The Seed is the Word of God
“What the sower is sowing is he word. Those on the edge of the path where the word is sown are people who have no sooner heard it than satan comes and carries away the word that was sown in them. Similarly, those who receive the seed on patches of rock are people who, when first they hear the word, welcome it at once with joy. But they have no root in them, they do not last; should some trial come, or some persecution on account of the word, they fall away at once. Then there are others who receive the seed in thorns. These have heard the word, but the worries of this world, the lure of riches and all the other passions come in to choke the word, and so it produces nothing. And there are those who have received the seed in rich soil: they hear the word and accept it and yield a harvest, thirty and sixty and a hundredfold.” (Mar 4: 15 – 20)
This is one of my favorite parables in the Gospel. I see the lessons of the parable so true in myself and in other people in the Body of Christ. For me the core message is that where you are when the word of God comes to you may determine your response and eternal destiny.
The first group in the parable lives “on the edge of the path.” They exist in physical and psychological environment that gives no chance to the word. The demonic influences in their environment are simply overwhelming. What can they do? Seek help and move out of the environment.
The second group lives “on patches of rock.” These are very shallow people. The reason why “they have no root in them” is because they have no understanding of the word that they heard. What can they do? They need to hear the word again and again and study it in order to gain some understanding of the message.
The third group lives “in thorns.” The people in this group are still very much in love with the world. They hear the word and like it and believe that the word can help them to get more out of this world. What can they do? Scripture advices us: “Do not conform to the world.” We need the word of God to renew our minds.
The last group was ready for the word when they heard it. They accept it and put it into practice in their life and the word transforms them. They yield rich harvest.
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Friday, May 05, 2006
Intuition
Intuition
“Finally, stick to the advice your own heart gives you, no one can be truer to you than that; since a person’s soul often gives a clearer warning than 7 watchmen perched on a watchtower. And besides all this beg the Most High to guide your steps into the truth.” (Sirach 37: 13 – 15)
How strong is my desire for the Enterprise? Nobody attains more than he desires. I learned from St. Ignatius that desire makes the man. Is my desire for the Enterprise as strong as to make me sell all that I have in order to purchase this “pearl of great value?”
Yes indeed. My desire for the Enterprise is very strong. It represents the biggest risk I have ever taken in my life. My intuition tells me that this risk is worth taking. Scripture says that my intuition cannot be faulted. I stick to the advice that my own heart gives me because I know that no one can be truer to me than that.
My intuition tells me that the Enterprise is God’s answer to my prayer to discover my purpose in life. The search started in 0193. The same intuition tells me that it is worth risking everything because I will succeed.
“Finally, stick to the advice your own heart gives you, no one can be truer to you than that; since a person’s soul often gives a clearer warning than 7 watchmen perched on a watchtower. And besides all this beg the Most High to guide your steps into the truth.” (Sirach 37: 13 – 15)
How strong is my desire for the Enterprise? Nobody attains more than he desires. I learned from St. Ignatius that desire makes the man. Is my desire for the Enterprise as strong as to make me sell all that I have in order to purchase this “pearl of great value?”
Yes indeed. My desire for the Enterprise is very strong. It represents the biggest risk I have ever taken in my life. My intuition tells me that this risk is worth taking. Scripture says that my intuition cannot be faulted. I stick to the advice that my own heart gives me because I know that no one can be truer to me than that.
My intuition tells me that the Enterprise is God’s answer to my prayer to discover my purpose in life. The search started in 0193. The same intuition tells me that it is worth risking everything because I will succeed.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
The Secret of the Kingdom
The Secret of the Kingdom
“The secret of the kingdom of God is given to you, but to those who are outside everything comes in parable, so that they may see and see again, but not perceive; may hear and hear again, but not understand.” (Mark 4: 11-12)
To understand the words and works of God, one must be an insider. The process of becoming an insider is analogous to the process of initiation into a cult. We call this process the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. The inquirer comes to the Church and declares his interest in becoming a member. He or she is then instructed in the basics of the Christian faith for a period between one year and three years. The inquirer is taught the main events of salvation history from the Bible, the person and the life of Jesus Christ and the Sacraments of the Church. When he is ready, he declares publicly his intention to proceed to full initiation into the “secret of the kingdom of God” through Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist. Then he becomes an insider who has received the secrets of the kingdom of God.
