theJourney(beginning)

20030630

 

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, June 30, 2003
Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time
The First Martyrs of Rome

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Genesis 18:16-33
Psalm 103:1-4,9-11
Matthew 8:18-22

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

My dear Jesus, at times I must remind myself of just exactly how much you gave up for us. You are God, come here to be with us in the form of a man. You gladly accepted a life of poverty having no place to lay your head. Yes, you gave up so much that even the foxes and birds had more than you. Your life here as a man with us was one of total service, showing an example to all of us how a true servant should spend his life. You gave up that life for us in a horrible agony only to conquer sin and death itself and to take your rightful place at the right hand of the Father. You gave up everything in order that we might have all things.

And what do you ask in return? Some you ask to live a religious life, others you ask to be missionaries while others you ask to be mothers and fathers. To some you command that they follow you before having a chance to bury their own fathers, while others you ask to follow knowing they will have no place to lay their heads. And is any of this too much to ask? No! For what you have given us - eternal life - nothing is too much to ask. Lead, dear Jesus, lead. Where you go I will gladly follow.

- Don Claunch, sfo

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joachim 4:49 AM

20030629

 

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, June 29, 2003
The Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Acts: 12:1-11
Psalm: 34:2-3,4-5,6-7,8-9
2 Timothy 4:6-8,17-18
Matthew 16:13-19

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Today the Church honors two very significant saints in the history of the Church. Where would we be today if these two men had not responded fully to their unique vocations?

In the first reading we hear of Peter being set free from prison through divine intervention. He was awakened in prison by an angel. The chains fell away and he walked free. God had plans for Peter, and Peter co-operated.

The second reading also serves as a reminder to us of God's great mercy and His plans for us. Paul is sharing his absolute trust in God. Though he started out as a persecutor of Christians, Paul responded fully to his vocation. He speaks with confidence about having kept the faith and feels assured of an eternal reward.

The theme of divine intervention is seen again in the gospel. Christ is asking Peter about His identity. When Peter acknowledges that Christ is the Son of God, Christ reminds Peter that He would not know this unless it had been revealed by the Father.

We see clearly the hand of God in the lives of these two men, but also we see that Peter and Paul co-operated with Him as they felt directed. Today we can ask ourselves the questions, to paraphrase St. Paul: have we kept the faith? Are we fully involved in the "race" as Paul called it? Can we comfortably answer as did Peter: "You are the Christ, the Son of God?"

- Joan of Jesus, ocds (jmurphy at utica dot edu)

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joachim 7:20 AM

20030628

 

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, June 21, 2003
The Immaculate Heart of Mary
St. Irenaeus, bishop, martyr

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Genesis 18:1-15
Luke 1:46-50,53-55
Luke 2:41-51

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

A lost child -- the greatest fear a Mother can have! How did heå disappear; where is he now; what didn't I do that would have prevented this from happening? Try to imagine all the thoughts and emotions that surged through Mary's mind. Can you feel her anxiety as she returned to Jerusalem in search of him?

After three days, Joseph and Mary found Him in the temple teaching the elders. What a relief to find Him, after all that time. Did Mary pray to God to find Him? Did she understand what had happened? Mary said "Son, why have you done this to us?" (Lk 2:48) Jesus replied, "Did you not know that I had to be in my Fathers house?" (Lk 2:49) Was Our Lord correcting His mother? Upbraiding her? Calling her to a deeper faith?

"Mary kept all these things in her heart." (see Lk 2:51) This scripture is our lesson in faith today. Let us not allow the focus and anxieties of the moment take us over and cast doubt in our life. Mary's example leads us to reflect prayerfully on the events of our lives, the joys and the challenges that we face daily. Let us place our faith in Jesus and trust in Him for all our needs.

- Deacon Bill Powers (uujpow at aol dot com)

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joachim 4:12 AM

20030627

 

The Catholic Calendar for Friday, June 27, 2003
The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus (solemnity)

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Hosea 11:1,3-4,8-9
Isaiah 12:2-6
Ephesians 3:8-12,14-19
John 19:31-37

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Today the Church celebrates the solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus and offers for us several readings which prompt us to meditation about the love of God made manifest to us in Jesus.

The images we have of Jesus and His love for us are in some ways universal, yet there is a personal aspect of this love that is the function of how very personally and individually God interacts with us.

Sometimes its hard to imagine that the bleeding dying crucified Christ died not just because of us, but for us. Though His action extended to everyone, it wasn't just some broad and sweeping event, but something that was particularly intended and meant for each one of us.

Perhaps if we dare to think about this saving act of love in these very intimate and personal terms we might begin to see how precious we must be to the Lord, how loved we are in His sight.

