one who is coming after me is mightier than I.I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fan is in his hand. He will clear his threshing floor and gather his wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”
Questions for Discussion:
1. In the first reading, the seven gifts of the Spirit are also mentioned. Jesus, as the perfect man, received the fullness of the Spirit and these spiritual gifts. Do you believe that these gifts are intended for you as well? Why or why not? What steps can you take to open yourself more fully to these gifts?
2. St. Paul tells the Romans of the value of the Scriptures in our lives. How well do you appreciate the Bible? Do you turn to the Scriptures for “encouragement” and “hope” as Paul suggests? What steps can you take during Advent to increase the time you spend reading Scripture, the written Word of God?
3. St. Paul also tells us the importance of unity and harmony among us. How can you be a greater source of unity and harmony during Advent in your family or with others?
4. In the Gospel, John the Baptist tells us to “Produce good fruit as evidence of your repentance.” What do you think this means? What is the fruit the Lord is asking you to bear in your life?
John the Baptist was Israel’s biggest hit since Elijah, the prophet who called down fire from heaven nine centuries earlier. What drew crowds to this finger-pointing hermit dressed in animal skins? Believe it or not, it was his call for repentance.When John told his listeners to turn away from sin, he also offered them promises of restoration. God wanted to do more than just pardon their offenses. He wanted to open the floodgates of heaven and shower them with his love, bringing them into a new level of healing, reconciliation, and peace.Advent is meant to be a time when we too can hear John’s words and prepare our own hearts for Jesus. Each and every day, Jesus invites us to draw near to him so that we can develop an intimate friendship with him and share even more deeply in his holiness. What can hinder this intimacy? Sin, fear, indifference to God, lack of compassion for others—these are some of the bigger obstacles. And this is why John’s call to repentance is so important.God wants to free us from everything that holds us back from surrendering to his love and his will. And he wants to do it through the gift of repentance. He wants to lead us out of guilt, alienation, and shame into joy and freedom. He is always standing ready to wash us clean and anoint us with his Spirit. He is always ready to refresh us with his mercy and power and to make us pure and spotless, ready to see Jesus when he comes again in glory. Every time we turn to him and repent, he comes to lift us up to heaven and give us another glimpse of his kingdom—a vision that fills us with hope and joy.This Advent, take some time to examine your life in the light of God’s truth and love. Then celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation freely, embracing all the grace and power God has for you.“Father, your mercy is without end. I praise you for sending your Son to redeem me and set me free.”From the Word Among Us.
Reading 1 Isaiah 11:1-10
On that day, a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse, and from his roots a bud shall blossom.The spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him: a spirit of wisdom and of understanding, a spirit of counsel and of strength, a spirit of knowledge and of fear of the LORD, and his delight shall be the fear of the LORD. Not by appearance shall he judge, nor by hearsay shall he decide, but he shall judge the poor with justice, and decide aright for the land’s afflicted. He shall strike the ruthless with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall slay the wicked. Justice shall be the band around his waist, and faithfulness a belt upon his hips. Then the wolf shall be a guest of the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; the calf and the young lion shall browse together, with a little child to guide them. The cow and the bear shall be neighbors, together their young shall rest; the lion shall eat hay like the ox. The baby shall play by the cobra’s den, and the child lay his hand on the adder’s lair. There shall be no harm or ruin on all my holy mountain; for the earth shall be filled with knowledge of the LORD, as water covers the sea. On that day, the root of Jesse, set up as a signal for the nations, the Gentiles shall seek out, for his dwelling shall be glorious.
Reading 2 Romans 15:4-9
Brothers and sisters:Whatever was written previously was written for our instruction, that by endurance and by the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to think in harmony with one another, in keeping with Christ Jesus, that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Welcome one another, then, as Christ welcomed you, for the glory of God. For I say that Christ became a minister of the circumcisedto show God’s truthfulness, to confirm the promises to the patriarchs, but so that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written: Therefore, I will praise you among the Gentiles and sing praises to your name.
Gospel Matthew 3:1-12
John the Baptist appeared, preaching in the desert of Judea and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” It was of him that the prophet Isaiah had spoken when he said: A voice of one crying out in the desert, Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths. John wore clothing made of camel’s hair and had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. At that time Jerusalem, all Judea, and the whole region around the Jordan were going out to him and were being baptized by him in the Jordan River as they acknowledged their sins.When he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Produce good fruit as evidence of your repentance. And do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you, God can raise up children to Abraham from these stones. Even now the ax lies at the root of the trees.Therefore every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. I am baptizing you with water, for repentance, but the one who is coming after me is mightier than I.I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fan is in his hand. He will clear his threshing floor and gather his wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”
Questions for Discussion:
1. In the first reading, the seven gifts of the Spirit are also mentioned. Jesus, as the perfect man, received the fullness of the Spirit and these spiritual gifts. Do you believe that these gifts are intended for you as well? Why or why not? What steps can you take to open yourself more fully to these gifts?
2. St. Paul tells the Romans of the value of the Scriptures in our lives. How well do you appreciate the Bible? Do you turn to the Scriptures for “encouragement” and “hope” as Paul suggests? What steps can you take during Advent to increase the time you spend reading Scripture, the written Word of God?
3. St. Paul also tells us the importance of unity and harmony among us. How can you be a greater source of unity and harmony during Advent in your family or with others?
4. In the Gospel, John the Baptist tells us to “Produce good fruit as evidence of your repentance.” What do you think this means? What is the fruit the Lord is asking you to bear in your life?
Saturday, November 27, 2010
November 28, 2010 First Sunday of Advent
“Come; let us climb the Lord’s mountain.” (Isaiah 2:3)
At this moment, Mount Everest is surrounded by numerous base camps with hundreds of climbers in various stages of ascent. Many climbers are doing something that may strike us as unusual: They are ascending and descending different stages of the mountain. It’s their way of getting their bodies used to high altitudes, where the air is thinner. These climbers know that trying a direct ascent without training your body for life at the top would be folly.
As we begin Advent, Isaiah invites us to climb the mountain of the Lord. He invites us to begin a journey that will bring us closer to Jesus and closer to our hearts’ desires. But as in all mountain climbing, this is not a casual excursion. Preparation is key. Just as the Everest climbers take months to attain their goal, we have an entire season to get ready for Christmas. So let’s come up with a good strategy!
Just as a climber needs a healthy breakfast to provide energy for the day’s climb, so do we. That’s why it is a good idea to set aside time every morning to be nourished by prayer and Scripture. And just as experienced climbers travel light, so should we examine our consciences every day so that we can repent of our sins. That way, we can stay free from unnecessary burdens of the past.
Mountain climbers know the value of pacing themselves. They work stage by stage, not expecting to reach the summit overnight. Similarly, we should approach this Advent with a sense of patience. All it takes is a few steps each day to bring us closer to our goal, while an all-out sprint will leave us exhausted and frustrated.
Jesus knows how much we want to be with him, and he wants to help us every step along the way. So take some time today to draw up a plan this Advent. You’ll be amazed at how much progress you will make by Christmas!
“Lord, you know that I love you. Teach me how to make the most of this season of grace. Lord, I want to know you more!”
Reading 1 Isaiah 2:1-5
1 This is what Isaiah, son of Amoz, saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. 2 In days to come, the mountain of the LORD’s house shall be established as the highest mountain and raised above the hills. All nations shall stream toward it; 3 many people’s shall come and say: “Come, let us climb the LORD’s mountain, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may instruct us in his ways, and we may walk in his paths.” For from Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. 4 He shall judge between the nations, and impose terms on many peoples. They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks; one nation shall not raise the sword against another, nor shall they train for war again. 4 O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the Lord!
Reading 2 Romans 13:11-14
11 Brothers and sisters: You know the time; it is the hour now for you to awake from sleep. For our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed; 12 the night is advanced, the day is at hand. Let us then throw off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light; 13 let us conduct ourselves properly as in the day, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in promiscuity and lust, not in rivalry and jealousy. 14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh.
Gospel Matthew 24:37-44
37 Jesus said to his disciples: “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. 38 In those days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day that Noah entered the ark. 39 They did not know until the flood came and carried them all away. So will it be also at the coming of the Son of Man. 40 Two men will be out in the field; one will be taken, and one will be left. 41 Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken, and one will be left. 42 Therefore, stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come. 43 Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour of night when the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and not let his house be broken into. 44 So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.”
Questions for Reflection or Group Discussion
(Isaiah 2:1-5; Romans 13:11-14; Matthew 24:37-44)
1. The whole Advent season is a time of expectant waiting for the “coming” (the meaning of the word advent) of the Savior. Jesus’ first coming has already occurred, of course, but we still await him to come into our hearts in a deeper way and we still await his second coming. What steps can you take to allow for a deeper encounter with Jesus at Mass, or during the week during Advent? In what way, if at all, do you look forward to his coming again? What are your thoughts about his second coming at the end of time?
2. The first reading says that one of the principle “instructions” we will receive from the Lord will be how to follow in his ways and “walk in his paths.” What can you do to allow the Lord to “instruct” you like this?
3. In the second reading, St. Paul tells us to “throw off the works of darkness.” Advent is a good time to examine our life and prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. How might you open more areas of your life to the “light” of Christ and allow him to heal those areas rather than keeping them closed?
4. The Gospel warns us to “stay awake” and speaks of the care and watchfulness, which should be ours as we await the coming of Jesus during this grace-filled season of Advent. What can you do to help prepare yourself and your family to receive Christ in a deeper way this Christmas?
5. The meditation ends with these words: “Jesus knows how much we want to be with him, and he wants to help us every step along the way. So take some time today to draw up a plan this Advent. You’ll be amazed at how much progress you will make by Christmas!” Are you willing to take time to draw up such a plan for yourself this Advent?
Enjoy the Good News and pass it on.
IHN tommyk
At this moment, Mount Everest is surrounded by numerous base camps with hundreds of climbers in various stages of ascent. Many climbers are doing something that may strike us as unusual: They are ascending and descending different stages of the mountain. It’s their way of getting their bodies used to high altitudes, where the air is thinner. These climbers know that trying a direct ascent without training your body for life at the top would be folly.
As we begin Advent, Isaiah invites us to climb the mountain of the Lord. He invites us to begin a journey that will bring us closer to Jesus and closer to our hearts’ desires. But as in all mountain climbing, this is not a casual excursion. Preparation is key. Just as the Everest climbers take months to attain their goal, we have an entire season to get ready for Christmas. So let’s come up with a good strategy!
Just as a climber needs a healthy breakfast to provide energy for the day’s climb, so do we. That’s why it is a good idea to set aside time every morning to be nourished by prayer and Scripture. And just as experienced climbers travel light, so should we examine our consciences every day so that we can repent of our sins. That way, we can stay free from unnecessary burdens of the past.
Mountain climbers know the value of pacing themselves. They work stage by stage, not expecting to reach the summit overnight. Similarly, we should approach this Advent with a sense of patience. All it takes is a few steps each day to bring us closer to our goal, while an all-out sprint will leave us exhausted and frustrated.
Jesus knows how much we want to be with him, and he wants to help us every step along the way. So take some time today to draw up a plan this Advent. You’ll be amazed at how much progress you will make by Christmas!
“Lord, you know that I love you. Teach me how to make the most of this season of grace. Lord, I want to know you more!”
Reading 1 Isaiah 2:1-5
1 This is what Isaiah, son of Amoz, saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem. 2 In days to come, the mountain of the LORD’s house shall be established as the highest mountain and raised above the hills. All nations shall stream toward it; 3 many people’s shall come and say: “Come, let us climb the LORD’s mountain, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may instruct us in his ways, and we may walk in his paths.” For from Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. 4 He shall judge between the nations, and impose terms on many peoples. They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks; one nation shall not raise the sword against another, nor shall they train for war again. 4 O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the Lord!
Reading 2 Romans 13:11-14
11 Brothers and sisters: You know the time; it is the hour now for you to awake from sleep. For our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed; 12 the night is advanced, the day is at hand. Let us then throw off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light; 13 let us conduct ourselves properly as in the day, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in promiscuity and lust, not in rivalry and jealousy. 14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh.
Gospel Matthew 24:37-44
37 Jesus said to his disciples: “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. 38 In those days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day that Noah entered the ark. 39 They did not know until the flood came and carried them all away. So will it be also at the coming of the Son of Man. 40 Two men will be out in the field; one will be taken, and one will be left. 41 Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken, and one will be left. 42 Therefore, stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come. 43 Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour of night when the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and not let his house be broken into. 44 So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.”
