theJourney(beginning)

20021129

 

The Catholic Calendar for Friday, November 29, 2002
Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 20:1-4,11--21:2
Psalm 84:3-6,8
Luke 21:29-33

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"Severest of consequences..."

Frightening words fill our daily newspapers these days. The gospel parable tells us that the kingdom of God is near. Just imagine being present and "seeing the new heavens and a new earth...a new Jerusalem, the Holy City...beautiful...." (Rv.21:1,2) The world that we live in is hearing rumbles of war in the Middle East, Persian Gulf, and Nigeria. Imagine the residents of Jerusalem waking up to a New Jerusalem, a Holy City, beautiful-where God's people could smell the fragrance of peace instead of turmoil.

The people of God that inhabit this earth recognize that "He lives among his people" (Rv.21:3) and we try to walk in the footsteps of Christ following His Word and praying for the grace to always remain close to Him. The "severest of consequences" in diplomatic language implies use of strong force. We don't know God's plan, however we do know that Jesus is "the way the truth and the life" and wants peace for all his people. Let us renew our trust in God, praying always for peace and for tranquility to remain in our minds and hearts.

Thank you Father
for all you have given us.
Send forth your Holy Spirit
to renew the face of the earth.
Amen!

- Deacon Bill Powers (uujpow@aol.com)

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

joachim 4:38 AM

20021128

 

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, November 28, 2002
The Thirty-fourth week in Ordinary Time
(Thanksgiving Day - USA)

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Sirach 50:22-24
Psalm 100:2-5
1 Corinthians 1:3-9
Luke 17:11-19

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Today the people of the United States pause in thanksgiving. It is good that we do, and yet, shouldn't every day and, indeed, every moment be one of thanksgiving? It really isn't enough to have just one special day or even fleeting moments of thankfulness throughout the day; not when each and every good thing we have is a gift from our gratuitous and loving God.

How then do we go about making certain that we are not forgetful; that we remember our solemn obligation to be truly grateful? It is, I believe, a question that haunted the saints who spent their lives in praise of God and in service to others.

Let us take an inventory and consider our own personal giftedness and how we use our gifts. Is it primarily for our own pleasure, or do we use them (with God's grace) for the good and salvation of others?

One of our Carmelite saints said it so well: "We have nothing, that in fact, we have not received." May we remember these simple words so that all our activity might become a prayer of thanksgiving, a prayer of praise, a prayer of gratitude.

Give thanks to the Lord,
for he is good,
for His kindness endures forever. (Psalm 106:1)

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

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joachim 4:12 AM

20021127

 

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, November 27, 2002
Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 15:1-4
Psalm 98:1-3,7-9
Luke 21:12-19

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

What a clash and opposition we feel with thoughts of death: it's serenity and its horror, its finality and its promise! It is truly a part of life, a climax and a denouement. Thank God for the shock waves that energize us daily at the death of a friend, an acquaintance, or the suddenness of death of a total stranger. We mourn, ultimately, for ourselves.

What beauty there is in every human life, all the more underscored by the temporary and the passing. The beauty lies in its possibilities and potentials, while its terror lies in its uncertainty.

We have only the moment to redeem, the present. There is the challenge that comes in a million moments of our lives: "This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad!"

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

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

joachim 4:09 AM

20021126

 

The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, November 26, 2002
The Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 14:14-19
Psalm 96:10-13
Luke 21:5-11

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"See that you not be deceived. . ."

Many will come saying they are the Messiah. And many will not be telling the truth. It's very hard to tell whether Jesus is being ironic here, because all of the "signs" that He gives of His second coming are signs that the people of Judea were used to seeing and experiencing on a nearly yearly basis. Armed uprisings, earthquakes, signs in the skies (comets, etc.)

Our best path is one that Jesus gave elsewhere in the gospels. "Do not seek to know the time or the date, for it will come upon you as a thief in the night." In the parable of the wise virgins, the entire point is that you do not know when the bridegroom is coming, so be prepared.

We should be ready to receive Jesus when He comes in Glory. But we should also be aware that Jesus comes to us every day. Even so, we should be ready to receive Him. If we go to daily Mass, we should do so in such a state as to receive Him worthily. If He comes to us in the person of someone who needs something from us, we should be ready to receive Him.

There is too much focus on the end times. Time will end when it ends. In the meantime, it is up to us to be prepared to receive Jesus whenever, wherever and however He chooses to come to us.

