Daily Readings for December 31, 2016

1ST READING

 

John reminds us that the end times have arrived with the proclamation of the Gospel by Jesus. We should work as hard to bring about the Kingdom of God. Hard work and perseverance through the generations are needed to prepare the world for the second coming of Jesus. Are you up to the task?

 

1 John 2:18-21

18 Children, it is the last hour; and just as you heard that the antichrist was coming, so now many antichrists have appeared. Thus we know this is the last hour. 19 They went out from us, but they were not really of our number; if they had been, they would have remained with us. Their desertion shows that none of them was of our number. 20 But you have the anointing that comes from the Holy One, and you all have knowledge. 21 I write to you not because you do not know the truth but because you do, and because every lie is alien to the truth.

 

P S A L M

 

Psalm 96:1-2, 11-12, 13

R: Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

1 Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all you lands. 2 Sing to the Lord; bless his name; announce his salvation, day after day. (R) 11 Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice; let the sea and what fills it resound; 12 let the plains be joyful and all that is in them! Then shall all the trees of the forest exult 13 before the Lord. (R) The Lord comes, he comes to rule the earth. He shall rule the world with justice and the peoples with his constancy. (R)

 

GOSPEL

 

Let us reflect on the first chapter of John’s Gospel. It is a beautiful description of God’s love and commitment to us. It is more fruitful if you understand the original text in Greek. This is why so many scholars toil hard at languages in order to read the Scriptures in their original form. It is worth the effort.

 

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

The Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us. To those who accepted him he gave power to become the children of God.

 

John 1:1-18

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came to be through him, and without him nothing came to be. What came to be 4through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race; 5 the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. 6 A man named John was sent from God. 7 He came for testimony, to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He was not the light, but came to testify to the light. 9 The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world came to be through him, but the world did not know him. 11 He came to what was his own, but his own people did not accept him. 12 But to those who did accept him he gave power to become children of God, to those who believe in his name, 13 who were born not by natural generation nor by human choice nor by a man’s decision but of God. 14 And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father’s only-begotten Son, full of grace and truth. 15 John testified to him and cried out, saying, “This was he of whom I said, ‘The one who is coming after me ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.’ ” 16 From his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace, 17 because while the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God. The only-begotten Son, God, who is at the Father’s side, has revealed him.

Daily Readings for December 30, 2016

Feast of Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph

1ST READING

Let us reflect on the role of our families. Our parents and siblings are not perfect. Even though we have difficulties in our relationship with them, still there are a lot to be thankful for our family. Let us ask God to protect the institution of the family from the erosion of faulty legislation that does not recognize the role that families play in the lives of individuals and the society.

Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14

2 God sets a father in honor over his children; a mother’s authority he confirms over her sons. 3 Whoever honors his father atones for sins; and preserves himself from them. 4 When he prays, he is heard; he stores up riches who reveres his mother. 5 Whoever honors his father is gladdened by children, and when he prays, is heard. 6 Whoever reveres his father will live a long life; he who obeys his father brings comfort to his mother. 12 My son, take care of your father when he is old; grieve him not as long as he lives. 13 Even if his mind fail, be considerate to him; revile him not all the days of his life; 14 kindness to a father will not be forgotten, firmly planted against the debt of your sins — a house raised in justice to you.

P S A L M

Psalm 128:1-2, 3, 4-5

R: Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.

1 Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in his ways! 2 For you shall eat the fruit of your handiwork; blessed shall you be, and favored. (R) 3 Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the recesses of your home; your children like olive plants around your table. (R) 4 Behold, thus is the man blessed who fears the Lord. 5 The Lord bless you from Zion: may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life. (R)

2ND READING

We fail to protect the dignity of the family to our own peril. The Roman Empire fell not because of superior armies destroying it but because of internal immorality, many of which caused the breakdown of the nuclear family. We can see similar signs today in Western countries where about half of marriages end in divorce.

Colossians 3:12-21

12 Brothers and sisters: Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if one has a grievance against another; as the Lord has forgiven you, so must you also do. 14 And over all these put on love, that is, the bond of perfection. 15 And let the peace of Christ control your hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another, singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. 18 Wives, be subordinate to your husbands, as is proper in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives, and avoid any bitterness toward them. 20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not provoke your children, so they may not become discouraged.

