FIRST READING
Amos 9:11-15
Thus says the LORD: On that day I will raise up the fallen hut of David; I will wall up its breaches, raise up its ruins, and rebuild it as in the days of old, That they may conquer what is left of Edom and all the nations that shall bear my name, say I, the LORD, who will do this. Yes, days are coming, says the LORD, When the plowman shall overtake the reaper, and the vintager, him who sows the seed; The juice of grapes shall drip down the mountains, and all the hills shall run with it. I will bring about the restoration of my people Israel; they shall rebuild and inhabit their ruined cities, Plant vineyards and drink the wine, set out gardens and eat the fruits. I will plant them upon their own ground; never again shall they be plucked From the land I have given them, say I, the LORD, your God.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 85:9ab and 10, 11-12, 13-14
R. (see 9b) The Lord speaks of peace to his people.
I will hear what God proclaims; the LORD–for he proclaims peace to his people. Near indeed is his salvation to those who fear him, glory dwelling in our land.
R. The Lord speaks of peace to his people.
Kindness and truth shall meet; justice and peace shall kiss. Truth shall spring out of the earth, and justice shall look down from heaven.
R. The Lord speaks of peace to his people.
The LORD himself will give his benefits; our land shall yield its increase. Justice shall walk before him, and salvation, along the way of his steps.
R. The Lord speaks of peace to his people.
ALLELUIA
John 10:27
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL
Matthew 9:14-17
The disciples of John approached Jesus and said, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast much, but your disciples do not fast?” Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast. No one patches an old cloak with a piece of unshrunken cloth, for its fullness pulls away from the cloak and the tear gets worse. People do not put new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise the skins burst, the wine spills out, and the skins are ruined. Rather, they pour new wine into fresh wineskins, and both are preserved.”
REFLECTIONS:
Which comes first, fasting or feasting? The disciples
of John the Baptist were upset with Jesus disciples because they did not
fast. Fasting was one of the three most important religious duties, along
with prayer and almsgiving. Jesus gave a simple explanation. Theres a
time for fasting and a time for feasting (or celebrating). To walk as a
disciple with Jesus is to experience a whole new joy of relationship akin
to the joy of the wedding party in celebrating with the groom and bride
their wedding bliss. But there also comes a time when the Lord's disciples
must bear the cross of affliction and purification. For the disciple there
is both a time for rejoicing in the Lord's presence and celebrating his
goodness and a time for seeking the Lord with humility and fasting and
for mourning over sin. Do you take joy in the Lords presence with
you and do you express sorrow and contrition for your sins?
Jesus goes on to warn his disciples about the problem of the closed
mind that refuses to learn new things. Jesus used an image familiar to
his audience new and old wineskins. In Jesus times, wine was stored
in wineskins, not bottles. New wine poured into skins was still fermenting.
The gases exerted gave pressure. New wine skins were elastic enough to
take the pressure, but old wine skins easily burst because they were hard.
What did Jesus mean by this comparison? Are we to reject the old in place
of the new? Just as there is a right place and a right time for fasting
and for feasting, so there is a right place for the old as well as the
new. Jesus says the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings
out of his treasure what is new and what is old (Matthew 13:52). How
impoverished we would be if we only had the Old Testament or the New Testament,
rather than both. The Lord gives us wisdom so we can make the best use
of both the old and the new. He doesn't want us to hold rigidly to the
past and to be resistant to the new work of his Holy Spirit in our lives.
He wants our minds and hearts to be like new wine skins open and ready
to receive the new wine of the Holy Spirit. Are you eager
to grow in the knowledge and understanding of Gods word and plan for your
life?
"Lord Jesus, fill me with your Holy Spirit, that I may grow in the knowledge
of your great love and truth. Help me to seek you earnestly in prayer and
fasting that I may turn away from sin and wilfulness and conform my life
more fully to your will. May I always find joy in knowing, loving, and
serving you.
07 July 2012
06 July 2012
06 July 2012, Friday of Week 13; St. Maria Goretti
FIRST READING
Amos 8:4-6, 9-12
Hear this, you who trample upon the needy and destroy the poor of the land! “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 containers for measuring, add to the weights, and fix our scales for cheating! We will buy the lowly man for silver, and the poor man for a pair of sandals; even the refuse of the wheat we will sell!”
On that day, says the Lord GOD, I will make the sun set at midday and cover the earth with darkness in broad daylight. I will turn your feasts into mourning and all your songs into lamentations. I will cover the loins of all with sackcloth and make every head bald. I will make them mourn as for an only son, and bring their day to a bitter end.
Yes, days are coming, says the Lord GOD, when I will send famine upon the land: Not a famine of bread, or thirst for water, but for hearing the word of the LORD. Then shall they wander from sea to sea and rove from the north to the east In search of the word of the LORD, but they shall not find it.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 119:2, 10, 20, 30, 40, 131
R. (Matthew 4:4) One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
Blessed are they who observe his decrees, who seek him with all their heart.
R. One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
With all my heart I seek you; let me not stray from your commands.
R. One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
My soul is consumed with longing for your ordinances at all times.
R. One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
The way of truth I have chosen; I have set your ordinances before me.
R. One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
Behold, I long for your precepts; in your justice give me life.
R. One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
I gasp with open mouth in my yearning for your commands.
R. One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
ALLELUIA
Matthew 11:28
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest, says the Lord.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL
Matthew 9:9-13
As Jesus passed by,
he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. He said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him. While he was at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat with Jesus and his disciples. The Pharisees saw this and said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” He heard this and said, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. Go and learn the meaning of the words,
I desire mercy, not sacrifice.
I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”
REFLECTIONS:
What is God's call on your life? Jesus chose Matthew
to be his follower and friend, not because Matthew was religious or learned,
popular or saintly. Matthew appeared to be none of those. He chose to live
a life of wealth and ease. His profession was probably the most corrupted
and despised by everyone because tax collectors made themselves wealthy
by over-charging and threatening people if they did not hand over their
money to them. What did Jesus see in Matthew that others did not see? When
the prophet Samuel came to the house of Jesse to anoint the future heir
to the throne of Israel, he bypassed all the first seven sons and chose
the last! "God looks at the heart and not at the appearance of a man" he
declared. David's heart was like a compass looking for true north it
pointed to God. Matthew's heart must have yearned for God, even though
he dare not show his face in a synagogue the Jewish house of prayer and
the study of Torah God's law. When Jesus saw Matthew sitting at his tax
office no doubt counting his day's profit Jesus spoke only two words
"follow me". Those two words changed Matthew from a self-serving profiteer
to a God-serving apostle who would bring the treasures of God's kingdom
to the poor and needy.
John Chrysostom, the great 5th century church father, describes Matthew's
calling: "Why did Jesus not call Matthew at the same time as he called
Peter and John and the rest? He came to each one at a particular time when
he knew that they would respond to him. He came at a different time to
call Matthew when he was assured that Matthew would surrender to his call.
