How Often Lord?

Peter approached Jesus and asked him, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times. -Matthew 18:21

As Christians we pray very often if not everyday the Prayer that Jesus taught us, otherwise known as the Our Father. There are so many layers to this simple and quick prayer. This is often recited without peeling back the many beautiful layers that lie within it. One part of the prayer states: "Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive others who trespass against us." Really? Do we really want the Lord to forgive us in the same manner that we do for others? If so, great. It means you're a forgiving person. If the answer is no, you must proceed with caution. So many times we ask for God's mercy and forgiveness, yet we withhold it from one another. Immediately following the verse above Jesus tells a parable. The ending of that parable has the servant being thrown in prison until his last debt was paid because he refused to offer the same forgiveness that he sought from the Master. 

As we seek forgiveness from the Lord may we too offer forgiveness to others. How often you ask? How about as often as you seek it from the Lord!

Childlike

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 becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me. - Matthew 18:1-5

A young child is so innocent. A child is open to life, learning, and to others. A child places complete trust in the person entrusted with his care. A child has joy and a unbelievable way to comfort those hurting. This is what it means to be childlike. This is what it takes to enter the Kingdom of heaven.

Are you innocent?
Are you open to life, learning, and to others?
Do you place your trust in God the same way a child places his trust in a parent?
Do you have joy?
Are you able to be compassionate to those who are hurting?

Sometimes as adults we allow the pains and struggles of the world to strangle our innocence. We begin to close ourselves off to others and think we know it all. We don't trust God because we have been let down by people who were meant to protect us. We turn from joy and live with anger and resentment. We lose our compassion for others and allow jealously to be our guide.

Don't despair for God can renew all things. The question is, will you invite God to give you new life?

The Power of Anger

"You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment. But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment." - Matthew 5:21-22

Once more Jesus challenges his disciples. He states that both killing and anger are both liable to judgment. An initial response may be to reject Jesus' words. Some might wish to discredit or think it was some mistake. So why would Jesus make this claim? What is He saying? We must not forget that Jesus always invites his disciples to further reflection and more radical living. To be a disciple means to avoid settling for the easy path, limiting the call to holiness or rationalizing immoral behavior. 

Our world today is full of countless stories where individuals walk down a path of hate and choose to release it by taking the life of another. Where does that hate come from? No one is born to hate. Quite the contrary we are born to love! Yet, as we mature we somehow learn to hate. Hate grows and if one was to search out the root of hate they would most likely find anger. Anger divides, insults, and slanders. Anger leads to lies through the tools of deception and manipulation. Anger destroys relationships, feeds hate and is outlet for ignorance. Above all it can lead to death!

Jesus knows that anger if left unchecked will lead to death. With this awareness we can teach others and ourselves to look for the red flags when anger begins to unmask its ugly face. We must not be ignorant of its potential but be ready to channel its power into passion for life.

By the way, when was the last time anger made you or your situation better? Honestly, anger will never make you or your situation better. No matter how much you may try to justify it, the only thing anger will do is create further division and unhappiness. Anger will weigh you down and rob you of your joy. There will no doubt be times when you get angry, but your response in words and deeds will be the true test of Christian discipleship. 

Don't waste your precious days nor risk your salvation for this empty and deflating emotion! If you find yourself filled with so much anger or even hate I want you to know Jesus gave you a key to unlock it. It is the key of forgiveness. Forgiveness never approves the wrongdoing nor denies any pain. Forgiveness gives you the freedom to live again. Do not allow the weight of anger, resentment and hate to hold you back any longer. It will free you to experience life in a whole new way. It was no mere coincidence that Jesus encouraged his disciples time after time to forgive. For it is through forgiveness that you can experience God's grace, rediscover joy and find true fulfillment.

It is better to cry than to be angry, because anger hurts others, while tears flow silently through the soul and cleanses the heart. -Saint John Paul II

Light of the World

"You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lamp stand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” -Matthew 5:14-16

Right after Jesus teaches his disciples the beatitudes He immediately proclaims them the light of the world! I'm sure this proclamation brought about puzzled faces. It is a common response of Christians to remain hidden or disguised. There is desire to remain insignificant in false humility or to shy away from our Christian responsibility in fear. This is why Jesus affirms that a city set on a mountain cannot be hidden nor a lamp be placed under a basket. Jesus is saying we are significant. Jesus affirms we have purpose. He doesn't let any of us off the hook rather he reminds us we are meant to shine! We are called to make a difference in the world!

