Daily Readings for May 31, 2018

Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

1st READING

Hospitality has always been important to religious groups. It demonstrates the depth of conversion we have received. Let us always be generous in helping those in need. Let us love in simple, practical ways.

Zephaniah 3:14-18 (or Romans 12:9-16)

14 Shout for joy, O daughter Zion! Sing joyfully, O Israel! Be glad and exult with all your heart, O daughter Jerusalem! 15 The Lord has removed the judgment against you, he has turned away your enemies; the King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst, you have no further misfortune to fear. 16 On that day, it shall be said to Jerusalem: Fear not, O Zion, be not discouraged! 17 The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a mighty savior; He will rejoice over you with gladness, and renew you in his love, He will sing joyfully because of you, 18 as one sings at festivals.

P S A L M 

Isaiah 12:2-3, 4, 5-6

R: Among you is the great and Holy One of Israel.

2 God indeed is my savior; I am confident and unafraid. My strength and my courage is the Lord, and he has been my savior. 3 With joy you will draw water at the fountain of salvation. (R) 4 Give thanks to the Lord, acclaim his name; among the nations make known his deeds, proclaim how exalted is his name. (R) 5 Sing praise to the Lord for his glorious achievement; let this be known throughout all the earth. 6 Shout with exultation, O city of Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel! (R)

GOSPEL 

Mary’s heart is full of joy as she visits Elizabeth. Even though she may not completely understand it, Mary willingly partakes in God’s plan. She spends time with Elizabeth who is pregnant and will give birth in her old age. Today’s Gospel shows us Mary’s compassion and love. Let us look to Mary and be generous in helping others.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Blessed are you, O Virgin Mary, who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.

Luke 1:39-56

39 Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, 40 where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, 42 cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. 43 And how does this happen to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” 46 And Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; 47 my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has looked with favour on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: 49 the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. 50 He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. 51 He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. 52 He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. 53 He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. 54 He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for he has remembered his promise of mercy, 55 the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children forever.” 56 Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home.

Daily Readings for May 30, 2018

1st READING

Living in truth purifies us. If we want to grow as a disciple we need to be committed to the truth of the Gospel and the teachings of the Church. These focus on eternal life and will challenge secular beliefs that tend toward the pursuit of pleasure. Let us pray that the Holy Spirit transforms us to become more like Jesus.

1 Peter 1:18-25

18 Beloved: Realize that you were ransomed from your futile conduct, handed on by your ancestors, not with perishable things like silver or gold 19 but with the precious Blood of Christ as of a spotless unblemished Lamb. 20 He was known before the foundation of the world but revealed in the final time for you, 21 who through him believe in God who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God. 22 Since you have purified yourselves by obedience to the truth for sincere brotherly love, love one another intensely from a pure heart. 23 You have been born anew, not from perishable but from imperishable seed, through the living and abiding word of God, 24 for: “All flesh is like grass, and all its glory like the flower of the field; the grass withers, and the flower wilts; 25 but the word of the Lord remains forever.” This is the word that has been proclaimed to you.

P S A L M 

Psalm 147:12-13, 14-15, 19-20

R: Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.

12 Glorify the Lord, O Jerusalem; praise your God, O Zion. 13 For he has strengthened the bars of your gates; he has blessed your children within you. (R) 14 He has granted peace in your borders; with the best of wheat he fills you. 15 He sends forth his command to the earth; swiftly runs his word! (R) 19 He has proclaimed his word to Jacob, his statutes and his ordinances to Israel. 20 He has not done thus for any other nation; his ordinances he has not made known to them. Alleluia. (R)

GOSPEL 

In today’s Gospel, we see that the disciples still need to learn that suffering is part of discipleship. We need to consider this as we decide to follow Jesus. Discipleship requires prayer and discernment. Once we start down the road of discipleship, God expects us to fully embrace the call.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Mark 10:32-45

32 The disciples were on the way, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus went ahead of them. They were amazed, and those who followed were afraid. Taking the Twelve aside again, he began to tell them what was going to happen to him. 33 “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death and hand him over to the Gentiles 34 who will mock him, spit upon him, scourge him, and put him to death, but after three days he will rise.” 35 Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus and said to him, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.” 36 He replied, “What do you wish me to do for you?” 37 They answered him, “Grant that in your glory we may sit one at your right and the other at your left.” 38 Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the cup that I drink or be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” 39 They said to him, “We can.” Jesus said to them, “The chalice that I drink, you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized; 40 but to sit at my right or at my left is not mine to give but is for those for whom it has been prepared.” 41 When the ten heard this, they became indignant at James and John. 42 Jesus summoned them and said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones make their authority over them felt. 43 But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; 44 whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all. 45 For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Daily Readings for May 29, 2018

