Readings for Monday March 29, 2020
Monday of Holy Week
First Reading: Isaiah 42:1-7
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 27
Gospel: John 12:1-11
I, the LORD, have called you for the victory of justice, I have grasped you by the hand; I formed you, and set you as a covenant of the people, a light for the nations, To open the eyes of the blind, to bring out prisoners from confinement, and from the dungeon, those who live in darkness. (Is. 42:6-7)
Today begins Holy Week, one of the greatest weeks of our year. For it is this week that we grow in our faith by going deeper into Christ's passion, and we celebrate His victory over sin and death. What an amazing and blessed week this is. I can still remember beginning Holy Week two years ago as I was preparing to enter into the Church. I remember the excitement and anticipation that built up this week. I can still remember preparing to receive the Sacraments and to receive Jesus for the first time. To finally take part in the passover meal that Jesus instituted over 2000 years ago. This is truly a time that is special to all of us, because we have people who are coming into (or back) to the Church, and these new brothers and sisters should be welcomed home with open arms. This season is also a chance for us to rekindle our own faith and gratitude for the great gift of life that Jesus gave to us by His life, death, and resurrection.
Today's first reading by Isaiah reminds us exactly why Jesus gave His life for us; "to open the eyes of the blind, to bring out prisoners from confinement, and from the dungeon, those who live in darkness."(Is 42:7) God came in the flesh to die for us because His children were hurting. They were blinded by their own sin, and could not see clearly to turn away from their worldly life and turn to Him. They were lost and did not know the way. He came so that we would not need to be tied down by our sins, but rather can have the freedom that comes from a life with God. As once we lived in darkness, now we have to light of Christ to show us the way, and to lead us to the Father.
As any good parent, God did not want to see His children ache any more. He was prepared to do anything to save us from hell, even if that meant dying on a cross. This week, use this time to reflect on Christ's great sacrifice and on God's love for us. Take a few moments to thank Him, and then think how can we share God's love with others.
May God bless you this Holy Week.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, thank you for all that you have given, and all that you have done for us. Lord, help us to sacrifice in our own lives, as you have sacrificed for us. Lord, we thank you and praise you for the great gift of this life, may we never waste it on any worldly pursuits. Lord, help us to let you Spirit work in us, and that we may shine the light of Christ in this world. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen
3.29.2010
3.26.2010
God's got our back
Readings for Friday March 26, 2010
First Reading: Jeremiah 20:10-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 18
Gospel: John 10:31-42
I hear the whisperings of many: “Terror on every side! Denounce! let us denounce him!” All those who were my friends are on the watch for any misstep of mine. “Perhaps he will be trapped; then we can prevail, and take our vengeance on him.” But the LORD is with me, like a mighty champion: my persecutors will stumble, they will not triumph. In their failure they will be put to utter shame, to lasting, unforgettable confusion. O LORD of hosts, you who test the just, who probe mind and heart, Let me witness the vengeance you take on them, for to you I have entrusted my cause. Sing to the LORD, praise the LORD, For he has rescued the life of the poor from the power of the wicked! (Jer 20:10-13)
What if you were to walk around by yourself one night in a very rough neighborhood of a big city, like Chicago or New York. Wouldn't you be kind of afraid? You would probably walk really fast, with your head constantly looking around for trouble. Needless to say, you would be walking with fear. Now let's say your in that same city at the same time of night, but instead of being by yourself, you are surrounded by an escort of Navy SEALS. You might start walking a little differently, in fact you might even start feeling so secure that you get a little strut going. Naturally even though you are still in that same rough neighborhood, you now have an entourage that makes you feel protected and secure.
It is this same feeling of being protected and of security that we should feel from God. Because we have a "mighty champion" that is more powerful than any military force or power here on earth. Having God by our side, means having the Creator of the Universe by our side looking out for us and helping us through all things. It is safe to say that God has always got our back. Like we see in the readings today, no matter what Jeremiah or Jesus were faced with, God was always there looking out for them. No matter who was plotting what, God is always there watching over and protecting His children. That is not to say that we will never go through hardship, but through it all God is there ready to bring a greater good out of any difficult situation that we go through.
