Readings for Thursday December 17, 2009
First Reading: Genesis 49:2, 8-10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 72
Gospel: Matthew 1:1-17
Thus the total number of generations from Abraham to David is fourteen generations; from David to the Babylonian exile, fourteen generations; from the Babylonian exile to the Christ, fourteen generations. (Mt 1:17)
In today's gospel we read the genealogy of Jesus going all the way back to Abraham. The writer Matthew starts his gospel by showing that Jesus has the family history to be the Messiah. It is interesting how Matthew does this first, before even going into the life, death and resurrection of Christ; the first thing that he does is show the credibility of Christ. It is my understanding that family genealogy and history were important at that time, so it would make since that Matthew would include this in the beginning. Sometimes, even today, people want to know your background before they even open themselves up to you now; I imagine this concept was especially true of Matthew's time.
Many of us may skip over or breeze through reading this passage of the bible, I mean after all who just wants to read through a bunch of names, how is that going to help us? I used to feel that same way, but as I was going through a bible study last year and going over some of these sections which just listed name after name, I realized a few things: 1) It is important to know where we have been before we can know where we are going; 2) Each person in this world has a purpose; and 3) Going through the names/history is what helps us see how God's plan unfolded since the beginning. It is this last point that believe that we can draw a great deal of wisdom from. As we read through those names it is important to realize that between those generations there was a lot of time that had gone on and even many periods where people just lost hope; but even throughout all of the time and the tragedies, God still had a plan. Each day, each year, and each generation was one step closer to reaching the pinnacle of that plan ... the birth of the Messiah.
This advent season, let us remember and reflect on the fact that like God had a plan for His people throughout history, and He especially had a plan for those who were listed in the genealogy of Jesus. It is important for us to remember and trust that God has a plan for us as well, and even though we may not understand or completely see the big picture it is important to trust God who sees all things and can see the big picture in our lives and in the world.
Father above, we thank you and give you praise for the gift of this day. Lord, we thank you so much for all that you have given and all that you do. Lord, help us this advent season to grow in love and trust in you. We pray for all of our soldiers overseas who are away from their families right now, may they stay safe and return all for your glory. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
12.17.2009
12.16.2009
Surpassing expectations
Readings for Wednesday December 16, 2009
First Reading: Isaiah 45:6-8, 18, 21-25
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 85
Gospel: Luke 7:18-23
At that time, John summoned two of his disciples and sent them to the Lord to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” When the men came to the Lord, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to you to ask, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?’” At that time Jesus cured many of their diseases, sufferings, and evil spirits; he also granted sight to many who were blind. And Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.” (Lk 7:18-23)
Have you ever gone out to eat at a new restaurant with high expectations, and then after the meal you are just a little let down? It turns out that the meal just wasn't what you had in mind and that it just didn't meet the high expectations that you had originally had. Most of us have expectations about people and things, and there are times in life when the things that we had expectations about just don't meet those original ideas. This same scenario happened to John the Baptist.
In the gospels today, we read how after hearing about the things that Jesus was doing, and how he just wasn't quite sure if Jesus was the Messiah or not. It wasn't that He really doubted that Jesus was the Son of God, it was just that His tactics weren't what John had expected. John, like many people of the past had probably expected a kingly warrior type who would drive off the Romans and correct all the wrongs that were going on at the time. John just didn't understand why there wasn't a battle going on, or why there weren't any governments being overthrown. As it turns out, Jesus just wasn't what John expected. But like so many times in life, God has a plan that is beyond our expectations. John just did not know God's plan, He didn't understand how Christ came to preach forgiveness, heal people and to bring hope into this world. Christ did not come to destroy anything, but rather to build up. He came to give people a way to heaven, through His life, death and resurrection.
The fact is that we will never fully understand God's ways and His plans, all that we can do is trust in Him and to realize that His plans will always surpass our expectations.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, we praise you for all that we have and all that we are able to do. Help us to be good stewards of all the gifts that you bring us and to trust in your will for us. Lord, we pray for all of our priests and religious, in their ministries and in their vows. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
First Reading: Isaiah 45:6-8, 18, 21-25
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 85
Gospel: Luke 7:18-23
At that time, John summoned two of his disciples and sent them to the Lord to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” When the men came to the Lord, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to you to ask, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?’” At that time Jesus cured many of their diseases, sufferings, and evil spirits; he also granted sight to many who were blind. And Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.” (Lk 7:18-23)
Have you ever gone out to eat at a new restaurant with high expectations, and then after the meal you are just a little let down? It turns out that the meal just wasn't what you had in mind and that it just didn't meet the high expectations that you had originally had. Most of us have expectations about people and things, and there are times in life when the things that we had expectations about just don't meet those original ideas. This same scenario happened to John the Baptist.
