Jesus is still speaking through the Scriptures and Magisterium.

"Jesus knew what they were thinking." (Luke 6: 8).

Jesus knew what the Pharisees were thinking in their hearts.  They condemned Him for healing a man with a withered hand on a Sabbath. (Luke 6: 6 - 11).
Will it scare you to know that Jesus knows what you are thinking about everything?

One of the attributes of God that delights my heart is His omniscience.  God knows everything before it happens.
Jesus knew Judas' treason before it happened. He knew Peter's betrayal before it occurred.  After the Resurrection, Jesus is more willing to forgive Peter than for Peter to accept the clemency and forgive himself.

What do you think is the purpose of the Genealogy of Jesus Christ, Son of David and Son of Abraham?  (Matthew 1: 1 - 16)  To confound the likes of Pharisees who know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God? (Matthew 22: 29).

"My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me." (John 10: 27).

Jesus is still speaking through the Sacred Scriptures and Sacred Magisterium.

"One day the evil spirit answered them, "Jesus I know, and Paul I know about, but who are you?"
(Acts 19: 15).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

The Lord sustains the fatherless and the widow.

"My brothers, show no partiality as you adhere to the faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ."
(James 2: 1).

Many RCIA Teams all over the world will be drawing from today's Scriptures to address the topic of Social Justice in their catechetical work.  This is the Scripture the Holy Spirit gives the Church for the 23rd Sunday of Ordinary Time.  The Holy Spirit is not liberal or conservative.  He is simply the Holy Spirit, Lord and Giver of life, the Author of the Sacred Scriptures, the Sanctifier.  The Church is not progressive or traditional. The Church is one, holy, catholic and apostolic.  Where the Spirit leads, the Church follows. With this in mind, let us listen to what the Holy Spirit is saying to the churches this Sunday.

"The God of Jacob keeps faith forever, secures justice for the oppressed, gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets captives free.

"The LORD gives sight to the blind;
the LORD raises up those who were bowed down. The LORD loves the just; the LORD protects strangers.

"The fatherless and the widow the LORD sustains, but the way of the wicked he thwarts. The LORD shall reign forever; your God, O Zion, through all generations.
Alleluia."
(Psalm 146: 7, 8 - 9, 9 10).

Psalm 146, the Responsorial Psalm highlights the themes of the mission of the Messiah.  They are also the themes of the mission of the Church.

"Say to those whose hearts are frightened: Be strong, fear not!
Here is your God, he comes with vindication; With divine recompense he comes to save you."  (Isaiah 35: 4 - 1st Reading).

There are too many insecure and frightened people in the world today.  What can you do to calm their fears?

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Happy Birthday Sweet Mother!

“Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means “God is with us.”  (Matthew 1: 23).

The Universal Church celebrates the Feast of the Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  Mary was chosen, called, prepared and enabled to be the Mother of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Cf Romans 8: 30). Mary said Yes immediately to the Archangel Gabriel.  She did not say:  "Let me ask my husband about this.  I will also like to talk to my mother."  It was this openness to grace that made Mary:  "Blessed among women."  (Cf Luke 1: 45).  And every generation continues to call her blessed. (Luke 1: 48)

According to Matthew the Evangelist, Jesus Christ descended directly from Abraham:
"The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham became the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob........... (Matthew 1: 1 - 2).

After the birth of Jesus, the line of genealogy comes abruptly to an end.
"Eleazar became the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob,  Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Messiah."  (Matthew 1: 15 - 16).

A new genealogy begins from Jesus Son of God and Son of Mary. This genealogy includes you and me as royal sons and daughters.

"Let us celebrate with joy the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary,
for from her arose the sun of justice, Christ our God."  (Entrance Antiphon, Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

How you delight in the LORD.

"Find your delight in the LORD who will give you your heart’s desire."  (Psalm 37: 4).

Our Bible verse for today is taken from the Responsorial Psalm from the Liturgy of Friday in the 22nd Week of Ordinary Time.

Before we tackle how we can find our delight in the Lord, we want to know what "delight" means. The dictionary defines "delight" by example thus:   "to make (someone) very happy : to give (someone) great pleasure or satisfaction."

We can find our delight in the Lord by being happy in the Lord. We can enjoy friendship with God.  Do you enjoy serving the Lord? I see here the idea of companionship.  Before the Fall, God and Adam enjoyed  walks together in Paradise.  Moses enjoyed friendship with God and talked with God as one friend to another.

Mary sings:  “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior."  (Luke 1: 46 - 47).

Do you enjoy praying, reading the Bible? These are key activities that cement friendship with God. Do you like hanging out in Churches?  The Sanctuary is a place where the presence of God is felt.

"Delight yourself in the Lord,
And He will give you the desires and petitions of your heart."  (Psalm 37: 4 AMP).
Remember: God knows exactly what you need and when you need it.

Constantly seek your happiness in the Lord, and the Lord promises to give you your heart's desire. 

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus on the First Friday of September.

September 7, 2018 - First Friday in September.

The 12 Promises of the Sacred Heart of Jesus:  Jesus promised 12 special favors to all those who will honor His Sacred Heart especially on the First Friday of every month.  In the 9th month of the year 2018, we look at Promise #9.

#9.  "I will bless the homes in which the image of My Sacred Heart shall be exposed and honored."

Do you have an image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in a prominent place in your home? Are you ashamed to displace it? Or do you consider it a childish devotion?
"Jesus replied, "Your mistake is that you don't know the Scriptures, and you don't know the power of God." (Matthew 22: 29).

Jesus Christ 100% God and 100 % Man is proud of His human heritage. He wants His brethren to be reminded of this.  So Jesus mandated His image to be rendered by an artist for the Sacred Heart and Divine Mercy devotions. The Church approved these devotions and images.

Patronize the ministry of the Catholic Bookstore by purchasing these images there.

Honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus this Friday by attending Holy Mass.

For the 12 Promises of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, click the link below:

http://sfjweb.com/?q=content/sacred-heart-12-promises

Seekfirstcommunity.com

We worked hard but accomplished nothing.

“Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.”  (Luke 5: 10).

Today's Gospel shows how Jesus called His first disciples.  There are plenty of lessons for everyone.

"After he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.” (Luke 5: 4).

Where you are and what you are doing now is no accident. You are where you are meant to be.  Jesus sees you.  He knows all about your successes and frustrations.