Similarly, he called Paul at a different time when he was vulnerable, after
the resurrection, something like a hunter going after his quarry. for he
who is acquainted with our inmost hearts and knows the secrets of our minds
knows when each one of us is ready to respond fully. Therefore he did not
call them all together at the beginning, when Matthew was still in a hardened
condition. Rather, only after countless miracles, after his fame spread
abroad, did he call Matthew. He knew Matthew had been softened for full
responsiveness."
When the Pharisees challenged Jesus' unorthodox behavior in eating with
public sinners, Jesus defense was quite simple. A doctor doesnt need
to visit healthy people; instead he goes to those who are sick. Jesus likewise
sought out those in the greatest need. A true physician seeks healing of
the whole person body, mind, and spirit. Jesus came as the divine physician
and good shepherd to care for his people and to restore them to wholeness
of life. The orthodox were so preoccupied with their own practice of religion
that they neglected to help the very people who needed spiritual care.
Their religion was selfish because they didnt want to have anything to
do with people not like themselves. Jesus stated his mission in unequivocal
terms:
I came not to call the righteous, but to call sinners.
Ironically
the orthodox were as needy as those they despised. All have sinned and
fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).
On more than one occasion Jesus quoted the saying from the prophet Hosea: For
I desire mercy and not sacrifice (Hosea 6:6). Do you thank the Lord
for the great mercy he has shown to you? And do you show mercy to
your neighbor as well?
"Lord Jesus, our Savior, let us now come to you: Our hearts are cold;
Lord, warm them with your selfless love. Our hearts are sinful; cleanse
them with your precious blood. Our hearts are weak; strengthen them with
your joyous Spirit. Our hearts are empty; fill them with your divine presence.
Lord Jesus, our hearts are yours; possess them always and only for yourself.
(Prayer
of Augustine, 354-430)
Amos 8:4-6, 9-12
Hear this, you who trample upon the needy and destroy the poor of the land! “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 containers for measuring, add to the weights, and fix our scales for cheating! We will buy the lowly man for silver, and the poor man for a pair of sandals; even the refuse of the wheat we will sell!”
On that day, says the Lord GOD, I will make the sun set at midday and cover the earth with darkness in broad daylight. I will turn your feasts into mourning and all your songs into lamentations. I will cover the loins of all with sackcloth and make every head bald. I will make them mourn as for an only son, and bring their day to a bitter end.
Yes, days are coming, says the Lord GOD, when I will send famine upon the land: Not a famine of bread, or thirst for water, but for hearing the word of the LORD. Then shall they wander from sea to sea and rove from the north to the east In search of the word of the LORD, but they shall not find it.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 119:2, 10, 20, 30, 40, 131
R. (Matthew 4:4) One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
Blessed are they who observe his decrees, who seek him with all their heart.
R. One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
With all my heart I seek you; let me not stray from your commands.
R. One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
My soul is consumed with longing for your ordinances at all times.
R. One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
The way of truth I have chosen; I have set your ordinances before me.
R. One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
Behold, I long for your precepts; in your justice give me life.
R. One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
I gasp with open mouth in my yearning for your commands.
R. One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
ALLELUIA
Matthew 11:28
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest, says the Lord.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL
Matthew 9:9-13
As Jesus passed by,
he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. He said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him. While he was at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat with Jesus and his disciples. The Pharisees saw this and said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” He heard this and said, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. Go and learn the meaning of the words,
I desire mercy, not sacrifice.
I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”
REFLECTIONS:
What is God's call on your life? Jesus chose Matthew
to be his follower and friend, not because Matthew was religious or learned,
popular or saintly. Matthew appeared to be none of those. He chose to live
a life of wealth and ease. His profession was probably the most corrupted
and despised by everyone because tax collectors made themselves wealthy
by over-charging and threatening people if they did not hand over their
money to them. What did Jesus see in Matthew that others did not see? When
the prophet Samuel came to the house of Jesse to anoint the future heir
to the throne of Israel, he bypassed all the first seven sons and chose
the last! "God looks at the heart and not at the appearance of a man" he
declared. David's heart was like a compass looking for true north it
pointed to God. Matthew's heart must have yearned for God, even though
he dare not show his face in a synagogue the Jewish house of prayer and
the study of Torah God's law. When Jesus saw Matthew sitting at his tax
office no doubt counting his day's profit Jesus spoke only two words
"follow me". Those two words changed Matthew from a self-serving profiteer
to a God-serving apostle who would bring the treasures of God's kingdom
to the poor and needy.
John Chrysostom, the great 5th century church father, describes Matthew's
calling: "Why did Jesus not call Matthew at the same time as he called
Peter and John and the rest? He came to each one at a particular time when
he knew that they would respond to him. He came at a different time to
call Matthew when he was assured that Matthew would surrender to his call.
Similarly, he called Paul at a different time when he was vulnerable, after
the resurrection, something like a hunter going after his quarry. for he
who is acquainted with our inmost hearts and knows the secrets of our minds
knows when each one of us is ready to respond fully. Therefore he did not
call them all together at the beginning, when Matthew was still in a hardened
condition. Rather, only after countless miracles, after his fame spread
abroad, did he call Matthew. He knew Matthew had been softened for full
responsiveness."
When the Pharisees challenged Jesus' unorthodox behavior in eating with
public sinners, Jesus defense was quite simple. A doctor doesnt need
to visit healthy people; instead he goes to those who are sick. Jesus likewise
sought out those in the greatest need. A true physician seeks healing of
the whole person body, mind, and spirit. Jesus came as the divine physician
and good shepherd to care for his people and to restore them to wholeness
of life. The orthodox were so preoccupied with their own practice of religion
that they neglected to help the very people who needed spiritual care.
Their religion was selfish because they didnt want to have anything to
do with people not like themselves. Jesus stated his mission in unequivocal
terms:
I came not to call the righteous, but to call sinners.
Ironically
the orthodox were as needy as those they despised. All have sinned and
fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).
On more than one occasion Jesus quoted the saying from the prophet Hosea: For
I desire mercy and not sacrifice (Hosea 6:6). Do you thank the Lord
for the great mercy he has shown to you? And do you show mercy to
your neighbor as well?
"Lord Jesus, our Savior, let us now come to you: Our hearts are cold;
Lord, warm them with your selfless love. Our hearts are sinful; cleanse
them with your precious blood. Our hearts are weak; strengthen them with
your joyous Spirit. Our hearts are empty; fill them with your divine presence.
Lord Jesus, our hearts are yours; possess them always and only for yourself.
(Prayer
of Augustine, 354-430)
05 July 2012
05 July 2012, Thursday of Week 13; St. Anthony Mary Zaccaria
FIRST READING
Amos 7:10-17
Amaziah, the priest of Bethel, sent word to Jeroboam, king of Israel: “Amos has conspired against you here within Israel; the country cannot endure all his words. For this is what Amos says: Jeroboam shall die by the sword, and Israel shall surely be exiled from its land.”