GOSPEL

Children whose parents have separated or who have been abused by their parents or by other people need our prayers for their healing. May the Church minister the healing sacraments and the love of God to them. Let us be agents of healing to those who have been hurt in spite of their innocence.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Let the peace of Christ control your hearts; let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.

Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23

13 When the magi had departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.” 14 Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt. 15 He stayed there until the death of Herod, that what the Lord had said through the prophet might be fulfilled, Out of Egypt I called my son. 19 When Herod had died, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt 20 and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child’s life are dead.” 21 He rose, took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was ruling over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go back there. And because he had been warned in a dream, he departed for the region of Galilee. 23 He went and dwelt in a town called Nazareth, so that what had been spoken through the prophets might be fulfilled, He shall be called a Nazorean. 

Daily Readings for December 29, 2016

1ST READING

Jesus did not abandon the commandments. He fulfilled them. As Christians, we are called to fulfill the Law. It is not going to be easy to follow the footsteps of Jesus. He was condemned and persecuted because of His attitude towards and treatment of the commandments. We are challenged to take the spirit of Jesus as we follow Him.

1 John 2:3-11

3 Beloved: The way we may be sure that we know Jesus is to keep his commandments. 4 Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoever keeps his word, the love of God is truly perfected in him. This is the way we may know that we are in union with him: 6 whoever claims to abide in him ought to walk just as he walked. 7 Beloved, I am writing no new commandment to you but an old commandment that you had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word that you have heard. 8 And yet I do write a new commandment to you, which holds true in him and among you, for the darkness is passing away, and the true light is already shining. 9 Whoever says he is in the light, yet hates his brother, is still in the darkness. 10 Whoever loves his brother remains in the light, and there is nothing in him to cause a fall. 11 Whoever hates his brother is in darkness; he walks in darkness and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

P S A L M

Psalm 96:1-2, 2-3, 5-6

R: Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!

1 Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all you lands. 2 Sing to the Lord; bless his name. (R) Announce his salvation, day after day. 3 Tell his glory among the nations; among all peoples, his wondrous deeds. (R) 5 The Lord made the heavens. 6 Splendor and majesty go before him; praise and grandeur are in his sanctuary. (R)

GOSPEL

Simeon has waited and prayed for a long time to see the Messiah. One can sense relief in his prayer: “Now you can let your servant go in peace …” God always leads and guides us in His ways. As we build the Kingdom of God, His blessings are already being poured out on us.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

A light of revelation to the Gentiles and glory for your people Israel.

Luke 2:22-35

22 When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, the parents of Jesus took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, 23 just as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord, 24 and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord. 25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. 27 He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, 28 he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying: 29 “Lord, now let your servant go in peace, your word has been fulfilled: 30 my own eyes have seen the salvation, 31 which you prepared in the sight of every people, 32 a light to revel you to the nations and the glory of your people Israel.” 33 The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; 34 and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted 35 (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

Daily Readings for December 28, 2016

Feast of Holy Innocents, martyrs

1ST READING

Remembering this horrible event always causes me to shudder, just as recalling past genocides, and the silent holocaust of abortions today. These portray the darker side of our humanity — the things that we are capable of doing to one another when we fail to recognize the implicit human dignity of every person.

1 John 1:5-2:2

5 Beloved: This is the message that we have heard from Jesus Christ and proclaim to you: God is light, and in him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we say, “We have fellowship with him,” while we continue to walk in darkness, we lie and do not act in truth. 7 But if we walk in the light as he is in the light, then we have fellowship with one another, and the Blood of his Son Jesus cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say, “We are without sin,” we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we acknowledge our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from every wrongdoing. 10 If we say, “We have not sinned,” we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. 2:1 My children, I am writing this to you so that you may not commit sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous one. 2 He is expiation for our sins, and not for our sins only but for those of the whole world.

P S A L M

Psalm 124:2-3, 4-5, 7-8

R: Our soul has been rescued like a bird from the fowler’s snare. 

2 Had not the Lord been with us — when men rose up against us, 3 then would they have swallowed us alive. When their fury was inflamed against us. (R) 4 Then would the waters have overwhelmed us; the torrent would have swept over us; 5 over us then would have swept the raging waters. (R) 7 Broken was the snare, and we were freed. 8 Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth. (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus, Mary and Joseph flee to Egypt to escape the murderous intent of Herod. He ordered all first-born male children to be killed for fear that one of them may become a king in the future. This is what people do when they do not know the love of God and do not have faith. Faith is a way of knowing Jesus and a way of life infused with the truth and the values of the Gospel.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

We praise you, O God, we acclaim you as Lord; the white robed army of martyrs praise you.

