Daily Readings for September 30, 2015

1ST READING

Today, we celebrate the Feast of St. Jerome, great biblical scholar and translator of the Vulgate, the original Latin edition of the Scriptures. As we celebrate his love for the Word of God, let us pray that we will follow his example and spend the rest of our lives studying the depths of its meanings for us. The Scriptures are never outdated. It is the most published text in the history of humanity. Let us be sure that we give the Scriptures the appropriate attention they deserve.

Nehemiah 2:1-8

1 In the month Nisan of the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when the wine was in my charge, I took some and offered it to the king. As I had never before been sad in his presence, 2 the king asked me, “Why do you look sad? If you are not sick, you must be sad at heart.” Though I was seized with great fear, 3 I answered the king: “May the king live forever! How could I not look sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been eaten out by fire?” 4 The king asked me, “What is it, then, that you wish?” I prayed to the God of heaven 5 and then answered the king: “If it please the king, and if your servant is deserving of your favor, send me to Judah, to the city of my ancestors’ graves, to rebuild it.” 6 Then the king, and the queen seated beside him, asked me how long my journey would take and when I would return. I set a date that was acceptable to him, and the king agreed that I might go. 7 I asked the king further: “If it please the king, let letters be given to me for the governors of West-of-Euphrates, that they may afford me safe-conduct until I arrive in Judah; 8 also a letter for Asaph, the keeper of the royal park, that he may give me wood for timbering the gates of the temple-citadel and for the city wall and the house that I shall occupy.” The king granted my requests, for the favoring hand of my God was upon me.

P S A L M

Psalm 137:1-2, 3, 4-5, 6

R: Let my tongue be silenced if I ever forget you!

1 By the streams of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion. 2 On the aspens of that land we hung up our harps. (R) 3 Though there our captors asked of us the lyrics of our songs, and our despoilers urged us to be joyous: “Sing for us the songs of Zion!” (R) 4 How could we sing a song of the Lord in a foreign land? 5 If I forget you, Jerusalem, may my right hand be forgotten! (R) 6 May my tongue cleave to my palate if I remember you not, if I place not Jerusalem ahead of my joy. (R)

GOSPEL

Once we make up our mind to follow Jesus, there is no turning back. Being a disciple of Jesus ,involves our whole being until the day we die. Jesus takes priority over everything and everyone else. It can be difficult to juggle this with family, work and other responsibilities, but there can be no sidestepping the issue. Jesus should be number one in our lives.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

I consider all things so much rubbish that I may gain Christ and be found in him.

Luke 9:57-62

57 As Jesus and his disciples were proceeding on their journey, someone said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” 58 Jesus answered him, “Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.” 59 And to another he said, “Follow me.” But he replied, “Lord, let me go first and bury my father.” 60 But he answered him, “Let the dead bury their dead. But you, go and proclaim the Kingdom of God.” 61 And another said, “I will follow you, Lord, but first let me say farewell to my family at home.” 62 Jesus answered him, “No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God.

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Daily Readings for September 29, 2015

1ST READING

The angels are a separate part of Creation. They have chosen their allegiance — to God or the devil — for there is no repentance and conversion for them. The seven Archangels, three of whom are featured in the Scriptures — Michael, Raphael and Gabriel — have major roles as messengers of God’s strength, healing and word. God can choose to minister to us however He chooses, and He chooses angels once in a while.

Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14 (or Revelations 12:7-12)

9 As I watched: Thrones were set up and the Ancient One took his throne. His clothing was bright as snow, and the hair on his head as white as wool; His throne was flames of fire, with wheels of burning fire. 10 A surging stream of fire flowed out from where he sat; thousands upon thousands were ministering to him, and myriads upon myriads attended him. The court was convened, and the books were opened. 13 As the visions during the night continued, I saw One like a son of man coming, on the clouds of heaven; when he reached the Ancient One and was presented before him, 14 He received dominion, glory, and kingship; nations and peoples of every language serve him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that shall not be taken away, his kingship shall not be destroyed.

P S A L M

Psalm 138:1-2, 2-3, 4-5

R: In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.

1 I will give thanks to you, O Lord, with all my heart, for you have heard the words of my mouth; in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise; 2 I will worship at your holy temple and give thanks to your name. (R) Because of your kindness and your truth; for you have made great above all things your name and your promise. 3 When I called, you answered me; you built up strength within me. (R) 4 All the kings of the earth shall give thanks to you, O Lord, when they hear the words of your mouth; 5 and they shall sing of the ways of the Lord: “Great is the glory of the Lord.” (R)

GOSPEL

John affirmed that angels are always ascending and descending from heaven, ministering God’s will, love and mercy to us. It is difficult to understand this. But let us be true to our faith and accept that God is free to minister to us, in whatever way He decides to do so, even through our guardian angels.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Bless the Lord, all you angels, you ministers, who do his will.

