"Yahweh made this covenant not with our ancestors, but with us, with all of us alive here today." (Deuteronomy 5:3).
1. I am Yahweh your God who brought you out of Egypt, out of the place of slave-labor. You will have no gods other than me.
Where is your Egypt and where is your place of slave-labor? From what has the Lord delivered you? What is holding you in bondage today? What the Lord did in the past, He can repeat today. If you have been delivered from bondage or from the place of slave-labor, hold fast to your freedom. Do not lose it again.
2. You must not misuse the name of Yahweh your God, for Yahweh will not leave unpunished anyone who uses his name for what is false.
The Opening Prayer in the Memorial Mass of a saint touches on the special gift of the saint. Thus, the Opening Prayer on the feast of St. Ignatius Loyola says: "Father, you gave St. Ignatius of Loyola to your Church to bring greater glory to your name. May we follow his example on earth and share the crown of life in heaven..." Ignatius like many saints had an extraordinary love for the name of Jesus. The Scripture foretold this love when it says: "At the name of Jesus every knee must bend, in heaven, on earth, and under the earth; every tongue should proclaim to the glory of God the Father: Jesus Christ is Lord." (Philippians 2: 10 - 11)
What does the name of Jesus mean to us?
3. "Observe the Sabbath day and keep it holy, as Yahweh your God has commanded you. Labor for six days, doing all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath for Yahweh your God. You must not do any work that day. "
Do you see Sunday as a gift of God to us to help us to renew ourselves spiritually, emotionally and physically? If we understand the idea behind this commandment, we will understand that every commandment is for our benefit.
4. Honor your father and your mother, as Yahweh your God has commanded you, so that you may have long life and may prosper in the country which Yahweh your God is giving you.
5. You must not kill.
6. You must not commit adultery.
7. You must not steal.
8. You must not give false evidence against your fellow.
9. You must not set your heart on your neighbor's spouse.
10. You must not set your heart on your neighbor's house, or field, or servant - man or woman - or ox, or donkey or any of your neighbor's possessions.
Saturday, September 17, 2005
Friday, September 16, 2005
Gods love
."Yes, God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not be lost but may have eternal life" (John 3:16).
Jesus is the expression of God's love for the world. When we are asked: How do you know that God loves the world? We point to Jesus. The presence of Jesus in our lives is the concrete evidence of God's love for us.
Jesus is present in everyone who believes in Him. Belief in Jesus means we accept Jesus as the light of our life, the center of our being, the meaning of our life. Faith in Jesus implies that we agree freely to walk by His light. This light is provided by the Gospels. We allow every detail of our life to be touched by this light. Acceptance of Jesus signifies knowing Jesus intimately, loving Him passionately us and committing ourselves to follow Him everywhere.
See: Navarre Bible: St John
Jesus is the expression of God's love for the world. When we are asked: How do you know that God loves the world? We point to Jesus. The presence of Jesus in our lives is the concrete evidence of God's love for us.
Jesus is present in everyone who believes in Him. Belief in Jesus means we accept Jesus as the light of our life, the center of our being, the meaning of our life. Faith in Jesus implies that we agree freely to walk by His light. This light is provided by the Gospels. We allow every detail of our life to be touched by this light. Acceptance of Jesus signifies knowing Jesus intimately, loving Him passionately us and committing ourselves to follow Him everywhere.
See: Navarre Bible: St John
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Purpose
"I was born and came into the world for this one purpose, to speak about the truth" (John 18: 37).
Jesus defined His purpose on earth as bearing testimony to the truth. The truth is the business of these pages.
Jesus promises:” I have opened a door in front of you which no one can close" (Revelation 3:8). This promise is for all of us and the internet could be that door. The net provides us with a stupendous opportunity to spread and receive the healing truth of Jesus Christ.
This Blog shares personal reflections on the teachings of Jesus Christ.
"Go and preach to all nations: baptize them and teach them all I have commanded you"(Matthew 28: 19-20).
MISSION STATEMENT: I learn and I communicate the Truth
Jesus defined His purpose on earth as bearing testimony to the truth. The truth is the business of these pages.
Jesus promises:” I have opened a door in front of you which no one can close" (Revelation 3:8). This promise is for all of us and the internet could be that door. The net provides us with a stupendous opportunity to spread and receive the healing truth of Jesus Christ.
This Blog shares personal reflections on the teachings of Jesus Christ.
"Go and preach to all nations: baptize them and teach them all I have commanded you"(Matthew 28: 19-20).
MISSION STATEMENT: I learn and I communicate the Truth
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Jesus Must Reign on the Web
"The weapons we use in our fight are not the world's weapons but God's powerful weapons, which we use to destroy strong-holds. We destroy false arguments; we pull down every proud obstacle that is raised against the knowledge of God; we take every thougth captive and make it obey Christ" (2 Corinthians 10: 4-5)New Jerusalem Bible.
God gave us in His word a powerful weapon. With this weapon, we can destroy strong-holds, false arguments and pull down every proud obstacle that is raised against the knowledge of God. How do we use God's word as a weapon in spiritual warfare? Jesus told us to make His word our home if we want to be His disciples. Only trained disciples can participate in the war. When the word is in our hearts and on our lips, the Holy Spirit will inspire us when and what to use. Jesus Christ must reign on the internet. Below are links to some Christian sites on the web.
VATICAN: This is the homepage of the Holy See, the official site of the administration of the Catholic Church. It is one of the most popular Catholic websites.
Documents of the Roman Catholic Church: This is the warehouse of Catholic documents. Most historic documents are listed included those of the Council of Trent and the Second Vatican Council. Major papal encyclicals, writings of the Church Fathers and excerpts from the new Cathechism of the Catholic Church are listed.
