Daily Readings for September 30, 2017

Memorial of St. Jerome, priest and Doctor of the Church

1ST READING

We celebrate today the Feast Day of St. Jerome, a man renowned for his love of the Scriptures. God’s Word is the major source of our knowledge as to the nature of God and His love for us. It is not a cliché that “ignorance of the Scriptures is ignorance of Christ,” as St. Jerome said. If we fail to immerse ourselves in the Scriptures, we ignore God speaking to us through them. We should take every opportunity to increase our knowledge and experience of God.

Zechariah 2:5-9, 14-15

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

P S A L M

Jeremiah 31:10, 11-12, 13

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

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

GOSPEL

In a sense, our lives are a venue where the supernatural grace and blessings of God are given over into human hands, our own hands in fact. What are we doing with such precious gifts? Are we ignoring them and going our own way? Or are we embracing each and every one of them and allowing them to transform our lives? Maybe we have a bit of both of these responses. If so, let us resolve to try and lessen the former and increase the latter.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Luke 9:43-45

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

Daily Readings for September 29, 2017

Feast of Sts. Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels

1ST READING

Today, we celebrate the Feast Day of the Archangels. I am not sure how to explain them other than the way that I relate to them according to the meaning of their names. I turn to Michael when I need strength; to Raphael when there is a need for healing; and to Gabriel when I have made a mess of communicating things with others. This seems to me how the Scriptures present them, and so I try to follow that example.

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

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

P S A L M

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

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

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

GOSPEL

There must have been something about Jesus that made Him different. How else is Nathaniel going to recognize that He is the Son of God? There will always be little hints or indications that signal a special presence of God for a time. We need to recognize them so that we can draw as much as we possibly can from them.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

John 1:47-51

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

Daily Readings for September 28, 2017

1ST READING

Haggai is chastising the people because they live in fancy houses while the Temple, the Lord’s dwelling, is in a shabby state. Too often, the room we offer the Lord — our own hearts — is impure and full of sin. Let us repent of our sins and allow the Holy Spirit to bring us to a deeper conversion of heart and mind so that the Lord will have a pure and holy dwelling in us.

Haggai 1:1-8

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

P S A L M

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

R: The Lord takes delight in his people.

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

GOSPEL

Herod is a bit of an enigma. He likes to listen to John’s preaching but continues to live a very unholy life. This will end very badly for John. We need to avoid becoming complicit in corruption as Herod. We know what the Gospel demands of us, yet we often do not respond to it or simply ignore the call of God. This is not acceptable for a disciple of Jesus. Let us resolve to change our ways today.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Luke 9:7-9

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

Daily Readings for September 27, 2017

1ST READING

St. Vincent de Paul had an incredibly deep love for the poor. He devoted his life to caring for them and organizing others to care for them as well. In many places around the world, the ministry to the poor in the parish setting is called the St. Vincent de Paul Society in his honor. Let us be inspired by the life of St. Vincent as we serve the poor in whatever way we can.

Ezra 9:5-9

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

P S A L M

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

R: Blessed be God, who lives forever.

2 He scourges and then has mercy; he casts down to the depths of the nether world, and he brings up from the great abyss. No one can escape His hand. (R) 3 Praise him, you children of Israel, before the Gentiles, for though he has scattered you among them, 4 he has shown you His greatness even there. (R) 6 In the land of my exile I praise Him, and show his power and majesty to a sinful nation. (R) 7 “As for me, I exalt my God, and my spirit rejoices in the King of heaven. 8 Let all men speak of his majesty, and sing his praises in Jerusalem.” (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus sent His disciples out to proclaim the Good News. We, too, must always look for opportunities to take the Gospel to those who have not heard it, and even to those who need to be renewed in their faith. Let us always offer the Gospel to others without cost, though we have the right to seek the support and openness of those for whom we are working and sharing the Gospel.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Luke 9:1-6

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

Daily Readings for September 26, 2017

1ST READING

Those who returned from exile rebuild the Temple quickly. They will then have to turn their attention to the walls of Jerusalem, a much bigger task. We need to work together if the work God has for us is going to be accomplished. None of us can journey to salvation alone. We need one another for support and encouragement. It is also good to care for and protect one another from the devil.