Matthew 2:13-18

13 When the magi had departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.” 14 Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt. 15 He stayed there until the death of Herod, that what the Lord had said through the prophet might be fulfilled, Out of Egypt I called my son. 16 When Herod realized that he had been deceived by the magi, he became furious. He ordered the massacre of all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had ascertained from the magi. 17 Then was fulfilled what had been said through Jeremiah the prophet: 18 A voice was heard in Ramah, sobbing and loud lamentation; Rachel weeping for her children, and she would not be consoled, since they were no more.

Daily Readings for December 27, 2016

Feast of St. John, Apostle, Evangelist

1ST READING

The First Letter of John is about the mysterious nature of God’s love for us. It is mysterious because we have allowed sin into our lives and we find it difficult to enter into the self-giving nature of God’s love for us. There is always an element of self-interest in the way we love God and others. Let us purify our motives and walk with Jesus.

1 John 1:1-4

1 Beloved: What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we looked upon and touched with our hands concerns the Word of life — 2 for the life was made visible; we have seen it and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life that was with the Father and was made visible to us — 3 what we have seen and heard we proclaim now to you, so that you too may have fellowship with us; for our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4 We are writing this so that our joy may be complete.

P S A L M

Psalm 97:1-2, 5-6, 11-12

R: Rejoice in the Lord, you just!

1 The Lord is king; let the earth rejoice; let the many isles be glad. 2 Clouds and darkness are around him, justice and judgment are the foundation of his throne. (R) 5 The mountains melt like wax before the Lord, before the Lord of all the earth. 6 The heavens proclaim his justice, and all peoples see his glory. (R) 11 Light dawns for the just; and gladness, for the upright of heart. 12 Be glad in the Lord, you just, and give thanks to his holy name. (R)

GOSPEL

The empty tomb is one of the primary pieces of evidence we have about the resurrection of Jesus. The tomb where His body laid was empty a few days later. This gives us a sure foundation for what we believe. May we have the grace to build our faith on credible truths that form a solid basis for the Gospel.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

John 20:1, 2-8

1 On the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene 2 ran and went to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and told them, “They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we do not know where they put him.” 3 So Peter and the other disciple went out and came to the tomb. 4 They both ran, but the other disciple ran faster than Peter and arrived at the tomb first; 5 he bent down and saw the burial cloths there, but did not go in. 6 When Simon Peter arrived after him, he went into the tomb and saw the burial cloths there, 7 and the cloth that had covered his head, not with the burial cloths but rolled up in a separate place. 8 Then the other disciple also went in, the one who had arrived at the tomb first, and he saw and believed.

Daily Readings for December 26, 2016

Feast of St. Stephen, protomartyr

1ST READING

St. Stephen’s death is modeled on that of Jesus. Some of the things Stephen says are similar to Jesus’ words on the cross. As we reflect on Stephen’s willingness to lay down his life, we pray for a similar fervor in us. Let us love the Lord and give our lives in the service of the Gospel.

Acts 6:8-10; 7: 54-59

8 Stephen, filled with grace and power, was working great wonders and signs among the people. 9 Certain members of the so-called Synagogue of Freedmen, Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and people from Cilicia and Asia, came forward and debated with Stephen, 10 but they could not withstand the wisdom and the spirit with which he spoke. 7:54 When they heard this, they were infuriated, and they ground their teeth at him. 55 But he, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked up intently to heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God, 56 and he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” 57 But they cried out in a loud voice, covered their ears, and rushed upon him together. 58 They threw him out of the city, and began to stone him. The witnesses laid down their cloaks at the feet of a young man named Saul. 59 As they were stoning  Stephen, he called out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”

P S A L M

Psalm 31:3-4, 6, 8, 16, 17

R: Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.