1st READING

“Live soberly and set your hopes completely on the grace... of Christ.” Peter encourages the community with these words so that the people may turn away from sin and the excesses of the world. We need the same encouragement since we, too, live in a world full of excesses and the pursuit of comfort and pleasure. As Christians, let us be a light to others and share the values of the Kingdom of God.

1 Peter 1:10-16

10 Beloved: Concerning the salvation of your souls the prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours searched and investigated it, 11 investigating the time and circumstances that the Spirit of Christ within them indicated when it testified in advance to the sufferings destined for Christ and the glories to follow them. 12 It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you with regard to the things that have now been announced to you by those who preached the Good News to you through the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels longed to look. 13 Therefore, gird up the loins of your mind, live soberly, and set your hopes completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 Like obedient children, do not act in compliance with the desires of your former ignorance 15 but, as he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in every aspect of your conduct, 16 for it is written, Be holy because I am holy. 

P S A L M 

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

R: The Lord has made known his salvation.

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

GOSPEL 

“The first will be last and the last will be first,” is one of the paradoxes that Jesus teaches us. It warns us that those who are held in esteem in the world may not be treated in the same way in the Kingdom of heaven. Let us pray for the grace to listen to the Holy Spirit as He leads and guides us. 

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 May 28, 2018

1st READING 

Peter reminds us that suffering is an inevitable part of proclaiming the Gospel. The Gospel brings judgment on the prevailing secular culture and will cause some conflict. There are people who oppose and react negatively to the teachings of the Gospel. We must stand firm in the truth and never fear conflict.

1 Peter 1:3-9

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in his great mercy gave us a new birth to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you 5 who by the power of God are safeguarded through faith, to a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the final time. 6 In this you rejoice, although now for a little while you may have to suffer through various trials, 7 so that the genuineness of your faith, more precious than gold that is perishable even though tested by fire, may prove to be for praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 8 Although you have not seen him you love him; even though you do not see him now yet believe in him, you rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, 9 as you attain the goal of faith, the salvation of your souls.

P S A L M 

Psalm 111:1-2, 5-6, 9, 10

R: The Lord will remember his covenant forever.

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) 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) 9 He has sent deliverance to his people; he has ratified his covenant forever; holy and awesome is his name. 10 His praise endures forever. (R)

GOSPEL

As citizens of God’s Kingdom, we need to detach ourselves from worldly things. Jesus teaches us in today’s Gospel that this is a challenge for the wealthy. Blessed are those who live simply and are in touch with the Gospel spirit. Let us reflect on this as we celebrate the upcoming Feast of Pentecost.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Jesus Christ became poor although he was rich, so that by his poverty you might become rich. 

Mark 10:17-27

17 As Jesus was setting out on a journey, a man ran up, knelt down before him, and asked him, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18 Jesus answered him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. 19 You know the commandments: You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; you shall not defraud; honor your father and your mother.” 20 He replied and said to him, “Teacher, all of these I have observed from my youth.” 21 Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said to him, “You are lacking in one thing. Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” 22 At that statement his face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions. 23 Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the Kingdom of God!” 24 The disciples were amazed at his words. So Jesus again said to them in reply, “Children, how hard it is to enter the Kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of God.” 26 They were exceedingly astonished and said among themselves, “Then who can be saved?” 27 Jesus looked at them and said, “For men it is impossible, but not for God. All things are possible for God.”

Daily Readings for May 27, 2018

Solemnity of the Holy Trinity

1st READING

In the Old Testament, prosperity is linked to obedience to the Law, which is also a form of holiness. But why then do present-day corrupt businessmen prosper? Sin brings injustice. People are hurt by the sin and unjust ways of others. God has given us free will – may we choose to avoid sin and live a fruitful life for Him.