In the gospels today, we read how after hearing about the things that Jesus was doing, and how he just wasn't quite sure if Jesus was the Messiah or not. It wasn't that He really doubted that Jesus was the Son of God, it was just that His tactics weren't what John had expected. John, like many people of the past had probably expected a kingly warrior type who would drive off the Romans and correct all the wrongs that were going on at the time. John just didn't understand why there wasn't a battle going on, or why there weren't any governments being overthrown. As it turns out, Jesus just wasn't what John expected. But like so many times in life, God has a plan that is beyond our expectations. John just did not know God's plan, He didn't understand how Christ came to preach forgiveness, heal people and to bring hope into this world. Christ did not come to destroy anything, but rather to build up. He came to give people a way to heaven, through His life, death and resurrection.
The fact is that we will never fully understand God's ways and His plans, all that we can do is trust in Him and to realize that His plans will always surpass our expectations.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, we praise you for all that we have and all that we are able to do. Help us to be good stewards of all the gifts that you bring us and to trust in your will for us. Lord, we pray for all of our priests and religious, in their ministries and in their vows. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
12.15.2009
Obedience over Attitude
Readings for Tuesday December 15, 2009
First Reading: Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 34
Gospel: Matthew 21:28-32
Jesus said to the chief priests and the elders of the people: “What is your opinion? A man had two sons. He came to the first and said, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ The son said in reply, ‘I will not,’ but afterwards he changed his mind and went. The man came to the other son and gave the same order. He said in reply, ‘Yes, sir,’ but did not go. Which of the two did his father’s will?” They answered, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the Kingdom of God before you. When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did. Yet even when you saw that, you did not later change your minds and believe him.” (Mt 21:28-32)
"NO!" When dealing with children, this is a word that we rarely tolerate. My daughter is only 9 months right now, but I do realize that the day will be coming soon when she will firmly plant her feet, look me in the eye and confidently say "NO" after being told to do something. I pray for when that day does come that the Lord will give me the patience that I need to not fly off the handle. But regardless of what her words are, the important things is that when she is asked to do something that she follows through with it. It is not as important if she is excited about doing it or not, but rather that she is obedient to me as a parent. Attitude can be worked on, much easier than obedience. For true obedience comes from love and respect.
When we feel that the Lord is calling us to do something, we may not be initially thrilled about it, and we may even vocalize that unwillingness to cooperate; but regardless of what our attitude is, it is important to always be obedient to God's will in our lives. In the gospel today, the first son had a bad attitude but was still obedient; and the second son had a wonderful attitude, but was not obedient. Which is better in God's eyes?
In our life, we cannot simply be someone who is cheery and talks a good game, but rather it is more important that we are obedient in all matters ... no matter how much grumbling we may do.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, thank you for all that you have given to us, and to all that you call us to. Lord, help us to surrender all our own desires and wants and conform our will to yours. Lord, we pray for all those in need of conversion and all those who do not have hope in this world, may they find it in you. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
First Reading: Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 34
Gospel: Matthew 21:28-32
Jesus said to the chief priests and the elders of the people: “What is your opinion? A man had two sons. He came to the first and said, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ The son said in reply, ‘I will not,’ but afterwards he changed his mind and went. The man came to the other son and gave the same order. He said in reply, ‘Yes, sir,’ but did not go. Which of the two did his father’s will?” They answered, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the Kingdom of God before you. When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did. Yet even when you saw that, you did not later change your minds and believe him.” (Mt 21:28-32)
"NO!" When dealing with children, this is a word that we rarely tolerate. My daughter is only 9 months right now, but I do realize that the day will be coming soon when she will firmly plant her feet, look me in the eye and confidently say "NO" after being told to do something. I pray for when that day does come that the Lord will give me the patience that I need to not fly off the handle. But regardless of what her words are, the important things is that when she is asked to do something that she follows through with it. It is not as important if she is excited about doing it or not, but rather that she is obedient to me as a parent. Attitude can be worked on, much easier than obedience. For true obedience comes from love and respect.
When we feel that the Lord is calling us to do something, we may not be initially thrilled about it, and we may even vocalize that unwillingness to cooperate; but regardless of what our attitude is, it is important to always be obedient to God's will in our lives. In the gospel today, the first son had a bad attitude but was still obedient; and the second son had a wonderful attitude, but was not obedient. Which is better in God's eyes?
