theJourney(beginning)

20021031

 

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, October 31, 2002
The Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ephesians 6:10-20
Psalm 144:1-2,9-10
Luke 13:31-35

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Today's First Reading tells us how we are to defend ourselves from all the cunning deception and assault of the devil. It makes us acknowledge with deepening awareness the presence of evil in the world and its unrelenting plan to destroy the goodness God desires for us.

Paul methodically points out what we are to do to protect ourselves against evil - equipping ourselves like warriors with the armor of God. It is a useful analogy and reminds us that we cannot resist evil without God's help. The words most useful (to me), from the song, "I am the Bread of Life" are that God's faithfulness is our shield.

In those terms we begin to understand that we have a defense that is impenetrable: God's faithfulness. This should give us cause for great hope and joy. Evil will not win. The powers of darkness are no match for the power of Light.

Let us then be diligent in our faithfulness to the Faithful One with the sure and certain hope that His victory is ours.

- Donna Raye Nelson, ocds (drn3rd@hotmail.com)

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joachim 4:19 AM

20021030

 

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, October 30, 2002
Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ephesians 6:1-9
Psalm 145:10-14
Luke 13:22-30

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

All authority comes from God, and should be used in His name and with His gentle restraint. How fortunate I was to have pious and gentle parents who never abused their authority with their children. And how difficult it is for parents today to know how to exercise authority against children of a different culture than ours! We must pray for parents, that they never abandon the struggle to guide their children in right values, and discipline them when they wander. Parents who fail to do this risk being abandoned or mistreated in later life by their own children.

What judgment awaits those parents who have "spoiled" their children! Or pastors who have failed in shepherding the flock entrusted to their care! Or government officials who have neglected to care for the poor, the marginalized, the powerless! Or those who fail to enlighten those who wield authority when they see it abused! Lord Jesus, send your Spirit to strengthen us and make us wise in the uses of any authority given to us over our brothers and sisters.

- Msgr. Paul Whitmore
(smartins@twcny.rr.com)

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joachim 4:17 AM

20021029

 

The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, October 29, 2002
The Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ephesians 5:21-33
Psalm 128:1-5
Luke 13:18-21

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"What is the Kingdom of God like?"

What is the Kingdom of God like? It is like the smallest thing you can possibly imagine taking root and eventually becoming the largest. It is like a little bit of something, which when mixed with the whole, affects the entire amount.

The Kingdom of God begins when we open the door of our selves to the action of Christ. When we let Christ in a little bit, our lives can be transformed. It is as though without Christ we sit in a small, lightless, airless room. When we crack the door open just a little bit both light and air stream in. It may not be much at first, but suddenly we can begin to make out the contours of the room around us.

But this action is only the beginning of the Kingdom of God. When we act on what has been revealed, when we cooperate with the changes in our lives, we bring them out into the world. Everyone can suddenly see the transformation in us, and they wonder about it. Thus, the grain that changed us is brought forth to change the world. We become the leaven or the mustard seed. We serve as the invitation for others to enter the Kingdom of God.

That is why it is so important to pray -- even when we don't feel like it. Even when it seems to do nothing, still pray, pray, pray. By prayer we keep the door open. We resist the pressure of the world to have it slam shut on us and block out the light. Prayer keeps the light and air flowing in, and gives us the strength to open the door more than a crack. It gives us the strength to wholeheartedly submit ourselves to the Kingdom and the action of God in the world. It gives us the strength to accept the transformation God intends for us.

- JuandelaCruz, TOCarm

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joachim 4:20 AM

20021028

 

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, October 28, 2002
The Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time
Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ephesians 2:19-22
Psalm 19:2-5
Luke 6:12-16

A reflection on today's Scripture:

"You who once were far off have become near by the blood of Christ." (Ephesians 2:13)

St. Paul tells us in a simple, beautiful way what it means to be a Christian. He reminds us that we are no longer alienated from God by sin; we are no longer lonely wanderers aimlessly traveling in a strange land. Now, forgiven by Christ's shed blood, we are members of God's household.

On earth this household is Christ's Church built upon the teachings of the Apostles and the prophets, individuals chosen and prepared by Him to carry forth a sacred trust, to make known His Word, His truth and love personified, Who leads us to salvation, eternal life with Him. This mission has been entrusted to our Bishops, but all of us have a part to play in building the Church. To do this we must be ever mindful that it is Christ Himself, a finely hewn and solid rock, the capstone that tops the edifice, who makes it a holy temple fit to be God's dwelling place on earth. Christ does this through His Holy Spirit who imbues us, each individual stone in this structure willing to obey Him, with His truth and love. The Church then becomes Christ's dwelling place on earth, drawing everyone to Himself through her.

