Daily Readings for October 1, 2018

Memorial of St. Therese of Lisieux, virgin and Doctor of the Church

1st READING

Satan misjudged Job’s character and he loses his bet with God. Despite all the suffering he endures, Job remains faithful to God. We are very quick to turn against Him when something goes wrong, but it takes an eternity to thank Him for His blessings. Why this double standard? Perhaps this is part of concupiscence – not only does it lead us to sin, but it also dulls us to the blessings of God.

Job 1:6-22 (or Isaiah 66:10-14)

6 One day, when the angels of God came to present themselves before the Lord, Satan also came among them. 7 And the Lord said to Satan, “Whence do you come?” Then Satan answered the Lord and said, “From roaming the earth and patrolling it.” 8 And the Lord said to Satan, “Have you noticed my servant Job, and that there is no one on earth like him, blameless and upright, fearing God and avoiding evil?” 9 But Satan answered the Lord and said, “Is it for nothing that Job is God-fearing? 10 Have you not surrounded him and his family and all that he has with your protection? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his livestock are spread over the land. 11 But now put forth your hand and touch anything that he has, and surely he will blaspheme you to your face.” 12 And the Lord said to Satan, “Behold, all that he has is in your power; only do not lay a hand upon his person.” So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord. 13 And so one day, while his sons and his daughters were eating and drinking wine in the house of their eldest brother, 14 a messenger came to Job and said, “The oxen were ploughing and the asses grazing beside them, 15 and the Sabeans carried them off in a raid. They put the herdsmen to the sword, and I alone have escaped to tell you.” 16 While he was yet speaking, another came and said, “Lightning has fallen from heaven and struck the sheep and their shepherds and consumed them; and I alone have escaped to tell you.” 17 While he was yet speaking, another messenger came and said, “The Chaldeans formed three columns, seized the camels, carried them off, and put those tending them to the sword, and I alone have escaped to tell you.” 18 While he was yet speaking, another came and said, “Your sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in the house of their eldest brother, 19 when suddenly a great wind came across the desert and smote the four corners of the house. It fell upon the young people and they are dead; and I alone have escaped to tell you.” 20 Then Job began to tear his cloak and cut off his hair. He cast himself prostrate upon the ground, 21 and said, “Naked I came forth from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I go back again. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord!” 22 In all this, Job did not sin nor did he say anything disrespectful of God.

P S A LM 

Psalm 17:1, 2-3, 6-7 (or Psalm 131:1, 2, 3)

R: Incline your ear to me and hear my word.

1 Hear, O Lord, a just suit; attend to my outcry; hearken to my prayer from lips without deceit. (R) 2 From you let my judgment come; your eyes behold what is right. 3 Though you test my heart, searching it in the night, though you try me with fire, you shall find no malice in me. (R) 6 I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God; incline your ear to me; hear my word. 7 Show your wondrous mercies, O savior of those who flee from their foes to refuge at your right hand. (R)

GOSPEL 

True greatness is measured by living a humble life. A humble person will give credit where credit is due, and in the case of our faith, that is a hundred percent to God. Only God saves; we cannot earn salvation and we certainly cannot achieve it on our own.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION 

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

Luke 9:46-50 (or Matthew 18:1-4)

46 An argument arose among the disciples about who among them was the greatest. 47 Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child and placed it by his side 48 and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest.” 49 Then John said in reply, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our company.” 50 Jesus said to him, “Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”

Daily Readings for September 30, 2018

1st READING

God is generous in apportioning His grace. Even though Medad and Eldad were not at the meeting, God still pours out His Spirit upon them. There is no place for jealousy in a disciple’s life. It is the root of many sins, especially the refusal to rejoice in God’s generosity to others.

Numbers 11:25-29 (or Zechariah 2:5-9, 14-15)

25 The Lord came down in the cloud and spoke to Moses. Taking some of the spirit that was on Moses, the Lord bestowed it on the seventy elders; and as the spirit came to rest on them, they prophesied. 26 Now two men — one named Eldad and the other Medad — were not in the gathering but had been left in the camp. They too had been on the list, but had not gone out to the tent; yet the spirit came to rest on them also, and they prophesied in the camp. 27 So, when a young man quickly told Moses, “Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp,” 28 Joshua, son of Nun, who from his youth had been Moses’ aide, said, “Moses, my lord, stop them.” 29 But Moses answered him, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the people of the Lord were prophets! Would that the Lord might bestow his spirit on them all!”

