Scripture: Romans 8:31-39
Brothers and sisters: If God is for us, who can be against us? He did not spare his own Son but handed him over for us all, how will he not also give us everything else along with him? Who will bring a charge against God’s chosen ones? It is God who acquits us. Who will condemn? It is Christ Jesus who died, rather, was raised, who also is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us. What will separate us from the love of Christ? Will anguish, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or the sword? As it is written: For your sake we are being slain all the day; we are looked upon as sheep to be slaughtered. No, in all these things we conquer overwhelmingly through him who loved us. For I am convinced that 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.
Reaction: Today I was feeling down for various reasons, but my scripture reflection helped put things into perspective. I know that my woes are really trivial, nothing like persecution or famine or peril. I also know that my anguish and distress are, for the most part, self-imposed. But regardless of the cause or extent of my anxiety, nothing can separate me from the love of the Lord. As I lay awake last night, again suffering from insomnia, I called upon the Lord to be with me, and He answered my plea. I was able to put aside my troubles for a while and get back to sleep, imagining myself walking and talking with Christ. Today, even though my worries resurface periodically, I am to diffuse them by talking with the Lord, thanking Him for all of the good things He has given me, especially His love and salvation.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Growing in Faith
Scripture: Luke 13:18-21
Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? To what can I compare it? It is like a mustard seed that a man took and planted in the garden. When it was fully grown, it became a large bush and the birds of the sky dwelt in its branches.” Again he said, “To what shall I compare the Kingdom of God? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch of dough was leavened.”
Reaction: Jesus has often referred to our faith as a seed which, when planted in good soil, will grow strong and healthy, bearing much fruit. So my first thought during today’s reflection was of my faith being the tiny mustard seed, gently sinking into the rich soil of my soul. It is not yet fully grown, not yet able to support a flock of birds or other creatures. But it has definitely taken root, with its weak branches sprouting leaves and flowers. In my meditation I considered that my mustard plant would never be ‘fully grown’, but would continue to develop infinitely, until it reached into the heavens. On the other hand, I felt that at times it might become dormant, especially during a very cold or dry season. But with the right growing conditions (the warmth of God’s love and the water of His grace), it would again expand and spread. I felt encouraged that even though my mustard plant is still small, it has great potential.
While reflecting on the second parable, I thought of the three measures of wheat flour as my faith, and the yeast as God’s grace. Again, it is God’s goodness and presence that allows my faith to grow. Without Him I can produce nothing.
Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? To what can I compare it? It is like a mustard seed that a man took and planted in the garden. When it was fully grown, it became a large bush and the birds of the sky dwelt in its branches.” Again he said, “To what shall I compare the Kingdom of God? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch of dough was leavened.”
Reaction: Jesus has often referred to our faith as a seed which, when planted in good soil, will grow strong and healthy, bearing much fruit. So my first thought during today’s reflection was of my faith being the tiny mustard seed, gently sinking into the rich soil of my soul. It is not yet fully grown, not yet able to support a flock of birds or other creatures. But it has definitely taken root, with its weak branches sprouting leaves and flowers. In my meditation I considered that my mustard plant would never be ‘fully grown’, but would continue to develop infinitely, until it reached into the heavens. On the other hand, I felt that at times it might become dormant, especially during a very cold or dry season. But with the right growing conditions (the warmth of God’s love and the water of His grace), it would again expand and spread. I felt encouraged that even though my mustard plant is still small, it has great potential.
While reflecting on the second parable, I thought of the three measures of wheat flour as my faith, and the yeast as God’s grace. Again, it is God’s goodness and presence that allows my faith to grow. Without Him I can produce nothing.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
To Set the Earth on Fire
Scripture: Luke 12:49-53
Jesus said to his disciples: “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing! There is a baptism with which I must be baptized, and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. From now on a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.”
Reaction: I have always found this passage to be a bit unsettling, but today I did not focus on the division, but rather on the fire. Jesus has set so many hearts ablaze, and I am ever thankful that mine is one of them! I envisioned the division He spoke of to be the difference between the people in my life who feel the flame of God’s love and presence, and those who do not give much of a thought one way or the other to the Lord. I know many family members are in the second category, and during my meditation I had the feeling that what I need to do is simply to pray for them. I asked Jesus to set their hearts and minds afire with faith and lover for Him, and to help me show them, by my example, the joy that comes from a deep, warm relationship with God.