Jesus tested Simon, a seasoned fisherman to do something that professional fishermen would consider absurd.
"Simon said in reply, “Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command I will lower the nets.”  (Luke 5: 5 - 6).

Mary said to the servants at the first miracle at Cana: “Do whatever he tells you.”  (John 2: 5).  Would you do ridiculous things if Jesus asks you to?
Remembering Peter and the miraculous draught of fish and the servants at the Wedding at Cana would be a great inspiration at your moment of testing.  This sacred memory will be grace to anyone when such opportunity comes. It also helps greatly to know who Jesus is:
"The earth is the Lord’s and all it holds, the world and those who dwell in it."  (Psalm 24: 1).  Jesus is the Lord of the earth.

“Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.”  (Luke 5:  8).  Most of us will react like Peter in the presence of manifest holiness and power.
Let not thoughts of your unworthiness discourage you.  Remember this:
"And those he predestined he also called; and those he called he also justified; and those he justified he also glorified."  (Romans 8: 30).

"Lord Jesus, You came to set the world on fire with the good news, Your Gospel. You prayed that its flames would race through our hearts. Send Your Holy Spirit upon us to give us the courage to spread the Good News of Your burning love for us.  May all our hearts be open to change as the light of Your love and message reaches every corner of Your holy Church. May it chase away the darkness of sin and lead even those most distanced from You back into Your loving arms.
We pray to You, Lord Jesus through Mary Your Mother whose plea You will never refuse.  Amen."
(Office of Evangelization. Archdiocese of NY).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Not many people appear to be looking for Jesus.

"The people were looking for him." [Jesus] (Luke 4: 42).

Why was everyone looking for Jesus?  Because He feeds them, heals them and teaches them?  Much more than that.  They are irresistibly drawn to Jesus as iron particles are drawn to a magnet.  Historians say that Rome from its earliest history as the See of St Peter attracts tourists.  Spiritual gurus say that holiness draws people to the holy one in the same manner.

Today, not many people appear to be attracted to Jesus.  On the surface, they appear to be more attracted to money, pleasure, leisure, spots.  This is just on the surface.   St Augustine who is great with words summarized the whole of the Bible on human longing thus:  "O God, thou hast made us for Thyself and our hearts are restless until they rest in Thee."

How do we know that St Augustine is correct?  Today it is:  Addiction. Addiction. Addiction.  Nothing will ever satisfy the heart of man except God who stamped His DNA on man when He created Adam.

My friend, where do you fit into this picture?  Jesus says:
“I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.”   (Luke 4: 43).

Jesus has turned over this great Enterprise of evangelization to you and me.
"For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building."  (1 Corinthians 3: 9).

"Why have you been standing here all day long doing nothing?’
“Because no one has hired us,’ they answered.
“He said to them, ‘You also go and work in my vineyard." (Matthew 20: 6 - 7).

You are hired.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Why is His word so powerful?

“What is there about his word?" (Luke 4: 36).

The surprised people of Capernaum asked after Jesus cast out an evil spirit with one word. The answer to their question is simple.  What is there about the word of Jesus? It is the word of God. God is inside His word.

Who else felt the power of this word?
"The centurion replied, "Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed."  (Matthew 8: 8).

Have you ever asked Jesus to say one word and heal any area of your life?

"For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out.”  (Luke 4: 36).

A father has authority over his children.  He exercises this authority through his words. Does the word of God have authority over you?

"Martha had a sister named Mary. Mary sat at the feet of Jesus and listened to all He said."  (Luke 10: 39). Mary wanted the words of Jesus to have authority over her. So she listened attentively to every word of Jesus.  (Cf Luke 4: 32).
You can do the same.

One of the most creative words in the Bible is Mercy. The word "mercy" occurs 276 times in the Bible. This is a magic word that the Heart of God cannot resist. Everyone that approaches Jesus in the Gospel and pleads for mercy receives mercy instantly.  Listen to the number of times "mercy" is used in Holy Mass.  We hit God at His softest spot.  How many times do you use mercy in your prayers?

Including the very words of God makes our prayers more effective.

"Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I cry to you all the day long.
O Lord, you are good and forgiving,
full of mercy to all who call to you." (Psalm 86: 3,5).

"The LORD is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger and of great kindness.
The LORD is good to all and compassionate toward all his works."  (Psalm 145: 8 - 9).

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us and the whole world.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

The Manifesto for the Kingdom

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.  He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, and to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord.”  (Luke 4: 18 - 19).

Jesus Christ launched His campaign for the Kingdom of God appropriately in His native town, Nazareth.  Everyone in the synagogue including you and me thought they heard this manifesto (Luke 4: 18) somewhere, sometime.  Jesus is quoting from a familiar passage of Isaiah 61 about the Messiah and His mission.  The manner in which He read the passage and concluding words:  “Today this scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.” (Luke 4: 21) startled everyone in the synagogue.

What does this living word of God mean for you and for me today? We too have been chosen, called and anointed by the Holy Spirit.  Anointed for what?  Anointed to accomplish a purpose in life with the power of the Holy Spirit.

But you may object:  I am too old. I am too poor. I am uneducated. I am too sick. I am too young.  The Lord Jesus answers:  “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.”

Faced with this answer, Paul says "I will rather boast most gladly of my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may dwell with me.  Therefore, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and constraints, for the sake of Christ; for when I am weak, then I am strong." 
(2 Corinthians 12: 9 - 10).

Do you trust Jesus or do you prefer to trust your own understanding?  (Proverbs 3: 5 - 6).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

I sympathize and pray for Archbishop Viganó

Why I sympathize and pray for Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganó

Archbishop Viganó has succumbed like most of us to the great temptation of today:

"Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect."  (Romans 12: 2).

He sowed the wind. Now he is reaping the whirlwind.  (Hosea 8: 7).

Many prelates, priests and lay people who have stopped reading and believing the word of God, who have stopped praying believe that journalists and the ways of the world are wiser than the Scriptures and the teachings of the Catholic Church.  Pope Francis prophetically writes about this below:

"Inner strength, as the work of grace, prevents us from becoming carried away by the violence that is so much a part of life today, because grace defuses vanity and makes possible meekness of heart. The saints do not waste energy complaining about the failings of others; they can hold their tongue before the faults of their brothers and sisters, and avoid the verbal violence that demeans and mistreats others. Saints hesitate to treat others harshly; they consider others better than themselves"
(cf. Phil 2:3).  Gaudete et Exultate #116.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

You can feel secure about your gifts.

