Daily Readings for February 28, 2017

1ST READING

Holiness is not only about avoiding sin. More importantly, it is about loving God and our neighbor. Evil is the absence of good; however, the opposite is not true. Evil cannot exist in and of itself as it is chaos and destruction. But good seeks to bring order and life.

Sirach 35:1-12

1 To keep the law is a great oblation, and he who observes the commandments sacrifices a peace offering. 2 In works of charity one offers fine flour, and when he gives alms he presents his sacrifice of praise. 3 To refrain from evil pleases the Lord, and to avoid injustice is an atonement. 4 Appear not before the Lord empty-handed, for all that you offer is in fulfillment of the precepts. 5 The just one’s offering enriches the altar and rises as a sweet odor before the Most High. 6 The just one’s sacrifice is most pleasing, nor will it ever be forgotten. 7 In a generous spirit pay homage to the Lord, be not sparing of freewill gifts. 8 With each contribution show a cheerful countenance, and pay your tithes in a spirit of joy. 9 Give to the Most High as he has given to you, generously, according to your means. 10 For the Lord is one who always repays, and he will give back to you sevenfold. 11 But offer no bribes, these he does not accept! Trust not in sacrifice of the fruits of extortion, 12 for he is a God of justice, who knows no favorites.

P S A L M

Psalm 50:5-6, 7-8, 14, 23

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

5 “Gather my faithful ones before me, those who have made a covenant with me by sacrifice.” 6 And for the heavens proclaim his justice; for God himself is the judge. (R) 7 “Hear, my people, and I will speak; Israel, I will testify against you; God, your God, am I. 8 Not for your sacrifices do I rebuke you, for your burnt offerings are before me always. (R) 14 “Offer to God praise as your sacrifice and fulfill your vows to the Most High. 23 He that offers praise as a sacrifice glorifies me; and to him that goes the right way I will show the salvation of God.” (R)

GOSPEL

We seldom act out of pure altruism. We always look for some reward no matter how small. This is one of the challenges of discipleship. Let us pray for the grace to overcome our selfishness and act out of genuine concern for others. If we do this, then others will also look out for our interest.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Mark 10:28-31

28 Peter began to say to Jesus, “We have given up everything and followed you.” 29 Jesus said, “Amen, I say to you, there is no one who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands for my sake and for the sake of the Gospel 30 who will not receive a hundred times more now in this present age: houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and eternal life in the age to come. 31 But many that are first will be last, and the last will be first.”

Daily Readings for February 27, 2017

1ST READING

Jesus’ message of universal love dates back to the commandment to love our neighbor. We find the seeds of this truth in the New Testament within the heart of the Old Testament. This challenges us to obey God’s call to love. When we are hardpressed by circumstances or people, do we choose to love or hate?

Leviticus 19:1-2, 17-18

1 The Lord said to Moses, 2 “Speak to the whole Israelite community and tell them: Be holy, for I, the Lord your God, am holy. 17 “You shall not bear hatred for your brother or sister in your heart. Though you may have to reprove your fellow citizen, do not incur sin because of him. 18 Take no revenge and cherish no grudge against any of your people. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.”

P S A L M

Psalm 103:1-2, 3-4, 8, 10, 12-13

R: The Lord is kind and merciful.

1 Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all my being, bless his holy name. 2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. (R)3 He pardons all your iniquities; he heals all your ills. 4 He redeems your life from destruction, he crowns you with kindness and compassion. (R)8 Merciful and gracious is the Lord, slow to anger and abounding in kindness. 10 Not according to our sins does he deal with us, nor does he requite us according to our crimes. (R)12 As far as the east is from the west, so far has he put our transgressions from us. 13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him. (R)

2ND READING

St. Paul reminds us that we are temples of the Holy Spirit. Do our words, thoughts and deeds reflect this, or do we need further conversion to God? Jesus forgave those who crucified Him. Can you love as deeply as He did?

1 Corinthians 3:16-23

16 Brothers and sisters: Do you not know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 17 If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person; for the temple of God, which you are, is holy. 18 Let no one deceive himself. If any one among you considers himself wise in this age, let him become a fool so as to become wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in the eyes of God, for it is written: God catches the wise in their own ruses, 20 and again: The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain. 21 So let no one boast about human beings, for everything belongs to you, 22 Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or the present or the future: all belong to you, 23 and you to Christ, and Christ to God.

GOSPEL

Jesus’ approach to the Law is very different from that of the Pharisees. He wants the Law to draw us into a closer relationship with Him and not just be a series of “dos” and “don’ts.” This invites us into a relationship based on love. What sort of relationship with God do you want to have – one based on love or on fear and judgment?