We are able to shine before others with the light of Christ given to us at our baptism. Like Jesus Himself, His light is meant to be shared. It is a light that must not be hidden nor disguised. As followers of Christ we are sent to bring the light of Christ to a world that often chooses darkness. This is no easy task, but Jesus asks us to shine in His name. In so doing we allow others to see our good deeds, not out of attention or reward, but so that they too may glorify the heavenly Father.

Go shine! Live with purpose! Make a difference! Allow others to see your good deeds so that they too may glorify the heavenly Father! 

Have Faith

Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. - John 14:1

This verse is part of the Last Supper discourses found in chapter 14 of John's Gospel. Through these discourses Jesus is preparing His disciples for his ensuing passion and death. In a way, Jesus is encouraging them much like a coach with a player before a big game or a teacher with a student before a big test. He wants them to remember all He has taught them. He needs them to trust that despite the obstacles that may come, He is never far away!

We, like the disciples, have moments where we doubt and situations where we don't have the answer. We also wonder why something has to happen the way it does and question whether we are strong enough to endure. The words Jesus spoke to his disciples over 2000 years ago are the same for us. DO NOT LET YOUR HEARTS BE TROUBLED! 

By letting our hearts become troubled we simply focus on what is crippling us and only see that which is wrong. This is never helpful nor redemptive. Rather, Jesus tells us to maintain faith, to trust that He is present and to remember His promise. His promise to guide, deliver, and save us! 

Jesus will always be the way, the truth, and the life. And so if Jesus is the way he will offer you a path! If Jesus is the truth he will help you to discover it and be set free by it! And if Jesus be the life, He will bring you through suffering and death to newness of life!

The Path

I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk, give you counsel and watch over you. -Psalm 32:8

I have always loved the image of a journey to speak about the spiritual life. No one can escape the necessity to choose a way in life, to follow a path. We may disagree that it is spiritual or even call it by different names, but the fact remains, we are all going somewhere and in order to do so, we must journey. The decision to travel down a certain path over another means that each of us must accept the highs, lows, joys, pains, and consequences, good or bad, that come along with it.

As children we are normally told by family which path to take. There are little worries or concerns. We need only to hold the hand of our loved one or keep on eye on them from a distance. If we are guided by loving adults and do as we are told we remain safe.

As adolescents we suddenly come to know everything! Thus, we think we do not need to listen as much and if we take the wrong path it is always someone else's fault. Some can make it through adolescence having learned from elders and have a clearer image of what path to take into the future. While others may want to completely forge their own way, even if it means putting their person at risk by going down a dangerous path.

As adults we have learned to accept personal responsibility. Based on life experiences we strive to do our best by making the wisest choices possible at any given point. Part of maturity is realizing that although we must take personal responsibility, it doesn't mean we must go at it alone. We can turn to others to take counsel and direction for our own journey. We can depend on others to walk with us along the way. Whether the accompaniment is for a short time or the long haul, we need not do it alone.

As Christians there is nothing greater than knowing God's great love for us. In love, God gives us a way and accompaniment to guide us along the way. The way is Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6). The company for the journey is the Church. We need others to help us along the way. People who love us enough to tell the truth, but respects our freedom to make our own decision. Along the journey God provides all we need. Direction, accompaniment, nourishment, light, grace, and healing remedies. We are asked to trust and to stay the course. Yet, even if we get lost for a time or in anger leave the path, we can always come back! However, if we go off path we must accept personal responsibility and place blame on no one else, "Sometimes a way seems right to a man, but the end of it leads to death" (Proverbs 16:25). This is the gift of free will. In the end, if we stay the course and make use of God's gifts, He will indeed instruct us, give us counsel and watch over us!

God First Loved Us

One of the scribes came to Jesus and asked him, “Which is the first of all the commandments?” Jesus replied, “The first is this: Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength." - Mark 12:28-30

What does it truly mean to love God with all of one's heart, soul, mind, and strength? Often it is said that this verse means to put God before everything else in life. This perspective sounds appealing, but then again, do we do this? Do we reflect daily on how we might better love God before all else? Do we learn from our failures so as to help us to grow and do better? What are the obstacles that prevent us from loving God above everything else?

My brothers and sisters, as much as it is important to reflect on how we can better love God, this cannot be the starting point. “Since God has first loved us (cf. 1 Jn 4:10), love is now no longer a mere “command”; it is the response to the gift of love with which God draws near to us” (Pope Benedict XVI). The starting point is always God, not us!