I thank God for having initiated me into the secrets of his kingdom. I believe the words of Jesus that the kingdom of God is now within me. The seed of the word of God is in my heart. This word is active and dynamic. If I tend it, it will grow and yield harvest in proportion to my desire and faith. Today’s word of life reminds me of my call by Christ to a life of friendship and companionship with him. Jesus spoke the words in Mark 4: 11 – 12 when he was alone with his disciples.
Lord Jesus, thank you for your call to a life of friendship and companionship. I need to feel your presence very close at this moment. I know you will tell me that you are always very close. Make me believe it keenly every moment.
“The secret of the kingdom of God is given to you, but to those who are outside everything comes in parable, so that they may see and see again, but not perceive; may hear and hear again, but not understand.” (Mark 4: 11-12)
To understand the words and works of God, one must be an insider. The process of becoming an insider is analogous to the process of initiation into a cult. We call this process the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. The inquirer comes to the Church and declares his interest in becoming a member. He or she is then instructed in the basics of the Christian faith for a period between one year and three years. The inquirer is taught the main events of salvation history from the Bible, the person and the life of Jesus Christ and the Sacraments of the Church. When he is ready, he declares publicly his intention to proceed to full initiation into the “secret of the kingdom of God” through Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist. Then he becomes an insider who has received the secrets of the kingdom of God.
I thank God for having initiated me into the secrets of his kingdom. I believe the words of Jesus that the kingdom of God is now within me. The seed of the word of God is in my heart. This word is active and dynamic. If I tend it, it will grow and yield harvest in proportion to my desire and faith. Today’s word of life reminds me of my call by Christ to a life of friendship and companionship with him. Jesus spoke the words in Mark 4: 11 – 12 when he was alone with his disciples.
Lord Jesus, thank you for your call to a life of friendship and companionship. I need to feel your presence very close at this moment. I know you will tell me that you are always very close. Make me believe it keenly every moment.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
The Sower, the Seed & the Harvest
The Sower, the Seed and the Harvest
“Listen! Imagine a sower going out to sow …… as he sowed …..some seeds fell into rich soil and, growing tall and strong, produced crop; and yielded 30, 60, even a 100 fold.” (Mark 4: 1 – 9)
The seed is the word of God. When it falls into a rich soil, it produces rich harvest. What is a rich soil? A rich soil is a soul that has been prepared and conditioned to receive the word of God. Who has the responsibility for preparing and conditioning this “soil”? Each person prepares himself using all the means provided by a God who knows no favorites.
The means for preparing the soul to receive the word of God are prayer, the sacraments, study and a desire for God. When the soul is prepared, it becomes like a watered garden. It becomes expectant and receptive. So when it hears the word of God (Rhema), it is ready for it. It recognizes its opportunity when it comes because it has been expecting it. When the word of God is received with faith, it germinates, grows and yields rich harvest.
“Listen! Imagine a sower going out to sow …… as he sowed …..some seeds fell into rich soil and, growing tall and strong, produced crop; and yielded 30, 60, even a 100 fold.” (Mark 4: 1 – 9)
The seed is the word of God. When it falls into a rich soil, it produces rich harvest. What is a rich soil? A rich soil is a soul that has been prepared and conditioned to receive the word of God. Who has the responsibility for preparing and conditioning this “soil”? Each person prepares himself using all the means provided by a God who knows no favorites.
The means for preparing the soul to receive the word of God are prayer, the sacraments, study and a desire for God. When the soul is prepared, it becomes like a watered garden. It becomes expectant and receptive. So when it hears the word of God (Rhema), it is ready for it. It recognizes its opportunity when it comes because it has been expecting it. When the word of God is received with faith, it germinates, grows and yields rich harvest.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Who is my mother?
Who is my mother?
“Who are my mother and my brothers? Here are my mother and my brothers. Anyone who does the will of God, that person is my brother and sister and mother.” (Mark 3: 34)
Jesus seizes the opportunity of the visit of his mother to teach us an important lesson about a new kind of relationship in the kingdom. If I do the will of God, I can truly call Jesus, my brother. Jesus praises his mother because she does the will of God. Christ is saying here that spiritual maternity is of a higher order than a mere physical one. Mary is the mother of Jesus in the order of nature and in the higher order of grace.
Jesus gave us his mother on the cross even when we were still sinners. This is so that the mother will lead us to our brother, Jesus.
I turn to Mary, the one full of grace and pray: Holy Mary, Mother of Jesus, you were praised because you do the will of God. I too am your son. Teach me to hear the word of God today and to do it.