Two Thousand Years of Catholic Writing: The works of major Catholic authors in the past 20 centuries are listed. Authors are listed in chronological order. The listing tells a wider story of a Church that has shaped modern civilization.
Summa Theologica St Thomas Aquinas' Summa Theologica and the writings of St Augustine shaped Catholic thoughts as no other Church Fathers since the time of the Apostles
Daughters of St Paul The Daughters of St Paul is an international congregation of religious women in the Catholic Church whose aim is "communicating God's love through media technology.
Jesuit Resources on the Web The Society of Jesus, known as the Jesuits was founded by Ignatius Loyola (1492 - 1556). The Society is an order of religious men bound by vows of poverty, chastity and special obedience to the Pope. Founded in 1540, the Society of Jesus has had great influence in the history of the Church.
Opus Dei This is the official site of Opus Dei, a religious movement founded by St. Josemaria Escriva. Opus Dei encourages lay spirituality and believes that God calls everybody to holiness no matter the state in life.
Internet Theology Resources This is a rich resource page for theology. It looks at Christian theology from various angles. There are links to schools, libraries, fellowships, journals, associations and newsgroups
God gave us in His word a powerful weapon. With this weapon, we can destroy strong-holds, false arguments and pull down every proud obstacle that is raised against the knowledge of God. How do we use God's word as a weapon in spiritual warfare? Jesus told us to make His word our home if we want to be His disciples. Only trained disciples can participate in the war. When the word is in our hearts and on our lips, the Holy Spirit will inspire us when and what to use. Jesus Christ must reign on the internet. Below are links to some Christian sites on the web.
VATICAN: This is the homepage of the Holy See, the official site of the administration of the Catholic Church. It is one of the most popular Catholic websites.
Documents of the Roman Catholic Church: This is the warehouse of Catholic documents. Most historic documents are listed included those of the Council of Trent and the Second Vatican Council. Major papal encyclicals, writings of the Church Fathers and excerpts from the new Cathechism of the Catholic Church are listed.
Two Thousand Years of Catholic Writing: The works of major Catholic authors in the past 20 centuries are listed. Authors are listed in chronological order. The listing tells a wider story of a Church that has shaped modern civilization.
Summa Theologica St Thomas Aquinas' Summa Theologica and the writings of St Augustine shaped Catholic thoughts as no other Church Fathers since the time of the Apostles
Daughters of St Paul The Daughters of St Paul is an international congregation of religious women in the Catholic Church whose aim is "communicating God's love through media technology.
Jesuit Resources on the Web The Society of Jesus, known as the Jesuits was founded by Ignatius Loyola (1492 - 1556). The Society is an order of religious men bound by vows of poverty, chastity and special obedience to the Pope. Founded in 1540, the Society of Jesus has had great influence in the history of the Church.
Opus Dei This is the official site of Opus Dei, a religious movement founded by St. Josemaria Escriva. Opus Dei encourages lay spirituality and believes that God calls everybody to holiness no matter the state in life.
Internet Theology Resources This is a rich resource page for theology. It looks at Christian theology from various angles. There are links to schools, libraries, fellowships, journals, associations and newsgroups
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Wisdom and the Cross
“The first principle of wisdom is: acquire wisdom; at the cost of all you have, acquire understanding! Hold her close, and she will make you great; embrace her, and she will be your pride; she will provide a graceful garland for your head, bestow a crown of honor on you.” (Proverbs 4: 7-9)
My pursuit of wisdom took me to self-development literature, philosophy, theology and history. After many years of seeking wisdom from second-hand sources, I was pointed to the fountain of wisdom: the Bible.
Roger Crawford in his book, How High Can You Bounce? , writes: "Resilient people realize that it’s impossible to see the full value of adversity until it is behind us. Understanding and wisdom come after an event, not before." Wisdom can come during an event if one feeds himself with a daily portion of the word of God.
Wisdom and the Cross
St Francis de Sales writes: "The everlasting God has in His wisdom foreseen from eternity, the cross He now presents to you from His innermost heart. This cross He now sends you He has considered with His all-knowing eyes, understood with His divine mind, tested with His wise justice, warmed with loving arms and weighed with His own hands to see that it is not one ounce too heavy for you. He has blessed it with His Holy Name, anointed it with His grace, perfumed it with His consolation, and taken one last glance at you and your courage - has sent it to you from heaven, a special greeting from God to you, an alms of the all merciful love of God."
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More Scriptures on Wisdom
My pursuit of wisdom took me to self-development literature, philosophy, theology and history. After many years of seeking wisdom from second-hand sources, I was pointed to the fountain of wisdom: the Bible.
Roger Crawford in his book, How High Can You Bounce? , writes: "Resilient people realize that it’s impossible to see the full value of adversity until it is behind us. Understanding and wisdom come after an event, not before." Wisdom can come during an event if one feeds himself with a daily portion of the word of God.
Wisdom and the Cross
St Francis de Sales writes: "The everlasting God has in His wisdom foreseen from eternity, the cross He now presents to you from His innermost heart. This cross He now sends you He has considered with His all-knowing eyes, understood with His divine mind, tested with His wise justice, warmed with loving arms and weighed with His own hands to see that it is not one ounce too heavy for you. He has blessed it with His Holy Name, anointed it with His grace, perfumed it with His consolation, and taken one last glance at you and your courage - has sent it to you from heaven, a special greeting from God to you, an alms of the all merciful love of God."