What will draw others to Christ's Church? It must remain sound and consistent in its teachings, become a safe haven where the world can find healing from its sin; where it can see the good effects of love and truth at work; where it can learn the wisdom of God; where it can tap into God's grace, the only means through which humanity can ultimately live in true justice, peace and joy. We all have a part in this apostolate.

Almighty God,
Increase our faith, hope and love so that we may do with joyful hearts whatever you ask of us and so strengthen Your Church.
Amen.

- Marie Bocko, ocds (mlbocko@borg.com)

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joachim 4:18 AM

20021027

 

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, October 27, 2002
The Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Exodus 22:20-26
Psalm 18:2-4,47,51
1 Thessalonians 1:5-10
Matthew 22:34-40

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Again, the Pharisees tried to trip up Jesus by asking: "Teacher, which commandment of the law is the greatest?" Jesus replied:

"You shall love the Lord your God
with your whole heart,
with your whole soul,
and with all your mind."

And the second commandment, is like it:

"You shall love your neighbor as yourself."

Although I enjoy the complexity of our technological world, I'm delighted by the pure simplicity and wisdom of Jesus! The forces that were at work in Jesus' time are still in effect today. We think we can legislate perfection and harmony into our civil law. We even have a multitude of wonderful writings that explain every imaginable subject of faith and morals. Yet, the simple statements of Jesus cut right to the heart of reality, every time.

One of the most important steps to holiness is to regularly spend serious time reading and meditating upon the Gospels, so that we might learn the wisdom taught by Jesus. For me, the difficult part is applying that wisdom to each moment of my short life.

Jesus, meek and humble of heart,
make my heart like unto thine.
Amen.

- Joachim, ocds

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joachim 4:38 AM

20021026

 

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, October 26, 2002
Twenty-eighth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ephesians 4:7-16
Psalm 122:1-5
Luke 13:1-9

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

It is easy to ask "where is God?" when we look around us and see so much turmoil and discord in the world. The scripture readings of today are a good reminder that God, in fact, does provide the gifts and talents needed for us to have a world of harmony. There are those who teach, cook, heal, entertain and others to provide all that we as humans need.

Perhaps the question is not "where is God?", but rather "what are we as a world community doing with the gifts and talents God has granted to build His Kingdom?" Have we used them for that purpose, or rather for our own power and glory. Sometimes people are tempted to forget the Source of our talents when everything is going great.

The gospel parable of the fig tree reminds us that one day God will ask for an accounting of the gifts and talents we have been granted. The Feast of All Souls, soon upon us, brings this to mind. Let us praise God and humbly be enriched by the talents of others!

O God,
Please help me to be a good and faithful steward.
Amen.

- Joan of Jesus, ocds

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joachim 4:49 AM

20021025

 

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, October 26, 2002
Twenty-eighth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ephesians 4:7-16
Psalm 122:1-5
Luke 13:1-9

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

It is easy to ask "where is God?" when we look around us and see so much turmoil and discord in the world. The scripture readings of today are a good reminder that God, in fact, does provide the gifts and talents needed for us to have a world of harmony. There are those who teach, cook, heal, entertain and others to provide all that we as humans need.

Perhaps the question is not "where is God?", but rather "what are we as a world community doing with the gifts and talents God has granted to build His Kingdom?" Have we used them for that purpose, or rather for our own power and glory. Sometimes people are tempted to forget the Source of our talents when everything is going great.

The gospel parable of the fig tree reminds us that one day God will ask for an accounting of the gifts and talents we have been granted. The Feast of All Souls, soon upon us, brings this to mind. Let us praise God and humbly be enriched by the talents of others!

O God,
Please help me to be a good and faithful steward.
Amen.

- Joan of Jesus, ocds

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joachim 5:17 AM

20021024

 

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, October 24, 2002
The Twenty-ninth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Anthony Claret

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ephesians 3:14-21
Psalm 33:1-2,4-5,11-12,18-19
Luke 12:49-53

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

I almost wanted to overlook today's difficult gospel and write on something more uplifting. I couldn't however, and I'm impelled by the Holy Spirit to point out Jesus' disturbing words regarding how He has come, not to establish peace on the earth, but division.