"Dearest brothers and sisters:  All good giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no alteration or shadow caused by change."  (James 1: 17).

I have received emails that have in the subject line: "Information that you can use now."  The Scripture from James 1: 17 is Scripture that we can use right here and right now.  In the hustle and bustle of life,  we need to pause to consider the source of the blessings we enjoy: good health, family, great job, strong bank account, etc.  How do you feel when you read that all your blessings actually come from God?
Sacred Scripture wants us to count our blessings:

"Bless the Lord, my soul; all my being, bless his holy name!
Bless the Lord, my soul; and do not forget all his gifts, Who pardons all your sins, and heals all your ills, Who redeems your life from the pit, and crowns you with mercy and compassion, Who fills your days with good things, so your youth is renewed like the eagle’s."  (Psalm 103: 1 - 5).

If every good gift we enjoy comes from God, then we should feel very secure about the gifts we have. (Cf Romans 11: 29).

"Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them."  (John 13: 17).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Congratulations My good and faithful servant.

"Jesus told his disciples this parable:
“A man going on a journey called in his servants and entrusted his possessions to them.
To one he gave five talents; to another, two; to a third, one—to each according to his ability."  (Matthew 25: 14 - 15).

Have you ever met a human being with zero gift of time, talent or treasure?  No! God gives to each human being a gift of some time, talent or treasure "each according to his ability."  That is, each according to his predestined purpose.

No matter how long it takes the Master to come, be assured that there will be settling of accounts sooner or later.
"After a long time the master of those servants came back and settled accounts with them." 
(Matthew 25: 19).

Those servants who have made good yields on the investment will be congratulated and promoted. Losers will be severely reprimanded and punished.
"Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy."  (Matthew 25: 21).

To be faithful is to be steadfast, constant in a task. Mary is faithful to prayer.  Mother St Teresa of Kolkata says that God does not expect us to be successful but expects us to be faithful.

"Consider your own calling, brothers and sisters."  (1 Corinthians 1: 26).
Who are you before the Master employed you?  Never forget why you were chosen, called and anointed.

Although we started off being nobodies and having nothing, we have been richly endowed, resourced and placed in good positions to yield rich harvest for our Master.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

I do not know you, madam.

"Amen, I say to you, I do not know you."  (Matthew 25: 12).

These are the words of the bridegroom [Jesus] to the Five Foolish Virgins. God forbid that anyone of us will hear this sharpest of rebukes on the Last Day. Yet the Foolish Virgins behaved very foolishly.  They were duly warned.  Be prepared.  The Bridegroom has a reputation for being delayed. Expect this. They failed to heed the warning.

Here is another warning:
"Everyone who acknowledges me before others I will acknowledge before my heavenly Father.  But whoever denies me before others, I will deny before my heavenly Father."  (Matthew 10: 32 - 33).

Those who are perishing call such warnings foolishness but to us who are being saved it is the wisdom and mercy of God.  (Cf 1 Corinthians 1: 18).

"Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.”  (John 18: 37).
Do you belong to the truth? Do you recognize the voice of the Good Shepherd?

"Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour."  (Matthew 25: 13).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

You also must be prepared.

"Jesus said to His disciples: 'Stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come."  (Matthew 24: 42).

Two lessons I learned as a Boy Scout have served me well:
#1. "Be Prepared."
#2.  "Fortune favors the brave."  Or "Fortune favors the prepared mind."

Thank You Jesus for these nuggets of wisdom that have blessed us so much in life.  Make us ready and well prepared every moment for everything as we joyfully wait for Your coming.

Jesus wants us to be prepared for His coming anytime.
"So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come."
(Matthew 24: 44).

St Augustine writes:  "If you pray well, you live well. If you live well, you die well. If you die well, all is well."  Prayer is core to all preparation.
My brethren, "What profit is there for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?" (Mark 8: 36).

"My master is long delayed." 
(Matthew 24:  48). Wrong attitude!

Here is a comforting promise:
"He [God] will keep you firm to the end, irreproachable on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.  God is faithful, and by him you were called to fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord."  (1 Corinthians 1: 8 8 - 9).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

I grant you half of my kingdom.

 “I will grant you whatever you ask of me, even to half of my kingdom.”  (Mark 6: 23).

This is the boast of King Herod, a mere mortal.  Do you see why it is said that power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely? 

Here is the promise of the Father to His Son Jesus:
"Ask it of me, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance, and, as your possession, the ends of the earth."  (Psalm 2: 8).
Is Herod playing god?

The young princess who delighted Herod by her dance knew how to manipulate men.
“I want you to give me at once on a platter the head of John the Baptist.”  (Mark 6: 25).
This is what her mother wanted in order to remove once and for all the menace of John the Baptist.

"So he [Herod] promptly dispatched an executioner with orders to bring back his head. He went off and beheaded him in the prison." (Mark 6: 27).

The true story:  God,  willed that Saint John the Baptist should go ahead of His Son both in his birth and in his death.  The martyrdom of John the Baptist is in accordance with the gracious plan of God.

"John answered and said:
He must increase; but I must decrease."  (John 3: 27, 30). He sacrificed his life completely for Jesus.  We too must decrease if Christ will increase in us.

"And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna.... Even all the hairs of your head are counted.  So do not be afraid."  (Matthew 10: 28, 30 - 31).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

The man who said - Receive what you are and become what you receive.

"Therefore, brothers, stand firm and hold fast to the traditions that you were taught, either by an oral statement or by a letter of ours."  (2 Thessalonians 2: 15).

The Church celebrates today the feast of St Augustine, the son of St Monica whose feast day is August 27th.  Our key Scripture teaches about holding fast to traditions both oral and written.  As Bishop, Church Father and Doctor of the Church, Augustine knows a great deal about Sacred Scripture, Traditions and Church authority.

Augustine had great passion for Jesus, truth and the Church.  He evangelized relentlessly by preaching and writing. Some of his best known words are:
"O Lord, You have made us for Yourself. Our hearts are restless until they rest in You."  How true!
On the Eucharist, Augustine writes:
"Receive what you are and become what you receive."  Great challenge but this is the Christian vocation.  To become like Jesus.

Saints Monica and Augustine pray for us.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

When you are under trials, do not reduce your prayers and good works.

"We ought to thank God always for you, brothers, as is fitting, because your faith flourishes ever more."  (2 Thessalonians 1: 3).

