First Friday in July - Sacred Heart of Jesus: All over the world, we honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus today.
We live today in the Season of Mercy. "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy." (Matthew 5: 7).
The ABC OF MERCY:
A: Ask for Mercy.
B: Be Merciful.
C: Completely trust Jesus for Mercy.
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)
We all labor and are heavily burdened with problems of money, health, family, job, cars, etc. Jesus knows us individually and is aware of our situation. He invites us to come to Him to find solution to our many problems. We come to Jesus in the Eucharist. We meet Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. When the Church gathers in prayer in His name, He is there. When we accept the word of God with faith, it changes our lives and our circumstances.
Prayer for genuine contentment
"My God, in your creation of this world you made all things to be very good. I thank you, Lord, for all the goods of this world, and especially all those who have provided for me and my loved ones.
But remind me, Lord, that only you are the true Good, and that all earthly goods are but shadows of you. And should I become very attached to any fleeting good, and let it obstruct my love for you, grant me the holy desire to have it taken from me. Through Christ Our Lord, the King of glory who has no pillow to lay his head. Amen."
LISTEN TO JESUS CHRIST, THE FAITHFUL WITNESS.
"Set your mind on God's kingdom
and His justice before everything else, and all the rest will come to you as well.
So do not be anxious about tomorrow; tomorrow will look after itself. Each day has troubles
enough of its own." (Matthew 6: 33-34)
"God put Abraham to the test." (Genesis 22: 1).
"Take your son Isaac, your only one, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah. There offer him up as a burnt offering on one of the heights that I will point out to you." (Genesis 22: 2 - 3).
"Isaac spoke to his father Abraham. “Father!” he said. “Here I am,” he replied. Isaac continued, “Here are the fire and the wood, but where is the sheep for the burnt offering?” “My son,” Abraham answered, “God will provide the sheep for the burnt offering.” (Genesis 22: 7 - 8).
Isaac is a type of Christ. Through this event and dialogue, God revealed what would happen in the future. In the Eucharistic liturgy, the Church offers to God the gift He provides. God transforms the gift into the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ gives this to us. We call this the holy exchange.
"For now I know that you fear God, since you did not withhold from me your son, your only one.” (Genesis 22: 12).
Abraham was ready to sacrifice his only son, the son of promise. But God did not spare His own Son, Jesus. Because of this, Scripture says that God will never deny us anything that is good for us. (Cf Romans 8: 32).
“I swear by my very self—oracle of the Lord—that because you acted as you did in not withholding from me your son, your only one, I will bless you and make your descendants as countless as the stars of the sky and the sands of the seashore." (Genesis 22: 16 - 17).
Because of Abraham's Obedience of faith, we inherited unbelievable blessings.
“What is the matter, Hagar? Do not fear; God has heard the boy’s voice in this plight of his. Get up, lift up the boy and hold him by the hand; for I will make of him a great nation.” Then God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water. She went and filled the skin with water, and then let the boy drink." (Genesis 21: 17 - 19).
"God was with the boy as he grew up." (Genesis 21: 20).
"This poor one cried out and the lord heard, and from all his distress he saved him.
The angel of the Lord encamps
around those who fear him, and he saves them." (Psalm 34: 7 - 8).
"As dawn was breaking, the angels urged Lot on, saying, “Come on! Take your wife with you and your two daughters who are here, or you will be swept away in the punishment of the city.” When he hesitated, the men, because of the Lord’s compassion for him, seized his hand and the hands of his wife and his two daughters and led them to safety outside the city." (Genesis 19: 15 - 17 NABRE).
The Providence of God led Lot and his family to freedom. Just as war and famine are part and parcel of human history, so is refugee and exile a byproduct of war and famine. America by the Providence of God is a nation of immigrants. Some came as economic, religious and political refugees. All are attracted by the bright beacon of freedom. Every single person in America is led here by the Providence of God one way or another. Politicians blocking immigration reform under the subterfuge of law and order are only kicking against the goad. The Sovereign Will of God will prevail in the fullness of time.
"Father of all nations and ages,
we recall the day when our country
claimed its place among the family of nations; for what has been achieved we give you thanks,
for the work that still remains we ask your help, and as you have called us from many peoples to be one nation, grant that, under your providence, our country may share your blessings with all the peoples of the earth. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever." (Collect for the Mass of Independence).
Happy Independence to all!
Unless I see, I will not believe.
Stop doubting and believe!