P S A L M 

Psalm 19:8, 10, 12-13, 14

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) 9 [10] The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are true, all of them just. (R) 11 [12] Though your servant is careful of them, very diligent in keeping them, 12 [13] yet who can detect failings? Cleanse me from my unknown faults! (R) 13 [14] From wanton sin especially, restrain your servant; let it not rule over me. Then shall I be blameless and innocent of serious sin. (R)

2nd READING 

James warns that only fools store up their treasures on earth; the smart ones store them up in heaven. The wealthy need to pay particular attention to this, as they are more likely to focus on the things of the world. James also reminds us that the love of money is the root of all evil.

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.

GOSPEL 

How far are we willing to go in order to avoid sin? Let us do everything we can to avoid sin. We need to take sin seriously and banish it from our lives. People do the extraordinary to get fit or lose weight, so the demands of a sinless life should not be that extraordinary.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48 (or Luke 9:43-45)

38 At that time, 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. 41 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.’”

Daily Readings for September 29, 2018

1st READING

When we speak about the angels and their roles in the work of salvation, we identify them according to what their names mean – Gabriel (messenger); Raphael (healer), and Michael (protector, he is made “like God”). The Church honors the archangels today (and on October 2). Let us be sensitive to their movements in our lives.

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, O 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

Relationships that last are founded on true encounters. Jesus suggests this when He challenges Nathaniel’s response about seeing him under the fig tree. He promises Nathaniel that there is more to this — he will encounter God in far more concrete ways. Let us pray for regular encounters with Jesus that will help to build our faith in Him.

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, 2018

1st READING

There is a time for all things. However, it is important to discern what to do — this makes all the difference. Discernment helps make major decisions in life. But we need to avoid rushing into decisions. Let us reflect and contemplate on how the hand of God is at work in us, and how we can cooperate with Him.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-11

1 There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens. 2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to uproot the plant. 3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to tear down, and a time to build. 4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance. 5 A time to scatter stones, and a time to gather them; a time to embrace, and a time to be far from embraces. 6 A time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away. 7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to be silent, and a time to speak.8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. 9 What advantage has the worker from his toil? 10 I have considered the task that God has appointed for the sons of men to be busied about. 11 He has made everything appropriate to its time, and has put the timeless into their hearts, without man’s ever discovering, from beginning to end, the work which God has done.

P S A L M 

Psalm 144:1, 2, 3-4

R: Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!

1 Blessed be the Lord, my rock, 2 my mercy and my fortress, my stronghold, my deliverer, my shield, in whom I trust. (R) 3 Lord, what is man, that you notice him; the son of man, that you take thought of him? 4 Man is like a breath; his days, like a passing shadow. (R)

GOSPEL 

Peter answers well. He believes that Jesus is the Christ. However, Jesus takes this opportunity to teach the Apostles that their expectations for the Christ will not be met by talking about His future suffering and death. The Apostles do not seem to understand what Jesus is saying — the image of a suffering Messiah is not a part of their wildest imagination.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

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

Luke 9:18-22

18 Once when Jesus was praying in solitude, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 They said in reply, “John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, ‘One of the ancient prophets has arisen.’” 20 Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said in reply, “The Christ of God.” 21 He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone. 22 He said, “The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”

Daily Readings for September 27, 2018

1st READING

The phrase “vanity of vanities” reminds us to focus on the things that matter. We are often distracted by the pleasures, comforts, and glory of the world that we lose sight of the only thing that does matter — growing as disciples of Jesus Christ. People waste much time attending to the various vanities of life. Let us do our best to focus on what matters.

Ecclesiastes 1:2-11

2 Vanity of vanities, says Qoheleth, vanity of vanities! All things are vanity! 3 What profit has man from all the labor which he toils at under the sun? 4 One generation passes and another comes, but the world forever stays. 5 The sun rises and the sun goes down; then it presses on to the place where it rises. 6 Blowing now toward the south, then toward the north, the wind turns again and again, resuming its rounds. 7 All rivers go to the sea, yet never does the sea become full. To the place where they go, the rivers keep on going. 8 All speech is labored; there is nothing one can say. The eye is not satisfied with seeing nor is the ear satisfied with hearing. 9 What has been, that will be; what has been done, that will be done. Nothing is new under the sun. 10 Even the thing of which we say, “See, this is new!” has already existed in the ages that preceded us. 11 There is no remembrance of the men of old; nor of those to come will there be any remembrance among those who come after them.