To Amos, Amaziah said:
“Off with you, visionary, flee to the land of Judah! There earn your bread by prophesying, but never again prophesy in Bethel; for it is the king’s sanctuary and a royal temple.” Amos answered Amaziah, “I was no prophet, nor have I belonged to a company of prophets; I was a shepherd and a dresser of sycamores. The LORD took me from following the flock, and said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to my people Israel.’ Now hear the word of the LORD!”
You say: prophesy not against Israel, preach not against the house of Isaac. Now thus says the LORD: Your wife shall be made a harlot in the city, and your sons and daughters shall fall by the sword; Your land shall be divided by measuring line, and you yourself shall die in an unclean land; Israel shall be exiled far from its land.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11
R. (10cd) The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.
The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul; The decree of the LORD is trustworthy, giving wisdom to the simple.
R. The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The command of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eye.
R. The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.
The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever; The ordinances of the LORD are true, all of them just.
R. The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.
They are more precious than gold, than a heap of purest gold; Sweeter also than syrup or honey from the comb.
R. The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.
ALLELUIA
2 Corinthians 5:19
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL
Matthew 9:1-8
After entering a boat, Jesus made the crossing, and came into his own town. And there people brought to him a paralytic lying on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Courage, child, your sins are forgiven.” At that, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” Jesus knew what they were thinking, and said, :Why do you harbor evil thoughts? Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”– he then said to the paralytic, “Rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home.” He rose and went home. When the crowds saw this they were struck with awe and glorified God who had given such authority to men.
REFLECTIONS:
What cripples the mind and heart and stiffles the
healing power of love? Sin and unforgiveness for certain! Sin cripples
us more than any physical ailment can. Sin is the work of the kingdom of
darkness and it holds us in eternal bondage. There is only one solution
and that is the healing, cleansing power of Jesus' forgiveness. Jesus
treatment of sinners upset the religious teachers of the day. When a cripple
was brought to Jesus because of the faith of his friends, Jesus did the
unthinkable. He first forgave the man his sins. The scribes regarded this
as blasphemy because they understood that only God had authority to forgive
sins and to unbind a man or woman from their burden of guilt. Jesus claimed
an authority which only God could rightfully give. Jesus not only proved
that his authority came from God, he showed the great power of God's redeeming
love and mercy by healing the cripple of his physical ailment. This man
had been crippled not only physically, but spiritually as well. Jesus freed
him from his burden of guilt and restored his body as well.
The Lord is every ready to bring us healing of mind, body, and soul.
His grace brings us freedom from the power of sin and from bondage to harmful
desires and addictions. Do you allow anything to keep you from Jesus' healing
power?
"Lord Jesus, through your merciful love and forgiveness you bring healing
and restoration to body, mind, and soul. May your healing power and love
touch every area of my life my innermost thoughts, feelings, attitudes,
and memories. Pardon my offences and transform me in the power of your
Holy Spirit that I may walk confidently in your truth and goodness."
Amos 7:10-17
Amaziah, the priest of Bethel, sent word to Jeroboam, king of Israel: “Amos has conspired against you here within Israel; the country cannot endure all his words. For this is what Amos says: Jeroboam shall die by the sword, and Israel shall surely be exiled from its land.”
To Amos, Amaziah said:
“Off with you, visionary, flee to the land of Judah! There earn your bread by prophesying, but never again prophesy in Bethel; for it is the king’s sanctuary and a royal temple.” Amos answered Amaziah, “I was no prophet, nor have I belonged to a company of prophets; I was a shepherd and a dresser of sycamores. The LORD took me from following the flock, and said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to my people Israel.’ Now hear the word of the LORD!”
You say: prophesy not against Israel, preach not against the house of Isaac. Now thus says the LORD: Your wife shall be made a harlot in the city, and your sons and daughters shall fall by the sword; Your land shall be divided by measuring line, and you yourself shall die in an unclean land; Israel shall be exiled far from its land.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11
R. (10cd) The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.
The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul; The decree of the LORD is trustworthy, giving wisdom to the simple.
R. The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The command of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eye.
R. The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.
The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever; The ordinances of the LORD are true, all of them just.
R. The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.
They are more precious than gold, than a heap of purest gold; Sweeter also than syrup or honey from the comb.
R. The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.
ALLELUIA
2 Corinthians 5:19
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL
Matthew 9:1-8
After entering a boat, Jesus made the crossing, and came into his own town. And there people brought to him a paralytic lying on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Courage, child, your sins are forgiven.” At that, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” Jesus knew what they were thinking, and said, :Why do you harbor evil thoughts? Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”– he then said to the paralytic, “Rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home.” He rose and went home. When the crowds saw this they were struck with awe and glorified God who had given such authority to men.
REFLECTIONS:
What cripples the mind and heart and stiffles the
healing power of love? Sin and unforgiveness for certain! Sin cripples
us more than any physical ailment can. Sin is the work of the kingdom of
darkness and it holds us in eternal bondage. There is only one solution
and that is the healing, cleansing power of Jesus' forgiveness. Jesus
treatment of sinners upset the religious teachers of the day. When a cripple
was brought to Jesus because of the faith of his friends, Jesus did the
unthinkable. He first forgave the man his sins. The scribes regarded this
as blasphemy because they understood that only God had authority to forgive
sins and to unbind a man or woman from their burden of guilt. Jesus claimed
an authority which only God could rightfully give. Jesus not only proved
that his authority came from God, he showed the great power of God's redeeming
love and mercy by healing the cripple of his physical ailment. This man
had been crippled not only physically, but spiritually as well. Jesus freed
him from his burden of guilt and restored his body as well.
The Lord is every ready to bring us healing of mind, body, and soul.
His grace brings us freedom from the power of sin and from bondage to harmful
desires and addictions. Do you allow anything to keep you from Jesus' healing
power?
"Lord Jesus, through your merciful love and forgiveness you bring healing
and restoration to body, mind, and soul. May your healing power and love
touch every area of my life my innermost thoughts, feelings, attitudes,
and memories. Pardon my offences and transform me in the power of your
Holy Spirit that I may walk confidently in your truth and goodness."
04 July 2012
04 July 2012, Wednesday of Week 13; St. Elizabeth of Portugal
FIRST READING
Amos 5:14-15, 21-24
Seek good and not evil, that you may live; Then truly will the LORD, the God of hosts, be with you as you claim! Hate evil and love good, and let justice prevail at the gate; Then it may be that the LORD, the God of hosts, will have pity on the remnant of Joseph.
I hate, I spurn your feasts, says the LORD, I take no pleasure in your solemnities; Your cereal offerings I will not accept, nor consider your stall-fed peace offerings. Away with your noisy songs! I will not listen to the melodies of your harps. But if you would offer me burnt offerings, then let justice surge like water, and goodness like an unfailing stream.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 50:7, 8-9, 10-11, 12-13, 16bc-17
R. (23b) To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
“Hear, my people, and I will speak; Israel, I will testify against you; God, your God, am I.”