John 1:47-51

47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Here is a true child of Israel. There is no duplicity in him.” 48 Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.” 49 Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” 50 Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” 51 And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see the heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”

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Daily Readings for September 28, 2015

1ST READING

 

Zechariah assured the people that God’s dwelling place was in Jerusalem, the Holy City. He also referred to Jerusalem as the city found in the Apocalyptic writings, the City where God dwells forever. The New Jerusalem is the true homeland of God’s people. We must look beyond the earthly meaning of God’s Words and discover their eternal meaning. God dwells in the city of the New Jerusalem forever, and it is this city to which we truly belong as His disciples.

Zechariah 8:1-8

1 This word of the Lord of hosts came: Thus says the Lord of hosts: 2 I am intensely jealous for Zion, stirred to jealous wrath for her. 3 Thus says the Lord: I will return to Zion, and I will dwell within Jerusalem; Jerusalem shall be called the faithful city, and the mountain of the Lord of hosts, the holy mountain. 4 Thus says the Lord of hosts: Old men and old women, each with staff in hand because of old age, shall again sit in the streets of Jerusalem. 5 The city shall be filled with boys and girls playing in her streets. 6 Thus says the Lord of hosts: Even if this should seem impossible in the eyes of the remnant of this people, shall in those days be impossible in my eyes also, says the Lord of hosts? 7 Thus says the Lord of hosts: Lo, I will rescue my people from the land of the rising sun, and from the land of the setting sun. 8 I will bring them back to dwell within Jerusalem. They shall be my people, and I will be their God, with faithfulness and justice.

 

P S A L M

 

Psalm 102:16-18, 19-21, 29, 22-23

R: The Lord will build up Zion again, and appear in all his glory.

15 [16] The nations shall revere your name, O Lord, and all the kings of the earth your glory, 16 [17] when the Lord has rebuilt Zion and appeared in his glory; 17 [18] when he has regarded the prayer of the destitute, and not despised their prayer. (R) 18 [19] Let this be written for the generation to come, and let his future creatures praise the Lord: 19 [20] “The Lord looked down from his holy height, from heaven he beheld the earth, 20 [21] to hear the groaning of the prisoners, to release those doomed to die.” (R) 28 [29] The children of your servants shall abide, and their posterity shall continue in your presence. 21 [22] That the name of the Lord may be declared in Zion; and his praise, in Jerusalem, 22 [23] when the peoples gather together, and the kingdoms, to serve the Lord. (R)

 

GOSPEL

 

Competition for attention breaks Jesus’ heart. Leadership is all about service. Faith is all about loving God and our neighbor. Service is about meeting the needs of others. There is no place for seeking the glory of the world in the life of faith. Jesus is the greatest among us and the rest of us are far behind Him in greatness. 

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

The Son of Man came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.

Luke 9:46-50

46 An argument arose among the disciples about which of them was the greatest. 47 Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child and placed it by his side 48 and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest.” 49 Then John said in reply, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our  company.” 50 Jesus said to him, “Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”

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Daily Readings for September 27, 2015

1ST READING

Let us never try to manipulate the grace of God and the way He apportions it to us. Let us trust God’s wisdom as to how He apportions His gifts and blessings to His people. Let us always rejoice that He does so and share what we have received with others. The Gospel will be best served through our manifestation of all that He has given to us.

Numbers 11:25-29

25 The Lord came down in the cloud and spoke to Moses. Taking some of the spirit that was on Moses, the Lord bestowed it on the seventy elders; and as the spirit came to rest on them, they prophesied. 26 Now two men, one named Eldad and the other Medad, were not in the gathering but had been left in the camp. They too had been on the list, but had not gone out to the tent; yet the spirit came to rest on them also, and they prophesied in the camp. 27 So, when a young man quickly told Moses, “Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp,” 28 Joshua, son of Nun, who from his youth had been Moses’ aide, said, “Moses, my lord, stop them.” 29 But Moses answered him, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the people of the Lord were prophets! Would that the Lord might bestow his spirit on them all!”

P S A L M

Psalm 19:8, 10, 12-13, 14

R: The precepts of the Lord give joy to the heart.

7 [8] The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul; the decree of the Lord is trustworthy, giving wisdom to the simple. (R) 9 [10] The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are true, all of them just. (R) 11 [12] Though your servant is careful of them, very diligent in keeping them, 12 [13] yet who can detect failings? Cleanse me from my unknown faults! (R) 13 [14] From wanton sin especially, restrain your servant; let it not rule over me. Then shall I be blameless and innocent of serious sin. (R)

2nd READING

Wealth in this life can be comforting and enjoyable. Just make sure this does not distract you from what God wants you to do in your life. Wealth can be time consuming, especially when we focus on guarding, maintaining and caring for it so that we do not lose it. However, losing the world’s wealth is nothing compared to losing the gift of eternal life. Let us always keep our hearts fixed on Jesus.