By focusing first on God and God’s free gift of love, we move away from the negative and turn to the positive. Often times our days are so filled with looking at failures and imperfections that we become easily frustrated and discouraged. It then becomes increasingly difficult to respond with love. We may do it for a while out of mere obligation, but soon it may altogether come to an end. Why? The focus becomes us rather then God! Thus, we see only the impossible rather than the possible.

For love is not focused on all that is wrong, but concentrates on what is right and allows for that which is good to be nourished and take root! Fidelity helps us to stay the course and to remember the who and the why! 

So take your eyes off yourself and place your gaze upon God!  Begin each day by seeking God's presence, power, blessing, and love! When you willingly accept God’s perfect love for you, God will transform your doubt into faith, weakness into strength, failure into victory, and sin into new life!

“God does not require that we be successful only that we be faithful." –Blessed Mother Teresa

Love Your Enemy

Jesus said to his disciples: “You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? - Matthew 5:43-46

When was the last time you prayed for someone who in some way persecuted you? What was the content of your prayer to God? Perhaps it was something like this: "God change this person from his/her evil ways and do it as fast as you can!" 

We often want others to change on our own terms and conditions. I don't believe changing the other person was Jesus' focus in this passage. Rather, Jesus demanded His disciples to always take the lead and to be the first to do what was right. Jesus desires His disciples never to shut down or shut out others or God, on the contrary, to always have one's heart and soul open. Open to God and to others. God is love and love is what truly can bring about change. Change in us and change in others. 

Love first invites me to open my heart and soul so as to be free to consider: my attitude, my thoughts, my decisions, my words, and my reaction.  After self reflection than I can better respond to others in my life with a foundation of love including enemies. Blessed John Paul II once said, "Do not forget that true love sets no conditions; it does not calculate or complain, but simply loves." 

Jesus is not suggesting you go out to a movie with an enemy, to accept abuse or to pretend as if all is well. After all, wrong is wrong and we must always stand for what is right and just. As we stand for what is right and just, we need to remember that LOVE must always be a part of the equation. You see Jesus is inviting you to look beyond the external words and acts of your enemy. Jesus desires you go deeper and to consider the soul. This is where prayer is needed. You must honestly and consistently pray for the heart and soul of your enemy. Refrain from focusing your time and energy on solely the exterior. For when you pray for your enemy to open his/her heart and soul to the presence of God the exterior change will follow. Be patient and do not grow weary. When you do grow impatient, it just might be an invitation to consider whether your heart and soul is still open to God and to others!

"Darkness can only be scattered by light, hatred can only be conquered by love."-Blessed John Paul II

Conversion-You Shall Surely Live

Thus says the Lord GOD: If the wicked man turns away from all the sins he committed, if he keeps all my statutes and does what is right and just, he shall surely live, he shall not die. None of the crimes he committed shall be remembered against him; he shall live because of the virtue he has practiced. Do I indeed derive any pleasure from the death of the wicked? says the Lord GOD. Do I not rather rejoice when he turns from his evil way that he may live? - Ezekiel 18:21-23

Unlike what some might believe, God is not out to get us! At the same time, God does not take delight in our wrongdoing! Ultimately, God wills that all shall live! This is why God sets forth commands. This is why God sent his Son, Jesus. This is why Jesus gave us the Church to continually teach and guide us. For if we are left alone or confused by the values of the world, there is no doubt sin will consume us. Why is this? It is because sin turns us from God, weighs us down, and ultimately leads us to death.

As humans we will make mistakes. We will fall down. We will sin. Through it all, God offers us the opportunity to correct the mistakes, to get back up and ultimately turn away from sin. When we acknowledge our mistakes and seek God we are as good as new. God offers us this newness of life.

It alarms me when individuals tend to cast away the dangers of sin. It disappoints me when Christians settle with being a good person. It saddens me when Catholics believe the teachings of the Church are too demanding and unnecessary to live by. Jesus challenged all whether religious leaders, apostles, or those He met along the way to turn away from sin. The Gospel message must challenge us to grow and to change. The New Testament clearly affirms that Jesus came to show us the way and to save us from our sins. Love invites us to experience hope, to live with joy and not to be afraid.  Pope Francis shares, “Although the life of a person is in a land full of thorns and weeds, there is always a space in which the good seed can grow. You have to trust God.”

Thus, do not put off making change when you are in wrong. Do not turn to the justification of your wrongdoing. Do not be discouraged by sin. Know in your heart that God rejoices in giving you new life! "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 8-9).