Jesus said to his disciples: “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing! There is a baptism with which I must be baptized, and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. From now on a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.”
Reaction: I have always found this passage to be a bit unsettling, but today I did not focus on the division, but rather on the fire. Jesus has set so many hearts ablaze, and I am ever thankful that mine is one of them! I envisioned the division He spoke of to be the difference between the people in my life who feel the flame of God’s love and presence, and those who do not give much of a thought one way or the other to the Lord. I know many family members are in the second category, and during my meditation I had the feeling that what I need to do is simply to pray for them. I asked Jesus to set their hearts and minds afire with faith and lover for Him, and to help me show them, by my example, the joy that comes from a deep, warm relationship with God.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
To Know the Master’s Will
Scripture: Luke 12:39-48
Jesus said to his disciples: “Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour when the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.”
Then Peter said, “Lord, is this parable meant for us or for everyone?” And the Lord replied, “Who, then, is the faithful and prudent steward whom the master will put in charge of his servants to distribute the food allowance at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master on arrival finds doing so. Truly, I say to you, he will put him in charge of all his property. But if that servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in coming,’ and begins to beat the menservants and the maidservants, to eat and drink and get drunk, then that servant’s master will come on an unexpected day and at an unknown hour and will punish the servant severely and assign him a place with the unfaithful. That servant who knew his master’s will but did not make preparations nor act in accord with his will shall be beaten severely; and the servant who was ignorant of his master’s will but acted in a way deserving of a severe beating shall be beaten only lightly. Much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.”
Reaction: My meditation today revolved around acting in accordance with God’s will. I have prayed many times in the past to discern God’s plan for me, but I really know the basics already: to love Him with all my heart, to believe in Him and trust in His providence, to keep Him as the most important aspect of my life through constant prayer and worship, to obey His commandments, to develop the Christ-like qualities He wants to see in me, to treat all of His people with love, compassion, and dignity, and to share my faith and love of Christ with others. This is the crux of my ‘mission’, and though I sometimes backslide as humans are known to do, I hope that the Master will arrive when I am acting with kindness, faith and charity, instead of when I’m falling into old patterns of selfishness, doubt or pride.
Part of my prayer session today was asking for the grace I need to be the type of person God wants me to be in my every-day life, so I can continue to live in His will. But I also had the impression that I must be especially vigilant and attuned to unique opportunities to do His will in very specific ways. These opportunities may involve going out of my way to do someone a favor, rearranging my own schedule to accommodate another, sharing my faith experiences to bring others closer to God, volunteering in a needed situation even if it’s not necessarily my favorite activity, offering food, hospitality, or goods to others in need … the list is endless! Lately I have been noticing these opportunities more and more, and when I actually pick up on them in a timely manner and act upon them, they bring me great joy! So I petition the Lord to bless me with open eyes, ears, and heart, so that I know His desires not just in general terms, but in very specific circumstances. And when these circumstances arise, I pray that I will recognize His call, make the necessary preparations, and act accordingly.
Jesus said to his disciples: “Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour when the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.”
Then Peter said, “Lord, is this parable meant for us or for everyone?” And the Lord replied, “Who, then, is the faithful and prudent steward whom the master will put in charge of his servants to distribute the food allowance at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master on arrival finds doing so. Truly, I say to you, he will put him in charge of all his property. But if that servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in coming,’ and begins to beat the menservants and the maidservants, to eat and drink and get drunk, then that servant’s master will come on an unexpected day and at an unknown hour and will punish the servant severely and assign him a place with the unfaithful. That servant who knew his master’s will but did not make preparations nor act in accord with his will shall be beaten severely; and the servant who was ignorant of his master’s will but acted in a way deserving of a severe beating shall be beaten only lightly. Much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.”
Reaction: My meditation today revolved around acting in accordance with God’s will. I have prayed many times in the past to discern God’s plan for me, but I really know the basics already: to love Him with all my heart, to believe in Him and trust in His providence, to keep Him as the most important aspect of my life through constant prayer and worship, to obey His commandments, to develop the Christ-like qualities He wants to see in me, to treat all of His people with love, compassion, and dignity, and to share my faith and love of Christ with others. This is the crux of my ‘mission’, and though I sometimes backslide as humans are known to do, I hope that the Master will arrive when I am acting with kindness, faith and charity, instead of when I’m falling into old patterns of selfishness, doubt or pride.