Questions for Reflection or Group Discussion
(Isaiah 2:1-5; Romans 13:11-14; Matthew 24:37-44)
1. The whole Advent season is a time of expectant waiting for the “coming” (the meaning of the word advent) of the Savior. Jesus’ first coming has already occurred, of course, but we still await him to come into our hearts in a deeper way and we still await his second coming. What steps can you take to allow for a deeper encounter with Jesus at Mass, or during the week during Advent? In what way, if at all, do you look forward to his coming again? What are your thoughts about his second coming at the end of time?
2. The first reading says that one of the principle “instructions” we will receive from the Lord will be how to follow in his ways and “walk in his paths.” What can you do to allow the Lord to “instruct” you like this?
3. In the second reading, St. Paul tells us to “throw off the works of darkness.” Advent is a good time to examine our life and prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. How might you open more areas of your life to the “light” of Christ and allow him to heal those areas rather than keeping them closed?
4. The Gospel warns us to “stay awake” and speaks of the care and watchfulness, which should be ours as we await the coming of Jesus during this grace-filled season of Advent. What can you do to help prepare yourself and your family to receive Christ in a deeper way this Christmas?
5. The meditation ends with these words: “Jesus knows how much we want to be with him, and he wants to help us every step along the way. So take some time today to draw up a plan this Advent. You’ll be amazed at how much progress you will make by Christmas!” Are you willing to take time to draw up such a plan for yourself this Advent?
Enjoy the Good News and pass it on.
IHN tommyk
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Reading’s for Sunday November 21, 2010
Come, follow this “failed” King
Our king was a failure. He pushed for a world that welcomed the weak, the powerless, and the outsider. So the powerful killed him. He gathered close followers who believed in him and his message. But most of them, including his best friend, abandoned him. He preached that nonviolence could defeat violence. And he suffered the most violent death imaginable.
Our King was a failure. What does that mean for us?
Let’s start by remembering our failures. Have your hopes ever been crushed? Have you ever been betrayed? Or ever suffered, for doing the right thing? Do you ever feel like a total screw up?
If so, then our King understands you. He’s been there, done that. You’ll never be alone in your pain. I’ll pledge loyalty to a King like that. Will you? Are you looking for a kingdom of forgiveness and hope, peace and justice; a kingdom where you need not be a success; a kingdom where you can always start over? If so, then call out to Jesus today. Ask for help to make the Kingdom of God real in your life. Forgive when others say get even. Reach out when others pull back. Dream about a better world. Let those dreams inspire you to a life of service even while others surrender to selfishness. The Kingdom is here now. You only need to enter. And our “failed” King will strengthen you when some mock and attack you. It can get tough building his Kingdom. But it’s worth the struggle. And never forget. Even though our King ‘failed” on Friday, He rose on Sunday.
Amen (from Gospel Connections for Teens)
Reading 1 2 Samuel 5:1-3
1 In those days, all the tribes of Israel came to David in Hebron and said: "Here we are, your bone and your flesh. 2 In days past, when Saul was our king, it was you who led the Israelites out and brought them back. And the LORD said to you, 'You shall shepherd my people Israel and shall be commander of Israel.'" 3 When all the elders of Israel came to David in Hebron, King David made an agreement with them there before the LORD, and they anointed him king of Israel.
Reading 2 Colossians 1:12-20
12 Brothers and sisters: Let us give thanks to the Father, who has made you fit to share in the inheritance of the holy ones in light. 13 He delivered us from the power of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For in him were created all things in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things were created through him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things he himself might be preeminent. 19 For in him all the fullness was pleased to dwell,
20 and through him to reconcile all things for him, making peace by the blood of his cross through him, whether those on earth or those in heaven.
Gospel Luke 23:35-43
35 The rulers sneered at Jesus and said, "He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Christ of God." 36 Even the soldiers jeered at him. As they approached to offer him wine 37 they called out, "If you are King of the Jews, save yourself." 38 Above him there was an inscription that read, "This is the King of the Jews." 39 Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying,
"Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us." 40 The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply,"Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? 41 And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal." 42 Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
43 He replied to him, "Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
Discussion Questions:
1. Jesus issued the Good Thief a promise that he would be with Jesus this day in Paradise. How do you think that made the Good Thief feel? How do you think it made the other thief feel?
2. Imagine if our country’s government changed tomorrow, and we were ruled by a king. How would people react to that? Why? What makes Christ’s Kingdom different than any earthly kingdom? Why?
3. By looking at the way you live your life, who (or what) is the king of your life? How can you better let Christ be the King of your life?
4. What kind of daily sacrifices does the King of Kings call us to make?
Our king was a failure. He pushed for a world that welcomed the weak, the powerless, and the outsider. So the powerful killed him. He gathered close followers who believed in him and his message. But most of them, including his best friend, abandoned him. He preached that nonviolence could defeat violence. And he suffered the most violent death imaginable.
Our King was a failure. What does that mean for us?
Let’s start by remembering our failures. Have your hopes ever been crushed? Have you ever been betrayed? Or ever suffered, for doing the right thing? Do you ever feel like a total screw up?
If so, then our King understands you. He’s been there, done that. You’ll never be alone in your pain. I’ll pledge loyalty to a King like that. Will you? Are you looking for a kingdom of forgiveness and hope, peace and justice; a kingdom where you need not be a success; a kingdom where you can always start over? If so, then call out to Jesus today. Ask for help to make the Kingdom of God real in your life. Forgive when others say get even. Reach out when others pull back. Dream about a better world. Let those dreams inspire you to a life of service even while others surrender to selfishness. The Kingdom is here now. You only need to enter. And our “failed” King will strengthen you when some mock and attack you. It can get tough building his Kingdom. But it’s worth the struggle. And never forget. Even though our King ‘failed” on Friday, He rose on Sunday.
Amen (from Gospel Connections for Teens)
Reading 1 2 Samuel 5:1-3
1 In those days, all the tribes of Israel came to David in Hebron and said: "Here we are, your bone and your flesh. 2 In days past, when Saul was our king, it was you who led the Israelites out and brought them back. And the LORD said to you, 'You shall shepherd my people Israel and shall be commander of Israel.'" 3 When all the elders of Israel came to David in Hebron, King David made an agreement with them there before the LORD, and they anointed him king of Israel.
Reading 2 Colossians 1:12-20
12 Brothers and sisters: Let us give thanks to the Father, who has made you fit to share in the inheritance of the holy ones in light. 13 He delivered us from the power of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For in him were created all things in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things were created through him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things he himself might be preeminent. 19 For in him all the fullness was pleased to dwell,
20 and through him to reconcile all things for him, making peace by the blood of his cross through him, whether those on earth or those in heaven.
Gospel Luke 23:35-43
35 The rulers sneered at Jesus and said, "He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Christ of God." 36 Even the soldiers jeered at him. As they approached to offer him wine 37 they called out, "If you are King of the Jews, save yourself." 38 Above him there was an inscription that read, "This is the King of the Jews." 39 Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying,
"Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us." 40 The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply,"Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? 41 And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal." 42 Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
43 He replied to him, "Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
Discussion Questions:
1. Jesus issued the Good Thief a promise that he would be with Jesus this day in Paradise. How do you think that made the Good Thief feel? How do you think it made the other thief feel?
2. Imagine if our country’s government changed tomorrow, and we were ruled by a king. How would people react to that? Why? What makes Christ’s Kingdom different than any earthly kingdom? Why?
3. By looking at the way you live your life, who (or what) is the king of your life? How can you better let Christ be the King of your life?
4. What kind of daily sacrifices does the King of Kings call us to make?
Friday, November 12, 2010
Readings for Sunday November 14, 2010
Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time
“By your perseverance you will secure your lives.” (Luke 21:19)
“We’ll never be perfect disciples. We’re human and face tough temptations. Wear these clothes – you’ll fit in. Drink this – you’ll have friends. Cheat – you need the grade. Laugh at them – don’t be a loser.”
We’re going to trip up.
The early Christians faced tough choices too. Luke included this passage (21:19) to warn his community about people who claimed Jesus had returned and “the end is near.” This gospel also reminds folks that Christ stands with us through temptation, persecution, and even failure.
It’s tough out there. But remember, Jesus says we secure our lives through perseverance as Christians. That means we need to keep trying. Over time we’ll see progress in our Christian living, and we’ll worry less about perfection.
Sunday’s Gospel reading tells us that Jesus’ second coming is not just a one-day event. Rather, it is the culmination of a seemingly ageless battle between light and darkness. This battle has been raging since the devil was first driven out of heaven, and Satan’s goal is to keep on fighting until everything in creation has been overwhelmed.
What the devil hasn’t counted on, however, is the surpassing per-severance of God. He remains ever the same, and his patience will not expire with a cataclysmic snap engulfing the world in darkness. No, he is ever kind, compassionate, and gentle toward his people. He will never abandon the world to the devil. And neither will he let us succeed in totally destroying one another. He is waiting patiently, “not wishing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).
When we ponder the Second Coming—as we do every year at this time—we have two choices. Either we can become frightened and over-whelmed, or we can recall the truths of the gospel. God is in control of everything. We are safe and secure in Christ. We know the One in whom we have believed—Jesus, who died out of love for us. He is able to guard us until he comes again. We can place our trust and hope in him.
Why are we fooled by appearances? Why are we lulled into complacency by the calm before the storm? (Remember September 10th?) Why are we tempted to give up when the world finally comes crashing down around our ears? Focused upon the end of the world, Jesus addressed these questions in Luke's gospel.
So in the midst of upheavals such as the ones Jesus described, hold on to hope. From beginning to end, he reassures us, “Do not be terrified” (Luke 21:9). “Not a hair on your head will be destroyed” (21:18). We don’t even have to worry about how to defend ourselves, for Jesus will give us the wisdom we need. In Christ, through faith and obedience, we will never be left alone. So lift up your heart to the Lord and entrust every-thing—all times, all seasons—into his loving care.
“Lord, I believe that you love and watch over me at all times. Strengthen my faith and my resolve to obey you, so that I may endure in patient hope until the day you come again.”
Reading 1 Malachi 3:19-20a
19 Lo, the day is coming, blazing like an oven, when all the proud and all evildoers will be stubble, and the day that is coming will set them on fire, leaving them neither root nor branch, says the LORD of hosts. 20a But for you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing rays.
Question: Have you ever called out to God for the bad times to end? What happened?
When will evil be taken from our eyes? When will our enemies taste justice? These questions are as old as humanity, yet as new as today's reports. This vexing can be summed up in one question. Lord, when will you come?
The prophet Malachi proclaimed his oracles when the world was undergoing change. In the fifth century B.C., the Persian Empire returned the Jews to their homeland from exile in Babylon. Yet, these benevolent rulers faced the rising menace from the Greeks to the west. At home, the excitement of the return had worn thin. Jewish leadership (especially in the Temple) had returned to its corrupt ways. The poor suffered at the hands of the rich. Lost in the stress of political instability and religious corruption was faith. In the face of this turmoil, God was forgotten.
The prophet wrote a simple message. God would return. In the coming day of judgement, the Lord would consume the evil like a flash fire of intense heat. But that same fire would sooth the faithful. [19-20a]
God's judgment is a two-edged sword. It condemns yet vindicates. His judgment will come, despite the seeming delay. But rest assured. It will come.
How do you look forward to the coming of the Lord?
Reading 2 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12
7 Brothers and sisters: You know how one must imitate us. For we did not act in a disorderly way among you, 8 nor did we eat food received free from anyone. On the contrary, in toil and drudgery, night and day we worked, so as not to burden any of you. 9 Not that we do not have the right. Rather, we wanted to present ourselves as a model for you, so that you might imitate us. 10 In fact, when we were with you, we instructed you that if anyone was unwilling to work, neither should that one eat. 11 We hear that some are conducting themselves among you in a disorderly way, by not keeping busy but minding the business of others. 12 Such people we instruct and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to work quietly and to eat their own food.
Question: Do you pray for wisdom when you contribute your time, energy, and money in charitable work? How has that prayer helped you?
In 2 Thessalonians, the author did address the limits of Christian charity. Charity was meant to help those in need, not the lazy in want. Those who can work should, those who cannot work should receive help.
Sometimes it is difficult to distinguish between those in need and those in want. Obviously, decisions when and where to give charity require wisdom. Let us pray for this virtue when we place limits on Christian charity.
Gospel Luke 21:5-19
5 While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, "6 All that you see here--the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down."
7 Then they asked him, "Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?" 8 He answered, "See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying,
'I am he,’ and 'The time has come.’ Do not follow them! 9 When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end." 10 Then he said to them, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.