Deuteronomy 4:32-34, 39-40

32 Moses said to the people: “Ask now of the days of old, before your time, ever since God created man upon the earth; ask from one end of the sky to the other: Did anything so great ever happen before? Was it ever heard of? 33 Did a people ever hear the voice of God speaking from the midst of fire, as you did, and live? 34 Or did any god venture to go and take a nation for himself from the midst of another nation, by testings, by signs and wonders, by war, with his strong hand and outstretched arm, and by great terrors, all of which the Lord, your God, did for you in Egypt before your very eyes? 39 This is why you must now know, and fix in your heart, that the Lord is God in the heavens above and on earth below, and that there is no other. 40 You must keep his statutes and commandments which I enjoin on you today, that you and your children after you may prosper, and that you may have long life on the land which the Lord, your God, is giving you forever.”

P S A L M  

Psalm 33:4-5, 6, 9, 18-19, 20, 22

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

4 Upright is the word of the Lord, and all his works are trustworthy. 5 He loves justice and right; of the kindness of the Lord the earth is full. (R) 6 By the word of the Lord the heavens were made; by the breath of his mouth all their host. 9 For he spoke, and it was made; he commanded, and it stood forth. (R) 18 See, the eyes of the Lord are upon those who fear him, upon those who hope for his kindness, 19 to deliver them from death and preserve them in spite of famine. (R) 20 Our soul waits for the Lord, who is our help and our shield. 22 May your kindness, O Lord, be upon us who have put our hope in you. (R)

2ND READING 

We are children of God. He gave us the gift of salvation that was won for us by Jesus Christ. Let us live as heirs to God’s Kingdom and give the full Christian witness to others. What a beautiful gift we have received — to be God’s children and to call Him “Father.” 

Romans 8:14-17

14 Brothers and sisters: Those who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. 15 For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received a spirit of adoption, through whom we cry, “Abba, Father!” 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if only we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.

GOSPEL

The sacrament of baptism commissions us to bring the Gospel to the ends of the earth. This is both a great privilege and responsibility. Let us take every opportunity to share the Good News even when it is inconvenient. May we be ready to act upon the commission given to us when we were baptized.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Glory to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; to God who is, who was, and who is to come.

Matthew 28:16-20

16 The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had ordered them. 17 When they saw him, they worshipped, but they doubted. 18 Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”

Daily Readings for May 26, 2018

1st READING 

Today’s reading teaches us that good works can cover a multitude of sins. This gives us hope to change for the better and live a full life. To be good is hard work and requires from us our energy, enthusiasm, and commitment. Let us pray that the Lord gives us all the good we need to be His disciples.

James 5:13-20

13 Beloved: Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray. Is anyone in good spirits? He should sing a song of praise. 14 Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the Church, and they should pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 The prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The fervent prayer of a righteous person is very powerful. 17 Elijah was a man like us; yet he prayed earnestly that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain upon the land. 18 Then Elijah prayed again, and the sky gave rain and the earth produced its fruit. 19 My brothers and sisters, if anyone among you should stray from the truth and someone bring him back, 20 he should know that whoever brings back a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.

P S A L M 

Psalm 141:1-2, 3, 8

R: Let my prayer come like incense before you.

1 O Lord, to you I call; hasten to me; hearken to my voice when I call upon you. 2 Let my prayer come like incense before you; the lifting up of my hands, like the evening sacrifice. (R) 3 O Lord, set a watch before my mouth, a guard at the door of my lips. 8 For toward you, O God, my Lord, my eyes are turned; in you I take refuge; strip me not of life. (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus welcomes little children into His presence. Today, the Church also welcomes us – God’s children. We need the Holy Spirit to protect us from strange and heretical doctrines. Let us pray that our priests may be inspired to teach and preach the truth, and that we pass on the truth of our faith to others.

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 May 25, 2018

1st READING

When we sin, do we panic and fear that we are doomed to eternal damnation? We are blessed to have a merciful God. Let us thank Him for His mercy and compassion, for forgiving and loving us despite our sins.

James 5:9-12

9 Do not complain, brothers and sisters, about one another, that you may not be judged. Behold, the Judge is standing before the gates. 10 Take as an example of hardship and patience, brothers and sisters, the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 Indeed we call blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of the perseverance of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, because the Lord is compassionate and merciful. 12 But above all, my brothers and sisters, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath, but let your “Yes” mean “Yes” and your “No” mean “No,” that you may not incur condemnation.