Part of my prayer session today was asking for the grace I need to be the type of person God wants me to be in my every-day life, so I can continue to live in His will. But I also had the impression that I must be especially vigilant and attuned to unique opportunities to do His will in very specific ways. These opportunities may involve going out of my way to do someone a favor, rearranging my own schedule to accommodate another, sharing my faith experiences to bring others closer to God, volunteering in a needed situation even if it’s not necessarily my favorite activity, offering food, hospitality, or goods to others in need … the list is endless! Lately I have been noticing these opportunities more and more, and when I actually pick up on them in a timely manner and act upon them, they bring me great joy! So I petition the Lord to bless me with open eyes, ears, and heart, so that I know His desires not just in general terms, but in very specific circumstances. And when these circumstances arise, I pray that I will recognize His call, make the necessary preparations, and act accordingly.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Treasures of the Heart
Scripture: Luke 12:16-21, 32-38
Then He told them a parable. "There was a rich man whose land produced a bountiful harvest. He asked himself, 'What shall I do, for I do not have space to store my harvest?' And he said, 'This is what I shall do: I shall tear down my barns and build larger ones. There I shall store all my grain and other goods and I shall say to myself, "Now as for you, you have so many good things stored up for many years, rest, eat, drink, be merry!" But God said to him, 'You fool, this night your life will be demanded of you; and the things you have prepared, to whom will they belong?' Thus will it be for the one who stores up treasure for himself but is not rich for God."
“Do not be afraid any longer, little flock, for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your belongings and give alms. Provide money bags for yourselves that do not wear out, an inexhaustible treasure in heaven that no thief can reach nor moth destroy. For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.”
"Gird your loins and light your lamps and be like servants who await their master's return from a wedding, ready to open immediately when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival. Amen, I say to you, he will gird himself, have them recline at table, and proceed to wait on them. And should he come in the second or third watch and find them prepared in this way, blessed are those servants."
Reaction: The above passages were part of the assigned Gospel readings for yesterday and today. While meditating on yesterday’s readings, I repeated the phrase, “Do not store up treasure for yourself, but be rich for God.” This led me to think of all the ways my life could be rich for God: having a deep relationship with Him, a fruitful prayer life, a satisfying bond between family and friends, days and nights filled with hope, love, and a sense of well-being. A footnote in the reading showed another translation of the verse: to be "rich in what matters to God." My thoughts then turned to the things that matter most to God: my faith, trust, love, obedience, compassion, generosity, and humility to name a few. If I try to build upon these traits, I will have plentiful treasures indeed.
Today’s Gospel focused on being watchful, observant and mindful of what the Lord expects from us. This reflects another goal I have set for myself: to always be tuned in to the needs of others and aware of how I might serve them. I often feel that I have missed opportunities to serve, but lately I’ve been more responsive, and this makes me feel very blessed and rewarded, adding to my spiritual treasures.
In between the two day’s Gospels were several verses which dealt with God’s providence. The phrase that especially struck me was “where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.” But what occurred to me was that really, where my heart is, there is my treasure. As I continue to strive to become more Christ-like, to be more aware of God’s presence in my life, and more attentive to where He is trying to lead me, my heart and my life are being filled with the treasures that really matter.
Then He told them a parable. "There was a rich man whose land produced a bountiful harvest. He asked himself, 'What shall I do, for I do not have space to store my harvest?' And he said, 'This is what I shall do: I shall tear down my barns and build larger ones. There I shall store all my grain and other goods and I shall say to myself, "Now as for you, you have so many good things stored up for many years, rest, eat, drink, be merry!" But God said to him, 'You fool, this night your life will be demanded of you; and the things you have prepared, to whom will they belong?' Thus will it be for the one who stores up treasure for himself but is not rich for God."
“Do not be afraid any longer, little flock, for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your belongings and give alms. Provide money bags for yourselves that do not wear out, an inexhaustible treasure in heaven that no thief can reach nor moth destroy. For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.”
"Gird your loins and light your lamps and be like servants who await their master's return from a wedding, ready to open immediately when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival. Amen, I say to you, he will gird himself, have them recline at table, and proceed to wait on them. And should he come in the second or third watch and find them prepared in this way, blessed are those servants."