James 5:1-6

1 Come now, you rich, weep and wail over your impending miseries. 2 Your wealth has rotted away, your clothes have become moth-eaten, 3 your gold and silver have corroded, and that corrosion will be a testimony against you; it will devour your flesh like a fire. You have stored up treasure for the last days. 4 Behold, the wages you withheld from the workers who harvested your fields are crying aloud; and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. 5 You have lived on earth in luxury and pleasure; you have fattened your hearts for the day of slaughter. 6 You have condemned; you have murdered the righteous one; he offers you no resistance.

GOSPEL

Our sins are a danger to our salvation in more ways than one. They are a direct danger in that it excludes us from receiving the grace of God. They are also an indirect danger in the sense spoken of in today’s Gospel. If we cause another to sin, then this will be held against us. This is a serious thing as shown by the image that Jesus uses — that of jumping into a lake, with a millstone tied around our necks, than to lead another to sin.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Your word, O Lord, is truth; consecrate us in the truth.

Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48

38 At that time, John said to Jesus, “Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name, and we tried to prevent him  because he does not follow us.” 39 Jesus replied, “Do not prevent him. There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name who can at the same time speak ill of me. 40 For whoever is not against us is for us. 41 Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ, amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward. 42 “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were put around his neck and he were thrown into the sea. 43 If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed than with two hands to go into Gehenna, into the unquenchable fire. 45 And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life crippled than with two feet to be thrown into Gehenna. 47 And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. Better for you to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into Gehenna, 48 where ‘their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.’”

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Daily Readings for September 26, 2015

1ST READING

Zechariah told the Israelites who chose to stay in Babylon that the nation’s days of greatness were about to end. They must return to Jerusalem while they still can. This is the problem with worldly wealth — it ties us down to a particular place. It is very hard to take a mansion with you on a journey. However, the only journey that really matters is the one to eternal life, where God has already prepared homes for us. We do not need the wealth of this world in heaven. We have to overcome sin and worldly possessions, or we may miss out on eternal life.

Zechariah 2:5-9, 14-15

5 I, Zechariah, raised my eyes and looked: there was a man with a measuring line in his hand. 6 I asked, “Where are you going?” He answered, “To measure Jerusalem, to see how great is its width and how great its length.” 7 Then the angel who spoke with me advanced, and another angel came out to meet him 8 and said to him, “Run, tell this to that young man: People will live in Jerusalem as though in open country, because of the multitude of men and beasts in her midst. 9 But I will be for her an encircling wall of fire, says the Lord, and I will be the glory in her midst.” 14 Sing and rejoice, O daughter Zion! See, I am coming to dwell among you, says the Lord. 15 Many nations shall join themselves to the Lord on that day, and they shall be his people, and he will dwell among you.

P S A L M

Jeremiah 31:10, 11-12, 13

R: The Lord will guard us as a shepherd guards his flock.

10 Hear the word of the Lord, O nations, proclaim it on distant isles, and say: He who scattered Israel, now gathers them together, he guards them as a shepherd guards his flock. (R) 11 The Lord shall ransom Jacob, he shall redeem him from the hand of his conqueror. 12 Shouting, they shall mount the heights of Zion, they shall come streaming to the Lord’s blessings. (R) 13 Then the virgins shall make merry and dance, and young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into joy, I will console and gladden them after their sorrows. (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus spoke once again about His Passion, but His disciples did not understand and were afraid to broach the question to Him. Let us never be afraid to bring our questions to Jesus. The more we understand His will, the better we will be able to follow it. Jesus appreciates outright when we seek clarification because it means we are attentive to what He is asking of us and shows our desire to do well. Fear is not a part of discipleship. We can be sure that God welcomes our going to Him for advice.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Our Savior Christ Jesus destroyed death and brought life to light through the Gospel.

Luke 9:43-45

43 While they were all amazed at his every deed, Jesus said to his disciples, 44 “Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men.” 45 But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.

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Daily Readings for September 25, 2015

1ST READING

Even the prophecy of prosperity for the nation, failed to encourage the people about the rebuilding project. They have become selfish and concerned with their own wealth and comfort alone. Haggai could have been speaking to modernday society in this regard, where materialism and pleasure have become the new gods that sap the energy of the people of God. May my life never be influenced this way.

Haggai 1:15-2:1-9

1:15 In the second year of King Darius, 1 on the twenty-first day of the seventh month, the word of the Lord came through the prophet Haggai: 2 Tell this to the governor of Judah, Zerubbabel, son of Shealtiel, and to the high priest Joshua, son of Jehozadak, and to the remnant of the people: 3 Who is left among you that saw this house in its former glory? And how do you see it now? Does it not seem like nothing in your eyes? 4 But now take courage, Zerubbabel, says the Lord, and take courage, Joshua, high priest, son of Jehozadak, and take courage, all you people of the land, says the Lord, and work! For I am with you, says the Lord of hosts. 5 This is the pact that I made with you when you came out of Egypt, and my spirit continues in your midst; do not fear! 6 For thus says the Lord of hosts: One moment yet, a little while, and I will shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. 7 I will shake all the nations, and the treasures of all the nations will come in, and I will fill this house with glory, says the Lord of hosts. 8 Mine is the silver and mine the gold, says the Lord of hosts. 9 Greater will be the future glory of this house than the former, says the Lord of hosts; and in this place I will give you peace, says the Lord of hosts.