St Paul congratulates the Thessalonian Christians on their growing faith. Very interesting.  But how does St Paul know that their faith is flourishing?
Because of their "endurance and faith in all the persecutions and afflictions" they experience. (2 Thessalonians 1: 4).

So when you endure in your prayers, word of God and good works under afflictions and persecutions, rejoice because your faith is surely growing.  If you give up your practice of faith under God’s afflicive providences, you put your faith in reverse gear. Don't do it.

"This is evidence of the just judgment of God, so that you may be considered worthy of the kingdom of God for which you are suffering."  (2 Thessalonians 1: 5).

St James joined Paul in teaching the great lesson of perseverance under trial:
"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 - 4).

So brothers and sisters,  "Endure your trials as “discipline”; God treats you as sons. For what “son” is there whom his father does not discipline?"  (Hebrews 12: 7).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Do you also want to leave?

"Jesus then said to the Twelve, “Do you also want to leave?”  (John 6: 67).

Today thousands are leaving the Church of Jesus Christ, the Church of the Eucharist and heading to New Age, Yoga, Eastern Mystery Religions, so-called non-denominational churches but in reality denominational churches of the pastors.

There is no surprise about all this because "Jesus knew from the beginning the ones who would not believe and the one who would betray him."  (John 6: 64).

But those sanctified with faith by the Holy Spirit will respond like Peter: “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.  We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.”  (John 6: 68 - 69).

I too have come to know and believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the Way, the Truth and the Life.  I raise up my hand and declare with Joshua:
“If it does not please you to serve the Lord, decide today whom you will serve, the gods your fathers served beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose country you are now dwelling.
As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”  (Joshua 24: 15).

"Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters." (Matthew 12: 30).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Practice what you preach.

"They preach but they do not practice."  (Matthew 23: 3).

Jesus tackles a key problem of the scribes and Pharisees in the Gospel of today.  He is not castigating the necessary work of all preachers, evangelists, teachers of the word, catechists, parents etc.  His message is pointed and can be understood by a child.  When you practice what you preach, your message is so much authentic and effective.  No missionary dares overlook this lesson.  The people you evangelize are watching you closely. They have one question in their minds:  "Is he real?"

Let us consider some of the things we teach and preach that we should practice:
Faith, patience, kindness, goodness, humility, chastity, mercy, etc.  All these are qualities of Jesus.

How do we practice Mercy for example?  Remember the ABC of Mercy?
Ask for Mercy.
Be Merciful.
Completely trust Jesus for Mercy.

Sounds simple? Yes indeed. God Never refuses Mercy to anyone who asks.  Remember the steward who owes his master over $100 million and could not repay him?  The Master [Jesus] said to the servant:
"You wicked servant! I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to." (Matthew 18: 32).
No matter how much debt/sin we have, God is willing to forgive us everything, always and everywhere.
He wants us to be merciful to people who owes us much less.

So brothers and sisters,
Believe what you hear/read from the word of God.
Teach what you believe.
Practice what you teach.
And you will hear from the Master:
"Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy."  (Matthew 25: 21).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

My Eyes are always on you.

"Jesus answered [Nathaniel] and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.”  (John 1: 48).

The astonished Nathaniel exclaimed that whoever could do this is the Son of God and the King of Israel.  But we Christians, sons and daughters of God know that Jesus is aware of where we are this moment and every moment.  He knows our thoughts and our desires.  He is aware of all our predicaments, our needs right to minutest one. David writes in the Psalms that we cannot hide from God. (Cf Psalm 139: 7 - 12). Don't even try.

Aren't you super delighted to know that the all-pervasive Big Eye of God is following you everywhere.  All for your good and not for your disaster. (Cf Jeremiah 29: 11).  He who promised "Behold I am with you always" (Matthew 28: 20) can never deceive nor be deceived.  He urges you to cast all your cares on Him and promises to sustain you because He cares for you. (1 Peter 5: 7). He is worthy of your trust.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Everything is ready. Come on to the party.

“The kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son."  (Matthew 22: 2).

Remember that the Church is the seed of the Kingdom of God on earth.  Remember too that the wedding feast is the image of the Eucharist and the King here is Jesus.

The King cries out: “Behold, I have prepared my banquet, my calves and fattened cattle are killed, and everything is ready; come to the feast." (Matthew 22: 4).

A heart felt invitation is issued to the friends of the King.  See what happens:

"Some ignored the invitation and went away, one to his farm, another to his business.  The rest laid hold of his servants, mistreated them, and killed them."  (Matthew 22: 5 - 6).

Not only did many of the invited guests reject the invitation contemptuously but to add grave insult to injury, some guests mistreated the messengers and killed them. The chosen and invited guests have proved themselves very unworthy of the great honor done to them.

Sunday is the day Christians are asked to leave work and worldly past times and come and worship the Lord.  How sad it is to read that less than 30% accept the invitation. What is going on?

"Many are invited, but few are chosen.”  (Matthew 22: 14).
Lord Jesus, help us to be the ones who are chosen.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

The Queen stands at Your right hand..

"O God, who made the Mother of your Son to be our Mother and our Queen, graciously grant that, sustained by her intercession, we may attain in the heavenly Kingdom the glory promised to your children.
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 Memorial of the Queenship of Mary).

The Church celebrates today the feast of Mary as Queen of Heaven and earth.

Jesus in His public ministry talked about the Kingdom of God more than any other subject. Indeed, in the great prayer, Our Father, Jesus inserted "Thy Kingdom Come!" A reminder that the key desire of His heart should be ours too.

Why did Jesus crown His Mother Queen?  Jesus is the King of the Universe. Where there is a king, there is a kingdom. Where there is a kingdom, there are subjects, laws and needs. Jesus is not just a King but also our able High Priest, who intercedes for us constantly before the throne of His Father. Mary is Queen to intercede before His Son Jesus and to give us confidence to approach the throne of grace and mercy.  In fact, the saints in Heaven enjoy all the promised blessings of Paradise while at the same time interceding for their loved ones on earth.  This does not diminish the status of Jesus Christ as our great High Priest. Jesus is not jealous of our role as intercessors. It is His gracious Will.

Mary, Mother and Queen pray for us.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

You will receive a hundred times more.

"And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for the sake of my name will receive a hundred times more, and will inherit eternal life."  (Matthew 19: 29).

What have you given up for Jesus?
What price have you paid for discipleship? What daily sacrifices do you make as a follower of Jesus?