"Sin is an offense against God: "Against you, you alone, have I sinned, and done that which is evil in your sight." Sin sets itself against God's love for us and turns our hearts away from it. Like the first sin, it is disobedience, a revolt against God through the will to become "like gods," knowing and determining good and evil. Sin is thus "love of oneself even to contempt of God." In this proud self-exaltation, sin is diametrically opposed to the obedience of Jesus, which achieves our salvation." (CCC #1850)

Forgiveness

“If you forgive men their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive men, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions.” - Matthew 6:14-15

Don't confuse forgiveness with the acceptance of wrongdoing. If forgiveness had to do with the acceptance of a wrong then we would be saying God is accepting of our sin. Psalm 5 denies God's acceptance of sin, "You are not a god who delights in evil; no wicked person finds refuge with you." God wants always to be the source of our refuge. Thus, God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him (John 3:17).  This is affirmed when St. Joseph was told by an angel, "You are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). The power of forgiveness is transformative! Jesus' sacrifice on the cross opened the door of salvation and showed us the power of forgiveness. As we await the day of salvation with hope, it is now that Jesus invites us to share in the transformative nature of forgiveness by seeking often the forgiveness of God and by offering forgiveness to one another. 

It is disheartening that so many people today miss out on the transformative power of forgiveness because they do not seek it from God or they withhold it because they believe that forgiveness somehow translates into the acceptance of a wrong. This is not what forgiveness means. The Catechism of the Catholic Church offers a wonderful outlook on forgiveness, “It is not in our power not to feel or to forget an offense; but the heart that offers itself to the Holy Spirit turns injury into compassion and purifies the memory in transforming the hurt into intercession” (Paragraph 2843).

Pope Francis recently shared, “What is the joy of God? It is to forgive!” When we do not forgive we fill ourselves with hate, resentment, and anger. There is little room for joy! Forgiveness is to free one to experience joy and when necessary the healing that only God can offer. Jesus knew the importance of forgiveness and thus said to Peter when he asked how often should he forgive, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times” (Matthew 18:22). Do yourself the favor and offer forgiveness to someone who has done you wrong. If you truly want to experience joy seek also the Sacrament of Reconciliation and receive the peace and grace that God offers to you and me.

One last point! Before we get too comfortable and choose not to forgive one another. We may want to remember the words of Jesus, “If you forgive men their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive men, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions.”

Jesus is Calling

Jesus saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the customs post. He said to him, “Follow me.”  – Luke 5:27

Commonly the call from the Lord is interpreted as for a chosen few. We tend to believe the call is for somebody else. Ordinarily the term is thought to be in reference to those thinking about the priesthood or religious life. While there is no doubt that there are those called to serve the Lord in a particular way as a Priest or Religious Sister, the call is not reserved for them alone. The call is for every Christian. The call to follow the Lord is an invitation to be intimately connected and in relationship with Jesus. Jesus doesn’t wait until we are perfect or have everything in order to make that invitation. Although it is true Jesus calls us at varying times for diverse reasons and tasks, the call itself does not wait until we believe we are desirable enough for the Lord or when we feel we are fully “qualified.”

The common responses to a call from the Lord are normally: Who me? You have the wrong person! I’m not holy enough! I’ve made too many mistakes! Certainly there is someone better! Excuses and more excuses. We all have them. Yet, Jesus doesn’t respond by saying, “maybe you are right, sorry for the inconvenience, I will be on my way!” No, Jesus knows exactly whom He is calling! He is calling a sinner, like you and me. He calls us to get up from where we are in the midst of the sin, excuses, comfort, and fears to follow Him.

I must admit it is not always easy to follow the Lord. He expects the best out of us. He expects us to look forward and not to look back. He expects us to trust Him to get to the heavenly destination, yet conveniently doesn’t inform us of the side roads it will take to get there. Despite our own apprehension, Jesus is faithful. Through it all He forgives us when we fall short, He encourages us when we want to turn back, and He walks with us through every twist and turn.

Imagine how the world would be if every Christian truly felt called and fully embraced the mission! Look back at those Jesus has called and reflect on their story: Think about Peter, Andrew, Paul and the other Apostles. Recall Mary Magdalene, Zacchaeus, the woman at the well, and Nicodemus. Remember John Paul II, Mother Teresa, Padre Pio, Teresa of Avila, Francis of Assisi and other great saints in the Church. Great is the number of remarkable people that responded to the call of the Lord. They include not only individuals known by so many, but numerous others known only to the Lord. I recently heard a person’s reflection that every great saint in the Church first considered himself or herself to be a great sinner. Those we know as Saints were not great or remarkable because they were perfect. They became great and did remarkable things because they acknowledged themselves as sinners and still responded to the call to follow the Lord.