P S A L M 

Psalm 90:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14, 17

R: In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

3 You turn man back to dust, saying, “Return, O children of men.” 4 For a thousand years in your sight are as yesterday, now that it is past, or as a watch of the night. (R) 5 You make an end of them in their sleep; the next morning they are like the changing grass, 6 which at dawn springs up anew, but by evening wilts and fades. (R) 12 Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart. 13 Return, O Lord! How long? Have pity on your servants! (R) 14 Fill us at daybreak with your kindness, that we may shout for joy and gladness all our days. 17 Prosper the work of our hands for us! Prosper the work of our hands! (R)

GOSPEL 

Why does Herod want to “see” Jesus? It is like someone who is curious and wants to catch a glimpse of a rich or famous personality, rather than one who desires to enter into a relationship with the person they want to “see.” We must avoid this “spectator faith” and recognize that true faith is about having a relationship with Jesus, our Savior and Lord. 

 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 26, 2018

1st READING

Falsehood and lying can destroy the trust in a relationship. Lying can end a mentoring relationship. There is nothing a mentor can do to help someone in formation who is dishonest. Let us honor and value the truth in all of our relationships.

Proverbs 30:5-9

5 Every word of God is tested; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. 6 Add nothing to his words, lest he reprove you, and you be exposed as a deceiver. 7 Two things I ask of you, deny them not to me before I die. 8 Put falsehood and lying far from me, give me neither poverty nor riches; provide me only with the food I need. 9 Lest, being full, I deny you, saying, “Who is the Lord?” Or, being in want, I steal, and profane the name of my God.

P SA L M 

Psalm 119:29, 72, 89, 101, 104, 163

R: Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet.

29 Remove from me the way of falsehood, and favor me with your law. (R) 72 The law of your mouth is to me more precious than thousands of gold and silver pieces. (R) 89 Your word, O Lord, endures forever; it is firm as the heavens. (R) 101 From every evil way I withhold my feet, that I may keep your words. (R) 104 Through your precepts I gain discernment; therefore I hate every false way. (R) 163 Falsehood I hate and abhor; your law I love. (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus teaches us that signs and wonders always accompany the proclamation of the Gospel. Let us pray for and expect these when we preach the Good News. Signs and wonders draw a crowd and convince them that the Gospel is true. It is challenging to speak about the Gospel in today’s world, and God’s miracles will help us do our mission.

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 25, 2018

1st READING

It is harder to do what is right than to offer a sacrifice for our sins. God teaches us in today’s reading that we must focus on doing the right things rather than look for ways to correct our mistakes. Reflection helps us to remember the truth and apply it to the difficult moral choices we will face.

Proverbs 21:1-6, 10-13

1 Like a stream is the king’s heart in the hand of the Lord; wherever it pleases him, he directs it. 2 All the ways of a man may be right in his own eyes, but it is the Lord who proves hearts. 3 To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice. 4 Haughty eyes and a proud heart — the tillage of the wicked is sin. 5 The plans of the diligent are sure of profit, but all rash haste leads certainly to poverty. 6 Whoever makes a fortune by a lying tongue is chasing a bubble over deadly snares. 10 The soul of the wicked man desires evil; his neighbor finds no pity in his eyes. 11 When the arrogant man is punished, the simple are the wiser; when the wise man is instructed, he gains knowledge. 12 The just man appraises the house of the wicked; there is one who brings down the wicked to ruin. 13 He who shuts his ear to the cry of the poor will himself also call and not be heard.