“Who are my mother and my brothers? Here are my mother and my brothers. Anyone who does the will of God, that person is my brother and sister and mother.” (Mark 3: 34)
Jesus seizes the opportunity of the visit of his mother to teach us an important lesson about a new kind of relationship in the kingdom. If I do the will of God, I can truly call Jesus, my brother. Jesus praises his mother because she does the will of God. Christ is saying here that spiritual maternity is of a higher order than a mere physical one. Mary is the mother of Jesus in the order of nature and in the higher order of grace.
Jesus gave us his mother on the cross even when we were still sinners. This is so that the mother will lead us to our brother, Jesus.
I turn to Mary, the one full of grace and pray: Holy Mary, Mother of Jesus, you were praised because you do the will of God. I too am your son. Teach me to hear the word of God today and to do it.
Monday, May 01, 2006
Criticisms
Criticisms
“I tell you solemnly, all men’s sins will be forgiven, and all their blasphemies; but let anyone blaspheme against the Holy Spirit and he will never have forgiveness: he is guilty of an eternal sin.” (Mark 3: 28 – 30)
Jesus reacts here to an unfair and severe criticism. Instead of gratitude for his miracles, his enemies used his benevolence as a point of attack in order to demoralize Jesus and his followers. If Jesus had unclean spirit, he would be regarded as a sinister magician.
What is my attitude to criticisms? Do I feel crushed by them? Do I succumb to a well-planned trap by being discouraged and abandon some good work? The first thing to do when faced with a severe criticism is to pause and understand the nature of the attack. Who is the attacker? Try to see the motive. If you determine that this is a spiritual warfare, then follow the advice of the spiritual masters. “Agere contra.” To the exact opposite of what the enemy is urging. If the enemy’s intention is for you to abandon prayer, double your prayers.
Lord Jesus, help me never to overreact to criticism. Let me always remember that you who are goodness and wisdom was also criticized.
“I tell you solemnly, all men’s sins will be forgiven, and all their blasphemies; but let anyone blaspheme against the Holy Spirit and he will never have forgiveness: he is guilty of an eternal sin.” (Mark 3: 28 – 30)
Jesus reacts here to an unfair and severe criticism. Instead of gratitude for his miracles, his enemies used his benevolence as a point of attack in order to demoralize Jesus and his followers. If Jesus had unclean spirit, he would be regarded as a sinister magician.
What is my attitude to criticisms? Do I feel crushed by them? Do I succumb to a well-planned trap by being discouraged and abandon some good work? The first thing to do when faced with a severe criticism is to pause and understand the nature of the attack. Who is the attacker? Try to see the motive. If you determine that this is a spiritual warfare, then follow the advice of the spiritual masters. “Agere contra.” To the exact opposite of what the enemy is urging. If the enemy’s intention is for you to abandon prayer, double your prayers.
Lord Jesus, help me never to overreact to criticism. Let me always remember that you who are goodness and wisdom was also criticized.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Jesus summoned those he wanted
Jesus summoned those he wanted.
“He now went up into the hills and summoned those he wanted. So they came to him and he appointed 12; they were to be his companions and to be sent out to preach, with power to cast out devils.” (Mark 3: 13-14)
Jesus summoned those he wanted. He wanted me and therefore he called me. Like the second call of Jonas, this is also my second calling. Lord Jesus, I have heard. Now tell me what to do.
Those Christ called, he made his companions. What is a companion? A companion is a friend that is always there, sharing everything with his friend. Availability is a characteristic of companionship. Christ wants me to be his companion. He wants me to make a permanent room in my heart for him. Lord, thank you for this honor. I accept.
He sent out the 12 to preach with power to cast out devils. Although they had not become knowledgeable in kingdom principles, in personal holiness or their commitment to him, he trusted them enough to send them out to preach in his name. How about me? Today I yearn for power to publish Christ. I believe that Jesus will give me this power.
“He now went up into the hills and summoned those he wanted. So they came to him and he appointed 12; they were to be his companions and to be sent out to preach, with power to cast out devils.” (Mark 3: 13-14)
Jesus summoned those he wanted. He wanted me and therefore he called me. Like the second call of Jonas, this is also my second calling. Lord Jesus, I have heard. Now tell me what to do.
Those Christ called, he made his companions. What is a companion? A companion is a friend that is always there, sharing everything with his friend. Availability is a characteristic of companionship. Christ wants me to be his companion. He wants me to make a permanent room in my heart for him. Lord, thank you for this honor. I accept.