There is no doubt in my mind that choosing to follow the Lord will change the world even if only one soul at a time. Will you respond to the call and be a part of it?  Will you have the courage to overcome your sins, excuses, comforts and fears to follow the Lord? 

Lent is the perfect time to listen more attentively to the call! Be not afraid.

(P.S. For those who have already responded to the call from the Lord, you can use Lent to reevaluate your own journey with the Lord. Are you faithfully following the Lord? Have you been distracted? Are you holding onto anger or any resentments? Have you wondered from Jesus' path and taken your own? Ongoing reflection and evaluation is key to a life with the Lord.)

Fasting

This, rather, is the fasting that I wish: releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke; Setting free the oppressed, breaking every yoke; Sharing your bread with the hungry, sheltering the oppressed and the homeless; Clothing the naked when you see them, and not turning your back on your own. Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your wound shall quickly be healed; Your vindication shall go before you, and the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer, you shall cry for help, and he will say: Here I am! -Isaiah 58:5-9

It is often asked in Lent, “What are you giving up?” There are the classic choices like chocolate, soda, dessert, smoking, drinking. With technology in excessive use some have decided to give up completely Facebook and Twitter or cut back on the amount of time on the internet and television. There is no doubt that any amount of sacrifice is notable and can be helpful to the spiritual journey. However, the reason behind the sacrifice is of great importance. The season of lent is more than giving up something for a period of time and then over indulging after the season is over. Fasting enables us to take time, which is often bombarded by distractions and the normal activities that prevent us from being focused on the Lord. Fasting enables us to listen more attentively to the message of the Lord, rather than the message of the world. Fasting enables us to be others centered and not merely self-centered.

So we should essentially be asking ourselves this question: What can I fast from that will give me more time to focus on the Lord and others? What do I need to refrain from in my life to better respond to the call from the Lord? The prophet Isaiah captures the type of fasting that God desires. Isaiah focuses on fasting that helps us to refocus our lives on the things that really matter in the eyes of God, reaching out to one another. It is the same example that Jesus gives to us in the Gospel. Jesus came to give life and to give it in abundance (John 10:10). Jesus came to bring healing of mind, body and spirit (Luke 5:23-24). Jesus came to reach out in love (John 13:34). Jesus came to forgive us our sins and to grant us salvation (John 3:16). Thus, we use the season of lent to recall Jesus’ life, passion, and great sacrifice on the cross. In gratitude we then look to live the example of the Lord to one another. We are called to do as Jesus commanded, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19).

Don’t let anyone discourage you from what you have given up for lent this year. However, challenge yourself to really reflect on the reason for your fast. Ask yourself, does this fast help me to focus on the message of God and help me to reach out to others. If so, great! Keep going strong and may your Lenten journey bear much fruit. If not, it’s not too late to re-evaluate and make adjustments so that this lent is not the same as usual, but one truly focused on the life of Christ, which calls on us to focus on God and to reach out to others.

Came across this on the internet thought it had good suggestions

Failure to Victory

There is a thought by some that in order to believe in God and to follow Christ one must be without fault or sin. This is not entirely correct. Although Jesus calls us to be perfect as the Heavenly Father is perfect, we, nonetheless are sinners in need of forgiveness and salvation. Enter Jesus! Jesus came into the world to save us and to show us the way! Since the beginning of time God has called humanity into a relationship knowing that with free will we can at times fall short of the holiness we are called to live. God always recalls the goodness with which He created us and so provides the grace needed to overcome the evil and to choose good. The moral is when we fall short or slip up that we don't go backwards or give up. Rather we get back up and live with gratitude for God's grace which gives us the strength to live another day and to strive for holiness! So don't just look at your mistakes or your blemishes. Instead allow God to use you for His glory and for the salvation of the world.

Make a Choice

If you choose you can keep the commandments, they will save you; if you trust in God, you too shall live; he has set before you fire and water to whichever you choose, stretch forth your hand. Before man are life and death, good and evil, whichever he chooses shall be given him. Immense is the wisdom of the Lord; he is mighty in power, and all-seeing. The eyes of God are on those who fear him; he understands man’s every deed. No one does he command to act unjustly, to none does he give license to sin. –Sirach 15:15-20

The wisdom of Ben Sira otherwise known as the book of Sirach in the Old Testament provides a wealth of knowledge and valuable direction for the journey of faith. Life is full of choices one must make. It is not always easy and there will be bumps along the way. This is why God wishes to accompany His people on the journey. God can see the entire way and thus knows the roads to travel. If one allows, God can take a person to the highest of mountaintops and maneuver through any valley of death. No person can know for sure what he or she will see along the way, but in faith is asked to trust that the Lord will guide in safety to a heavenly destination. A destination that cannot be fully understood in this world for as we hear in the Scriptures, “what eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and what has not entered the human heart, what God has prepared for those who love him” (1 Cor 2:9).

