Daily Readings for November 30, 2015

Feast of St. Andrew, Apostle

1ST READING

St. Paul outlines here a basic structure of evangelization. We are still being sent out to proclaim the Gospel to others. But first we should proclaim the Gospel within our families, especially to our children. Let us be serious in our apostolic calling as Christians.

Romans 10:9-18

9 Brothers and sisters: If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For one believes with the heart and so is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and so is saved. 11 The Scripture says, “No one who believes in him will be put to shame.” 12 There is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all, enriching all who call upon him. 13 For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” 14 But how can they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach? 15 And how can people preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the good news!” 16 But not everyone has heeded the good news; for Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed what was heard from us?” 17 Thus faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ. 18 But I ask, did they not hear? Certainly they did; for “their voice has gone forth to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world.”

P S A L M

Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11

R: The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just.

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) 8 [9] The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the command of the Lord is clear, enlightening the eye. (R) 9 [10] The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are true, all of them just. (R) 10 [11] They are more precious than gold, than a heap of purest gold; sweeter also than syrup or honey from the comb. (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus calls us to follow Him. Some people are blessed to be able to remember a distinct calling, but most of us will not. We all have a role to play for God’s plan to succeed. Let us pray for the grace to understand His plan for us so that we will be able to fulfill our responsibilities.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Come after me, says the Lord, and I will make you fishers of men.

Matthew 4:18-22

18 As Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew, casting a net into the sea; they were fishermen. 19 He said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” 20 At once they left their nets and followed him. 21 He walked along from there and saw two other brothers, James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They were in a boat, with their father Zebedee, mending their nets. He called them, 22 and immediately they left their boat and their father and followed him.

Credits to: www.kerygmafamily.com

Daily Readings for November 29, 2015

First Sunday of Advent

1ST READING

The name of this future city — the Lord our Justice — reminds us how we must live to enter the Kingdom of heaven. We must live with integrity and not hypocrisy. This is a reality that the Church itself deals with in modern times. We are called the Church of the poor yet so many structures alienate the poor rather than include them. Many Church leaders live privileged lives rather than service.

Jeremiah 33:14-16

14 The days are coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and Judah. 15 In those days, in that time, I will raise up for David a just shoot; he shall do what is right and just in the land. 16 In those days Judah shall be safe and Jerusalem shall dwell secure; this is what they shall call her “The Lord our justice.”

P S A L M

Psalm 25:4-5, 8-9, 10, 14

R: To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.

4 Your ways, O Lord, make known to me; teach me your paths, 5 guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior, and for you I wait all the day. (R) 8 Good and upright is the Lord; thus he shows sinners the way. 9 He guides the humble to justice, he  teaches the humble his way. (R) 14 The friendship of the Lord is with those who fear him, and his covenant, for their instruction. (R)

2nd READING

We cannot wait for the Second Coming of Jesus to repent or live in holiness. By then it will be too late. We need to respond now. In his second letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul tells us that now is the acceptable time and today is the day of salvation. We should not delay our response to the Gospel. Let us live and proclaim the Gospel to the best of our abilities.

1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2

12 Brothers and sisters: May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we have for you, 13 so as to strengthen your hearts, to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his holy ones. Amen. 4:1 Finally, brothers and sisters, we earnestly ask and exhort you in the Lord Jesus that, as you received from us how you should conduct yourselves to please God — and as you are conducting yourselves — you do so even more. 2 For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.

GOSPEL

The Book of Revelation gives us simple warnings. They are reminders for us to live the Gospel without compromise. Once a compromise is made, it gets bigger and bigger until it becomes very serious and derails the plan of God for us.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Show us, Lord, your love; and grant us your salvation.

Luke 21:25-28, 34-36

25 Jesus said to his disciples: “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay,  perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves. 26 People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.” 34 “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise 35 like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. 36 Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”

Credits to: www.kerygmafamily.com

Daily Readings for November 28, 2015

1ST READING

The fantastic beasts of the apocalyptic writing are part of a writing style. They are not symbols that predict the future. It is the same with names and numbers. The imagery is used to disguise the message of hope and inspiration that the author conveys to the readers. This is how we should read and interpret this type of writing.