"So the other disciples kept telling him, We have seen the Lord! But he said to them, Unless I see in His hands the marks made by the nails and put my finger into the nail prints, and put my hand into His side, I will never believe [it]. "
(John 20:25 AMP)
"Then Jesus said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” (John 20:27 NIV)
Unless I become rich, I will not believe...
Unless I am healed, I will not believe..
Unless I have my dream job, home, I will not believe..
What is your UNLESS?
Today is the feast of the Apostle Thomas.
"Elisha said to her, “This time next year you’re going to be nursing an infant son.”
“O my master, O Holy Man,” she said, “don’t play games with me, teasing me with such fantasies!” (2 Kings 4: 16 MSG).
"God said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh saying, ‘Me? Have a baby? An old woman like me?’ Is anything too hard for God? I’ll be back about this time next year and Sarah will have a baby.” (Genesis 18: 14 MSG).
"The promises of the LORD I will sing forever, through all generations my mouth shall proclaim your faithfulness.
For you have said, “My kindness is established forever”; in heaven you have confirmed your faithfulness." (Psalm 89: 2 - 3 NABRE).
"Is anything too marvelous for the Lord to do? At the appointed time, about this time next year, I will return to you, and Sarah will have a son.” (Genesis 18: 14).
"And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” (Luke 1: 36 - 37).
The Almighty has done great things for Sarah and Mary. In every generation, God shows His mercy on those who revere and worship Him.
Thank you Abba Father for Your mercies and faithfulness.
“Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.” He stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, “I will do it. Be made clean.” His leprosy was cleansed immediately." (Matthew 8: 2 - 3).
Notice here one of the key conditions for answered prayer in the Gospel. The supplicant [the leper in this case] approaches Jesus with humility, kneels and worships Him and then asks for the favor with faith. “Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.”
Jesus' response was breathtaking. He could have said: Ya, be healed. But "He stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, “I will do it. Be made clean.” His leprosy was cleansed immediately." (Matthew 8: 2 - 3).
Lord Jesus, grant us the faith that trust You in all our needs. Help us to approach You with humility knowing that you are Lord and God. We ask for this in Your Name Jesus. Amen.
June 29th, today, is the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul. This feast is of ancient origin. It is a public holiday in some countries. Why honor Saints Peter and Paul with a Solemnity? Because the most important accomplishment of Jesus Christ in His mission on earth is the CHURCH! The Church is the Sacrament and Instrument of Salvation. Scripture teaches that the Church is built on the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets. (Cf Ephesians 2: 20). Peter and Paul are joint managing directors of the institution, (Church) in a manner of speaking.
"You are Peter and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it." (Matthew 16: 18)
Peter was made the head of the Church by Jesus Christ Himself. At the same time, he was given the power of the keys. (Matthew 16: 13-19)
"Now I want you to know, brothers, that the gospel preached by me is not of human origin. For I did not receive it from a human being, nor was I taught it, but it came through a revelation of Jesus Christ." (Galatians 1: 11 - 12).
We may call Paul the 13th Apostle, even a super Apostle.
"O God, who on the Solemnity of the Apostles Peter and Paul
give us the noble and holy joy of this day, grant, we pray, that your Church may in all things follow the teaching of those through whom she received the beginnings of right religion.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son." (Collect on the Solemnity of SS Peter and Paul).
"Remain in me, as I remain in you, says the Lord;
whoever remains in me will bear much fruit." (John 15: 14, 15 RM).
Jesus speaks constantly of bearing fruits: much fruits, abundant fruits, fruits that will last.
How do we bear rich and abiding fruits? The 2 people in the Bible who bore such fruits are Abraham and Mary.
What they did: "Abram put his faith in the Lord, who attributed it to him as an act of righteousness." (Genesis 15: 6).
"Mary responded, "I am the Lord's servant. May everything you have said about me come true." (Luke 1: 38).
Fruitfulness is not addiction to activity. It is believing God. It is knowing the will of God for you and doing it. Trust in the Lord with all your heart. He will accomplish the work.
"But the gate to life is very narrow. The road that leads there is so hard to follow that only a few people find it." (Matthew 7: 14 CEV).
What is the Narrow Way?
It the way of daily communion with God in Prayer and His Word. It is the path of daily faithfulness to Jesus in everything. The reward even in this life is huge:
Peace, assurance of mercy and pardon, a strong sense of your purpose in life. You enjoy the presence of Jesus day and night. It is a taste of the goodness of God in lavish provision of what you need and step by step direction and moment to moment provisions.