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

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

P S A L M

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

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

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

GOSPEL

Again, Jesus reminds us that His focus is on our response to His grace, not who our parents might happen to be. What is important is our readiness to listen to God’s Word and then obey it. This will bring with it all sorts of challenges as we experience disappointment and struggles. However, nothing good in life comes without a cost. Whatever is the price, let us choose to follow Jesus. Our reward is heaven.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Luke 8:19-21

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

Daily Readings for September 25, 2017

1ST READING

Cyrus is an interesting king. He is not a Jew and yet the Scriptures refer to him as the Messiah (somewhere in Isaiah). How do we understand this? Cyrus allows the Israelites to return to Jerusalem from their place of exile. This is the nature of his “messiah-ship.” He frees the people from exile and allows them to return home. In a similar way but on a spiritual level, Jesus does the same thing for us through the forgiveness of our sins.

Ezra 1:1-6

1 In the first year of Cyrus, king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the Lord spoken by Jeremiah, the Lord inspired King Cyrus of Persia to issue this  proclamation throughout his kingdom, both by word of mouth and in writing: 2 “Thus says Cyrus, king of Persia: ‘All the kingdoms of the earth the Lord, the God of heaven, has given to me, and he has also charged me to build him a house in Jerusalem, which is in Judah. 3 Therefore, whoever among you belongs to any part of his people, let him go up, and may his God be with him! 4 Let everyone who has survived, in whatever place he may have dwelt, be assisted by the people of that place with silver, gold, goods, and cattle, together with free-will offerings for the house of God in Jerusalem.’ ” 5 Then the family heads of Judah and Benjamin and the priests and Levites — everyone, that is, whom God had inspired to do so — prepared to go up to build the house of the Lord in Jerusalem. 6 All their neighbors gave them help in every way, with silver, gold, goods, and cattle, and with many precious gifts besides all their free-will offerings.

P S A L M

Psalm 126:1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 6

R: The Lord has done marvels for us.

1 When the Lord brought back the captives of Zion, we were like men dreaming. 2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with rejoicing. (R) Then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” 3 The Lord has done great hings for us; we are glad indeed. (R) 4 Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like the torrents in the southern desert. 5 Those that sow in tears shall reap rejoicing. (R) 6 Although they go forth weeping, carrying the seed to be sown, they shall come back rejoicing, carrying their sheaves. (R)

GOSPEL

We have received the gift of salvation. This is the greatest gift anyone can receive. We should never be ashamed of sharing this Good News with others, no matter how apprehensive we may be. Jesus has forgiven our sins and wants everyone to know that we are forgiven. If we do not tell the world, who will? If we do not declare victory over sin in our lives, who will? It is a bit like the time when the prophet said – if we do not praise the Lord, then the stones will rise up and do it.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.

Luke 8:16-18

16 Jesus said to the crowd: “No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light. 18 Take care, then, how you hear. To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.”

Daily Readings for September 24, 2017

1ST READING

Sometimes we will find it hard to understand what the Lord is doing in our lives. This is OK. God is so much smarter than we are and He knows what we need better than we do. There are times when we just have to trust that whatever He is doing is going to turn out to be the best for us. It does not mean that we will just sit back and wait for God to do everything — we still have to seek His will, seek to understand it, and put it into practice, while trusting that He will guide us.

Isaiah 55:6-9

6 Seek the Lord while he may be found, call him while he is near. 7 Let the scoundrel forsake his way, and the wicked man his thoughts; let him turn to the Lord for mercy; to our God, who is generous in forgiving. 8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord. 9 As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways above your ways and my thoughts above your thoughts.

P S A L M 

Psalm 145:2-3, 8-9, 17-18

R: The Lord is near to all who call upon him.