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Whoever keeps the word of Christ, the love of God is truly perfected in him.

Matthew 5:38-48

38 Jesus said to his disciples: “You have heard that it was said, an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. 39 But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on your right cheek, turn the other one as well. 40 If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic, hand over your cloak as well. 41 Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go for two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow. 43 “You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. 44 But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same? 48 So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

Daily Readings for February 26, 2017

1ST READING

This is just a simple image but is effective in explaining a particular truth — that God will never forget us. Even if a mother forgets her child, God will always remember us. He holds us in the palm of His hands.

Isaiah 49:14-15

14 Zion said, “The Lord has forsaken me; my Lord has forgotten me.” 15 Can a mother forget her infant, be without tenderness for the child of her womb? Even should she forget, I will never forget you.

P S A L M

Psalm 62:2-3, 6-7, 8-9

R: Rest in God alone, my soul.

1 [2] Only in God is my soul at rest; from him comes my salvation. 2 [3] He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be disturbed at all. (R) 5 [6] Only in God be at rest, my soul, for from him comes my hope. 6 [7] He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be disturbed. (R) 7 [8] With God is my safety and my glory, he is the rock of my strength; my refuge is in God. 8 [9] Trust in him at all times, O my people! Pour out your hearts before him. (R)

2ND READING

God knows what is in our hearts and He knows our motivations. Let us purify our reasons for doing good works so that these will become holy and fruitful. Let us keep in mind that the motives for our actions are important. We must be vigilant and act with the best motive – love and obedience to God’s will. 

1 Corinthians 4:1-5

1 Brothers and sisters: Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Now it is of course required of stewards that they be found trustworthy. 3 It does not concern me in the least that I be judged by you or any human tribunal; I do not even pass judgment on myself; 4 I am not conscious of anything against me, but I do not thereby stand acquitted; the one who judges me is the Lord. 5 Therefore, do not make any judgment before the appointed time, until the Lord comes, for he will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will manifest the motives of our hearts, and then everyone will receive praise from God.

GOSPEL

Trusting in the providence of God is an essential aspect of discipleship. We must trust Him to provide what we need to do His will. We cannot do it on our own strength. We need faith and humility to receive His grace and to accomplish His will for us.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

The word of God is living and effective; discerning reflections and thoughts of the heart.

Matthew 6:24-34

24 Jesus said to his disciples: “No one can serve two masters. He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they? 27 Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span? 28 Why are you anxious about clothes? Learn from the way the wild flowers grow. They do not work or spin. 29 But I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was clothed like one of them. 30 If God so clothes the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith? 31 So do not worry and say, ‘What are we to eat?’ or ‘What are we to drink?’ or ‘What are we to wear?’ 32 All these things the pagans seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides. 34 Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil.”

Daily Readings for February 25, 2017

1ST READING

Humanity is God’s crowning work of creation. He has created us to share in His life. We are the only ones called to share in the divine life – no other creation has received that call. We have the responsibility to respond to it. How are you living the divine life as a witness to the world of possible intimacy with our Creator?

Sirach 17:1-15

1 God from the earth created man, and in his own image he made him. 2 He makes man return to earth again, 3 and endows man with a strength of his own. Limited days of life he gives him, with power over all things else on earth. 4 He puts the fear of him in all flesh, and gives him rule over beasts and birds. 5 He created for them counsel, and tongues and eyes and ears, and an inventive heart, and filled them with the discipline of an understanding heart. 6 He created in them knowledge of the spirit; with wisdom he fills their heart; good and evil he shows them. 7 He put the fear of himself upon their hearts, and showed them his mighty works, 8 that they might glory in the wonders of his deeds and praise his holy name. 9 He has set before them knowledge, a law of life as their inheritance; 10 an everlasting covenant he has made with them, his justice and his judgments he has revealed to them. 11 His majestic glory their eyes beheld, his glorious voice their ears heard. 12 He says to them, “Avoid all evil”; each of them he gives precepts about his fellow men. 13 Their ways are ever known to him, they cannot be hidden from his eyes. 14 Over every nation he places a ruler, but God’s own portion is Israel. 15 All their actions are clear as the sun to him, his eyes are ever upon their ways.

P S A L M

Psalm 103:13-14, 15-16, 17-18

R: The Lord’s kindness is everlasting to those who fear him.