Reaction: The above passages were part of the assigned Gospel readings for yesterday and today. While meditating on yesterday’s readings, I repeated the phrase, “Do not store up treasure for yourself, but be rich for God.” This led me to think of all the ways my life could be rich for God: having a deep relationship with Him, a fruitful prayer life, a satisfying bond between family and friends, days and nights filled with hope, love, and a sense of well-being. A footnote in the reading showed another translation of the verse: to be "rich in what matters to God." My thoughts then turned to the things that matter most to God: my faith, trust, love, obedience, compassion, generosity, and humility to name a few. If I try to build upon these traits, I will have plentiful treasures indeed.
Today’s Gospel focused on being watchful, observant and mindful of what the Lord expects from us. This reflects another goal I have set for myself: to always be tuned in to the needs of others and aware of how I might serve them. I often feel that I have missed opportunities to serve, but lately I’ve been more responsive, and this makes me feel very blessed and rewarded, adding to my spiritual treasures.
In between the two day’s Gospels were several verses which dealt with God’s providence. The phrase that especially struck me was “where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.” But what occurred to me was that really, where my heart is, there is my treasure. As I continue to strive to become more Christ-like, to be more aware of God’s presence in my life, and more attentive to where He is trying to lead me, my heart and my life are being filled with the treasures that really matter.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Proclaimed on the Housetops
Scripture: Luke 12:1-3
Meanwhile, so many people were crowding together that they were trampling one another underfoot. He began to speak, first to his disciples, "Beware of the leaven--that is, the hypocrisy--of the Pharisees. There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops.”
Reaction: This short passage had very many messages for me. First, that I must avoid hypocrisy by trying to portray myself as very holy and pious. It is true that I have made great strides in putting Christ first in my life, but I still have many flaws and sinful tendencies, so I need to remain humble and contrite. After all, most of my evil ways have been made known, or will be revealed in due time, as nothing concealed will remain so. But the positive aspect of this consequence of sin is that my weaknesses can be a motivating force for me to do better, and especially to help me become more aware of the attitudes and practices that are less than Christ-like. And the revelation of these secret tendencies will also keep me humble before others.
One aspect not mentioned in this passage was that of forgiveness. Even though I have succumbed to darkness and transgression, I know that my offenses have been wiped clean by Jesus Christ. This passage did not imply punishment or embarrassment to me, but rather hope, growth, and pardon. Another impression I had during my meditation was that just as my the failings will eventually be seen in the light of day, and perhaps even shouted from the rooftops, so might my gifts. I have great hope that all of the graces God has showered upon me will also shine forth for others to see, so that they too may come to know the joy that I have discovered in Jesus and the Word. I do not count myself as holier than anyone else for receiving these graces, but rather as a sincere seeker who has asked the Lord for His presence and His peace, and was able to recognize that these requests have been granted. If anything I have whispered in the darkness of my bedroom were to be proclaimed on the housetops, I would want it to be this: Thank you Lord, for granting me, a sinner, with Your pardon and Your peace, with the gifts of faith, hope and charity, and with the joy of Your salvation.
Meanwhile, so many people were crowding together that they were trampling one another underfoot. He began to speak, first to his disciples, "Beware of the leaven--that is, the hypocrisy--of the Pharisees. There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops.”
Reaction: This short passage had very many messages for me. First, that I must avoid hypocrisy by trying to portray myself as very holy and pious. It is true that I have made great strides in putting Christ first in my life, but I still have many flaws and sinful tendencies, so I need to remain humble and contrite. After all, most of my evil ways have been made known, or will be revealed in due time, as nothing concealed will remain so. But the positive aspect of this consequence of sin is that my weaknesses can be a motivating force for me to do better, and especially to help me become more aware of the attitudes and practices that are less than Christ-like. And the revelation of these secret tendencies will also keep me humble before others.