“Don’t look for shortcuts to God. The market is flooded with surefire, easygoing formulas for a successful life that can be practiced in your spare time. Don’t fall for that stuff, even though crowds of people do. The way to life—to God!—is vigorous and requires total attention." (Matthew 7: 13 - 14 MSG).
"The eyes of all look to you, Lord,
and you give them their food in due season." (Psalm 145: 15).
From the window of my bedroom, I often watch birds and squirrels feeding side by side on the grass in the yard. The Scripture teaches that even the powerful young lion depends on God for its food. Amazing! You should have thought that since it is young and so powerful, catching its prey is no challenge. (Psalm 104: 21). It is analogous to thinking that a young bright Ivy league MBA will have no problem getting whatever he wants. Not so, says Holy Scriptures.
"The eyes of all look to you, Lord,
and you give them their food in due season." (Psalm 145: 15).
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
on your own intelligence do not rely; In all your ways be mindful of him, and he will make straight your paths." (Proverbs 3: 5-6).
"Jesus said to the Twelve: "Fear no one." (Matthew 10: 26 RM).
Who are you afraid of? Children fear strangers and anyone whom they do not know. Consider these three persons who feared no one: Jesus, John the Baptist and Paul. They told truth to power. The reason why they feared no one is because they were conscious at all times of the presence of God with them.
God is with us. It is true. God is really with us. You need to practice the presence of God with you and before long, it becomes a habit. What peace and joy will be yours.
"Do not fear: I am with you;
do not be anxious: I am your God.
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my victorious right hand." (Isaiah 41: 10).
No fear. No worry. No doubt. 👨👨👧👧
June 23rd, 2017: The Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
How do you plan to honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus today?
The Twelve Promises of the Sacred Heart to St. Margaret Mary
1. I will give them all the graces necessary for their state of life.
2. I will give peace in their families.
3. I will console them in all their troubles.
4. They shall find in My Heart an assured refuge during life and especially at the hour of death.
5. I will pour abundant blessings on all their undertakings.
6. Sinners shall find in My Heart the source and infinite ocean of mercy.
7. Tepid souls shall become fervent.
8. Fervent souls shall speedily rise to great perfection.
9. I will bless the homes in which the image of My Sacred Heart shall be exposed and honored.
10. I will give to priests the power to touch the most hardened hearts.
11. Those who propagate this devotion shall have their name written in My Heart, and it shall never be effaced.
12. The all-powerful love of My Heart will grant to all those who shall receive Communion on the First Friday of nine consecutive months the grace of final repentance; they shall not die under My displeasure, nor without receiving their Sacraments; My Heart shall be their assured refuge at that last hour.
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The Church celebrates this Friday the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
"The designs of his Heart are from age to age, to rescue their souls from death, and to keep them alive in famine." (Psalm 33: 11, 19).
"One of the soldiers opened his side with a lance, and at once there came forth blood and water." (John 19: 34).
"Grant, we pray, almighty God,
that we, who glory in the Heart of your beloved Son
and recall the wonders of his love for us, may be made worthy to receive an overflowing measure of grace from that fount of heavenly gifts.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son." (Collect in the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus).
"Your Father knows what you need before you ask him." (Matthew 6: 8)
"Your will be done, on earth as in heaven." (Matthew 6: 10).
"Give us today our daily bread." (Matthew 6: 11).
"Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." (Matthew 6: 12)
The above Scripture verses are lifted from Jesus' teaching on Prayer. Jesus did not teach anywhere that hard work is a necessity. But He taught expressly that Prayer is a vital necessity. (Cf Luke 18: 1). Investing time and resources to learn how to pray is perhaps the most rewarding experience.
Abba Father promises to answer our prayers: "If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the holy Spirit to those who ask him?” (Luke 11: 13).
But why are our prayers sometimes not successful?
"You ask but do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions." (James 4: 3).
Father, give us Your Holy Spirit to teach us how to pray.
Brethren, consider these truths about giving:
"Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountiful. (2 Corinthians 9: 6)
"Each must do as already determined, without sadness or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." (2 Corinthians 9: 7)
"God is able to make every grace abundant for you, so that in all things, always having all you need, you may have an abundance for every good work." (2 Corinthians 9: 8).
"The one who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed and increase the harvest of your righteousness." (2 Corinthians 9: 10).
"You are being enriched in every way for all generosity, which through us produces thanksgiving to God." (2 Corinthians 9:11).
To summarize,
#1. We give from what we receive from God.
#2. We can never outdo God in generosity.