13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him, 14 for he knows how we are formed; he remembers that we are dust. (R) 15 Man’s days are like those of grass; like a flower of the field he blooms; 16 the wind sweeps over him and he is gone, and his place knows him no more. (R) 17 But the kindness of the Lord is from eternity to eternity toward those who fear him, and his justice toward children’s children 18 among those who keep his covenant. (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus emphasizes the role of humility in the Christian life. Humility is the hardest aspect of discipleship to live out. Without humility, it is impossible to live a virtuous life – we will struggle to combat the lies and temptations of the devil on our own strength. Let us humble ourselves and accept the grace that God offers us for our salvation.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Mark 10:13-16

13 People were bringing children to Jesus that he might touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 When Jesus saw this he became indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the Kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.” 16 Then he embraced the children and blessed them, placing his hands on them.

Daily Readings for February 24, 2017

1ST READING

Thomas Aquinas teaches us that friendship endures for eternity. Our friendships will be sanctified and blessed infinitely when we meet in heaven. This is why it is important to test our friendships. You might regret investing a lot in someone in this life only to find that he did not make it to heaven. We should choose wisely the people we become friends with.

Sirach 6:5-17

5 A kind mouth multiplies friends and appeases enemies, and gracious lips prompt friendly greetings. 6 Let your acquaintances be many, but one in a thousand your confidant. 7 When you gain a friend, first test him, and be not too ready to trust him. 8 For one sort of friend is a friend when it suits him, but he will not be with you in time of distress. 9 Another is a friend who becomes an enemy, and tells of the quarrel to your shame. 10 Another is a friend, a boon companion, who will not be with you when sorrow comes. 11 When things go well, he is your other self, and lords it over your servants; 12 but if you are brought low, he turns against you and avoids meeting you. 13 Keep away from your enemies; be on your guard with your friends. 14 A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; he who finds one finds a treasure. 15 A faithful friend is beyond price, no sum can balance his worth. 16 A faithful friend is a life-saving remedy, such as he who fears God finds; 17 for he who fears God behaves accordingly, and his friend will be like himself.

P S A L M

Psalm 119:12, 16, 18, 27, 34, 35

R: Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.

12 Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes. (R) 16 In your statutes I will delight; I will not forget your words. (R) 18 Open my eyes, that I may consider the wonders of your law. (R) 27 Make me understand the way of your precepts, and I will meditate on your wondrous deeds. (R) 34 Give me discernment that I may observe your law and keep it with all my heart. (R) 35 Lead me in the path of your commands, for in it I delight. (R)

GOSPEL

Marriage is a sacrament that is integral to the building of human society. If family relationships are unreliable, relationships in society will be unstable. This will make it very difficult to uphold a society. Marriage is one of the targets of the devil. Let us protect the sanctity and institution of marriage from destruction.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Mark 10:1-12

1 Jesus came into the district of Judea and across the Jordan. Again crowds gathered around him and, as was his custom, he again taught them. 2 The Pharisees approached and asked, “Is it lawful for a husband to divorce his wife?” They were testing him. 3 He said to them in reply, “What did Moses command you?” 4 They replied, “Moses permitted a husband to write a bill of divorce and dismiss her.” 5 But Jesus told them, “Because of the hardness of your hearts he wrote you this commandment. 6 But from the beginning of creation, God made them male and female. 7 For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, 8 and the two shall become one flesh. So they are no longer two but one flesh. 9 Therefore what God has joined together, no human being must separate.” 10 In the house the disciples again questioned Jesus about this. 11 He said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her; 12 and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”

Daily Readings for February 23, 2017

1ST READING

Today’s reading from the Book of Sirach reminds us that we need the grace of God to overcome sin. Let us learn well the lessons from the Renaissance Age when the mind and heart of humanity was drawn away from the Creator. We cannot live as disciples on our own strength. We need God’s grace for our salvation.

Sirach 5:1-10

1 Rely not on your wealth; say not: “I have the power.” 2 Rely not on your strength in following the desires of your heart. 3 Say not: “Who can prevail against me?” or, “Who will subdue me for my deeds?” for God will surely exact the punishment. 4 Say not: “I have sinned, yet what has befallen me?” for the Most High bides his time. 5 Of forgiveness be not overconfident, adding sin upon sin. 6 Say not: “Great is his mercy; my many sins he will forgive.” 7 For mercy and anger alike are with him; upon the wicked alights his wrath. 8 Delay not your conversion to the Lord, put it not off from day to day. 9 For suddenly his wrath flames forth; at the time of vengeance, you will be destroyed. 10 Rely not upon deceitful wrath, for it will be no help on the day of wrath.