Let us then, on this most solemn day, ask for the grace to more fully comprehend the love of that Most Sacred Heart that poured out its blood as a saving gift on our behalf. In gratitude and with greater devotion may we ask the Lord to make our hearts more like unto His which overflowed for our salvation and that of all the world.

- Donna Raye Nelson, ocds (drn3rd at hotmail dot com)

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joachim 4:23 AM

20030626

 

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, June 26, 2003
The Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Genesis 16:1-12
Psalm 106:1-5
Matthew 7:21-29

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

What a shameful thing Abram and Sarai did in driving Hagar and her offspring, Ismael, from their house. God patiently averted his wrath, and in compassion, took good care of Hagar and Ismael. Yet, today, the ancient enmity between the Arabs (offspring of Hagar) and the Jews (offspring of Isaac) still continues. What a lesson concerning the lasting effects of sin...the damage often compounds itself. From the Gospel, we learn that peace and harmony will only come when our faith is founded on the rock of Christ. How greatly we need to pray and work for peace in our world according to the Beatitudes, the Golden Rule, and the counsels of Jesus as found in the spiritual and corporal works of mercy! We must never stop working and praying and hoping. God's plan is all important--and we can never content ourselves with merely mouthing "brother", "sister", but must put our faith to work through prayer, words, and actions.

- Msgr. Paul Whitmore (smartins at twcny dot rr dot com)

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joachim 6:34 AM

20030625

 

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, June 25, 2003
Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Genesis 15:1-12,17-18
Psalm 105:1-4,6-9
Matthew 7:15-20

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"By their fruits you will know them"

We hear many voices that claim to speak for the Church and claim to speak for Jesus today. We hear some who say we are living in the end-times. We hear others who tell us this or that teaching of the Church is false or faulty or needs revision. Some tell us that the Holy Father is frail and no longer capable of leading the Church. Others tell us that the Church needs "to get with the times."

And what do we see among these naysayers and doom-prophets? Do we see the fruits of peace and joy that comes from God? Or do we see further dissension, further demands, alienation, unhappiness?

By their fruits you shall know them. Did Mother Teresa spend all of her time drawing attention to the "flaws" of the Church? Did any of the great saints? Did they spend their time making their flocks infinitely unhappy and burdened? Or did they, like St. John Vianney, spend long hours in the confessional? Did they face down the devil and raise up the poor souls in their care?

So, too, with us. We can choose to concern ourselves with the endless things we do not understand. We can undermine the teaching of the Church. Or we can reach out in tender love to one poor, hurting soul, and we can help. We can teach and we can console. We can turn to God and trust His guidance and thank Him for all that He gives us. And by our fruits we will be judged when the time comes.

- JuandelaCruz, T.O.Carm (sriddle415 at yahoo dot com)

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joachim 5:23 AM

20030624

 

The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, June 24, 2003
The Nativity of John the Baptist (solemnity)

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Isaiah 49:1-6
Psalm 139:1-3,13-15
Acts 13:22-26
Luke 1:57-66,80

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"Behold, one is coming after me;
I am not worthy to unfasten the
sandals of his feet." (Acts 13:25)

As we trace the history of God's chosen people, those He elected to make Him known to the world, we see the meticulous care with which He made Himself known. Beginning with Abraham, He promised to multiply his progeny, to spread to all nations a knowledge of Him. We note the many hardships endured by His chosen ones in an effort to teach them, through experience, His law, which is His truth based upon His love; this was to be the source of their salvation and through them the salvation of the entire world. Through Kings and prophets, through prosperity and exile, God tried to shape their hearts to receive Him; but the law He gave them, rather than reflecting His love, was turned into a merciless legal system that only a minority, the religious professionals, could follow. At this point God took this as an opportunity to free His people from sin and error, once and for all time. John the Baptist was God's vessel used to awaken the Jews to their need for repentance, cleansing and reform, the first step toward achieving their salvation. The stage was set for their awaited Messiah.

God kept His word in bringing salvation through His chosen people in the Person of Jesus Christ. It was in Christ's human flesh that God revealed His attributes, the love and goodness that He desires to instill in all His children through faith in Christ, a faith that in essence is obedience to His Divine and ever-living Word. Christ died for us first to free us from sin, but also to invite us to be united in mind and heart with Him, so that through His "faithful" the entire world can see His love and truth, desire it, and learn to live in it. The world has fallen far short of this mark because it refuses to die with Christ to its selfishness, self-seeking, love of ease and pure greed. Yet hope lives on, for we know Christ to be the final victor, and we retain the free will to follow Him.

Blessed Hope,
may this world come to believe in You;
open all hearts to receive You
that You may instill Your new life in all humanity.
Amen.

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

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©1986-2003 The Way, The Truth, The Life

joachim 4:32 AM

20030623

 

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, June 23, 2003
Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Genesis 12:1-9
Psalm 33:12-13,18-20,22
Matthew 7:1-5

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

On living an upright life....