Nevertheless, there are some who refuse to believe if they can’t see it all or hear everything. It is one thing to refuse to believe for faith cannot be imposed  yet it is another thing when these same individuals begin to mock others by proclaiming that faith is an easy way out and a form of weakness that takes away one’s freedom. I beg to differ. I believe those individuals do not like the idea that they are not completely in control. Thus, they need to convince themselves and others that they can forge any path and choose their own destiny. In fact, pride and power can lead one to think he doesn’t need direction from anybody nor she has anything further to learn. Additionally, pride and power can make one believe his license gives him the right to take any road he so desires and for her to think that nothing nor anybody can stop her along the way. These selfish beliefs can only lead to reckless behavior and imprudent choices. This deception leads to a thought that everything and anything is a god given right with no consequences for partaking. This is anything but the truth. Yet, through it all, God continues to give to each a choice to make. The decision is completely free. The only thing God requires is for the choice to be made. "Let your ‘Yes’ mean ‘Yes,' and your ‘No’ mean ‘No’" (Matthew 5:37).

So what is your choice? Is it a yes to trust the Lord and to follow His commands? Or is it a no? I can understand the temptation to say both yes and no. Yes to have the Lord guide us when troubles come, but at other moments wanting the freedom to do our own thing. We cannot have the Lord be our part time passenger. As often as we try it cannot be this way. We need to make a choice: yes or no! A yes doesn’t mean we will not have questions nor make mistakes. It is a yes to affirm each day to follow the commands of the Lord even if it means sacrificing for something greater. “Blessed those whose way is blameless who walk by the law of the Lord. Blessed those who keep His testimonies who seek Him with all their heart” (Psalm 119:1-2).

We must make the choice. You must know to follow the Lord will not be easy. It will at times cause you to be mocked and isolated. Nevertheless it will not be in vain. For if you are willing to trust the Lord, remember this: “what eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and what has not entered the human heart, what God has prepared for those who love him” (1 Cor 2:9).

Love Is Hard Work

"Beloved, we love God because he first loved us. If anyone says, “I love God,” but hates his brother, he is a liar; for whoever does not love a brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. This is the commandment we have from him: Whoever loves God must also love his brother." - 1 John 4:19-21

It is so disappointing to hear when people, who profess a belief in and love for God, choose words and take actions that provoke hate for another person. This is not of God. This doesn't mean we cannot be angered, frustrated, and perturbed by the choices people make or the actions they take. However, when we take those emotions and direct them at others with hateful words and actions we are no better than the awful act that provoked our initial response to begin with. Do others do things that are hateful and wrong? Of course it happens and when it does it is no doubt wrong! However, as Christians, our response cannot be hate. It must always be love. This is not a love that pretends the wrong never happened, but a love that differentiates a person from his actions and chooses to address the wrong not with hateful speech or actions, but with concern for the soul of the other and the common good of all. We must rise above the wrong and stay true to who we are as followers of Christ. Don't jump into the mud with everyone else. The only thing that comes from jumping in the mud is that then we are all filthy. At the same time, we cannot run away from the problems because this also doesn't make things better nor relieves us of our responsibility. Life is not easy for anyone. We all carry our own baggage and deal with our own struggles. Hate is the easy way out! Love is much harder work. However, in the end, love is the only thing that leads us closer to God who is Love. If you can't differentiate a wrong act from the person, how can we expect God to do the same with us? There will be those who will make their choices and it won't be of God. They will have to answer for their choices, but so will we. Be mindful of your words and actions. Be attentive of how you address wrong. Always choose to respond with love for your brother and when we do, we come to love God even more!