P S A L M

Psalm 43:1, 2, 3, 4

R: Hope in God; I will praise him, my savior and my God.

1 Do me justice, O God, and fight my fight against a faithless people; from the deceitful and impious man rescue me. (R) 2 For you, O God, are my strength. Why do you keep me so far away? Why must I go about in mourning, with the enemy oppressing me? (R) 3 Send forth your light and your fidelity; they shall lead me on and bring me to your holy mountain, to your dwelling-place. (R) 4 Then will I go in to the altar of God, the God of my gladness and joy; then will I give you thanks upon the harp, O God, my God! (R)

GOSPEL

Peter got it right this time. Jesus is the Christ of God. Jesus spoke to His disciples about His coming Passion to prepare them for the event — an event that will horrify and confuse them; an event that will become the heart of His mission of salvation. Jesus’ suffering is a mystery and a challenge to us. It challenges our understanding and asks us to see in our own suffering the redemptive value of uniting this with His.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

The Son of Man came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.

Luke 9:18-22

18 Once when Jesus was praying in solitude, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 They said in reply, “John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, ‘One of the ancient prophets has arisen.’” 20 Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said in reply, “The Christ of God.” 21 He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone. 22 He said, “The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”

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Daily Readings for September 24, 2015

1ST READING

Haggai prophesied at the time of the rebuilding of the Temple. We have already read this before, in Ezra. Haggai was horrified at the peoples’ unwillingness to do the rebuilding project of Ezra. Nehemiah prophesied accordingly. The people became too concerned about their comfort and did not want to make sacrifices to get the Temple and Jerusalem rebuilt.

Haggai 1:1-8

1 On the first day of the sixth month in the second year of King Darius, the word of the Lord came through the prophet Haggai to the governor of Judah, Zerubbabel, son of Shealtiel, and to the high priest Joshua, son of Jehozadak. 2 Thus says the Lord of hosts, “This people says: ‘The time has not yet come to rebuild the house of the Lord.” 3 (Then this word of the Lord came through Haggai, the prophet: 4 “Is it time for you to dwell in your own paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins?” 5 Now thus says the Lord of hosts: “Consider your ways! 6 You have sown much, but have brought in little; you have eaten, but have not been satisfied; you have drunk, but have not been exhilarated; have clothed yourselves, but not been warmed; and whoever earned wages earned them for a bag with holes in it.” 7 Thus says the Lord of hosts: “Consider your ways! 8 Go up into the hill country; bring timber, and build the house that I may take pleasure in it and receive my glory, says the Lord.”

P S A L M

Psalm 149:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 9

R: The Lord takes delight in his people.

1 Sing to the Lord a new song of praise in the assembly of the faithful. 2 Let Israel be glad in their maker, let the children of Zion rejoice in their king. (R) 3 Let them praise his name in the festive dance, let them sing praise to him with timbrel and harp. 4 For the Lord loves his people, and he adorns the lowly with victory. (R) 5 Let the faithful exult in glory; let them sing for joy upon their couches; 6 let the high praises of God be in their throats. 9 This is the glory of all his faithful. Alleluia. (R)

GOSPEL

Herod had John beheaded, a man whom he knew had done no wrong. Then Herod became interested in the words of Jesus, just as he was interested in the words of John before Him. Herod was weak and acted according to the whims of the crowd. This was what drew his attention to Jesus in the first place. He heard people talking as if John had been raised from the dead. Herod got his wish when the time came for the Passion of Jesus.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

I am the way and the truth and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father except through me.

Luke 9:7-9

7 Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, “John has been raised from the dead”; 8 others were saying, “Elijah has appeared”; still others, “One of the ancient prophets has arisen.” 9 But Herod said, “John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” And he kept trying to see him.

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Daily Readings for September 23, 2015

1ST READING

The people repented from the sins that led them into exile and recommitted themselves to God. Unfortunately, the same sins recurred in their life afterwards. It seems that they have not learned from their previous mistakes. Let us repent of our sins and avoid them in the future. Let us seek true holiness.