We are encouraged to follow the Lord's commands as we read the story of how the Lord commanded Abram at age 75 to leave his homeland and lead his kinfolk to a new land. Imagine yourself in that situation, or some similar situation. When the Lord asks us to do something, big or small, we should follow Abram's example of such great trust.

Happy the nation whose God is the Lord, says the psalmist today. Ah yes, what a very happy nation we are, as we trust in the almighty dollar and in our political correctness!

Yet, regardless of our perception of all the turmoil around us, we are cautioned in today's Gospel not to pass judgment that we may not be judged. Jesus says, "Why look at the speck in your brother's eye when you miss the plank in your own?" Indeed, if you and I followed Jesus' commands and precepts perfectly, how much better this world would be. How easy it has been for us to stop short of going all the way for the Lord!

Dear God, help me to be responsive to all that You ask of me, to trust in You and to remain steady on my journey through life, neither judging nor condemning others. Strengthen me Lord, let me pray and work in every way possible that, by my daily example, I may preach your message of hope, love and joy.

- Joachim, ocds

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joachim 4:14 AM

20030622

 

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, June 22, 2003
Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
(Corpus Christi)

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Exodus 24:3-8
Psalm 118:12-13,15-18
Hebrews 9:11-15
Mark 14:12-16,22-26

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Today is the feast of "The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ" and so it is fitting to reflect briefly on the mystery of the Mass.

Jesus tells us in the Gospel that "He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood, will live in me and I will live in Him." Regular attendance at Mass, (daily if possible) is a sure way to stay on the road to eternity. While God's grace is abundant in the world through many forms, His perhaps most profound outpouring of grace is evident in the mystery of the Mass through which we as God's people are sanctified and strengthened for the journey to Heaven. God offers us the sacrifice of His Son at this unique celebration, an offering so profound, mysterious and magnificent that our feeble hearts and minds cannot begin to comprehend the wonder of what is being gifted to us. Yet, somewhere in our hearts, we realise the power of the Mass to transform and heal us in our human journey, and so in Faith we present ourselves before the altar, hopeful of healing and peace.

As Christians we're truly blessed to have such a recourse to the loving and healing power of God. Today, let us renew our commitment to the unique mystery of the Mass, confident in its power to heal humanity and strengthen us in our journey to salvation.

- Cliodhna Doyle (clia@cliadoyle.com)

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joachim 7:33 AM

20030620

 

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, June 21, 2003
The Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time
St. Aloysius of Gonzaga, religious

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Corinthians 12:1-10
Psalm 34:8-13
Matthew 6:24-34

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

...seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness
...and all these things will be given you besides."
(Matthew 6:33)

As I read and prayed on today's Gospel, it brought to mind another scripture passage in which Jesus sends forth His disciples, two by two, to preach the "good news" with only the tunics they wore on their backs. They had nothing and yet Christ implied that they had everything. If their love of God and their faith in Him remained strong, they were assured that God would provide for their every need on their missionary journey. Their instructions were to accept hospitality where it was offered, and if it was not offered, they should shake the dust from their feet and go on to those who would receive and provide for them.

Try to imagine how Christ's instructions to go forth into the world without money or provisions would be received today in a world driven by materialism, one addicted to "stuff" and comforts. Yet this is the degree of faith and trust to which we are called; we are to be like little children secure in the arms of a loving Father, knowing that He will surely care for them.

If we live each moment in God's loving and protective presence, we will be able to echo the Psalmist's words, "I have tasted and do see the goodness of God in my life."

Blessed Lord,
fill us with the happiness, freedom
and sense of security
that comes to those who take refuge in God
rather than this world's offerings. Amen.

- Deacon Bill Powers (uujpow@aol.com)

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joachim 8:42 PM

 

The Catholic Calendar for Friday, June 20, 2003
The Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Corinthians 11:18,21-30
Psalm 34:2-7
Matthew 6:19-23

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In today's First Reading St. Paul talks about the many things he has endured as an ambassador for Christ. It might seem to some that he is being a bragger. Instead, I see it as an honest assessment of what being Christ's witness may involve - the extent of the commitment - the unpayable price.

The reason I don't see his litany of hardships as a boastful platform from which he blows his own horn is because of the final statement in the reading. After all that he says, Paul reveals to us the relationship he has with the fledgling Church of Christ. He says that he experiences daily tension about the welfare of the churches - their needs and conflict never wanting. He has so identified himself with Christ and His Church that when the Church suffers, he suffers.

This is the hallmark of true Christian love: when the needs of one are the needs of all - the success of one, the success of the many - the risks to one, the concern of all.