P S A L M

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

R: Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

1 Blessed the man who follows not the counsel of the wicked nor walks in the way of sinners, nor sits in the company of the insolent, 2 but delights in the law of the Lord and meditates on his law day and night. (R) 3 He is like a tree planted near running water that yields its fruit in due season, and whose leaves never fade. Whatever he does, prospers. (R) 4 Not so the wicked, not so; they are like chaff which the wind drives away. 6 For the Lord watches over the way of the just, but the way of the wicked vanishes. (R)

GOSPEL

Causing others to sin is worse than other personal sins. Jesus warns that we must respect the weaknesses of others no matter what these may be. Never let others be tempted and fall into sin because of you. Instead, pray that God gives them the strength to avoid sin and live in His grace.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Receive the word of God, not as the word of men, but as it truly is, the word of God.

Mark 9:41-50

41 Jesus said to his disciples: “Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ, amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward. 42 “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were put around his neck and he were thrown into the sea. 43 If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed than with two hands to go into Gehenna, into the unquenchable fire. [44] 44 45 And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life crippled than with two feet to be thrown into Gehenna. [46] 46 47 And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. Better for you to enter into the Kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into Gehenna, 48 where their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched. 49 “Everyone will be salted with fire. 50 Salt is good, but if salt becomes insipid, with what will you restore its flavor? Keep salt in yourselves and you will have peace with one another.”

Daily Readings for February 22, 2017

Feast of the Chair of St. Peter, Apostle

1ST READING

The Pope leads and unifies the Catholic Church. As pontiff, his responsibilities are greater than the perks that people associate with his position. Let us pray daily for the Pope as he discerns God’s will for the Church and the world.

1 Peter 5:1-4

1 Beloved: I exhort the presbyters among you, as a fellow presbyter and witness to the sufferings of Christ and one who has a share in the glory to be revealed. 2 Tend the flock of God in your midst, overseeing not by constraint but willingly, as God would have it, not for shameful profit but eagerly. 3 Do not lord it over those assigned to you, but be examples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd is revealed, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

P S A L M

Psalm 23:1-3, 4, 5, 6

R: The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 In verdant pastures he gives me repose. Beside restful waters he leads me; 3 he refreshes my soul. (R) 4 Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side with your rod and your staff that give me courage. (R) 5 You spread the table before me in the sight of my foes; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. (R) 6 Only goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord for years to come. (R)

GOSPEL

In today’s Gospel, Peter was anointed as the first pope. This role was passed on as a tradition and practice of the Church. The papacy is important in uniting the faithful. Any group or society will splinter without the good governance of a leader.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church; the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.

Matthew 16:13-19

13 When Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” 14 They replied,“Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17 Jesus said to him in reply, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. 18 And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. 19 I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

Daily Readings for February 21, 2017

1ST READING

We are called to listen intently to the Word of God. It is always a challenge to distinguish God’s voice from all of the other voices in the world. We must listen well and find the path to true fulfillment.

Sirach 2:1-11

1 My son, when you come to serve the Lord, stand in justice and fear, prepare yourself for trials. 2 Be sincere of heart and steadfast, incline your ear and receive the word of understanding, undisturbed in time of adversity. 3 Wait on God, with patience, cling to him, forsake him not; thus will you be wise in all your ways. 4 Accept whatever befalls you, when sorrowful, be steadfast, and in crushing misfortune be patient; 5 for in fire gold and silver are tested, and worthy people in the crucible of humiliation. 6 Trust God and God will help you; trust in him, and he will direct your way; keep his fear and grow old therein. 7 You who fear the Lord, wait for his mercy, turn not away lest you fall. 8 You who fear the Lord, trust him, and your reward will not be lost. 9 You who fear the Lord, hope for good things, for lasting joy and mercy. You who fear the Lord, love him and your hearts will be enlightened. 10 Study the generations long past and understand; has anyone hoped in the Lord and been disappointed? Has anyone persevered in his commandments and been forsaken? Has anyone called upon him and been rebuffed? 11 Compassionate and merciful is the Lord; he forgives sins, he saves in time of trouble and he is a protector to all who seek him in truth.

P S A L M

Psalm 37:3-4, 18-19, 27-28, 39-40

R: Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.

3 Trust in the Lord and do good, that you may dwell in the land and be fed in security. 4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will grant you your heart’s requests. (R) 18 The Lord watches over the lives of the wholehearted; their inheritance lasts forever. 19 They are not put to shame in an evil time; in days of famine they have plenty. (R) 27 Turn from evil and do good, that you may abide forever; 28 for the Lord loves what is right, and forsakes not his faithful ones. (R) 39 The salvation of the just is from the Lord; he is their refuge in time of distress. 40 And the Lord helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him. (R) 

GOSPEL

Greatness comes from obeying God. Through obedience we will have the opportunity to change the world and make a difference. Let us open our mind and heart to the will of God so that we can transform our life and our society.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

May I never boast except in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world.