He sent out the 12 to preach with power to cast out devils. Although they had not become knowledgeable in kingdom principles, in personal holiness or their commitment to him, he trusted them enough to send them out to preach in his name. How about me? Today I yearn for power to publish Christ. I believe that Jesus will give me this power.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Be Merciful
Be Merciful
“Is it against the law on the Sabbath day to do good, or to do evil; to save life or to kill?’ But they said nothing. Then, grieved to find them so obstinate, he looked angrily round at them, and said, to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He stretched it out and his hand was better.” (Mark 3: 4 – 5)
The above passage evokes these associations:
To please God, we must understand the things that are nearest to his heart. When we take the spirit out of the law, we find that the letter of the law can be very harsh. Mercy, love and compassion are nearer the heart of God than strict observance of the law.
Lord, teach me to be merciful in applying the law.
“Is it against the law on the Sabbath day to do good, or to do evil; to save life or to kill?’ But they said nothing. Then, grieved to find them so obstinate, he looked angrily round at them, and said, to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He stretched it out and his hand was better.” (Mark 3: 4 – 5)
The above passage evokes these associations:
- “What I want is mercy and compassion and not sacrifice.”
- “A sacrifice of thanksgiving honors me.”
- “The Sabbath is made for man and not man for the Sabbath.”
- “What I want is love and knowledge of God.”
To please God, we must understand the things that are nearest to his heart. When we take the spirit out of the law, we find that the letter of the law can be very harsh. Mercy, love and compassion are nearer the heart of God than strict observance of the law.
Lord, teach me to be merciful in applying the law.
Friday, April 28, 2006
The Sabbath was made for man
The Sabbath was made for man
“The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath; so the son of man is master even of the Sabbath.” (Mark 2: 27)
Under a particular circumstance, David ate sacred bread which he was not supposed to eat. His motive was the preservation of life. This was not considered as sin. The disciples who picked ears of corn on a Sabbath when Jesus was with them were not considered to have done any wrong. Jesus said that he made the Sabbath and the law about it. So he knows when the Sabbath is infringed. Christ healed the paralytic on the Sabbath.
God’s wisdom, knowledge and motives are impenetrable to man. This is why he reserves judgment and condemnation to himself alone.
“The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath; so the son of man is master even of the Sabbath.” (Mark 2: 27)
Under a particular circumstance, David ate sacred bread which he was not supposed to eat. His motive was the preservation of life. This was not considered as sin. The disciples who picked ears of corn on a Sabbath when Jesus was with them were not considered to have done any wrong. Jesus said that he made the Sabbath and the law about it. So he knows when the Sabbath is infringed. Christ healed the paralytic on the Sabbath.
God’s wisdom, knowledge and motives are impenetrable to man. This is why he reserves judgment and condemnation to himself alone.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
The Bridegroom
The Bridegroom
“Surely the bridegroom’s attendants would never think of fasting while the bridegroom is still with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they could not think of fasting.” (Mark 2: 19)
Jesus defends his disciples from the attacks of the Pharisees. I recall how he is concerned for their welfare. “Come, let us go to a quiet place and get some rest”; “Come and have breakfast”; “Peace be with you”. It is obvious that Jesus cares very much for the men he has chosen to be with him.
How about me? I believe that Christ has called me to a life of friendship and companionship with him. He wants me to trust him completely with all my cares, my desires and my plans. He promises to take care of them for me. Lord Jesus, I feel delighted by this inspiration and I thank you for it. I know I can trust you. Thank you for my faith. I have made up my mind to trust you completely with the Enterprise. I let go and let you, dearest Jesus. Fill me with faith in your guidance. Teach me how to grow through this unique opportunity. In all things, let me know your will and give me the courage to do it. Amen!
“Surely the bridegroom’s attendants would never think of fasting while the bridegroom is still with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they could not think of fasting.” (Mark 2: 19)
Jesus defends his disciples from the attacks of the Pharisees. I recall how he is concerned for their welfare. “Come, let us go to a quiet place and get some rest”; “Come and have breakfast”; “Peace be with you”. It is obvious that Jesus cares very much for the men he has chosen to be with him.
How about me? I believe that Christ has called me to a life of friendship and companionship with him. He wants me to trust him completely with all my cares, my desires and my plans. He promises to take care of them for me. Lord Jesus, I feel delighted by this inspiration and I thank you for it. I know I can trust you. Thank you for my faith. I have made up my mind to trust you completely with the Enterprise. I let go and let you, dearest Jesus. Fill me with faith in your guidance. Teach me how to grow through this unique opportunity. In all things, let me know your will and give me the courage to do it. Amen!