One aspect not mentioned in this passage was that of forgiveness. Even though I have succumbed to darkness and transgression, I know that my offenses have been wiped clean by Jesus Christ. This passage did not imply punishment or embarrassment to me, but rather hope, growth, and pardon. Another impression I had during my meditation was that just as my the failings will eventually be seen in the light of day, and perhaps even shouted from the rooftops, so might my gifts. I have great hope that all of the graces God has showered upon me will also shine forth for others to see, so that they too may come to know the joy that I have discovered in Jesus and the Word. I do not count myself as holier than anyone else for receiving these graces, but rather as a sincere seeker who has asked the Lord for His presence and His peace, and was able to recognize that these requests have been granted. If anything I have whispered in the darkness of my bedroom were to be proclaimed on the housetops, I would want it to be this: Thank you Lord, for granting me, a sinner, with Your pardon and Your peace, with the gifts of faith, hope and charity, and with the joy of Your salvation.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Sharper Than Any Two-edged Sword
Scripture: Hebrews 4:12-13
Brothers and sisters: Indeed the word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even between soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart. No creature is concealed from him, but everything is naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must render an account.
Reaction: Today I contemplated on the second reading from yesterday’s Mass, which really spoke to me. I know that I have received great joy and peace while praying with the word of God, and this passage reminded me that it indeed alive and effectual. At times the same scripture can mean something totally new on a second or third contemplation, showing the vitality of His word. It is most effective when I am able to apply the message in my everyday life, as when I practice more patience and kindness, or when my worries over the future are calmed by trust in the Lord.
Today I envisioned the two-edged sword piercing my joints and marrow, exposing the positive and negative traits that are stored within me. I saw fear and faith, greed and generosity, pride and humility, selfishness and selflessness all uncovered as the word of God sliced into me. Then I imagined that my negative traits were slowly being cut away, so that the positive traits had room to grow. That, I hope, is how my prayer sessions with the Lord and His word are having an effect on me.
Brothers and sisters: Indeed the word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even between soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart. No creature is concealed from him, but everything is naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must render an account.
Reaction: Today I contemplated on the second reading from yesterday’s Mass, which really spoke to me. I know that I have received great joy and peace while praying with the word of God, and this passage reminded me that it indeed alive and effectual. At times the same scripture can mean something totally new on a second or third contemplation, showing the vitality of His word. It is most effective when I am able to apply the message in my everyday life, as when I practice more patience and kindness, or when my worries over the future are calmed by trust in the Lord.
Today I envisioned the two-edged sword piercing my joints and marrow, exposing the positive and negative traits that are stored within me. I saw fear and faith, greed and generosity, pride and humility, selfishness and selflessness all uncovered as the word of God sliced into me. Then I imagined that my negative traits were slowly being cut away, so that the positive traits had room to grow. That, I hope, is how my prayer sessions with the Lord and His word are having an effect on me.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
You are Lord of All
Scripture: Esther C: 2-4
O Lord, You have given everything its place in the world, and no one can make it otherwise. For it is Your creation, the heavens and the earth and the stars; You are Lord of all.
Reaction: This verse was the Entrance Song for every Mass this week, so I decided to reflect on it today. My mediation reinforced ideas that I’ve had in the past: that all good things come from God, that He is the Master Planner, and that all things are done according to His will. I was filled with a great appreciation of all the wonders that God has created, knowing that everything was planned and given its rightful place by our loving Creator. As the wind howled outside my window, my thoughts started to wander a bit, turning toward the unseasonably cold and rainy weather we’ve had lately. It’s true that my mind sometimes drifts while I’m praying, and I try to get back on track as quickly as I can. But this time my reverie seemed to fit very nicely with this reading. Autumn has always been my favorite season of the year, and I keep looking for those glorious crisp and sunny October days that make it so. Even though we’ve only had a few hours of sunshine this month (or so it seems!), I always enjoy the coming of each new season. September rather than January has always seemed to be the start of the new year for me, and this year it is especially so, since I’ve resumed my subbing at the schools and have started teaching a fitness class through community education. So even though the weather doesn’t reflect my idea of autumn, the heavens and the earth and the stars dictate that fall has arrived. This was meaningful to me because it shows how God’s plan unfolds, sometimes unexpectedly, and often not the way we would have it. Yet we cannot make it otherwise, for God has arranged everything for His own purpose. He is the Lord and Master of all, and I am happy that I have come to know Him.
O Lord, You have given everything its place in the world, and no one can make it otherwise. For it is Your creation, the heavens and the earth and the stars; You are Lord of all.