#3. God knows exactly what you need and when you need it. So do not be afraid to give until it hurts.
Father, create in us a generous spirit.
"So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect." (Matthew 5: 48).
"I give you a new commandment:
love one another as I have loved you." (John 13: 34).
We have above two seemingly impossible commands from our Lord in today's Liturgy.
"God saw all that he had made, and it was very good." (Genesis 1: 31).
Everything God is perfect. God created every human person unique and irrepeatable. My own perfection is unique to me. The perfection of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a singular gift for her alone.
With this insight, it is not impossible to be perfect as our heavenly Father is perfect.
"O God, strength of those who hope in you, graciously hear our pleas,
and, since without you mortal frailty can do nothing, grant us always the help of your grace, that in following your commands we may please you by our resolve and our deeds.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son. Amen." (Collect: Tuesday in the 11th Week).
"Working together, then, we appeal to you not to receive the grace of God in vain. For he says:
“In an acceptable time I heard you, and on the day of salvation I helped you.” (2 Corinthians 6: 1 - 2)
The grace you need to share the Gospel has already been given to you. The Scripture above proves the point without doubt.
The question is: what are you doing with your gifts, with the grace given to you?
Use it or lose it.
Grant us O Lord to follow the example of St Paul and the saints and begin to use our gifts.
"Remember how for these forty years the Lord, your God, has directed all your journeying in the wilderness, so as to test you by affliction, to know what was in your heart: to keep his commandments, or not. He therefore let you be afflicted with hunger." (Deuteronomy 8: 2-3 NABRE).
God is training us as His children.
"Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you encounter various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. And let perseverance be perfect, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." (James 1: 2-3).
" You have also forgotten the exhortation addressed to you as sons:
“My son, do not disdain the discipline of the Lord or lose heart when reproved by him; for whom the Lord loves, he disciplines; he scourges every son he acknowledges.” (Hebrews 12: 5 - 6).
"So whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come." (2 Corinthians 5: 17 NABRE).
Do you feel like a new creation?
There are two creations. The first is from below, from nature. The natural woman or man who has not been born again belongs to this group. The second creation is from above, from the Holy Spirit. The Bible calls this man or woman a new creation. What makes this person new? This person has a new heart, a new mind and a totally new outlook on life. Let us consider the qualities of this new person:
1. Charity
2. Joy
3. Peace
4. Patience
5. Kindness
6. Goodness
7. Generosity
8. Gentleness
9. Faithfulness
10. Modesty
11. Self-control
12. Chastity
O Holy Spirit of Light and Love, may our lives faithfully imitate the life and virtues of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him with the Father and You, Divine Spirit, be honor and glory forever. Amen.
"But we have this precious treasure [the good news about salvation] in [unworthy] earthen vessels [of human frailty], so that the grandeur and surpassing greatness of the power will be [shown to be] from God [His sufficiency] and not from ourselves." (2 Corinthians 4: 7 AMP).
We are chosen, called and qualified by God as messengers of the Gospel not because of our pedigree, education, wealth or any earthly attribute but exactly because of the opposite. God chose to use the weak in order to protect His glory.
O Lord our God, be always our Rock, our Fortress, our Deliverer and our saving Strength. Amen.
"I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter into the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5: 20 NABRE).
Are you a minimalist or one who lives Magis in everything. Magis simply means More. It an attitude of the heart and mind that goes for More in everything and never for the least or minimum. This is a core principle of St Ignatius Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits).
In Matthew 5: 20, Jesus says that the Minimum will never get you into Heaven. A Church law states that you must receive Holy Communion "at least" once a year. The minimalist rejoices and says to himself: "This is great. I can do this."
"Dearest Lord,
teach me to be generous;
teach me to serve You as You deserve;
to give and not to count the cost,
to fight and not to heed the wounds,
to toil and not to seek for rest,
to labour and not to ask for reward
save that of knowing I am doing Your Will." (St Ignatius Loyola).
"Our qualification comes from God, who has indeed qualified us as ministers of a new covenant, not of letter but of spirit; for the letter brings death, but the Spirit gives life." (2 Corinthians 3: 5 - 6 NABRE).
By our Baptism, we are chosen, called and qualified as messengers of God's mighty word. "If God is for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8 : 31).
"O God, from whom all good things come, grant that we, who call on you in our need, may at your prompting discern what is right, and by your guidance do it.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son." (Collect: Wednesday, June 14, 10th Week in Ordinary Time).