“The person who loves God cannot help loving every man as himself, even though he is grieved by the passions of those who are not yet purified. But when they amend their lives, his delight is indescribable and knows no bounds. A soul filled with thoughts of sensual desire and hatred is unpurified. If we detect any trace of hatred in our hearts against any man whatsoever for committing any fault, we are utterly estranged from love for God, since love for God absolutely precludes us from hating any man.” --St. Maximos the Confessor

"Spread love everywhere you go: first of all in your own house. Give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to a next door neighbor... Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting." --Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Third Week of Advent - A Spiritual Journey towards Christmas

Discovering the Presence of Christ - Daily Gospel Reflections

December 15, 2013

Gospel Reading:

When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus with this question, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.” As they were going off, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, “What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. Then why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you. Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” Matthew 11:2-11

Reflection:

Are you the one who is to come or should we look for another? This is what Jesus was asked today in the Gospel. In a similar way this same question is being asked in different ways today. Is Jesus the Son of God or only a great prophet? Is Jesus the Messiah or only a great philosopher? There is a tendency to reduce Jesus to a great figure in the world of religions than to believe whom He said He was, the Son of God. I have heard on numerous occasions individuals refer to Jesus as a great teacher, yet they cannot believe He is the Son of God. We all can choose to believe what we believe, but it would be completely wrong to refer to Jesus as anything, but the Son of God. Why? This is because Jesus never claimed to be a great teacher or philosopher. He claimed to be the Son of God. After all, for this reason Jesus was crucified on the Cross. As disciples of Jesus it is our responsibility to profess and to live with Jesus as the Lord of our lives. Living as disciples requires us to be part of the Body of Christ, the Church. We are not renegade disciples called to live our faith in isolation from each other. Rather we are called to be part of the Church to walk with each other and to be nourished collectively.

Action:

Reflect on who Jesus is for you? How does a relationship with Christ change your life? Pray for your Christian brothers and sisters in the world who are persecuted for their belief in Jesus.

December 16, 2013

Gospel Reading:

When Jesus had come into the temple area, the chief priests and the elders of the people approached him as he was teaching and said, “By what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you this authority?” Jesus said to them in reply, “I shall ask you one question, and if you answer it for me, then I shall tell you by what authority I do these things. Where was John’s baptism from? Was it of heavenly or of human origin?” They discussed this among themselves and said, “If we say ‘Of heavenly origin,’ he will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ we fear the crowd, for they all regard John as a prophet.” So they said to Jesus in reply, “We do not know.” He himself said to them, “Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things.” –Matthew 21:23-27

Reflection:

In the course of one’s faith journey there will be a time when one’s motives will be questioned. There are individuals who look to catch you in a lie or wait for you to fall. This was no different for Jesus. The chief priests and elders of the people were looking to do the same with Jesus. Only Jesus could see their ulterior motives and turn in back on them. He didn’t do it with anger or with hate in His heart. He was calm, yet straightforward. You can learn much from Jesus. In those moments when individuals question your motives you must remain calm, keep your cool and refrain from returning evil with evil. Preach the Word and live your faith. Be sure to know in your heart why you do what you do and whom you ultimately strive to serve. Always be at the service of God!

Action:

Pray for someone whom you may have mistakenly questioned their motives. Reflect on why you do what you do in regards to your service to God.

December 17, 2013

Gospel Reading:

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Thus the total number of generations from Abraham to David is fourteen generations; from David to the Babylonian exile, fourteen generations; from the Babylonian exile to the Christ, fourteen generations. –Matthew 1:1, 17 (Read Matthew 1:2-16 for complete genealogy)

Reflection:

The genealogy of Jesus we read in the Gospel of Matthew is much more than a laundry list of difficult names to read. The genealogy does two things for us. First, it shows to us that God is intimately linked to His people throughout all of these generations. As people of faith we all descend from our father Abraham. Ever since Abraham left behind his home and trusted in God there has been a special relationship between God and His people. The second thing the genealogy does is to let us know God always has a plan. God has great and bountiful plans for each one of us and He is always at work bringing to light those plans. It is our task to know we too share in God’s plans and then to do all within our means to discern and cooperate with those plans. Even through all the messiness of numerous generations, Jesus enters it all. God will enter into our own messiness to bring peace, joy and love.

Action:

Where is there a messy situation in your life today? Pray God’s light enters and brings forth peace, joy, and love.