P S A L M 

Psalm 119:1, 27, 30, 34, 35, 44

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

1 Blessed are they whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord. (R) 27 Make me understand the way of your precepts, and I will meditate on your wondrous deeds. (R) 30 The way of truth I have chosen; I have set your ordinances before me. (R) 34 Give me discernment, that I may observe your law and keep it with all my heart. (R) 35 Lead me in the path of your commands, for in it I delight. (R) 44 And I will keep your law continually, forever and ever. (R)

GOSPEL 

Jesus is more concerned about whether or not we listen to and follow His will. He reminds us what we need to focus on — listening to God’s Word and discerning His will in prayer. Prayer is difficult to do at times, but with God’s grace it can be done. Let us discover His will and obey it.

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 24, 2018

1st READING

Today’s reading reminds us to do good while we can and not delay, for we may not get another opportunity. A materialistic and hedonist person seeks earthly rewards in the here and now; the rewards of a virtuous life are in heaven. The saints derive satisfaction from doing the right thing — like them, may we also find consolation in doing good.

Proverbs 3:27-34

28 [27] Refuse no one the good on which he has a claim when it is in your power to do it for him. 29 [28] Say not to your neighbor, “Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give,” when you can give at once. 30 [29] Plot no evil against your neighbor, against one who lives at peace with you. 31 [30] Quarrel not with a man without cause, with one who has done you no harm. 32 [31] Envy not the lawless man and choose none of his ways. 33 [32] To the Lord the perverse one is an abomination, but with the upright is his friendship. 34 [33] The curse of the Lord is on the house of the wicked, but the dwelling of the just he blesses. 35 [34] When dealing with the arrogant, he is stern, but to the humble he shows kindness.

P S A L M 

Psalm 15:2-3, 3-4, 5

R: The just one shall live on your holy mountain, O Lord.

2 He who walks blamelessly and does justice; who thinks the truth in his heart 3 and slanders not with his tongue. (R) Who harms not his fellow man, nor takes up a reproach against his neighbor; 4 by whom the reprobate is despised, while he honors those who fear the Lord. (R) 5 Who lends not his money at usury and accepts no bribe against the innocent. He who does these things shall never be disturbed. (R)

GOSPEL 

Those who have been transformed by the Gospel desire to share the Good News of salvation with others. Jesus tells us that having been touched by the Gospel compels us to share it, so that other people may also be touched by its message. Let’s commit to live out the Gospel teachings and allow it to change us for the better.

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 23, 2018

1st READING

This text from the Old Testament is sometimes used to explain the suffering of Jesus. It is hard to associate wisdom with suffering but once you reflect on it, you will see the connection. Commitment to the truth means standing against prevailing trends and becoming unpopular. Are we willing to stand by the truth of the Gospel?

Wisdom 2:12, 17-20

12 The wicked say: Let us beset the just one, because he is obnoxious to us; he sets himself against our doings, reproaches us for transgressions of the law and charges us with violations of our training. 17 Let us see whether his words be true; let us find out what will happen to him. 18 For if the just one be the Son of God, God will defend him and deliver him from the hand of his foes. 19 With revilement and torture let us put him to the test that we may have proof of his gentleness and try his patience. 20 Let us condemn him to a shameful death; for according to his own words, God will take care of him.

P S A L M

Psalm 54:3-4, 5, 6, 8

R: The Lord upholds my life.

1 [3] O God, by your name save me, and by your might defend my cause. 2 [4] O God, hear my prayer; hearken to the words of my mouth. (R) 3 [5] For the haughty men have risen up against me, the ruthless seek my life; they set not God before their eyes. (R) 4 [6] Behold, God is my helper; the Lord sustains my life. 6 [8] Freely will I offer you sacrifice; I will praise your name, O Lord, for its goodness. (R)

2ND READING 

James reminds us to keep our passions in check. When they are out of control, sin runs riot. We need to be watchful of our passions because they tend to overpower our genuine desires and lead us astray. James invites us to reflect on how wars happen, why envy and murderous thoughts so often plague our minds. Sadly, we let our passions get the better of us and this leads to conflict.

James 3:16-4:3

16 Beloved: 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. 4:1 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.

GOSPEL 

No matter how great we may be in this world, our greatness pales in comparison with that of Jesus. In today’s Gospel, we see the disciples argue about bragging rights among them. Do we also seek the same thing in our ministries? Let us outdo one another in love, and leave the question of greatness in God’s hands.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

God has called us through the Gospel to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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 September 22, 2018

1st READING 

God’s final gift to us is the resurrection of the body. We receive this gift as we enter heaven for all eternity. Nothing can change our destiny. This life transformation from mortal to immortal is possible by God’s power. It is His grace that brings us salvation.