The promise made by Jesus in Matthew 19: 29 is exciting.  What is your response?

People who are generous in responding to the invitation of Jesus experience true peace and security, joy and fulfillment.  They begin to relish the delights of eternal right here and right now.

"Jesus Christ became poor although he was rich so that by his poverty you might become rich."  (2 Corinthians 8: 9).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Impossible to love God and mammon.

"When the young man heard this statement, he went away sad, for he had many possessions."  (Matthew 19: 22).

What did the rich young man heard that caused him such emotional turmoil?

“If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”  (Matthew 19: 21).

Being rich and having many possessions is not bad.  What is rebuked here is having attachment to anything.  It is a sin against the First Commandment: “You shall have no other gods before me."  (Exodus 20: 3). Any unhealthy love for any creature is considered idolatry.

What are you attached to?
Money, possessions, comfort, dog?
"For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be."  (Matthew 6: 21).

Jesus also warned us:  "Do not work for food that perishes but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you."  (John 6: 27).

What shall you do to be free of attachment to creatures?  Ask Abba Father to prune you gently.
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower.  He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and every one that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit."  (John 15: 1 - 2).

Blessed are they who are pruned of their attachments, they shall yield abundant fruits for the Kingdom of God. O God, You made us for Yourself, may our heart be restless until it rests in You.  Amen.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

My flesh is true food.

"Jesus said to the crowds:
“I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.”  (John 6: 51).

Once again we savor the Bread of life Discourse.  This teaching is so important for the life of the Christian and the Church that Mother Church is never tired of serving this menu again and again.

"For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him."  (John 6: 55 - 56).

Those who come to the Table of the Lord must leave their lofty learning behind. This Food is for the simple of heart, the childlike, the lowly.

“Let whoever is simple turn in here;
to the one who lacks understanding, she says,
Come, eat of my food, and drink of the wine I have mixed! Forsake foolishness that you may live; advance in the way of understanding.” (Proverbs 9: 4 - 6).

What is your response to Jesus? Come to the Table and "taste and see the goodness of the Lord."  (Psalm 34: 9).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Jesus who did not sin died for the sins of the world.

"Only the one who sins shall die!"  (Ezekiel 18: 4).
The word of the Lord.

"But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die."  (Genesis 3: 3).

In today's first Reading, the Prophet Ezekiel corrects the mistaken notion of the People of God on sin and responsibility.  The people believed that they suffer for the sins of their fathers and mothers.  O no, says the Lord God.  "Only the one who sins shall die!"  (Ezekiel 18: 4).

The wages of sin continue to be death. (Romans 6: 23).  But God has no pleasure in the death of anyone.  He wants everyone of His children to be converted to Him and live!  (Ezekiel 18: 32).

"A clean heart create for me, O God;
and a steadfast spirit renew within me.
Cast me not out from your presence, and your Holy Spirit take not from me."  (Psalm 51: 12 - 13).

"Holy Father and Lord, You willed that Christ Your Son should be the price of our salvation. Give us grace so to live that through sharing his sufferings we may be strengthened by the power of his resurrection..." (Prayer at Vespers, Friday, 19th Week of Ordinary Time).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Is divorce permitted?

“Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause whatever?”  (Matthew 19: 3).

Is divorce permitted? The Pharisees asked Jesus.  Jesus used this question to teach us God's original plan for marriage between one man and one woman.  God joined man and woman together to become one for life.
If this is so, what is the reason for the prevalent heart-wrenching divorces? Hardness of heart or sin is the cause, Jesus answered.  This is how the Church explains the progression of the hardness of heart:

"The harmony in which they had found themselves, thanks to original justice, is now destroyed: the control of the soul's spiritual faculties over the body is shattered; the union of man and woman becomes subject to tensions, their relations henceforth marked by lust and domination. Harmony with creation is broken: visible creation has become alien and hostile to man. Because of man, creation is now subject "to its bondage to decay".Finally, the consequence explicitly foretold for this disobedience will come true: man will "return to the ground", for out of it he was taken. Death makes its entrance into human history."  (CCC 400).

What sin has torn asunder, Jesus Christ has reconciled in His body by giving man and woman the means and tools to live in harmony.  The Church accompanies the married couples on their journey of faith with the Sacraments: Matrimony, Eucharist, Reconciliation. The Church provides a number of effective tools as aid to harmony: marriage preparation classes, counseling, Cursillo, Encounters, etc.

Like any vocation, it is impossible for marriage to work outside the framework of sacraments, tools and resources provided by the Providence of God for the institution today.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

I forgave you your entire debt because you begged Me.

"The servant fell down, did him  homage, and said, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back in full.’  Moved with compassion the master of that servant let him go and forgave him the loan."  (Matthew 18: 26 - 27).

The above verses are from the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant.
Jesus taught us in the Lord's Prayer: Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." (Matthew 6: 12).

Forgiveness or Mercy is at heart of the Gospel.  Not only did Jesus teach this message every opportunity but He demonstrated it practically from the Cross.  He forgave the Good Thief.  And while still experiencing the terrible agony of the Cross, He forgave everyone who played a part to place Him on the Cross including yourself and me.

Some people think that to forgive a grievous offense is so hard. Perhaps it is.  Can you try this prayer every morning?
"Father, forgive all my sins.  I forgive completely everyone who has ever offended me.  I pray you grant the grace to all those I have ever offended to forgive me and release me from their anger. I ask for this in the Name of Your Son Jesus who commands us to forgive."

"You wicked servant! I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to."  (Matthew 18: 32).

Remember the ABC of Mercy:
Ask for Mercy.
Be Merciful.
Completely trust Jesus for Mercy.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Rejoice O Most Blessed Virgin Mary!

"The Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name."  (Luke 1: 49).

The Mighty God has truly done great things for Mary.  The Church throughout the world rejoices today as she celebrates the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  Let us consider four of the stupendous things the Mighty God has done for Mary:

#1 The Immaculate Conception:  Mary, chosen before the foundation of the world to be the Mother of Jesus was preserved from the curse of Original Sin. She was born without the taint of sin.
#2 The Annunciation: The Archangel Gabriel brought the message of salvation to Mary. Mary said YES!
#3  The Assumption:  At the end of her earthly life, Mary is taken up to heaven as chorus of angels exulted.
#4  Coronation of Mary as Queen of Heaven and earth.