December 18, 2013

Gospel Reading:

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.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.” When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home. He had no relations with her until she bore a son, and he named him Jesus. –Matthew 1:18-25

Reflection:

The Gospels say very little about St. Joseph. Despite the silence on his part there is much to learn from this humble, obedient, and righteous man. The little we do know about Joseph comes to us from the Gospel of Matthew, especially today’s reading. There is no doubt Joseph had an important role in the life of Jesus. From the beginning of Jesus’ life, Joseph was present to him and Mary. He was faithful and attentive to the will of the Father. St. Joseph shows to us the importance of silence in our lives. Silence does not mean a person is unconcerned or uninterested. Pope Benedict XVI in speaking about St. Joseph says, “His is a silence permeated by contemplation of the mystery of God, in an attitude of total availability to his divine wishes. In other words, the silence of St Joseph was not the sign of an inner void, but on the contrary, of the fullness of faith he carried in his heart, and which guided each and every one of his thoughts and actions.” In a society all too often filled with much noise and egocentric behavior, we can learn much from St. Joseph. We can use his example to find time for silence and to make ourselves more available to God.

Action:

Look to enter into silence today. Spend ten minutes without any noise or distractions. Be silent before the presence of God.

December 19, 2013

Gospel Reading:

But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, because your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He will drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s womb, and he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah to turn the hearts of fathers toward children and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous, to prepare a people fit for the Lord.” Then Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” And the angel said to him in reply, “I am Gabriel, who stand before God. I was sent to speak to you and to announce to you this good news. But now you will be speechless and unable to talk until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled at their proper time.” Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah and were amazed that he stayed so long in the sanctuary. But when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the sanctuary. He was gesturing to them but remained mute. Then, when his days of ministry were completed, he went home. After this time his wife Elizabeth conceived, and she went into seclusion for five months, saying, “So has the Lord done for me at a time when he has seen fit to take away my disgrace before others.” –Luke 1:13-25

Reflection:

In the Gospel of St. Luke we read that Zechariah like Mary was visited by the Angel Gabriel to announce the birth of a child. Both were told not to be afraid when given the news. Although the responses of both seem to be similar, there is a subtle difference. A difference highlighted by the fact that Zechariah is given a punishment of sorts by being silenced until the birth of his son, John. Zechariah’s response warranted proof from the Angel Gabriel while Mary had only a question, which ultimately led to her acceptance without proof. We, in many ways, are similar to Zechariah. At certain times in our life we require proof from God. We tend to ask God for signs to prove He is faithful to His promises. When it comes to faith it is not about having all the answers. It is placing our complete trust in the promises of God. It is to know that God is always faithful and will always lead us through. When we are tempted to ask for proof or to be sent a sign, may we look to the Incarnation which was, is and will always be the proof of God’s love for the world.

Action:

The next time you are tempted to ask for proof from God choose instead to respond with a similar response of Mary, “Let it be down according to your word.”

December 20, 2013

Gospel Reading:

The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. 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. Luke 1:26-38

Reflection:

As disciples of Jesus we are also sent forth by God to carry the message of salvation. The angel Gabriel certainly brought THE message of salvation by announcing the birth of the Messiah. The angel Gabriel had no idea how Mary would respond or if she was willing to accept the message. The angel completed his task, which was to go forth and to announce the good news. In a similar way, we too must embrace that we are sent to announce the good news of Jesus Christ to others. Our responsibility is not based upon the acceptance of the message. The responsibility is only to go forth and announce. The message is not our own. God doesn’t ask us to determine who we think should receive it, rather, God only sends us forth to announce. When we do go out and announce the good news, we never really know who might just hear it and how they will respond. They might just respond like our Blessed Mother, “Let it be done according to your word.”

Action:

Go and deliver a message of God’s love to someone else today. It might be as simple as telling someone, God loves you!

December 21, 2013

Gospel Reading:

Mary set out in those days and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” –Luke 1:39-45

Reflection:

The power and work of the Holy Spirit is like nothing else! Much like we hear in the reading today, the Holy Spirit fills us with joy and sends us out to share that joy with others. It is a joy that is not self-contained, but motivates us to share it with others. A person that exuberates the power of the Holy Spirit is Pope Francis. He lets the Holy Spirit fill him in such a way that it becomes contagious to others. He never ceases from sharing the good news with the world through his words and example. I would like to end my reflection today with the words of Pope Francis: “Let's ask ourselves: are we open to the Holy Spirit, do I pray to him to enlighten me, to make me more sensitive to the things of God? And this is a prayer we need to pray every day, every day: Holy Spirit may my heart be open to the Word of God, may my heart be open to good, may my heart be open to the beauty of God, every day. But I would like to ask a question to all of you: How many of you pray every day to the Holy Spirit? Eh, a few of you I bet, eh! Well, a few, few, a few, but we realize this wish of Jesus, pray every day for the Holy Spirit to open our hearts to Jesus.”

Action:

Say a prayer inviting the Holy Spirit to open your heart to Jesus.