Let us try to examine what our relationship is to the Church - to the suffering Mystical Body of Christ. Let us, like Paul, become so united in it that we cannot be separated from all that assails and glorifies
her.

God our Father,
we rejoice in the faith that draws us together,
aware that selfishness can drive us apart.
Let your encouragement be our constant strength.
Keep us one in the love that has sealed our lives,
help us to live as one family
the gospel we profess.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

(Opening prayer for Daily Mass, Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time)

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

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joachim 4:13 AM

20030619

 

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, June 19, 2003
The Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time
St. Romuald, abbot

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Corinthians 11:1-11
Psalm 111:1-4,7-8
Matthew 6:7-15

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In today's first reading, Paul is anxious about his Corinthian community. He compares them to chaste virgins betrothed by Christ. He himself is obviously their "Best Man." Many "super apostles", Paul claims, have been making a good living by bleeding them of their money. And he is very direct in his biting criticism of these false apostles. While this may seem harsh, Paul's direct speech clears the air, and prevents the further corruption of this little Christian community. At times, plain speech is necessary. Only the wisdom and discernment coming from the Holy Spirit can guide us in this, as it guided St. Paul.

Contrast this with the Gospel passage filled with the Lord's own Prayer. Here, forgiveness is an integral requirement if the Father is to pour His blessings into our hearts. As the Holy Father has begged the Croatians in his recent visit, forgiveness for the crimes of the Serbians against them, must come, difficult though it may be.

As we pray that wonderful prayer each day, let us always entreat God to send the grace of forgiveness to the many, many ethnic groups in our world who have suffered incredible injustices. Only forgiveness can really free the heart for true progress towards healing and growth in saving love.

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

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joachim 4:58 AM

20030618

 

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, June 18, 2003
Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Corinthians 9:6-11
Psalm 112:1-4,9
Matthew 6:1-6,16-18

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"Whoever sows bountifully, will also reap bountifully."

God gives to us generously and His expectation is not that we will store up what he has given us, but that we will freely distribute it to every person we meet.

What we sow we shall reap, and the amount we sow will return to us in the riches of the Lord. This is often used by unscrupulous ministers to suggest that if we give money to a church or righteous cause such money will come back to us bountifully. But that is a poor expectation, for money is of this world and time and place. If we give money to the church willingly and lovingly, the return will be in the many blessings we see around us as a result of that generosity.

When we give anything, material goods, money, sympathy, attention, in love, the return is beyond all reckoning. God is so rich in love and so bountiful in what He gives and how He gives, that we cannot even begin to understand. So rather than understanding, let us all attempt to give in love and in tremendous generosity.

- JuandelaCruz, T.O.Carm

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©1986-2003 The Way, The Truth, The Life

joachim 5:06 AM

20030617

 

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, June 18, 2003
Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Corinthians 9:6-11
Psalm 112:1-4,9
Matthew 6:1-6,16-18

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"Whoever sows bountifully, will also reap bountifully."

God gives to us generously and His expectation is not that we will store up what he has given us, but that we will freely distribute it to every person we meet.

What we sow we shall reap, and the amount we sow will return to us in the riches of the Lord. This is often used by unscrupulous ministers to suggest that if we give money to a church or righteous cause such money will come back to us bountifully. But that is a poor expectation, for money is of this world and time and place. If we give money to the church willingly and lovingly, the return will be in the many blessings we see around us as a result of that generosity.

When we give anything, material goods, money, sympathy, attention, in love, the return is beyond all reckoning. God is so rich in love and so bountiful in what He gives and how He gives, that we cannot even begin to understand. So rather than understanding, let us all attempt to give in love and in tremendous generosity.

- JuandelaCruz, T.O.Carm

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joachim 4:36 AM

20030615

 

==============================

For your information:
Please be aware that “The Journey” might not be published for a few days while the people running this service move older blogs (like this one) over to a new platform being placed in service.

- joachim

==============================

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, June 16, 2003
Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Corinthians 6:1-10
Psalm 98:1-4
Matthew 5:38-42

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Turn the other cheek.

Do we really take this seriously? Is this really realistic in our violent world? Let's pause a moment to think about this: much of the violence we experience is not physical, but verbal, mental, emotional and from the heart. This is just as damaging as physical violence because of the effect it has between us and God.

For instance, a co-worker has been bad-mouthing you to others. Do you truly forgive him or do you harbor hatred in your heart toward him. Or worse do you bad-mouth him to others behind his back?

For instance, are you truly competitive in your business or do you cross the line of ethics to make a sale and beat the competition? Do you openly speak poorly of the competitor and have a secret desire to drive the competition into bankruptcy?

We could list many examples but the point is that by not turning the cheek in many instances we fail to truly forgive - as God forgives us - and bring separation between ourselves and God. We are to be holy as God is holy and, therefore, forgive as He forgives. It brings us closer to Him which is our ultimate goal.