"As God is faithful, our word to you is not “yes” and “no.” For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was proclaimed to you by us, Silvanus and Timothy and me, was not “yes” and “no,” but “yes” has been in him." (2 Corinthians 1: 18 - 19 NABRE).
The Scripture teaches that faithfulness is the very essence God. If you are still a Christian today, it is thanks to this truth. Because of your faithfulness O Father, Son and the Holy Spirit, the One Holy, Triune and Undivided Unity, the children whom You redeemed through the precious Blood of Your Son will worship You forever and ever. Amen.
Jesus Christ is our Yes and Amen.
How about us?
"Just say a simple, 'Yes, I will,' or 'No, I won't.' Anything beyond this is from the evil one." (Matthew 5: 37 NLT).
Lord Jesus, help us to shine our lights before others that they may see the good deeds you inspire and glorify Your heavenly Father. Amen.
(Cf Matthew 5: 16).
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and God of all encouragement, who encourages us in our every affliction, so that we may be able to encourage those who are in any affliction with the encouragement with which we ourselves are encouraged by God." (2 Corinthians 1: 3 - 5 NABRE).
If you seek consolation in the Scriptures, the above is one of the best. To reap 100% of the fruit, read the entire gift of the Holy Spirit to the Church today: 2 Corinthians 1: 1 - 7.
Note and understand that in God's grand plan for our salvation, consolation alternates with desolation or suffering. Do not panic. Remember this word of encouragement:
"For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29: 11).
May we always trust and rejoice in Your Divine Providence for us, for it Never Fails. Amen.
"The Lord, the Lord, a God gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in love and fidelity." (Exodus 34: 6 NABRE).
Who is God? Above Scripture verse is the self-revelation of God.
Today is the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity: the eternal, holy and undivided Unity. Three Persons in One God. A most profound mystery. Although I do not understand a bit of this, I believe it absolutely because Jesus Christ revealed it and the Church teaches it as truth.
"Glory to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; to God who is, who was, and who is to come." (Cf Revelation 1: 8)
"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the holy Spirit be with all of you." (2 Corinthians 13: 13).
"He [Jesus] sat down opposite the treasury and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury.
Many rich people put in large sums.
A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents.
Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them,
“Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury.
For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood.” (Mark 12: 41 - 44 RM)
"What return shall I make to the Lord for all that He has done for me?" (Psalm 116: 12)
Who can outdo God in generosity?
This poor widow has experienced God’s faithfulness in provision and protection all the years of her widowhood.
We offer You this, O Lord our God from all that you have given us.
"O God, whose providence never fails in its design, keep from us, we humbly beseech you, all that might harm us and grant all that works for our good. Through Christ our Lord. Amen."
"Praise the LORD, O my soul;
I will praise the LORD all my life; I will sing praise to my God while I live."
Do you know the power of praise?
"The LORD keeps faith forever secures justice for the oppressed,
gives food to the hungry.
The LORD sets captives free."
Do you use the power of praise?
"The LORD gives sight to the blind.
The LORD raises up those who are bowed down; the LORD loves the just.
The LORD protects strangers."
Are you blessed by the power of praise?
"The fatherless and the widow he sustains, but the way of the wicked he thwarts.
The LORD shall reign forever,
your God, O Zion, through all generations! Alleluia." (Psalm 146:1-2, 6-7, 8-9, 9-10 RM)
Do you share the power of praise?
"Jesus replied, “The first is this: ‘Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12: 29 - 31 NABRE).
How do we fulfill these two greatest commandments?
"For the love of God is this, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome, for whoever is begotten by God conquers the world. And the victory that conquers the world is our faith." (1 John 5: 3 - 4).
The Spirit that dwells in us is the guarantee that we are begotten by God.
"Turn to me and have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am alone and poor.
See my lowliness and suffering
and take away all my sins, my God." (Psalm 25: 16, 18 RM).
Once upon a time, when I was down and out, the Holy Spirit gave me the above verses for prayer. I repeated the verses several times a day with loud cries. I cried aloud to God to relieve my illness and poverty. God saw my tears and heard my loud weeping. He had pity on me and put a smile on my face. I went to Church and worshipped Him with a sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving.
"My heart has heard you say, “Come and talk with me.”
And my heart responds, “Lord, I am coming.” (Psalm 27: 8 NLT)
“Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” (Mark 12: 17 NKJV).
What belongs to Caesar?
Work: Monday to Saturday, taxes, civil obedience, etc.
What belongs to God?
Sunday worship and rest, the Ten Commandments, etc.
What does God promise to those who render to Him what belongs to Him?