Sin has so shattered the peacefulness God intended, that often our dearest relationships suffer division and we find ourselves in conflict with those we love the most. However, faithfulness to God's Word does not allow us to be complacent about evil. Jesus teaches that complacency about sin must be demolished, recognized for what it is and not allowed to foment. This often means that those who are dedicated to the establishment of God's Kingdom, must, by their lives and example, probe others to examine their lifestyle and values. Without question, this creates tension and even division among those who are otherwise affiliated and close.

Don't be surprised then if you find yourself at odds with those you know and love the most. Our initial response may be one of sadness and loss, but we are promised that by prayer, the hardened hearts of others may be changed. Let us remember that God has conquered the world, but at the price of His own beloved Son. Let us pray that in union with Christ's sacrificial suffering we may endure division so that one day we all might be one.

- Donna Raye Nelson, ocds (drn3rd@hotmail.com)

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joachim 4:35 AM

20021023

 

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, October 23, 2002
Twenty-ninth Week in Ordinary Time
St. John of Capistrano

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ephesians 3:2-12
Isaiah 12:2-6
Luke 12:39-48

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

What was life like without Christ? Paul contrasts life without Christ as the life of a slave; life with Christ is like that of a freeman, a citizen of a great empire, with all the rights attached. Paul, as a Roman citizen, invoked his personal privilege as a citizen on several occasions. Do we appreciate what a great honor it is for us to be reckoned as a citizen of the Heavenly Kingdom? Probably not. Reflection on this fact can bring us from depression to elation, from darkness to light, and from a pilgrim hesitant and fearful, to a pilgrim confident, striding forward on the path we know will lead us to eternal fulfillment. The Gospel counsels us to be vigilant in these matters, not to let thieves break in and steal our citizenship papers. We are told that many break-ins are "inside jobs". We must be careful that we ourselves are not the thieves! Through weakness, sloth, indifference, or outright evil action, we can lose our inheritance. In a famous comic strip, Pogo announces that we have met the enemy, and the enemy is us! St. Philip Neri prayed daily, "Beware of Philip today, Lord, for Philip may betray thee"!

- Msgr. Paul Whitmore
(smartins@twcny.rr.com)

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joachim 5:13 AM

20021022

 

The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, October 22, 2002
The Twenty-ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ephesians 2:1-10
Psalm 100:12:13-21
Luke 12:13-21

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"For He is our peace . . ."

This is one of those phrases that is so packed with all sorts of meanings that it would take a great deal of time and determination to properly unpack it. This passage from Ephesians would be productive for lectio for a long period of time.

St Paul tells us that Jesus is our peace with the Father. That is, through the sacrifice of the crucifixion, Jesus established a gateway or a bridge uniting fallen humankind and God. He opened a path back up that did not involve elaborate ritual washings or adherence to a difficult and variously interpreted law. His love for us connects to His love for the Father and creates a bridge of Love that we cross to enter into eternal life. In this way, Jesus became our peace, our reconciliation with the Father.

But Jesus is also our peace in the space of our heart. If we focus all of our energy in doing each act as Jesus would have it done, in doing everything we do for the love of Jesus, we can only know joy and peace. No one can take away from us the love of God that dwells within us. The third person of The Trinity is the Spirit of God, the Love of the Father and the Son, indwelling and making a connection to that bridge of Love that Jesus constructed through His death and resurrection.

When we trust Jesus, and hand over all that we have and all that we are, the end result is, and must be, Peace.

- JuandelaCruz, TOCarm

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joachim 5:39 AM

20021021

 

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, October 21, 2002
The Twenty-ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ephesians 2: 1-10
Psalm 100: 1-5
Luke 12: 13-21

A reflection on today's Scripture:

"We are his handiwork created in Christ Jesus for good works." (Ephesians 2:10)

I recall reading many years ago of the Collier brothers who lived as recluses in a house so filled with things that walking through its rooms was like trying to find one's way through a maze of darkened tunnels. How sad to live in such poverty amid seeming plenty, to risk becoming lost in one's possessions.

Such would be the fate of the rich man depicted in today's Gospel, one who put trust in his worldly treasures, destined to be destroyed by time, while neglecting to seek the imperishable treasure of eternal life offered to him by God. Christ reminds us of life's mutability, that we must ever be prepared to meet our Creator; for we do not know the day nor the hour when we will be called to give an accounting of ourselves to Him who gave us life and purpose.

Paul reiterates this message to the Ephesians, reminding them that God called us forth into being, to do certain good works He has prepared for us to do. From the greatest to the least of us, we all have God-given tasks to accomplish, purposes to fulfill in this life. Therefore, this should be our major preoccupation, letting nothing of this world distract us from learning and accomplishing God's ordained will. Let us never question that we are indeed our brother's keeper.