- Don Claunch, osf

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joachim 8:25 PM

 

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, June 15, 2003
The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity

Scripture From today's Liturgy of the Word:
Deuteronomy. 4:32-34,39-40
Psalm 33:4-5,6,9,18-19,20,22
Romans: 8:14-17
Matthew 28:16-20

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

How appropriate that on the first Sunday after Pentecost the Church chooses to honor the Most Holy Trinity! In addition to honoring the Trinity, it gives us as individuals and faith communities a chance to reflect on the significance of the Trinity in our lives.

In the first reading we sense the excitement in the voice of Moses, reflecting on the significance of God speaking to man in the burning bush. He recognizes God's desire to be involved with mankind on a personal level. Could anything be more important in history? We know that the answer to that is YES! We have a God who was willing to become man, die on the Cross in order to redeem us,and to rise again, only to send us the Holy Spirit! What would Moses say about that, if he was excited about the burning bush and the voice of God?

As young children we learned that God dwells within each of us. We were taught to maintain respect for our bodies, as a living temple of the Trinity. We were taught to dress appropriately, be mindful of the friends we choose, and to avoid excesses of any kind. It is a message we still need to hear and to share with others. We do not need to maintain a frantic search for happiness outside of ourselves. The Trinity, the Source of all Joy, dwells within each of us. We just need to take time to stop and listen.

There is a part of the reading today from Romans that may not have been emphasized when we were children. In fact, even as adults, we might not like to hear about it. That message is that we are co-heirs with Christ, as adopted sons and daughters if only we suffer with Him! We do not need to raise our hands in prayer and ask God for suffering, as enough of it seems to come to each of us. What we might consider is our attitude about such suffering. What do we do with those opportunities? This might be a good Sunday to toss away the expression from our thoughts"why me Lord?" Instead we might look upon these sufferings as opportunities on the pathway to heaven, like cobblestones that pave the way!

"May we enjoy this special feast
...in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit"

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

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joachim 7:11 AM

20030614

 

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, June 14, 2003
The Tenth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Corinthians 5:14-21
Psalm 103:1-4,9-12
Matthew 5:33-37

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In today's Gospel reading we hear Jesus instructing his disciples about truthfulness. Whereas their forefathers were commanded by the Law, not to take a false oath; He, the Fulfillment of the Law, makes it clear that we should be so straight-forward and truthful that saying, "'Yes,' when we mean 'Yes' and 'No' when we mean 'No', is all that is required.

Isn't this a far cry from how we interact with one another? So often our answers and actions are padded so as not to reveal our real feelings.

Why should this be? I find it is sometimes because I'm selfish and self- centered and at other times because I don't want to offend another by telling the truth -- seemingly different motivations for untruthful behavior, however equally wrong because both are dishonest.

How can we possibly live in this world and behave as Jesus commands? The missing element in both untruthful situations and indeed in all situations that are contrary to the example that Jesus gives, is the lack of love.

If I loved I would not be selfish and self-centered. If I loved I could even speak the sometimes difficult truth and the light of Christ's love in me would still shine through.

Dearest Jesus,
teach me to love as you loved,
then all I do and say would be unequivocally truthful.
You are the Way,
You are the Truth,
You are the Life.

- Donna Raye Nelson, ocds

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joachim 5:08 AM

20030613

 

The Catholic Calendar for Friday, June 13, 2003
The Tenth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Anthony of Padua

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Corinthians 4:7-15
Psalm 116:10-11,15-189-21
Matthew 5:27-32

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

The First Reading for today speaks of the fact that we are earthen vessels who carry within us a great treasure. For the most part, we have little comprehension about the magnitude of the Divine which deigned to make its abode in such meager accommodations as our human hearts.

That is part of the mystery of God's love, that we who are nothing contain He who is everything. In saying this we begin to see where our true worth lies, not on our own merit, but on the fact that God loves us. And the love of God is not preferential, but extends beyond our own limited concepts of love, to everyone.

May God's love for us and the love we know He bears toward all quicken us to love others, even those who seem unlovable. May God give us the grace this day to see beyond the earthen vessel to the treasure that lies within.

On this feastday of Saint Anthony who is known by many as the saint who finds "things" what are lost, help us to find our lost awareness of all that is good, true and holy -- all that is Love, all that is God, the treasure in earthen vessels.

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

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©1986-2003 The Way, The Truth, The Life

joachim 4:35 AM

20030612

 

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, June 12, 2003
The Tenth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Corinthians 3:15--4:1,3-6
Psalm 85:9-14
Matthew 5:20-26

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Moses had to veil his face from God's glory, but Paul tells us in today's reading that as Christians, we look on the Lord's glory with unveiled faces, and so are being transformed into the very life of Glory.