2 [3] Be my rock of refuge, a stronghold to give me safety. 3[4] You are my rock and my fortress; for your name’s sake you will lead and guide me. (R) 5 [6] Into your hands I commend my spirit; you will redeem me, O Lord, O faithful God. 7 [8] I will rejoice and be glad of your mercy. (R) 15 [16] Rescue me from the clutches of my enemies and my persecutors. 16 [17] Let your face shine upon your servant; save me in your kindness. (R)

GOSPEL

We must guard our hearts and minds from false doctrines. There are many of these around today just as there were in Jesus’ time. Let us take their threat seriously as they can be subtle and deadly. As we reflect on the commitment of St. Stephen, let us be aware that some of us may be called to make the supreme sacrifice.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord: the Lord is God and has given us light.

Matthew 10:17-22

17 Jesus said to his disciples: “Beware of men, for they will hand you over to courts and scourge you in their synagogues, 18 and you will be led before governors and kings for my sake as a witness before them and the pagans. 19 When they hand you over, do not worry  about how you are to speak or what you are to say. You will be given at that moment what you are to say. 20 For it will not be you who speak but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. 21 Brother will hand over brother to death, and the father his child; children will rise up against parents and have them put to death. 22 You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved.”

Daily Readings for December 25, 2016

Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord

1ST READING

There is no greater gift than the Gospel that we can give or receive. Let us open our mind and understand more deeply the truth of the Gospel so we can explain and share it with others. What we have freely received, let us freely give to many people. This Christmas, may we be generous in sharing our blessings with those who have less in life.

Isaiah 52:7-10

7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings glad tidings, announcing peace, bearing good news, announcing salvation, and saying to Zion, “Your God is King!” 8 Hark! Your sentinels raise a cry, together they shout for joy, for they see directly, before their eyes, the Lord restoring Zion. 9 Break out together in song, O ruins of Jerusalem! For the Lord comforts his people, he redeems Jerusalem. 10 The Lord has bared his holy arm in the sight of all the nations; all the ends of the earth will behold the salvation of our God.

P S A L M

Psalm 98:1, 2-3, 3-4, 5-6

R: All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God.

1 Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done wondrous deeds; his right hand has won victory for him, his holy arm. (R) 2 The Lord has made his salvation known: in the sight of the nations he has revealed his justice. 3 He has remembered his kindness and his faithfulness toward the house of Israel. (R) All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. 4 Sing joyfully to the Lord, all you lands; break into song; sing praise. (R) 5 Sing praise to the Lord with the harp, with the harp and melodious song. 6 With trumpets and the sound of the horn sing joyfully before the King, the Lord. (R)

2ND READING

Let us give to Jesus the glory that He deserves. Let us make our lives a living sacrifice of praise so that His name will be glorified and carried to the ends of the earth. Jesus’ name is all-powerful — it actually means the One who saves, so let us take every opportunity to proclaim it to the world.

Hebrews 1:1-6

1 Brothers and sisters: In times past, God spoke in partial and various ways to our ancestors through the prophets; 2 in these last days, he has spoken to us through theSon, whom he made heir of all things and through whom he created the universe, 3 who is the refulgence of his glory, the very imprint of his being, and who sustains all things by his mighty word. When he had accomplished purification from sins, he took his seat at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4 as far superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. 5 For to which of the angels did God ever say: You are my son; this day I have begotten you? Or again: I will be a father to him, and he shall be a son to me? 6 And again, when he leads the firstborn into the world, he says: Let all the angels of God worship him.

GOSPEL

This is a beautiful hymn, the content of which is impossible to exhaust even if we meditate on it day and night. Just like God’s love that is  inexhaustible, always carrying mercy with it. Let us open our hearts to His love and allow Him to continue the work of transformation He has begun in us. Let us come into His presence, singing His praises with joy in our hearts.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

A holy day has dawned upon us. Come, you nations, and adore the Lord. For today a great light has come upon the earth.

John 1:1-18

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came to be through him, and without him nothing came to be. What came to be 4 through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race; 5 the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. 6 A man named John was sent from God. 7 He came for testimony, to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. 8 He was not the light, but came to testify to the light. 9 The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world came to be through him, but the world did not know him. 11 He came to what was his own, but his own people did not accept him. 12 But to those who did accept him he gave power to become children of God, to those who believe in his name, 13 who were born not by natural generation nor by human choice nor by a man’s decision but of God. 14 And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father’s only Son, full of grace and truth. 15 John testified to him and cried out, saying, “This was he of whom I said, ‘The one who is coming after me ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.’” 16 From his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace, 17 because while the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God. The only Son, God, who is at the Father’s side, has revealed him.