It is by grace through faith, both gifts from God, that we are enabled to complete our life's purposes and achieve salvation. If we truly desire to know and do God's will, we have only to approach Him in prayer and offer ourselves to Him as He has offered Himself to us in Christ. He will then show us the way and open wide the door into His kingdom.

Loving Father, Source of our lives,
inspire us by Your Spirit
that we may follow Christ
and in Him accomplish Your will for us perfectly.
Amen.

- Marie Bocko, ocds

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joachim 4:24 AM

20021020

 

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, October 20, 2002
The Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Isaiah 45:1,4-6
Psalm 96:1,3-5,7-10
1 Thessalonians 1:1-5
Matthew 22:15-21

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"Then give to Caesar what is Caesar's, but give to God what is God's."

The Jews were trapped by an oppressive foreign government and they were powerless to change the situation. We too, are finding ourselves in an increasingly oppressive government of bureaucracy over which we have relatively little control. Normally, our only hope is at the elections.

Could there be more?

Have we considered organizing or encouraging Christian principles in politics? Mindful that all public law should be derived from basic God-given principles, shouldn't we be watchful that government stays close to those principles? Have we considered public office, beginning at local levels and then working upwards? If principled people fail to do this, who do you suppose will make the decisions that we'll be obliged to follow?

It's easy enough to vote for those who openly espouse a virtuous political path, but it is disaster when there is no such candidate. It isn't too late to think of ways to change our country from within. Let us begin by becoming habitually prayerful people drawing ever-closer to God. Let us seek opportunity to speak and act as people of virtue. With God's help and persistence, doors will open for good people to become God's representatives.

- Joachim, ocds

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joachim 4:32 AM

20021019

 

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, October 12, 2002
Twenty-seventh Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Galatians 3:22-29
Psalm 105: 2-3,4-5,6-7
Gospel: Luke 11:27-28

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

The story is told that it takes a long time to train an elephant for tricks in a carnival, and during that time the elephant is kept chained to a post. It cannot go very far. At some point when the trainer takes the chain away the elephant does not realize or appreciate that it is free and continues to remain in the same small, confined space, never realizing the value of freedom. In a way that is part of the meaning of today's readings.

In the first reading it is discussed that before the time of Christ all that people knew were the constraints of the law. People lived their entire lives according to these many rules, many of them good rules in themselves. When Christ came He leads us beyond the laws. By baptism we are set free to become adopted sons and daughters of God. As Christians we are free to love as Christ loved, not because of some law in some book someplace. We can become a new people, all treated as equals, as members of the Body of Christ.

The gospel message of today helps us with the means or method to live this life as free Christians.. It is a simple one, and yet, really, all we need to do, is read and study the word of God and adhere to that word. Our bibles are so precious! Let us find time to often study and enjoy the rich messages!

- Joan of Jesus, ocds

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joachim 4:17 AM

20021018

 

The Catholic Calendar for Friday, October 18, 2002
Twenty-eighth Week in Ordinary Time
Saint Luke, evangelist

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Timothy 4:10-17b
Psalm 145:10-11,12-13,17-18.
Luke 10:1-9

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Luke, the gentle companion of Paul, spread God's Word along with Paul, proclaiming the gospel message and telling the people of God's love, for everyone, especially the lowly and the poor. The friendship of Luke and Paul grew because their love of Jesus empowered them to live out the heart of the Gospel allowing them to spread the good news of God's kingdom.

Focus today on how you can personally spread the good news -- how you can reach out to the lowly and the poor, how you can harvest friends and companions for Jesus. "The harvest is rich but the workers are few." (10:2) Through the grace of the Holy Spirit, daily prayer, Mass and Communion, we can respond to this challenging mission to which we're called, whatever our vocation or state of life. The call is as new today as it was when Jesus sent out the seventy-two. What is your response?

O Lord, as I greet this new day,
help me to be mindful of your Divine Love
and to be the hands of Christ to everyone I meet today.
Allow your Holy Spirit to be my strength
as I strive to be your disciple. Amen!

- Deacon Bill Powers (uujpow@aol.com)

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joachim 4:40 AM

20021017

 

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, October 17, 2002
The Twenty-eighth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Ignatius of Antioch

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ephesians 1:3-10
Psalm 98:1-6
Luke 11:47-54

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In today's gospel Jesus rightfully accuses the Pharisees of their use of the law to further their own narrow and self-serving interests. After hearing the accusations, they begin what seems to be a systematic program to trap Him using, not surprisingly, the law.