Daniel 7:15-27

15 I, Daniel, found my spirit anguished within its covering of flesh, and I was terrified by the visions of my mind. 16 I approached one of those present and asked him what all this meant in truth; in answer, he made known to me the meaning of the things: 17 “These four great beasts stand for four Kingdoms which shall arise on the earth. 18 But the holy ones of the Most High shall receive the kingship, to possess it forever and ever.” 19 But I wished to make certain about the fourth beast, so very terrible and different from the others, devouring and crushing with its iron teeth and bronze claws, and trampling with its feet what was left; 20 about the ten horns on its head, and the other one that sprang up, before which three horns fell; about the horn with the eyes and the mouth that spoke arrogantly, which appeared greater than its fellows. 21 For, as I watched, that horn made war against the holy ones and was victorious 22 until the Ancient One arrived; judgment was pronounced in favor of the holy ones of the Most High, and the time came when the holy ones possessed the kingdom. 23 He answered me thus: “The fourth beast shall be a fourth kingdom on earth, different from all the others; it shall devour the whole earth, beat it down, and crush it. 24 The ten horns shall be ten kings rising out of that kingdom; another shall rise up after them, different from those before him, who shall lay low three kings. 25 He shall speak against the Most High and oppress the holy ones of the Most High, thinking to change the feast days and the law. They shall be handed over to him for a year, two years, and a half-year. 26 But when the court is convened, and his power is taken away by final and absolute destruction, 27 then the kingship and dominion and majesty of all the kingdoms under the heavens shall be given to the holy people of the Most High, whose kingdom shall be everlasting: all dominions shall serve and obey him.”

P S A L M

Daniel 3:82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87

R: Give glory and eternal praise to him.

59 [Dan 3:82] “You sons of men, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 60 [Dan 3:83] “O Israel, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 61[Dan3:84] “Priests of the Lord, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 62 [Dan 3:85] “Servants of the Lord, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R)  63 [Dan 3:86] “Spirits and souls of the just, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 64 [Dan 3:87] “Holy men of humble heart, bless the Lord;  praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R)

GOSPEL

Vigilance and sobriety are essential to our spiritual life. Without them, the devil and his minions will easily find their way into our hearts and minds. It is also important that we know our faith so that we can defend what we believe in. Let us seek a greater understanding of God’s ways. This empowers us in our faith journey and helps us to overcome sin and temptation.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Be vigilant at all times and pray that you may have the strength to stand before the Son of Man.

Luke 21:34-36

34 Jesus said to his disciples: “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise 35 like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. 36 Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”

Credits to: www.kerygmafamily.com

Daily Readings for November 27, 2015

1ST READING

Daniel saw in the future a glorious age where goodness triumphs over evil. Will we witness that time? What is important is that we know that Jesus will come again and fulfill His promises. At the end of the world, God will banish evil forever and those who receive salvation will live with God forever in heaven.

Daniel 7:2-14

2 In a vision I, Daniel, saw during the night, the four winds of heaven stirred up the great sea, 3 from which emerged four immense beasts, each different from the others. 4 The first was like a lion, but with eagle’s wings. While I watched, the wings were plucked; it was raised from the ground to stand on two feet like a man, and given a human mind. 5 The second was like a bear; it was raised up on one side, and among the teeth in its mouth were three tusks. It was given the order, “Up, devour much flesh.” 6 After this I looked and saw another beast, like a leopard; on its back were four wings like those of a bird, and it had four heads. To this beast dominion was given. 7 After this, in the visions of the night I saw the fourth beast, different from all the others, terrifying, horrible, and of  extraordinary strength; it had great iron teeth with which it devoured and crushed, and what was left it trampled with its feet. 8 I was considering the ten horns it had, when suddenly another, a little horn, sprang out of their midst, and three of the previous horns were torn away to make room for it. This horn had eyes like a man, and a mouth that spoke arrogantly. 9 As I watched, Thrones were set up and the Ancient One took his throne. His clothing was snow bright, 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. 11 I watched, then, from the first of the arrogant words which the horn spoke, until the beast was slain and its body thrown into the fire to be burnt up. 12 The other beasts, which also lost their dominion, were granted a prolongation of life for a time and a season. 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

Daniel 3:75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81

R: Give glory and eternal praise to him!

52 [Dan 3:75] “Mountains and hills, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 53 [Dan 3:76] “Everything growing from the earth, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 54 [Dan 3:77] “You springs, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 55 [Dan 3:78] “Seas and rivers, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 56 [Dan 3:79] “You dolphins and all water creatures, bless the Lord, praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 57 [Dan 3:80] “All you birds of the air, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 58 [Dan 3:81] “All you beasts, wild and tame, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R)

GOSPEL

There will always be signs of the end of the world. God’s intervention signifies that this time is coming. He always works towards the fulfillment of His plan and promises to us. May we be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit so that we can contribute to the Lord’s Second Coming. Christians must pray and work for the fruition of the Kingdom of God.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.

Luke 21:29-33

29 Jesus told his disciples a parable. “Consider the fig tree and all the other trees. 30 When their buds burst open, you see for yourselves and know that summer is now near; 31 in the same way, when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near. 32 Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.”

Credits to: www.kerygmafamily.com

Daily Readings for November 26, 2015

1ST READING

Even though Daniel was innocent of any crime, the king had no choice because other officials stood by their accusations. The king was an honorable man when he called on Daniel’s God to save him from the lions. And indeed, God heard the king and saved Daniel.