- JuandelaCruz, TOCarm

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joachim 4:19 AM

20021125

 

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, November 25, 2002
The Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 14:1-5
Psalm 24:1-6
Luke 21:1-4

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"Who shall stand in his holy place?
The man with clean hands and pure heart." (Psalm 24:4)

Faith can be shown to this world and win us a place in heaven only through our living it. Today's readings clearly tell us what a "living faith" entails. First it requires our taking Jesus at His word, always seeking from Him the way to true holiness; this means obedience to His teachings out of love for Him, not fear, proud display nor worldly gain. Second, our love for Christ must be genuine, prompted by the love He showed for us by dying on the cross for our sins and so restoring us to friendship with our heavenly Father. Third, we are to assume Christ's cross with Him, dying to all the selfish demands of our flesh and giving ourselves as completely to Him as He gave Himself to us.

Revelation narrates that at the end-times, those will be ransomed from the earth who are unblemished, undefiled by sin, who practice no deceit. These elect will be identified by bearing the Name of the Father and the Son on their foreheads; hearts overflowing with joy they will sing a new, unique song of love to God. Psalm 24 bears this same message -- nothing unholy can approach and stand before God.

The widow giving her mite represents all those who are wholly given to God; so trusting and loving that they no longer have any thought for themselves. God can only fill with His life those who are empty of "self" and willing to risk suffering in order to gain Him. The worldly will think such a person a fool; they give with care and restraint from their abundance so that they might deny themselves nothing. How quickly we forget Christ's words, "Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides." (Matthew 6:33)

Blessed Lord,
touch our hearts deeply
that we may increase our faith, hope and love,
all to Your honor and glory.
Amen.

- Marie Bocko, ocds

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joachim 4:19 AM

20021124

 

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, November 24, 2002
The Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time
The Solemnity of Christ the King

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ezekiel 34:11-12,15-17
Psalm 23:1-3,5-6
1 Corinthians 15:20-26,28
Matthew 25:31-46

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

On this last Sunday of the Liturgical Year, Holy Mother Church completes her long season of instruction on the teachings of Christ. We have learned that Jesus is our King, our Lord, our Savior. In Him we place all our trust for salvation. In Him we hope to be shielded from the snares of the devil. In Him we find our strength to resist the attractions of the world, the flesh, the devil. Having resisted His holy call and often tried to do it "our way", we may have learned by experience and God's enlightenment to simply let go of ourselves and let God do with us as He wishes. How soothing it is for the weary traveler, that the Church chooses Psalm 23 for today's Responsorial at Mass:

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
In verdant pastures he gives me repose.

Beside restful waters he leads me;
he refreshes my soul.

He guides me in right paths
for his name's sake.

You spread the table before me
in the sight of my foes;

You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.

Only goodness and kindness follow me
all the days of my life;

And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
for years to come.

Are we not therefore encouraged to redouble our efforts to become Holy as Christ desires of us? Are we not called to remember the Beatitudes, and to live the Ten Commandments and especially the Greatest Commandment of all: Love the Lord your God with your whole heart, with your whole soul, and with all your mind. (see Matthew 22:37-39)

Amen, Amen!

- Joachim, ocds

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joachim 4:14 AM

20021123

 

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, November 23, 2002
Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time
Saint Clement I
Saint Columban
Blessed Miguel Augustin Pro

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 11:4-12
Psalm 144:1,2,9-10
Luke 20:27-40

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In the readings for today, Christ gives us a good example of how to handle people who are trying to trap us by unusual questions about our faith. The scribes had a long, involved question regarding marriage. Christ handled the situation by redirecting their attention from thinking the way we do regarding things of earth, to thinking about our heavenly home. Christ did this very often ....redirected our attention to 'the big picture', to eternal life.

We can get easily bogged down with little details of life that are sometimes disturbing to us. As humans, certain things can easily disturb our inner sense of peace if we let them. But the more we let little things disturb this peace, that restless sense of frustration tends to grow, and it spreads like a disease to others around us. We probably all know people who never seem to have a good word to say about anything or anyone, and it is tempting to avoid them. But perhaps, instead, we can instill in them some peace.

Christ knew that the scribes were out to trap Him and He could have easily avoided their intrusive question. But instead, He received them and attempted to redirect their thought pattern to what is really important in life: the basic truths of our faith. When we are asked such questions, and in a sense feel trapped, perhaps a quick, silent prayer to the Holy Spirit for inspiration will turn the event into a golden opportunity for God's grace to enter within!

Come Holy Spirit,
fill the hearts of the faithful.
Amen

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

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joachim 4:07 AM

20021122

 

The Catholic Calendar for Friday, November 22, 2002
Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time
St. Cecilia, virgin, martyr

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 10:8-11
Psalm 119:14-24,72,103,111,131.
Luke 19:45-48.