R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
“Not for your sacrifices do I rebuke you, for your burnt offerings are before me always. I take from your house no bullock, no goats out of your fold.”
R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
“For mine are all the animals of the forests, beasts by the thousand on my mountains. I know all the birds of the air, and whatever stirs in the plains, belongs to me.”
R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
“If I were hungry, I should not tell you, for mine are the world and its fullness. Do I eat the flesh of strong bulls, or is the blood of goats my drink?”
R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
“Why do you recite my statutes, and profess my covenant with your mouth, Though you hate discipline and cast my words behind you?”
R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
ALLELUIA
James 1:18
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
The Father willed to give us birth by the word of truth that we may be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL
Matthew 8:28-34
When Jesus came to the territory of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs who were coming from the tombs met him. They were so savage that no one could travel by that road. They cried out, “What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the appointed time?” Some distance away a herd of many swine was feeding. The demons pleaded with him, “If you drive us out, send us into the herd of swine.” And he said to them, “Go then!” They came out and entered the swine, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea where they drowned. The swineherds ran away, and when they came to the town they reported everything, including what had happened to the demoniacs. Thereupon the whole town came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him they begged him to leave their district.
REFLECTIONS:
Do you ever feel driven by forces beyond your strength?
Two men driven mad by the force of many evil spirits found refuge in the
one person who could set them free. Both Mark and Luke their gospel accounts
of this incident describe this force as a legion (Mark 5:9 and Luke 8:30).
A legion is no small force but an army 6,000 strong! For the people of
Palestine, hemmed in by occupied forces, a legion, whether spiritual or
human, struck terror! Legions at their wildest committed unmentionable
atrocities. Our age has also witnessed untold crimes and mass destruction
at the hands of possessed rulers and their armies. What is more remarkable
the destructive force of these driven and possessed men, or the bended
knee at Jesus' feet imploring mercy and release? God's word reminds
us that no destructive force can keep anyone from the peace and safety
which God offers to those who seek his help. A thousand may fall at
your side, ten thousand at your right hand; but it will not come near you.
..Because you have made the Lord your refuge, the Most High your habitation
(Psalm 91:7,9).
Jesus took pity on these men who were overtaken by a legion of evil
spirits. The destructive force of these demons is evident for all who can
see as they flee and destroy a herd of swine. After Jesus freed the demoniacs
the whole city came out to meet him. No one had demonstrated such power
and authority against the forces of Satan as Jesus did. They feared Jesus
as a result and begged him to leave them. Why would they not want Jesus
to stay? Perhaps the price for such liberation from the power of evil and
sin was more than they wanted to pay. Jesus is ready and willing to free
us from anything that binds us and that keeps us from the love of God.
Are you willing to part with anything that might keep you from his love
and saving grace?
"Lord Jesus, unbind me that I may love you wholly and walk in the freedom
of your way of love and holiness. May there be nothing which keeps me from
the joy of living in your presence."
Amos 5:14-15, 21-24
Seek good and not evil, that you may live; Then truly will the LORD, the God of hosts, be with you as you claim! Hate evil and love good, and let justice prevail at the gate; Then it may be that the LORD, the God of hosts, will have pity on the remnant of Joseph.
I hate, I spurn your feasts, says the LORD, I take no pleasure in your solemnities; Your cereal offerings I will not accept, nor consider your stall-fed peace offerings. Away with your noisy songs! I will not listen to the melodies of your harps. But if you would offer me burnt offerings, then let justice surge like water, and goodness like an unfailing stream.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 50:7, 8-9, 10-11, 12-13, 16bc-17
R. (23b) To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
“Hear, my people, and I will speak; Israel, I will testify against you; God, your God, am I.”
R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
“Not for your sacrifices do I rebuke you, for your burnt offerings are before me always. I take from your house no bullock, no goats out of your fold.”
R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
“For mine are all the animals of the forests, beasts by the thousand on my mountains. I know all the birds of the air, and whatever stirs in the plains, belongs to me.”
R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
“If I were hungry, I should not tell you, for mine are the world and its fullness. Do I eat the flesh of strong bulls, or is the blood of goats my drink?”
R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
“Why do you recite my statutes, and profess my covenant with your mouth, Though you hate discipline and cast my words behind you?”
R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
ALLELUIA
James 1:18
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
The Father willed to give us birth by the word of truth that we may be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL
Matthew 8:28-34
When Jesus came to the territory of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs who were coming from the tombs met him. They were so savage that no one could travel by that road. They cried out, “What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the appointed time?” Some distance away a herd of many swine was feeding. The demons pleaded with him, “If you drive us out, send us into the herd of swine.” And he said to them, “Go then!” They came out and entered the swine, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea where they drowned. The swineherds ran away, and when they came to the town they reported everything, including what had happened to the demoniacs. Thereupon the whole town came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him they begged him to leave their district.
REFLECTIONS:
Do you ever feel driven by forces beyond your strength?
Two men driven mad by the force of many evil spirits found refuge in the
one person who could set them free. Both Mark and Luke their gospel accounts
of this incident describe this force as a legion (Mark 5:9 and Luke 8:30).
A legion is no small force but an army 6,000 strong! For the people of
Palestine, hemmed in by occupied forces, a legion, whether spiritual or
human, struck terror! Legions at their wildest committed unmentionable
atrocities. Our age has also witnessed untold crimes and mass destruction
at the hands of possessed rulers and their armies. What is more remarkable
the destructive force of these driven and possessed men, or the bended
knee at Jesus' feet imploring mercy and release? God's word reminds
us that no destructive force can keep anyone from the peace and safety
which God offers to those who seek his help. A thousand may fall at
your side, ten thousand at your right hand; but it will not come near you.
..Because you have made the Lord your refuge, the Most High your habitation
(Psalm 91:7,9).
Jesus took pity on these men who were overtaken by a legion of evil
spirits. The destructive force of these demons is evident for all who can
see as they flee and destroy a herd of swine. After Jesus freed the demoniacs
the whole city came out to meet him. No one had demonstrated such power
and authority against the forces of Satan as Jesus did. They feared Jesus
as a result and begged him to leave them. Why would they not want Jesus
to stay? Perhaps the price for such liberation from the power of evil and
sin was more than they wanted to pay. Jesus is ready and willing to free
us from anything that binds us and that keeps us from the love of God.
Are you willing to part with anything that might keep you from his love
and saving grace?
"Lord Jesus, unbind me that I may love you wholly and walk in the freedom
of your way of love and holiness. May there be nothing which keeps me from
the joy of living in your presence."
03 July 2012
03 July 2012, Saint Thomas, Apostle - Feast; St. Thomas, Apostle
FIRST READING
Ephesians 2:19-22
Brothers and sisters:
You are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the holy ones and members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the Apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the capstone. Through him the whole structure is held together and grows into a temple sacred in the Lord; in him you also are being built together into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 117:1bc, 2
R. Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.