1 Corinthians 15:35-37, 42-49

35 Brothers and sisters: Someone may say, “How are the dead raised? With what kind of body will they come back?” 36 You fool! What you sow is not brought to life unless it dies. 37 And what you sow is not the body that is to be but a bare kernel of wheat, perhaps, or of some other kind. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown corruptible; it is raised incorruptible. 43 It is sown dishonorable; it is raised glorious. It is sown weak; it is raised powerful. 44 It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual one. 45 So, too, it is written, The first man, Adam, became a living being, the last Adam a life-giving spirit. 46 But the spiritual was not first; rather the natural and then the spiritual. 47 The first man was from the earth, earthly; the second man, from heaven. 48 As was the earthly one, so also are the earthly, and as is the heavenly one, so also are the heavenly. 49 Just as we have borne the image of the earthly one, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly one.

P S A L M 

Psalm 56:10-12, 13-14

R: I will walk in the presence of God, in the light of the living.

9 [10] Now I know that God is with me. 10 [11] In God, in whose promise I glory, 11 [12] in God I trust without fear; what can flesh do against me? (R) 12 [13] I am bound, O God, by vows to you; your thank offerings I will fullfill. 13 [14] For you have rescued me from death, my feet, too, from stumbling; that I may walk before God in the light of the living. (R)

GOSPEL

Don’t worry; be happy! This sentiment tells us not to allow the troubles of life to choke us and hinder the work of God in us. No matter how hard it gets to follow Jesus, we need to trust that we are in God’s hands and that He will see us through it by His grace. God’s grace is our insurance against the choking nature of sin.

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 21, 2018

Feast of St. Matthew, Apostle

1st READING

Let us be grateful to the people who wrote the Scriptures and formed them into the canon that we have today. Without the Scriptures, it would be difficult to know the riches and mercy of God’s love. In the Scriptures we have a source of revelation of God’s nature and character, and His desire to be in relationship with us.

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 

As a tax collector and collaborator with the Romans, Matthew is something of an outcast and pariah with his own people. That Jesus calls him and he becomes one of His disciples is proof that the Gospel He proclaims is for everyone and not just an elite few. Let us remember that the Gospel is for everyone as we share it with others.

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, 2018

1st READING 

Paul is proud of his efforts in proclaiming the Gospel. He has been tireless in its service. He knows grace is essential for the work of salvation and that all he has achieved is through God’s grace at work in his life. Paul gave his life in the service of the Gospel. Let his commitment inspire us to follow and proclaim Jesus no matter what our situation in life may be.

1 Corinthians 15:1-11

1 I am reminding you, brothers and sisters, of the Gospel I preached to you, which you indeed received and in which you also stand. 2 Through it you are also being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you, unless you believed in vain. 3 For I handed on to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures; 4 that he was buried; that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures; 5 that he appeared to Cephas, then to the Twelve. 6 After that, he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at once, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. 7 After that he appeared to James, then to all the Apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one born abnormally, he appeared to me. 9 For I am the least of the Apostles, not t to be called an Apostle, because I persecuted the Church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me has not been ineffective. Indeed, I have toiled harder than all of them; not I, however, but the grace of God that is with me. 11 Therefore, whether it be I or they, so we preach and so you believed.

P S A L M 

Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 28

R: Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.

1 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his mercy endures forever. 2 Let the house of Israel say, “His mercy endures forever.” (R) 16 The right hand of the Lord is exalted; the right hand of the Lord has struck with power. 17 I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord. (R) 28 You are my God, and I give thanks to you; O my God, I extol you. (R)

GOSPEL

We will have opportunities to show love and mercy to others. Jesus affirms in today’s parable that the greater the mercy shown, the greater will be the appreciation of the recipient of mercy. Let us outdo one another in showing love and mercy so that the mercy and love of God will abound evermore.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest, says the Lord.