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Recently, our Holy Father, John Paul II wrote an apostolic letter called 'Rosarium Virginis Mariae', The Rosary of the Virgin Mary. Today's Gospel brings to mind that the Rosary is a prayer that we often participate in with others, after Mass. Coast to coast, worldwide, wherever you go, small Church or large Cathedral, we find the faithful devoted to praying the Rosary. Mary, our Blessed Mother, an incomparable model of contemplation, lived with her eyes fixed on Christ, treasuring His every word. "She kept all these things, pondering them in her heart." (Luke 2:19)

The new 'Mysteries of Light' or the 'Luminous Mysteries' provide us with a way to carry out the command of Jesus who says "my house will be a house of prayer." Focusing on five significant moments of Christ's life: 1) his Baptism in the Jordan, 2) his self-manifestation at the Wedding of Cana, 3) his proclamation of the Kingdom of God with his call to conversion, 4) his transfiguration, and 5) by the institution of the Eucharist as the sacramental expression of the Paschal Mystery, we are joined again with Mary, our blessed Mother, as we ponder in our hearts all that Jesus has done for us. The blessed rosary of Mary, sweet chain linking us to God allows us to make our home in his heart any time of the day or the night.

Allow us O Lord, to pray always;
be with us every day to comfort us.
Fill us with your peace and joy
and empower us to be your witnesses.
Amen

- Deacon Bill Powers (uujpow@aol.com)

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

joachim 4:03 AM

20021121

 

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, November 21, 2002
The Thirty-third week in Ordinary Time
The Presentation of Mary

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 5:1-10
Psalm 149:1-6,9
Luke 19:41-44

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

At first I was puzzled by the readings for today; not necessarily what they said, but that they were to be read at all. I thought the Church would have chosen "special" readings on this Memorial Feast of the Presentation of Mary and not just those that began yesterday and will continue tomorrow.

Slowly it occurred to me that it is altogether proper for the Church not to disrupt the train of thought established by the Scriptures proceeding and following this day. Wouldn't it have been like Mary to have it this way? Wasn't it always her will that she be an instrument bringing to man the "Good News" and not trying to be, the good news?

And yet, the revelation of God in Sacred Scripture, always has Mary woven in it. She is always there; silent, yet inherently present. Through her The Word, Jesus, became Flesh.

Let us then think of Mary on this quiet and somewhat obscure memorial feast: her humility, her obedience, which drew down from heaven the power of God and conceived for us - the Lamb, the Worthy One.

- Donna Raye Nelson, ocds

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joachim 4:01 AM

20021120

 

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, November 20, 2002
Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 4:1-11
Psalm 150:1-6
Luke 19:11-28

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

We have a 'show stopper' in today's first reading. What a magnificent, overwhelming vision of heaven! Artists have it all over photographers when it comes to the imagination! There are dreams -- and then there are dreams, of course. Some dreams are destructive and frightening. The apocalyptic vision is awesome and inspiring, both confusing and a cause for ecstasy in the beholder.

I strongly suggest that we spend time meditating today on the placid sea, the exaltation of the four evangelists, the surging symphony of praise night and day to the Deity. Then recite as a concluding prayer the responsorial psalm from today's Liturgy.

The Gospel challenges us grateful, responsible use of the talents and gifts God has entrusted to us. Time is so precious. Where does it go? As we approach the end of Ordinary Time, we are symbolically facing
our own death and judgment.

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

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joachim 4:16 AM

20021119

 

The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, November 19, 2002
The Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 3:1-6,14-22
Psalm 15:2-5
Luke 19:1-10

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"I shall repay it four times over. . ."

Contrition, true contrition is not about "making it up," it is about making it more than right. Today Jesus bestows a visit on the house of a sinner. Yes, in the gospels and in our daily travels. Jesus visits each of us, sinners, in our own houses each day and offers us the joy of His companionship. But that joy comes at a price -- contrition.

Proper contrition does not ask, "Am I done yet?" As with Zacchaeus, proper contrition is anxious for the opportunity to serve. Proper contrition recognizes the breach of the peace that has occurred, and it desires more than "making it right" it desires the fullness of joy in giving all.

Often after confession we are given a penance to pray or do by the priest. In celebration of the act of forgiveness, we should do our penance and then move as the Holy Spirit leads us to show our contrition with great acts of love. Zacchaeus was rewarded with salvation because his heart was turned from stone to flesh. Praise God for this opportunity. Seize it and move forward. Clutch to yourself each opportunity to do a service for the Lord remembering always the light penances that we are dispensed and the great love that wants always to give more than what is required.