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More Scriptures on Wisdom
- “Blessed are those who have discovered wisdom, those who have acquired understanding! Gaining her is more rewarding than silver, her yield is more valuable than gold. She is beyond the price of pearls, nothing you could covet is her equal. In her right hand is length of days; in her left hand, riches and honor. Her ways are filled with delight, her paths all lead to contentment. She is a tree of life for those who hold her fast, those who cling to her live happy lives.” (Proverbs 3: 13-18)
- "Teach me wisdom and knowledge, for in your commands I trust. (Psalm 119:66)
- "And now my children listen to me. Happy are those who keep my ways. Listen to instruction and become wise, do not reject it. Blessed, whoever listens to me, who day after day keep watch at my portals. For whoever finds me finds life, and obtains the favor of Yahweh; but whoever misses me harms himself, all who hate me are in love with death." (Proverbs 9: 32-36)
- “The blessing of Yahweh is what brings riches, to this, hard toil has nothing to add.” (Proverbs 11: 22)
- “For want of leadership a people perishes, safety lies in many advisers” (Proverbs 11: 14)
- “A sudden fortune will dwindle away, accumulation little by little is the way to riches.” (Proverbs 13: 11)
- “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, desire fulfilled is a tree of life.” (Proverbs 13:12)
- “In the fear of Yahweh is powerful security; for his children he is a refuge.” (Proverbs 14:26)
- “Better to have a little and with it fear of Yahweh than immense wealth and with it anxiety.” (Proverbs 15:16)
- "Two things I beg of you, do not grudge me them before I die: keep falsehood and lies far from me, give me neither poverty nor riches, grant me only my share of food, for fear that, surrounded by plenty, I should fall away and say, 'Yahweh - who is Yahweh?' or else, in destitution, take to stealing and profane the name of my God."(Proverbs 30: 7-9)
- “For Yahweh himself is giver of wisdom, from his mouth issue knowledge and understanding. He reserves his advice for the honest, a shield to those whose ways are sound; he stands guard over the path of equity.”(Proverbs 2: 6-8)
- “Trust wholeheartedly in Yahweh, put no faith in your own perception; acknowledge him in every course you take, and he will see that your paths are smooth.”(Proverbs 3:5-6)
- “My child do not scorn correction from Yahweh, do not resent his reproof; for Yahweh reproves those he love, as a father the child whom he loves.”(Proverbs 3: 11-120)
Monday, September 12, 2005
The Gold & Silver in God's Word
"The law of your mouth is to me more precious than thousands of gold and silver pieces.” (Psalm 119: 72).
How do we know for certain that God's word is more precious than silver and gold? God's word transforms ordinary humans into extraordinary beings. There are abundant proofs from the lives of many people. Their heroic lives had been recognized and many of them canonized as saints. The proof also come from the lives of dedicated Christians living among us. These individuals have the courage to test the life-changing principles in the Bible and confirm that they work. Their highly successful lives and achievements bear testimony to the power of God's word. God’s word contains many promises each of which may be worth more than silver and gold, depending on our needs.
To discover the gold and silver in the word of God, read it as a personal letter. Read the word in order to act on its principles and so obtain what it promises.
How Apply the Word of God to your Problem:
Believe the Bible text that God has revealed as answer to your problem. Belief may not come automatically. Like Peter, you can say again and again: "Lord I believe; increase my faith."
When you get a clear idea on concrete steps to take to solve your problem, act without hesitation. If you are not sure, wait until you get this clear signal. This is the most important step. "Faith that is firm is also patient." (Isaiah 28:16)
See books on: The Word of God
How do we know for certain that God's word is more precious than silver and gold? God's word transforms ordinary humans into extraordinary beings. There are abundant proofs from the lives of many people. Their heroic lives had been recognized and many of them canonized as saints. The proof also come from the lives of dedicated Christians living among us. These individuals have the courage to test the life-changing principles in the Bible and confirm that they work. Their highly successful lives and achievements bear testimony to the power of God's word. God’s word contains many promises each of which may be worth more than silver and gold, depending on our needs.
To discover the gold and silver in the word of God, read it as a personal letter. Read the word in order to act on its principles and so obtain what it promises.
How Apply the Word of God to your Problem:
- Define the problem.
- . State two or more key words that are contained in your problem.
- Get a Bible Concordance and list all the references to your keywords.
- Take your Bible and write out all the references that bear directly on the problem.
- Focus on a number of texts that apply directly to you.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to show you how to apply the scripture.
Believe the Bible text that God has revealed as answer to your problem. Belief may not come automatically. Like Peter, you can say again and again: "Lord I believe; increase my faith."
When you get a clear idea on concrete steps to take to solve your problem, act without hesitation. If you are not sure, wait until you get this clear signal. This is the most important step. "Faith that is firm is also patient." (Isaiah 28:16)
See books on: The Word of God
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Baptism of the Holy Spirit
"I tell you most solemnly, unless a man is born through water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God" (John 3:5).
The kingdom of God here and now is something we cannot experience without the Holy Spirit. An old Chinese proverb says: ‘When the student is ready, the teacher appears.’ The Holy Spirit is the Teacher and Friend who is standing by waiting for us to be ready and invite Him into our lives. Jesus says that we must be born through water and the Holy Spirit. Full acceptance of Jesus Christ ushers the Holy Spirit into our lives. This experience marks our entrance into the kingdom of God which starts here and now. We experience the kingdom of God when we practice justice, truth, love and self-control.
Jesus says that we need the Holy Spirit to succeed as Christians. We respond to this message of our Lord and Savior by seeking everyday, a fresh anointing of the Holy Spirit to help us to overcome sin and give us the power to proclaim Jesus Christ with boldness.
Thank you Jesus for your promise to give the Holy Spirit to whoever asks for it. Give us the Holy Spirit, Lord.