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) 8 The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness. 9 The Lord is good to all and compassionate toward all his works. (R) 17 The Lord is just in all his ways and holy in all his works. 18 The Lord is near to all who call upon him, to all who call upon him in truth. (R)

2ND READING

What is the bottom line for Paul? That we all conduct ourselves in the way of Christ. In other words — become a disciple of Jesus for the rest of your life. There is no higher calling than that. Being a disciple means many things. This means that while we can be inspired by the response of others to the grace of God at work in their lives, we still need to make our own response according to His will and grace.

Philippians 1:20-24, 27

20 Brothers and sisters: Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me life is Christ, and death is gain. 22 If I go on living in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. And I do not know which I shall choose. 23 I am caught between the two. I long to depart this life and be with Christ, for that is far better. 24 Yet that I remain in the flesh is more necessary for your benefit. 27 Only, conduct yourselves in a way worthy of the gospel of Christ.

GOSPEL

It is God’s prerogative to dispense His blessings and graces as He desires. There is no formula as to how much grace we get for doing anything in particular. We simply respond to God’s love for us and He keeps drawing us deeper into our relationship with Him. How He does that and how long it takes is up to God and whether or not we respond to His grace. There lies the challenge.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Open our hearts, O Lord, to listen to the words of your Son.

Matthew 20:1-16

1 Jesus told his people this parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out at dawn to hire laborers for his vineyard. 2 After agreeing with them for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 Going out about nine o’clock, the landowner saw others standing idle in the marketplace, 4 and he said to them, ‘You too go into my vineyard, and I will give you what is just.’ 5 So they went off. And he went out again around noon, and around three o’clock, and did likewise. 6 Going out about five o’clock, the landowner found others standing around, and said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’ 7 They answered, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You too go into my vineyard.’ 8 When it was evening the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Summon the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and ending with the first.’ 9 When those who had started about five o’clock came, each received the usual daily wage. 10 So when the first came, they thought that they would receive  more, but each of them also got the usual wage. 11 And on receiving it they grumbled against the landowner, 12 saying, ‘These last ones worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us, who bore the day’s burden and the heat.’ 13 He said to one of them in reply, ‘My friend, I am not cheating you. Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? 14 Take what is yours and go. What if I wish to give this last one the same as you? 15 Or am I not free to do as I wish with my own money? Are you envious because I am generous?’ 16 Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.”

Daily Readings for September 23, 2017

1ST READING

It seems that Paul’s exhortation here is virtually prophetic. He is on his way to be judged by the Roman authorities and so he will need to remain faithful to the Gospel. It is important that we stand up to the truth of the Gospel when what we are doing is called into question. It is here, at the crossroads of the spiritual and the secular, that we will have ample opportunity to give testimony to Jesus and the role He has given to us.

1 Timothy 6:13-16

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

P S A L M

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

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

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

GOSPEL

How committed are we to following the Lord? How do we spend our time during the day? How much time do we waste on social media and other tasks that are not all that important? When we do not give our relationship with God enough attention, it will never grow. Let us always see the right balance among our various commitments.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Luke 8:4-15

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

Daily Readings for September 22, 2017

1ST READING

Our faith needs to be translated into action. It is not enough to profess our faith in and love for Jesus; we must allow that same faith to guide and direct our actions in the way of the Gospel, the way of holiness. This is what discipleship involves: putting into practice the principles of the Gospel so that it will become a living and vibrant reality.

1 Timothy 6:2-12

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

P S A L M

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

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

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

GOSPEL

We all have a part to play in God’s overall plan. Some have very big roles such as the bishops, priests and deacons. The majority of us will be supporters of the various works of God. However, others will be called to lay leadership in the Church. It is important that we seek God’s will daily to discover exactly what part of the Church’s mission God desires us to live.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Luke 8:1-3

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

Daily Readings for September 21, 2017

Feast of St. Matthew, Apostle

1ST READING

Even when he is a prisoner, Paul cannot keep himself from writing to the communities he has established, to encourage and disciple them in the ways of the faith. He is an inspiring figure, able to set aside his own cares and concerns, think of the people’s needs, and do what he can to help them. Let us imitate Paul’s commitment in spreading the Gospel in missionary places.

Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-13

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

P S A L M

Psalm 19:2-3, 4-5

R: Their message goes out through all the earth.

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

GOSPEL

The calling of Matthew is a remarkable testimony to the power of the Gospel. Jesus simply trusts in His discernment and calls Matthew. He is well aware that the path to apostleship will be a long one. Let us never despair at the difficulty in front of us as we can be sure that God knows what He is doing when He calls us out of sin into His wonderful light.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Matthew 9:9-13

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

Daily Readings for September 20, 2017

1ST READING

We live in a world that’s becoming more antagonistic to the Gospel every day. The witness of the martyrs, like those who gave their lives in establishing the Church in Korea, is so important for us, as their total commitment to their faith is what we and the Church need today. Let us imitate their faith in the face of difficulty, even death, and pray for the grace to do whatever it takes to witness to and proclaim the Gospel, in both word and deed.

1 Timothy 3:14-16

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

P S A L M

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

R: How great are the works of the Lord!

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

GOSPEL

No matter how well we preach or how good we are at explaining the truths of the faith, there will always be someone who will not be satisfied. All we can do is to respond as best as we can to what we think God is asking us to do. In fact, this is precisely what He asks of us as His disciples — to seek His will and to follow it every day.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Luke 7:31-35

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

Daily Readings for September 19, 2017

1ST READING

St. Paul reminds us that if we aspire to be ministers of the Gospel, then we have to live it out fully. He is aware of the power of the lived witness of the Gospel. The way Christians will change the world is through the witness of their lives, accompanied by words, where necessary.

1 Timothy 3:1-13

1 Beloved, this saying is trustworthy: whoever aspires to the office of bishop desires a noble task. 2 Therefore, a bishop must be irreproachable, married only once, temperate, self-controlled, decent, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not a drunkard, not aggressive, but gentle, not contentious, not a lover of money. 4 He must manage his own household well, keeping his children under control with perfect dignity; 5 for if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how can he take care of the Church of God? 6 He should not be a recent convert, so that he may not become conceited and thus incur the Devil’s punishment. 7 He must also have a good reputation among outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, the Devil’s trap. 8 Similarly, deacons must be dignified, not deceitful, not addicted to drink, not greedy for sordid gain, 9 holding fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 Moreover, they should be tested first; then, if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. 11 Women, similarly, should be dignified, not slanderers, but temperate and faithful in everything. 12 Deacons may be married only once and must manage their children and their households well. 13 Thus those who serve well as deacons gain good standing and much confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.

P S A L M

Psalm 101:1-2, 2-3, 5, 6

R: I will walk with blameless heart.

1 Of mercy and judgment I will sing; to you, O Lord, I will sing praise. 2 I will persevere in the way of integrity; when will you come to me? (R) I will walk in the integrity of my heart, within my house; 3 I will not set before my eyes any base thing. (R) 5 Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, him will I destroy. The man of haughty eyes and puffed-up heart I will not endure. (R) 6 My eyes are upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me. He who walks in the way of integrity shall be in my service. (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus is being compared with Elijah and Elisha who both performed miracles similar to this one in the same area. This miracle and the peoples’ affirmation testify that Jesus is truly walking in the spiritual tradition of the prophets and great seers. Miracles, however, are not enough. We need to move beyond the signs and wonders of the spiritual life to constancy of growth in holiness — doing the hard decisions of everyday discipleship.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

A great prophet has arisen in our midst and God has visited his people.

Luke 7:11-17

11 Jesus journeyed to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd accompanied him. 12 As he drew near to the gate of the city, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the city was with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, “Do not weep.” 14 He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” 15 The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. 16 Fear seized them all, and they glorified God, exclaiming, “A great prophet has arisen in our midst,” and “God has visited his people.” 17 This report about him spread through the whole of Judea and in all the surrounding region.