- JuandelaCruz, TOCarm

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joachim 4:21 AM

20021118

 

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, November 18, 2002
The Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time
St. Rose Philippine Duchesne
Dedication of the Basilicas of the Apostles Peter and Paul

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 1:1-4; 2:1-5
Revelation 2:17 and Psalm 1:1-4,6
Luke 18:35-43

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place unless you repent. (Revelation 2:5) Our first reading addresses the Church at Ephesus, but its message is relevant to us today. The Faith is now being attacked by forces on many fronts trying to destroy the truth of the Christian message by diluting its moral imperatives. As in ancient Ephesus, some of our people labor strenuously to preserve orthodoxy; yet their very zeal may distract them from that which is primary and must always accompany truth - God's love. Truth, if divorced from love, can never attract followers; for absolute truth always springs directly from God's love; the two are actually one. Christ criticized the Ephesian Church because while fighting bravely to preserve doctrinal truths, they had lost their ardor; they lacked a palpable love for God and man.

It was for this serious infraction that the Ephesians could lose their lampstand, a fate that could befall segments of our Church today. This would be devastating, for the lampstand is that on which "light" is set. Christ Himself is the "light of the world;" once that light is removed, darkness prevails, causing many souls to be lost. Christ's light is the fire of God's love; it is the sacrificial love of God that Jesus embodies, that ignites and fuels the Church's light, not sterile human efforts.

Our Church busily performs many good works to help those who are poor, sick, uneducated, oppressed and exploited. Yet we also see great breaches of charity, infidelities to the Spirit of the law because the motive force behind much of our efforts is an institution mainly impelled by habit, duty, even pride rather than an overflow of God's love. St. Paul warns the Corinthians, "If I give away everything I own and hand my body over that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing."

O Most Holy Spirit,
reveal us to ourselves,
that in seeing the truth of our spiritual poverty,
our loveless hearts,
we would turn to You for healing.
Amen.

- Marie Bocko, ocds

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joachim 4:29 AM

20021117

 

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, November 17, 2002
The Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Proverbs 31:10-13,19-20,30-31
Psalm 128:14-30
1 Thessalonians 5:1-6
Matthew 25:14-30

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Today's scriptural message is about stewardship. As we near the end of the Church's Ordinary Time and our many months-long tutelage from the very mouth of Christ, we find scripture asking us: how have we responded to The Message? How are we responding to Faith, Hope and Charity? Are we growing in these gifts that were given to us? Are we giving back freely to the kingdom of God our time, our talent, our substance, our opportunities?

These questions became very real to me this morning as I began to write this reflection. At another computer on my desk, I was monitoring a live webcam that views Times Square in New York City. At this early hour, still in darkness, I noticed a homeless man bundled up against a cold storefront asking for alms. Many people passed him by, disinterested. Much to my surprise, other people came over and handed him money and chatted with him for awhile before passing on. One young woman poured some of her coffee into his cup and also handed him some money. She and her friend stayed and chatted, too. Having recently read on the Web about a homeless man (thehomelessguy.blogspot.com) I'm learning more about the helplessness of these people, their extreme dependence upon the generosity and kindness of others.

Rather than negatively stereotype the homeless and the poor, would it not be appropriate for us as followers of Christ to gratefully share God's kindness to those who are in need? Let us sincerely examine our spiritual reportcard and prepare ourselves to respond to all opportunities of this day, and every day. Let us meet each moment of our lives as a "Sacrament of the Moment" offered to us from God.

- Joachim, ocds

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joachim 4:19 AM

20021116

 

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, November 16, 2002
Thirty-second Week in Ordinary Time
St. Margaret of Scotland
St. Gertrude

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
3 John 5-8
Psalm 112:1-6
Luke 18:1-8

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Pray always without becoming weary . . . .

Our Blessed Mother, often speaking through human persons over the many centuries, still calls us to prayer, encouraging us to "pray, pray, pray" so that the love of God may grow in our hearts and Satan's power be diminished in the world. Our Lady tells us that if we only realized the power of prayer, we would continue to pray without ceasing!

Prayer "centers" us, brings us into communion with God so that we can go redirected and refreshed back into the world with the armour of God at our side. With God's grace more abundant in our hearts we can more often display the constructive values of truth, justice, hope and faith so that we might positively impact the world around us, and make the Kingdom of Heaven a reality on earth.

Our prayer life with God is the beginning of eternity, even while we reside here on earth. The more we pray and the more our lives reflect a deeper communion with God, the more miracles of God's grace can work in and through us for the betterment of our souls and our world.

Today, let us give God some quality time so that His plans for us and our brothers in sisters in the world may be fully fulfilled.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

- Cliodhna Doyle

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joachim 4:07 AM

20021115

 

The Catholic Calendar for Friday, November 15, 2002
Thirty-second Week in Ordinary Time
St. Albert the Great, bishop, doctor of the Church

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 John 4-9
Psalm 119:1-2,10-11,17-18
Luke 17:26-37

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Jesus' promise to return at the end of time to establish His Kingdom is a promise that we seldom think about. His teaching was meant for all of us to follow, to journey this earth with a heart penetrated by His love with the hope of everlasting happiness yet to come.