Daily Readings for December 24, 2016

1ST READING

David’s hands are covered in blood. He has been a mighty warrior for the Lord and won countless victories in the battlefield. It is time for David to rest and leave the building of God’s house to his successor. It is a wise move of God — to ask a warrior to settle down and supervise the building of a temple. Men of action are rarely good administrators.

2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16

1 When King David was settled in his palace, and the Lord had given him rest from his enemies on every side, 2 he said to Nathan the prophet, “Here I am living in a house of cedar, while the ark of God dwells in a tent!” 3 Nathan answered the king, “Go, do whatever you have in mind, for the Lord is with you.” 4 But that night the Lord spoke to Nathan and said: 5 “Go, tell my servant David, ‘Thus says the Lord: Should you build me a house to dwell in? 8 “It was I who took you from the pasture and from the care of the flock to be commander of my people Israel. 9 I have been with you wherever you went, and I have destroyed all your enemies before you. And I will make you famous like the great ones of the earth. 10 I will fix a place for my people Israel; I will plant them so that they may dwell in their place without further disturbance. Neither shall the wicked continue to afflict them as they did of old, 11 since the time I first appointed judges over my people Israel. I will give you rest from all your enemies. The Lord also reveals to you that he will establish a house for you. 12 And when your time comes and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your heir after you, sprung from your loins, and I will make his Kingdom firm. 14 I will be a father to him, and he shall be a son to me. 16 Your house and your Kingdom shall endure forever before me; your throne shall stand firm forever.’ ”

P S A L M

Psalm 89:2-3, 4-5, 27, 29

R: For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

1 [2] The favors of the Lord I will sing forever; through all generations my mouth shall proclaim your faithfulness. 2 [3] For you have said, “My kindness is established forever”; in heaven you have confirmed your faithfulness. (R) 3 [4] “I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant: 4 [5] Forever will I confirm your posterity and establish your throne for all generations.” (R) 26 [27] “He shall say of me, ‘You are my father, my God, the rock, my savior.’ 28 [29] Forever I will maintain my kindness toward him, and my covenant with him stands firm.” (R)

GOSPEL

The Song of Zechariah is about the ministry of both John the Baptist and Jesus. One of the central planks of these ministries is the call to minister to and care for the poor. The Church today calls us to have a “preferential option for the poor” in our ministries and communities. This is an essential part of the Gospel.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

O Radiant Dawn, splendor of eternal light, sun of justice: come and shine on those who dwell in darkness and in the shadow of death.

Luke 1:67-79

67 Zechariah his father, filled with the Holy Spirit, prophesied, saying: 68 “Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; for he has come to his people and set them free. 69 He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant David. 70 Through his prophets he promised of old 71 that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all who hate us. 72 He promised to show mercy to our fathers and to remember his holy covenant. 73 This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham: 74 to set us free from the hand of our enemies, free to worship him without fear 75 holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life. 76 You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, 77 to give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins. 78 In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, 79 to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.”

Daily Readings for December 23, 2016

1ST READING

Malachi speaks of a time of purification. We need to be purified from sin and its effects. Purification is not a pleasant experience, but we should welcome the work of the Spirit. Let us embrace penance and works of mercy. The Church encourages us to fast and repent for our sins. Good works are also a great way to undo the effects of sin in our lives.

Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24

1 Thus says the Lord God: Lo, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me; and suddenly there will come to the temple the Lord whom you seek, and the messenger of the covenant whom you desire. Yes, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. 2 But who will endure the day of his coming? And who can stand when he appears? For he is like the refiner’s fire, or like the fuller’s lye. 3 He will sit refining and purifying silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi, refining them like gold or like silver that they may offer due sacrifice to the Lord. 4 Then the sacrifice of Judah and Jerusalem will please the Lord, as in days of old, as in years gone by. 23 Lo, I will send you Elijah, the prophet, before the day of the Lord comes, the great and terrible day, 24 to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers, lest I come and strike the land with doom.

P S A L M

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

R: Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.