Reaction: This verse was the Entrance Song for every Mass this week, so I decided to reflect on it today. My mediation reinforced ideas that I’ve had in the past: that all good things come from God, that He is the Master Planner, and that all things are done according to His will. I was filled with a great appreciation of all the wonders that God has created, knowing that everything was planned and given its rightful place by our loving Creator. As the wind howled outside my window, my thoughts started to wander a bit, turning toward the unseasonably cold and rainy weather we’ve had lately. It’s true that my mind sometimes drifts while I’m praying, and I try to get back on track as quickly as I can. But this time my reverie seemed to fit very nicely with this reading. Autumn has always been my favorite season of the year, and I keep looking for those glorious crisp and sunny October days that make it so. Even though we’ve only had a few hours of sunshine this month (or so it seems!), I always enjoy the coming of each new season. September rather than January has always seemed to be the start of the new year for me, and this year it is especially so, since I’ve resumed my subbing at the schools and have started teaching a fitness class through community education. So even though the weather doesn’t reflect my idea of autumn, the heavens and the earth and the stars dictate that fall has arrived. This was meaningful to me because it shows how God’s plan unfolds, sometimes unexpectedly, and often not the way we would have it. Yet we cannot make it otherwise, for God has arranged everything for His own purpose. He is the Lord and Master of all, and I am happy that I have come to know Him.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
To Receive the Holy Spirit
Scripture: Luke 11:9-13
“And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. What father among you would hand his son a snake when he asks for a fish? Or hand him a scorpion when he asks for an egg? If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?”
Reaction: I have read this very famous Bible passage many times, but I don’t remember noting that the way the Lord answers our requests is by giving us the Holy Spirit. In the past I always focused on receiving what I asked for, what I want, but not necessarily what I need. In my meditation today, it became quite clear that regardless of what I’m seeking, what I’m asking for, what I want delivered to me through the open door, the Holy Spirit always plays a major role. It is His grace that allows me to be aware of God’s presence in nature, in His word, and in my very being; to accept my limitations and recognize my talents; to find strength, courage and acceptance as I endure my earthly trials; to be filled with joy and appreciation for the blessings I have received; to trust in God’s providence and in His love for me; to be filled with hope for the good things to come, accompanied by the gift of patience when I’m frustrated that the Lord’s timeline is not my own. I cannot think of a single supplication I have made to the Lord that is not covered by one of these graces. Even if I don’t receive the exact ‘thing’ I’m requesting (be it a certain job I’ve applied for, a specific event to take place, or relief from physical or mental anguish), I know that the Holy Spirit is there giving me the grace I need to accept everything that’s going on in my life, and the power to deal with it. I might not receive the fish or the egg I’ve asked for, but neither do I get a snake or a scorpion. Instead I get real spiritual nourishment that will sustain me throughout my days. I continue to ask the Holy Spirit for these graces, along with the determination and the faithfulness to use them as He intends.
“And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. What father among you would hand his son a snake when he asks for a fish? Or hand him a scorpion when he asks for an egg? If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?”
Reaction: I have read this very famous Bible passage many times, but I don’t remember noting that the way the Lord answers our requests is by giving us the Holy Spirit. In the past I always focused on receiving what I asked for, what I want, but not necessarily what I need. In my meditation today, it became quite clear that regardless of what I’m seeking, what I’m asking for, what I want delivered to me through the open door, the Holy Spirit always plays a major role. It is His grace that allows me to be aware of God’s presence in nature, in His word, and in my very being; to accept my limitations and recognize my talents; to find strength, courage and acceptance as I endure my earthly trials; to be filled with joy and appreciation for the blessings I have received; to trust in God’s providence and in His love for me; to be filled with hope for the good things to come, accompanied by the gift of patience when I’m frustrated that the Lord’s timeline is not my own. I cannot think of a single supplication I have made to the Lord that is not covered by one of these graces. Even if I don’t receive the exact ‘thing’ I’m requesting (be it a certain job I’ve applied for, a specific event to take place, or relief from physical or mental anguish), I know that the Holy Spirit is there giving me the grace I need to accept everything that’s going on in my life, and the power to deal with it. I might not receive the fish or the egg I’ve asked for, but neither do I get a snake or a scorpion. Instead I get real spiritual nourishment that will sustain me throughout my days. I continue to ask the Holy Spirit for these graces, along with the determination and the faithfulness to use them as He intends.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
All Things Are Possible
Scripture: Mark 10:17-27
As Jesus was setting out on a journey, a man ran up, knelt down before him, and asked him, "Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" Jesus answered him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; you shall not defraud; honor your father and your mother." He replied and said to him, "Teacher, all of these I have observed from my youth." Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said to him, "You are lacking in one thing. Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me." At that statement his face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions. Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!" The disciples were amazed at his words. So Jesus again said to them in reply, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for one who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." They were exceedingly astonished and said among themselves, "Then who can be saved?" Jesus looked at them and said, "For human beings it is impossible, but not for God. All things are possible for God."