Today's gospel story recounts a life that was not pleasant for the people who lived in the time of Noah and Lot. The thought of "fire and brimstone raining down from heaven" destroying Sodom is very scary. But not so for those who humbly follow Jesus. To us who believe, the End Times are something to look forward to with great expectation, because of the promise of eternal life with Jesus, in His Kingdom.

We must prepare ourselves by prayer, studying scripture, obedience to His word, by receiving the sacraments frequently, and by living a life of faith in Jesus. Let us not allow worldly goods to dull our hearts as the frenzy of Christmas shopping begins. Instead, let us free ourselves from the burden of the material world, opening our hearts to Jesus our loving redeemer.

- Deacon Bill Powers (uujpow@aol.com)

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joachim 4:14 AM

20021114

 

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, November 14, 2002
The Thirty-second week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Philemon 7-20
Psalm 146:7-10
Luke 17:20-25

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Today's Gospel tells us something we know in our hearts, but often prefer to ignore. It is that there is a certain order for heavenly things and that it involves the unavoidable Way of The Cross.

Sometimes we live almost delusional lives acting as if the plenitude of material blessings will never end. Those who do this, live as if the Kingdom of God was the sum total of temporal things. Underneath, however, is the unescapable awareness that all things pass away and only God is eternal.

Let us then not be haunted by worry about what "might be", but surrender now to Jesus by placing all our hope and trust in Him. Let us rely not on our strength, but that of Jesus who, in His flesh, overcame the world. Grafted to Him and His perfect obedience to the will of the Father, may we live in certitude that His grace will be enough for us, will provide all that is required for the journey.

- Donna Raye Nelson, ocds

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joachim 4:55 AM

20021113

 

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, November 13, 2002
Thirty-second Week in Ordinary Time
St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, virgin, religious

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Titus 3:1-7
Psalm 23:1-6
Luke 17:11-19

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

How very attractive St. Paul makes Christian living! It would seem like heaven on earth. But Paul was aware even as he was writing, how much he had failed to come up to the ideal of gentleness and forgiving kindness. Scripture records his flare ups with Peter and Barnabas and Mark. The point is, of course, that all this pleasant state of living is made possible by the power of grace. How many times have we been at odds with others and with ourselves, only to have a complete change of heart as our hard feelings soften with the words of a psalm such as: "How good and pleasant it is for brothers to live as one."

May we always quickly seek reconciliation and healing through prayer, that we may struggle once again to witness to others by the graciousness of our relationships with those with whom we live and work.

- Msgr. Paul Whitmore

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

joachim 4:08 AM

20021112

 

The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, November 12, 2002
The Thirty-second Week in Ordinary Time
St. Josaphat, bishop and martyr

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Titus 2:1-8,11-14
Psalm 37:3-4,18,23,27,29
Luke 17:7-10

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"For the Grace of God has appeared, saving all . . . "

The first part of this letter instructs us to behave well. We are models. We are models to our children, first and foremost, and to those around us. When our children have other children visit, we are models to them. We are models to our coworkers and to those we mentor in any way. And what we want to model is the exemplary behavior of the person who knows that while yet in sin, he has been given the greatest gift possible--eternal life.

God, in the Person of Jesus Christ, came and died on the Cross expressly for the purpose of cleansing a people for Himself. Ideally, that people should make up all the people of Earth. Jesus died for all. Some refuse to accept the gift, others reject it outright. Our children could come to be one of these if what we model for them is hypocrisy, hatred, unhappiness, and a sullen adherence to rules.

What we have been given is the joy of Jesus Christ. In our behavior, in our interactions with others, and most especially in our interactions with people who have no relationship or a very weak relationship with our glorious Savior, we should strive always to reflect that joy and light. In all that we do, recall that we are a people redeemed from the slavery of the harshest taskmaster in this world (ourselves) and the most horrid taskmaster of the other.

Praise God for His loving kindness.

- JuandelaCruz, TOCarm

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joachim 4:16 AM

20021111

 

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, November 11, 2002
The Thirty-second Week in Ordinary Time
St. Martin of Tours, bishop

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Titus 1:1-9
Psalm 24:1-6
Luke 17:1-6

A reflection on today's Scripture:

Obstacles are sure to come,
but alas for the one who provides them. (Luke 17:1)

This past Monday's reflection dealt with the importance of the episcopate, the college of bishops who in union with the pope are assigned the apostolate of teaching God's children so as to lead them to a knowledge of Christ and ultimately to their salvation. Their primary allegiance must be God Himself in Christ, if they are to be successful in their office; for it is only those who are genuinely spiritual, who are imbued by the Holy Spirit, that can draw souls to God. Words are ineffective unless they come from those who know and love God and are fully living the Faith in His truth and in love.