Praise the LORD, all you nations; glorify him, all you peoples!
R. Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.
For steadfast is his kindness for us, and the fidelity of the LORD endures forever.
R. Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.
ALLELUIA
John 20:29
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
You believe in me, Thomas, because you have seen me, says the Lord; blessed are those who have not seen, but still believe!
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL
John 20:24-29
Thomas, called Didymus, one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples said to him, “We have seen the Lord.” But Thomas said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nailmarks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” Now a week later his disciples were again inside and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, although the doors were locked, and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands, and bring your hand and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe.” Thomas answered and said to him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”
REFLECTIONS:
What can give us unshakeable hope and confidence
in the face of defeat and death? The apostles had abandoned Jesus in his
hour of trial when he was betrayed in the Garden of Gethsemani by Judas
and arrested by the Jewish authorities. Their fear turned to despair when
Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, sentenced Jesus to death by crucifixion
for his claim to be the King of the Jews. In that hour of darkness on "Good
Friday" the apostles saw Jesus' death as defeat rather than victory. On
Sunday morning when they heard the reports from the women who saw the empty
tomb, they were slow to believe that Jesus had risen as he prophesied to
them previously. Their despair turn to joy when the Risen Lord at last
appeared to them and showed them the scars of his victory his pierced
hands, feet, and side. Jesus had indeed triumphed over the enemies which
held the human race in slavery to sin, Satan, and death.
The last apostle to meet the resurrected Lord was the first to
go with him to Jerusalem at Passover time. The apostle Thomas was a natural
pessimist. When Jesus proposed that they visit Lazarus after receiving
news of his illness, Thomas said to the disciples: "Let us also go,
that we may die with him" (John 11:16). While Thomas deeply loved the
Lord, he lacked the courage to stand with Jesus in his passion and crucifixion.
After Jesus' death, Thomas made the mistake of withdrawing from the other
apostles. He sought loneliness rather than fellowship in his time of sorrow
and adversity. He doubted the women who saw the resurrected Jesus and he
doubted his own fellow apostles who also testified that Jesus had risen.
When Thomas finally had the courage to rejoin the other apostles eight
days later, the Lord Jesus made his presence known to him and reassured
him that he had indeed overcome death and risen again. When Thomas recognized
his Master, he believed and exclaimed that Jesus was truly Lord and truly
God!
Through the gift of faith we, too, are able to recognize the presence
of the risen Lord in our personal lives. The Holy Spirit reveals the Lord
Jesus to us and helps us to grow in knowledge and understanding of God
and his ways. Through the gift of faith we are able to proclaim that Jesus
is our personal Lord and our God. He died and rose that we, too, might
have new life in him. The Lord offers each of us new life in his Holy Spirit
that we may know him personally and walk in this new way of life through
the power of his resurrection. Do you believe in God's word and in the
power of the Holy Spirit?
"Lord Jesus Christ, through your victory over sin and death you have
overcome all the powers of darkness. Help me to draw near to you and to
trust in your life-giving word. Fill me with your Holy Spirit and strengthen
my faith in your promises and my hope in the power of your resurrection."
Ephesians 2:19-22
Brothers and sisters:
You are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the holy ones and members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the Apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the capstone. Through him the whole structure is held together and grows into a temple sacred in the Lord; in him you also are being built together into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 117:1bc, 2
R. Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.
Praise the LORD, all you nations; glorify him, all you peoples!
R. Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.
For steadfast is his kindness for us, and the fidelity of the LORD endures forever.
R. Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.
ALLELUIA
John 20:29
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
You believe in me, Thomas, because you have seen me, says the Lord; blessed are those who have not seen, but still believe!
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL
John 20:24-29
Thomas, called Didymus, one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples said to him, “We have seen the Lord.” But Thomas said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nailmarks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” Now a week later his disciples were again inside and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, although the doors were locked, and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands, and bring your hand and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe.” Thomas answered and said to him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”
REFLECTIONS:
What can give us unshakeable hope and confidence
in the face of defeat and death? The apostles had abandoned Jesus in his
hour of trial when he was betrayed in the Garden of Gethsemani by Judas
and arrested by the Jewish authorities. Their fear turned to despair when
Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, sentenced Jesus to death by crucifixion
for his claim to be the King of the Jews. In that hour of darkness on "Good
Friday" the apostles saw Jesus' death as defeat rather than victory. On
Sunday morning when they heard the reports from the women who saw the empty
tomb, they were slow to believe that Jesus had risen as he prophesied to
them previously. Their despair turn to joy when the Risen Lord at last
appeared to them and showed them the scars of his victory his pierced
hands, feet, and side. Jesus had indeed triumphed over the enemies which
held the human race in slavery to sin, Satan, and death.
The last apostle to meet the resurrected Lord was the first to
go with him to Jerusalem at Passover time. The apostle Thomas was a natural
pessimist. When Jesus proposed that they visit Lazarus after receiving
news of his illness, Thomas said to the disciples: "Let us also go,
that we may die with him" (John 11:16). While Thomas deeply loved the
Lord, he lacked the courage to stand with Jesus in his passion and crucifixion.
After Jesus' death, Thomas made the mistake of withdrawing from the other
apostles. He sought loneliness rather than fellowship in his time of sorrow
and adversity. He doubted the women who saw the resurrected Jesus and he
doubted his own fellow apostles who also testified that Jesus had risen.
When Thomas finally had the courage to rejoin the other apostles eight
days later, the Lord Jesus made his presence known to him and reassured
him that he had indeed overcome death and risen again. When Thomas recognized
his Master, he believed and exclaimed that Jesus was truly Lord and truly
God!
Through the gift of faith we, too, are able to recognize the presence
of the risen Lord in our personal lives. The Holy Spirit reveals the Lord
Jesus to us and helps us to grow in knowledge and understanding of God
and his ways. Through the gift of faith we are able to proclaim that Jesus
is our personal Lord and our God. He died and rose that we, too, might
have new life in him. The Lord offers each of us new life in his Holy Spirit
that we may know him personally and walk in this new way of life through
the power of his resurrection. Do you believe in God's word and in the
power of the Holy Spirit?
"Lord Jesus Christ, through your victory over sin and death you have
overcome all the powers of darkness. Help me to draw near to you and to
trust in your life-giving word. Fill me with your Holy Spirit and strengthen
my faith in your promises and my hope in the power of your resurrection."
02 July 2012
02 July 2012, Monday of Week 13; St. Oliver Plunket
FIRST READING
Amos 2:6-10, 13-16
Thus says the LORD:
For three crimes of Israel, and for four, I will not revoke my word; Because they sell the just man for silver, and the poor man for a pair of sandals. They trample the heads of the weak into the dust of the earth, and force the lowly out of the way. Son and father go to the same prostitute, profaning my holy name. Upon garments taken in pledge they recline beside any altar; And the wine of those who have been fined they drink in the house of their god.