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. (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) 10 All the paths of the Lord are kindness and constancy toward those who keep his covenant and his decrees. 14 The friendship of the Lord is with those who fear him, and his covenant, for their instruction. (R)

GOSPEL

Let us savor the miracle stories that surround the birth of Jesus. This will put us in the right frame of mind to embrace the wonders and magnificence of the gift of Jesus as we celebrate His birthday in a couple of days. The birth of God as a man is beyond our comprehension. God spoils us with His love. He pours out His gifts on those He loves.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

O King of all nations and keystone of the Church: come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!

Luke 1:57-66

57 When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. 58 Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. 59 When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, 60 but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.” 61 But they answered her, “There is no one among your relatives who has this name.” 62 So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. 63 He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. 64 Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. 65 Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. 66 All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, “What, then, will this child be?” For surely the hand of the Lord was with him.

Daily Readings for December 22, 2016

1ST READING

Hannah gave her only child, Samuel, to the service of the Temple. This shows how grateful she is to God for the gift of her child. She was once barren but the Lord heard her cry and gave her a miracle. We should give our lives to the service of God’s Kingdom.

1 Samuel 1:24-28

24 In those days, Hannah brought Samuel with her, along with a three-year- old bull, an ephah of flour, and a skin of wine, and presented him at the temple of the Lord in Shiloh. 25 After the boy’s father had sacrificed the young bull, Hannah, his mother, approached Eli 26 and said: “Pardon, my lord! As you live, my lord, I am the woman who stood near you here, praying to the Lord. 27 I prayed for this child, and the Lord granted my request. 28 Now I, in turn, give him to the Lord; as long as he lives, he shall be dedicated to the Lord.” She left Samuel there.

P S A L M

1 Samuel 2:1, 4-5, 6-7, 8

R: My heart exults in the Lord, my Savior.

1 “My heart exults in the Lord, my horn is exalted in my God. I have swallowed up my enemies; I rejoice in my victory.” (R) 4 “The bows of the mighty are broken, while the tottering gird on strength. 5 The well-fed hire themselves out for bread, while the hungry batten on spoil. The barren wife bears seven sons, while the mother of many languishes.” (R) 6 “The Lord puts to death and gives life; he casts down to the nether world; he raises up again. 7 The Lord makes poor and makes rich, he humbles, he also exalts.” (R) 8 “He raises the needy from the dust; from the dung heap he lifts up the poor, To seat them with nobles and make a glorious throne their heritage.” (R)

GOSPEL

As we reflect on the Magnificat, let us go deeper into the true meaning of our salvation. We often take the Word of God for granted and assume that we understand what it means. We cannot exhaust the meaning of the Scriptures if we remain open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. God makes His Word ever new in our lives, drawing us more deeply into the Gospel and its mission.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

O King of all nations and keystone of the Church: come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!

Luke 1:46-56

46 Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; 47 my spirit rejoices in God my savior. 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. 50 He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. 51 He has shown the strength of his arm, and has scattered the proud in their conceit. 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. 54 He has come to help of his servant Israel, for he remembered his promise of mercy, 55 the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.” 56 Mary remained with Elizabeth about three months and then returned to her home.

Daily Readings for December 21, 2016

1ST READING

The Song of Songs is truly a love song. St. Bernard of Clairvaux wrote many sermons about this beautiful piece of Scripture. He expounded on the mystery and depth of God’s love. Let us reflect on this and deepen our understanding of God’s love.

Song of Songs 2:8-14 (or Zephaniah 3:14-18)

8 Hark! My lover — here he comes springing across the mountains, leaping across the hills. 9 My lover is like a gazelle or a young stag. Here he stands behind our wall, gazing through the windows, peering through the lattices. 10 My lover speaks. He says to me, “Arise, my beloved, my dove, my beautiful one, and come! 11 For see, the winter is past, the rains are over and gone. 12 The flowers appear on the earth, the time of pruning the vines has come, and the song of the dove is heard in our land. 13 The fig tree puts forth its figs, and the vines, in bloom, give forth fragrance. Arise, my beloved, my beautiful one, and come! 14 “O my dove in the clefts of the rock, in the secret recesses of the cliff, let me see you, let me hear your voice, for your voice is sweet, and you are lovely.”

P S A L M

Psalm 33:2-3, 11-12, 20-21

R: Exult, you just, in the Lord! Sing to him a new song.