Today's readings should again seize the attention of our Church leaders, for they are given warnings that either through wrong teachings or simply not presenting the fullness of truth to their flocks, they will exclude themselves from the kingdom and also be held responsible for leading their flocks astray.

However, responsibility does not fall exclusively on the Church hierarchy. We, as individual Catholics who have received Christ and His Spirit in Baptism, Confirmation, Reconciliation and the Holy Eucharist are responsible for developing an intimate relationship with our Lord and developing an informed conscience based upon the reading of Scripture, daily prayer and a knowledge of Church teachings. In brief, we cannot be led astray if we make every effort to draw close to God in Christ and live in obedience to God's Word which advances us in holiness and leads us to salvation.

While on this earth we are called upon to build loving and life-giving relationships with our family, friends and neighbors; but this we cannot successfully do unless we first are established in God, not only in external practices but to the depths of our hearts.

Heavenly Father,
protect us from apathy
and adopting a routine manner of worship.
Fill us with zeal for your truth
and the desire to receive and give Your love.
Amen.

- Marie Bocko, ocds

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joachim 4:09 AM

20021110

 

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, November 10, 2002
The Thirty-Second Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Wisdom 6:12-16
Psalm 63:2-8
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Matthew 25:1-13

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Are we prepared?

With only three weeks left before Advent, today's passages from sacred scripture tell us about preparing ourselves for eternal life and the wonder of meeting the Lord. To that end, we would do especially well to treat our souls to a thoughtful re-reading of today's thoughts from the Book of Wisdom.

What deep beauty and wisdom it contains! How carefully we should compare our expectations, our day-to-day achievements, our worldly goals - with those contained in the Book of Wisdom. Will we find that we have easily and imperceptibly slipped away from the path of virtue that leads to joy in God? Why do we put off virtue, in deference to our trivial selfish pursuits? How can we be so short-sighted?

To emphasize the importance of spiritual preparedness, Jesus told his disciples the parable about the foolish virgins. The moral of the story is that we need to reform our lives so that we will be spiritually prepared - either for our certain mortal death, or for the Second Coming of Jesus. Let us not be lulled by the sirens of the world, by our youthful age or any other false sense of security, "...for you know not the day nor the hour." Let Jesus always be the hallowed center of our lives!

- Joachim, ocds

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joachim 4:11 AM

20021109

 

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, November 9, 2002
Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time
Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Ezekiel 47:1-2,8-9,12
1 Corinthians 3:9c-11, 16-17
John 2:13-22

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Today the Church commemorates the anniversary of the dedication of the Lateran Basilica erected by the Emperor Constantine, a feast observed since the twelfth century. The basilica serves as a sign of devotion to and of unity with the Chair of Peter.

It is fitting therefore that the readings focus on the Church and the concept of temple. We, as Christians, are brought into the Church by the waters of Baptism. Each of us serve as the temple of God with God as the architect. As temples of the Spirit, each and all of us are holy.

The scriptures often refer to Christ's love of the temple. He would often go to the temple to teach and pray. He cried over the thoughts of the eventual destruction of Jerusalem. Christ is described by St. John as very angry when He finds the temple defiled by its misuse as a place of commerce rather than of prayer. Christ also referred to His own Body as a temple when He predicted His death and resurrection.

How much Christ must love each of us as temples of the Holy Spirit! Let us recall this often as we serve as stewards of our body and soul. It also is important to recall as we make our day to day choices about what we wear, eat, drink....and even where we go and choose as associates. We have a big responsibility.

O God,
help us to make these choices wisely
for Your kingdom,
both today and always. Amen

- Joan of Jesus, ocds

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joachim 4:28 AM

20021108

 

The Catholic Calendar for Friday, November 8, 2002
Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Philippians 3:17-4:1
Psalm 122:1-5
Luke 16:1-8

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

The employee we read about in today's Gospel is planning ahead for his well being as he faces dismissal from his employer for dissipating his property. He figures that if he reduces the debts of his employer's debtors, they'll treat him kindly when he's without a job. Surely the word "devious" aptly describes this man.

Jesus teaches us to serve each other with no thought of ever being repaid. He teaches us to trust in Him for all things and no to worry about anything -- even about our next meal or the clothes we need to keep us warm. He asks us to depend upon Him totally in every situation in our individual lives.