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
O Happy Fault!
O Happy Fault!
“Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?’ When Jesus heard this he said to them, ‘It is not the healthy who need the doctor, but the sick. I did not come to call the virtuous, but sinners.” (Mark 2: 17)
“Bless the Lord, my soul; all my being, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, my soul; do not forget all the gifts of God, who pardons all your sins and heals all your ills.” (Psalm 103: 1-3). Yes indeed, Jesus came to call sinners and not the just. He came to bring health to the sick. My misfortunes have brought me a Savior. O happy fault!
How do I appropriate more fully the promises of Jesus in Mark 2: 17? I confess my sins to God. I partake of the sacrament of reconciliation. I become aware that I am now a friend of Jesus and I do what is right. I affirm always that by his stripes I am healed. I look to Jesus to provide me good health and maintain it. I do the right thing with regard to my health. I eat sensibly, rest well and exercise properly.
Now that these gifts are mine, I teach them to others and help them appropriate them.
“Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?’ When Jesus heard this he said to them, ‘It is not the healthy who need the doctor, but the sick. I did not come to call the virtuous, but sinners.” (Mark 2: 17)
“Bless the Lord, my soul; all my being, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, my soul; do not forget all the gifts of God, who pardons all your sins and heals all your ills.” (Psalm 103: 1-3). Yes indeed, Jesus came to call sinners and not the just. He came to bring health to the sick. My misfortunes have brought me a Savior. O happy fault!
How do I appropriate more fully the promises of Jesus in Mark 2: 17? I confess my sins to God. I partake of the sacrament of reconciliation. I become aware that I am now a friend of Jesus and I do what is right. I affirm always that by his stripes I am healed. I look to Jesus to provide me good health and maintain it. I do the right thing with regard to my health. I eat sensibly, rest well and exercise properly.
Now that these gifts are mine, I teach them to others and help them appropriate them.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Get Up and Follow Me
Get Up and Follow Me
“He went out again to the shore of the lake; and all the people came to him, and he taught them. As he was walking on, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus, sitting by the custom’s house, and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he got up and followed him.” (Mark 2: 13 – 14)
Levi also called Matthew in the Gospels is a tax collector. He was like the local internal revenue agent. One skill he must possess is that of record keeping and writing reports. These are the skills that would be very important in the kingdom project that Jesus Christ has just inaugurated. Jesus asked Levi to quit his job and use his skills for a higher calling.
We are all called to follow Jesus and serve him with all our time, talent and treasure. But not everybody is called to leave everything behind and follow him more closely. How can we serve Christ more completely in our non religious professions? When we do everything for Jesus at home and at work, we can say that we respond to his call to “get up and follow him.”
“He went out again to the shore of the lake; and all the people came to him, and he taught them. As he was walking on, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus, sitting by the custom’s house, and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he got up and followed him.” (Mark 2: 13 – 14)
Levi also called Matthew in the Gospels is a tax collector. He was like the local internal revenue agent. One skill he must possess is that of record keeping and writing reports. These are the skills that would be very important in the kingdom project that Jesus Christ has just inaugurated. Jesus asked Levi to quit his job and use his skills for a higher calling.
We are all called to follow Jesus and serve him with all our time, talent and treasure. But not everybody is called to leave everything behind and follow him more closely. How can we serve Christ more completely in our non religious professions? When we do everything for Jesus at home and at work, we can say that we respond to his call to “get up and follow him.”
Monday, April 24, 2006
Thank you Jesus for your love and mercy
Thank you Jesus for your love and mercy
“Why do you have these thoughts in your hearts? Which of these is easier? To say to the paralytic, “Your sins are forgiven’ or to say, “get up, pick up your stretcher and walk?’ But to prove to you that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins,’ – he said to the paralytic – ‘I order you: get up, pick up your stretcher and go off home.” (Mark 2: 9 – 12)
Thank you Jesus. Thank you for this beautiful incidence. Lord Jesus, my soul praises you and I will never forget how kind you are. Is it not you who forgave all my sins? Did you not heal all my diseases? You kept me from the grave and blessed me with love and mercy. You fill my life with good things and renew my youth like an eagle. I thank you with all my heart for your kindness and mercy to me. Now that I am aware of all that you do for me, Lord help me to respond in act and not just in words. O Prince of Peace, I love you. I love you above all things. May I grow in your love this very day. Help me to share this love with others. Amen!