Daily Readings for September 18, 2017

1ST READING

It is good to be reminded that it is only through a relationship with Jesus that we can come to God and attain the gift of salvation. St. Paul knows this truth to the max. He has come from a relationship with God that is based on what he did and achieved through sheer hard work and willpower. His encounter with Jesus on the way to Damascus brought about a significant change in his life. It is all about what God has done for us and not what we can do for God.

1 Timothy 2:1-8

1 Beloved: First of all, then, I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, 2 for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. 3 This is good and pleasing to God our savior, 4 who wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God. There is also one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as ransom for all. This was the testimony at the proper time. 7 For this I was appointed preacher and Apostle (I am speaking the truth, I am not lying), teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8 It is my wish, then, that in every place the men should pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or argument.

P S A L M

Psalm 28:2, 7, 8-9

R: Blessed be the Lord, for he has heard my prayer.

2 Hear the sound of my pleading, when I cry to you, lifting up my hands toward your holy shrine. (R) 7 The Lord is my strength and my shield. In him my heart trusts, and I find help; then my heart exults, and with my song I give him thanks. (R) 8 The Lord is the strength of his people, the saving refuge of his anointed. 9 Save your people, and bless your inheritance; feed them, and carry them forever! (R)

GOSPEL

The centurion understands the power of God’s Word. If only we were as convinced as he is of the power of Jesus’ word to transform a situation, we would see far more miracles than we do. Growing in faith and trust in God’s word is one of the most difficult aspects of discipleship, but without it, we cannot hope to grow closer to God. Let us choose to work hard to study, understand and trust in the Word of God.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life.

Luke 7:1-10

1 When Jesus had finished all his words to the people, he entered Capernaum. 2 A centurion there had a slave who was ill and about to die, and he was valuable to him. 3 When he heard about Jesus, he sent elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and save the life of his slave. 4 They approached Jesus and strongly urged him to come, saying, “He deserves to have you do this for him, 5 for he loves our nation and he built the synagogue for us.” 6 And Jesus went with them, but when he was only a short distance from the house, the centurion sent friends to tell him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof. 7 Therefore, I did not consider myself worthy to come to you; but say the word and let my servant be healed. 8 For I too am a person subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come here,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him and, turning, said to the crowd following him, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” 10 When the messengers returned to the house, they found the slave in good health.

Daily Readings for September 17, 2017

1ST READING

Sin tends to predispose us to more sin. Once we enter into a life of sin, it can easily turn into a horrible spiral of increasing sin if we are not alert to the wiles of the devil. This is why the saints are adamant that we break with the ways of sin as soon as we become aware of their presence. The challenge is that this process is painful. Rooting out anything always means a certain amount of trauma. Let us accept the pain that accompanies growth in holiness.

Sirach 27:30-28:7

30 Wrath and anger are hateful things, yet the sinner hugs them tight. 28:1 The vengeful will suffer the Lord’s vengeance, for he remembers their sins in detail. 2 Forgive your neighbor’s injustice; then when you pray, your own sins will be forgiven. 3 Could anyone nourish anger against another and expect healing from the Lord? 4 Could anyone refuse mercy to another like himself, can he seek pardon for his own sins? 5 If one who is but flesh cherishes wrath, who will forgive his sins? 6 Remember your last days, set enmity aside; remember death and decay, and cease from sin! 7 Think of the commandments, hate not your neighbor; remember the Most High’s covenant, and overlook faults.

P S A L M

Psalm 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12

R: The Lord is kind and merciful, slow to anger, and rich in compassion.

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, heals all your ills. 4 He redeems your life from destruction, crowns you with kindness and compassion. (R) 9 He will not always chide, nor does he keep his wrath forever. 10 Not according to our sins does he deal with us, nor does he requite us according to our crimes. (R) 11 For as the heavens are high above the earth, so surpassing is his kindness toward those who fear him. 12 As far as the east is from the west, so far has he put our transgressions from us. (R)

2ND READING

Paul reminds us that God should always be the focus of our lives. It is when our hearts and minds slip, and their focus shift to something other than God, that we open ourselves to sin. We need to be alert to the challenge to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. It is hard work but worth it in the long-term as we prepare ourselves for the gift of eternal life.