See: Navarre Bible: St John
The kingdom of God here and now is something we cannot experience without the Holy Spirit. An old Chinese proverb says: ‘When the student is ready, the teacher appears.’ The Holy Spirit is the Teacher and Friend who is standing by waiting for us to be ready and invite Him into our lives. Jesus says that we must be born through water and the Holy Spirit. Full acceptance of Jesus Christ ushers the Holy Spirit into our lives. This experience marks our entrance into the kingdom of God which starts here and now. We experience the kingdom of God when we practice justice, truth, love and self-control.
Jesus says that we need the Holy Spirit to succeed as Christians. We respond to this message of our Lord and Savior by seeking everyday, a fresh anointing of the Holy Spirit to help us to overcome sin and give us the power to proclaim Jesus Christ with boldness.
Thank you Jesus for your promise to give the Holy Spirit to whoever asks for it. Give us the Holy Spirit, Lord.
See: Navarre Bible: St John
Saturday, September 10, 2005
Lamb of God
"Look, there is the Lamb of God." (John 1:36)
The Lamb is one of John's favorite images for Jesus. It is one that is full of meekness, gentleness and tenderness. Jesus is not the lion of God or the horse of God but rather the Lamb of God. Everything in Scripture is written to teach us some truth. Jesus is the image of God the Father. One of the purposes of His incarnation is to reveal to us the nature of the Father. Jesus is the God who is meek, gentle and tender. A God that is very lovable.
Jesus as the Lamb of God is a concept we can all relate to: young and old, poor and rich, strong and weak. The New Testament has so many names for Jesus: Emmanuel, Prince of peace, High Priest, Son of David, etc. The Lamb is one of the tenderest descriptions of Jesus. It is an image of the power that created the universe presented as powerless.
Jesus is the Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world. The Lamb defeated the ferocious enemy, the ruler of the powers and principalities. The Lamb was slaughtered but now is alive forever more. Is it not amazing that the image of a lamb is used to portray the power that defeated Satan? God displays His mighty power through meekness, gentleness and tenderness, rather than through brutal force.
Lord Jesus, make us meek, gentle and tender lambs.
See: Navarre Bible: St John
The Lamb is one of John's favorite images for Jesus. It is one that is full of meekness, gentleness and tenderness. Jesus is not the lion of God or the horse of God but rather the Lamb of God. Everything in Scripture is written to teach us some truth. Jesus is the image of God the Father. One of the purposes of His incarnation is to reveal to us the nature of the Father. Jesus is the God who is meek, gentle and tender. A God that is very lovable.
Jesus as the Lamb of God is a concept we can all relate to: young and old, poor and rich, strong and weak. The New Testament has so many names for Jesus: Emmanuel, Prince of peace, High Priest, Son of David, etc. The Lamb is one of the tenderest descriptions of Jesus. It is an image of the power that created the universe presented as powerless.
Jesus is the Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world. The Lamb defeated the ferocious enemy, the ruler of the powers and principalities. The Lamb was slaughtered but now is alive forever more. Is it not amazing that the image of a lamb is used to portray the power that defeated Satan? God displays His mighty power through meekness, gentleness and tenderness, rather than through brutal force.
Lord Jesus, make us meek, gentle and tender lambs.
See: Navarre Bible: St John
Friday, September 09, 2005
St. Peter Canisius
"Besides being a sage, Qoheleth taught the people what he himself knew, having weighed, studied and emended many proverbs. Qoheleth took pains to write in an attractive style and by it to convey truths(Ecclesiastes 12: 9-10).
Peter Canisius was born in Nijmegen, Holland in 1521. Peter studied canon law at Cologne University and Louvain. After his studies, he joined the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) and distinguished himself in teaching, preaching and writing. Peter Canisius became a type of Qoheleth (Ecclesiastes 12: 9-10, 12). He was a sage who shared liberally the fruits of his arduous studies in many books. "When I discovered your teaching, I devoured it. Your words brought me joy and gladness; you have called me your own, O Lord my God." (Jeremaiah 15:16) Peter Canisius could say the same thing.
In 1555, Peter published his famous Catechism, (Summa Doctrinae Christianae), which was the Catholic answer to Luther's great work. This Catechism which was translated into more than 16 languages during Peter Canisius's life became a model for catechisms up to this day. The Lord sustained him in the priesthood till the end of his life: "The Lord has sworn an oath and he will not retract; you are a priest forever, in the line of Melchisedech" (Psalm 110:4)
St Peter Canisius died in 1597 and was canonized and declared a saint of the Church in 1925. "He shall receive a blessing from the Lord, a reward from God his savior. Such is the race that seeks for him, that seeks the face of the God of Jacob." (Psalm 24: 5-6) His feast day is December 21.
BOOKS ON ST PETER CANISIUS
Peter Canisius was born in Nijmegen, Holland in 1521. Peter studied canon law at Cologne University and Louvain. After his studies, he joined the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) and distinguished himself in teaching, preaching and writing. Peter Canisius became a type of Qoheleth (Ecclesiastes 12: 9-10, 12). He was a sage who shared liberally the fruits of his arduous studies in many books. "When I discovered your teaching, I devoured it. Your words brought me joy and gladness; you have called me your own, O Lord my God." (Jeremaiah 15:16) Peter Canisius could say the same thing.
In 1555, Peter published his famous Catechism, (Summa Doctrinae Christianae), which was the Catholic answer to Luther's great work. This Catechism which was translated into more than 16 languages during Peter Canisius's life became a model for catechisms up to this day. The Lord sustained him in the priesthood till the end of his life: "The Lord has sworn an oath and he will not retract; you are a priest forever, in the line of Melchisedech" (Psalm 110:4)
St Peter Canisius died in 1597 and was canonized and declared a saint of the Church in 1925. "He shall receive a blessing from the Lord, a reward from God his savior. Such is the race that seeks for him, that seeks the face of the God of Jacob." (Psalm 24: 5-6) His feast day is December 21.