12 "Before all this happens, however, they will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name.
13 It will lead to your giving testimony. 14 Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, 15 for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. 16 You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends and they will put some of you to death.
17 You will be hated by all because of my name, 18 but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. 19 By your perseverance you will secure your lives."
Question: How impressed are we with appearances? After all, media, Hollywood, and much of computer software are built on appearance. Sometimes, we Americans are swayed and even hood-winked by appearances. There was calm before the storm. Then, there was a panic with a world that failed us. Are we lulled by calm? Are we surprised by panic?
The challenge Jesus put before us is clear vision. Can we see beyond the crises of life and nation? Can our faith help us to withstand the challenges of these uncertain times? With God's help, we can.
Pray this week for the strength to see clearly. Look at the world at large, or at your world. Try to see beyond the troubles and look for God's will. Trust your prayer will be answered.
Something to think about!!
Are these the end times? Is the end of the world getting close? It seems so many of the Biblical prophecies about the end of the world are coming true….. what do you think?
Have you ever tried to make a prediction? Here are some predictions from the past. All from people who were trusted individuals:
Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM, in 1943 said, "I think there is a world market for maybe five computers."
Popular Mechanics magazine in 1949 made this prediction: "Where a calculator on the ENIAC is equipped with 18,000 vacuum tubes and weighs 30 tons, computers in the future may have only 1,000 vacuum tubes and weigh only 1.5 tons."
There was an inventor by the name of Lee DeForest. He claimed that "While theoretically and technically television may be feasible, commercially and financially it is an impossibility."
The Decca Recording Co. made a big mistake when they made this prediction: "We don't like their sound, and guitar music is on the way out." That was their prediction in 1962 concerning a few lads form Liverpool. Their band was called the Beatles.
As the disciples walked out of the Temple in Jerusalem Jesus paused with his disciples, looked back at the Temple an predicted, "Do you see all these great buildings. Not one stone will be left on another." To the disciples this was bedrock. Nothing could bring down these walls. "Look, teacher! What massive stones! What magnificent buildings!" they said to Jesus.
The smallest stones in the structure weighed 2 to 3 tons. Many of them weighed 50 tons. The largest existing stone is 12 meters in length and 3 meters high, and it weighed hundreds of tons! The stones were so immense that neither mortar nor any other binding material was used between the stones. Their stability was attained by the great weight of the stones. The walls towered over Jerusalem, over 400 feet in one area. Inside the four walls was 45 acres of bedrock mountain shaved flat and during Jesus' day a quarter of a million people could fit comfortably within the structure. No sports structure in America today comes close.
You can then understand the disciples surprise. As they walked down the Kidron valley and up mount olive Peter, James and John wanted to hear more.
Jesus' prediction that a structure so immense would be leveled to the ground seemed implausible. But they pressed Jesus for more information. They wanted to know when. What would be the sign that this was about to take place. In their voice was fear. Fear of the unknown. Fear that their lives were about to change forever. Jesus had not made any predictions like this one. This was different. This, they could understand.
Forty years later Jesus' prediction came true. In 70 AD the Temple was destroyed by Rome. What are we to learn from this prediction and its fulfillment?
“By your perseverance you will secure your lives.” (Luke 21:19)
“We’ll never be perfect disciples. We’re human and face tough temptations. Wear these clothes – you’ll fit in. Drink this – you’ll have friends. Cheat – you need the grade. Laugh at them – don’t be a loser.”
We’re going to trip up.
The early Christians faced tough choices too. Luke included this passage (21:19) to warn his community about people who claimed Jesus had returned and “the end is near.” This gospel also reminds folks that Christ stands with us through temptation, persecution, and even failure.
It’s tough out there. But remember, Jesus says we secure our lives through perseverance as Christians. That means we need to keep trying. Over time we’ll see progress in our Christian living, and we’ll worry less about perfection.
Sunday’s Gospel reading tells us that Jesus’ second coming is not just a one-day event. Rather, it is the culmination of a seemingly ageless battle between light and darkness. This battle has been raging since the devil was first driven out of heaven, and Satan’s goal is to keep on fighting until everything in creation has been overwhelmed.
What the devil hasn’t counted on, however, is the surpassing per-severance of God. He remains ever the same, and his patience will not expire with a cataclysmic snap engulfing the world in darkness. No, he is ever kind, compassionate, and gentle toward his people. He will never abandon the world to the devil. And neither will he let us succeed in totally destroying one another. He is waiting patiently, “not wishing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).
When we ponder the Second Coming—as we do every year at this time—we have two choices. Either we can become frightened and over-whelmed, or we can recall the truths of the gospel. God is in control of everything. We are safe and secure in Christ. We know the One in whom we have believed—Jesus, who died out of love for us. He is able to guard us until he comes again. We can place our trust and hope in him.
Why are we fooled by appearances? Why are we lulled into complacency by the calm before the storm? (Remember September 10th?) Why are we tempted to give up when the world finally comes crashing down around our ears? Focused upon the end of the world, Jesus addressed these questions in Luke's gospel.
So in the midst of upheavals such as the ones Jesus described, hold on to hope. From beginning to end, he reassures us, “Do not be terrified” (Luke 21:9). “Not a hair on your head will be destroyed” (21:18). We don’t even have to worry about how to defend ourselves, for Jesus will give us the wisdom we need. In Christ, through faith and obedience, we will never be left alone. So lift up your heart to the Lord and entrust every-thing—all times, all seasons—into his loving care.
“Lord, I believe that you love and watch over me at all times. Strengthen my faith and my resolve to obey you, so that I may endure in patient hope until the day you come again.”
Reading 1 Malachi 3:19-20a
19 Lo, the day is coming, blazing like an oven, when all the proud and all evildoers will be stubble, and the day that is coming will set them on fire, leaving them neither root nor branch, says the LORD of hosts. 20a But for you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing rays.
Question: Have you ever called out to God for the bad times to end? What happened?
When will evil be taken from our eyes? When will our enemies taste justice? These questions are as old as humanity, yet as new as today's reports. This vexing can be summed up in one question. Lord, when will you come?
The prophet Malachi proclaimed his oracles when the world was undergoing change. In the fifth century B.C., the Persian Empire returned the Jews to their homeland from exile in Babylon. Yet, these benevolent rulers faced the rising menace from the Greeks to the west. At home, the excitement of the return had worn thin. Jewish leadership (especially in the Temple) had returned to its corrupt ways. The poor suffered at the hands of the rich. Lost in the stress of political instability and religious corruption was faith. In the face of this turmoil, God was forgotten.
The prophet wrote a simple message. God would return. In the coming day of judgement, the Lord would consume the evil like a flash fire of intense heat. But that same fire would sooth the faithful. [19-20a]
God's judgment is a two-edged sword. It condemns yet vindicates. His judgment will come, despite the seeming delay. But rest assured. It will come.
How do you look forward to the coming of the Lord?
Reading 2 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12
7 Brothers and sisters: You know how one must imitate us. For we did not act in a disorderly way among you, 8 nor did we eat food received free from anyone. On the contrary, in toil and drudgery, night and day we worked, so as not to burden any of you. 9 Not that we do not have the right. Rather, we wanted to present ourselves as a model for you, so that you might imitate us. 10 In fact, when we were with you, we instructed you that if anyone was unwilling to work, neither should that one eat. 11 We hear that some are conducting themselves among you in a disorderly way, by not keeping busy but minding the business of others. 12 Such people we instruct and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to work quietly and to eat their own food.
Question: Do you pray for wisdom when you contribute your time, energy, and money in charitable work? How has that prayer helped you?
In 2 Thessalonians, the author did address the limits of Christian charity. Charity was meant to help those in need, not the lazy in want. Those who can work should, those who cannot work should receive help.
Sometimes it is difficult to distinguish between those in need and those in want. Obviously, decisions when and where to give charity require wisdom. Let us pray for this virtue when we place limits on Christian charity.
Gospel Luke 21:5-19
5 While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, "6 All that you see here--the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down."
7 Then they asked him, "Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?" 8 He answered, "See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying,
'I am he,’ and 'The time has come.’ Do not follow them! 9 When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end." 10 Then he said to them, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.
12 "Before all this happens, however, they will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name.
13 It will lead to your giving testimony. 14 Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, 15 for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. 16 You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends and they will put some of you to death.
17 You will be hated by all because of my name, 18 but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. 19 By your perseverance you will secure your lives."
Question: How impressed are we with appearances? After all, media, Hollywood, and much of computer software are built on appearance. Sometimes, we Americans are swayed and even hood-winked by appearances. There was calm before the storm. Then, there was a panic with a world that failed us. Are we lulled by calm? Are we surprised by panic?
The challenge Jesus put before us is clear vision. Can we see beyond the crises of life and nation? Can our faith help us to withstand the challenges of these uncertain times? With God's help, we can.
Pray this week for the strength to see clearly. Look at the world at large, or at your world. Try to see beyond the troubles and look for God's will. Trust your prayer will be answered.
Something to think about!!
Are these the end times? Is the end of the world getting close? It seems so many of the Biblical prophecies about the end of the world are coming true….. what do you think?
Have you ever tried to make a prediction? Here are some predictions from the past. All from people who were trusted individuals:
Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM, in 1943 said, "I think there is a world market for maybe five computers."
Popular Mechanics magazine in 1949 made this prediction: "Where a calculator on the ENIAC is equipped with 18,000 vacuum tubes and weighs 30 tons, computers in the future may have only 1,000 vacuum tubes and weigh only 1.5 tons."
There was an inventor by the name of Lee DeForest. He claimed that "While theoretically and technically television may be feasible, commercially and financially it is an impossibility."
The Decca Recording Co. made a big mistake when they made this prediction: "We don't like their sound, and guitar music is on the way out." That was their prediction in 1962 concerning a few lads form Liverpool. Their band was called the Beatles.
As the disciples walked out of the Temple in Jerusalem Jesus paused with his disciples, looked back at the Temple an predicted, "Do you see all these great buildings. Not one stone will be left on another." To the disciples this was bedrock. Nothing could bring down these walls. "Look, teacher! What massive stones! What magnificent buildings!" they said to Jesus.
The smallest stones in the structure weighed 2 to 3 tons. Many of them weighed 50 tons. The largest existing stone is 12 meters in length and 3 meters high, and it weighed hundreds of tons! The stones were so immense that neither mortar nor any other binding material was used between the stones. Their stability was attained by the great weight of the stones. The walls towered over Jerusalem, over 400 feet in one area. Inside the four walls was 45 acres of bedrock mountain shaved flat and during Jesus' day a quarter of a million people could fit comfortably within the structure. No sports structure in America today comes close.
You can then understand the disciples surprise. As they walked down the Kidron valley and up mount olive Peter, James and John wanted to hear more.
Jesus' prediction that a structure so immense would be leveled to the ground seemed implausible. But they pressed Jesus for more information. They wanted to know when. What would be the sign that this was about to take place. In their voice was fear. Fear of the unknown. Fear that their lives were about to change forever. Jesus had not made any predictions like this one. This was different. This, they could understand.
Forty years later Jesus' prediction came true. In 70 AD the Temple was destroyed by Rome. What are we to learn from this prediction and its fulfillment?
Readings for November 7, 2010 Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Don’t close your mind to God
The Sadducees were members of a religious group whose beliefs differed from Jesus’ teachings. For instance they didn’t believe in the Resurrection or in Angels. But in this week’s Gospel. They didn’t listen to him and rethink their positions; instead, they made an argument that mocked His beliefs.
That’s too common in our society. People don’t listen to one another; instead, they attack or belittle one another. It’s an easy style to adopt. You don’t have to think if you can shout down or mock your opponent. But that’s how you miss God’s wisdom. This week’s Gospel reminds us that sometimes God challenges our positions on things like religion, school and family. That challenge will likely come through friends, pastors, teachers and family members. The Spirit calls us to keep our minds open, especially to people with whom we disagree.
• When you disagree with someone, avoid the temptation to close your mind or respond with sarcasm or personal attacks. Think. Ask God to help you consider opposing opinions closely.
• Don’t let pride get in the way. God calls us to full life, but we miss out—like the Sadducees did—when were not open to the spiritual and intellectual changes that life brings.
What makes it tough for you to keep your mind open when you disagree with someone?