Yet it was I who destroyed the Amorites before them, who were as tall as the cedars, and as strong as the oak trees. I destroyed their fruit above, and their roots beneath. It was I who brought you up from the land of Egypt, and who led you through the desert for forty years, to occupy the land of the Amorites.
Beware, I will crush you into the ground as a wagon crushes when laden with sheaves. Flight shall perish from the swift, and the strong man shall not retain his strength; The warrior shall not save his life, nor the bowman stand his ground; The swift of foot shall not escape, nor the horseman save his life. And the most stouthearted of warriors shall flee naked on that day, says the LORD.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 50:16bc-17, 18-19, 20-21, 22-23
R. (22a) Remember this, you who never think of God.
“Why do you recite my statutes, and profess my covenant with your mouth, Though you hate discipline and cast my words behind you?”
R. Remember this, you who never think of God.
“When you see a thief, you keep pace with him, and with adulterers you throw in your lot. To your mouth you give free rein for evil, you harness your tongue to deceit.”
R. Remember this, you who never think of God.
“You sit speaking against your brother; against your mother’s son you spread rumors. When you do these things, shall I be deaf to it? Or do you think that I am like yourself? I will correct you by drawing them up before your eyes.”
R. Remember this, you who never think of God.
“Consider this, you who forget God, lest I rend you and there be no one to rescue you. He that offers praise as a sacrifice glorifies me; and to him that goes the right way I will show the salvation of God.”
R. Remember this, you who never think of God.
ALLELUIA
Psalm 95:8
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL
Matthew 8:18-22
When Jesus saw a crowd around him, he gave orders to cross to the other shore. A scribe approached and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” Jesus answered him, “Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.” Another of his disciples said to him, “Lord, let me go first and bury my father.” But Jesus answered him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their dead.”
REFLECTIONS:
Have you ever been drafted for a special service
assignment away from home? Duty to country, kin, or church may call some
of us to leave our familiar surroundings in order to serve elsewhere. When
the Lord Jesus announced that the coming of God's kingdom was imminent,
he urged his listeners to not only heed his teaching but to follow in his
footsteps as well. Jesus had a mission to accomplish and he wanted disciples
who would join with him in proclaiming the coming of God's kingdom.
One prospective follower, a scribe who was an expert in the law of God,
paid Jesus the highest compliment he knew. He called Jesus teacher. Jesus
advised this would-be follower: Before you follow me, think what you
are doing and count the cost. A disciple must be willing to part with
anything that might stand in the way of following Jesus as Teacher and
Master. Another would-be disciple responded by saying that he must first
bury his father, that is go back home and take care of his father until
he died. This disciple was not yet ready to count the cost of following
Jesus. Jesus appealed to the mans heart to choose for God's kingdom first
and to detach himself from anything that might keep him from following
Christ.
The Lord Jesus calls each of us personally to follow him as our Lord,
Teacher, and Master. He invites us into a personal relationship of love
and friendship, trust and commitment. The love of God frees us from
attachments to other things so we can give ourselves freely to God for
his glory and for his kingdom. It was love that compelled the Lord Jesus
to lay down his life for us. And he calls us in love to give our all for
him.
What can keep us from giving our all to God? Fear, self-concern, pre-occupation
and attachment to other things. Even spiritual things can get in the way
of having God alone as our Treasure if we put them first. Detachment is
a necessary step if we want to make the Lord our Treasure and Joy. It frees
us to give ourselves without reserve to the Lord and to his service. There
is nothing greater we can do with our lives than to place them at the service
of the Lord and Master of the universe. We cannot outgive God in generosity.
Jesus promises that those who are willing to part with what is most dear
to them for his sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit
eternal life (Matthew 19:29). Is there anything holding you back from
giving your all to the Lord?
"Take, O Lord, and receive my entire liberty, my memory, my understanding,
and my whole will. All that I am and all that I possess you have given
me. I surrender it all to you to be disposed of according to your will.
Give me only your love and your grace with these I will be rich enough
and will desire nothing more. (Prayer of Ignatius Loyola,
1491-1556)
Amos 2:6-10, 13-16
Thus says the LORD:
For three crimes of Israel, and for four, I will not revoke my word; Because they sell the just man for silver, and the poor man for a pair of sandals. They trample the heads of the weak into the dust of the earth, and force the lowly out of the way. Son and father go to the same prostitute, profaning my holy name. Upon garments taken in pledge they recline beside any altar; And the wine of those who have been fined they drink in the house of their god.
Yet it was I who destroyed the Amorites before them, who were as tall as the cedars, and as strong as the oak trees. I destroyed their fruit above, and their roots beneath. It was I who brought you up from the land of Egypt, and who led you through the desert for forty years, to occupy the land of the Amorites.
Beware, I will crush you into the ground as a wagon crushes when laden with sheaves. Flight shall perish from the swift, and the strong man shall not retain his strength; The warrior shall not save his life, nor the bowman stand his ground; The swift of foot shall not escape, nor the horseman save his life. And the most stouthearted of warriors shall flee naked on that day, says the LORD.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 50:16bc-17, 18-19, 20-21, 22-23
R. (22a) Remember this, you who never think of God.
“Why do you recite my statutes, and profess my covenant with your mouth, Though you hate discipline and cast my words behind you?”
R. Remember this, you who never think of God.
“When you see a thief, you keep pace with him, and with adulterers you throw in your lot. To your mouth you give free rein for evil, you harness your tongue to deceit.”
R. Remember this, you who never think of God.
“You sit speaking against your brother; against your mother’s son you spread rumors. When you do these things, shall I be deaf to it? Or do you think that I am like yourself? I will correct you by drawing them up before your eyes.”
R. Remember this, you who never think of God.
“Consider this, you who forget God, lest I rend you and there be no one to rescue you. He that offers praise as a sacrifice glorifies me; and to him that goes the right way I will show the salvation of God.”
R. Remember this, you who never think of God.
ALLELUIA
Psalm 95:8
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL
Matthew 8:18-22
When Jesus saw a crowd around him, he gave orders to cross to the other shore. A scribe approached and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” Jesus answered him, “Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.” Another of his disciples said to him, “Lord, let me go first and bury my father.” But Jesus answered him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their dead.”
REFLECTIONS:
Have you ever been drafted for a special service
assignment away from home? Duty to country, kin, or church may call some
of us to leave our familiar surroundings in order to serve elsewhere. When
the Lord Jesus announced that the coming of God's kingdom was imminent,
he urged his listeners to not only heed his teaching but to follow in his
footsteps as well. Jesus had a mission to accomplish and he wanted disciples
who would join with him in proclaiming the coming of God's kingdom.
One prospective follower, a scribe who was an expert in the law of God,
paid Jesus the highest compliment he knew. He called Jesus teacher. Jesus
advised this would-be follower: Before you follow me, think what you
are doing and count the cost. A disciple must be willing to part with
anything that might stand in the way of following Jesus as Teacher and
Master. Another would-be disciple responded by saying that he must first
bury his father, that is go back home and take care of his father until
he died. This disciple was not yet ready to count the cost of following
Jesus. Jesus appealed to the mans heart to choose for God's kingdom first
and to detach himself from anything that might keep him from following
Christ.