BOOKS ON ST PETER CANISIUS
Thursday, September 08, 2005
My Top 10 Historical Events
"At that time the Emperor Augustus ordered a census to be taken throughout the Roman Empire. When this first census took place, Quirinius was the governor of Syria. Everyone then went to register himself, each to his own town.
Joseph went to register with Mary" (Luke 2: 1-5).
Charles A. Beard (1874 - 1948). Historian. When asked if he could summarize the lessons of history in a short book, said he could do it in four sentences:
1. Judea 4 BC: Mary, the wife of Joseph gave birth to Jesus called the Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit.
2. Judea, 7 September 70 AD: Emperor Titus destroyed Jerusalem.
3. Milan, Feb 313: Edict of Milan - Emperors Constantine and Lucinius agreed on a policy of religious toleration for Christians.
4. Rome, 3 July 321: Sunday became a day of rest throughout the Roman empire.
5. Asia Minor, June 431: The third ecumenical council meeting at Ephesus condemned the Nestorian doctrine as heresy and declared Mary as Theotokos, that is, Mother of God.
6. Arabia, 16 July 622: Mohamed fled Mecca and took refuge at Medina. His flight is known as the hegira.
7. Caribbean, 12 October 1492: Christopher Columbus landed in an island he called San Salvador.
8. Germany, 31 October 1517: Martin Luther posted a list of 95 theses challenging the Church.
9. Lourdes, 15 February 1858: The Blessed Virgin Mary appeared in Lourdes grotto.
10. Washington DC, 1 January 1863: President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Act, proclaiming all slaves in the confederate states free.
Joseph went to register with Mary" (Luke 2: 1-5).
Charles A. Beard (1874 - 1948). Historian. When asked if he could summarize the lessons of history in a short book, said he could do it in four sentences:
- Whom the gods destroy, they first make mad with power.
- The mills of God grind slowly, yet they grind exceedingly small.
- The bee fertilizes the flower it robs.
- When it is dark enough, you can see all the stars.
1. Judea 4 BC: Mary, the wife of Joseph gave birth to Jesus called the Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit.
2. Judea, 7 September 70 AD: Emperor Titus destroyed Jerusalem.
3. Milan, Feb 313: Edict of Milan - Emperors Constantine and Lucinius agreed on a policy of religious toleration for Christians.
4. Rome, 3 July 321: Sunday became a day of rest throughout the Roman empire.
5. Asia Minor, June 431: The third ecumenical council meeting at Ephesus condemned the Nestorian doctrine as heresy and declared Mary as Theotokos, that is, Mother of God.
6. Arabia, 16 July 622: Mohamed fled Mecca and took refuge at Medina. His flight is known as the hegira.
7. Caribbean, 12 October 1492: Christopher Columbus landed in an island he called San Salvador.
8. Germany, 31 October 1517: Martin Luther posted a list of 95 theses challenging the Church.
9. Lourdes, 15 February 1858: The Blessed Virgin Mary appeared in Lourdes grotto.
10. Washington DC, 1 January 1863: President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Act, proclaiming all slaves in the confederate states free.
Wednesday, September 07, 2005
Abundant Life
"I have come that they may have life and have it to the full" (John 10:10)
We all desire to live abundantly, to achieve our potentials in life. The aim of education is to develop our talents to live to the full. Christ promises that He came that we may have abundant life. Experience shows us that this present life does not satisfy all our needs and does not last forever. Jesus must mean some other form of life in his promise of abundant life. He is talking of spiritual life, eternal life. A life that begins here and continues forever. Jesus achieved this life for us through His teaching, death and resurrection.
In another passage, Jesus says: "And this is eternal life, that they know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent" [John 17:3.4]. What then is eternal life? Why do we need it? Who gives eternal life and how is it obtained? When and where is eternal life given?
Man, created in the image and likeness of God has a spiritual nature. Eternal life is the life of the spirit that enables man to live as a son of God. Jesus Christ gives the life through His word and the Eucharist, that is, the gift of His Body and Blood. To obtain this life, we ask for it in faith and Jesus gives us through His Holy Spirit. If man lives to the full when he lives spiritually, it means that people without God cannot live to the full. To live to the full we need Jesus.
See: Navarre Bible: St John
We all desire to live abundantly, to achieve our potentials in life. The aim of education is to develop our talents to live to the full. Christ promises that He came that we may have abundant life. Experience shows us that this present life does not satisfy all our needs and does not last forever. Jesus must mean some other form of life in his promise of abundant life. He is talking of spiritual life, eternal life. A life that begins here and continues forever. Jesus achieved this life for us through His teaching, death and resurrection.
In another passage, Jesus says: "And this is eternal life, that they know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent" [John 17:3.4]. What then is eternal life? Why do we need it? Who gives eternal life and how is it obtained? When and where is eternal life given?
Man, created in the image and likeness of God has a spiritual nature. Eternal life is the life of the spirit that enables man to live as a son of God. Jesus Christ gives the life through His word and the Eucharist, that is, the gift of His Body and Blood. To obtain this life, we ask for it in faith and Jesus gives us through His Holy Spirit. If man lives to the full when he lives spiritually, it means that people without God cannot live to the full. To live to the full we need Jesus.