Romans 14:7-9

7 Brothers and sisters: None of us lives for oneself, and no one dies for oneself. 8 For if we live, we live for the Lord, and if we die, we die for the Lord; so then, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. 9 For this is why Christ died and came to life, that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living.

GOSPEL

We live in a time when terrorist acts seem to be almost a daily occurrence. What should be our response to this? Are we permitted to hate the people who perpetuate such things? We can hate the sin, but we are always called to love and forgive the sinner. This is the way of Jesus and so it should be our way too as His disciples. Yes, we need to take the necessary precautions to protect life as best as we can, but it is love that is going to bring any solution to its root cause.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

I give you a new commandment, says the Lord; love one another as I have loved you.

Matthew 18:21-35

21 Peter approached Jesus and asked him, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive? As many as seven times?” 22 Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times. 23 That is why the kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who decided to settle accounts with his servants. 24 When he began the accounting, a debtor was brought before him who owed him a huge amount. 25 Since he had no way of paying it back, his master ordered him to be sold, along with his wife, his children, and all his property, in payment of the debt. 26 At that, the servant fell down, did him homage, and said, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back in full.’ 27 Moved with compassion the master of that servant let him go and forgave him the loan. 28 When that servant had left, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a much smaller amount. He seized him and started to choke him, demanding, ‘Pay back what you owe.’ 29 Falling to his knees, his fellow servant begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.’ 30 But he refused. Instead, he had the fellow servant put in prison until he paid back the debt. 31 Now when his fellow servants saw what had happened, they were deeply disturbed, and went to their master and reported the whole affair. 32 His master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to. 33 Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant, as I had pity on you?’ 34 Then in anger his master handed him over to the torturers until he should pay back the whole debt. 35 So will my heavenly Father do to you, unless each of you forgives his brother from his heart.”

Daily Readings for September 16, 2017

1ST READING

Paul knows the magnificent grace he received when he underwent his conversion from a Christian persecutor, to a follower and preacher of Christ. This is what is behind his almost fanatical desire to proclaim the Gospel. He knows the power of the Gospel to transform lives and he wants everybody to experience this. His fervor is easy to understand when you consider his life story.

1 Timothy 1:15-17

15 Beloved: This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. Of these I am the foremost. 16 But for that reason I was mercifully treated, so that in me, as the foremost, Christ Jesus might display all his patience as an example for those who would come to believe in him for everlasting life. 17 To the king of ages, incorruptible, invisible, the only God, honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

P S A L M

Psalm 113:1-2, 3-4, 5, 6-7

R: Blessed be the name of the Lord forever.

1 Praise, you servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord. 2 Blessed be the name of the Lord both now and forever. (R) 3 From the rising to the setting of the sun is the name of the Lord to be praised. 4 High above all nations is the Lord; above the heavens is his  glory. (R) 5 Who is like the Lord, our God, 6 and looks upon the heavens and the earth below? 7 He raises up the lowly from the dust; from the dunghill he lifts up the poor. (R)

GOSPEL

The fruit of a person’s life is their legacy to the world, to their family and friends. And the greatest fruit any of us can bear is our willingness to share the Gospel with others. We cannot give anyone any greater gift than the Gospel. This is why living the Gospel and proclaiming it will always bring us the deepest joy and satisfaction.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Luke 6:43-49

43 Jesus said to his disciples: “A good tree does not bear rotten fruit, nor does a rotten tree bear good fruit. 44 For every tree is known by its own fruit. For people do not pick figs from thornbushes, nor do they gather grapes from brambles. 45 A good person out of the store of goodness in his heart produces good, but an evil person out of a store of evil produces evil; for from the fullness of the heart the mouth speaks. 46 “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ but not do what I command? 47 I will show you what someone is like who comes to me, listens to my words, and acts on them. 48 That one is like a man building a house, who dug deeply and laid the foundation on rock; when the flood came, the river burst against that house but could not shake it because it had been well built. 49 But the one who listens and does not act is like a person who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the river burst against it, it collapsed at once and was completely destroyed.”