Daniel 6:12-28

12 Some men rushed into the upper chamber of Daniel’s home and found him praying and pleading before his God. 13 Then they went to remind the king about the prohibition: “Did you not decree, O king, that no one is to address a petition to god or man for thirty days, except to you, O king; otherwise he shall be cast into a den of lions?” The king answered them, “The decree is absolute, irrevocable under the Mede and Persian law.” 14 To this they replied, “Daniel, the Jewish exile, has paid no attention to you, O king, or to the decree you issued; three times a day he offers his prayer.” 15 The king was deeply grieved at this news and he made up his mind to save Daniel; he worked till sunset to rescue him. 16 But these men insisted. They said “Keep in mind, O king, that under the Mede and Persian law every royal prohibition or decree is irrevocable.” 17 So the king ordered Daniel to be brought and cast into the lions’ den. To Daniel he said, “May your God, whom you serve so constantly, save you.” 18 To forestall any tampering, the king sealed with his own ring and the rings of the lords the stone that had been brought to block the opening of the den. 19 Then the king returned to his palace for the night; he refused to eat and he dismissed the entertainers. Since sleep was impossible for him, 20 the king rose very early the next morning and hastened to the lions’ den. 21 As he drew near, he cried out to Daniel sorrowfully, “O Daniel, servant of the living God, has the God whom you serve so constantly been able to save you from the lions?” 22 Daniel answered the king: “O king, live forever! 23 My God has sent his angel and closed the lions’ mouths so that they have not hurt me. For I have been found innocent before him; neither to you have I done any harm, O king!” 24 This gave the king great joy. At his order Daniel was removed from the den, unhurt because he trusted in his God. 25 The king then ordered the men who had accused Daniel, along with their children and their wives, to be cast into the lions’ den. Before they reached the bottom of the den, the lions overpowered them and crushed all their bones. 26 Then King Darius wrote to the nations and peoples of every language, wherever they dwell on the earth: “All peace to you! 27 I decree that throughout my royal domain the God of Daniel is to be reverenced and feared: “For he isthe living God, enduring forever; his Kingdom shall not be destroyed, and his dominion shall be without end. 28 He is a deliverer and savior, working signs and wonders in heaven and on earth, and he delivered Daniel from the lions’ power.”

P S A L M

Daniel 3:68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74

R: Give glory and eternal praise to him.

45 [Dan 3:68] “Dew and rain, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 46 [Dan 3:69] “Frost and chill, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 47 [Dan 3:70] “Ice and snow, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 48 [Dan 3:71]“Nights and days, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 49 [Dan 3:72] “Light and darkness, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 50 [Dan 3:73] “Lightnings and clouds, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 51 [Dan 3:74] “Let the earth bless the Lord, praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus prophesied Jerusalem’s defeat by the Gentiles. He said that there will be suffering in the future for those who have faith in God and that this suffering will be great. The prophecy refers to the persecution of the early Church by the Roman Empire.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.

Luke 21:20-28

20 Jesus said to his disciples: “When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, know that its desolation is at hand. 21 Then those in Judea must flee to the mountains. Let those within the city escape from it, and let those in the countryside not enter the city, 22 for these days are the time of punishment when all the Scriptures are fulfilled. 23 Woe to pregnant women and nursing mothers in those days, for a terrible calamity will come upon the earth and a wrathful judgment upon this people. 24 They will fall by the edge of the sword and be taken as captives to all the Gentiles; and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. 25 “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves. 26 People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.”

Credits to: www.kerygmafamily.com

Daily Readings for November 25, 2015

1ST READING

The king favored Daniel because of his power to interpret dreams. He served in a place of honor. Daniel was not afraid to speak the truth even though the message would disturb the king. This is a lesson for us to never compromise the Gospel. Failing to tell the truth will not help anyone. If someone needs to repent of his sins, then that is the message he needs to hear. Let us never water down the message of the Gospel.