See: Navarre Bible: St John
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
St. John Chrysostom
"Besides being a sage, Qoheleth taught the people what he himself knew, having weighed, studied and emended many proverbs. Qoheleth took pains to write in an attractive style and by it to convey truths(Ecclesiastes 12: 9-10).
St John Chrysostom was born in 347, the son of a Latin father and a Greek mother. His name 'Chrysostom' means golden-mouthed. John, a type of Qoheleth in (Ecclesiastes 12: 9-10, 12) wrote numerous homilies on the Gospels of Matthew and John and the letter to the Romans. He became very distinquished as a writer and preacher. As the patriarch of Constantinople, John was reform minded. John is one of the four Greek doctors of the Church. St. John Chrysostom is the patron of preachers. His feast day is September 13.
Quotes from John Chrysostom
"There is no better teaching than the teacher's own example. By taking this course, the teacher is sure to get his disciple to follow him. Speak wisely, instruct as eloquently as you can...,but your example will make a greater impression, will be more decisive...When your actions are in line with your words, nobody will be able to find fault with you" (Homily on Philippians).
"The books of the Bible are teachers which never cease to instruct us[...].Open these books. What a treasuries of good remedies they contain! [...]. All you need do is look at the book, read it and remember well the wise teachings therein. The source of all our evils is our ignorance of the sacred books" (Homilies on Colossians).
"If God has honored us with countless gifts it is thanks to his love, not to our merits. Our fervor, our strength, our faith and our unity are the fruits of God's benevolence and our response to his goodness" (Homily on Ephesians, ad loc).
BOOKS ON ST JOHN CHRYSOSTOM
Monday, September 05, 2005
The Light of the World
"The Word was the light that enlightens all men." (John 1:9)
The Word is Jesus Christ. Jesus provides meaning for the life of man. This meaning is the light that guides us in dark places of the world. Without this light, we move in darkness and error. The Word gives meaning to the spiritual nature of man. He explains everything about man in relation to God.
There are two lights in the world: the light of the Word and the light of Satan, which is in reality darkness. This light is error; it distorts the image of man by trying to portray man as purely a material being. But Christ is the true light of the world. Where is this light? Where is Christ? Where Christ is, there is the light. Christ is alive in the Church; He is in His word; He is also in the sacraments of the Church. Christ is also anywhere two or three people are gathered in His name. It is obvious that we cannot perceive Jesus today with our physical eyes. We need the light of faith to do so.
How do we apply this scripture today? The word of God is the true light that enlightens me on: health, family, food, tools, job and money. Any other light will lead me into error. When I ask prayerfully this question: What does the word of God say on my health, family, job, food, money or tools, the answer I get will guide me to right action in relation to all these basic necessities of life.
See: Navarre Bible: St John
The Word is Jesus Christ. Jesus provides meaning for the life of man. This meaning is the light that guides us in dark places of the world. Without this light, we move in darkness and error. The Word gives meaning to the spiritual nature of man. He explains everything about man in relation to God.
There are two lights in the world: the light of the Word and the light of Satan, which is in reality darkness. This light is error; it distorts the image of man by trying to portray man as purely a material being. But Christ is the true light of the world. Where is this light? Where is Christ? Where Christ is, there is the light. Christ is alive in the Church; He is in His word; He is also in the sacraments of the Church. Christ is also anywhere two or three people are gathered in His name. It is obvious that we cannot perceive Jesus today with our physical eyes. We need the light of faith to do so.
How do we apply this scripture today? The word of God is the true light that enlightens me on: health, family, food, tools, job and money. Any other light will lead me into error. When I ask prayerfully this question: What does the word of God say on my health, family, job, food, money or tools, the answer I get will guide me to right action in relation to all these basic necessities of life.
See: Navarre Bible: St John
Sunday, September 04, 2005
Are your confident
"God indeed is my savior; I am confident and unafraid. My strength and my courage is the Lord, and he has been my savior." (Isaiah 12:2)
What makes the word of God so potent in transforming our fears and weakness into strength? One good reason to me is the person behind that word and promise. We know that God cannot fail come what may.
The Holy Spirit writes in Isaiah 12:2 "God indeed is my savior; I am confident and unafraid. My strength and my courage is the Lord, and he has been my savior." When we receive words like these with an open and trusting heart, incredible strength and courage is born within us. And we feel that we can do almost anything because of Him who gives us strength.
The Bible urges us again and again to have courage and not to be afraid. We need courage to claim our inheritance. Every parent realizes this truth. Our Father in heaven knows that we cannot claim our rights as His children without courage. If we believe that God is indeed our Savior and ever present help, then we should be confident and not be afraid. The life of love, praise and worship of our creator which is the very essence of the Christian life demands courage.
See: Some Books on Courage
What makes the word of God so potent in transforming our fears and weakness into strength? One good reason to me is the person behind that word and promise. We know that God cannot fail come what may.
The Holy Spirit writes in Isaiah 12:2 "God indeed is my savior; I am confident and unafraid. My strength and my courage is the Lord, and he has been my savior." When we receive words like these with an open and trusting heart, incredible strength and courage is born within us. And we feel that we can do almost anything because of Him who gives us strength.
The Bible urges us again and again to have courage and not to be afraid. We need courage to claim our inheritance. Every parent realizes this truth. Our Father in heaven knows that we cannot claim our rights as His children without courage. If we believe that God is indeed our Savior and ever present help, then we should be confident and not be afraid. The life of love, praise and worship of our creator which is the very essence of the Christian life demands courage.
See: Some Books on Courage
Saturday, September 03, 2005
My 10 Favorite Names of Jesus
"Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,' which means, 'God is with us" (Matthew 1:23).
Jesus Christ is called by many names and titles in the Bible. . All the names are significant. The ten names below are my favorite names of Jesus.