St. Paul reiterates this as he writes to the people of Philippi about those who have their eyes set on worldly things, rather than on the Lord! Let us rejoice with the Psalmist today and make ourselves ready for the day when we will meet our God and go up to His house.

For He that is mighty has done great things
and Holy is His name! Amen (see Luke 1:49)

- Deacon Bill Powers (uujpow@aol.com)

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joachim 4:07 AM

20021107

 

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, November 7, 2002
The Thirty-first week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Philippians 3:3-8
Psalm 105:2-7
Luke 15:1-10

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In today's First Reading from St. Paul, we learn an important sign of progress in the Spiritual life. It is that, what we once thought was important, is now of little value in light of God's unsurpassing love for us. It is this "right perspective", the fruit of faithfulness to the Faithful One, that puts everything in order. Of even greater worth is the knowledge and understanding that God remains faithful, even when we are not, and moreover, cancels all our transgressions against Him whenever we turn to Him with humbled and contrite hearts.

What a joy to know that unlike human relationships that suffer sometimes irreparable damage because of being unfaithful, our relationship with God is always restorable. In and through the saving blood of Christ we are created anew, washed clean in the Blood of the Lamb, become again as white as snow.

Praise Jesus for His saving and restoring love.

"Let hearts rejoice who search for the Lord." (Ps 105:3)
They will find Him!

- Donna Raye Nelson, ocds

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joachim 4:22 AM

20021106

 

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, November 6, 2002
Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Philippians 2:12-18
Psalm 27:1,4,13-14
Luke 14:25-33

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

How important for each one of us to stir up the fire in us from time to time. Becoming sluggish in our daily work is so very, very easy. We easily become discouraged and weary at the thought of another day to struggle with an energetic spirit if not an enthusiastic one. St. Paul knew well the experience when he contrasted the willingness of the spirit and the unwillingness of the flesh. Fortunately, we don't need to pull ourselves up by our own bootstraps (physically impossible, anyway!). It is by calling on the Holy Spirit that we will have the strength and the will to do it. That's the good news--we have an inexhaustible source of energy at our beck and call. For the Spirit longs for us to call on Him. Jesus, in the Gospel, urges us to not only work, but to plan out our work -- like, where do I want to be in my spiritual life on the day I face my Judge and Maker? Think of that day, and know new energy! It's like a ship's pilot looking ahead at the port -- and adjusting his course accordingly.

- Msgr. Paul Whitmore

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joachim 4:34 AM

20021105

 

The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, November 5, 2002
The Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Philippians 2:5-11
Psalm 22:15-24
Luke 14:15-24

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"Every knee shall bend . . ."

What a hymn of glory for what a day of infamy. As many of us trudge to elections polls (USA) today to vote for one brand of Herod or Caligula or Commodus or Heliogabalus or, perhaps even worse another follower of James Polk or Franklin Pierce, we are given the great joy of this hymn to remind us that our citizenship on this Earth is only temporary, but that of the next world is eternal.

At the name of Jesus everything will be transformed. The mighty of the world will be cast down and the lowly lifted up, for if all are bowed into homage to the one God, all are equal. And, in fact, some of those lowly will go before the great. The Saints shall lead the great parade of those entering heaven, and many of the saints were the lowliest of the low.

This passage is simply beautiful to think about throughout the day. Jesus though He was God, did not conduct Himself as God on Earth. He did not go about ordering everyone around or being holier than thou, though He certainly was entitled to. But He showed us the way of service. Not the way of high office, with its possible corruption and graft, but rather the way of the slave -- the servant of all.

Let us today look to our Master and realize that what we hope to unburden ourselves of in electing officials is actually our great and joyful duty -- the rightful work of the people of the King. And let us praise God for what we may do in this work.

Let every knee bow and every tongue confess
Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

- JuandelaCruz, TOCarm

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joachim 4:40 AM

20021104

 

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, November 4, 2002
The Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time
St. Charles Borromeo, bishop

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Philippians 2:1-4
Psalm 131:1-3
Luke 14:12-14

A reflection on today's Scripture:

The good shepherd is one who lays down his life for his sheep. (John 10:11)

Today we honor a saintly man who, realizing he had received the same sacred office given by Jesus to His Apostles, fulfilled it perfectly. Bishops are called to unite God's flocks in the truth Christ revealed to the world for its salvation. Their task is one of service to their people, to foster and maintain the integrity of Christ's body, to keep it united in its beliefs and purposes, to govern it in the love poured out upon us by God.