Daniel 5:1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28

1 King Belshazzar gave a great banquet for a thousand of his lords, with whom he drank. 2 Under the influence of the wine, he ordered the gold and silver vessels which Nebuchadnezzar, his father, had taken from the temple in Jerusalem, to be brought in so that the king, his lords, his wives and his entertainers might drink from them. 3 When the gold and silver vessels taken from the house of God in Jerusalem had been brought in, and while the king, his lords, his wives and his entertainers were drinking 4 wine from them, they praised their gods of gold and silver, bronze and iron, wood and stone. 5 Suddenly, opposite the lampstand, the fingers of a human hand appeared, writing on the plaster of the wall in the king’s palace. When the king saw the wrist and hand that wrote, 6 his face blanched; his thoughts terrified him, his hip joints shook, and his knees knocked. 13 Then Daniel was brought into the presence of the king. The king asked him, “Are you the Daniel, the Jewish exile, whom my father, the king, brought from Judah? 14 I have heard that the Spirit of God is in you, that you possess brilliant knowledge and extraordinary wisdom. 16 I have heard that you can interpret dreams and solve difficulties; if you are able to read the writing and tell me what it means, you shall be clothed in purple, wear a gold collar about your neck, and be third in the government of the kingdom.” 17 Daniel answered the king: “You may keep your gifts, or give your presents to someone else; but the writing I will read for you, O king, and tell you what it means. 23 You have rebelled against the Lord of heaven. You had the vessels of his temple brought before you, so that you and your nobles, your wives and your entertainers, might drink wine from them; and you praised the gods of silver and gold, bronze and iron, wood and stone, that neither see nor hear nor have intelligence. But the God in whose hand is your life breath and the whole course of your life, you did not glorify. 24 By him were the wrist and hand sent, and the writing set down. 25 “This is the writing that was inscribed: MENE, TEKEL, and PERES. These words mean: 26 MENE, God has numbered your kingdom and put an end to it; 27 TEKEL, you have been weighed on the scales and found wanting; 28 PERES, your kingdom has been divided and given to the Medes and Persians.”

P S A L M

Daniel 3:62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67

R: Give glory and eternal praise to him.

39 [Dan 3:62] “Sun and moon, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 40 [Dan 3:63] “Stars of heaven, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 

41[Dan 3:64] “Every shower and dew, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 

42 [Dan 3:65] “All you winds, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 43 [Dan 3:66] “Fire and heat, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 44 [Dan 3:67] “Cold and chill, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus told His Apostles that they will be persecuted. He wanted them to choose whether to follow Him or not. We should always tell the truth, as truth alone that can set us free. To lie to someone is always a disservice. Creating false expectations or cultivating imperfect understanding of the Gospel and the will of God is never going to help bring the Gospel to those who have not heard it.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Remain faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.

Luke 21:12-19

12 Jesus said to the crowd: “They will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. 13 It will lead to your giving testimony. 14 Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, 15 for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. 16 You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. 17 You will be hated by all because of my name, 18 but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. 19 By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

Credits to: www.kerygmafamily.com

Daily Readings for November 24, 2015

1ST READING

The king bestowed Daniel with high honors after he interpreted his first dream. Like all kingdoms, King Nebuchadnezzar’s will rise and fall according to the prevailing balance of power. Everything we build in the world is doomed to pass away except for our relationships. We will carry these with us to eternity as they are the direct result of love.

Daniel 2:31-45

31 Daniel said to Nebuchadnezzar: “In your vision, O king, you saw a statue, very large and exceedingly bright, terrifying in  appearance as it stood before you. 32 The head of the statue was pure gold, its chest and arms were silver, its belly and thighs bronze, 33 the legs iron, its feet partly iron and partly tile. 34 While you looked at the statue, a stone which was hewn from a mountain without a hand being put to it, struck its iron and tile feet, breaking them in pieces. 35 The iron, tile, bronze, silver, and gold all crumbled at once, fine as the chaff on the threshing floor in summer, and the wind blew them away without leaving a trace. But the stone that struck the statue became a great mountain and filled the whole earth. 36 “This was the dream; the interpretation we shall also give in the king’s presence. 37 You, O king, are the king of kings; to you the God of heaven has given dominion and strength, power and glory; 38 men, wild beasts, and birds of the air, wherever they may dwell, he has handed over to you, making you ruler over them all; you are the head of gold. 39 Another kingdom shall take your place, inferior to yours, then a third kingdom, of bronze, which shall rule over the whole earth. 40 There shall be a fourth kingdom, strong as iron; it shall break in pieces and subdue all these others, just as iron breaks in pieces and crushes everything else. 41The feet and toes you saw, partly of potter’s tile and partly of iron, mean that it shall be a divided kingdom, but yet have some of the hardness of iron. As you saw the iron mixed with clay tile, 42 and the toes partly iron and partly tile, the kingdom shall be partly strong and partly fragile. 43 The iron mixed with clay tile means that they shall seal their alliances by intermarriage, but they shall not stay united, any more than iron mixes with clay. 44 In the lifetime of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed or delivered up to another people; rather, it shall break in pieces all these kingdoms and put an end to them, and it shall stand forever. 45 That is the meaning of the stone you saw hewn from the mountain without a hand being put to it, which broke in pieces the tile, iron, bronze, silver, and gold. The great God has revealed to the king what shall be in the future; this is exactly what you dreamed, and its meaning is sure.”

P S A L M

Daniel 3:57, 58, 59, 60, 61

R: Give glory and eternal praise to him.