In our own time we have seen instances where manipulation of civil and moral law promotes self-serving purposes and fails to protect and nurture those they should safeguard. When such practices are illuminated, they're often not seen in the light of the truth they reveal. By calculated manipulation, the truth is perverted to suit convenient conventions. Furthermore, the very ones who try to promote what is good, holy and true, are often cleverly and successfully demonized

For followers of Christ, none of this should be surprising. Jesus, innocent and pure, Truth itself, was persecuted for revealing and living the truth. Let us then not be overwhelmed when efforts for goodness are countered by threats and ridicule. Let us take courage by the example of Jesus whose final victory we share.

With this thought in mind, let Jesus' faithfulness to His mission be our armor, our shield as we dedicate ourselves in imitation of Him for the salvation of ourselves and that of the world.

- Donna Raye Nelson, ocds (drn3rd@hotmail.com)

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joachim 4:16 AM

20021016

 

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, October 16, 2002
Twenty-eighth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Hedwig
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Galatians 5:18-25
Psalm 1:1-4,6
Luke 11:42-46

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

I often meet people in my ministry who are convinced that the Catholic Church is too demanding, and defends outmoded rules for living. I must confess that, as a pastor, I often feel a bit overwhelmed myself with meeting all the demands of the chancery, the parishioners, and so many vendors who would persuade one that the perfect parish is a parish equipped with everything from latest snow repellent to the most stylish vestments. It's hard to convince people that religion is meant to bring us freedom and childlike joy. When I get that hemmed-in and frustrated mood, it is good to heed the voice of St. Paul, listing those beautiful fruits of the spirit. What a relief! Dump all those catalogs, forget the complaints and the smallness of factions, and just concentrate on living in the love of the Spirit -- and your heart will fly!

- Msgr. Paul Whitmore

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joachim 4:28 AM

20021015

 

The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, October 15, 2002
The Twenty-eighth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Teresa of Jesus, virgin and doctor of the Church

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Galatians 5:1-6
Psalm 119:41,43-45,47-48
Luke 11:37-41

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"For freedom, Christ set us free"

Today is the memorial feastday of St. Teresa of Jesus, reformer of the Carmelite Order and doctor of the Church. Today's epistle to the Galatians about freedom is particularly appropriate to the life of St. Teresa.

Early in her life, St. Teresa was subject to reading "bad novels," probably harmless romances of swordplay and chivalry. She was also addicted to idle chatter. Even in her early years as nun she would receive many visitors and chat the day away.

Then there occurred a mysterious illness that completely debilitated her and changed her life. Through that illness she came to understand the transcendent graces of Jesus Christ. She realized how much she had neglected Him in pursuit of those smaller, lesser pleasures.

God Himself intervened in her life to set her free from being an ordinary, perhaps even lax nun, into becoming the powerful dynamo that would reform an order and galvanize the entire Church in crisis. Her beautiful life and experiences were to transform literature and spiritual understanding from then onward.

Jesus freed us so that we would not be in bondage to the world, the flesh, or the devil. He freed us to love God the Father more perfectly. He made us for freedom; and with that freedom, we might move mountains just as St. Teresa of Jesus transformed the spiritual landscape of the world, showing generations the pathway to God.

- JuandelaCruz, TOCarm

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joachim 4:26 AM

20021014

 

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, October 14, 2002
The Twenty-eighth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Callistus, pope and martyr

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Galatians 4:22-24,26-27,31--5:1
Psalm 113:1-7
Luke 11:29-32

A reflection on today's Scripture:

Therefore, brothers, we are children not of the slave woman
but of the freeborn woman. (Galatians 4:31)

We well know the dehumanizing and demoralizing effects of slavery on those victimized by being treated like property and so denied their most basic human rights. But for a brief time let us consider that even more wretched is the state of the slave-masters, not only those in the past but also those in our modern world who inflict serious indignities upon helpless employees. Consider how today many businesses still exploit, abuse and cheat their employees both here and abroad. Christ tells us that the worst possible slavery is a personal addiction to sin; for individuals entrapped in such behavior will experience spiritual death, an eternity of suffering caused by willfully separating themselves from God.

What St. Paul told the Galatians nearly two thousand years ago still applies today. We are all sons and daughters of a freeborn woman, legitimate children of God born in freedom and called to live in a manner that gives honor and glory to our Father, in peace, justice, truth and love. Christ proclaimed this message of freedom at great cost; He was disbelieved, reviled, persecuted and killed although He had performed many signs that manifested God's power residing in Him. His audiences, past and present, remain deaf to the truth and blind to His identity because so many live entirely in the flesh, totally ignorant of the spiritual dimension of human life.