How awesome is our calling!

Reason for joy, and reason for gratitude that no suffering should dim. In this is our dignity and our reason for perseverance. All the more reason for us to forgive our brothers and sisters from the heart when they offend us, and to eagerly seek forgiveness from them when we transgress. Especially before receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus at the sacrificial meal that is the Mass. May we seek also, to see in them God's glory as well.

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

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joachim 4:08 AM

20030611

 

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, June 11, 2003
Tenth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Barnabas, apostle

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Acts 11:21-26; 13:1-3
Psalm 98:1-6
Matthew 10:7-13

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

When Barnabas arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all.

We celebrate the feast of St. Barnabas, a man "filled with the Holy Spirit and faith." This man encouraged all he met and he had eyes to see the grace of God at work.

That's what we all need--eyes to see the grace of God, a tongue to praise it, and a heart unsullied by our own agendas, preferences and notions. We must fill our hearts with God's notions, God's ideas, God's way for us.

Barnabas, as did all the apostles, acted as role model and example. Whosoever we should take as our model, we should observe closely and we should delight in following all their ways to God.

So today, let us thank God for "good men, full of faith and the Holy Spirit," and let us ask that we can become such ourselves.

- JuandelaCruz, T.O.Carm

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joachim 4:02 AM

20030610

 

The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, June 10, 2003
Tenth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Corinthians 1:18-22
Psalm 119:129-133,135
Matthew 5:13-16

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Your light must shine before others, that they may see...and glorify
your heavenly Father. (Matthew 5:16)

Today's readings work in tandem with the Church's recent celebration of Pentecost, the means given us through God's Spirit for the continued preservation and revelation of His truth and love. Paul reminds us of the importance of bearing our sufferings with courage; for our God comes to us in our afflictions, comforts us with the fact that He has "sealed us in His Spirit" so that at the end of our earthly trials, we will continue to gain in the joys of eternal life with Him which began when we chose to follow Christ.

In Matthew 5 Jesus ended the Beatitudes by saying that any who suffer insult, persecution or slander for His sake because they speak of and live in His word, will have a great reward in heaven along with all the prophets who came before them. To emphasize to His hearers the importance of their task, He compares them to two very essential life-engendering and preserving elements; they are the"salt" of the earth and the "light"of the world. In nature we see how the light of the sun is essential in bringing forth a bountiful harvest. We also know that salt not only enhances the flavor of food, but can also be used to cleanse and preserve it.

The light is actually the love and truths of God revealed by Christ . We must not allow anything, neither reticence nor fear to obscure the light of God's truth; nor should we allow ourselves to lose strength and power in proclaiming God's word. If we remain in close fellowship with Christ, learn to listen to and obey God's Word, and rely on His Spirit for strength and wisdom, we will receive the graces needed to fulfill our apostolic mission, the responsibility of making Him known in this world.

Spirit of Love and Truth,
imbue the hearts of all believers
with a burning desire to bring God's saving Word
to a world in dire need of salvation.
Amen.

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

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joachim 4:40 AM

20030609

 

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, June 9, 2003
Tenth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Ephrem, deacon, doctor of the Church

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 Corinthians 1:1-7
Psalm 34:2-9
Matthew 5:1-12

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Today we read the beautiful words from the Sermon on the Mount. They bring to mind the tranquil scene of Jesus surrounded by those who are eager to hear His words and be instructed by Him to seek the path that leads to holiness.

Over and over he says, "blessed are they, blest are those and blessed are you." What is remarkable is that He says we are blessed when we run counter to what the world teaches is worthy and good. Let us call upon the illuminating grace of the Holy Spirit to teach us how we best can be blessed. Let us yearn for holiness and be willing to be persecuted because of it. Let us crave to be lowly, merciful, peacemakers and single hearted. Confident that if we are, we will one day see God.

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

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joachim 4:04 AM

20030608

 

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, June 8, 2003
Pentecost Sunday

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Acts 2:1-11
Psalm 104:1,24,29-31,34
1 Corinthians 12:3-7,12-13
John 15:26-27;16:12-15

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:


There are different kinds of spiritual gifts but the same Spirit;
there are different forms of service but the same Lord;
there are different workings but the same God . . .

(1 Cor.12:4-6)



God's spirit moves where it will. The Holy Spirit or Advocate is the powerful gift Jesus left his disciples on earth so that they could transform the earth, making the kingdom of God a living reality. The Holy Spirit is a spirit of truth, always leading us to peace and eternity. The Holy Spirit guides us on our earthly pilgrimage, encouraging us to pray and live a life in service of God. The Holy Spirit is the force of love between the Father and Son, and with the death and resurrection of Jesus, we as children of God share in that force of Love. In the blessed Trinity, we can sometimes forget to pray to the Holy Spirit, forgetful of the wonderful gifts the Holy Spirit wishes to reveal in us and through us.