Mark 9:30-37

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

Daily Readings for February 20, 2017

1ST READING

Today’s reading reminds us that the wisdom of God surpasses that of men. But there are people who still reject God’s wisdom in favor of the wisdom of men. We need to grow in wisdom by experience but we should never disobey God’s commandments.

Sirach 1:1-8

1 All wisdom comes from the Lord and with him it remains forever, and is before all time. 2 The sand of the seashore, the drops of rain, the days of eternity: who can number these? 3 Heaven’s height, earth’s breadth, the depths of the abyss: who can explore these? 4 Before all things else wisdom was created; and prudent understanding, from eternity. The word of God on high is the fountain of wisdom and her ways are everlasting. 5 To whom has wisdom’s root been revealed? Who knows her subtleties? To whom has the discipline of wisdom been revealed? And who has understood the multiplicity of her ways? 6 There is but one, wise and truly awe-inspiring, seated upon his throne: There is but one, Most High all-powerful creator-king and truly awe-inspiring one, seated upon his throne and he is the God of dominion. 7 It is the Lord; he created her, has seen her through the Holy Spirit, has seen her and taken note of her. 8 He has poured her forth upon all his works, upon every living thing according to his bounty; he has lavished her upon his friends.

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)

GOSPEL

Prayer enables us to tap into the power of God. Without prayer, we will never grow in faith and we will miss opportunities to deepen our  relationship with God. Prayer unites us with Him just as conversation does for our human relationships.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Mark 9:14-29

14 As Jesus came down from the mountain with Peter, James, John and approached the other disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and scribes arguing with them. 15 Immediately on seeing him, the whole crowd was utterly amazed. They ran up to him and greeted him. 16 He asked them, “What are you arguing about with them?” 17 Someone from the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I have brought to you my son possessed by a mute spirit. 18 Wherever it seizes him, it throws him down; he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive it out, but they were unable to do so.” 19 He said to them in reply, “O faithless generation, how long will I be with you? How long will I endure you? Bring him to me.” 20 They brought the boy to him. And when he saw him, the spirit immediately threw the boy into convulsions. As he fell to the ground, he began to roll around and foam at the mouth. 21 Then he questioned his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” He replied, “Since childhood. 22 It has often thrown him into fire and into water to kill him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” 23 Jesus said to him, “‘If you can!’ Everything is possible to one who has faith.” 24 Then the boy’s father cried out, “I do believe, help my unbelief!” 25 Jesus, on seeing a crowd rapidly gathering, rebuked the unclean spirit and said to it, “Mute and deaf spirit, I command you: come out of him and never enter him again!” 26 Shouting and throwing the boy into convulsions, it came out. He became like a corpse, which caused many to say, “He is dead!” 27 But Jesus took him by the hand, raised him, and he stood up. 28 When he entered the house, his disciples asked him in private, “Why could we not drive the spirit out?” 29 He said to them, “This kind can only come out through prayer.”

Daily Readings for February 19, 2017

1ST READING

Jesus’ message of universal love dates back to the commandment to love our neighbor. We find the seeds of this truth in the New Testament within the heart of the Old Testament. This challenges us to obey God’s call to love. When we are hardpressed by circumstances or people, do we choose to love or hate?

Leviticus 19:1-2, 17-18

1 The Lord said to Moses, 2 “Speak to the whole Israelite community and tell them: Be holy, for I, the Lord your God, am holy. 17 “You shall not bear hatred for your brother or sister in your heart. Though you may have to reprove your fellow citizen, do not incur sin because of him. 18 Take no revenge and cherish no grudge against any of your people. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.”

P S A L M

Psalm 103:1-2, 3-4, 8, 10, 12-13

R: The Lord is kind and merciful.

1 Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all my being, bless his holy name. 2 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. (R)3 He pardons all your iniquities; he heals all your ills. 4 He redeems your life from destruction, he crowns you with kindness and compassion. (R)8 Merciful and gracious is the Lord, slow to anger and abounding in kindness. 10 Not according to our sins does he deal with us, nor does he requite us according to our crimes. (R)12 As far as the east is from the west, so far has he put our transgressions from us. 13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him. (R)

2ND READING

St. Paul reminds us that we are temples of the Holy Spirit. Do our words, thoughts and deeds reflect this, or do we need further conversion to God? Jesus forgave those who crucified Him. Can you love as deeply as He did?

1 Corinthians 3:16-23

16 Brothers and sisters: Do you not know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 17 If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person; for the temple of God, which you are, is holy. 18 Let no one deceive himself. If any one among you considers himself wise in this age, let him become a fool so as to become wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in the eyes of God, for it is written: God catches the wise in their own ruses, 20 and again: The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain. 21 So let no one boast about human beings, for everything belongs to you, 22 Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or the present or the future: all belong to you, 23 and you to Christ, and Christ to God.