We can re-connect with our spiritual roots through humility and selflessness, by believing in Christ, the living Word of God, by building an intimate relationship with Jesus through prayer, by listening to and obeying the Holy Spirit who slowly and sometimes painfully enables us to see and be freed of our sins and be re-created in the image of Christ. Man's inhumanity to man will continue until we acknowledge that we are God's, created to live in Him Who is love.

Blessed Savior, Rock of all ages,
inspire us and aid us to build our lives
on the firm spiritual foundation you have established
and so become Your earthly temple. Amen.

- Marie Bocko, ocds

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©1986-2002 The Way, The Truth, The Life

joachim 4:19 AM

20021011

 

----------------------------------------------------
Ooops, what’s going on here? Well, we’re off on our annual Discalced Carmelite Retreat for the weekend. To find the reflection for the correct day, just scroll down. - joachim, ocds
----------------------------------------------------

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, October 13, 2002
The Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Isaiah 25:6-10
Psalm 23:1-6
Philippians 4:12-14,19-20
Matthew 22:1-14

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

On this Sunday, we are given additional glimpses of the Perfect Future Life promised for those who accept the Word of God. The prophet Isaiah glows about its magnificence, St. Paul relates the strength God has given him on the journey, and in today's Gospel Jesus describes it in the parable of the Wedding Banquet.

We should not be too quick to pass by this parable, because within it, we can clearly gauge our own response to God's call to holiness. Have we rejected the very essence of the call? Have we glossed over the urgings of this Gospel that should probe us in our examinations of conscience? Have we lost our simple, unwavering faith, that we once possessed as children? Has pride and covetousness crept into our lives, like the slowly shifting desert sands around the oasis of the Holy Spirit within our souls?

O holy soul, born of the love and generosity of our Father, God the Creator, resist the black cloak of Satan's pride. Fan the flames of the Holy Spirit within, that you may fully learn the path to salvation proclaimed by our Brother and Savior: Jesus the Christ. Amen, Amen!

- Joachim, ocds

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The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, October 12, 2002
Twenty-seventh Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Galatians 3:22-29
Psalm 105: 2-3,4-5,6-7
Gospel: Luke 11:27-28

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

The story is told that it takes a long time to train an elephant for tricks in a carnival, and during that time the elephant is kept chained to a post. It cannot go very far. At some point when the trainer takes the chain away the elephant does not realize or appreciate that it is free and continues to remain in the same small, confined space, never realizing the value of freedom. In a way that is part of the meaning of today's readings.

In the first reading it is discussed that before the time of Christ all that people knew were the constraints of the law. People lived their entire lives according to these many rules, many of them good rules in themselves. When Christ came He leads us beyond the laws. By baptism we are set free to become adopted sons and daughters of God. As Christians we are free to love as Christ loved, not because of some law in some book someplace. We can become a new people, all treated as equals, as members of the Body of Christ.

The gospel message of today helps us with the means or method to live this life as free Christians.. It is a simple one, and yet, really, all we need to do, is read and study the word of God and adhere to that word. Our bibles are so precious! Let us find time to often study and enjoy the rich messages!

- Joan of Jesus, ocds (jmurphy@utica.com)

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The Catholic Calendar for Friday, October 11, 2002
Twenty-seventh Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Galatians 3:7-14
Psalm 111:1-6
Luke 11:15-26

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Jesus went about His mission to spread the word of God, to forgive sin, to feed the hungry, to heal the sick, to cure the blind and to drive out demons. Those in power, the Pharisees, were the ones who were blind and hungry for revenge. They could not accept that Jesus had the power from God to free his people from bondage. The hearts of the leaders were hard and unbending.

How do we react to the signs of God's saving power in our lives and the lives of others around us? Do we go about our lives living in sin, staying angry with someone we are supposed to love and neglecting our baptism promises? If we are, then we must turn to the Lord to ask His forgiveness. Then, with grace from the Holy Spirit, we can spread God's word, feed the hungry and pray for the healing of our sick - both friends and enemies alike. The Kingdom of God is all around us in all whom we meet each day.

Heavenly Father,
You sent your Son Jesus to show us the way to your kingdom.
Help us to accomplish your work here on earth. Amen.