2 Give thanks to the Lord on the harp; with the ten-stringed lyre chant his praises. 3 Sing to him a new song; pluck the strings skillfully, with shouts of gladness. (R) 11 But the plan of the Lord stands forever; the design of his heart, through all generations. 12 Blessed the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he has chosen for his own inheritance. (R) 20 Our soul waits for the Lord, who is our help and our shield, 21 for in him our hearts rejoice; in his holy name we trust. (R)

GOSPEL

In spite of her pregnancy, Mary travels to help her cousin, Elizabeth, who was also pregnant. This shows Mary’s love and generosity. She was the right choice to be the Mother of God. Let us reflect on her selflessness and follow her example in our service for the Kingdom of God.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law: come to save us, Lord our God.

Luke 1:39-45

39 Mary set out in those days and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, 40 where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, 42 cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. 43 And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.”

Daily Readings for December 20, 2016

1ST READING

Isaiah prophesies that the Assyrians will not take Jerusalem. This is the underlying meaning of this prophecy. We Christians also see in this the prophecy of the birth of the Messiah to a young woman. It is never easy to know the meaning of prophecies but the tradition of the Church is unanimous on this one.

Isaiah 7:10-14

10 The Lord spoke to Ahaz: 11 “Ask for a sign from the Lord, your God; let it be deep as the nether world, or high as the sky!” 12 But Ahaz answered, “I will not ask! I will not tempt the Lord!” 13 Then Isaiah said: “Listen, O house of David! Is it not enough for you to weary men, must you also weary my God? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall name him Immanuel.

P S A L M

Psalm 24:1-2, 3-4, 5-6

R: Let the Lord enter; he is the king of glory.

1 The Lord’s are the earth and its fullness; the world and those who dwell in it. 2 For he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers. (R) 3 Who can ascend the mountain of the Lord? Or who may stand in his holy place? 4 He whose hands are sinless, whose heart is clean, who desires not what is vain. (R) 5 He shall receive a blessing from the Lord, a reward from God his savior. 6 Such is the race that seeks for him, that seeks the face of the God of Jacob. (R)

GOSPEL

The prophecy of Isaiah points to Mary 700 years later. Did God have this in mind when He inspired Isaiah? What matters is that God chose Mary to be the mother of His Son, Jesus, and she obeyed her calling. For this we give thanks to her and to God, and continue to pray that we follow her example of faith and trust.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

O Key of David, opening the gates of God’s eternal Kingdom: come and free the prisoners of darkness!

Luke 1:26-38

26 In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And coming to her, he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” 29 But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. 30 Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, 33 and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his Kingdom there will be no end.” 34 But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” 35 And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. 36 And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; 37 for nothing will be impossible for God.” 38 Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.

Daily Readings for December 19, 2016

1ST READING

The stories of God bringing life out of a barren womb remind us of His focus on life. In Jesus, the Father brings about our salvation — freedom from the powers of sin and death — another act of life. We are preparing to welcome Jesus into the world on His birthday. This is a celebration of life in more ways than one – the life of the Incarnate Son of God and also the gift of new life through Him.

Judges 13:2-7, 24-25

2 There was a certain man from Zorah, of the clan of the Danites, whose name was Manoah. His wife was barren and had borne no children. 3 An angel of the Lord appeared to the woman and said to her, “Though you are barren and have had no children, yet you will conceive and bear a son. 4 Now, then, be careful to take no wine or strong drink and to eat nothing unclean. 5 As for the son you will conceive and bear, no razor shall touch his head, for this boy is to be consecrated to God from the womb. It is he who will begin the deliverance of Israel from the power of the Philistines.” 6 The woman went and told her husband, “A man of God came to me; he had the appearance of an angel of God, terrible indeed. I did not ask him where he came from, nor did he tell me his name. 7 But he said to me, ‘You will be with child and will bear a son. So take neither wine nor strong drink, and eat nothing unclean. For the boy shall be consecrated to God from the womb, until the day of his death.’” 24 The woman bore a son and named him Samson. The boy grew up and the Lord blessed him; 25 the Spirit of the Lord first stirred him.

P S A L M

Psalm 71:3-4, 5-6, 16-17

R: My mouth shall be filled with your praise, and I will sing your glory!