34 [Dan 3:57] “Bless the Lord, all you works of the Lord, praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 35 [Dan 3:58] “Angels of the Lord, bless the Lord, praise and exalt him above all forever.” 36 [Dan 3:59] “You heavens, bless the Lord, praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 37 [Dan 3:60] “All you waters above the heavens, bless the Lord, praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R) 38 [Dan 3:61] All you hosts of the Lord, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” (R)

GOSPEL

Relationships are the only lasting things that we build in this life. This is the greatest challenge of discipleship — trusting that the time spent in building relationships with both friends and enemies is always time well spent. We will never know the effects of a short conversation today on the decisions of another person tomorrow.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Remain faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.

Luke 21:5-11

5 While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, 6 “All that you see here — the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.” 7 Then they asked him, “Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?” 8 He answered, “See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and ‘The time has come.’ Do not follow them! 9 When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end.” 10 Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.”

Credits to: www.kerygmafamily.com

Daily Readings for November 23, 2015

1ST READING

Daniel chose what he will and will not accept from the king. He wanted to be faithful to God and at the same time serve the king and his people. The peaceful relationship did not last. The king had disturbing dreams and Daniel’s interpretation of them displeased the king and turned him against Daniel. This is the nature of the truth — it disturbs those who do not live it.

Daniel 1:1-6, 8-20

1 In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Judah, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon came and laid siege to Jerusalem. 2 The Lord handed over to him Jehoiakim, king of Judah, and some of the vessels of the temple of God, he carried them off to the land of Shinar, and placed the vessels in the temple treasury of his god. 3 The king told Ashpenaz, his chief chamberlain, to bring in some of the children of Israel of royal blood and of the nobility, 4 young men without any defect, handsome, intelligent and wise, quick to learn, and prudent in judgment, such as could take their place in the king’s palace; they were to be taught the language and literature of the Chaldeans; 5 after three years’ training they were to enter the king’s service. The king allotted them a daily portion of food and wine from the royal table. 6 Among these were men of Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. 8 But Daniel was resolved not to defile himself with the king’s food or wine; so he begged the chief chamberlain to spare him this defilement. 9 Though God had given Daniel the favor and sympathy of the chief chamberlain, 10 he nevertheless said to Daniel, “I am afraid of my lord the king; it is he who allotted your food and drink. If he sees that you look wretched by comparison with the other young men of your age, you will endanger my life with the king.” 11 Then Daniel said to the steward whom the chief chamberlain had put in charge of Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, 12 “Please test your servants for ten days. Give us vegetables to eat and water to drink. 13 Then see how we look in comparison with the other young men who eat from the royal table, and treat your servants according to what you see.” 14 He acceded to this request, and tested them for ten days; 15 after ten days they looked healthier and better fed than any of the young men who ate from the royal table. 16 So the steward continued to take away the food and wine they were to receive, and gave them vegetables. 17 To these four young men God gave knowledge and proficiency in all literature and science, and to Daniel the understanding of all visions and dreams. 18 At the end of the time the king had specified for their preparation, the chief chamberlain brought them before Nebuchadnezzar. 19 When the king hadspoken with all of them, none was found equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah; and so they entered the king’s service. 20 In any question of wisdom or prudence, which the king put to them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his kingdom.

P S A L M

Daniel 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56

R: Glory and praise for ever!

29 [Dan 3:52] “Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of our fathers, praiseworthy and exalted above all forever; and blessed is your holy and glorious name, praiseworthy and exalted above all for all ages.” (R) 30 [Dan 3:53] “Blessed are you in the temple of your holy glory, praiseworthy and glorious above all forever.” (R) 31 [Dan 3:54] “Blessed are you on the throne of your kingdom, praiseworthy and exalted above all forever.” (R) 32 [Dan 3:55] “Blessed are you who look into the depths from your throne upon the cherubim, praiseworthy and exalted above all forever.” (R) 33 [Dan 3:56] “Blessed are you in the firmament of heaven, praiseworthy and glorious forever.” (R)

GOSPEL

How diligent are we in providing for the needs of the Church? According to the Canon Law, it is our responsibility to give for the upkeep of the Church, Her ministers and Her social programs. This is the way it has always been and always will be. It is also up to the Church to ensure that She administers Her wealth well and does not waste it on worthless projects. It is rare for parishes to have enough money to fund its projects and activities. That is why important decisions need to be made as to how funds are spent.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Stay awake! For you do not know when the Son of Man will come.

Luke 21:1-4

1 When Jesus looked up he saw some wealthy people putting their offerings into the treasury 2 and he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. 3 He said, “I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; 4 for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.”

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Daily Readings for November 22, 2015

Solemnity of Christ the King

1ST READING

We read another apocalyptic writing that embellishes and glorifies a religious figure. It is not necessarily an end-time image. The subtitle to this reading tells me that the primary message is that the sovereignty of the person spoken of in the text is eternal. We can assume that we are talking about God. Importantly, we are reminded that not only is God’s sovereignty assured but also that of His Kingdom to which we belong and for which we strive to serve.

Daniel 7:13-14

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 the one like a Son of man received dominion, glory, and kingship; all peoples, nations and languages 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 93:1, 1-2, 5

R: The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.