1. Emmanuel : "Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,' which means, 'God is with us" (Matthew 1:23).
2. Alpha and Omega : "I am the Alpha and the Omega,' says the Lord God, who is, who was, and who is to come, the Almighty (Revelation 1:8).
3. Lamb of God : "Look, there is the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world."(John 1:29).
4. Kings of kings : "He is the blessed and only Sovereign, King of kings and Lord of lords." (1 Timothy 6:15).
5. Prince of Peace: "And this is the name he has been given, 'Wonder-Counselor, Mighty-God, Eternal-Father, Prince-of-Peace" (Isaiah 9:5).
6. Teacher : "Rabbi, we know that you have come from God as a teacher" (John 3:2).
7. Living One : "I am the Living One" (Revelation 1:17).
8. Bread of life : "I am the bread of life" (John 6:48).
9. Faithful Witness : "Grace and peace to you from him who is, who was, and who is to come, ...and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness" (Revelation 1:5).
10. Light of the world : "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12).
Jesus Christ is called by many names and titles in the Bible. . All the names are significant. The ten names below are my favorite names of Jesus.
1. Emmanuel : "Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,' which means, 'God is with us" (Matthew 1:23).
2. Alpha and Omega : "I am the Alpha and the Omega,' says the Lord God, who is, who was, and who is to come, the Almighty (Revelation 1:8).
3. Lamb of God : "Look, there is the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world."(John 1:29).
4. Kings of kings : "He is the blessed and only Sovereign, King of kings and Lord of lords." (1 Timothy 6:15).
5. Prince of Peace: "And this is the name he has been given, 'Wonder-Counselor, Mighty-God, Eternal-Father, Prince-of-Peace" (Isaiah 9:5).
6. Teacher : "Rabbi, we know that you have come from God as a teacher" (John 3:2).
7. Living One : "I am the Living One" (Revelation 1:17).
8. Bread of life : "I am the bread of life" (John 6:48).
9. Faithful Witness : "Grace and peace to you from him who is, who was, and who is to come, ...and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness" (Revelation 1:5).
10. Light of the world : "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12).
Friday, September 02, 2005
Do you want power?
"But you will receive the power of the Holy Spirit which will come upon you, and then you will be my witnesses not only in Jerusalem but throughout Judea and Samaria, and indeed to earths remotest end.." (Acts 1:8)
GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:
* Word of wisdom * Word of knowledge * Faith
* Healing power * Working of miracles * Prophecy
* Discernment of spirits * Gift of tongues * Interpretation of tongues
(1 Corinthians 12: 8-10)
FRUITS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
* Love * Joy * Peace
* Long-suffering * Kindness * Goodness
* Faithfulness * Gentleness * Self-control
(Galatians 5:22-23)
Prayer to the Holy Spirit
"Spirit of God, enliven me.
Spirit of Truth, guide me.
Spirit of Goodness, strengthen me.
Spirit of Love, inflame me.
Spirit of life, sanctify me.
Spirit of mercy, forgive me.
Spirit of God, be ever in my heart and on my lips."
- The Holy Spirit is the power behind all Christian witnessing
- The Holy Spirit is the source and power for evangelization.
GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:
* Word of wisdom * Word of knowledge * Faith
* Healing power * Working of miracles * Prophecy
* Discernment of spirits * Gift of tongues * Interpretation of tongues
(1 Corinthians 12: 8-10)
FRUITS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
* Love * Joy * Peace
* Long-suffering * Kindness * Goodness
* Faithfulness * Gentleness * Self-control
(Galatians 5:22-23)
Prayer to the Holy Spirit
"Spirit of God, enliven me.
Spirit of Truth, guide me.
Spirit of Goodness, strengthen me.
Spirit of Love, inflame me.
Spirit of life, sanctify me.
Spirit of mercy, forgive me.
Spirit of God, be ever in my heart and on my lips."
Thursday, September 01, 2005
The Family Tree of Jesus Christ
"The roll of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham: Abraham fathered Isaac, Isaac fathered Jacob, Jacob fathered Judah and his brothers.......Matthan fathered Jacob; and Jacob fathered Joseph the husband of Mary; of her was born Jesus who is called Christ"(Matthew 1: 1-2, 16)
Mary is named in family tree of Jesus Christ. From the beginning of salvation history, God had carved an important niche for Mary. The genealogy teaches us that God's plan for our redemption was formed long ago.
The family tree of Jesus Christ presents a motley crowd. We see high achievers like Abraham, Isaac and David. We also see plain ordinary people like Jesse the father of David. God called each one to perform a unique an irrepeatable task. Mary's unique role was to be the mother of Jesus.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: "Against all human expectation God chooses those who were considered powerless and weak to show forth his faithfulness to his promises: Hannah, the mother of Samuel; Deborah; Ruth; Judith and Esther; and many other women. Mary stands out among the poor and humble of the Lord, who confidently hope for and receive salvation from him. After a long period of waiting the times are fulfilled in her, the exalted Daughter of Sion, and the new plan of salvation is established.'"
Mary is named in family tree of Jesus Christ. From the beginning of salvation history, God had carved an important niche for Mary. The genealogy teaches us that God's plan for our redemption was formed long ago.
The family tree of Jesus Christ presents a motley crowd. We see high achievers like Abraham, Isaac and David. We also see plain ordinary people like Jesse the father of David. God called each one to perform a unique an irrepeatable task. Mary's unique role was to be the mother of Jesus.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: "Against all human expectation God chooses those who were considered powerless and weak to show forth his faithfulness to his promises: Hannah, the mother of Samuel; Deborah; Ruth; Judith and Esther; and many other women. Mary stands out among the poor and humble of the Lord, who confidently hope for and receive salvation from him. After a long period of waiting the times are fulfilled in her, the exalted Daughter of Sion, and the new plan of salvation is established.'"