P S A L M 

Psalm 103:1-2, 3-4, 8-9, 11-12

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. 9 He will not always chide, nor does he keep his wrath forever. (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)

GOSPEL 

We know the Church’s position on divorce and remarriage. Let us support this position to maintain balance in our lives and in society. To live without a moral compass is to be blown by a strong wind in any direction. Moral values anchor us to the Lord.

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 May 24, 2018

1st READING

James reminds the rich that they do not own their wealth – it is a gift entrusted to them by the Lord. Though we work hard to earn and grow our wealth, still all that we have are the Lord’s and we are His stewards. More than material wealth, let us pray for the grace to grow in faith, to do our work of evangelization, and store true riches in heaven.

James 5:1-6

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

P S A L M 

Psalm 49:14-15, 15-16, 17-18, 19-20

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

13 [14] This is the way of those whose trust is folly, the end of those contented with their lot: 14 [15] Like sheep they are herded into the netherworld; death is their shepherd, and the upright rule over them. (R) Quickly their form is consumed; the netherworld is their palace. 15 [16] But God will redeem me from the power of the netherworld by receiving me. (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 

All that the devil can offer is life in fire that can never be quenched. Let us pray for the grace to know God’s will for us and follow the path He has set for us. May we be focused and stay on course even in the midst of sufferings and trials. Let us ask the Holy Spirit to help us recognize sin and reject it.

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 May 23, 2018

1st READING 

James gives us practical advice in his writings. Today, he reminds us about the limited time we have to do God’s will – we barely have 100 years to make a difference with our lives. This is worth reflecting upon – the Old Testament reckoned a life of 60 years was about average and that if we lived to 70, then we were in the bonus situation. Today many people live longer. Let us find ways to continue to share in the work of the Gospel as long as we live.

James 4:13-17

13 Beloved: Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we shall go into such and such a town, spend a year there doing business, and make a profit.” 14 You have no idea what your life will be like tomorrow. You are a puff of smoke that appears briefly and then disappears. 15 Instead you should say, “If the Lord wills it, we shall live to do this or that.” 16 But now you are boasting in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. 17 So for one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, it is a sin.

P S A L M 

Psalm 49:2-3, 6-7, 8-10, 11

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

1 [2] Hear this, all you peoples; hearken, all who dwell in the world, 2 [3] of lowly birth or high degree, rich and poor alike. (R) 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) 10 [11] For he can see that wise men die, and likewise the senseless and the stupid pass away, leaving to others their wealth. (R)

GOSPEL 

Being human, we become jealous of the good works that others do for God’s Kingdom. Let us remember that there is more than enough for us to do. The harvest is indeed greater than the current crop of harvesters can handle. Let us pray for vocations, that more men and women enter the religious and priestly life and work in the Lord’s mission field.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Mark 9:38-40

38 John said to Jesus, “Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name, and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow us.” 39 Jesus replied, “Do not prevent him. There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name who can at the same time speak ill of me. 40 For whoever is not against us is for us.”

Daily Readings for May 22, 2018

1st READING

Let us be mindful of our passions and not allow them to control us. From our passions can come the drive and motivation to do many good things – that is, if these are under the control of our minds and sound decision-making. Without guidance, our passions will ultimately lead us to sin.

James 4:1-10

1 Beloved: Where do the wars and where do the conflicts among you come from? Is it not from your passions that make war within your members? 2 You covet but do not possess. You kill and envy but you cannot obtain; you fight and wage war. You do not possess because you do not ask. 3 You ask but do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions. 4 Adulterers! Do you not know that to be a lover of the world means enmity with God? Therefore, whoever wants to be a lover of the world makes himself an enemy of God. 5 Or do you suppose that the Scripture speaks without meaning when it says, The spirit that he has made to dwell in us tends toward jealousy? 6 But he bestows a greater grace; therefore, it says: God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. 7 So submit yourselves to God. Resist the Devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you of two minds. 9 Begin to lament, to mourn, to weep. Let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy into dejection. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will exalt you.

P S A L M 

Psalm 55:7-8, 9-10, 10-11, 23

R: Throw your cares on the Lord, and he will support you.