Reading 1 2 Maccabees7:1-2, 9-14
1 It happened that seven brothers with their mother were arrested and tortured with whips and scourges by the king, to force them to eat pork in violation of God's law. 2 One of the brothers, speaking for the others, said: "What do you expect to achieve by questioning us? We are ready to die rather than transgress the laws of our ancestors." 9 At the point of death he said: "You accursed fiend, you are depriving us of this present life, but the King of the world will raise us up to live again forever. It is for his laws that we are dying."10 After him the third suffered their cruel sport. He put out his tongue at once when told to do so, and bravely held out his hands, 11 as he spoke these noble words: "It was from Heaven that I received these; for the sake of his laws I disdain them; from him I hope to receive them again." 12 Even the king and his attendants marveled at the young man's courage, because he regarded his sufferings as nothing. 13 After he had died, they tortured and maltreated the fourth brother in the same way. 14 When he was near death, he said, "It is my choice to die at the hands of men with the hope God gives of being raised up by him; but for you, there will be no resurrection to life."
Reading 2 2 Thessalonians 2:16-3:5
16 Brothers and sisters: May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting encouragement and good hope through his grace, 17 encourage your hearts and strengthen them in every good deed and word. 3:1 Finally, brothers and sisters, pray for us, so that the word of the Lord may speed forward and be glorified, as it did among you, 2 and that we may be delivered from perverse and wicked people, for not all have faith. 3 But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one. 4 We are confident of you in the Lord that what we instruct you, you are doing and will continue to do. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the endurance of Christ.
Gospel Luke 20:27-38
27 Some Sadducees, those who deny that there is a resurrection, came forward and put this question to Jesus, 28 saying, "Teacher, Moses wrote for us, If someone's brother dies leaving a wife but no child, his brother must take the wife and raise up descendants for his brother. 29 Now there were seven brothers; the first married a woman but died childless. 30 Then the second 31 and the third married her, and likewise all the seven died childless. 32 Finally the woman also died. 33 Now at the resurrection whose wife will that woman be? For all seven had been married to her." 34 Jesus said to them, "The children of this age marry and remarry; 35 but those who are deemed worthy to attain to the coming age and to the resurrection of the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. 36 They can no longer die, for they are like angels; and theyare the children of God because they are the ones who will rise. 37 That the dead will rise even Moses made known in the passage about the bush, when he called out 'Lord, ' the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob; 38 and he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive."
Discussion Questions
1. Paint the scene in this Gospel: What kind of a threat do you think Jesus posed to the Sadducees? Why do you think they wanted to trip Him up? What kind of an answer do you think they thought they'd get from Him?
2. What is your biggest question about what heaven will be like? Complete the following statement: Heaven would be really cool if it had __________.
3. Pretend for a minute that you are a defense attorney: How would you defend the teaching of the bodily resurrection to a non-believer?
Everyone thought Jen’s mom was the nicest person in the world. She would always take the time to talk, to help neighbors with problems and projects, to entertain all the children on the block.
“Want anything to eat?” Jen’s mom would ask her friends, as she held out a plate of cookies.
“Thanks!” Jen’s friends said as they wolfed down the treats.
“Your mom’s the best,” one neighbor remarked.
“Yeah,” another agreed, “we like to come to your house, Jen.”
“Have you ever noticed there is someone always visiting?” a third added.
One day, Jen’s mom got sick. She had to be rushed to the hospital and have an operation. That was a dark week in the neighborhood because everyone felt the loss of Jen’s mom. “She gave so much love,” someone said. “It was like she lived for other people,” another person said.
The people on Jen’s block decided to help her family. It was their way to say “thank you” and return the love they had received. When Jen’s mom returned home from the hospital, she was overwhelmed with the flowers and cards and goodies and meals. The house was totally cleaned inside; outside the lawn was trimmed and the fence was painted. This was all done by neighbors who cared.
When people do nice things for us, they share a little of their life with us. When people love us they share life with us. We have a God like Jen’s mom; he loves us so much, he lives for us. And he wants us to live for him so much that we will never die. He gave his word to us on that.
Closing Question: God loves us so much, he gives us his life. How can we share that life with others?
Don’t close your mind to God
The Sadducees were members of a religious group whose beliefs differed from Jesus’ teachings. For instance they didn’t believe in the Resurrection or in Angels. But in this week’s Gospel. They didn’t listen to him and rethink their positions; instead, they made an argument that mocked His beliefs.
That’s too common in our society. People don’t listen to one another; instead, they attack or belittle one another. It’s an easy style to adopt. You don’t have to think if you can shout down or mock your opponent. But that’s how you miss God’s wisdom. This week’s Gospel reminds us that sometimes God challenges our positions on things like religion, school and family. That challenge will likely come through friends, pastors, teachers and family members. The Spirit calls us to keep our minds open, especially to people with whom we disagree.
• When you disagree with someone, avoid the temptation to close your mind or respond with sarcasm or personal attacks. Think. Ask God to help you consider opposing opinions closely.
• Don’t let pride get in the way. God calls us to full life, but we miss out—like the Sadducees did—when were not open to the spiritual and intellectual changes that life brings.
What makes it tough for you to keep your mind open when you disagree with someone?
Reading 1 2 Maccabees7:1-2, 9-14
1 It happened that seven brothers with their mother were arrested and tortured with whips and scourges by the king, to force them to eat pork in violation of God's law. 2 One of the brothers, speaking for the others, said: "What do you expect to achieve by questioning us? We are ready to die rather than transgress the laws of our ancestors." 9 At the point of death he said: "You accursed fiend, you are depriving us of this present life, but the King of the world will raise us up to live again forever. It is for his laws that we are dying."10 After him the third suffered their cruel sport. He put out his tongue at once when told to do so, and bravely held out his hands, 11 as he spoke these noble words: "It was from Heaven that I received these; for the sake of his laws I disdain them; from him I hope to receive them again." 12 Even the king and his attendants marveled at the young man's courage, because he regarded his sufferings as nothing. 13 After he had died, they tortured and maltreated the fourth brother in the same way. 14 When he was near death, he said, "It is my choice to die at the hands of men with the hope God gives of being raised up by him; but for you, there will be no resurrection to life."
Reading 2 2 Thessalonians 2:16-3:5
16 Brothers and sisters: May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting encouragement and good hope through his grace, 17 encourage your hearts and strengthen them in every good deed and word. 3:1 Finally, brothers and sisters, pray for us, so that the word of the Lord may speed forward and be glorified, as it did among you, 2 and that we may be delivered from perverse and wicked people, for not all have faith. 3 But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one. 4 We are confident of you in the Lord that what we instruct you, you are doing and will continue to do. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the endurance of Christ.
Gospel Luke 20:27-38
27 Some Sadducees, those who deny that there is a resurrection, came forward and put this question to Jesus, 28 saying, "Teacher, Moses wrote for us, If someone's brother dies leaving a wife but no child, his brother must take the wife and raise up descendants for his brother. 29 Now there were seven brothers; the first married a woman but died childless. 30 Then the second 31 and the third married her, and likewise all the seven died childless. 32 Finally the woman also died. 33 Now at the resurrection whose wife will that woman be? For all seven had been married to her." 34 Jesus said to them, "The children of this age marry and remarry; 35 but those who are deemed worthy to attain to the coming age and to the resurrection of the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. 36 They can no longer die, for they are like angels; and theyare the children of God because they are the ones who will rise. 37 That the dead will rise even Moses made known in the passage about the bush, when he called out 'Lord, ' the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob; 38 and he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive."
Discussion Questions
1. Paint the scene in this Gospel: What kind of a threat do you think Jesus posed to the Sadducees? Why do you think they wanted to trip Him up? What kind of an answer do you think they thought they'd get from Him?
2. What is your biggest question about what heaven will be like? Complete the following statement: Heaven would be really cool if it had __________.
3. Pretend for a minute that you are a defense attorney: How would you defend the teaching of the bodily resurrection to a non-believer?
Everyone thought Jen’s mom was the nicest person in the world. She would always take the time to talk, to help neighbors with problems and projects, to entertain all the children on the block.
“Want anything to eat?” Jen’s mom would ask her friends, as she held out a plate of cookies.
“Thanks!” Jen’s friends said as they wolfed down the treats.
“Your mom’s the best,” one neighbor remarked.
“Yeah,” another agreed, “we like to come to your house, Jen.”
“Have you ever noticed there is someone always visiting?” a third added.
One day, Jen’s mom got sick. She had to be rushed to the hospital and have an operation. That was a dark week in the neighborhood because everyone felt the loss of Jen’s mom. “She gave so much love,” someone said. “It was like she lived for other people,” another person said.
The people on Jen’s block decided to help her family. It was their way to say “thank you” and return the love they had received. When Jen’s mom returned home from the hospital, she was overwhelmed with the flowers and cards and goodies and meals. The house was totally cleaned inside; outside the lawn was trimmed and the fence was painted. This was all done by neighbors who cared.
When people do nice things for us, they share a little of their life with us. When people love us they share life with us. We have a God like Jen’s mom; he loves us so much, he lives for us. And he wants us to live for him so much that we will never die. He gave his word to us on that.
Closing Question: God loves us so much, he gives us his life. How can we share that life with others?
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Readings or Sunday October 31, 2010
Thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time
Summary of the Gospel
Ever struggle with thinking you never make mistakes? A look at this reading and you'll find that God calls us to not hide anything from Him. In this Gospel, Jesus finds Himself passing through Jericho. Somehow the townspeople knew He was coming through, and one of them, Zacchaeus, wanted to see Jesus. Zacchaeus was having a conversion of heart, for his job as a tax collector had made him an enemy of many: Zacchaeus had become famous for taking money from others, to the point where he had profited greatly from it. All we know is that Zacchaeus just wanted to see Jesus, but Jesus made an effort to find Zacchaeus and call him by name. What Jesus does here with Zacchaeus, He does with each of us - call us by name. We do not know how Jesus knew Zacchaeus' name, but He did, and He asked to stay at Zacchaeus' house. This of course caused scandal with those who knew Zacchaeus, for staying in someone's house meant that you put yourself in league with that person, that you associated yourself with that person and their beliefs. Jesus was making a conscious decision to put Himself on the level of a sinner so that person would rise to holiness. When he came face-to-face with Jesus, Zacchaeus had a complete change of heart, and wanted to reconcile and make up for the wrong he had done in the past. Zacchaeus' desire not only to seek forgiveness, but to do penance to make up for the effects of his sin, showed Jesus that he was truly sorry for his sin. This act of righteousness on Zacchaeus' part is what prompted Jesus to say that salvation has come to Zacchaeus' house: To be a true descendant of Abraham is not a physical reality, but a spiritual one, a reality in which we put our faith in God and trust that He will bring the best out of everything, including our sins. Zacchaeus is a model to us of the importance of tying up lose ends. If we have wronged others, or sinned against God in any way, Jesus invites us to make up completely for the wrong we do. Better that we take care of our sin in this life than God takes care of it for us in the next! Many times we choose not to admit our mistakes because of pride. This pride can be spiritually deadly, because God cannot work if we don't admit our need for Him. The best way you and I can handle our sin is to admit it, confess it, and make up for it. Jesus gives us this opportunity in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. If you have been away from the Sacrament for a while, make it a point to visit Jesus there. He wants you to be completely free from sin, but the only way that happens is if you take Him up on His offer. May we have the grace to be completely humble before God, admitting our need for His help in all things, especially overcoming our sin.
Reading 1 Wisdom 11:22-12:2
Before the LORD the whole universe is as a grain from a balance or a drop of morning dew come down upon the earth. But you have mercy on all, because you can do all things; and you overlook people's sins that they may repent. For you love all things that are and loathe nothing that you have made; for what you hated, you would not have fashioned. And how could a thing remain, unless you willed it; or be preserved, had it not been called forth by you? But you spare all things, because they are yours, O LORD and lover of souls, for your imperishable spirit is in all things! Therefore you rebuke offenders little by little, warn them and remind them of the sins they are committing, that they may abandon their wickedness and believe in you, O LORD!
Reading 2 2 Thessalonians 1:11-2:2
Brothers and sisters: We always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and powerfully bring to fulfillment every good purpose and every effort of faith, that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, in accord with the grace of our God and Lord Jesus Christ.
We ask you, brothers and sisters, with regard to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our assembling with him, not to be shaken out of your minds suddenly, or to be alarmed either by a "spirit," or by an oral statement, or by a letter allegedly from us to the effect that the day of the Lord is at hand.
Gospel Luke 19:1-10
At that time, Jesus came to Jericho and intended to pass through the town. Now a man there named Zacchaeus, who was a chief tax collector and also a wealthy man, was seeking to see who Jesus was;
but he could not see him because of the crowd, for he was short in stature. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree in order to see Jesus, who was about to pass that way. When he reached the place, Jesus looked up and said, "Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house." And he came down quickly and received him with joy. When they all saw this, they began to grumble, saying, "He has gone to stay at the house of a sinner." But Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, "Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over." And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost."