Today, let us renew our faith in our Close Companion who speaks to us softly in the depths of our hearts



Come Holy Spirit,
fill the hearts of your faithful
and enkindle in us

the fire

of your love



- Cliodhna Doyle (clia@cliadoyle.com)

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joachim 6:51 AM

20030607

 

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, June 7, 2003
The Seventh Week of Easter

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Acts 28:16-20,30-31
Psalm 11:4-5,7
John 21:20-25

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Jesus chided Peter after being questioned about the beloved disciple. Jesus said to him, "How does that concern you? Your business is to follow me!" (see John 21:22) Has our Lord ever brought you up short for something that you either said or did? Do you know what God's plan for your life is?

Look around and see how God has planned marvelously for your life's work. We who have been baptized into Christ have all the power of the Holy Spirit with us, to guide us, to allow us to have the endurance, without tiring, to accomplish Christ's work here and now, today! We have heard and read books on the lives of the saints. They didn't know that they were going to be recognized as saints. They just went about their daily lives doing what they were meant to do with the gifts God gave them. How many unrecognized saints have you already met and admired?

Jesus loves us so much that He wants us to know that He never ceases to care for us, even when we sin and turn away from Him. All of us everywhere have been called. All He wants for us is to know Him, to love Him and to serve Him all the days of our life, with a willing
heart.

Thank you Jesus
for the opportunities You give us,
for the plans you have for us in our life.
Come Holy Spirit fall afresh on me! Amen!

- Deacon Bill Powers (uujpow@aol.com)

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joachim 4:08 AM

20030606

 

The Catholic Calendar for Friday, June 6, 2003
The Seventh Week of Easter
St. Norbert, bishop

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Acts 25:13-21
Psalm 103:1-2,11-12,19-21
John 21:15-19

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:
Tonight as I sit down to write the meditation on Friday's readings I find myself asking the Lord to not only help me find the right words and to focus on the right thought, but to help me do it quickly. Its been a long and busy day and I feel more tired than usual and am in real need of the Lord's help.

After reading the Holy Scripture readings I am a bit downcast to find no ready and quickly developing thoughts. Instead I feel dry and rather uninspired.

What are we to do in times like these? Its easy to want to give up, but I'm reminded that in just such times lie the opportunities to be the most pleasing to the Lord.

It's now early morning of the next day and the meditation is due to be turned in. I can't give up, but what can I do? Then the gospel comes to mind .... Jesus asks Peter three times if he really loves Him. Some say it was to cancel Peter's three time denial. I like to think it was also a way for God to show Peter that he really did love, really did care, really had what it takes to be faithful.

Sometimes we don't know what we're made of, so to speak, until we're put to the test - questioned and challenged over and over - given a second chance. Peter stood up to the challenge and finally in response to Love, gave everything. In response to love and the fulfillment of our responsibilities and obligations, may we do the same! With God's grace it will be possible to accomplish things we thought were impossible - things beyond our strength and ability.

O Lord,
You know I love You.

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

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joachim 4:24 AM

20030605

 

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, June 5, 2003
The Seventh Week of Easter
St. Boniface, bishop, martyr

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Acts 22:30;23:6-11
Psalm 16:1-2,5,7-11
John 17:20-26

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In today's readings, St. Paul seems to be stirring up trouble in order to escape condemnation. Was this really the case? Was he not going against Jesus' desire for unity "that they all may be one"? Certainly he was clever in pitting Pharisee against Sadducee over the issue of the Resurrection. Even here, he was seeking unity with the Pharisees. Also, in defense of Paul, we can cite Jesus' words in the Gospel of Luke, that He had come for division, not peace. Jesus never taught peace at any price. When the Eternal Word of God is at stake, then we must be courageous, even at the cost of harmony.

The ultimate goal of every Christian must be for salvation; his own, as well as that of neighbor, as well as that of enemy. The ultimate goal is unity in faith, unity in love, and unity in heavenly glory.

With that our goal, we must always choose our battles wisely, only after gentle persuasion and loving pleas fail. Then, if the cause is just, let us take up the battle with prayer, honesty, and the moderation that avoids unnecessary harm to present harmony.

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

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joachim 6:41 AM

20030604

 

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, June 4, 2003
Seventh Week of Easter

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Acts 20:28-38
Psalm 68:29-30,33-36
John 17:11-19

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"So that they may be one just as we are one" (John 17:11)

This may be the most moving line of this particular prayer of Jesus. He pleads with God to allow everyone given to Him to remain with Him and He asks for protection to keep us all one.