Reaction: This is the reading for the 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time, which we discuss at our prayer group tomorrow. I have often been puzzled by this scripture, wondering if God really expects us to give all of our possessions to the poor. But today that did not seem to be the thrust of this reading; instead, the phrase that jumped out at me was "For human beings it is impossible, but not for God.” I felt that what Jesus is really asking of me is to give as much as I can to the poor, especially when unexpected events come up. I need to be aware and open to helping out wherever I can, even if I thing that it might ‘blow my budget’. Recent circumstances have given me to opportunity to do this, and for that I am grateful. But what is more difficult for me is to set aside the desire to plan out my financial savings plan, a habit I’ve had since I was an early teen. It would seem that this would be an insurmountable task for me, but then, for God all things are possible. During my meditation, I realized that while I have come a long way in trusting God’s providence, I am sometimes still lacking in this regard. But I continue to pray that the idea of financial security will continue to diminish in importance to me, a notion that might seem impossible for me, but with God’s grace it can be done.
As Jesus was setting out on a journey, a man ran up, knelt down before him, and asked him, "Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" Jesus answered him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; you shall not defraud; honor your father and your mother." He replied and said to him, "Teacher, all of these I have observed from my youth." Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said to him, "You are lacking in one thing. Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me." At that statement his face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions. Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!" The disciples were amazed at his words. So Jesus again said to them in reply, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for one who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." They were exceedingly astonished and said among themselves, "Then who can be saved?" Jesus looked at them and said, "For human beings it is impossible, but not for God. All things are possible for God."
Reaction: This is the reading for the 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time, which we discuss at our prayer group tomorrow. I have often been puzzled by this scripture, wondering if God really expects us to give all of our possessions to the poor. But today that did not seem to be the thrust of this reading; instead, the phrase that jumped out at me was "For human beings it is impossible, but not for God.” I felt that what Jesus is really asking of me is to give as much as I can to the poor, especially when unexpected events come up. I need to be aware and open to helping out wherever I can, even if I thing that it might ‘blow my budget’. Recent circumstances have given me to opportunity to do this, and for that I am grateful. But what is more difficult for me is to set aside the desire to plan out my financial savings plan, a habit I’ve had since I was an early teen. It would seem that this would be an insurmountable task for me, but then, for God all things are possible. During my meditation, I realized that while I have come a long way in trusting God’s providence, I am sometimes still lacking in this regard. But I continue to pray that the idea of financial security will continue to diminish in importance to me, a notion that might seem impossible for me, but with God’s grace it can be done.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Turn and Become Like a Child
Scripture: Matthew 18:1-5
The disciples approached Jesus and said, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?” He called a child over, placed it in their midst, and said, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me.”
Reaction: Today I reflected on what Jesus meant when He instructed His disciples to become like children. Various childhood images played out in my mind: running through an open field on a warm summer day, arms spread out as if I were flying; snuggling up to my mother under an afghan as a snowstorm raged outside; walking to school on a crisp autumn day, crunching through the fallen leaves and fanaticizing about the best school year ever. I remembered how important it was for me to please my parents, and how comforting it was to know that they’d always be there for me, no matter what. Even though we weren’t particularly well off, I don’t ever remember feeling deprived or in need of any material items. My childhood did have its share of trials (most stemming from issues with my mentally challenged sister), but I always felt loved.
As I meditated, these thoughts and images were translated into ways I could turn and become like a child to Christ, even in this stage of my life. I felt that Jesus was telling me: You are safe with Me. Trust Me, depend on Me, know that I love you and will always be with you. Strive to please me and take pleasure in our loving relationship. Feel free to be yourself, to let yourself soar to whatever heights you can attain. Have hope for the future, both in this world and the next. Rejoice in each new season and in all of the natural wonders I have created for your enjoyment. Be My child, just as I am Your loving parent.