GOSPEL

Jesus’ approach to the Law is very different from that of the Pharisees. He wants the Law to draw us into a closer relationship with Him and not just be a series of “dos” and “don’ts.” This invites us into a relationship based on love. What sort of relationship with God do you want to have – one based on love or on fear and judgment?

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Whoever keeps the word of Christ, the love of God is truly perfected in him.

Matthew 5:38-48

38 Jesus said to his disciples: “You have heard that it was said, an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. 39 But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on your right cheek, turn the other one as well. 40 If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic, hand over your cloak as well. 41 Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go for two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow. 43 “You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. 44 But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same? 48 So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

Daily Readings for February 18, 2017

1ST READING

Today’s reading celebrates the faith of the fathers of humanity. Through them we see what it means to follow God. They were obedient to their covenants with God. As God continues to reveal Himself, this commitment becomes more personal and moves the individual to choose a relationship with Him.

Hebrews 11:1-7

1 Brothers and sisters: Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen. 2 Because of it the ancients were well attested. 3 By faith we understand that the universe was ordered by the word of God, so that what is visible came into being through the invisible. 4 By faith Abel offered to God a sacrifice greater than Cain’s. Through this he was attested to be righteous, God bearing witness to his gifts, and through this, though dead, he still speaks. 5 By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was found no more because God had taken him. Before he was taken up, he was attested to have pleased God. 6 But without faith it is impossible to please him, for anyone who approaches God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. 7 By faith Noah, warned about what was not yet seen, with reverence built an ark for the salvation of his household. Through this he condemned the world and inherited the righteousness that comes through faith.

P S A L M

Psalm 145:2-3, 4-5, 10-11

R: I will praise your name forever, Lord.

2 Every day will I bless you, and I will praise your name forever and ever. 3 Great is the Lord and highly to be praised; his greatness is unsearchable. (R) 4 Generation after generation praises your works and proclaims your might. 5 They speak of the splendor of your glorious majesty and tell of your wondrous works. (R) 10 Let all your works give you thanks, O Lord, and let your faithful ones bless you. 11 Let them discourse of the glory of your Kingdom and speak of your might. (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus is transfigured on the mountaintop with Moses and Elijah. They symbolize the Law and the Prophets. Jesus is the culmination of both the Law and the Prophets. Through Him we see both the juridical and prophetic heritage of our faith. United with Jesus, Moses and Elijah are available to us through faith. We have in full what God offers us, if only we humbly ask for it.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

The heavens were opened and the voice of the Father thundered: This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.

Mark 9:2-13

2 Jesus took Peter, James, and John and led them up a high mountain apart by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, 3 and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no fuller on earth could bleach them. 4 Then Elijah appeared to them along with Moses, and they were conversing with  Jesus. 5 Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here! Let us make three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 6 He hardly knew what to say, they were so terrified. 7 Then a cloud came, casting a shadow over them; then from the cloud came a voice, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.” 8 Suddenly, looking around, the disciples no longer saw anyone but Jesus alone with them. 9 As they were coming down from the mountain, he charged them not to relate what they had seen to anyone, except when the Son of Man had risen from the dead. 10 So they kept the matter to themselves, questioning what rising from the dead meant. 11 Then they asked him, “Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” 12 He told them, “Elijah will indeed come first and restore all things, yet how is it written regarding the Son of Man that he must suffer greatly and be treated with contempt? 13 But I tell you that Elijah has come and they did to him whatever they pleased, as it is written of him.”

Daily Readings for February 17, 2017

1ST READING

Why do people speak different languages? This could have been a question that worried people 3,000 years ago and so the redactors of the Scriptures have given us a story to explain the different languages. Linguists today will explain of how languages evolved. This teaches us something about human nature and its predilection for sin.

Genesis 11:1-9

1 The whole world spoke the same language, using the same words. 2 While the people were migrating in the east, they came upon a valley in the land of Shinar and settled there. 3 They said to one another, “Come, let us mold bricks and harden them with fire.” They used bricks for stone, and bitumen for mortar. 4 Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city and a tower with its top in the sky, and so make a name for ourselves; otherwise we shall be scattered all over the earth.” 5 The Lord came down to see the city and the tower that they had built. 6 Then the Lord said: “If now, while they are one people, all speaking the same language, they have started to do this, nothing will later stop them from doing whatever they presume to do. 7 Let us then go down and there confuse their language, so that one will not understand what another says.” 8 Thus the Lord scattered them from there all over the earth, and they stopped building the city. 9 That is why it was called Babel, because there the Lord confused the speech of all the world. It was from that place that he scattered them all over the earth.