Ezra 9:5-9

5 At the time of the evening sacrifice, I, Ezra, rose in my wretchedness, and with cloak and mantle torn I fell on my knees, stretching out my hands to the Lord my God. 6 I said: “My God, I am too ashamed and confounded to raise my face to you, O my God, for our wicked deeds are heaped up above our heads and our guilt reaches up to heaven. 7 From the time of our fathers even to this day great has been our guilt, and for our wicked deeds we have been delivered up, we and our kings and our priests, to the will of the kings of foreign lands, to the sword, to captivity, to pillage, and to disgrace, as is the case today. 8 “And now, but a short time ago, mercy came to us from the Lord our God, who left us a remnant and gave us a stake in his holy place; thus our God has brightened our eyes and given us relief in our servitude. 9 For slaves we are, but in our servitude our God has not abandoned us; rather, he has turned the good will of the kings of Persia toward us. Thus he has given us new life to raise again the house of our God and restore its ruins, and has granted us a fence in Judah and Jerusalem.

P S A L M

Tobit 13:2, 3-4, 7-8

R: Blessed be God, who lives forever.

2 He scourges and then has mercy; he casts down to the depths of the nether world, and he brings up from the great abyss. No one can escape His hand. (R) 3 Praise him, you children of Israel, before the Gentiles, for though he has scattered you among them, 4 he has shown you his greatness even there. (R) 6 So now consider what he has done for you, and praise him with full voice. Bless the Lord of righteousness, and exalt the King of the ages. (R) In the land of my exile I praise him, and show his power and majesty to a sinful nation. (R) 7 Bless the Lord, all you his chosen ones, 8 and may all of you praise his majesty. Celebrate days of gladness, and give him praises. (R)

GOSPEL

For a week, I learned what it was like to go on a journey with “nothing.” There was freedom in trusting God for all that I need. There was freedom in missing a few meals and receiving the generosity of others. It was a faith-building experience. When all 15 of us returned, the sharing of our experiences was hilarious. The way God worked was amazing!

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

The Kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the Gospel.

Luke 9:1-6

1 Jesus summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, 2 and he sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. 3 He said to them, “Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money, and let no one take a second tunic. 4 Whatever house you enter, stay there and leave from there. 5 And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them.” 6 Then they set out and went from village to village proclaiming the good news and curing diseases everywhere.

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Daily Readings for September 22, 2015

1ST READING

The Temple was rebuilt with tributes from Babylonia and the labor of the people. It was a time of great rejoicing among the people, as shown by the number of animals sacrificed at the Temple’s rededication. The Temple was the central worship place for the Jews. Now that it was rebuilt, there was no reason for them not to return.

Ezra 6:7-8, 12, 14-20

7 King Darius issued an order to the officials of West-of-Euphrates: “Let the governor and the elders of the Jews continue to work on that house of God; they are to rebuild it on its former site. 8 I also issue this decree concerning your dealing with these elders of the Jews in the rebuilding of that house of God: From the royal revenue, the taxes of West-of-Euphrates, let these men be repaid for their expenses, in full and without delay. 12 I, Darius, have issued this decree; let it be carefully executed.” 14 The elders of the Jews continued to make progress in the building, supported by the message of the prophets, Haggai and Zechariah, son of Iddo. They finished the building according to the command of the God of Israel and the decrees of Cyrus and Darius and of Artaxerxes, king of Persia. 15 They completed this house on the third day of the month Adar, in the sixth year of the reign of King Darius. 16 The children of Israel — priests, Levites, and the other returned exiles — celebrated the dedication of this house of God with joy. 17 For the dedication of this house of God, they offered one hundred bulls, two hundred rams, and four hundred lambs, together with twelve he-goats as a sin offering for all Israel, in keeping with the number of the tribes of Israel. 18 Finally, they set up the priests in their classes and the Levites in their divisions for the service of God in Jerusalem, as is prescribed in the book of Moses. 19 The exiles kept the Passover on the fourteenth day of the first month. 20 The Levites, every one of whom had purified himself for the occasion, sacrificed the Passover for the rest of the exiles, for their brethren the priests, and for themselves.

P S A L M

Psalm 122:1-2, 3-4, 4-5

R: Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.

1 I rejoiced because they said to me, “We will go up to the house of the Lord.” 2 And now we have set foot within your gates, O Jerusalem. (R) 3 Jerusalem, built as a city with compact unity. 4 To it the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord. (R) According to the decree for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the Lord. 5 In it are set up judgment seats, seats for the house of David. (R)

GOSPEL

To be blessed by God, is to find favor with Him. It also means that we have committed ourselves to His will — an essential aspect of God finding favor with us. He finds favor with us because we have become trustworthy with His gifts and graces and we place them in the service of the Church and the Gospel. It is irrelevant to God who our ancestors might be. What matters to Him are our decisions regarding discipleship, whether or not we surrender our lives to His will.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it.