6 [7] And I say, “Had I but wings like a dove, I would fly away and be at rest. 7 [8] Far away I would  flee; I would lodge in the wilderness.” (R) 8 [9] “I would wait for him who saves me from the violent storm and the tempest.” 9 [10] Engulf them, O Lord; divide their counsels. (R) In the city I see violence and strife; 10 [11] day and night they prowl about upon its walls. (R) 22 [23] Cast your care upon the Lord, and he will support you; never will he permit the just man to be disturbed. (R)

GOSPEL 

More than greatness and fame, Jesus is interested in obedience and surrender to the Father’s will. We get it wrong when our focus shifts from Jesus to ourselves. Let us learn from the saints – they surrendered their lives to the Lord for His use in fulfilling His will of salvation in the world. Like the saints, let us accept the challenge and surrender our lives to God and make a difference in the world. 

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. 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 May 21, 2018

1st READING

Humility, righteousness, truth, and wisdom are important ingredients of a disciple’s life. Our lives bear fruit that will last eternally through living these virtues. Let us live this way of life, so that we are at peace as we face the Lord come Judgment Day.

James 3:13-18

13 Beloved: Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show his works by a good life in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. 15 Wisdom of this kind does not come down from above but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every foul practice. 17 But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peaceable, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without inconstancy or insincerity. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace for those who cultivate peace.

P S A L M 

Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 15

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

7 [8] The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul; the decree of the Lord is trustworthy, giving wisdom to the simple. (R) 8 [9] The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the command of the Lord is clear, enlightening the eye. (R) 9 [10] The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are true, all of them just. (R) 14 [15] Let the words of my mouth and the thought of my heart find favor before you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. (R)

GOSPEL 

“Lord, I believe – help my unbelief!” the possessed child’s father humbly tells Jesus. Let us reflect on his words and see their relevance in our lives. Let us cry out to the Holy Spirit and ask Him to help us with our unbelief.

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, and 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 May 20, 2018

Solemnity of Pentecost

1st READING

The Holy Spirit descends on all those gathered in the Upper Room. There is a room in Jerusalem that is most likely the place of the coming of the Holy Spirit that we commemorate during Pentecost. Let us continue to pray for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit as we strive to make our ministry more effective. May we call upon the grace of the Holy Spirit as we evangelize others.

Acts 2:1-11

1 When the time for Pentecost was fulfilled, they were all in one place together. 2 And suddenly there came from the sky a noise like a strong driving wind, and it filled the entire house in which they were. 3 Then there appeared to them tongues as of fire, which parted and came to rest on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different tongues, as the Spirit enabled them to proclaim. 5 Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven staying in Jerusalem. 6 At this sound, they gathered in a large crowd, but they were confused because each one heard them speaking in his own language. 7 They were astounded, and in amazement they asked, “Are not all these people who are speaking Galileans? 8 Then how does each of us hear them in his own native language? 9 We are Parthians, Medes, and Elamites, inhabitants of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the districts of Libya near Cyrene, as well as travelers from Rome, 11 both Jews and converts to Judaism, Cretans and Arabs, yet we hear them speaking in our own tongues of the mighty acts of God.”

P S A L M

Psalm 104:1, 24, 31, 34, 29-30

R: Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.

1 Bless the Lord, O my soul! O Lord, my God, you are great indeed! 24 How manifold are your works, O Lord! The earth is full of your creatures. (R) 31 May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord be glad in his works! 34 Pleasing to him be my theme; I will be glad in the Lord. (R) 29 If you take away their breath, they perish and return to their dust. 30 When you send forth your spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the earth. (R)

2ND READING 

The Holy Spirit gives us many gifts to build up the Body of Christ and to evangelize people. May we be available for the work of evangelization and contribute our time, talent, and treasure to spread the Good News of salvation. May all Christians share in this task so that the world will come to know Christ and follow His will. 

1 Corinthians 12:3-7, 12-13 (or Galatians 5:16-25)

3 Brothers and sisters: No one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit. 4 There are different kinds of spiritual gifts but the same Spirit; 5 there are different forms of service but the same Lord; 6 there are different workings but the same God who produces all of them in everyone. 7 To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit. 12 As a body is one though it has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though many, are one body, so also Christ. 13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free persons, and we were all given to drink of one Spirit.

GOSPEL 

The Apostles and disciples minister to the flock in Jesus’ name. Let us do all we can to help the bishops — the successors of the Apostles — as we work under their authority and guidance. Serving in God’s Kingdom entails humble submission to authority. Order and institution are necessary aspects of the Church.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.

John 20:19-23 (or John 15: 26-27; 16: 12-15)

19 On the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. 21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.”