The Lord Jesus calls each of us personally to follow him as our Lord,
Teacher, and Master. He invites us into a personal relationship of love
and friendship, trust and commitment. The love of God frees us from
attachments to other things so we can give ourselves freely to God for
his glory and for his kingdom. It was love that compelled the Lord Jesus
to lay down his life for us. And he calls us in love to give our all for
him.
What can keep us from giving our all to God? Fear, self-concern, pre-occupation
and attachment to other things. Even spiritual things can get in the way
of having God alone as our Treasure if we put them first. Detachment is
a necessary step if we want to make the Lord our Treasure and Joy. It frees
us to give ourselves without reserve to the Lord and to his service. There
is nothing greater we can do with our lives than to place them at the service
of the Lord and Master of the universe. We cannot outgive God in generosity.
Jesus promises that those who are willing to part with what is most dear
to them for his sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit
eternal life (Matthew 19:29). Is there anything holding you back from
giving your all to the Lord?
"Take, O Lord, and receive my entire liberty, my memory, my understanding,
and my whole will. All that I am and all that I possess you have given
me. I surrender it all to you to be disposed of according to your will.
Give me only your love and your grace with these I will be rich enough
and will desire nothing more. (Prayer of Ignatius Loyola,
1491-1556)
01 July 2012
01 July 2012, 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time; Blessed JunÃpero Serra
FIRST READING
Wisdom 1:13–15; 2:23–24
God did not make death, nor does he rejoice in the destruction of the living. For he fashioned all things that they might have being; and the creatures of the world are wholesome, and there is not a destructive drug among them nor any domain of the netherworld on earth, for justice is undying. For God formed man to be imperishable; the image of his own nature he made him. But by the envy of the devil, death entered the world, and they who belong to his company experience it.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 30:2, 4, 5–6, 11, 12, 13 (2a)
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
I will extol you, O LORD, for you drew me clear and did not let my enemies rejoice over me. O LORD, you brought me up from the netherworld; you preserved me from among those going down into the pit.
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
Sing praise to the LORD, you his faithful ones, and give thanks to his holy name. For his anger lasts but a moment; a lifetime, his good will. At nightfall, weeping enters in, but with the dawn, rejoicing.
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
Hear, O LORD, and have pity on me; O LORD, be my helper. You changed my mourning into dancing; O LORD, my God, forever will I give you thanks.
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
SECOND READING
2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13–15
Brothers and sisters:
As you excel in every respect, in faith, discourse, knowledge, all earnestness, and in the love we have for you, may you excel in this gracious act also.
For you know the gracious act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, for your sake he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich. Not that others should have relief while you are burdened, but that as a matter of equality your abundance at the present time should supply their needs, so that their abundance may also supply your needs, that there may be equality. As it is written: Whoever had much did not have more, and whoever had little did not have less.
ALLELUIA
see 2 Timothy 1:10
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Our Savior Jesus Christ destroyed death and brought life to light through the Gospel.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL
Longer Form Mark 5:21–43
When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a large crowd gathered around him, and he stayed close to the sea. One of the synagogue officials, named Jairus, came forward. Seeing him he fell at his feet and pleaded earnestly with him, saying, “My daughter is at the point of death. Please, come lay your hands on her that she may get well and live.” He went off with him, and a large crowd followed him and pressed upon him.
There was a woman afflicted with hemorrhages for twelve years. She had suffered greatly at the hands of many doctors and had spent all that she had. Yet she was not helped but only grew worse. She had heard about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak. She said, “If I but touch his clothes, I shall be cured.” Immediately her flow of blood dried up. She felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction. Jesus, aware at once that power had gone out from him, turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who has touched my clothes?” But his disciples said to Jesus, “You see how the crowd is pressing upon you, and yet you ask, ‘Who touched me?’” And he looked around to see who had done it. The woman, realizing what had happened to her, approached in fear and trembling. She fell down before Jesus and told him the whole truth. He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction.”
While he was still speaking, people from the synagogue official’s house arrived and said, “Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?” Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.” He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official, he caught sight of a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. So he went in and said to them, “Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep.” And they ridiculed him. Then he put them all out. He took along the child’s father and mother and those who were with him and entered the room where the child was. He took the child by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise!” The girl, a child of twelve, arose immediately and walked around. At that they were utterly astounded. He gave strict orders that no one should know this and said that she should be given something to eat.
or:
Shorter Form Mark 5:21–24, 35b–43
When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a large crowd gathered around him, and he stayed close to the sea. One of the synagogue officials, named Jairus, came forward. Seeing him he fell at his feet and pleaded earnestly with him, saying, “My daughter is at the point of death. Please, come lay your hands on her that she may get well and live.” He went off with him, and a large crowd followed him and pressed upon him.
While he was still speaking, people from the synagogue official’s house arrived and said, “Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?” Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.” He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official, he caught sight of a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. So he went in and said to them, “Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep.” And they ridiculed him. Then he put them all out. He took along the child’s father and mother and those who were with him and entered the room where the child was. He took the child by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise!” The girl, a child of twelve, arose immediately and walked around. At that they were utterly astounded. He gave strict orders that no one should know this and said that she should be given something to eat.
REFLECTIONS:
Do you approach the Lord Jesus with expectant faith or with skepticism and doubt? People in desperate or helpless circumstances were not disappointed when they sought Jesus out. What drew them to Jesus? Was it hope for a miracle or a word of comfort in their affliction? What did the elderly woman who had suffered greatly for twelve years expect Jesus to do for her? And what did a grieving father expect Jesus to do about his beloved lost daughter? Jesus gave hope where there seemed to be no human cause for it because his hope was directed to God. He spoke words of hope to the woman (Take heart, daughter!) to ignite the spark of faith in her (your faith has made you well!).
A 4th century church father, Ephrem the Syrian, comments on this miracle: “Glory to you, hidden Son of God, because your healing power is proclaimed through the hidden suffering of the afflicted woman. Through this woman whom they could see, the witnesses were enabled to behold the divinity that cannot be seen. Through the Son’s own healing power his divinity became known. Through the afflicted women’s being healed her faith was made manifest. She caused him to be proclaimed, and indeed was honored with him. For truth was being proclaimed together with its heralds. If she was a witness to his divinity, he in turn was a witness to her faith...He saw through to her hidden faith, and gave her a visible healing.”