- Deacon Bill Powers (uujpow@aol.com)

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joachim 4:17 AM

20021010

 

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, October 10, 2002
The Twenty-seventh Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Galatians 3:1-5
Luke 1:69-75
Luke 11:1-4

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In today's First Reading we hear St. Paul speaking to the Galatians in words that are quite unlike what we might expect. “Have you gone out of your minds,” he says, did some one, “cast a spell over you”, “how could you be so stupid?” With these words we begin to see the frustration and sadness that is experienced when someone rejects the Gospel message, especially someone who has heard it and perhaps even embraced and lived it. In Paul's day there was no lack of such individuals and unfortunately there is no lack of such people today, as we see non-Catholic assemblies filled with people who once were members of our beloved Church.

Like St. Paul, we too might wonder if someone has lost their mind, leaving the Catholic Church and the wonderful sacramental life it provides and safeguards. And for what?

Has someone cast a spell over our many loved ones who once were practicing and believing Catholics and now completely reject the Church and all her life-giving and life-saving teachings?

The answer must be yes, otherwise how could something so confounding be accomplished? What then are we to do? Should we challenge them like Paul did the Galatians? Or are we to do what we all have the ability and opportunity to do: that is to pray that one day the lost will be found, the separated rejoined, the unbelieving converted.

Often it seems that praying is such a little thing to do in the face of so much trouble; when in fact, it is the most valuable and efficacious thing that can be done. For when we pray, we are not expecting our merits to change hardened hearts, but rather the Blood of the crucified Christ.

“Whoever asks, receives; whoever seeks, finds; whoever knocks, is admitted.” (Luke 11:10)

- Donna Raye Nelson, ocds

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joachim 4:23 AM

20021009

 

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, October 9, 2002
Twenty-seventh Week in Ordinary Time
St. Denis and companions, martyrs
St. John Leonardi

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Galatians 2:1-2,7-14
Psalm 117:1-2
Luke 11:1-4

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Peter must have been thoroughly embarrassed at the public rebuke he received from Paul. And the accusation was a serious one - hypocrisy. But look at Peter's dilemma! Rather than risk disharmony in the new church, he decides not to risk alienating this faction of "circumcisers." In so doing, he was about to embarrass the new pagan converts by not eating with them. How very difficult it is to decide on a thoroughly truthful course of action, one consistent with our beliefs and principles, one that may stir up indignation, division, and even harm to unity. To follow the right course of action, we need to resort to prayer. We can do no better than to pray the Lord's Prayer. It immediately places everything in focus: "...Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done...." It gives power to the present moment, which is often the critical moment of decision. Lord, if I am true to You, then I will be true to myself.

- Msgr. Paul Whitmore

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joachim 4:29 AM

20021008

 

The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, October 8, 2002
The Twenty-seventh Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Galatians 1:13-24
Psalm 139;1-3,13-15
Luke 10:38-42

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

“There is need of only one thing . . . “ (Luke 10:42)

How often do we hear that we are all Marthas, busy about the business of the world -- care-worn, concerned and utterly lost in our selves. If only that were true. I suspect that most of us are a good deal more caught up in the busyness" of the world that performs no real function.

At least Martha was concerned about hospitality. She wished to make her valued guest feel important. She was bothered because the entire burden of hospitality seemed to be placed upon her. But the reality that Jesus reveals is that they need not wait upon Him. He is there for them, and simply waiting and listening is the hospitality He seeks.

How many of us are busy as Martha is busy? Really. How many of us create our own artificial busyness so that we won't be trapped into listening to the Lord. See, there is the problem. We escort kids from ballet, to soccer match, to 4-H, to art, to piano lessons, to whatever else and we keep ourselves in an endless round of busyness.

Give yourself a break in the next week or so, take the better part. Sit down for half and hour. Pick up your Bible and visit with the Lord. No, don't jabber at Him, simply listen to what He has to say to you. If you start doing it (and you may already have) you'll discover that you never want to stop.

- JuandelaCruz, TOCarm (sriddle415@yahoo.com)

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joachim 4:16 AM

20021007

 

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, October 7, 2002
The Twenty-seventh Week in Ordinary Time
Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Galatians 1:6-12
Psalm 111:1-2,7-10
Luke 10:25-37

A reflection on today's Scripture:

If anyone preaches to you a gospel other than the one you have
received, let that one be accursed! (see Galatians 1:9)

Today's feast emphasizes the importance of faith; that is, believing and acting upon the truths that come through the Church established by Jesus Christ, the unchanging Word of God. Pope Pius V initiated this day to honor our Holy Mother for her aid, invoked through the praying of the rosary, resulting in victory for the Christian fleet at Lepanto. Such simple, humble faith is becoming increasingly rare in a world intoxicated with pride, greed and self-will, shifting its faith from God to self.