P S A L M

Psalm 33:10-11, 12-13, 14-15

R: Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.

10 The Lord brings to nought the plans of nations; he foils the designs of peoples. 11 But the plan of the Lord stands forever; the design of his heart, through all generations. (R) 12 Blessed the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he has chosen for his own inheritance. 13 From heaven the Lord looks down; he sees all mankind. (R) 14 From his fixed throne he beholds all who dwell on the earth, 15 He who fashioned the heart of each, he who knows all their works. (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus teaches us that a true disciple denies himself and embraces the cross. Suffering will be an integral part of the experience of a Christian. It is difficult to follow Jesus faithfully and an “easy” discipleship is unlikely to be true and will have little effect in a person’s life.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

I call you my friends, says the Lord, for I have made known to you all that the Father has told me.

Mark 8:34-9:1

34 Jesus summoned the crowd with his disciples and said to them, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. 35 For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and that of the Gospel will save it. 36 What profit is there for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? 37 What could one give in exchange for his life? 38 Whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this faithless and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.” 9:1 He also said to them, “Amen, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see that the Kingdom of God has come in power .”

Daily Readings for February 16, 2017

1ST READING

God enters into a new covenant with mankind when He commanded Noah to be fruitful and multiply. God committed to never destroy creation and used a rainbow to seal His promise. Our life is governed by the covenants that God has made with us through the ages. These covenants free us to discover our true humanity and allow us to receive God’s blessings.

Genesis 9:1-13

1 God blessed Noah and his sons and said to them: “Be fertile and multiply and fill the earth. 2 Dread fear of you shall come upon all the animals of the earth and all the birds of the air, upon all the creatures that move about on the ground and all the fishes of the sea; into your power they are delivered. 3 Every creature that is alive shall be yours to eat; I give them all to you as I did the green plants. 4 Only flesh with its lifeblood still in it you shall not eat. 5 For your own lifeblood, too, I will demand an accounting: from every animal I will demand it, and from man in regard to his fellow man I will demand an accounting for human life. 6 If anyone sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for in the image of God has man been made. 7 Be fertile, then, and multiply; abound on earth and subdue it.” 8 God said to Noah and to his sons with him: 9 “See, I am now establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you 10 and with every living creature that was with you: all the birds, and the various tame and wild animals that were with you and came out of the ark. 11 I will establish my covenant with you, that never again shall all bodily creatures be destroyed by the waters of a flood; there shall not be another flood to devastate the earth.” 12 God added: “This is the sign that I am giving for all ages to come, of the covenant between me and you and every living creature with you: 13 I set my bow in the clouds to serve as a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.”

P S A L M

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

R: From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.

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

GOSPEL

Suffering is part of true discipleship. If our Savior suffers, we share in His suffering, just like His disciples. But it is not God’s will for us to live in affliction. Sin is the cause of our suffering. We can give meaning to our pain if we see it through Jesus’ eyes and if we unite it to His suffering on the cross. Then our suffering becomes redemptive as we become co-redeemers through Christ.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Mark 8:27-33

27 Jesus and his disciples set out for the villages of Caesarea Philippi. Along the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” 28 They said in reply, “John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others one of the prophets.” 29 And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said to him in reply, “You are the Christ.” 30 Then he warned them not to tell anyone about him. 31 He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and rise after three days. 32 He spoke this openly. Then Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33 At this he turned around and, looking at his disciples, rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan. You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do.”

Daily Readings for February 15, 2017

1ST READING

In times of trial and tribulation let us hold on to the promise that God gave Noah – that He will never allow us to be totally destroyed. There will always be a faithful remnant who will keep the Gospel alive no matter how dark the days become. God will prevail over evil. Let this give us hope.

Genesis 8:6-13, 20-22

6 At the end of forty days Noah opened the hatch he had made in the ark, 7 and he sent out a raven, to see if the waters had lessened on the earth. It flew back and forth until the waters dried off from the earth. 8 Then he sent out a dove, to see if the waters had lessened on the earth. 9 But the dove could find no place to alight and perch, and it returned to him in the ark, for there was water all over the earth. Putting out his hand, he caught the dove and drew it back to him inside the ark. 10 He waited seven days more and again sent the dove out from the ark. 11 In the evening the dove came back to him, and there in its bill was a plucked-off olive leaf! So Noah knew that the waters had lessened on the earth. 12 He waited still another seven days and then released the dove once more; and this time it did not come back. 13 In the six hundred and first year of Noah’s life, in the first month, on the first day of the month, the water began to dry up on the earth. Noah then removed the covering of the ark and saw that the surface of the ground was drying up. 20 Noah built an altar to the Lord, and choosing from every clean animal and every clean bird, he offered burnt offering on the altar. 21 When the Lord smelled the sweet odor, he said to himself: “Never again will I doom the earth because of man, since the desires of man’s heart are evil from the start; nor will I ever again strike down all living beings, as I have done. 22 As long as the earth lasts, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.”