Daily Readings for May 19, 2018

1st READING 

Paul is imprisoned in Rome for two years. This gives Paul more chances to speak with and instruct the Roman leaders, and try to evangelize the Jews to the Christian faith. Let Paul inspire us to take every opportunity to share the Gospel with others.

Acts 28:16-20, 30-31

16 When he entered Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with the soldier who was guarding him. 17 Three days later he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had gathered he said to them, “My brothers, although I had done nothing against our people or our ancestral customs, I was handed over to the Romans as a prisoner from Jerusalem. 18 After trying my case the Romans wanted to release me, because they found nothing against me deserving the death penalty. 19 But when the Jews objected, I was obliged to appeal to Caesar, even though I had no accusation to make against my own nation. 20 This is the reason, then, I have requested to see you and to speak with you, for it is on account of the hope of Israel that I wear these chains.” 30 He remained for two full years in his lodgings. He received all who came to him, 31 and with complete assurance and without hindrance he proclaimed the Kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.

P S A L M 

Psalm 11:4, 5, 7

R: The just will gaze on your face, O Lord.

4 The Lord is in his holy temple; the Lord’s throne is in heaven. His eyes behold, his searching glance is on mankind. (R) 5 The Lord searches the just and the wicked; the lover of violence he hates. 7 For the Lord is just, he loves just deeds; the upright shall see his face. (R)

GOSPEL

When it comes to faith, let our first concern be our faithfulness to God. Let us avoid comparing ourselves with others or worrying too much about them. We are responsible for our lives and our response to God’s personal call to us to be His disciples. Let us pray that we will remain faithful to the end.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

I will send to you the Spirit of truth, says the Lord; he will guide you to all truth.

John 21:20-25

20 Peter turned and saw the disciple following whom Jesus loved, the one who had also reclined upon his chest during the supper and had said, “Master, who is the one who will betray you?” 21 When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about him?” 22 Jesus said to him, “What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours? You follow me.” 23 So the word spread among the brothers that that disciple would not die. But Jesus had not told him that he would not die, just “What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours?” 24 It is this disciple who testifies to these things and has written them, and we know that his testimony is true. 25 There are also many other things that Jesus did, but if these were to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written.

Daily Readings for May 18, 2018

1st READING

The authorities treat Paul differently as a prisoner because he is a Roman citizen and has rights above and beyond the majority of the people. He invokes these rights but the authorities are reluctant to deal with him. This situation preserves his life for the meantime.

Acts 25:13-21

13 King Agrippa and Bernice arrived in Caesarea on a visit to Festus. 14 Since they spent several days there, Festus referred Paul’s case to the king, saying, “There is a man here left in custody by Felix. 15 When I was in Jerusalem the chief priests and the elders of the Jews brought charges against him and demanded his condemnation. 16 I answered them that it was not Roman practice to hand over an accused person before he has faced his accusers and had the opportunity to defend himself against their charge. 17 So when they came together here, I made no delay; the next day I took my seat on the tribunal and ordered the man to be brought in. 18 His accusers stood around him, but did not charge him with any of the crimes I suspected. 19 Instead they had some issues with him about their own religion and about a certain Jesus who had died but who Paul claimed was alive. 20 Since I was at a loss how to investigate this controversy, I asked if he were willing to go to Jerusalem and there stand trial on these charges. 21 And when Paul appealed that he be held in custody for the Emperor’s decision, I ordered him held until I could send him to Caesar.”

P S A L M 

Psalm 103:1-2, 11-12, 19-20

R: The Lord has established his throne in heaven.

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 bene ts. (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) 19 The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all. 20Bless the Lord, all you his angels, you mighty in strength, who do his bidding. (R)

GOSPEL 

Our faith and commitment to Jesus will always be tested by God and by the sufferings we will face. These tests are inevitable – they result from being committed to a life witnessing to the truth of the Gospel. As Christians, we are meant to be at the center of the market place, proclaiming the Gospel and living it to the full. 

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

The Holy Spirit will teach you everything and remind you of all I told you.

John 21:15-19

15 After Jesus had revealed himself to his disciples and eaten breakfast with them, he said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” Simon Peter answered him, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” 16 He then said to Simon Peter a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Simon Peter answered him, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was distressed that he had said to him a third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. 18 Amen, amen, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to dress yourself and go where you wanted; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” 19 He said this signifying by what kind of death he would glorify God. And when he had said this, he said to him, “Follow me.”