Luke 8:19-21

19 The mother of Jesus and his brothers came to him but were unable to join him because of the crowd. 20 He was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside and they wish to see you.” 21 He said to them in reply, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”

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Daily Readings for September 21, 2015

Feast of St. Matthew, Apostle, Evangelist

1ST READING

Faith is at the heart of an apostle’s calling. We must always make it the heart of our own. We are nothing if we are not surrendered to God’s will in all things. If we do whatever we want, then sin becomes our master, not God. Let us obey Jesus and follow where He leads us so that we will always serve Him and His Kingdom.

Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-13

1 Brothers and sisters: I, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to live in a manner worthy of the call you have received, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love, 3 striving to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace: 4 one Body and one Spirit, as you were also called to the one hope of your call; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. 7 But grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. 11 And he gave some as Apostles, others as prophets, others as evangelists, others as pastors and teachers, 12 to equip the holy ones for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of faith and knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the extent of the full stature of Christ.

P S A L M

Psalm 19:2-3, 4-5

R: Their message goes out through all the earth.

1 [2] The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. 2 [3] Day pours out the word to day, and night to night imparts knowledge. (R) 3 [4] Not a word nor a discourse whose voice is not heard; 4 [5] through all the earth their voice resounds, and to the ends of the world, their message. (R)

GOSPEL

Matthew, the tax collector, followed Jesus and became His disciple. He left us a witness to the life of Jesus in his Gospel. Let us thank God for the men and women who were obedient to Him and generous enough to lay down their lives in His service. Without them, the Gospel would never have been proclaimed to us. Let us continue what they began and pass on the Gospel to the next generation.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

We praise you, O God, we acclaim you as Lord; the glorious company of Apostles praise you.

Matthew 9:9-13

9 As Jesus passed by, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. He said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him. 10 While he was at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat with Jesus and his disciples. 11 The Pharisees saw this and said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 12 He heard this and said, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. 13 Go and learn the meaning of the words, I desire mercy, not sacrifice. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”

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Daily Readings for September 20, 2015

1ST READING

A good person suffers and a bad person thrives. This is one of life’s ironies that is hard to explain. To date, there is no universally accepted answer. As Christians, we know that suffering is a result of sin. The effect of sin is unjust and it always hurts even those who are innocent.

Wisdom 2:12, 17-20

12 The wicked say: Let us beset the just one, because he is obnoxious to us; he sets himself against our doings, reproaches us for transgressions of the law and charges us with violations of our training. 17 Let us see whether his words be true; let us find out what will happen to him. 18 For if the just one be the Son of God, God will defend him and deliver him from the hand of his foes. 19 With revilement and torture let us put the just one to the test that we may have proof of his gentleness and try his patience. 20 Let us condemn him to a shameful death; for according to his own words, God will take care of him.”

P S A L M

Psalm 54:3-4, 5, 6, 8

R: The Lord upholds my life.

1 [3] O God, by your name save me, and by your might defend my cause. 2 [4] O God, hear my prayer; hearken to the words of my mouth. (R) 3 [5] For the haughty have risen up against me, the ruthless seek my life; they set not God before their eyes. (R) 4 [6] Behold, God is my helper; the Lord sustains my life. 6 [8] Freely will I offer you sacrifice; I will praise your name, O Lord, for its goodness. (R)

2ND READING

Jealousy and ambition kill the work of the Holy Spirit. We are called to rejoice in the gifts that God gives to others as much as we do in the gifts He gives us. This puts an end to worldly ambition. As Christians, we always share our gifts for the sake of the greater good of the Kingdom of God.

James 3:16-4:3

16 Beloved: Where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every foul practice. 17 But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peaceable, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without inconstancy or insincerity. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace for those who cultivate peace. 4:1 Where do the wars and where do the conflicts among you come from? Is it not from your passions that make war within your members? 2 You covet but do not possess. You kill and envy but you cannot obtain; you fight and wage war. You do not possess because you do not ask. 3 You ask but do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.

GOSPEL

Jesus told His disciples that He was going to suffer. Then He placed a little child in front of them as He explained that ambition has no place in the work of the Kingdom of God. Both these ideas would have been shocking to the Jews in Jesus’ time. Their faith was distorted by sin as one person sought to outdo another in winning God’s favor. This would be fine if it was all about growing holiness. But it was not. We must make obedience to God’s will the truest measure of our holiness.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

God has called us through the Gospel to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Mark 9:30-37

30 Jesus and his disciples left from there and began a journey through Galilee, but he did not wish anyone to know about it. 31 He was teaching his disciples and telling them, “The Son of Man is to be handed over to men and they will kill him, and three days after his death the Son of Man will rise.” 32 But they did not understand the saying, and they were afraid to question him. 33 They came to Capernaum and, once inside the house, he began to ask them, “What were you arguing about on the way?” 34 But they remained silent. They had been discussing among themselves on the way who was the greatest. 35 Then he sat down, called the Twelve, and said to them, “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” 36 Taking a child he placed it in their midst, and putting his arms around it he said to them, 37 “Whoever receives one child such as this in my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but the One who sent me.”