“Why do you have these thoughts in your hearts? Which of these is easier? To say to the paralytic, “Your sins are forgiven’ or to say, “get up, pick up your stretcher and walk?’ But to prove to you that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins,’ – he said to the paralytic – ‘I order you: get up, pick up your stretcher and go off home.” (Mark 2: 9 – 12)
Thank you Jesus. Thank you for this beautiful incidence. Lord Jesus, my soul praises you and I will never forget how kind you are. Is it not you who forgave all my sins? Did you not heal all my diseases? You kept me from the grave and blessed me with love and mercy. You fill my life with good things and renew my youth like an eagle. I thank you with all my heart for your kindness and mercy to me. Now that I am aware of all that you do for me, Lord help me to respond in act and not just in words. O Prince of Peace, I love you. I love you above all things. May I grow in your love this very day. Help me to share this love with others. Amen!
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence
Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence
“A leper came to him and pleaded on his knees: ‘if you want to’ he said ‘you can cure me.’ Feeling sorry for him, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him. ‘Of course I want to!’ he said. ‘Be cured!’ And the leprosy left him at once and he was cured.” (Mark 1: 40 – 42)
Scripture teaches and encourages us. I see here a humble leper who did not appear confident that he deserved anything from Jesus. But Christ’s words were most reassuring. “Of course I want to!” It teaches me that nobody has a monopoly over God’s benevolence. We are all his children. It also reminds me of the text that urges us to approach God’s throne of grace with faith and confidence. The leper has faith but little confidence.
I know that God can do anything for me. I believe that he can heal and change circumstances this very moment. Do I have the confidence that if I ask him, he will do it? Lord Jesus, all I can say truthfully is that I am growing in this confidence as I know you better everyday. Lord, increase my faith and my confidence in you.
“A leper came to him and pleaded on his knees: ‘if you want to’ he said ‘you can cure me.’ Feeling sorry for him, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him. ‘Of course I want to!’ he said. ‘Be cured!’ And the leprosy left him at once and he was cured.” (Mark 1: 40 – 42)
Scripture teaches and encourages us. I see here a humble leper who did not appear confident that he deserved anything from Jesus. But Christ’s words were most reassuring. “Of course I want to!” It teaches me that nobody has a monopoly over God’s benevolence. We are all his children. It also reminds me of the text that urges us to approach God’s throne of grace with faith and confidence. The leper has faith but little confidence.
I know that God can do anything for me. I believe that he can heal and change circumstances this very moment. Do I have the confidence that if I ask him, he will do it? Lord Jesus, all I can say truthfully is that I am growing in this confidence as I know you better everyday. Lord, increase my faith and my confidence in you.
Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence
Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence
“A leper came to him and pleaded on his knees: ‘if you want to’ he said ‘you can cure me.’ Feeling sorry for him, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him. ‘Of course I want to!’ he said. ‘Be cured!’ And the leprosy left him at once and he was cured.” (Mark 1: 40 – 42)
Scripture teaches and encourages us. I see here a humble leper who did not appear confident that he deserved anything from Jesus. But Christ’s words were most reassuring. “Of course I want to!” It teaches me that nobody has a monopoly over God’s benevolence. We are all his children. It also reminds me of the text that urges us to approach God’s throne of grace with faith and confidence. The leper has faith but little confidence.
I know that God can do anything for me. I believe that he can heal and change circumstances this very moment. Do I have the confidence that if I ask him, he will do it? Lord Jesus, all I can say truthfully is that I am growing in this confidence as I know you better everyday. Lord, increase my faith and my confidence in you.
“A leper came to him and pleaded on his knees: ‘if you want to’ he said ‘you can cure me.’ Feeling sorry for him, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him. ‘Of course I want to!’ he said. ‘Be cured!’ And the leprosy left him at once and he was cured.” (Mark 1: 40 – 42)
Scripture teaches and encourages us. I see here a humble leper who did not appear confident that he deserved anything from Jesus. But Christ’s words were most reassuring. “Of course I want to!” It teaches me that nobody has a monopoly over God’s benevolence. We are all his children. It also reminds me of the text that urges us to approach God’s throne of grace with faith and confidence. The leper has faith but little confidence.
I know that God can do anything for me. I believe that he can heal and change circumstances this very moment. Do I have the confidence that if I ask him, he will do it? Lord Jesus, all I can say truthfully is that I am growing in this confidence as I know you better everyday. Lord, increase my faith and my confidence in you.