Mary was declared by the Archangel Gabriel, messenger of God to be "full of grace." (Luke 1: 28).  Mary in the Magnificat prophesied "Behold, from now on will all ages call me blessed." (Luke 1: 48).  Billions of Hail Marys are said every day proclaiming Mary blessed.

On the occasion of the Assumption of Mary into Heaven, let the Church rejoice with all the angels and saints in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Who is a little child?

“Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 18: 3).

We have noted the magnificent obsession of Jesus for the wonderful place and state He calls the Kingdom of God.
“No eye has seen, no ear has heard,
and no mind has imagined
what God has prepared for those who love him.” (1 Corinthians 2: 9).

Throughout His public ministry, Jesus laid out the qualifying principles for entrance into this Kingdom.  We shall look at one today:  A childlike attitude.  What is this?

+ Innocence (sinlessness)
+ Simple
+ Humble
+ Trusting
+  Forgiving
+  Living here and now

“What do you mean?” exclaimed Nicodemus. “How can an old man go back into his mother’s womb and be born again?”  (John 3: 4).

"Jesus replied, “I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit."  (John 3: 5).

Here is the secret! The Holy Spirit must affect the transformation.  If this transformation is not completed during your allotted life span, it will be finished in Purgatory, the Church teaches.

"It is not my heavenly Father’s will that even one of these little ones should perish." (Matthew 18: 14).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Why did the disciples forget 3 predictions of the Passion and Resurrection of Jesus?

"As they [disciples] were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is to be handed over to men, and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day.” (Matthew 17:  22 - 23).

How is it possible that the disciples of Jesus could ever forget such a prediction? If you are in the inner circle of the leadership of an important person, can you forget this type of warning from your leader?  The disciples understood clearly what Jesus meant because their "hearts were filled with sorrow and dread."  (Matthew 17: 23 TLB).

Consider also two other predictions of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus:
"From that time on, Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer greatly from the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised." (Matthew 16: 21).

And a 3rd prediction:
"Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and hand him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day.” (Matthew 20: 18 - 19).

Why did the disciples forget 3 predictions of the Passion and Resurrection of Jesus?  Why were they so unprepared for the gory events of Good Friday?  Why was their initial reaction to the news of the Resurrection complete unbelief?

Jesus predicted His Second Coming.  Will the Church remember? Will Christians be ready?  If Jesus knocks on your door tonight, how do you welcome Him?

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Take my life, O Lord!

"This is enough, O Lord! Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors.”  (1 Kings 19: 4).

Elijah, the great Prophet is in big trouble. Jezebel has placed a price on his head. This provoked a depression and a burn out.  Can this happen to a great man of God? It can happen to anyone.  It happened to Jeremiah, John the Baptist. From the Cross, Jesus cried out:  ""Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" which means "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?"  (Matthew 27: 46).

The mystery of Divine Providence is profound. But God never forsakes His servant.  And He brought food to the weary Elijah.
“Get up and eat!”  (1 Kings 19: 5)
"Get up and eat!" reminds us of "Take and eat."  (Matthew 26: 26). In the later, the food is the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.

“Get up and eat or the journey will be too much for you!”  (1 Kings 19: 7).
The food that Elijah was offered and the Eucharist has this thing in common:  Both are food for the Journey.

"Elijah got up, ate, and drank; then strengthened by that food, he walked forty days and forty nights to the mountain of God, Horeb."  (1 Kings 19: 8).

Jesus offers us the living bread that comes down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that He gives is His flesh for the life of the world.”  (Cf John 6: 51).

Everyone is invited to taste and see that the Lord is good. How happy is the man who trusts in Jesus (Cf Psalm 34: 8).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

It is God's plan that we learn to wait.

"Then the LORD answered me and said: Write down the vision
clearly upon the tablets, so that one can read it readily.
For the vision still has its time,
presses on to fulfillment, and will not disappoint; If it delays, wait for it, it will surely come, it will not be late."  (Habakkuk 2: 2 - 3).

Recently a young friend shared with me a story about a woman who is waiting for Mr Right. She is now 56.   Habakkuk 2: 2 - 3 is one of the great Scriptures on waiting for God's timing.  Habakkuk's lesson is timeless.
It proclaims the truth that God is faithful to all His promises. It teaches the profound mystery of Divine Providence.  It affirms that the Razor Precision Providence of God is Never Late!  Mind you, God knows exactly what you need and when you need it.  God is like a Super GPS taking us to our destination. (Cf Jeremiah 29: 11).

"They trust in you who cherish your name, for you forsake not those who seek you, O LORD."  (Psalm 9: 11).
God will never forget those who trust Him.
"The rash man has no integrity; but the just man, because of his faith, shall live."  (Habakkuk 2: 4).

In the Gospel of today, Jesus our Teacher points to the infinite value of even a tiny grain of faith:

"Amen, I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”  (Matthew 17: 20).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

God loves a cheerful giver.

JESUS SAID TO HIS DISCIPLES: "Amen, amen, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit."  (John 12: 24).

When we are ready to submit our puny will to the gracious will of God, everything in life becomes possible.  In God's will is our peace and prosperity.  Why do we struggle to have our way in everything?  There must be a dying to our will in order to live fully the life that Christ the Redeemer died for us all.

Whatever it is O man, surrender your will to God and live. "God loves a cheerful giver."  (2 Corinthians 9: 7). Trust, Surrender and Obey.

"Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there also will my servant be. The Father will honor whoever serves me."  (John 12:  26).

Jesus our Leader and Captain asks us to follow where He leads.

When you follow Jesus, you shall not fear an ill report; your heart is steadfast, trusting the Lord. Your heart is tranquil, without fear, till at last you look down on his foes.  (Cf Psalm 112: 7 - 8).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Who is Jesus?

“Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” (Matthew 16: 13).

The mystery of Jesus.
Who is He?
Whence did He come?
Why did He come?

These and similar questions exercised the minds of the disciples of Jesus and the Jewish leaders who watched with amazement the ministry of Jesus Christ.  The time has come at last to confront these questions.  Jesus took the initiative and asked His disciples.

"They replied, “Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”  (Matthew 16: 14).

Jesus apparently not satisfied with generalities asked pointedly:

“But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”  (Matthew 16: 15 - 16).

Then Jesus revealed an astonishing truth:
“Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father."  (Matthew 16: 17).