1 The Lord is king, in splendor robed; robed is the Lord and girt about with strength. (R) And he has made the world firm, not to be moved. 2 Your throne stands firm from of old; from everlasting you are, O Lord. (R) 5 Your decrees are worthy of trust indeed; holiness befits your house, O Lord, for length of days. (R)

SECOND READING 

The Church places this reading from the Book of Revelation with the First Reading from Daniel such that they are mutually interpretative. Are they speaking of the same reality? Probably not but their message is similar enough to enable us to combine their message. This text reminds us that we are called to unite ourselves with the One who has unending sovereignty.

Revelation 1:5-8

5 Jesus Christ is the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead and ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, 6 who has made us into a kingdom, priests for his God and Father, to him be glory and power forever and ever. Amen. 7 Behold, he is coming amid the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him. All the peoples of the earth will lament him. Yes. Amen. 8 “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “the one who is and who was and who is to come, the almighty.”

GOSPEL

Jesus does not claim an earthly kingdom for Himself. His authority is for the eternal Kingdom. This explains His lack of concern for earthly realities. What matters is that we get the eternal realities of faith in the right perspective and then the rest will follow in its own time. Jesus does have earthly authority, but this is not the focus of the Gospel as it is concerned with eternal life, not this passing life on earth.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the kingdom of our father David that is to come!

John 18:33-37

33 Pilate said to Jesus, “Are you the King of the Jews?” 34 Jesus answered, “Do you say this on your own or have others told you about me?” 35 Pilate answered, “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests handed you over to me. What have you done?” 36 Jesus answered, “My kingdom does not belong to this world. If my kingdom did belong to this world, my attendants would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not here.” 37 So Pilate said to him, “Then you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say I am a king. For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.”

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Daily Readings for November 21, 2015

Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

1ST READING

This prophecy in the Book of Zechariah looks forward to the coming of the Messiah. The coming of many different nations to Jerusalem will mark this time. It prophesies that the Messiah will usher in a new understanding of faith, that it will also be available to the Gentiles. Today we see the partial fulfillment of the prophecy. We wait for the time when all people will bow their knee at Jesus in His second coming. Let us make the Gospel known to as many people as possible.

Zechariah 2:14-17 (or 1 Maccabees 6:1-13)

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, and you shall know that the Lord of hosts has sent me to you. 16 The Lord will possess Judah as his portion of the holy land, and he will again choose Jerusalem. 17 Silence, all mankind, in the presence of the Lord! He stirs forth from his holy dwelling.

P S A L M

Luke 1:46-47, 48-49, 50-51, 52-53, 54-55 (or Psalm 9:2-3, 4, 6, 16, 19)

R: The Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.

46 “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, 47 my spirit rejoices in God my savior.” (R) 48 “For he has looked upon his lowly servant; from this day all generations will call me blessed: 49 the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.” (R) 50 “He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. 51 He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit.” (R) 52 “He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he has sent away empty.” (R) 54 He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for he has remembered his promise of mercy, 55 the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children forever.” (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus asserts that for faith to be true to itself, it must be lived out in our daily lives. Without this, Christians will be accused of hypocrisy. We must live out the demands of our faith to the fullest. This is done first in our relationships with others. No one is more or less important than someone else.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Matthew 12:46-50 (or Luke 20:27-40)

46 While Jesus was speaking to the crowds, his mother and his brothers appeared outside, wishing to speak with him. 47 Someone told him, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, asking to speak with you.” 48 But he said in reply to the one who told him, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” 49 And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. 50 For whoever does the will of my heavenly Father is my brother, and sister, and mother.”

Daily Readings for November 20, 2015

1ST READING

Judas and his followers have their moments of victory, but the Greeks will prevail due to their superior arms and numbers. We should not give up just because our mission is difficult and seems hopeless. There is always a reason behind God’s plans even if we do not know all of it. Let us trust that God knows what He is doing with us.

1 Maccabees 4:36-37, 52-59

36 Judas and his brothers said, “Now that our enemies have been crushed, let us go up to purify the sanctuary and rededicate it.” 37 So the whole army assembled, and went up to Mount Zion. 52 Early in the morning on the twenty-fifth day of the ninth month, that is, the month of Chislev, in the year one hundred and forty-eight, 53 they arose and offered sacrifice according to the law on the new altar of burnt offering that they had made. 54 On the anniversary of the day on which the Gentiles had defiled it, on that very day it was re-consecrated with songs, harps, flutes, and cymbals. 55 All the people prostrated themselves and adored and praised Heaven, who had given them success. 56 For eight days they celebrated the dedication of the altar and joyfully offered burnt offering and sacrifices of deliverance and praise. 57 They ornamented the facade of the temple with gold crowns and shields; they repaired the gates and the priests’ chambers and furnished them with doors. 58 There was great joy among the people now that the disgrace of the Gentiles was removed. 59 Then Judas and his brothers and the entire congregation of Israel decreed that the days of the dedication of the altar should be observed with joy and gladness on the anniversary every year for eight days, from the twenty-fifth day of the month Chislev.