Friday, April 21, 2006
He Prayed in a lonely place
He Prayed in a lonely place
“In the morning, long before dawn, he got up and left the house, and went of to a lonely place and prayed there.” (Mark 1: 35)
Christ teaches us about prayer by word and example. These are some of the elements:
He got up early to pray.
He went to his closet to pray.
He prayed with simple words.
It has been noted by many writers including Documents of Vatican Council II that Christ’s actions are commentary on his words and vice-versa. What Christ did, he taught. In the Wisdom books, the Holy Spirit advises us to rise early and commune with God. Jesus taught that we pray in our closet, far from the madding crowd. Pray with simplicity because you are talking to a Father who already knows what you need and wants to give it to you, he taught.
Peter speaking of Cornelius in Acts 10: 4, says, “God is pleased with your prayers and works of charity and is ready to answer you.” May God be pleased with our prayers and our works of mercy and answer our prayers.
“In the morning, long before dawn, he got up and left the house, and went of to a lonely place and prayed there.” (Mark 1: 35)
Christ teaches us about prayer by word and example. These are some of the elements:
He got up early to pray.
He went to his closet to pray.
He prayed with simple words.
It has been noted by many writers including Documents of Vatican Council II that Christ’s actions are commentary on his words and vice-versa. What Christ did, he taught. In the Wisdom books, the Holy Spirit advises us to rise early and commune with God. Jesus taught that we pray in our closet, far from the madding crowd. Pray with simplicity because you are talking to a Father who already knows what you need and wants to give it to you, he taught.
Peter speaking of Cornelius in Acts 10: 4, says, “God is pleased with your prayers and works of charity and is ready to answer you.” May God be pleased with our prayers and our works of mercy and answer our prayers.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Jesus heals
Jesus heals
“That evening, after sunset, they brought to him all who were sick and those who were possessed by devils. The whole town came crowding round the door, and he cured many who were suffering from diseases of one kind or another; he also cast out many devils.” (Mark 1: 32 – 34)
Jesus heals the sick every time and everywhere. Jesus still casts out devils. When I reflected on this scripture in 1996, I was broken in body and had not worked for over a year because of ill health. I wrote in my journal:
“Jesus can heal me permanently body, soul and mind. Lord Jesus, I believe this with my whole heart. But what is the mind of Christ for me with regard to my condition? I thank Jesus that through his grace, I have gained a major victory over sickness or pain. I know that ill health can never prevent me from fulfilling God’s mission for me. Another thing that Jesus has done for me with regard to my health is to provide me the drugs that I need. Thank you Jesus for all of these blessings. I have learned from my condition the following lessons:
“That evening, after sunset, they brought to him all who were sick and those who were possessed by devils. The whole town came crowding round the door, and he cured many who were suffering from diseases of one kind or another; he also cast out many devils.” (Mark 1: 32 – 34)
Jesus heals the sick every time and everywhere. Jesus still casts out devils. When I reflected on this scripture in 1996, I was broken in body and had not worked for over a year because of ill health. I wrote in my journal:
“Jesus can heal me permanently body, soul and mind. Lord Jesus, I believe this with my whole heart. But what is the mind of Christ for me with regard to my condition? I thank Jesus that through his grace, I have gained a major victory over sickness or pain. I know that ill health can never prevent me from fulfilling God’s mission for me. Another thing that Jesus has done for me with regard to my health is to provide me the drugs that I need. Thank you Jesus for all of these blessings. I have learned from my condition the following lessons:
- Jesus can heal us.
- We must be healed of our fear of illness.
- Doctors and medicine can be part of the healing process of Jesus.”
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
No Condition is Permanent
No Condition is Permanent
“There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
“No condition is permanent.” For most of October 1996, I meditated on this truth. Today, I have a better understanding of it. It is a healing truth that could lighten any distressing circumstance. It is a terrible lie to believe that any situation whether adverse or positive is permanent.
Nothing is permanent in life. Everything is passing away. Delays are not permanent; they are temporary. Obstacles and disappointments are not permanent; they are temporary. There is no crisis that does not have a beginning or an end. The good life, dulce vita is not a permanent state. There are interludes in every distressing circumstance. Jesus had two periods of severe and explicit temptations in his earthly life. One lasted for 40 days and the other for about 24 hours.
My circumstances today in 2006 could not have been more different than it was in 1996 when I meditated on Ecclesiastes 3:1 for about one month. I was in a prolonged desert experience. After nine months of being in the desert, I was weighed down by all sorts of problems and began to think that my circumstances could not change. But one day, I received a word of God that changed my perspective entirely. That word concerned the need to wait for the Lord. I took the advice. The rest is history.