Oh, how human frailty has failed Him in His request. Surely for nearly a thousand years, God granted the request, but then the human spirit, ever fractious, ever divisive carved His Church into two, and then, with the "reformation", into nearly countless numbers of factions.

As Catholics we have a special duty to our brethren to love them and to work with them to keep them within the fold. We will disagree on many different points, politics, practice, and faith. We must hold fast to the truth at the same time not sowing dissension and faction, but when necessary, gently correcting, but always, always, always welcoming even the wayward onto the path of truth. Love must triumph over division and we must start within our own church, reaching out with healing hands and hearts and living the truth--sending a strong sign of our belief.

- JuandelaCruz, T.O.Carm (sriddle415@yahoo.com)

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joachim 4:28 AM

20030603

 

The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, June 3, 2003
The Seventh Week of Easter
St. Charles Lwanga and companions, martyrs

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Acts 20:17-27 or 2 Maccabees 7:2,9-14
Psalm 68:10-11,20-21
John 17:1-11 or Matthew 5:1-12

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"You are depriving us of our present life,
but the king of the world will raise us up to live again forever."
(2 Maccabees 7:9)

As we read in 2 Maccabees of a family who chose torture and death over betraying God's law, and today observe the memorial of the martyred St. Charles and his companions, we are struck by the fact that we're still quick to silence anyone daring to oppose our views. Now our methods are greatly refined in an age of instant communication and a mass media dedicated to satisfying humanity's appetites for pleasure, ease, and selfishness. It gives voice to so called "religious experts" who claim there are no absolute truths by which we are to live; it also has become adept at character assassination by portraying those who dare to speak against the tide of immorality inundating our nation and the world as fanatics and enemies of freedom.

Our judicial and legislative systems have legalized perversions, anti-life and anti-marriage behavior, while the news and entertainment media repeatedly applaud such laws as an exercise of our God-given rights. Those suggesting that these laws are fostering societal chaos are silenced by slander, are barred by the media or have their truths twisted beyond recognition. Our "intelligentsia" seems unaware that God's word, based upon His love and therefore the absolute truth, was given not to curtail our freedoms but to free us from slavery to fame, power, money, possessions and sensual pleasures. It is our ignoring of God's law and a perverse use of His gifts that has created a world lacking peace, justice, and equity--in brief, devoid of genuine love.

Today's readings powerfully remind us of the self-giving, humble, merciful love of God and His salvation made available to His beloved humanity through faith and obedience to Christ--God's living Word.

Savior Lord,
pour out Your Spirit upon us
that we may gain a clear vision of Your truth
and the fulness and beauty of Your love. Amen.

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

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joachim 4:26 AM

20030602

 

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, June 2, 2003
Seventh Week of Easter
Sts. Marcellinus & Peter, martyrs

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Acts 19:1-8
Psalm 68:2-7
John 16:29-33

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

If Jesus were running a want-ad asking for followers, it would probably read something like this:

WANTED: Men and women of all ages, races, physical and mental abilities. Must be willing to relocate, abandon all possessions, give freely of self, suffer many hardships and submit to supreme authority. 24 hour shift, no holidays, vacations or weekends off. No monetary wages but an infinite bonus for those who persevere until the end of service. No experience necessary. No drug test, background check or references needed. All applicants will be accepted.

This probably wouldn't draw many applicants in today's world, would it?

It is a simple fact that following Jesus results in suffering. Perhaps persecution, poverty, hunger or even death. For some it is slight, for others it is a heavy burden.

But as followers of Him we should say to suffering each day "Bring it on!" For Jesus tells us, "But take courage. I have overcome the world." And with Him we too will overcome the world and on that day there will be no more suffering. Alleluia!

- Don Claunch, osf

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joachim 5:21 AM

20030601

 

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, June 1, 2003
Seventh Sunday of Easter

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Acts 1:15-17,20a,20c-26
Psalm 103:1-2,11-12,19-20
1 John 4:11-16
John 17:11b-19

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

We start our prayers by making the sign of the cross and saying: "In the Name of the Father...." Many of us start and end our day with such a prayer: "In the Name of the Father...."

The gospel for today centers on the request of Christ to the Father. He asks that we be kept in the name of the Father in order that we might experience the oneness that He, Christ, does with our Father.

When we are children, we look to our parents as providers of the necessities of life -- and as time passes we begin to realize, in most instances, that our earthly father is more than a provider. We appreciate the 'love bond' behind the family name. Our relationship with God the Father likewise matures as we grow spiritually. We move from seeing God not only as the Great Provider , but as a loving Father, as Love Himself!

The liturgy of this Sunday is a reminder, as we draw to the close of the Easter season, of the great love that our heavenly Father has for each one of us. Let us each think about that great Love as we make the sign of the cross, a very powerful prayer!

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

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joachim 12:49 AM