P S A L M

1 Chronicles 29:10, 11, 11-12, 12

R: We praise your glorious name, O mighty God.

10 “Blessed may you be, O Lord, God of Israel our father, from eternity to eternity.” (R) 11 “Yours, O Lord, are grandeur and power, majesty, splendor, and glory. For all in heaven and on earth is yours.” (R) “Yours, O Lord, is the sovereignty; you are exalted as head over all. 12 “Riches and honor are from you.” (R) “You have dominion over all, In your hand are power and might; it is yours to give grandeur and strength to all.” (R)

GOSPEL

Doing the right thing always matters. Jesus drove away from the Temple those who turned this place of prayer and worship into a market place. There will always be someone who will question His authority in doing such a thing. As disciples of Jesus, we will meetpeople who will oppose us, sometimes silently, sometimes verbally and hopefully very rarely with actions and maybe even violence. Are we ready to follow Jesus’ calling?

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.

Luke 19:45-48

45 Jesus entered the temple area and proceeded to drive out those who were selling things, 46 saying to them, “It is written, My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves.” 47 And every day he was teaching in the temple area. The chief priests, the scribes, and the leaders of the people, meanwhile, were seeking to put him to death, 48 but they could find no way to accomplish their purpose because all the people were hanging on his words.

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Daily Readings for November 19, 2015

1ST READING

Many tried to escape the persecution by the Greeks and fled to the desert. Perhaps this is the origins of the Essene community that we read of in the Gospels and other early literature of the time of Christ. This ascetical community, responsible for the Dead Sea Scrolls, sought to recapture the true spirit of Judaism.

1 Maccabees 2:15-29

15 The officers of the king in charge of enforcing the apostasy came to the city of Modein to organize the sacrifices. 16 Many of Israel joined them, but Mattathias and his sons gathered in a group apart. 17 Then the officers of the king addressed Mattathias: “You are a leader, an honorable and great man in this city, supported by sons and kinsmen. 18 Come now, be the first to obey the king’s command, as all the Gentiles and the men of Judah and those who are left in Jerusalem have done. Then you and your sons shall be numbered among the King’s Friends, and shall be enriched with silver and gold and many gifts.” 19 But Mattathias answered in a loud voice: “Although all the Gentiles in the king’s realm obey him, so that each forsakes the religion of his fathers and consents to the king’s orders, 20 yet I and my sons and my kins will keep to the covenant of our fathers. 21 God forbid that we should forsake the law and the commandments. 22 We will not obey the words of the king nor depart from our religion in the slightest degree.” 23 As he finished saying these words, a certain Jew came forward in the sight of all to offer sacrifice on the altar in Modein according to the king’s order. 24 When Mattathias saw him, he was filled with zeal; his heart was moved and his just fury was aroused; he sprang forward and killed him upon the altar. 25 At the same time, he also killed the messenger of the king who was forcing them to sacrifice, and he tore down the altar. 26 Thus he showed his zeal for the law, just as Phinehas did with Zimri, son of Salu. 27 Then Mattathias went through the city shouting, “Let everyone who is zealous for the law and who stands by the covenant follow after me!” 28 Thereupon he fled to the mountains with his sons, leaving behind in the city all their possessions. 29 Many who sought to live according to righteousness and religious custom went out into the desert to settle there.

P S A L M

Psalm 50:1-2, 5-6, 14-15

R: To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

1 God the Lord has spoken and summoned the earth, from the rising of the sun to its setting. 2 From Zion, perfect in beauty, 1stGod shines forth. (R) 5 “Gather my faithful ones before me, those who have made a covenant with me by sacrifice.” 6 And the heavens proclaim his justice; for God himself is the judge. (R) 14 “Offer to God praise as your sacrifice and fulfill your vows to the Most High; 15 then call upon me in time of distress; I will rescue you, and you shall glorify me.” (R)

GOSPEL

Sometimes we seek false peace in our lives. We compromise on the truth of the Gospel and we allow compromises in our search for God’s will. The small concessions grow into larger ones and have a detrimental effect on how the Church proclaims of the Gospel. Let us fix our eyes on God’s Kingdom and never stray from its truth.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

Luke 19:41-44

41 As Jesus drew near Jerusalem, he saw the city and wept over it, 42 saying, “If this day you only knew what makes for peace — but now it is hidden from your eyes. 43 For the days are coming upon you when your enemies will raise a palisade against you; they will encircle you and hem you in on all sides. 44 They will smash you to the ground and your children within you, and they will not leave one stone upon another within you because you did not recognize the time of your visitation.”

