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?
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)