Discussion Questions:
1. Why do you think that the crowd was grumbling about Jesus wanting to stay with Zacchaeus? What kinds of people are looked down upon today, in our culture, as 'sinners'? How do you think Jesus would reach out to them? How can you reach out to them as Jesus?
2. Describe an experience of reconciliation in your life: What kind of joy and peace did it bring?
3. Describe how Jesus has sought you out in your life. List three ways from your life in which Jesus has touched you and called you by name.
Summary of the Gospel
Ever struggle with thinking you never make mistakes? A look at this reading and you'll find that God calls us to not hide anything from Him. In this Gospel, Jesus finds Himself passing through Jericho. Somehow the townspeople knew He was coming through, and one of them, Zacchaeus, wanted to see Jesus. Zacchaeus was having a conversion of heart, for his job as a tax collector had made him an enemy of many: Zacchaeus had become famous for taking money from others, to the point where he had profited greatly from it. All we know is that Zacchaeus just wanted to see Jesus, but Jesus made an effort to find Zacchaeus and call him by name. What Jesus does here with Zacchaeus, He does with each of us - call us by name. We do not know how Jesus knew Zacchaeus' name, but He did, and He asked to stay at Zacchaeus' house. This of course caused scandal with those who knew Zacchaeus, for staying in someone's house meant that you put yourself in league with that person, that you associated yourself with that person and their beliefs. Jesus was making a conscious decision to put Himself on the level of a sinner so that person would rise to holiness. When he came face-to-face with Jesus, Zacchaeus had a complete change of heart, and wanted to reconcile and make up for the wrong he had done in the past. Zacchaeus' desire not only to seek forgiveness, but to do penance to make up for the effects of his sin, showed Jesus that he was truly sorry for his sin. This act of righteousness on Zacchaeus' part is what prompted Jesus to say that salvation has come to Zacchaeus' house: To be a true descendant of Abraham is not a physical reality, but a spiritual one, a reality in which we put our faith in God and trust that He will bring the best out of everything, including our sins. Zacchaeus is a model to us of the importance of tying up lose ends. If we have wronged others, or sinned against God in any way, Jesus invites us to make up completely for the wrong we do. Better that we take care of our sin in this life than God takes care of it for us in the next! Many times we choose not to admit our mistakes because of pride. This pride can be spiritually deadly, because God cannot work if we don't admit our need for Him. The best way you and I can handle our sin is to admit it, confess it, and make up for it. Jesus gives us this opportunity in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. If you have been away from the Sacrament for a while, make it a point to visit Jesus there. He wants you to be completely free from sin, but the only way that happens is if you take Him up on His offer. May we have the grace to be completely humble before God, admitting our need for His help in all things, especially overcoming our sin.
Reading 1 Wisdom 11:22-12:2
Before the LORD the whole universe is as a grain from a balance or a drop of morning dew come down upon the earth. But you have mercy on all, because you can do all things; and you overlook people's sins that they may repent. For you love all things that are and loathe nothing that you have made; for what you hated, you would not have fashioned. And how could a thing remain, unless you willed it; or be preserved, had it not been called forth by you? But you spare all things, because they are yours, O LORD and lover of souls, for your imperishable spirit is in all things! Therefore you rebuke offenders little by little, warn them and remind them of the sins they are committing, that they may abandon their wickedness and believe in you, O LORD!
Reading 2 2 Thessalonians 1:11-2:2
Brothers and sisters: We always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and powerfully bring to fulfillment every good purpose and every effort of faith, that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, in accord with the grace of our God and Lord Jesus Christ.
We ask you, brothers and sisters, with regard to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our assembling with him, not to be shaken out of your minds suddenly, or to be alarmed either by a "spirit," or by an oral statement, or by a letter allegedly from us to the effect that the day of the Lord is at hand.
Gospel Luke 19:1-10
At that time, Jesus came to Jericho and intended to pass through the town. Now a man there named Zacchaeus, who was a chief tax collector and also a wealthy man, was seeking to see who Jesus was;
but he could not see him because of the crowd, for he was short in stature. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree in order to see Jesus, who was about to pass that way. When he reached the place, Jesus looked up and said, "Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house." And he came down quickly and received him with joy. When they all saw this, they began to grumble, saying, "He has gone to stay at the house of a sinner." But Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, "Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over." And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost."
Discussion Questions:
1. Why do you think that the crowd was grumbling about Jesus wanting to stay with Zacchaeus? What kinds of people are looked down upon today, in our culture, as 'sinners'? How do you think Jesus would reach out to them? How can you reach out to them as Jesus?
2. Describe an experience of reconciliation in your life: What kind of joy and peace did it bring?
3. Describe how Jesus has sought you out in your life. List three ways from your life in which Jesus has touched you and called you by name.
Readings for Sunday October 24, 2010
Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Summary of the Gospel from YM Central
Ever think that you have all the right answers and that you’ve got things down pat? Better think again. In this passage from St. Luke, Jesus addresses the sin of self-righteousness that is, thinking that we can, on our own power, be right before God. To illustrate this, Jesus pits a Pharisee, a religious leader of His day, against a tax collector, a person hated by many because he constantly took and stole money from the people. To the listener of Jesus’ time, there would be no question that the Pharisee was more respected than the tax collector. The idea that Jesus would be criticizing a Pharisee shows that He was not bound by the cultural standards of the day. We see that the Pharisee singled himself out as being holier than anyone else because of what he did. He didn’t maintain that his holiness was from God, but was rather a result of his disciplined practices. The tax collector realized the enormity of his sin, and knew that God would really have to love him if he could be loved at all. The tax collector shows us the most basic attitude toward God: Lord, have mercy on me! Mercy is at the center of God’s heart and is the deepest expression of God’s love. Mercy is love shown to us even when we don’t deserve it. We are God’s creatures, and on our own, we don’t deserve God’ love. Yet God loves us so much that He would literally die for us, even though we have been unfaithful to Him. Understanding and experiencing God’s mercy is the first step of the spiritual life, even more important than any religious practices we have. Many people today live their life thinking that their religious practice will save them. Religious practices, including going to Mass and saying our prayers, is essential, but we have to approach them with faith in Christ. Many parishes today struggle because people attend Mass just because they’ve always been Catholic, and they would feel guilty if they didn’t attend Mass on Sunday. Jesus wants us to attend Mass because we love Him and want to be with Him, not so we can punch-in our spiritual time clock. We are challenged with this Gospel to take our eyes off ourselves and focus solely on God’s great love for us. This Gospel reminds us that God’s love is stronger than anything we can ever experience, and if we place our trust in Him, and humble ourselves before Him, He will bless us greatly. May we have the grace to want God’s love more than anything else in our lives.
Reading 1 Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18
The LORD is a God of justice, who knows no favorites. Though not unduly partial toward the weak, yet he hears the cry of the oppressed. The Lord is not deaf to the wail of the orphan, nor to the widow when she pours out her complaint. The one who serves God willingly is heard; his petition reaches the heavens.
The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds; it does not rest till it reaches its goal, nor will it withdraw till the Most High responds, judges justly and affirms the right, and the Lord will not delay.
Reading 2 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18
Beloved: I am already being poured out like a libation, and the time of my departure is at hand.
I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the just judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me,
but to all who have longed for his appearance. At my first defense no one appeared on my behalf,
but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them! But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength,
so that through me the proclamation might be completed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was rescued from the lion's mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil threat and will bring me safe to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Gospel Luke 18:9-14
Jesus addressed this parable to those who were convinced of their own righteousness and despised everyone else. "Two people went up to the temple area to pray; one was a Pharisee and the other was a tax collector.
The Pharisee took up his position and spoke this prayer to himself, 'O God, I thank you that I am not like the rest of humanity -- greedy, dishonest, adulterous -- or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week, and I pay tithes on my whole income.’ But the tax collector stood off at a distance and would not even raise his eyes to heaven but beat his breast and prayed, 'O God, be merciful to me a sinner.' I tell you, the latter went home justified, not the former; for whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted."
Discussion Questions:
1. Jesus addressed this parable ‘to those who were convinced of their own righteousness’. How do you think they reacted once Jesus was finished?
2. What can you do in your life to keep your pride in check? How can you better humble yourself before God on a daily basis?
3. Share a time in your life when humbling yourself brought you a great blessing.
Summary of the Gospel from YM Central
Ever think that you have all the right answers and that you’ve got things down pat? Better think again. In this passage from St. Luke, Jesus addresses the sin of self-righteousness that is, thinking that we can, on our own power, be right before God. To illustrate this, Jesus pits a Pharisee, a religious leader of His day, against a tax collector, a person hated by many because he constantly took and stole money from the people. To the listener of Jesus’ time, there would be no question that the Pharisee was more respected than the tax collector. The idea that Jesus would be criticizing a Pharisee shows that He was not bound by the cultural standards of the day. We see that the Pharisee singled himself out as being holier than anyone else because of what he did. He didn’t maintain that his holiness was from God, but was rather a result of his disciplined practices. The tax collector realized the enormity of his sin, and knew that God would really have to love him if he could be loved at all. The tax collector shows us the most basic attitude toward God: Lord, have mercy on me! Mercy is at the center of God’s heart and is the deepest expression of God’s love. Mercy is love shown to us even when we don’t deserve it. We are God’s creatures, and on our own, we don’t deserve God’ love. Yet God loves us so much that He would literally die for us, even though we have been unfaithful to Him. Understanding and experiencing God’s mercy is the first step of the spiritual life, even more important than any religious practices we have. Many people today live their life thinking that their religious practice will save them. Religious practices, including going to Mass and saying our prayers, is essential, but we have to approach them with faith in Christ. Many parishes today struggle because people attend Mass just because they’ve always been Catholic, and they would feel guilty if they didn’t attend Mass on Sunday. Jesus wants us to attend Mass because we love Him and want to be with Him, not so we can punch-in our spiritual time clock. We are challenged with this Gospel to take our eyes off ourselves and focus solely on God’s great love for us. This Gospel reminds us that God’s love is stronger than anything we can ever experience, and if we place our trust in Him, and humble ourselves before Him, He will bless us greatly. May we have the grace to want God’s love more than anything else in our lives.
Reading 1 Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18
The LORD is a God of justice, who knows no favorites. Though not unduly partial toward the weak, yet he hears the cry of the oppressed. The Lord is not deaf to the wail of the orphan, nor to the widow when she pours out her complaint. The one who serves God willingly is heard; his petition reaches the heavens.
The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds; it does not rest till it reaches its goal, nor will it withdraw till the Most High responds, judges justly and affirms the right, and the Lord will not delay.
Reading 2 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18
Beloved: I am already being poured out like a libation, and the time of my departure is at hand.
I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me, which the Lord, the just judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me,
but to all who have longed for his appearance. At my first defense no one appeared on my behalf,
but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them! But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength,
so that through me the proclamation might be completed and all the Gentiles might hear it. And I was rescued from the lion's mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil threat and will bring me safe to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Gospel Luke 18:9-14
Jesus addressed this parable to those who were convinced of their own righteousness and despised everyone else. "Two people went up to the temple area to pray; one was a Pharisee and the other was a tax collector.
The Pharisee took up his position and spoke this prayer to himself, 'O God, I thank you that I am not like the rest of humanity -- greedy, dishonest, adulterous -- or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week, and I pay tithes on my whole income.’ But the tax collector stood off at a distance and would not even raise his eyes to heaven but beat his breast and prayed, 'O God, be merciful to me a sinner.' I tell you, the latter went home justified, not the former; for whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted."
Discussion Questions:
1. Jesus addressed this parable ‘to those who were convinced of their own righteousness’. How do you think they reacted once Jesus was finished?
2. What can you do in your life to keep your pride in check? How can you better humble yourself before God on a daily basis?