Luke 7:36-50

36 A certain Pharisee invited Jesus to dine with him, and he entered the Pharisee’s house and reclined at table. 37 Now there was a sinful woman in the city who learned that he was at table in the house of the Pharisee. Bringing an alabaster flask of ointment, 38 she stood behind him at his feet weeping and began to bathe his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them, and anointed them with the ointment. 39 When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, that she is a sinner.” 40 Jesus said to him in reply, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” “Tell me, teacher,” he said. 41 “Two people were in debt to a certain creditor; one owed five hundred days’ wages and the other owed fifty. 42 Since they were unable to repay the debt, he forgave it for both. Which of them will love him more?” 43 Simon said in reply, “The one, I suppose, whose larger debt was forgiven.” He said to him, “You have judged rightly.” 44 Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? When I entered your house, you did not give me water for my feet, but she has bathed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45 You did not give me a kiss, but she has not ceased kissing my feet since the time I entered. 46 You did not anoint my head with oil, but she anointed my feet with ointment. 47 So I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; hence, she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little.” 48 He said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 The others at table said to themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” 50 But he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

Daily Readings for September 19, 2018

1st READING

Today’s reading is Paul’s magnificent elegy to love. He describes love as a decision and not a feeling. The language we often use for love is rooted in our feelings. We have to be careful because our feelings could overwhelm our love. Love is a decision we have to make, regardless of how we feel.

1 Corinthians 12:31–13:13

31 Brothers and sisters: Strive eagerly for the greatest spiritual gifts. But I shall show you a still more excellent way. 13:1 If I speak in human and angelic tongues but do not have love, I am a resounding gong or a clashing cymbal. 2 And if I have the gift of prophecy and comprehend all mysteries and all knowledge; if I have all faith so as to move mountains but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give away everything I own, and if I hand my body over so that I may boast but do not have love, I gain nothing. 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, love is not pompous, it is not inflated, 5 it is not rude, it does not seek its own interests, it is not quick-tempered, it does not brood over injury, 6 it does not rejoice over wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. 7 It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never fails. If there are prophecies, they will be brought to nothing; if tongues, they will cease; if knowledge, it will be brought to nothing. 9 For we know partially and we prophesy partially, 10 but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away. 11 When I was a child, I used to talk as a child, think as a child, reason as a child; when I became a man, I put aside childish things. 12 At present we see indistinctly, as in a mirror, but then face to face. At present I know partially; then I shall know fully, as I am fully known. 13 So faith, hope, love remain, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

P S A L M 

Psalm 33:2-3, 4-5, 12, 22

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

2 Give thanks to the Lord on the harp; with the ten-stringed lyre chant his praises. 3 Sing to him a new song; pluck the strings skillfully with shouts of gladness. (R) 4 For 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) 12 Blessed the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he has chosen for his own inheritance. 22 May your kindness, O Lord, be upon us who have put our hope in you. (R) 

GOSPEL  

We need more than feelings as motivation for discipleship. Discipleship involves hardship and suffering and we need to persevere even to the point of death. Our feelings are unreliable as a guide to the truth. Let us keep our minds and hearts fixed on the love of God as we follow His call. May we focus on Him and not be led astray by our feelings that seek comfort and consolation, rather than obedience to His will.

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 18, 2018

1st READING

We have no reason to be jealous of the gifts of others because there are many gifts of the Holy Spirit. Paul reminds us that different gifts are needed for the ministries in the Church. We have a part to play in God’s plan. Let us be grateful for the gifts we have been given and be faithful in using them to serve the Gospel.

1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 27-31

12 Brothers and sisters: 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. 14 Now the body is not a single part, but many. 27 Now you are Christ’s Body, and individually parts of it. 28 Some people God has designated in the Church to be, first, Apostles; second, prophets; third, teachers; then, mighty deeds; then, gifts of healing, assistance, administration, and varieties of tongues. 29 Are all Apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work mighty deeds? 30 Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? 31 Strive eagerly for the greatest spiritual gifts.

P S A L M 

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

R: We are his people: the sheep of his flock.

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 

It is tragic for a widow to lose her only son who will care for her in her old age. Today’s healing is similar to miracles worked by both Elijah and Elisha. It places Jesus in Israel’s prophetic tradition. This truth is evident to any Jew. As Christians, we know that Jesus fulfills the Law and draws together these two traditions in the Gospel He preaches. We see in Jesus the fulfillment of God’s promises to the Jews through Abraham.

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.