There may be times when we feel alone or abandoned, and it is important to remember that through these trials we are never alone, but rather we are given a blessing to be able to trust and depend on God even more. Like any good Father, He never leaves His children, and He always has got our back.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, thank you for all that you have blessed us with in our lives. Lord, we are not deserving of your great gifts, but you still pour them out to us. Help us to live our lives as you have planned so perfectly, and help us not to take things for granted. Lord, you are our God and we are your people. We love you adn thank you for always beign there for us. Please forgive us for all the times that we fall short, help us never to give up, and to persever until the end. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
First Reading: Jeremiah 20:10-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 18
Gospel: John 10:31-42
I hear the whisperings of many: “Terror on every side! Denounce! let us denounce him!” All those who were my friends are on the watch for any misstep of mine. “Perhaps he will be trapped; then we can prevail, and take our vengeance on him.” But the LORD is with me, like a mighty champion: my persecutors will stumble, they will not triumph. In their failure they will be put to utter shame, to lasting, unforgettable confusion. O LORD of hosts, you who test the just, who probe mind and heart, Let me witness the vengeance you take on them, for to you I have entrusted my cause. Sing to the LORD, praise the LORD, For he has rescued the life of the poor from the power of the wicked! (Jer 20:10-13)
What if you were to walk around by yourself one night in a very rough neighborhood of a big city, like Chicago or New York. Wouldn't you be kind of afraid? You would probably walk really fast, with your head constantly looking around for trouble. Needless to say, you would be walking with fear. Now let's say your in that same city at the same time of night, but instead of being by yourself, you are surrounded by an escort of Navy SEALS. You might start walking a little differently, in fact you might even start feeling so secure that you get a little strut going. Naturally even though you are still in that same rough neighborhood, you now have an entourage that makes you feel protected and secure.
It is this same feeling of being protected and of security that we should feel from God. Because we have a "mighty champion" that is more powerful than any military force or power here on earth. Having God by our side, means having the Creator of the Universe by our side looking out for us and helping us through all things. It is safe to say that God has always got our back. Like we see in the readings today, no matter what Jeremiah or Jesus were faced with, God was always there looking out for them. No matter who was plotting what, God is always there watching over and protecting His children. That is not to say that we will never go through hardship, but through it all God is there ready to bring a greater good out of any difficult situation that we go through.
There may be times when we feel alone or abandoned, and it is important to remember that through these trials we are never alone, but rather we are given a blessing to be able to trust and depend on God even more. Like any good Father, He never leaves His children, and He always has got our back.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, thank you for all that you have blessed us with in our lives. Lord, we are not deserving of your great gifts, but you still pour them out to us. Help us to live our lives as you have planned so perfectly, and help us not to take things for granted. Lord, you are our God and we are your people. We love you adn thank you for always beign there for us. Please forgive us for all the times that we fall short, help us never to give up, and to persever until the end. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
3.25.2010
The 'yes' heard round the world
Readings for Thursday March 25, 2010
Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord
First Reading: Isaiah 7:10-14, 8:10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 40
Second Reading: Hebrews 10:4-10
Gospel: Luke 1:26-38
Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his Kingdom there will be no end.” But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her. (Lk 1:30-38)
The phrase "the shot heard round the world" has been used to signify two important events in human history. One was the American Revolutionary War; the other was the Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which was the event that began World War I. This phrase is used to say that there was one moment, one decision that was the final breaking point, and after that moment, there would be chain reaction of events that would forever change the history of the world. If it was a simple shot that was the beginning of two very big historic wars, then I would like to propose another event that was is even more historic and has since forever changed all of our lives. It isn't a shot, a war, or a big bang ... it is a simple yes, the yes heard round the world.
Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord; the moment the angel Gabriel came to Mary to let her in on God's amazing plan. She could have said anything that she wanted; "let me get back to you on that one", "how about next year, I think that will work out better for me", "are you sure that you go the right girl?" She could have talked about much responsibility that sounds like, or how hard it sounds; and she could have also just said no. But instead, she spoke those beautiful words that we read, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." It was here that Mary with complete trust and obedience in the Lord, humbly said "Yes." It was her answer, her yes that would forever change things; and from that moment on, our lives would never be the same.
Today, as she did then, Mary still says yes to God, and invites us to do the same and to follow her example.
Hail Mary, full of Grace. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory be to the Father, to the Son, to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be world without end. Amen.
Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord
First Reading: Isaiah 7:10-14, 8:10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 40
Second Reading: Hebrews 10:4-10
Gospel: Luke 1:26-38
Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his Kingdom there will be no end.” But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her. (Lk 1:30-38)
The phrase "the shot heard round the world" has been used to signify two important events in human history. One was the American Revolutionary War; the other was the Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which was the event that began World War I. This phrase is used to say that there was one moment, one decision that was the final breaking point, and after that moment, there would be chain reaction of events that would forever change the history of the world. If it was a simple shot that was the beginning of two very big historic wars, then I would like to propose another event that was is even more historic and has since forever changed all of our lives. It isn't a shot, a war, or a big bang ... it is a simple yes, the yes heard round the world.
Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord; the moment the angel Gabriel came to Mary to let her in on God's amazing plan. She could have said anything that she wanted; "let me get back to you on that one", "how about next year, I think that will work out better for me", "are you sure that you go the right girl?" She could have talked about much responsibility that sounds like, or how hard it sounds; and she could have also just said no. But instead, she spoke those beautiful words that we read, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." It was here that Mary with complete trust and obedience in the Lord, humbly said "Yes." It was her answer, her yes that would forever change things; and from that moment on, our lives would never be the same.
Today, as she did then, Mary still says yes to God, and invites us to do the same and to follow her example.
Hail Mary, full of Grace. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory be to the Father, to the Son, to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be world without end. Amen.
3.24.2010
Freedom
Readings for Wednesday March 24, 2010
First Readings: Daniel 3:14-20, 91-92, 95
Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3:52
Gospel: John 8:31-42
Jesus said to those Jews who believed in him, “If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How can you say, ‘You will become free’?” Jesus answered them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave of sin. A slave does not remain in a household forever, but a son always remains. So if the Son frees you, then you will truly be free. I know that you are descendants of Abraham. But you are trying to kill me, because my word has no room among you. (Jn 8:31-37)
This may come as a shock to you, but our world is kind of backwards. Our thinking towards God and sin are completely backwards. The standard thought among most people is that if they give into their desires and passions (committing sin), then that is what will liberate them. People think that by just doing whatever they want and giving in to things, that this is what will give them the freedom that they so desperately want. The truth is that this thinking is backwards. Because giving into sin, just leads to more sin, and before you know it you are a slave to that sin. When we give in to more and more sin, all we do is bring pain and destruction into our lives and the lives of others.
If we truly want to be liberated and to be free, then we must accept who we are. We are children of God, and as children we need to be obedient to our Father who loves us. While it is totally against everything the world tells us, if we give ourselves to Him and are obedient to Him; then that is how we will be liberated and find the freedom that we want. When we choose to follow God, instead of ourselves, then we are not bound to things that enslave us, but rather we find our purpose and the life that we were meant to have. It is His truth that will set us free, not our own version of the truth.
Jesus came to free us from sin, for this we need to be eternally grateful. Let us find our freedom as children of God by going against the worldview of freedom and giving into Christ's view of freedom.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, thank you for all that you have blessed us with and all that you have given. Lord, we are not deserving of being called your sons and daughters, but you accept us and want us anyway. Help us to never stray from you, and help us persevere to the end. We pray for all of our priests and religious. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
First Readings: Daniel 3:14-20, 91-92, 95
Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3:52
Gospel: John 8:31-42
Jesus said to those Jews who believed in him, “If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How can you say, ‘You will become free’?” Jesus answered them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave of sin. A slave does not remain in a household forever, but a son always remains. So if the Son frees you, then you will truly be free. I know that you are descendants of Abraham. But you are trying to kill me, because my word has no room among you. (Jn 8:31-37)
This may come as a shock to you, but our world is kind of backwards. Our thinking towards God and sin are completely backwards. The standard thought among most people is that if they give into their desires and passions (committing sin), then that is what will liberate them. People think that by just doing whatever they want and giving in to things, that this is what will give them the freedom that they so desperately want. The truth is that this thinking is backwards. Because giving into sin, just leads to more sin, and before you know it you are a slave to that sin. When we give in to more and more sin, all we do is bring pain and destruction into our lives and the lives of others.