3. Share a time in your life when humbling yourself brought you a great blessing.
Readings for Sunday October 17, 2010
Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Summary of the Gospel from YM Central
You’ve heard the expression, ‘when the going gets tough, the tough get going’. Would this describe your faith in Christ? Our Gospel this Sunday is a challenge to be consistent and determined in our relationship with Jesus. Jesus uses the parable of the dishonest judge to show us the importance of having persistent faith and prayer. The judge is called ‘dishonest’ because he fears neither God nor man – He is not motivated by justice, but by his personal convenience. In one of his cases, he is faced with an unrelenting and (to him an) annoying widow who wants the judge to deliver a decision in her favor. Her nagging drives the judge to the point of giving her the favor of the verdict - all so he doesn’t have to deal with her anymore. Jesus makes the point that if a dishonest judge will listen to persistent arguments, God will listen to our constant prayers to
Him. Many times we want to fall away from our faith when the going gets tough, yet God desires us to love Him above all things at all times. God always hears us, He knows our deepest desires and sufferings, and He longs to heal us and bring good to our lives. What makes it difficult for us is that we expect God to be like our local ‘Burger King’: We want to have it our way, and we want it now. This assumes that we know what is best for ourselves, which is rarely the case. God knows what is best for us and always gives us what we need, not just to survive today, but ultimately He gives us the grace, day in and day out, to get to heaven when we die. We are often focused on the little picture (what do I need to get done today?), while God is focused on both the little and big (what do I need to do so I can get to heaven when I die?) pictures. Our life is a test, an opportunity to love God even though we can’t clearly see Him. This is how our love for Him is tested. Will we be so committed to Him that, even though we don’t see Him clearly, we will love Him more than anything else? The challenge that Jesus leaves us in this Gospel reading is to always be ready, to always have faith that He is in control. He will give us what we need when we need it, no matter how bad life gets – let us have the grace to never forget to ask Him for His blessings.
Reading 1 Ex 17:8-13
In those days, Amalek came and waged war against Israel. Moses, therefore, said to Joshua, "Pick out certain men, and tomorrow go out and engage Amalek in battle. I will be standing on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hand." So Joshua did as Moses told him: he engaged Amalek in battle after Moses had climbed to the top of the hill with Aaron and Hur. As long as Moses kept his hands raised up, Israel had the better of the fight, but when he let his hands rest, Amalek had the better of the fight. Moses’hands, however, grew tired;
so they put a rock in place for him to sit on. Meanwhile Aaron and Hur supported his hands, one on one side and one on the other, so that his hands remained steady till sunset. And Joshua mowed down Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.
Reading 2 2 Timothy 3:14-4:2
Beloved: Remain faithful to what you have learned and believed, because you know from whom you learned it, and that from infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures, which are capable of giving you wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for refutation, for correction,
and for training in righteousness, so that one who belongs to God may be competent, equipped for every good work. I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead,
and by his appearing and his kingly power: proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient; convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching.
Gospel Luke 18:1-8
Jesus told his disciples a parable about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary. He said, "There was a judge in a certain town who neither feared God nor respected any human being. And a widow in that town used to come to him and say, 'Render a just decision for me against my adversary.'
For a long time the judge was unwilling, but eventually he thought, 'While it is true that I neither fear God nor respect any human being, because this widow keeps bothering me I shall deliver a just decision for her
lest she finally come and strike me.'" The Lord said, "Pay attention to what the dishonest judge says. Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night? Will he be slow to answer them? I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily. But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?"
Discussion Questions
1. Describe the persistence of the widow in as much detail as possible. What do you think the judge was thinking about her, and why would her pressure have made him give in to her demands? Why would he even care about her enough to take her pressure seriously?
2. Was Jesus wrong or lying when, at the end of the Gospel, He used the word ‘speedily’? Doesn’t it seem, at times, like God answers our prayers and requests too slowly? Give an example from your life when you thought God acted too slowly? What do you think Jesus meant by using the word ‘speedily’?
3. What’s your common reaction when the going gets tough? Do you dig your heals in for the long haul, or do you leave the situation and do something else? Describe a situation that shows this? In the future, how can you be more steadfast with God?
Summary of the Gospel from YM Central
You’ve heard the expression, ‘when the going gets tough, the tough get going’. Would this describe your faith in Christ? Our Gospel this Sunday is a challenge to be consistent and determined in our relationship with Jesus. Jesus uses the parable of the dishonest judge to show us the importance of having persistent faith and prayer. The judge is called ‘dishonest’ because he fears neither God nor man – He is not motivated by justice, but by his personal convenience. In one of his cases, he is faced with an unrelenting and (to him an) annoying widow who wants the judge to deliver a decision in her favor. Her nagging drives the judge to the point of giving her the favor of the verdict - all so he doesn’t have to deal with her anymore. Jesus makes the point that if a dishonest judge will listen to persistent arguments, God will listen to our constant prayers to
Him. Many times we want to fall away from our faith when the going gets tough, yet God desires us to love Him above all things at all times. God always hears us, He knows our deepest desires and sufferings, and He longs to heal us and bring good to our lives. What makes it difficult for us is that we expect God to be like our local ‘Burger King’: We want to have it our way, and we want it now. This assumes that we know what is best for ourselves, which is rarely the case. God knows what is best for us and always gives us what we need, not just to survive today, but ultimately He gives us the grace, day in and day out, to get to heaven when we die. We are often focused on the little picture (what do I need to get done today?), while God is focused on both the little and big (what do I need to do so I can get to heaven when I die?) pictures. Our life is a test, an opportunity to love God even though we can’t clearly see Him. This is how our love for Him is tested. Will we be so committed to Him that, even though we don’t see Him clearly, we will love Him more than anything else? The challenge that Jesus leaves us in this Gospel reading is to always be ready, to always have faith that He is in control. He will give us what we need when we need it, no matter how bad life gets – let us have the grace to never forget to ask Him for His blessings.
Reading 1 Ex 17:8-13
In those days, Amalek came and waged war against Israel. Moses, therefore, said to Joshua, "Pick out certain men, and tomorrow go out and engage Amalek in battle. I will be standing on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hand." So Joshua did as Moses told him: he engaged Amalek in battle after Moses had climbed to the top of the hill with Aaron and Hur. As long as Moses kept his hands raised up, Israel had the better of the fight, but when he let his hands rest, Amalek had the better of the fight. Moses’hands, however, grew tired;
so they put a rock in place for him to sit on. Meanwhile Aaron and Hur supported his hands, one on one side and one on the other, so that his hands remained steady till sunset. And Joshua mowed down Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.
Reading 2 2 Timothy 3:14-4:2
Beloved: Remain faithful to what you have learned and believed, because you know from whom you learned it, and that from infancy you have known the sacred Scriptures, which are capable of giving you wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for refutation, for correction,
and for training in righteousness, so that one who belongs to God may be competent, equipped for every good work. I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead,
and by his appearing and his kingly power: proclaim the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient; convince, reprimand, encourage through all patience and teaching.
Gospel Luke 18:1-8
Jesus told his disciples a parable about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary. He said, "There was a judge in a certain town who neither feared God nor respected any human being. And a widow in that town used to come to him and say, 'Render a just decision for me against my adversary.'
For a long time the judge was unwilling, but eventually he thought, 'While it is true that I neither fear God nor respect any human being, because this widow keeps bothering me I shall deliver a just decision for her
lest she finally come and strike me.'" The Lord said, "Pay attention to what the dishonest judge says. Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night? Will he be slow to answer them? I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily. But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?"
Discussion Questions
1. Describe the persistence of the widow in as much detail as possible. What do you think the judge was thinking about her, and why would her pressure have made him give in to her demands? Why would he even care about her enough to take her pressure seriously?
2. Was Jesus wrong or lying when, at the end of the Gospel, He used the word ‘speedily’? Doesn’t it seem, at times, like God answers our prayers and requests too slowly? Give an example from your life when you thought God acted too slowly? What do you think Jesus meant by using the word ‘speedily’?
3. What’s your common reaction when the going gets tough? Do you dig your heals in for the long haul, or do you leave the situation and do something else? Describe a situation that shows this? In the future, how can you be more steadfast with God?
Saturday, October 9, 2010
“Stand up and go; your faith has saved you.” (Luke 17:19)
Readings for Sunday October 10th 2010
What an exciting statement! Out of the ten who first asked Jesus for healing, this fellow was the only one whom Jesus praised. What was it that set him apart? Let’s look at the way he overcame three barriers, all of which can speak to us today.
The first barrier was physical: his illness of leprosy, which was considered to be highly contagious. The second barrier was cultural: He was a Samaritan, whom the Jews looked down upon as unworthy of God’s favor. And the third barrier was spiritual: the temptation to take his healing and run with it, without coming back to thank Jesus for performing such a miracle in his life.
Just as this fellow’s leprosy caused a barrier between himself and his family, so too does sin prevent us from being brothers and sisters. Sin creates barriers and division. It isolates us and makes us focus on ourselves and not on the needs and the love of those around us.
Culturally, this man saw that Jesus’ message and his power were meant for everyone, not just Jesus’ kinsfolk, the Jews. Just as Jews looked down on Samaritans, so too did many Samaritans consider their Jewish neighbors to be inferior to them. But this fellow was so moved by his healing that he came back and humbly thanked and praised Jesus for this miracle. Similarly, when we are healed by God’s grace, our prejudices against other people begin to melt away.
You can almost hear Jesus saying: “How can this Samaritan fellow, this foreigner with the strange accent and the unorthodox spirituality, be the only one who came back to me? Why didn’t they all come?” Jesus asks us the same question: “Will you come to me, or have you forgotten me? Will you let me help you overcome your barriers?”
“Lord, wipe away every sin and tear down every barrier. Unite us all in you. Let nothing divide us. We will never forget what you have done for us.”
The Word among Us
Reading 1 2 Kings 5:14-17
Naaman went down and plunged into the Jordan seven times at the word of Elisha, the man of God. His flesh became again like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean of his leprosy. Naaman returned with his whole retinue to the man of God. On his arrival he stood before Elisha and said, "Now I know that there is no God in all the earth, except in Israel. Please accept a gift from your servant."
Elisha replied, "As the LORD lives whom I serve, I will not take it;" and despite Naaman's urging, he still refused. Naaman said: "If you will not accept, please let me, your servant, have two mule-loads of earth, for I will no longer offer holocaust or sacrifice to any other god except to the LORD."
Question for Reflection
In this reading, Naaman, an army commander from Aram, is healed through the prophet Elisha. Why do you believe his healing caused Naaman to turn from false gods to the true God and Lord? Do you believe that God still heals today? Why or why not? Share any times you were healed by God or witnessed God’s healing. What impact did it have on you?
Reading 2 2 Timothy 2:8-13
Beloved: Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David: such is my gospel, for which I am suffering, even to the point of chains, like a criminal. But the word of God is not chained. Therefore, I bear with everything for the sake of those who are chosen, so that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, together with eternal glory. This saying is trustworthy: If we have died with him we shall also live with him; if we persevere we shall also reign with him. But if we deny him he will deny us. If we are unfaithful he remains faithful, for he cannot deny himself.
Question for Reflection
In the second reading, we hear these words: “But if we deny him he will deny us. If we are unfaithful he remains faithful, for he cannot deny himself” (2 Timothy 2:12-13). What do you think these words mean? How do they apply to you personally?
Gospel Luke17:11-19
As Jesus continued his journey to Jerusalem, he traveled through Samaria and Galilee. As he was entering a village, ten lepers met him. They stood at a distance from him and raised their voices, saying, "Jesus, Master! Have pity on us!" And when he saw them, he said, "Go show yourselves to the priests." As they were going they were cleansed. And one of them, realizing he had been healed, returned, glorifying God in a loud voice; and he fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him. He was a Samaritan. Jesus said in reply, "Ten were cleansed, were they not? Where are the other nine? Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?" Then he said to him, "Stand up and go; your faith has saved you."
Question for Reflection
In the Gospel, why do you believe only one of the ten lepers who were healed glorified God and came back to praise and thank Jesus? How often do you spend time in prayer praising and thanking God for the many blessings you have received from him? Why not take some time now to do this, especially for saving you from sin and eternal separation from God.
The meditation ends with these words: “Jesus asks us the same question: ‘Will you come to me, or have you forgotten me?’” How would you answer this question?
What an exciting statement! Out of the ten who first asked Jesus for healing, this fellow was the only one whom Jesus praised. What was it that set him apart? Let’s look at the way he overcame three barriers, all of which can speak to us today.
The first barrier was physical: his illness of leprosy, which was considered to be highly contagious. The second barrier was cultural: He was a Samaritan, whom the Jews looked down upon as unworthy of God’s favor. And the third barrier was spiritual: the temptation to take his healing and run with it, without coming back to thank Jesus for performing such a miracle in his life.
Just as this fellow’s leprosy caused a barrier between himself and his family, so too does sin prevent us from being brothers and sisters. Sin creates barriers and division. It isolates us and makes us focus on ourselves and not on the needs and the love of those around us.