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Jesus, Mary & Joseph as Refugees
"Get up, take the child and his mother with you, and escape into Egypt, and stay there until I tell you, because Herod intends to search for the child and do away with him. So Joseph got up and, taking the child and his mother with him, left that night for Egypt"(Matthew 2: 13-15).
Mary was present in all the defining moments in the life of her Son. As a result to the threat to the life of Jesus by Herod, Mary, Joseph and Jesus became immigrant refugees in Egypt. How many immigrant refugees are there in the world today? Jesus and His parents had the refugee experience.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: "Christ's whole life is a mystery of redemption. Redemption comes to us above all through the blood of his cross, but this mystery is at work throughout Christ's entire life:
- already in his incarnation through which by becoming poor he enriches us with his poverty;
- in his hidden life which by his submission atones for our disobedience;
- in his word which purifies his hearers;
- in his healing and exorcisms by which 'he took our infirmities and bore our diseases';
- and in his resurrection by which he justifies us;
Christ's whole life is a mystery of recapitulation. All Jesus did, said, had for its aim restoring fallen man to his original vocation:
When Christ became incarnate and was made man, he recapitulated in himself the long history of mankind and procured for us a 'short-cut' to salvation, so that what we have lost in Adam, that is, being in the image and likeness of God, we might recover in Christ Jesus. For this reason Christ experienced all the stages of life, thereby giving communion with God to all men."
Mary was present in all the defining moments in the life of her Son. As a result to the threat to the life of Jesus by Herod, Mary, Joseph and Jesus became immigrant refugees in Egypt. How many immigrant refugees are there in the world today? Jesus and His parents had the refugee experience.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: "Christ's whole life is a mystery of redemption. Redemption comes to us above all through the blood of his cross, but this mystery is at work throughout Christ's entire life:
- already in his incarnation through which by becoming poor he enriches us with his poverty;
- in his hidden life which by his submission atones for our disobedience;
- in his word which purifies his hearers;
- in his healing and exorcisms by which 'he took our infirmities and bore our diseases';
- and in his resurrection by which he justifies us;
Christ's whole life is a mystery of recapitulation. All Jesus did, said, had for its aim restoring fallen man to his original vocation:
When Christ became incarnate and was made man, he recapitulated in himself the long history of mankind and procured for us a 'short-cut' to salvation, so that what we have lost in Adam, that is, being in the image and likeness of God, we might recover in Christ Jesus. For this reason Christ experienced all the stages of life, thereby giving communion with God to all men."
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Be Courageous
"I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."(Joshua 1:9)
The Bible is filled with texts on courage and they point to one lesson: It is God's will for us to be men and women of courage. In fact, it is our birthright. So how do we get courage? I find that the following ideas have served me well as I try to believe God's word and act courageously.
1. Acknowledge that you need courage just like everyone else.
2. Recognize the source of courage.
3. Fill your mind with words of courage from the Bible. Memorize your favorite ones and repeat them often.
4. Reflect on and write down those occasions when you need courage.
5. As events approach that demand courage, prepare yourself through prayer and affirmations.
6. Ask the Holy Spirit again and again to give you courage to fulfill your purpose in life.
7. Like faith, hope and love, courage grows with daily use. Use it or lose it. Be alert to opportunities to exercise your courage.
8. Finally remember this: To be bold, act boldly. As you act boldly, power will flow into you.
See: Some Books on Courage
The Bible is filled with texts on courage and they point to one lesson: It is God's will for us to be men and women of courage. In fact, it is our birthright. So how do we get courage? I find that the following ideas have served me well as I try to believe God's word and act courageously.
1. Acknowledge that you need courage just like everyone else.
2. Recognize the source of courage.
3. Fill your mind with words of courage from the Bible. Memorize your favorite ones and repeat them often.
4. Reflect on and write down those occasions when you need courage.
5. As events approach that demand courage, prepare yourself through prayer and affirmations.
6. Ask the Holy Spirit again and again to give you courage to fulfill your purpose in life.
7. Like faith, hope and love, courage grows with daily use. Use it or lose it. Be alert to opportunities to exercise your courage.
8. Finally remember this: To be bold, act boldly. As you act boldly, power will flow into you.
See: Some Books on Courage
Monday, August 29, 2005
Bible Characters
MY TOP 10 BIBLE CHARACTERS
"There are many different gifts, but it is always the same Spirit; there are many different ways of serving, but it is always the same Lord." (1 Corinthians 12: 4-5)
What do the Bible personalities listed below have in common? Each of them can write CCA (Choice, Call and Anointed) after his name. God chose and called them for a particular mission. He anointed them for a specific task. Their characters and gifts differ and they responded to God's word according to their unique traits of character.
Abraham
Joseph
Moses
Joshua
David
Daniel
Mary
Peter
Paul
Stephen
Commentaries on the Bible
Bible Concordances
Thesaurus of the Bible
"There are many different gifts, but it is always the same Spirit; there are many different ways of serving, but it is always the same Lord." (1 Corinthians 12: 4-5)
What do the Bible personalities listed below have in common? Each of them can write CCA (Choice, Call and Anointed) after his name. God chose and called them for a particular mission. He anointed them for a specific task. Their characters and gifts differ and they responded to God's word according to their unique traits of character.
Abraham
Joseph
Moses
Joshua
David
Daniel
Mary
Peter
Paul
Stephen
Commentaries on the Bible
Bible Concordances
Thesaurus of the Bible
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