Jesus also gave divine hope to a father who had just lost a beloved child. It took considerable courage and risk for the ruler of a synagogue to openly go to Jesus and to invite the scorn of his neighbors and kin. Even the hired mourners laughed at him in scorn. Their grief was devoid of any hope. Nonetheless, Jesus took the girl by the hand and delivered her from the grasp of death. Peter Chrysologus, a 5th century church father comments on this miracle:
“This man was a ruler of the synagogue, and versed in the law. He had surely read that while God created all other things by his word, man had been created by the hand of God. He trusted therefore in God that his daughter would be recreated, and restored to life by that same hand which, he knew, had created her...He who laid hands on her to form her from nothing, once more lays hands upon her to reform her from what had perished.”
In both instances we see Jesus' personal concern for the needs of others and his readiness to heal and restore life. In Jesus we see the infinite love of God extending to each and every individual as he gives freely and wholly of himself to each person he meets. Do you approach the Lord with confident expectation that he will hear your request and act?
"Lord Jesus, you love each of us individually with a unique and personal love. Touch my life with your saving power, heal and restore me to fullness of life. Help me to give wholly of myself in loving service to others."
Wisdom 1:13–15; 2:23–24
God did not make death, nor does he rejoice in the destruction of the living. For he fashioned all things that they might have being; and the creatures of the world are wholesome, and there is not a destructive drug among them nor any domain of the netherworld on earth, for justice is undying. For God formed man to be imperishable; the image of his own nature he made him. But by the envy of the devil, death entered the world, and they who belong to his company experience it.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 30:2, 4, 5–6, 11, 12, 13 (2a)
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
I will extol you, O LORD, for you drew me clear and did not let my enemies rejoice over me. O LORD, you brought me up from the netherworld; you preserved me from among those going down into the pit.
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
Sing praise to the LORD, you his faithful ones, and give thanks to his holy name. For his anger lasts but a moment; a lifetime, his good will. At nightfall, weeping enters in, but with the dawn, rejoicing.
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
Hear, O LORD, and have pity on me; O LORD, be my helper. You changed my mourning into dancing; O LORD, my God, forever will I give you thanks.
R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.
SECOND READING
2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13–15
Brothers and sisters:
As you excel in every respect, in faith, discourse, knowledge, all earnestness, and in the love we have for you, may you excel in this gracious act also.
For you know the gracious act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, for your sake he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich. Not that others should have relief while you are burdened, but that as a matter of equality your abundance at the present time should supply their needs, so that their abundance may also supply your needs, that there may be equality. As it is written: Whoever had much did not have more, and whoever had little did not have less.
ALLELUIA
see 2 Timothy 1:10
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Our Savior Jesus Christ destroyed death and brought life to light through the Gospel.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GOSPEL
Longer Form Mark 5:21–43
When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a large crowd gathered around him, and he stayed close to the sea. One of the synagogue officials, named Jairus, came forward. Seeing him he fell at his feet and pleaded earnestly with him, saying, “My daughter is at the point of death. Please, come lay your hands on her that she may get well and live.” He went off with him, and a large crowd followed him and pressed upon him.
There was a woman afflicted with hemorrhages for twelve years. She had suffered greatly at the hands of many doctors and had spent all that she had. Yet she was not helped but only grew worse. She had heard about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak. She said, “If I but touch his clothes, I shall be cured.” Immediately her flow of blood dried up. She felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction. Jesus, aware at once that power had gone out from him, turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who has touched my clothes?” But his disciples said to Jesus, “You see how the crowd is pressing upon you, and yet you ask, ‘Who touched me?’” And he looked around to see who had done it. The woman, realizing what had happened to her, approached in fear and trembling. She fell down before Jesus and told him the whole truth. He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction.”
While he was still speaking, people from the synagogue official’s house arrived and said, “Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?” Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.” He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official, he caught sight of a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. So he went in and said to them, “Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep.” And they ridiculed him. Then he put them all out. He took along the child’s father and mother and those who were with him and entered the room where the child was. He took the child by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise!” The girl, a child of twelve, arose immediately and walked around. At that they were utterly astounded. He gave strict orders that no one should know this and said that she should be given something to eat.
or:
Shorter Form Mark 5:21–24, 35b–43
When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a large crowd gathered around him, and he stayed close to the sea. One of the synagogue officials, named Jairus, came forward. Seeing him he fell at his feet and pleaded earnestly with him, saying, “My daughter is at the point of death. Please, come lay your hands on her that she may get well and live.” He went off with him, and a large crowd followed him and pressed upon him.
While he was still speaking, people from the synagogue official’s house arrived and said, “Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?” Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.” He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official, he caught sight of a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. So he went in and said to them, “Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep.” And they ridiculed him. Then he put them all out. He took along the child’s father and mother and those who were with him and entered the room where the child was. He took the child by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise!” The girl, a child of twelve, arose immediately and walked around. At that they were utterly astounded. He gave strict orders that no one should know this and said that she should be given something to eat.
REFLECTIONS:
Do you approach the Lord Jesus with expectant faith or with skepticism and doubt? People in desperate or helpless circumstances were not disappointed when they sought Jesus out. What drew them to Jesus? Was it hope for a miracle or a word of comfort in their affliction? What did the elderly woman who had suffered greatly for twelve years expect Jesus to do for her? And what did a grieving father expect Jesus to do about his beloved lost daughter? Jesus gave hope where there seemed to be no human cause for it because his hope was directed to God. He spoke words of hope to the woman (Take heart, daughter!) to ignite the spark of faith in her (your faith has made you well!).
A 4th century church father, Ephrem the Syrian, comments on this miracle: “Glory to you, hidden Son of God, because your healing power is proclaimed through the hidden suffering of the afflicted woman. Through this woman whom they could see, the witnesses were enabled to behold the divinity that cannot be seen. Through the Son’s own healing power his divinity became known. Through the afflicted women’s being healed her faith was made manifest. She caused him to be proclaimed, and indeed was honored with him. For truth was being proclaimed together with its heralds. If she was a witness to his divinity, he in turn was a witness to her faith...He saw through to her hidden faith, and gave her a visible healing.”
Jesus also gave divine hope to a father who had just lost a beloved child. It took considerable courage and risk for the ruler of a synagogue to openly go to Jesus and to invite the scorn of his neighbors and kin. Even the hired mourners laughed at him in scorn. Their grief was devoid of any hope. Nonetheless, Jesus took the girl by the hand and delivered her from the grasp of death. Peter Chrysologus, a 5th century church father comments on this miracle:
“This man was a ruler of the synagogue, and versed in the law. He had surely read that while God created all other things by his word, man had been created by the hand of God. He trusted therefore in God that his daughter would be recreated, and restored to life by that same hand which, he knew, had created her...He who laid hands on her to form her from nothing, once more lays hands upon her to reform her from what had perished.”
In both instances we see Jesus' personal concern for the needs of others and his readiness to heal and restore life. In Jesus we see the infinite love of God extending to each and every individual as he gives freely and wholly of himself to each person he meets. Do you approach the Lord with confident expectation that he will hear your request and act?
"Lord Jesus, you love each of us individually with a unique and personal love. Touch my life with your saving power, heal and restore me to fullness of life. Help me to give wholly of myself in loving service to others."
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