Pardon, peace, power, purpose, presence, protection, provision.
The express road to abundant life:
"But strive first for the kingdom of God and HIS righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6: 33 NRSV).
"He [the landlord] sent him to them last of all, thinking, ‘They will respect my son." But those tenants said to one another, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours." (Mark 12: 6 - 7 NABRE)
This is one of the saddest parables in the Gospel. Read the whole story in Mark 12: 1 - 12. The ungrateful and grasping tenants had killed and thoroughly abused other messengers before the landlord sent his own Son.
What is the point of the whole story? The incredible and longsuffering nature of God. No human king or landlord could tolerate a fraction of what these malevolent tenants did. While we are thankful for God's patience with our sins, it will be a mistake to think that this time of grace and mercy will last forever.
“Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them,“Receive the holy Spirit." (John 20: 21 - 22 NABRE).
Today is the Solemnity of Pentecost, the Birthday of Mother Church. Happy Birthday dear Mother, ancient and ever young. Mother of billions of children but yet a virgin.
"O God, who by the mystery of today’s great feast sanctify your whole Church in every people and nation, pour out, we pray, the gifts of the Holy Spirit across the face of the earth and, with the divine grace that was at work when the Gospel was first proclaimed, fill now once more the hearts of believers.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever." (Collect on the Feast of Pentecost).
Happy Pentecost dear friends.
"When he entered Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with the soldier who was guarding him." (Acts 28: 16 RM)
Every step of Paul's ministry was planned from A to Z by the LORD and executed by the Holy Spirit. We may call this, the working of Divine Providence in the life of Paul. The protection and provision of Divine Providence operates similarly for everyone who serves the Lord. Nothing is left to chance.
"I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city." (Acts 18: 10).
"But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear. And he rescued me from certain death." (2 Timothy 4:17)
The Acts of the Apostles, a factual history of the early Church ended thus:
"He [Paul] received all who came to him, and with complete assurance and without hindrance he proclaimed the kingdom of God
and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ." (Acts 28: 22). Paul was under house arrest. All things are possible for God.
The Holy Spirit led, guided, and inspired Paul. The Spirit gave him power and wisdom. The same Spirit is available to you and me in the work of Evangelization.
"When he entered Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with the soldier who was guarding him." (Acts 28: 16 RM)
Every step of Paul's ministry was planned from A to Z by the LORD and executed by the Holy Spirit. We may call this, the working of Divine Providence in the life of Paul. The protection and provision of Divine Providence operates similarly for everyone who serves the Lord. Nothing is left to chance.
"I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city." (Acts 18: 10).
"But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear. And he rescued me from certain death." (2 Timothy 4:17)
The Acts of the Apostles, a factual history of the early Church ended thus:
"He [Paul] received all who came to him, and with complete assurance and without hindrance he proclaimed the kingdom of God
and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ." (Acts 28: 22). Paul was under house arrest. All things are possible for God.
The Holy Spirit led, guided, and inspired Paul. The Spirit gave him power and wisdom. The same Spirit is available to you and me in the work of Evangelization.
"Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all my being, bless his holy name.
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits."
Psalm 103 in my opinion is one of the most powerful psalms in the Psalter. In the above verses 1-2, we are asked to bless the holy name of God. The name of God is holy and therefore must not be used in vain. (Exodus 20: 7). This is because the Name of God represents the Person, Power and Presence of God.
"For as the heavens are high above the earth, so surpassing is his kindness toward those who fear him.
As far as the east is from the west, so far has he put our transgressions from us."
(Psalm 103:1-2, 11-12, RM)
Abba Father has indeed blotted out completely our records of sins?
"The Holy Spirit will teach you everything and remind you of all I told you." (John 14: 26).
Pentecost is Sunday. Be prepared. Renew your Baptismal commitment to Jesus.
Friday, June 2nd is the First Friday in June. The Heart of Jesus gushes with springs of Salvation.
"Keep me, O God, for in you I take refuge; I say to the LORD, “My Lord are you.”
O LORD, my allotted portion and my cup, you it is who hold fast my lot."
(Psalm 16: 1-2).
Psalm 16 is one of the Messianic Psalm. The above verses give us an insight into the prayer of Jesus. Do you sense the tenderness and complete dependence in the tone? A clue to how we should pray. The Holy Spirit is the Master of Prayer and invites us into the School of Prayer.
"I bless the LORD who counsels me;
even in the night my heart exhorts me.