3 Be my rock of refuge, a stronghold to give me safety, for you are my rock and my fortress. 4 O my God, rescue me from the hand of the wicked. (R) 5 For you are my hope, O Lord; my trust, O God, from my youth. 6 On you I depend from birth; from my mother’s womb you are my strength. (R) 16 I will treat of the mighty works of the Lord; O God, I will tell of your singular justice. 17 O God, you have taught me from my youth, and till the present I proclaim your wondrous deeds. (R)

GOSPEL

  

Elizabeth is past her childbearing years and yet she conceives a son, John the Baptist. God can do whatever He wants. Let us reflect on God’s power and the truth that nothing can get in the way of the fulfillment of His will. We don’t have to fear the devil, thanks to the victory of God. Let us be grateful for all that God has given us.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

O Root of Jesse’s stem, sign of God’s love for all his people: come to save us without delay!

Luke 1:5-25

5 In the days of Herod, King of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah of the priestly division of Abijah; his wife was from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6 Both were righteous in the eyes of God, observing all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly. 7 But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren and both were advanced in years. 8 Once when he was serving as priest in his division’s turn before God, 9 according to the practice of the priestly service, he was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord to burn incense. 10 Then, when the whole assembly of the people was praying outside at the hour of the incense offering, 11 the angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right of the altar of incense. 12 Zechariah was troubled by what he saw, and fear came upon him. 13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, because your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John. 14 And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He will drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s womb, 16 and he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. 17 He will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah to turn the hearts of fathers toward children and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous, to prepare a people fit for the Lord.” 18 Then Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” 19 And the angel said to him in reply, “I am Gabriel, who stand before God. I was sent to speak to you and to announce to you this good news. 20 But now you will be speechless and unable to talk until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled at their proper time.” 21 Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah and were amazed that he stayed so long in the sanctuary. 22 But when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the sanctuary. He was gesturing to them but remained mute. 23 Then, when his days of ministry were completed, he went home. 24 After this time his wife Elizabeth conceived, and she went into seclusion for five months, saying, 25 “So has the Lord done for me at a time when he has seen fit to take away my disgrace before others.”

Daily Readings for December 18, 2016

Fourth Sunday of Advent

1ST READING

When the Lord asks us to do something, we should do it. King Ahaz does not want to ask God for a sign that He will deliver Jerusalem from its siege. God chooses one for him and we now have today’s text. This has been interpreted to be a prophecy of the birth of the Messiah. However, God can work in mysterious ways through the words and actions of those who do His will.

Isaiah 7:10-14

10 The Lord spoke to Ahaz, saying: 11 “Ask for a sign from the Lord, your God; let it be deep as the netherworld, or high as the sky!” 12 But Ahaz answered, “I will not ask! I will not tempt the Lord!” 13 Then Isaiah said: Listen, O house of David! Is it not enough for you to weary people, must you also weary my God? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.

P S A L M

Psalm 24:1-2, 3-4, 5-6

R: Let the Lord enter, he is king of glory.

1 The Lord’s are the earth and its fullness; the world and those who dwell in it. 2 For he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers. (R) 3 Who can ascend the mountain of the Lord? Or who may stand in his holy place? 4 One whose hands are sinless, whose heart is clean, who desires not what is vain. (R) 5 He shall receive a blessing from the Lord, a reward from God his savior. 6 Such is the race that seeks for him, that seeks the face of the God of Jacob. (R)     

2ND READING

Paul wants to use the Roman community as a base for his evangelization work in Europe. Paul claims to be an Apostle, but of a different pedigree from others. He was called somewhat late and did not have the privilege of learning the Gospel at the feet of Jesus like the others did. However, Paul is ready to accept Peter as the leader of the Church but he is not afraid to challenge Peter.

Romans 1:1-7

1 Paul, a slave of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God, 2 which he promised previously through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, 3 the gospel about his Son, descended from David according to the flesh, 4 but established as Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness through resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord. 5 Through him we have received the grace of apostleship, to bring about the obedience of faith, for the sake of his name, among all the Gentiles, 6 among whom are you also, who are called to belong to Jesus Christ; 7 to all the beloved of God in Rome, called to be holy. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

GOSPEL

Joseph is a forgotten Scriptural figure. He is around for the first few years of Jesus’ life but disappears from the scene. He shows deep faith and trust in God’s calling and responds to the situation he finds himself in. He could have excused himself legally and gone off on his own but he is reluctant to leave Mary, even if it means he will experience hardship and suffering.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

The virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel.

Matthew 1:18-24

18 This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. 19 Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. 20 Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. 21 She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.” 24 When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.