"I shall bring them back to live in the heart of Jerusalem, and they will be my people and I shall be their God, faithful and just." (Zechariah 8: 8)
Lord, rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Yahweh shall build me up. "If Yahweh does not build the house, they labor in vain who builds it." Yahweh shall bring me back to live in the heart of Jerusalem. Yahweh shall restore me to His favors.
"Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you." (Matthew 21: 31)
The tax collectors and prostitutes heard the word of God and amended their lives. The members of the household of God heard the word of God and resisted conversion. Many are called but few are chosen.
"Have in you the same attitude that is also in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 2: 5)
What specific attitude is Paul talking about in this scripture? Probably humility.
Christ set for us an inimitable example of humility in His life. Imagine the king washing the feet of his servants. Imagine the president serving the poor at table not just occasionally for the camera but for real. St. Louis of France whose feast is yesterday, 25th of August had in him the same attitude that is also in Christ Jesus. He frequently served the poor at table.
"Father, you show your almighty power in your mercy and forgiveness. Continue to fill us with your gifts of love. Help us to hurry towards the eternal life you promise and come to share in the joys of your kingdom…." (Liturgical prayer on the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
How does God show His all compassing, awesome power? Through mercy and forgiveness.
How does man show his miniscule power? Through violence and destruction.
"If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him renounce himself and take up his cross everyday and follow me." (Luke 9: 23)
From the list below, which does God wants us to renounce?
Or some of everything?
The Holy Spirit will help us through the grace of the present moment to know what to renounce and to comply.
"For I Yahweh declares – shall be a wall of fire all round her and I shall be the glory within her." (Zechariah 2: 9)
Yahweh shall be a fire wall round his people to protect and to guide them. But if God is a wall of fire round his people, why does evil seem to penetrate sometimes?
Christ's life, death and resurrection completely changed the definition of suffering for the Christian.
"Do not fear those who can destroy the body. But fear rather he who has the power to destroy body and soul in hell." The ultimate evil is sin and hell.
"But you, who do you say that I am?" (Luke 9: 20)
Who is Jesus Christ to me?
He is my God, my Savior, my King, my Boss, my best Friend and my Companion.