I set the LORD ever before me with him at my right hand I shall not be disturbed." (Psalm 16: 5,7-8 RM)
A common experience of people is the inspiration and guidance they receive at some wakeful times during the night. Don’t waste such opportunity. Seek counsel from the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the Source of inspiration and power.
"During those days Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth." (Luke 1: 39 - 40 NABRE)
“Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" (Luke 1: 42 - 43)
We celebrate the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Elizabeth today. Elizabeth filled with the Holy Spirit called Mary "the mother of my Lord."
"Almighty, ever-living God,
who, while the Blessed Virgin Mary was carrying your Son in her womb,
inspired her to visit Elizabeth,
grant us, we pray, that, faithful to the promptings of the Spirit,
we may magnify your greatness
with the Virgin Mary at all times." (Collect in the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary).
We know from the prayer above that Mary was inspired by the Holy Spirit to visit Elizabeth. You may ask: How does the Church know her articles of Faith about Mary? The Holy Spirit leads, inspires and teaches the Church. (John 16: 13).
"Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” (Luke 1: 45).
The faith of Mary reminds us of that of Abraham who believed against hope. (Romans 4: 18)
"During those days Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth." (Luke 1: 39 - 40 NABRE)
“Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" (Luke 1: 42 - 43)
We celebrate the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Elizabeth today. Elizabeth filled with the Holy Spirit called Mary "the mother of my Lord."
"Almighty, ever-living God,
who, while the Blessed Virgin Mary was carrying your Son in her womb,
inspired her to visit Elizabeth,
grant us, we pray, that, faithful to the promptings of the Spirit,
we may magnify your greatness
with the Virgin Mary at all times." (Collect in the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary).
We know from the prayer above that Mary was inspired by the Holy Spirit to visit Elizabeth. You may ask: How does the Church know her articles of Faith on Mary? The Holy Spirit leads and inspires the Church. (John 16: 13).
"Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” (Luke 1: 45).
The faith of Mary reminds us of that of Abraham who believed against hope. (Romans 4: 18)
"Yet I consider life of no importance to me, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to bear witness to the gospel of God’s grace." (Acts 20: 24 NABRE).
What do you desire most in your life? For many people it is long life, health and prosperity. When God asked Solomon to ask for whatever he wants, Solomon chose wisdom and God is pleased. (2 Chronicles 1: 7). Paul chose to accomplish the plan set for him by the Lord Jesus. That is, "to bear witness to the Gospel of God’s grace." (Acts 20: 24). Paul served the Lord with such an admirable singleness of purpose.
Wherever Paul preached, he did not shrink to proclaim the entire plan of God. That is, grace and mercy through Jesus Christ.
“Did you receive the holy Spirit when you became believers?” (Acts 19: 2 NABRE)
When Paul visited Ephesus in his missionary journey, he met a group of disciples and noticed that something was missing in their behavior and articulation of the faith. So Paul asked the above question. How did this group answer Paul?
“We have never even heard that there is a holy Spirit.” (Acts 19: 2).
Are you certain you have the Holy Spirit or do you presume you do? Paul's remedy was quick. "And when Paul laid [his] hands on them, the holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied." (Acts 19: 6).
If you received the Holy Spirit when you became believer, do you know your gifts?
What are the 7 gifts of the Holy Spirit?
1. Wisdom
2. Understanding
3. Counsel
4. Fortitude
5. Knowledge
6. Piety
7. Fear of God
"All these devoted themselves with one accord to prayer, together with some women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers." (Acts 1: 14 NABRE)
Before the Ascension of Jesus, He instructed His own not to leave Jerusalem but to pray and wait for the coming of the Holy Spirit. In the Upper Room, the Apostles, Mary and some women huddled together in prayer as they waited for the Holy Spirit to come as promised by Jesus.
Today is Ascension Sunday, (transferred from Thursday for pastoral reasons). Today is exactly one week to the Solemnity of Pentecost. The Holy Spirit is the dominant theme of the Scripture readings and prayers this coming week. We shall focus today on the gift of Courage, one of the 7 Gifts of the Holy Spirit.
"The Spirit God has given us is no cowardly spirit, but rather one that makes us strong, loving and wise."
(1 Timothy 1:7)
"Goethe, the eminent German philosopher once said, "Be bold and mighty forces will come to your aid." Norman Vincent Peale agreed: "Boldness is the activator of power from the mind."
The Holy Spirit is the Source of inspiration, power and boldness.
Pray for the gift of courage and boldness.
"Amen, amen, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you. Until now you have not asked anything in my name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete." (John 16: 23 - 24 NABRE).