As never before, Christ's body is being attacked and fragmented by a society that has become thoroughly secularized. Our media, especially arts and entertainment, constantly test the limits of how they can express themselves; this, plus the cries for "separation of church and state" purposely misinterpreted by liberal judicial and legislative powers, have virtually silenced the voice of truth. Ironically, in a nation priding itself on freedom of expression, we are not allowed to speak against practices that are morally corrupting, that are destructive to the social order created by God for our good. "Political Correctness" has become a covert means of censorship. The Christian message, the one definitive means of effecting man's salvation, has been drowned out in a cacophony of lies that appeal to humanity's preponderance for sin, self-will and selfishness.

Are the words of the Good Shepherd who gave His life for us now being spoken by those entrusted with His sheep? Sadly, those who should know and teach the truth have been seduced into silence because they lack the sacrificial love shown us by Christ. Pride, apathy or fear deter their honesty, cause them to gloss over the more difficult points of our Faith to make it more palatable to a world ignorant of God. On every level of the Church our people should rise up to insist that our leaders adhere to Christ's teachings revealed to us by the Church and upheld by the papacy.

Blessed Lord,
cleanse Your Church of her infidelities
that she may once more become a beacon of truth and love
to bring life to a dying world. Amen.

- Marie Bocko, ocds

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joachim 4:35 AM

20021103

 

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, November 3, 2002
The Thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Malachi 1:14--2:2,8-10
Psalm 131:1-3
1 Thessalonians 2:9-9,13
Matthew 23:1-12

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled,
but whoever humbles himself shall be exalted."
(Matthew 23:12)

Ode from a Gravedigger . . . .

O what was it, mortal man,
that you should have yearned
so passionately
....all those worldly pursuits?

For what worth was it
to seek that which lasted not,
while passing obliviously by your goal everlasting
with barely a twinge of regret?

Now your earthly host lies stilled
in this peaceful state,
'midst tranquil field now quiet
surrounded by pine trees
narrow and straight.

Oh, why was it,
that worthless haste
that futile search
for vain satisfaction that never sates?

But now, as I toil and breathe over this shovel crude,
I'm reminded
of what marvelous godly composite we're all made,
that a few more moments have been given me
to guide my desires
and resolves
towards that Perfection

which lasts for ever

and ever

yes, forever!

Amen,

Amen

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joachim 4:12 AM

20021102

 

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, November 2, 2002
Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time
All Souls Day

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Daniel 12:1-3
Psalm 27:1,4,7-9,13-14
Romans 6:3-9
John 3:37-40

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

...neither death, nor life,
nor angels, nor principalities,
nor present things, nor future things,
nor powers, nor height, nor depth,
nor any other creature will be able to separate us
from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:38-39)

When I attended mass in Westminster Cathedral London last week, I was struck by the words of the priest who said that rules and regulations are not what should govern our human relationships but our common relationship with God should form the basis of all our sharing and relationships with one and other.

I recall these words today on the celebration of All Souls when we join together and commemorate all the faithfully departed. We pray for our deceased loved ones and in a special way we pray for all the dead who have no one to pray for them. Today too, let us remember all souls still living, as the Body of Christ on earth, that we may grow in love and healing and bring love and acceptance to the needy of our world.

We ask this all, in Christ our Lord. Amen.

- Cliodhna Doyle (clia@cliadoyle.com)

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joachim 4:27 AM

20021101

 

The Catholic Calendar for Friday, November 1, 2002
Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time
The Solemnity of All Saints
[today is a Holyday of Obligation]

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 7:2-4,9-14
Psalm 24:1-4ab,5-6
1 John:3:1-3
Matthew 5:1-12a

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Amen! Praise, glory, wisdom, thanksgiving, honor, power and might belong to our God forever and ever. Amen! (Revelation 7:12)

"Blessed" is a way to describe how we feel about someone who has received a special favor in answer to his or her prayers or it can also mean that the person is very happy or fortunate. Imagine being in that throng of people whose only desire is to worship the Lord as they stand in His presence for all eternity! This is our call! This is where God has a place prepared for each of us. We are "blessed"! Today we celebrate All Saints Day, a day when we remember in our prayers all who have gone before us who lived the Gospel on earth.

As children of God, how do we prepare ourselves to be in the presence of our Maker? Are there any steps we might take that will bring us closer? Jesus clearly outlines for us the all-familiar Beatitudes as our guide for the journey. He's not standing with His "red marker" to grade us, but He is only asking us to do our best with the individual gifts we have received. Everyone created by our God has a gift; a gift is not a gift until we fully share it with others. By the grace of God, as we try to become more like Him, in our thoughts, words and actions, we will be among those praising Him for all eternity.

O Lord,
Help me to live the Beatitudes today
and everyday of my life. Amen.

- Deacon Bill Powers (uujpow@aol.com)

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joachim 4:15 AM