“There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
“No condition is permanent.” For most of October 1996, I meditated on this truth. Today, I have a better understanding of it. It is a healing truth that could lighten any distressing circumstance. It is a terrible lie to believe that any situation whether adverse or positive is permanent.
Nothing is permanent in life. Everything is passing away. Delays are not permanent; they are temporary. Obstacles and disappointments are not permanent; they are temporary. There is no crisis that does not have a beginning or an end. The good life, dulce vita is not a permanent state. There are interludes in every distressing circumstance. Jesus had two periods of severe and explicit temptations in his earthly life. One lasted for 40 days and the other for about 24 hours.
My circumstances today in 2006 could not have been more different than it was in 1996 when I meditated on Ecclesiastes 3:1 for about one month. I was in a prolonged desert experience. After nine months of being in the desert, I was weighed down by all sorts of problems and began to think that my circumstances could not change. But one day, I received a word of God that changed my perspective entirely. That word concerned the need to wait for the Lord. I took the advice. The rest is history.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
ABC of Mercy
ABC of Mercy
“Now Simon’s mother-in-law had gone to bed with fever, and they told him about her straightaway. He went to her, took her by the hand and helped her up. And the fever left her and she began to wait on them.” (Mark 1: 30-31)
Jesus wants us to call upon him in every trial, trouble and temptation. Listen to what he tells you and do it.
Often we want to be heroic in our trials and even in sickness. Or we decide that the sickness is a minor one and does not merit the attention of Jesus. But Jesus wants a full and trusting relationship with us. The ABC of Divine Mercy means:
Lord Jesus, thank you for the lesson today. I too want to involve you fully in my life. Teach me how to do it. Teach me also how to see my pains and trials through your eyes.
“Now Simon’s mother-in-law had gone to bed with fever, and they told him about her straightaway. He went to her, took her by the hand and helped her up. And the fever left her and she began to wait on them.” (Mark 1: 30-31)
Jesus wants us to call upon him in every trial, trouble and temptation. Listen to what he tells you and do it.
Often we want to be heroic in our trials and even in sickness. Or we decide that the sickness is a minor one and does not merit the attention of Jesus. But Jesus wants a full and trusting relationship with us. The ABC of Divine Mercy means:
- A - Ask for Mercy
- B - Be Merciful
- C - Completely trust in Jesus
Lord Jesus, thank you for the lesson today. I too want to involve you fully in my life. Teach me how to do it. Teach me also how to see my pains and trials through your eyes.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Christ will come again!
Christ will come again!
“Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “I know you are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is not here – he has been raised! Look, here is the place where they put him. Now go and give this message to his disciples, including Peter: ‘He is going to Galilee ahead of you: there you will see him, just as he told you.’ So they went out and ran from the tomb, distressed and terrified. They said nothing to anyone because they were afraid.” (Mark 16: 6 – 8)
Paraphrasing what the angel said to the women: ‘Don’t be afraid to see me here. Don’t be surprised that the body of Jesus is not here. He has been raised from the dead as he foretold. Go and give the news to his disciples.’ Inspite of these assurances, the women were ‘distressed and terrified.” They were ‘afraid.’ Why did they manifest this reaction instead of joy and a sense of triumph? Is it possible that this development caught them unawares? They forgot the message of Jesus that he would be crucified but would rise again on the third day.
What message of Jesus are we in danger of forgetting today? “Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again!”
“Now go and give this message to his disciples.” “Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again!”
“Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “I know you are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is not here – he has been raised! Look, here is the place where they put him. Now go and give this message to his disciples, including Peter: ‘He is going to Galilee ahead of you: there you will see him, just as he told you.’ So they went out and ran from the tomb, distressed and terrified. They said nothing to anyone because they were afraid.” (Mark 16: 6 – 8)
Paraphrasing what the angel said to the women: ‘Don’t be afraid to see me here. Don’t be surprised that the body of Jesus is not here. He has been raised from the dead as he foretold. Go and give the news to his disciples.’ Inspite of these assurances, the women were ‘distressed and terrified.” They were ‘afraid.’ Why did they manifest this reaction instead of joy and a sense of triumph? Is it possible that this development caught them unawares? They forgot the message of Jesus that he would be crucified but would rise again on the third day.
What message of Jesus are we in danger of forgetting today? “Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again!”
“Now go and give this message to his disciples.” “Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again!”
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