P S A L M

Psalm 116:12-13, 14-15, 18-19

R: To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.

12 How shall I make a return to the Lord for all the good he has done for me? 13 The cup of salvation I will take up, and I will call upon the name of the Lord. (R) 14 My vows to the Lord I will pay in the presence of all his people. 15 Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of his faithful ones. (R) 18 My vows to the Lord I will pay in the presence of all his people, 19 in the courts of the house of the Lord, in your midst, O Jerusalem. (R)

GOSPEL 

Jesus heals the blind man gradually. We are “works in progress” and God is working bit by bit to help us grow in holiness and faith. Let us place our hope in the victory of good over evil, and God over all other things. Let us choose the way of God over the ways of sin and the world.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our hearts, that we may know what is the hope that belongs to his call.

Mark 8:22-26

22 When Jesus and his disciples arrived at Bethsaida, people brought to him a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. 23 He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. Putting spittle on his eyes he laid his hands on the man and asked, “Do you see anything?” 24 Looking up the man replied, “I see people looking like trees and walking.” 25 Then he laid hands on the man’s eyes a second time and he saw clearly; his sight was restored and he could see everything distinctly. 26 Then he sent him home and said, “Do not even go into the village.”

Daily Readings for February 14, 2017

1ST READING 

In this event, we see God sending a violent flood to destroy the wickedness of the world. Noah alone was found to be righteous, and he and his family were saved. This story prefigures many theological studies including that of the Final Judgment. God will judge us according to our actions and there will be no escaping this. Let us live righteous lives like Noah.

Genesis 6:5-8; 7:1-5, 10

5 When the Lord saw how great was man’s wickedness on earth, and how no desire that his heart conceived was ever anything but evil, 6 he regretted that he had made man on the earth, and his heart was grieved. 7 So the Lord said: “I will wipe out from the earth the men whom I have created, and not only the men, but also the beasts and the creeping things and the birds of the air, for I am sorry that I made them.” 8 But Noah found favor with the Lord. 7:1 Then the Lord said to Noah: “Go into the ark, you and all your household, for you alone in this age have I found to be truly just. 2 Of every clean animal, take with you seven pairs, a male and its mate; and of the unclean animals, one pair, a male and its mate; 3 likewise, of every clean bird of the air, seven pairs, a male and a female, and of all the unclean birds, one pair, a male and a female. Thus you will keep their issue alive over all the earth. 4 Seven days from now I will bring rain down on the earth for forty days and forty nights, and so I will wipe out from the surface of the earth every moving creature that I have made.” 5 Noah did just as the Lord had commanded him. 10 As soon as the seven days were over, the waters of the flood came upon the earth.

P S A L M

Psalm 29:1, 2, 3-4, 3, 9-10

R: The Lord will bless his people with peace.

1 Give to the Lord, you sons of God, give to the Lord glory and praise, 2 give to the Lord the glory due his name; adore the Lord in holy attire. (R) 3 The voice of the Lord is over the waters, the Lord, over vast waters. 4 The voice of the Lord is mighty; the voice of the Lord is majestic. (R) The God of glory thunders, 9 and in his temple all say, “Glory!” 10 The Lord is enthroned above the flood; the Lord is enthroned as king forever. (R)

GOSPEL

We are called to be leaven in the world and to be witnesses of the Gospel. If we do this well, then our society will see the truth of the Gospel. If we do not  do it well, then sin will prevail. The choice is ours as to what sort of witness we will be to the world.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Whoever loves me will keep my word, says the Lord; and my Father will love him and we will come to him.

Mark 8:14-21

14 The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, and they had only one  loaf with them in the boat. 15 Jesus enjoined them, “Watch out, guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” 16 They concluded among themselves that it was because they had no bread. 17 When he became aware of this he said to them, “Why do you conclude that it is because you have no bread? Do you not yet understand or comprehend? Are your hearts hardened? 18 Do you have eyes and not see, ears and not hear? And do you not remember, 19 when I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many wicker baskets full of fragments you picked up?” They answered him, “Twelve.” 20 “When I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many full baskets of fragments did you pick up?” They answered him, “Seven.” 21 He said to them, “Do you still not understand?”