Many people in the Church today have stopped believing.  The honest ones are those who have stopped coming to Church.  There is a phenomenal problem of faith in the world today.  Jesus is saying in Matthew 16: 17 that faith is a gift of God.  Those who have stopped asking and practicing their faith may be losing their faith.

 “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you."  (Matthew 7: 7 NLT).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

O woman, great is your boldness!

"Then Jesus said to her in reply, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed from that hour."  (Matthew 15: 28).

Blessed are the desperate, for they shall have their miracles.
O man, your extremity is God's opportunity. Know too that your security is Satan's opportunity.

The Canaanite woman whose daughter was tormented by a demon understands what faith is all about. True faith is driven by desperate need.  Mother Angelica, the EWTN founder taught me that faith is boldness.  Be bold with God's promises. Be bold with the inspirations of the Holy Spirit.

Gross materialism in the culture gives us a false sense of security.  Your security is Satan's opportunity.  The Canaanite woman's desperation is an opportunity for Jesus.

How many things have you prayed and cried? God hears the cry of the poor.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

In their fear, they thought Jesus was a ghost.

“Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.”  (Matthew 14: 27).

The disciples of Jesus were terrified when they saw Jesus walking toward them in the foaming sea.  They thought it was a ghost. To calm them down, Jesus assured them that it was He.

When our heart is gripped by whatever fear, we need to remember those calming words of Jesus.  Can you draw money from an empty account? To withdraw money, you must first deposit funds.  It is when things are calm that you fill your mind with the word of God.

On the subject of fear, St John Chrysostom, a 4th/5th century Church Father and Doctor of the Church who admired St Paul the Apostle said that Paul was inimitable. He added that Paul was so bold and fearless that even the devil was afraid of Paul.  We can all say that Jesus, the God-Man is fearless and the devil is terrified by His Name. And Jesus is the source of the fearlessness of every Christian.

Here are a few of the Scriptures that help me to fight fear:

#1 Deuteronomy 31:  8
"It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”

#2  Psalm 27:1
"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

#3  Isaiah 41:10
"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

"And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
(Matthew 28:20 NLT).

I like this petite but powerful Scripture:
"Fear is useless; what is needed is trust."  (Luke 8: 50; Mark 5: 36).

And here is word of wisdom and courage from the Carmelite mystic:
"Let nothing trouble you,
let nothing frighten you.
All things are passing;
God never changes.
Patience obtains all things.
He who possesses God lacks nothing:
God alone suffices."  (St Teresa of Avila)

SeekFirstcommunity.com

What do you hear when you listen?

“This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” (Matthew 17: 5).

The Church celebrates today the great feast of the Transfiguration. What happened at the Transfiguration?  In the presence of credible eyewitnesses, Peter, James and John, Jesus was transformed in His essence into a heavenly Being. But that was not all.

"Then a cloud came, casting a shadow over them; then from the cloud came a voice, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.”  (Mark 9: 7).

Just as John the Baptist identified Jesus at the Baptism as the Lamb of God, the Father Himself pointed out Jesus as His only beloved Son.
The Father added an authoritative command which should catch our attention. "LISTEN TO HIM."

What do you hear when you listen to Jesus? What I hear clearly is this:
"Make your top priority God’s kingdom and his way of life, and all these things will be given to you as well."  (Matthew 6: 33 NTE).
I like what I hear. It is clear from the Gospel that Jesus has a magnificent obsession for the Kingdom of God and righteousness.  I ask Abba Father every day to grant me a magnificent obsession for the Kingdom so that I can accomplish my mandate.

When you listen to Jesus, what do you hear?

SeekFirstcommunity.com

What is this food?

"My Father gives you the true bread from heaven." (John 6: 32).

Jesus and His followers are having an interesting conversation about the Bread of life.  First, what is this Bread of life? Answer:  "For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.”  (John 6: 33).

We know from Isaiah 25: 1 that every plan of God in salvation history is conceived "long ago." Nothing is improvised. The Eucharist is prefigured in today's first Reading from Exodus 16.
"What is this?" the people asked Moses. “It is the bread which the Lord has given you to eat." (Exodus 16: 15).

The manna the Lord provided the people in the desert was to be the grandfather of the Eucharist in the fullness of time.  The Israelites greeted the manna initially with scorn, "They spoke against God and against Moses, and said, "Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? There is no bread! There is no water! And we detest this miserable food!" (Numbers 21: 5).

Today some Christians sadly treat the Holy Eucharist with gross misinterpretation and levity.

"Brothers and sisters, I declare and testify in the Lord that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds;  darkened in understanding, alienated from the life of God because of their ignorance, because of their hardness of heart." (Ephesians 4: 17 - 18).

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Seek the gift of Prophecy.

“It is not lawful for you to have her.” (Matthew 14: 4).

The speaker of the above words is the Prophet John the Baptist.  He paid supreme price for these words.  An English author wrote:  "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned."  Prophets in the Bible and in history have suffered the brunt of angry women whose loves were threatened. Let's consider a few:

#1. Jezebel would have skinned the Prophet Elijah alive if she had caught him. 
#2.  "And he [Herod] had John beheaded in the prison." (Matthew 14: 10).
#3. King Henry VIII beheaded St Thomas More in order to marry Anne Boleyn.

Clearly the vocation of a Prophet would rank one of the most dangerous in the world.  The concluding verse in today's first Reading is: "But the hand of Ahikam, son of Shaphan, protected Jeremiah, so they did not hand him over to the people to be put to death."  (Jeremiah 26: 24). Yet in spite of these clear dangers, the Holy Spirit urges us:

"Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy." (1 Corinthians 14: 1).
That is, pray especially for the gift of prophecy. What is your response?

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Do not forget your ancient landmarks.

"And Jesus did not work many mighty deeds there because of their lack of faith." (Matthew 13: 58).

Familiarity amongst Jesus' kith and kin did not only breed contempt but bred unbelief as well.  Result? No faith, no miracle. Let us take stock of our faith.

Rule #1: How aware are you of all the good things God has done for you?  St John the Evangelist calls miracles signs. A sign is something that points to something else. Some modern commentators call miracle divine intervention.  I like this definition.  Scripture urges us:
"Do not forget your ancient Landmark."  (Proverbs 22: 28).
I decided recently to review the Timeline of my life to check on my ancient landmarks.  I was shocked at what I discovered. The least active decades had more than half a dozen landmarks.  Each of them, very impressive divine intervention.   Take for example when I received a major and transformative promotion which I had not expected.  I still look at it today as a miracle.