Culturally, this man saw that Jesus’ message and his power were meant for everyone, not just Jesus’ kinsfolk, the Jews. Just as Jews looked down on Samaritans, so too did many Samaritans consider their Jewish neighbors to be inferior to them. But this fellow was so moved by his healing that he came back and humbly thanked and praised Jesus for this miracle. Similarly, when we are healed by God’s grace, our prejudices against other people begin to melt away.
You can almost hear Jesus saying: “How can this Samaritan fellow, this foreigner with the strange accent and the unorthodox spirituality, be the only one who came back to me? Why didn’t they all come?” Jesus asks us the same question: “Will you come to me, or have you forgotten me? Will you let me help you overcome your barriers?”
“Lord, wipe away every sin and tear down every barrier. Unite us all in you. Let nothing divide us. We will never forget what you have done for us.”
The Word among Us
Reading 1 2 Kings 5:14-17
Naaman went down and plunged into the Jordan seven times at the word of Elisha, the man of God. His flesh became again like the flesh of a little child, and he was clean of his leprosy. Naaman returned with his whole retinue to the man of God. On his arrival he stood before Elisha and said, "Now I know that there is no God in all the earth, except in Israel. Please accept a gift from your servant."
Elisha replied, "As the LORD lives whom I serve, I will not take it;" and despite Naaman's urging, he still refused. Naaman said: "If you will not accept, please let me, your servant, have two mule-loads of earth, for I will no longer offer holocaust or sacrifice to any other god except to the LORD."
Question for Reflection
In this reading, Naaman, an army commander from Aram, is healed through the prophet Elisha. Why do you believe his healing caused Naaman to turn from false gods to the true God and Lord? Do you believe that God still heals today? Why or why not? Share any times you were healed by God or witnessed God’s healing. What impact did it have on you?
Reading 2 2 Timothy 2:8-13
Beloved: Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David: such is my gospel, for which I am suffering, even to the point of chains, like a criminal. But the word of God is not chained. Therefore, I bear with everything for the sake of those who are chosen, so that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, together with eternal glory. This saying is trustworthy: If we have died with him we shall also live with him; if we persevere we shall also reign with him. But if we deny him he will deny us. If we are unfaithful he remains faithful, for he cannot deny himself.
Question for Reflection
In the second reading, we hear these words: “But if we deny him he will deny us. If we are unfaithful he remains faithful, for he cannot deny himself” (2 Timothy 2:12-13). What do you think these words mean? How do they apply to you personally?
Gospel Luke17:11-19
As Jesus continued his journey to Jerusalem, he traveled through Samaria and Galilee. As he was entering a village, ten lepers met him. They stood at a distance from him and raised their voices, saying, "Jesus, Master! Have pity on us!" And when he saw them, he said, "Go show yourselves to the priests." As they were going they were cleansed. And one of them, realizing he had been healed, returned, glorifying God in a loud voice; and he fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him. He was a Samaritan. Jesus said in reply, "Ten were cleansed, were they not? Where are the other nine? Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?" Then he said to him, "Stand up and go; your faith has saved you."
Question for Reflection
In the Gospel, why do you believe only one of the ten lepers who were healed glorified God and came back to praise and thank Jesus? How often do you spend time in prayer praising and thanking God for the many blessings you have received from him? Why not take some time now to do this, especially for saving you from sin and eternal separation from God.
The meditation ends with these words: “Jesus asks us the same question: ‘Will you come to me, or have you forgotten me?’” How would you answer this question?
Friday, October 1, 2010
Readings for Sunday October 3, 2010
Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
God’s in Charge . . . . You’re Free!
It’s very predictable. When you talk with a group of high school students and ask, who would like more freedom from parents? Most hands shoot up.
It’s normal for teens to thirst for freedom, just like its normal for parents to get nervous about granting it. But this week’s Gospel is all about freedom- the freedom that comes when you realize that Gods in charge and you’re not.
Our culture is very competitive. Who will get the best grades? Who will win the game? Who will look the best? It’s easy for life to become nothing but one long final exam where success means everything. And that’s when life becomes pretty meaningless. Jesus offers us so much by reminding us that we’re God’s servants. But how’s that better? After all, who wants to be a servant when they grow up? It’s better because it frees us. God’s in charge. We can’t solve the world’s problems. That’s God’s job. So don’t worry about being a successful Christian. God ask you only to faithfully do what you can, remembering that God’s love doesn’t depend on your success.
We’re free. We’re free to take risk for our faith because we don’t need to worry about success. Many of the teens we know can inspire us by their willingness. “What have I got to lose?” as they sign up for different mission trips and other service projects. And the more you risk things for God, the Master, the more you’ll get what the Apostles wanted in this week’s Gospel: more faith.
What a gift God has given us by taking charge. In a world where you might feel responsible for so much, enjoy the freedom that comes from being God’s servant.
Fr Corey Brost
Reading 1 Habakkuk 1:2-3; 2:2-4
2 How long, O LORD? I cry for help but you do not listen! I cry out to you, "Violence!" but you do not intervene. 3 Why do you let me see ruin; why must I look at misery? Destruction and violence are before me;
there is strife, and clamorous discord. 2:2 Then the LORD answered me and said: Write down the vision clearly upon the tablets, so that one can read it readily. 3 For the vision still has its time, presses on to fulfillment, and will not disappoint; if it delays, wait for it, it will surely come, it will not be late. 4 The rash one has no integrity; but the just one, because of his faith, shall live.
Reading 2 2 Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14
6 Beloved: I remind you, to stir into flame the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands.
7 For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control. 8 So do not be ashamed of your testimony to our Lord, nor of me, a prisoner for his sake; but bear your share of hardship for the gospel with the strength that comes from God.
13 Take as your norm the sound words that you heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
14 Guard this rich trust with the help of the Holy Spirit that dwells within us.
Gospel Luke 17:5-10
5 The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith." 6 The Lord replied, "If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you would say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you. 7 "Who among you would say to your servant who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field, 'Come here immediately and take your place at table'? 8 Would he not rather say to him,
'Prepare something for me to eat. Put on your apron and wait on me while I eat and drink. You may eat and drink when I am finished'? 9 Is he grateful to that servant because he did what was commanded?
10 So should it be with you. When you have done all you have been commanded, say, 'We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we were obliged to do.'"
Does your fear of failure ever stop you from taking risk for your faith?
God’s in Charge . . . . You’re Free!
It’s very predictable. When you talk with a group of high school students and ask, who would like more freedom from parents? Most hands shoot up.
It’s normal for teens to thirst for freedom, just like its normal for parents to get nervous about granting it. But this week’s Gospel is all about freedom- the freedom that comes when you realize that Gods in charge and you’re not.
Our culture is very competitive. Who will get the best grades? Who will win the game? Who will look the best? It’s easy for life to become nothing but one long final exam where success means everything. And that’s when life becomes pretty meaningless. Jesus offers us so much by reminding us that we’re God’s servants. But how’s that better? After all, who wants to be a servant when they grow up? It’s better because it frees us. God’s in charge. We can’t solve the world’s problems. That’s God’s job. So don’t worry about being a successful Christian. God ask you only to faithfully do what you can, remembering that God’s love doesn’t depend on your success.
We’re free. We’re free to take risk for our faith because we don’t need to worry about success. Many of the teens we know can inspire us by their willingness. “What have I got to lose?” as they sign up for different mission trips and other service projects. And the more you risk things for God, the Master, the more you’ll get what the Apostles wanted in this week’s Gospel: more faith.
What a gift God has given us by taking charge. In a world where you might feel responsible for so much, enjoy the freedom that comes from being God’s servant.
Fr Corey Brost
Reading 1 Habakkuk 1:2-3; 2:2-4
2 How long, O LORD? I cry for help but you do not listen! I cry out to you, "Violence!" but you do not intervene. 3 Why do you let me see ruin; why must I look at misery? Destruction and violence are before me;
there is strife, and clamorous discord. 2:2 Then the LORD answered me and said: Write down the vision clearly upon the tablets, so that one can read it readily. 3 For the vision still has its time, presses on to fulfillment, and will not disappoint; if it delays, wait for it, it will surely come, it will not be late. 4 The rash one has no integrity; but the just one, because of his faith, shall live.
Reading 2 2 Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14
6 Beloved: I remind you, to stir into flame the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands.
7 For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control. 8 So do not be ashamed of your testimony to our Lord, nor of me, a prisoner for his sake; but bear your share of hardship for the gospel with the strength that comes from God.
13 Take as your norm the sound words that you heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
14 Guard this rich trust with the help of the Holy Spirit that dwells within us.
Gospel Luke 17:5-10
5 The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith." 6 The Lord replied, "If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you would say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you. 7 "Who among you would say to your servant who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field, 'Come here immediately and take your place at table'? 8 Would he not rather say to him,
'Prepare something for me to eat. Put on your apron and wait on me while I eat and drink. You may eat and drink when I am finished'? 9 Is he grateful to that servant because he did what was commanded?
10 So should it be with you. When you have done all you have been commanded, say, 'We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we were obliged to do.'"
Does your fear of failure ever stop you from taking risk for your faith?
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Readings for Sunday September 26th 2010
Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Have you ever noticed that this rich man never did anything wrong? He just went about his life. For whatever reason, he didn’t even notice Lazarus. Maybe he was just busy. Who knows?
And that, Jesus says, is the problem It’s not what the rich man did. It’s what he didn’t do.
Life gets busy, I know adults work very hard all day and then spend the evening driving their kids to activities. I know teens that go to school all day and then spend each evening on homework, sports, or school activities.
But Lazarus lives today. He is the lonely kid at school. He is the hungry child in Africa. Jesus challenges us to care for him regularly. Make it part of your “busyness,” not something you fit in when you find extra time.
In this parable, Jesus is addressing our hardness of heart. The call to us is to not close the door on Him, but to let Him in so He can transform our lives. What can we do? Ask God everyday to show you the people others ignore. God has given you the power to change the world for people who suffer like Lazarus. Who’s lying outside your door?
Reading 1 Amos 6:1a, 4-7
1a Thus says the LORD the God of hosts: Woe to the complacent in Zion! 4 Lying upon beds of ivory, stretched comfortably on their couches, they eat lambs taken from the flock, and calves from the stall!
5 Improvising to the music of the harp, like David, they devise their own accompaniment. 6 They drink wine from bowls and anoint themselves with the best oils; yet they are not made ill by the collapse of Joseph!
7 Therefore, now they shall be the first to go into exile, and their wanton revelry shall be done away with.
Reading II 1 Timothy 6:11-16
11 But you, man of God, pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness. 12 Compete well for the faith. Lay hold of eternal life, to which you were called when you made the noble confession in the presence of many witnesses. 13 I charge you before God, who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus, who gave testimony under Pontius Pilate for the noble confession, 14 to keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ 15 that the blessed and only ruler will make manifest at the proper time, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, and whom no human being has seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal power. Amen.
Gospel Luke 16:19-31
19 Jesus said to the Pharisees: "There was a rich man who dressed in purple garments and fine linen
and dined sumptuously each day. 20 And lying at his door was a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, 21 who would gladly have eaten his fill of the scraps that fell from the rich man's table. Dogs even used to come and lick his sores. 22 When the poor man died, he was carried away by angels to the bosom of Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and from the netherworld, where he was in torment, he raised his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. 24 And he cried out, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me. Send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am suffering torment in these flames.' 25 Abraham replied, 'My child, remember that you received what was good during your lifetime while Lazarus likewise received what was bad; but now he is comforted here, whereas you are tormented. 26 Moreover, between us and you a great chasm is established to prevent anyone from crossing who might wish to go from our side to yours or from your side to ours.’ 27 He said, 'Then I beg you, father, send him to my father's house, 28 for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them, lest they too come to this place of torment.' 29 But Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the prophets. Let them listen to them.' 30 He said, 'Oh no, father Abraham, but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent. 31 Then Abraham said, 'If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded if someone should rise from the dead.'"
Questions for discussion:
1. How do you think the Rich Man felt when Abraham told him that, “If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded if someone should rise from the dead”?
2. Why does God allow people to choose hell over heaven?
3. What would it take to motivate you to give your life more to Christ?
4. What’s one thing you can do this week to keep your focus on people like Lazarus?
Have you ever noticed that this rich man never did anything wrong? He just went about his life. For whatever reason, he didn’t even notice Lazarus. Maybe he was just busy. Who knows?
And that, Jesus says, is the problem It’s not what the rich man did. It’s what he didn’t do.