The disciples approached Jesus and said, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?” He called a child over, placed it in their midst, and said, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me.”
Reaction: Today I reflected on what Jesus meant when He instructed His disciples to become like children. Various childhood images played out in my mind: running through an open field on a warm summer day, arms spread out as if I were flying; snuggling up to my mother under an afghan as a snowstorm raged outside; walking to school on a crisp autumn day, crunching through the fallen leaves and fanaticizing about the best school year ever. I remembered how important it was for me to please my parents, and how comforting it was to know that they’d always be there for me, no matter what. Even though we weren’t particularly well off, I don’t ever remember feeling deprived or in need of any material items. My childhood did have its share of trials (most stemming from issues with my mentally challenged sister), but I always felt loved.
As I meditated, these thoughts and images were translated into ways I could turn and become like a child to Christ, even in this stage of my life. I felt that Jesus was telling me: You are safe with Me. Trust Me, depend on Me, know that I love you and will always be with you. Strive to please me and take pleasure in our loving relationship. Feel free to be yourself, to let yourself soar to whatever heights you can attain. Have hope for the future, both in this world and the next. Rejoice in each new season and in all of the natural wonders I have created for your enjoyment. Be My child, just as I am Your loving parent.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Laborers for the Harvest
Scripture: Luke 10:1-9
Jesus appointed seventy-two other disciples whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. He said to them, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals; and greet no one along the way. Into whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this household.’ If a peaceful person lives there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you. Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you, for the laborer deserves his payment. Do not move about from one house to another. Whatever town you enter and they welcome you, eat what is set before you, cure the sick in it and say to them, ‘The Kingdom of God is at hand for you.’
Reaction: Today’s reading is again about evangelism, and yet I know that my recent attempts to proclaim the kingdom of God have been less than fruitful. But today I felt that I can indeed be a laborer for the master of the harvest even if gathering crops in not my forte. I can lend my hands in a supporting role, I can pray for others to discover the joy of living with the Lord, I can serve as an example to others as I continue to seek a deeper relationship with Christ. Since our faith-sharing group has met a few times now, I know that I am definitely not the person to lead spontaneous prayers or to speak eloquently on what Christ has done for me; yet, I do share my own prayerful reflections and encourage others to do so. I have fallen into a role I often served in the business world: the organizer of the group, ensuring the next meeting has both a venue and a leader. It turns out that our oldest group member is the most inspiring when it comes to leading group prayer and to sharing her profound faith with the rest of us. I believe that the Lord is using each of us to contribute what we can based on our abilities. Even our youngest and most reticent member serves a useful purpose: she gives others the opportunity to encourage her and draw her out, and we too are heartened that she continues to attend our discussions. Even the meeting hostesses are offering hospitality, and the peace of Christ is resting on all of us as we continue to build up one another through prayer and fellowship.
Jesus appointed seventy-two other disciples whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. He said to them, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals; and greet no one along the way. Into whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this household.’ If a peaceful person lives there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you. Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you, for the laborer deserves his payment. Do not move about from one house to another. Whatever town you enter and they welcome you, eat what is set before you, cure the sick in it and say to them, ‘The Kingdom of God is at hand for you.’
Reaction: Today’s reading is again about evangelism, and yet I know that my recent attempts to proclaim the kingdom of God have been less than fruitful. But today I felt that I can indeed be a laborer for the master of the harvest even if gathering crops in not my forte. I can lend my hands in a supporting role, I can pray for others to discover the joy of living with the Lord, I can serve as an example to others as I continue to seek a deeper relationship with Christ. Since our faith-sharing group has met a few times now, I know that I am definitely not the person to lead spontaneous prayers or to speak eloquently on what Christ has done for me; yet, I do share my own prayerful reflections and encourage others to do so. I have fallen into a role I often served in the business world: the organizer of the group, ensuring the next meeting has both a venue and a leader. It turns out that our oldest group member is the most inspiring when it comes to leading group prayer and to sharing her profound faith with the rest of us. I believe that the Lord is using each of us to contribute what we can based on our abilities. Even our youngest and most reticent member serves a useful purpose: she gives others the opportunity to encourage her and draw her out, and we too are heartened that she continues to attend our discussions. Even the meeting hostesses are offering hospitality, and the peace of Christ is resting on all of us as we continue to build up one another through prayer and fellowship.
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