If we truly want to be liberated and to be free, then we must accept who we are. We are children of God, and as children we need to be obedient to our Father who loves us. While it is totally against everything the world tells us, if we give ourselves to Him and are obedient to Him; then that is how we will be liberated and find the freedom that we want. When we choose to follow God, instead of ourselves, then we are not bound to things that enslave us, but rather we find our purpose and the life that we were meant to have. It is His truth that will set us free, not our own version of the truth.
Jesus came to free us from sin, for this we need to be eternally grateful. Let us find our freedom as children of God by going against the worldview of freedom and giving into Christ's view of freedom.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, thank you for all that you have blessed us with and all that you have given. Lord, we are not deserving of being called your sons and daughters, but you accept us and want us anyway. Help us to never stray from you, and help us persevere to the end. We pray for all of our priests and religious. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
3.23.2010
Opportunites for Growth
Readings for Tuesday March 23, 2010
First Reading: Numbers 21:4-9
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 102
Gospel: John 8:21-30
From Mount Hor the children of Israel set out on the Red Sea road, to bypass the land of Edom. But with their patience worn out by the journey, the people complained against God and Moses, “Why have you brought us up from Egypt to die in this desert, where there is no food or water? We are disgusted with this wretched food!” In punishment the LORD sent among the people saraph serpents, which bit the people so that many of them died. (Nm 21:4-6)
In today's first reading, we see the Israelites complaining about their current conditions, apparently the standards are just not up to par. They just aren't thinking that even though they are being asked to rough it a little bit, things could be worse. Since they are not thinking this, the Lord gives them a little taste of just how worse it can be, He sends some snakes to punish the people. I think that was the reality check that the people of Israel needed.
This sparks the question, how do we handle conflict and inconvenience in our life? Do we see it as a curse or a blessing? The Israelites did not realize what God's plan was in taking them into the dessert wilderness for all those years. He was teaching them to be trusting and dependent on Him. Many of them missed this point, and only wished for more. This reminds me of a lesson that I took away from sports. I remember during football, after some long practices we would end with running some sprints. It is no surprise that after several sprints we would start getting very tired. We kept thinking that we should be done, that we had run enough, but our coach would just make us run more. We just couldn't believe that he was making us run more, we would start gripping and complaining out loud. As you can guess, this didn't help matters, in fact it only hurt them. Instead of saying, "you know what, you boys are right, we have done enough, let's go inside", he said "line up, we're doing more!" My heart and my body screamed of injustice, thankfully my mouth stayed closed. What I didn't realize at the time was that my coach was not only making us physically tough, but he was also making us mentally tough. If we are so willing to give up after a practice, when things are hard, then we would just as likely to do the same in a game ... or even later in life. I am thankful for those lessons instilled in me.
We each have a choice in life, we can choose to see trials and challenges as curses or bad luck; or we can see them as opportunities for growth. God is not trying to bully us or get His kicks out of tormenting us, He is giving us a chance to grow and depend on Him through hardship. We can spend our time complaining, or we can spend our time praising.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, thank you for all that you have given to me and for all that you do. Lord help us to see things through your eyes, to see hardships as important lessons and important opportunities of growth and trust in you. Lord, may your light shine through us, and may we continue to be vessels for your glory. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
First Reading: Numbers 21:4-9
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 102
Gospel: John 8:21-30
From Mount Hor the children of Israel set out on the Red Sea road, to bypass the land of Edom. But with their patience worn out by the journey, the people complained against God and Moses, “Why have you brought us up from Egypt to die in this desert, where there is no food or water? We are disgusted with this wretched food!” In punishment the LORD sent among the people saraph serpents, which bit the people so that many of them died. (Nm 21:4-6)
In today's first reading, we see the Israelites complaining about their current conditions, apparently the standards are just not up to par. They just aren't thinking that even though they are being asked to rough it a little bit, things could be worse. Since they are not thinking this, the Lord gives them a little taste of just how worse it can be, He sends some snakes to punish the people. I think that was the reality check that the people of Israel needed.