Paul's letter to the Galatians addresses this illness, one that has infected the Church, especially over the past two generations since Vatican II, during which many Bishops, theologians and priests worldwide have misinterpreted these documents and usurped papal authority, putting their own spin on matters of faith and morals. They presumed to alter Catholicism in hopes of better suiting modern tastes, of attracting those who find our Faith too strict, not offering them sufficient moral choices. In consequence, much confusion exists among our "would be" faithful, many of whom now question Scripture and Tradition and support divorce and remarriage, fornication, artificial contraception and insemination, homosexuality and abortion. We ought not be surprised at the drastic decrease in those entering the priesthood and religious vocations; there is little left of the Faith to distinguish Catholicism from the secular world, little that would inspire one to make sacrifices--low salary, celibacy, etc..

The Modernist's cry is that God accepts and forgives all. But they omit that God forgives all only to repentant sinners, those who see as evil any practice destructive to God's created order, those who accept the sanctity and nobility of human life, those who do not exploit and use others for selfish ends. God made us for Himself, not as puppets to be manipulated but as beings made to participate in His holiness and love. Only if we accept the Church's truths revealed in Christ and assent to live them by His grace, can we build a world community pervaded by peace and genuine freedom.

Blessed Redeemer,
keep us faithful to Your truth,
give us the wisdom to see error
and the courage to reject the biddings of this world.
Amen.

- Marie Bocko, ocds

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joachim 4:22 AM

20021006

 

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, October 6, 2002
The Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
Respect Life Sunday

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Isaiah 5:1-7
Psalm 80:9,12-16,19-20
Philippians 4:6-9
Matthew 21:33-43

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Through the ongoing narration of the Old Testament, we have learned the entire saga of the Jewish people - the exodus, the promised land, their falling from grace, their captivity and eventually the coming of the Messiah and then their rejection of Him. The Israelites are the vineyard of today's scripture readings.

The allegory has significance because the Israelites were set as examples by God to warn us and to show us a microcosm of the greater picture of all humanity for all ages. Through the message of Good News given us by Christ, we have learned in great detail how to respond to God's grace, how to handle spiritual adversity when we're confronted by it. Also through today's parables, we learn what will happen when we reject those teachings of Jesus.

The Church emphasizes the sanctity of all life by designating today as "Respect Life Sunday." Her teaching of life is spelled out clearly both in the new Catechism and in the universally acclaimed encyclical "Humanae Vitae." There is no question as to the sanctity and worth of all human life and it is enthusiastically accepted by good people everywhere. The results of rejecting this central Christian belief are spelled out in the inspired readings we hear today at Mass.

- Joachim, ocds

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joachim 4:33 AM

20021005

 

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, October 5, 2002
Twenty-sixth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Job 42:1-3,5-6,12-16
Psalm 119:66,71,75,91,125,130,135
Luke 10:17-24

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned, you have revealed them to the childlike." (Luke 10:21)

Today's first reading is an extract from the book of Job and is perhaps one of the most important pieces of the book, as it recounts the loyal servant Job's response to the Lord after the terrible trials of suffering he has endured. Despite experiencing suffering of health, grieving, loss of status, loss of hope and a sense of isolation and desolation, Job finally acknowledges his lowly status in comparison to the glory, power and wonder of the Lord. It is only in acceptance of all things provided by the Lord, good and bad, that Job achieves understanding and enjoys future blessings and long life.

There is always a tension between our ego and our higher spiritual self which searches continually for God. Sometimes when we're going through difficult times we ask "Why me? What have I done to deserve this?" Very often our path to eternal salvation is clouded - we are not open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit because we're consumed with ourselves and our own purposes. And often it is only when we struggle through our difficulties and are weakened by the harsh circumstances and realities of life, that we eventually hear the voice of the Lord more strongly and have the opportunity to accept His calling to follow Him. Blessed are we who are too weak to impose ourselves on the world but rely on the Lord for our strength and direction!

Today let us remember that all that we have is given from God and for Him to use - we are blessed to experience life and God has given each of us life so that we can fulfill the wonderful purpose He has for each of us. Yes God has a plan for us! We might not understand what's happening in our lives, but let us trust in the Lord's purpose and know that He is with us every step of the way. We don't have all the answers, nor do we need them; instead, let us trust in the Lord and He will show us the way to peace and joy.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

- Cliodhna Doyle (Cliodhna.Doyle@oceanfree.net)

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joachim 4:25 AM