Life gets busy, I know adults work very hard all day and then spend the evening driving their kids to activities. I know teens that go to school all day and then spend each evening on homework, sports, or school activities.
But Lazarus lives today. He is the lonely kid at school. He is the hungry child in Africa. Jesus challenges us to care for him regularly. Make it part of your “busyness,” not something you fit in when you find extra time.
In this parable, Jesus is addressing our hardness of heart. The call to us is to not close the door on Him, but to let Him in so He can transform our lives. What can we do? Ask God everyday to show you the people others ignore. God has given you the power to change the world for people who suffer like Lazarus. Who’s lying outside your door?
Reading 1 Amos 6:1a, 4-7
1a Thus says the LORD the God of hosts: Woe to the complacent in Zion! 4 Lying upon beds of ivory, stretched comfortably on their couches, they eat lambs taken from the flock, and calves from the stall!
5 Improvising to the music of the harp, like David, they devise their own accompaniment. 6 They drink wine from bowls and anoint themselves with the best oils; yet they are not made ill by the collapse of Joseph!
7 Therefore, now they shall be the first to go into exile, and their wanton revelry shall be done away with.
Reading II 1 Timothy 6:11-16
11 But you, man of God, pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness. 12 Compete well for the faith. Lay hold of eternal life, to which you were called when you made the noble confession in the presence of many witnesses. 13 I charge you before God, who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus, who gave testimony under Pontius Pilate for the noble confession, 14 to keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ 15 that the blessed and only ruler will make manifest at the proper time, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, and whom no human being has seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal power. Amen.
Gospel Luke 16:19-31
19 Jesus said to the Pharisees: "There was a rich man who dressed in purple garments and fine linen
and dined sumptuously each day. 20 And lying at his door was a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, 21 who would gladly have eaten his fill of the scraps that fell from the rich man's table. Dogs even used to come and lick his sores. 22 When the poor man died, he was carried away by angels to the bosom of Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and from the netherworld, where he was in torment, he raised his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. 24 And he cried out, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me. Send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am suffering torment in these flames.' 25 Abraham replied, 'My child, remember that you received what was good during your lifetime while Lazarus likewise received what was bad; but now he is comforted here, whereas you are tormented. 26 Moreover, between us and you a great chasm is established to prevent anyone from crossing who might wish to go from our side to yours or from your side to ours.’ 27 He said, 'Then I beg you, father, send him to my father's house, 28 for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them, lest they too come to this place of torment.' 29 But Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the prophets. Let them listen to them.' 30 He said, 'Oh no, father Abraham, but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent. 31 Then Abraham said, 'If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded if someone should rise from the dead.'"
Questions for discussion:
1. How do you think the Rich Man felt when Abraham told him that, “If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded if someone should rise from the dead”?
2. Why does God allow people to choose hell over heaven?
3. What would it take to motivate you to give your life more to Christ?
4. What’s one thing you can do this week to keep your focus on people like Lazarus?
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Readings for Sunday September 19, 2010
Summary of the Gospel from YM Central
At first glance, it appears that Jesus is approving the accumulation of dishonest wealth, even by His followers. A closer look at the reading shows us that Jesus is teaching us to pursue our salvation intelligently, with the same diligence a person of the world would pursue their wealth. Jesus uses a financial metaphor to explain to us the purpose of being trustworthy with the gifts He has given us. The steward is accused of wasting the money of his master, and begins to panic when he thinks of being kicked out on the streets without a job. So what does he do? While he still has his job, he goes to all the people who owe his master money, and reduces their debt to him. Why does the steward do this? So the debtors will take care of him when he gets fired. Jesus shows us that the steward, even though he had wasted his master’s money and cut the debtors’ loans, was wise enough to take care of himself and act carefully with his own neck on the line. What if the steward had been dumb enough to dig himself so deep that he had no options? He’d be a beggar on the street. If the steward didn’t do ‘the little things’ (helping to reduce the debt of a few people), then he’d be homeless, without any friends. What does Jesus mean by ‘make friends with dishonest wealth’? First, Jesus is not calling us to live a life of crime. Second, He’s not saying that we should accumulate wealth in any way possible, even if that means we are dishonest. The best way to understand what Jesus means by ‘dishonest wealth’ is to compare it with what He calls ‘true’ wealth. True wealth, for Jesus, is the Kingdom of heaven. If we really want to have real wealth, we have to live for our heavenly reward. In contrast to this is ‘dishonest wealth’, the wealth of this world that, compared to the wealth of heaven, is dishonest because it lures us to making this world ‘heaven’. If we can’t manage the wealth of this world, if we get too attached to it or if we neglect it completely, then we will not be ready for the real wealth of the next world. We are called to be smart in both the matters of our daily lives and the matters of our salvation. Jesus is calling us to learn how to think on our feet, and to be smart about our own salvation. The ‘smartness’ we need to have about our own salvation is this: If we can take care of the small matters, living our Christianity in the small things of life, then we will be trusted to take care of the big matters. God wants to give us everything He has, but won’t just give it to us without preparing us for it. God’s method of teaching is to give us a little bit of Himself at a time, and once we have mastered it, He gives us a little bit more. So let’s examine our lives and what we need to do to live what God has already given us in a more faithful way.
Reading 1 Amos 8:4-7
4 Hear this, you who trample upon the needy and destroy the poor of the land! 5 "When will the new moon be over," you ask, "that we may sell our grain, and the Sabbath, that we may display the wheat? We will diminish the ephah, add to the shekel, and fix our scales for cheating! 6 We will buy the lowly for silver,and the poor for a pair of sandals; even the refuse of the wheat we will sell!" 7 The LORD has sworn by the pride of Jacob: Never will I forget a thing they have done!
Reading 2 1 Timothy 2:1-8
1 Beloved: First of all, I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, 2 for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. 3 This is good and pleasing to God our savior, 4 who wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God. There is also one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,6 who gave himself as ransom for all. This was the testimony at the proper time. 7 For this I was appointed preacher and apostle — I am speaking the truth, I am not lying —, teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8 It is my wish, then, that in every place the men should pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or argument.
Gospel Luke 16:1-13
1 Jesus said to his disciples, "A rich man had a steward who was reported to him for squandering his property. 2 He summoned him and said, 'What is this I hear about you? Prepare a full account of your stewardship, because you can no longer be my steward.' 3 The steward said to himself, 'What shall I do, now that my master is taking the position of steward away from me? I am not strong enough to dig and I am ashamed to beg. 4 I know what I shall do so that, when I am removed from the stewardship, they may welcome me into their homes.' 5 He called in his master's debtors one by one. To the first he said, 'How much do you owe my master?' 6 He replied, 'One hundred measures of olive oil.' He said to him, 'Here is your promissory note. Sit down and quickly write one for fifty.' 8 Then to another the steward said, 'And you, how much do you owe?' He replied, 'One hundred kors of wheat.' The steward said to him, 'Here is your promissory note; write one for eighty.' And the master commended that dishonest steward for acting prudently. "For the children of this world are more prudent in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light. 9 I tell you, make friends for yourselves with dishonest wealth, so that when it fails, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings. 10 The person who is trustworthy in very small matters is also trustworthy in great ones; and the person who is dishonest in very small matters is also dishonest in great ones. 11 If, therefore, you are not trustworthy with dishonest wealth, who will trust you with true wealth? 12 If you are not trustworthy with what belongs to another, who will give you what is yours? 13 No servant can serve two masters. He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and mammon."
Discussion Questions
1. Describe the ‘wisdom’ of the steward? Why do you think the master praised him when he heard what the steward had done?
2. Who, in your life, is an example of being wise? Why? Describe that person’s wisdom.
3. On a scale of 1-10, how well have you cultivated the gifts God has given you? What is God calling you to ‘master’ in your life right now? What makes it difficult for you to ‘master’ that part of your life?
At first glance, it appears that Jesus is approving the accumulation of dishonest wealth, even by His followers. A closer look at the reading shows us that Jesus is teaching us to pursue our salvation intelligently, with the same diligence a person of the world would pursue their wealth. Jesus uses a financial metaphor to explain to us the purpose of being trustworthy with the gifts He has given us. The steward is accused of wasting the money of his master, and begins to panic when he thinks of being kicked out on the streets without a job. So what does he do? While he still has his job, he goes to all the people who owe his master money, and reduces their debt to him. Why does the steward do this? So the debtors will take care of him when he gets fired. Jesus shows us that the steward, even though he had wasted his master’s money and cut the debtors’ loans, was wise enough to take care of himself and act carefully with his own neck on the line. What if the steward had been dumb enough to dig himself so deep that he had no options? He’d be a beggar on the street. If the steward didn’t do ‘the little things’ (helping to reduce the debt of a few people), then he’d be homeless, without any friends. What does Jesus mean by ‘make friends with dishonest wealth’? First, Jesus is not calling us to live a life of crime. Second, He’s not saying that we should accumulate wealth in any way possible, even if that means we are dishonest. The best way to understand what Jesus means by ‘dishonest wealth’ is to compare it with what He calls ‘true’ wealth. True wealth, for Jesus, is the Kingdom of heaven. If we really want to have real wealth, we have to live for our heavenly reward. In contrast to this is ‘dishonest wealth’, the wealth of this world that, compared to the wealth of heaven, is dishonest because it lures us to making this world ‘heaven’. If we can’t manage the wealth of this world, if we get too attached to it or if we neglect it completely, then we will not be ready for the real wealth of the next world. We are called to be smart in both the matters of our daily lives and the matters of our salvation. Jesus is calling us to learn how to think on our feet, and to be smart about our own salvation. The ‘smartness’ we need to have about our own salvation is this: If we can take care of the small matters, living our Christianity in the small things of life, then we will be trusted to take care of the big matters. God wants to give us everything He has, but won’t just give it to us without preparing us for it. God’s method of teaching is to give us a little bit of Himself at a time, and once we have mastered it, He gives us a little bit more. So let’s examine our lives and what we need to do to live what God has already given us in a more faithful way.
Reading 1 Amos 8:4-7
4 Hear this, you who trample upon the needy and destroy the poor of the land! 5 "When will the new moon be over," you ask, "that we may sell our grain, and the Sabbath, that we may display the wheat? We will diminish the ephah, add to the shekel, and fix our scales for cheating! 6 We will buy the lowly for silver,and the poor for a pair of sandals; even the refuse of the wheat we will sell!" 7 The LORD has sworn by the pride of Jacob: Never will I forget a thing they have done!
Reading 2 1 Timothy 2:1-8
1 Beloved: First of all, I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, 2 for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. 3 This is good and pleasing to God our savior, 4 who wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God. There is also one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,6 who gave himself as ransom for all. This was the testimony at the proper time. 7 For this I was appointed preacher and apostle — I am speaking the truth, I am not lying —, teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8 It is my wish, then, that in every place the men should pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or argument.
Gospel Luke 16:1-13
1 Jesus said to his disciples, "A rich man had a steward who was reported to him for squandering his property. 2 He summoned him and said, 'What is this I hear about you? Prepare a full account of your stewardship, because you can no longer be my steward.' 3 The steward said to himself, 'What shall I do, now that my master is taking the position of steward away from me? I am not strong enough to dig and I am ashamed to beg. 4 I know what I shall do so that, when I am removed from the stewardship, they may welcome me into their homes.' 5 He called in his master's debtors one by one. To the first he said, 'How much do you owe my master?' 6 He replied, 'One hundred measures of olive oil.' He said to him, 'Here is your promissory note. Sit down and quickly write one for fifty.' 8 Then to another the steward said, 'And you, how much do you owe?' He replied, 'One hundred kors of wheat.' The steward said to him, 'Here is your promissory note; write one for eighty.' And the master commended that dishonest steward for acting prudently. "For the children of this world are more prudent in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light. 9 I tell you, make friends for yourselves with dishonest wealth, so that when it fails, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings. 10 The person who is trustworthy in very small matters is also trustworthy in great ones; and the person who is dishonest in very small matters is also dishonest in great ones. 11 If, therefore, you are not trustworthy with dishonest wealth, who will trust you with true wealth? 12 If you are not trustworthy with what belongs to another, who will give you what is yours? 13 No servant can serve two masters. He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and mammon."
Discussion Questions
1. Describe the ‘wisdom’ of the steward? Why do you think the master praised him when he heard what the steward had done?
2. Who, in your life, is an example of being wise? Why? Describe that person’s wisdom.
3. On a scale of 1-10, how well have you cultivated the gifts God has given you? What is God calling you to ‘master’ in your life right now? What makes it difficult for you to ‘master’ that part of your life?
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)