Do you know the pure joy of answered prayer? In my opinion, there is nothing as delightful as the happiness you feel when your prayer is answered.
In this Season of Easter which will end on June 4th with the Solemnity of Pentecost, every Christian has the opportunity to experience the in-filling of the Holy Spirit. The Novena of the Holy Spirit started today, Friday, the 26th of May. It is not too late to join. If you google Pentecost Novena, you will find many to satisfy every taste.
The Holy Spirit is the Abundant life that Jesus spoke about in John 10: 10. In our key Scripture today, (John 16: 23 - 24) Jesus promises to fulfill any request made to the Father in His name. In Luke 11: 13, Jesus made this astonishing statement:
"If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" (Luke 11: 13).
Ask for the Holy Spirit and experience the pure joy of answered prayer and thereafter enjoy Abundant life.
"When a woman is in labor, she is in anguish because her hour has arrived; but when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the pain because of her joy that a child has been born into the world." (John 16: 21 NABRE)
Christian hope never fails.
"Such hope [in God’s promises] never disappoints us, because God’s love has been abundantly poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us." (Romans 5: 5 AMP)
Patience obtains all things.
"Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains." (James 5: 7).
See how the pregnant woman waits patiently for 9 months for her due date.
So if you weep and mourn while the world rejoices, know without a doubt that your grief will become joy. (John 16: 20).
And no one can take away your great joy. (John 16: 22)
"I, the LORD, am with you always, until the end of the world." (Matthew 28: 20 RM)
You may call the above Scripture the gift of the Presence. How do we experience here and now the Presence of Jesus? Let us consider a few of the modes of the Presence of Jesus.
#1. Through the indwelling Holy Spirit.
#2. Through the word of God. When the Gospel is proclaimed during the Eucharistic Liturgy, the Church teaches that Jesus Himself is speaking to His people.
#3. We experience Jesus when we receive Him in the Eucharist. In the Eucharist, Jesus is truly present, Body, Soul and Divinity.
#4. We experience the Presence of Jesus in the poor. When you do some favor to the least of Jesus' brothers and sisters, you do it for Jesus. (Matthew 25: 40)
At the beginning of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is named Emmanuel, a name that means God with us. (Matthew 1: 23). At the end of the Gospel, Jesus promises His disciples the gift of His Presence.
"But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth." (John 16: 13 NABRE).
Has the Spirit of truth guided the Church to all truth? Absolutely. Let us consider five of these truths:
#1. The Creed: The Fathers of the Church met in 325 AD in Nicaea to hammer out the main doctrines of the Church. The Holy Spirit was at work in the Council.
#2. The Cross. No cross. No crown. (Luke 24: 26).
#3. Prayer is a vital necessity. (Luke 18: 1).
#4. Eucharist: "Take and eat; this is my body." (Matthew 26: 26; Mark 14: 22; Luke 22: 19; 1 Corinthians 11: 24) And then, "Do this in memory of me."
#5. The Four Last Things: Death, Judgment, Heaven, Hell. (CCC 1021 - 1022, etc)
"Stir into flame the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands.” (1 Timothy 1: 6)
The Solemnity of Pentecost is June 4, 2017.
“Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you and your household will be saved.” So they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to everyone in his house.... " then he and all his family were baptized at once." (Acts 16: 30 - 32, 33 NABRE).
"I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart, for you have heard the words of my mouth; in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise; I will worship at your holy temple, and give thanks to your name." (Psalm 138: 1 - 2)
"The LORD will complete what he has done for me; your kindness, O LORD, endures forever." (Psalm 138: 7 - 8)
“When the Advocate comes whom I will send you from the Father, the Spirit of truth that proceeds from the Father, he will testify to me. And you also testify, because you have been with me from the beginning." (John 15: 26 NABRE).
Jesus says that His disciples will testify to Him. Testify = Witness. Are you ready for this?
First, how do we testify to Jesus?
By our life and by words. A couple of days ago, we saw a picture of the character of Jesus through the 12 fruits of the Holy Spirit. If you apply those fruits in your daily life, you witness to Jesus. And people notice.
Your lifestyle no matter how perfect it is, may never be enough to close the deal. You must add a critical ingredient. Words! "So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ." (Romans 10: 17 NLT). Yes indeed. You must share the Good News that is Jesus.
The Apostle Peter nails in the argument. Your friends and neighbors notice the peace and joy in your life and wonder why and how. "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." (1 Peter 3: 15).