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Daily Readings for September 19, 2015

1ST READING

Leadership is a sacred responsibility, not a right. Let us pray for all leaders that they recognize their responsibilities and fulfill them faithfully as they serve the people they lead. Let us be wary of those who seek leadership for the wrong reasons. They should never be given any authority in our communities.

1 Timothy 6:13-16

13 Beloved: I charge you before God, who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus, who gave testimony under Pontius Pilate for the noble confession, 14 to keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ 15 that the blessed and only ruler will make manifest at the proper time, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, and whom no human being has seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal power. Amen.

P S A L M

Psalm 100:1-2, 3, 4, 5

R: Come with joy into the presence of the Lord.

1 Sing joyfully to the Lord, all you lands; 2 serve the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful song. (R) 3 Know that the Lord is God; he made us, his we are; his people, the flock he tends. (R) 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, his courts with praise; give thanks to him; bless his name. (R) 5 For he is good: the Lord, whose kindness endures forever, and his faithfulness, to all generations. (R)

GOSPEL

We reflect once again on the parable of the sower. The seed that fell among the thorn bushes grew around and choked it. This is an image of the busyness of society today. We easily get caught up in the busyness of the world, which deprives us of time to serve the Church. Even modern gadgets consume so much of our time that we give less time for prayer. We must prevent these things from controlling our lives so that we can bear fruit.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Blessed are they who have kept the word with a generous heart and yield a harvest through perseverance.

Luke 8:4-15

4 When a large crowd gathered, with people from one town after another journeying to Jesus, he spoke in a parable. 5 “A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path and was trampled, and the birds of the sky ate it up. 6 Some seed fell on rocky ground, and when it grew, it withered for lack of moisture. 7 Some seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew with it and choked it. 8 And some seed fell on good soil, and when it grew, it produced fruit a hundredfold.” After saying this, he called out, “Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.” 9 Then his disciples asked him what the meaning of this parable might be. 10 He answered, “Knowledge of the mysteries of the Kingdom of God has been granted to you; but to the rest, they are made known through parables so that they may look but not see, and hear but not understand. 11 “This is the meaning of the parable. The seed is the word of God. 12 Those on the path are the ones who have heard, but the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts that they may not believe and be saved. 13 Those on rocky ground are the ones who, when they hear, receive the word with joy, but they have no root; they believe only for a time and fall away in time of temptation. 14 As for the seed that fell among thorns, they are the ones who have heard, but as they go along they are choked by the anxieties and riches and pleasures of life, and they fail to produce mature fruit. 15 But as for the seed that fell on rich soil, they are the ones who, when they have heard the word, embrace it with a generous and good heart, and bear fruit through perseverance.”

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Daily Readings for September 18, 2015

1ST READING

Everyone in the community needs to do their share in the service, or the community will suffer. We can neither leave all the work to a faithful few and expect it to flourish, nor can we leave control in the hands of an elite few. Relationships are always risky. There is a chance that people will disappoint one another. We have to take the risk and give people the chance to use their gifts, knowing that there may be some failures.

1 Timothy 6:2-12

2 Beloved: Teach and urge these things. 3 Whoever teaches something different and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the religious teaching 4 is conceited, understanding nothing, and has a morbid disposition for arguments and verbal disputes. From these come envy, rivalry, insults, evil suspicions, 5 and mutual friction among people with corrupted minds, who are deprived of the truth, supposing religion to be a means of gain. 6 Indeed, religion with contentment is a great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, just as we shall not be able to take anything out of it. 8 If we have food and clothing, we shall be content with that. 9 Those who want to be rich are falling into temptation and into a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge them into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is the root of all evils, and some people in their desire for it have strayed from the faith and have pierced themselves with many pains. 11 But you, man of God, avoid all this. Instead, pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness. 12 Compete well for the faith. Lay hold of eternal life, to which you were called when you made the noble confession in the presence of many witnesses.

P S A L M

Psalm 49:6-7, 8-10, 17-18, 19-20

R: Blessed the poor in spirit; the kingdom of heaven is theirs!

5 [6] Why should I fear in evil days when my wicked ensnarers ring me round? 6 [7] They trust in their wealth; the abundance of their riches is their boast. (R) 7 [8] Yet in no way can a man redeem himself, or pay his own ransom to God; 8 [9] too high is the price to redeem one’s life; he would never have enough 9 [10] to remain alive always and not see destruction. (R) 16 [17] Fear not when a man grows rich, when the wealth of his house becomes great, 17[18] for when he dies, he shall take none of it; his wealth shall not follow him down. (R) 18[19] Though in his lifetime he counted himself blessed, “They will praise you for doing well for yourself,” 19 [20] he shall join the circle of his forebears who shall never more see light. (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus’ ministry had different requirements, some of them monetary. Today’s Gospel is about some women who provided for the ministry. Faithful donors to many of the ministries of the Church are the unsung heroes. Without the generosity of people, a lot of the social works of the Church would not happen. Most religious orders have received large bequests that have provided for their works. Let us always be generous in supporting the good works of the Church.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.