"Bless the Lord, my soul; and do not forget all his gifts." (Psalm 103: 2).
Help me gracious God never to forget any of Your benefits. I will recall the wondrous deeds You have done for me. (Cf 105: 5).

Jesus chides His disciples:
"Do you not yet understand, and do you not remember?" (Matthew 16: 9).

Remembering and understanding God's marvelous deeds in your life is the key to affluence or living the Abundant life promised by Jesus. (Cf John 10: 10).

Keep a record of God's mercies. Never forget your ancient landmarks.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus this Friday.

August 3, 2018 - First Friday.

The 12 Promises of the Sacred Heart of Jesus:  Jesus promised 12 special favors to all those who will honor His Sacred Heart especially on the First Friday of every month.  In the 8th month of the year 2018, we look at Promise #8.

#8.  "Fervent souls shall speedily rise to great perfection."

Who are fervent souls?
Are there hierarchy or grades of reward in Heaven? How would you feel to realize that although you made it to Heaven, you have not realized your fullest potential?

There are hierarchy of angels and choir.  Therefore there must be hierarchy of saints.  Some of the ministries or celebrations in Heaven are likely to be:  Choir and Intercessions.  Leading the ministries of Intercessions is Jesus our Eternal High Priest and His Mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Heaven.

Saints who will have pride of place in these two Heavenly Ministries are saints who have gone extra mile while on earth to please the Lamb and had washed their robes in the Blood of the Lamb. (Revelation 22: 14).

So my friends, being fervent is good but why not aim for perfection.

Honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus this Friday by attending Holy Mass.

For the 12 Promises of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, click the link below:

http://sfjweb.com/?q=content/sacred-heart-12-promises

Seekfirstcommunity.com

Do you know better than God?

"Can I not do to you, house of Israel, as this potter has done?—oracle of the Lord. Indeed, like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, house of Israel." (Jeremiah 18: 6).

God challenged the arrogant and independent minded Israelites with the reminder that their destiny is squarely in His hands.  Think about it: Aren't you happy that your destiny is in God's hands? I am.

"Whenever the vessel of clay he was making turned out badly in his hand, he tried again, making another vessel of whatever sort he pleased." (Jeremiah 18: 4).

You recognize that God is the potter.  God knows the plan He has for you and me.  He says under oath (oracle of the Lord) that this plan for our welfare is excellent.   (Jeremiah 29: 11).

Consider this:
"If that which God Himself chooses for you does not content you, from whom do you expect to obtain what you desire?.... Do you know better than God?" (Jean-Pierre de Caussade, SJ).

We are clay in the potter's hands and our attitude should be  like a weaned child in its mother’s arms. (Cf Psalm 131: 2).

These are some of the clay vessels which were transformed by the Master Potter:
Moses
Jeremiah
St Paul
St Francis of Assisi
St Louis Marie de Montfort

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Where is this Pearl of Great Value?

"Jesus said to his disciples: "The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls.  When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it."  (Matthew 13: 45 - 46).

Are you a seeker? Are you searching for more value in your life? More meaning? More peace and joy? More capacity for faith, hope and love?
Welcome to the the Good News of Jesus Christ.  The Pearl of Great Price.

Is it possible to find such a treasure? Let us look at some of the best of the children of men who searched and found this Pearl of Great Price:
St Mary Magdalene: Found the Great Pearl and thereafter got attached to the Pearl.
St Ignatius Loyola: Loved the Pearl passionately and abandoned everything and followed the Pearl everywhere.
St Thomas More:  Gave his life happily for the Pearl.
St Teresa of Kolkata:  Traveled the whole world spreading message about the Pearl.

How about you? What is your passion in life? Do you have any magnificent obsession? Jesus has a magnificent obsession for the Kingdom of God. He desires to get you involved in this beautiful project.
Will you say YES to Jesus?
Nobody who said YES had any regrets.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Every knee must bend at the Name of Jesus.

"At the name of Jesus, every knee should bend of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."  (Philippians 2: 10 - 11).

The Scriptures say that at the Name of Jesus, every knee should bend in worship.  This will happen at the Eschaton, the End of the Age.  When the Kingdom of God is made manifest, there will be no choice for any person but to bend the knee.  When Christ comes to take possession of His Kingdom, He will come not like a helpless poor baby but like a mighty King.  When the sun is up and shining, nobody asks "where is the sun?" You see the sun from wherever you may be.

Today is the feast of St Ignatius Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus, the Jesuits.  Ignatius contributed deep insights into the Discernment of Spirits.  His insights are still used in retreats all over the world.  Ignatius had such an intimate love for Jesus and left us this great desire of his heart:

+  To know the Heart of Jesus intimately.
+  To love Him passionately.
+   To follow Jesus everywhere.

Ignatius counsels his spiritual children to do everything for the greater glory of God.

SeekFirstcommunity.com

Where is the Kingdom of God?

“The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that a person took and sowed in a field. It is the smallest of all the seeds, yet when full-grown it is the largest of plants. It becomes a large bush, and the ‘birds of the sky come and dwell in its branches."  (Matthew 13: 31 - 32).

The Kingdom of Heaven is like a Mustard Seed at the beginning of the Church Age.  At Pentecost about 120 disciples of Jesus were in the Upper Room, praying and waiting for the Promised of the Father, the Holy Spirit.  2000 years after, there are over 2.5 billion Christians in the world.  Is the Kingdom of God still like a Mustard Seed? Yes, it has grown but yet to reach its potential.

Jesus Christ came to the world to establish the Kingdom of God. The Church is the seed on earth.
The Kingdom is mentioned 342 times in the entire Bible.  119 or 34% in the 4 Gospels.  Jesus had a magnificent obsession about the Kingdom.  He talked of nothing as much as the Kingdom.

"Jesus presented himself alive to them [Apostles] by many proofs after he had suffered, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God."  (Acts 1: 3).

After the Resurrection, Jesus continued His catechesis on the Kingdom.

The Kingdom is here and now.  The fullness of the Kingdom is in the future.  Until the full realization of Kingdom, it is like a Mustard Seed. Jesus wants us to be obsessed with the Kingdom just as He was in the days of His public ministry.  We participate in the the work of the Kingdom by growing daily in Faith, Hope and Charity.

"Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven."  (Matthew 6: 10). 
"Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness."  (Matthew 6: 33).

SeekFirstcommunity.com