This sparks the question, how do we handle conflict and inconvenience in our life? Do we see it as a curse or a blessing? The Israelites did not realize what God's plan was in taking them into the dessert wilderness for all those years. He was teaching them to be trusting and dependent on Him. Many of them missed this point, and only wished for more. This reminds me of a lesson that I took away from sports. I remember during football, after some long practices we would end with running some sprints. It is no surprise that after several sprints we would start getting very tired. We kept thinking that we should be done, that we had run enough, but our coach would just make us run more. We just couldn't believe that he was making us run more, we would start gripping and complaining out loud. As you can guess, this didn't help matters, in fact it only hurt them. Instead of saying, "you know what, you boys are right, we have done enough, let's go inside", he said "line up, we're doing more!" My heart and my body screamed of injustice, thankfully my mouth stayed closed. What I didn't realize at the time was that my coach was not only making us physically tough, but he was also making us mentally tough. If we are so willing to give up after a practice, when things are hard, then we would just as likely to do the same in a game ... or even later in life. I am thankful for those lessons instilled in me.
We each have a choice in life, we can choose to see trials and challenges as curses or bad luck; or we can see them as opportunities for growth. God is not trying to bully us or get His kicks out of tormenting us, He is giving us a chance to grow and depend on Him through hardship. We can spend our time complaining, or we can spend our time praising.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, thank you for all that you have given to me and for all that you do. Lord help us to see things through your eyes, to see hardships as important lessons and important opportunities of growth and trust in you. Lord, may your light shine through us, and may we continue to be vessels for your glory. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
3.22.2010
The Light of Jesus
Readings for Monday March 22, 2010
First Reading: Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23
Gospel: John 8:12-20
Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (Jn 8:12)
There are few more frustrating experiences than walking around in the dark. It is especially frustrating when you wake up in the middle of the night, stumble around perhaps on your way to the bathroom. When you are walking around in the dark you always seem to be able to find all the things that were left on the floor. It is like someone knew your path in the middle night and placed the object there just for you to step on. I have also had many banged shins due to not being able to see where I was going. I think that we can all generally agree that it is much better to see where we are at and where we are going, it is much better (and safer) to walk around in the light.
Jesus tells us today that He is the light of the world, and that whoever follows Him will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. As frustrating and dangerous as it can be to physically walk in the darkness, how much more so going around in this life spiritually in the darkness? I can tell you from my experience, walking spiritually in the darkness is certainly nothing to be desired. Before my conversion, I was living a worldly life, I was so deep into the darkness that I didn't know who I was, where I was at, or where I was going; but thanks be to God for shining His loving and merciful light into my heart and showing me my ways. It is all because of Him that I have life in me now, and that I strive for eternal life.
If you or someone you know is walking in the darkness, please know that it does not have to be this way. Christ died on the Cross so that each of God's sons and daughters could have the light of life inside them. We were not meant for the darkness, it does not suit us, we were meant for the light.
May the light of Jesus shine brightly in each of our lives.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, thank you for all that you give and bless us with. Thank you for the gift of our lives and for loving us without holding back. Lord, you are our God and our rock, help us to open our hearts and minds to you, to let your light shine forth in this world for all to see. Lord, we love you, help us to do your will and to go out and love others as we are called to. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
First Reading: Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23
Gospel: John 8:12-20
Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (Jn 8:12)
There are few more frustrating experiences than walking around in the dark. It is especially frustrating when you wake up in the middle of the night, stumble around perhaps on your way to the bathroom. When you are walking around in the dark you always seem to be able to find all the things that were left on the floor. It is like someone knew your path in the middle night and placed the object there just for you to step on. I have also had many banged shins due to not being able to see where I was going. I think that we can all generally agree that it is much better to see where we are at and where we are going, it is much better (and safer) to walk around in the light.
Jesus tells us today that He is the light of the world, and that whoever follows Him will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. As frustrating and dangerous as it can be to physically walk in the darkness, how much more so going around in this life spiritually in the darkness? I can tell you from my experience, walking spiritually in the darkness is certainly nothing to be desired. Before my conversion, I was living a worldly life, I was so deep into the darkness that I didn't know who I was, where I was at, or where I was going; but thanks be to God for shining His loving and merciful light into my heart and showing me my ways. It is all because of Him that I have life in me now, and that I strive for eternal life.
If you or someone you know is walking in the darkness, please know that it does not have to be this way. Christ died on the Cross so that each of God's sons and daughters could have the light of life inside them. We were not meant for the darkness, it does not suit us, we were meant for the light.