Luke 8:1-3

1 Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God. Accompanying him were the Twelve 2 and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3 Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their resources.

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Daily Readings for September 17, 2015

1ST READING

The youth are the future of any organization. The head of the community needs to be an older statesman-like figure, but the next level must be peppered with younger people. Otherwise, the community will die. In today’s world, cultural and behavioral changes happen instantly, so the youth need to be represented to avoid generational problems from developing.

1 Timothy 4:12-16

12 Beloved: Let no one have contempt for your youth, but set an example for those who believe, in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. 13 Until I arrive, attend to the reading, exhortation, and teaching. 14 Do not neglect the gift you have, which was conferred on you through the prophetic word with the imposition of hands of the presbyterate. 15 Be diligent in these matters, be absorbed in them, so that your progress may be evident to everyone. 16 Attend to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in both tasks, for by doing so you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.

P S A L M

Psalm 111:7-8, 9, 10

R: How great are the works of the Lord.

7 The works of his hands are faithful and just; sure are all his precepts, 8 reliable forever and ever, wrought in truth and equity. (R) 9 He has sent deliverance to his people; he has ratified his covenant forever; holy and awesome is his name. (R) 10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; prudent are all who live by it. His praise endures forever. (R)

GOSPEL

Let us be generous with our forgiveness. It is difficult to forgive at times, but that is the only way to heal the hurts others have caused you. Jesus forgives all our sins. What right have we to withhold forgiveness from those who have sinned against us? The only way for God to heal us, is to let go of the sins others inflict upon us.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest, says the Lord.

Luke 7:36-50

36 A certain Pharisee invited Jesus to dine with him, and he entered the Pharisee’s house and reclined at table. 37 Now there was a sinful woman in the city who learned that he was at the table in the house of the Pharisee. Bringing an alabaster flask of ointment, 38 she stood behind him at his feet weeping and began to bathe his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them, and anointed them with the ointment. 39 When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, that she is a sinner.” 40 Jesus said to him in reply, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” “Tell me, teacher,” he said. 41 “Two people were in debt to a certain creditor; one owed five hundred days’ wages and the other owed fifty. 42 Since they were unable to repay the debt, he forgave it for both. Which of them will love him more?” 43 Simon said in reply, “The one, I suppose, whose larger debt was forgiven.” He said to him, “You have judged rightly.” 44 Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? When I entered your house, you did not give me water for my feet, but she has bathed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45 You did not give me a kiss, but she has not ceased kissing my feet since the time I entered. 46 You did not anoint my head with oil, but she anointed my feet with ointment. 47 So I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; hence, she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little.” 48 He said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 The others at table said to themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” 50 But he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

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Daily Readings for September 16, 2015

1ST READING

Paul made it a point to visit the communities he established. He would stay for an extended time with them in order to get them started. He also wrote to them frequently. Paul wanted the communities to know that he cared for them. He expressed his love through the introductions in his letters. Let us love with much fervor the faith communities to which we belong, and be committed to each member.

1 Timothy 3:14-16

14 Beloved: I am writing you, although I hope to visit you soon. 15 But if I should be delayed, you should know how to behave in the  household of God, which is the Church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of truth. 16 Undeniably great is the mystery of devotion, who was manifested in the flesh, vindicated in the spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed to the Gentiles, believed in throughout the world, taken up in glory.

P S A L M

Psalm 111:1-2, 3-4, 5-6

R: How great are the works of the Lord!

1 I will give thanks to the Lord with all my heart in the company and assembly of the just. 2 Great are the works of the Lord, exquisite in all their delights. (R) 3 Majesty and glory are his work, and his justice endures forever. 4 He has won renown for his wondrous deeds; gracious and merciful is the Lord. (R) 5 He has given food to those who fear him; he will forever be mindful of his covenant. 6 He has made known to his people the power of his works, giving them the inheritance of the nations. (R)

GOSPEL

You cannot please everyone. It does not matter what sort of coffee you give them. They will find fault with it. Have you ever met anyone like this? It is a challenge to love people who are hard to please, but love them we must. Jesus persevered with us through all our faults and failures. Let us be generous in the way we persevere with others. After all, we will probably be spending eternity with them.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life, you have the words of everlasting life.

Luke 7:31-35

31 Jesus said to the crowds: “To what shall I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? 32 They are like children who sit in the marketplace and call to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, but you did not dance. We sang a dirge, but you did not weep.’ 33 For John the Baptist came neither eating food nor drinking wine, and you said, ‘He is possessed by a demon.’ 34 The Son of Man came eating and drinking and you said, ‘Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ 35 But wisdom is vindicated by all her children.”

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