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Daily Readings for November 18, 2015

1ST READING

Judas Maccabeus gave himself to his task 100 percent. He was not afraid to be seen working for what he believed to be true and right. We should pray for similar courage and stand for the values of the Gospel. Our secular age relegates religious realities to the periphery so that they have little or no effect on how society functions. We cannot allow this to happen if we want to protect the dignity of the human person.

2 Maccabees 7:1, 20-31

1 It happened that seven brothers with their mother were arrested and tortured with whips and scourges by the king, to force them to eat pork in violation of God’s law. 20 Most admirable and worthy of everlasting remembrance was the mother, who saw her seven sons perish in a single day, yet bore it courageously because of her hope in the Lord. 21 Filled with a noble spirit that stirred her womanly heart with manly courage, she exhorted each of them in the language of their ancestors with these words: 22 “I do not know how you came into existence in my womb; it was not I who gave you the breath of life, nor was it I who set in order the elements of which each of you is composed. 23 Therefore, since it is the Creator of the universe who shapes each man’s beginning, as he brings about the origin of everything, he, in his mercy, will give you back both breath and life, because you now disregard yourselves for the sake of his law.” 24 Antiochus, suspecting insult in her words, thought he was being ridiculed. As the youngest brother was still alive, the king appealed to him, not with mere words, but with promises on oath, to make him rich and happy if he would abandon his ancestral customs: he would make him his Friend and entrust him with high office. 25 When the youth paid no attention to him at all, the king appealed to the mother, urging her to advise her boy to save his life. 26 After he had urged her for a long time, she went through the motions of persuading her son. 27 In derision of the cruel tyrant, she leaned over close to her son and said in their  native language: “Son, have pity on me, who carried you in my womb for nine months, nursed you for three years, brought you up, educated and supported you to your present age. 28 I beg you, child, to look at the heavens and the earth and see all that is in them; then you will know that God did not make them out of existing things; and in the same way the human race came into existence. 29 Do not be afraid of this executioner, but be worthy of your brothers and accept death, so that in the time of mercy I may receive you again with them.” 30 She had scarcely finished speaking when the youth said: “What are you waiting for? I will not obey the king’s command. I obey the command of the law given to our forefathers through Moses. 31 But you, who have contrived every kind of affliction for the Hebrews, will not escape the hands of God. ”

P S A L M

Psalm 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15

R: Lord, when your glory appears, my joy will be full.

1 Hear, O Lord, a just suit; attend to my outcry; hearken to my prayer from lips without deceit. (R) 5 My steps have been steadfast in your paths, my feet have not faltered. 6 I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God; incline your ear to me; hear my word. (R) 8 Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings. 15 But I in justice shall behold your face; on waking, I shall be content in your presence. (R)

GOSPEL

The Lord has entrusted us with talents. How we use them is completely up to us. But we must one day give an account of how we used them. We will judge ourselves when we stand before God and witness His justice in its purest forms. We will clearly see what we could have done if only we had entrusted to God all, that He gave us under the grace of the Holy Spirit.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

I chose you from the world, to go and bear fruit that will last, says the Lord.

Luke 19:11-28

11 While people were listening to Jesus speak, he proceeded to tell a parable because he was near Jerusalem and they thought that the Kingdom of God would appear there immediately. 12 So he said, “A nobleman went off to a distant country to obtain the kingship for himself and then to return. 13 He called ten of his servants and gave them ten gold coins and told them, ‘Engage in trade with these until I return.’ 14 His fellow citizens, however, despised him and sent a delegation after him to announce, ‘We do not want this man to be our king.’ 15 But when he returned after obtaining the kingship, he had the servants called, to whom he had given the money, to learn what they had gained by trading. 16 The first came forward and said, ‘Sir, your gold coin has earned ten additional ones.’ 17 He replied, ‘Well done, good servant! You have been faithful in this very small matter; take chargeof ten cities.’ 18 Then the second came and reported, ‘Your gold coin, sir, has earned five more.’ 19 And to this servant too he said, ‘You, take charge of five cities.’ 20 Then the other servant came and said, ‘Sir, here is your gold coin; I kept it stored away in a handkerchief, 21 for I was afraid of you, because you are a demanding man; you take up what you did not lay down and you harvest what you did not plant.’ 22 He said to him, ‘With your own words I shall condemn you, you wicked servant. You knew I was a demanding man, taking up what I did not lay down and harvesting what I did not plant; 23 why did you not put my money in a bank? Then on my return I would have collected it with interest.’ 24 And to those standing by he said, ‘Take the gold coin from him and give it to the servant who has ten.’ 25 But they said to him, ‘Sir, he has ten gold coins.’ 26 He replied, ‘I tell you, to everyone who has, more will be given, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 27 Now as for those enemies of mine who did not want me as their king, bring them here and slay them before me.’” 28 After he had said this, he proceeded on his journey up to Jerusalem.

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