May the light of Jesus shine brightly in each of our lives.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, thank you for all that you give and bless us with. Thank you for the gift of our lives and for loving us without holding back. Lord, you are our God and our rock, help us to open our hearts and minds to you, to let your light shine forth in this world for all to see. Lord, we love you, help us to do your will and to go out and love others as we are called to. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
3.19.2010
Take on a servant's heart
Readings for Friday March 19, 2010
Solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary
First Reading: 2 Samuel 7:4-5, 12-14, 16
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 89
Second Reading: Romans 4:13-22
Gospel: Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24 or Luke 2:41-51
Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home. (Mt 1:18-21, 24)
What is it that makes a good husband? Is it loyalty? Perhaps it is being very honest and open. Maybe it is being romantic and sweet. Does the ability to kill a spider rank high up on the good husband list? The ability to fix household things has got to be a prerequisite for marriage right? As I read today's gospel, I realize that while all of the qualities that have just been listed might be very good in a marriage, they are certainly not the most important thing. I think that Saint Joseph shows that the most important quality for being a good husband is having a servant's heart.
Saint Joseph found himself in a particularly difficult situation when he found out that Mary was pregnant. Being a righteous man, he sought to divorce her secretly; but God had other plans. When God told Joseph His plan, Joseph didn't put up a fight or even argue, he simply listened to God and was obedient to Him. Joseph took Mary into his home, where he spent the remaining days of his life serving both the Lord and our Blessed Mother.
Having a servants heart means thinking more about others than yourself. Joseph served the Lord with complete and faithful obedience, this is why there is not a single word spoken by him in the bible, there wasn't any need. His actions spoke louder than any words ever could have. Joseph also served his wife faithfully, as he knew his responsibilities was to provide for and protect his family. Joseph wasn't afraid to take on the role of a servant, for he humbled himself and accepted God's calling for his life. Joseph found his true purpose in life by serving God and others.
Taking on a servant's heart isn't just something that husbands should embrace, but rather it is a quality that every man should seek to embrace and cultivate in their lives. The main purpose of each of our lives is to love and be loved; one of the ways in which we can fulfill this calling to love is to serve.
Saint Joseph, pray for us.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, build in us a servants heart, help form our heart to yours. Lord, help us to humble ourselves as your servant Joseph did. Lord, your will and plan is perfect, help us to let go of our own plans and to give in to the plans that you have for us. We pray for all of our priests, that they may be strengthened in their ministries and in their vows. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary
First Reading: 2 Samuel 7:4-5, 12-14, 16
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 89
Second Reading: Romans 4:13-22
Gospel: Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24 or Luke 2:41-51
Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home. (Mt 1:18-21, 24)
What is it that makes a good husband? Is it loyalty? Perhaps it is being very honest and open. Maybe it is being romantic and sweet. Does the ability to kill a spider rank high up on the good husband list? The ability to fix household things has got to be a prerequisite for marriage right? As I read today's gospel, I realize that while all of the qualities that have just been listed might be very good in a marriage, they are certainly not the most important thing. I think that Saint Joseph shows that the most important quality for being a good husband is having a servant's heart.
Saint Joseph found himself in a particularly difficult situation when he found out that Mary was pregnant. Being a righteous man, he sought to divorce her secretly; but God had other plans. When God told Joseph His plan, Joseph didn't put up a fight or even argue, he simply listened to God and was obedient to Him. Joseph took Mary into his home, where he spent the remaining days of his life serving both the Lord and our Blessed Mother.
Having a servants heart means thinking more about others than yourself. Joseph served the Lord with complete and faithful obedience, this is why there is not a single word spoken by him in the bible, there wasn't any need. His actions spoke louder than any words ever could have. Joseph also served his wife faithfully, as he knew his responsibilities was to provide for and protect his family. Joseph wasn't afraid to take on the role of a servant, for he humbled himself and accepted God's calling for his life. Joseph found his true purpose in life by serving God and others.
Taking on a servant's heart isn't just something that husbands should embrace, but rather it is a quality that every man should seek to embrace and cultivate in their lives. The main purpose of each of our lives is to love and be loved; one of the ways in which we can fulfill this calling to love is to serve.
Saint Joseph, pray for us.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, build in us a servants heart, help form our heart to yours. Lord, help us to humble ourselves as your servant Joseph did. Lord, your will and plan is perfect, help us to let go of our own plans and to give in to the plans that you have for us. We pray for all of our priests, that they may be strengthened in their ministries and in their vows. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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