In our life, we cannot simply be someone who is cheery and talks a good game, but rather it is more important that we are obedient in all matters ... no matter how much grumbling we may do.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, thank you for all that you have given to us, and to all that you call us to. Lord, help us to surrender all our own desires and wants and conform our will to yours. Lord, we pray for all those in need of conversion and all those who do not have hope in this world, may they find it in you. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
12.14.2009
Heart of a Learner
Readings for Monday December 14, 2009
Memorial of Saint John of the Cross, priest and doctor of the Church
First Reading: Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 25
Gospel: Matthew 21:23-27
When Jesus had come into the temple area, the chief priests and the elders of the people approached him as he was teaching and said, “By what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you this authority?” Jesus said to them in reply, “I shall ask you one question, and if you answer it for me, then I shall tell you by what authority I do these things. Where was John’s baptism from? Was it of heavenly or of human origin?” They discussed this among themselves and said, “If we say ‘Of heavenly origin,’ he will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ we fear the crowd, for they all regard John as a prophet.” So they said to Jesus in reply, “We do not know.” He himself said to them, “Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things.” (Mt 21:23-27)
Isn't it amazing how God just doesn't swoop in and fix all of our problems and answer all of our questions, but rather helps us work out situations and helps us to find the right answers in His time? As frustrating as it is sometimes, I am glad that God doesn't just give me the answers to my problems, but He rather patiently takes me through the answer with prayer. I know when I am facing a difficult decision, and I take it to prayer God slowly begins to unravel the answer and helps me see it the way I should see it. By helping me work through a problem, I grow a lot more, much more than the times when I just make a quick decision based on what I think is best or what I want.
I find it amazing that in today's gospel, Jesus was trying to help the religious leaders find the correct answer by asking them a question. But by their response, it is clear that they are not interested in the truth, and they are not interested in learning what God has to teach them, for their response is purely a political one, and not one of those who are seeking the truth. Had they answered that John's baptism is of heavenly origin, (which it is clear that they knew, but just didn't want to look foolish) then that would have been a teachable moment for them. Jesus could have went on to tell them that all things come from God, and that the same origin of John's baptism is also the origin of His authority ... our Heavenly Father. But sadly this is not how the religious leaders responded to Jesus, and by not responding with humility and the heart of a learner, they were denied the answer and God's truth.
Jesus has something to teach each day, how will you respond to Him? I pray that each one of us is willing to humble ourselves and to take on the heart of a learner, instead of a hardened heart that is unwilling to listen.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, please increase our faith and our hope in you so that we will humble ourselves as your children. Lord, help us to do your will in this life and to be the people that you created us to be. We pray for all those in need of conversion and all those who are suffering in this world. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Memorial of Saint John of the Cross, priest and doctor of the Church
First Reading: Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 25
Gospel: Matthew 21:23-27
When Jesus had come into the temple area, the chief priests and the elders of the people approached him as he was teaching and said, “By what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you this authority?” Jesus said to them in reply, “I shall ask you one question, and if you answer it for me, then I shall tell you by what authority I do these things. Where was John’s baptism from? Was it of heavenly or of human origin?” They discussed this among themselves and said, “If we say ‘Of heavenly origin,’ he will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ we fear the crowd, for they all regard John as a prophet.” So they said to Jesus in reply, “We do not know.” He himself said to them, “Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things.” (Mt 21:23-27)
Isn't it amazing how God just doesn't swoop in and fix all of our problems and answer all of our questions, but rather helps us work out situations and helps us to find the right answers in His time? As frustrating as it is sometimes, I am glad that God doesn't just give me the answers to my problems, but He rather patiently takes me through the answer with prayer. I know when I am facing a difficult decision, and I take it to prayer God slowly begins to unravel the answer and helps me see it the way I should see it. By helping me work through a problem, I grow a lot more, much more than the times when I just make a quick decision based on what I think is best or what I want.
I find it amazing that in today's gospel, Jesus was trying to help the religious leaders find the correct answer by asking them a question. But by their response, it is clear that they are not interested in the truth, and they are not interested in learning what God has to teach them, for their response is purely a political one, and not one of those who are seeking the truth. Had they answered that John's baptism is of heavenly origin, (which it is clear that they knew, but just didn't want to look foolish) then that would have been a teachable moment for them. Jesus could have went on to tell them that all things come from God, and that the same origin of John's baptism is also the origin of His authority ... our Heavenly Father. But sadly this is not how the religious leaders responded to Jesus, and by not responding with humility and the heart of a learner, they were denied the answer and God's truth.
Jesus has something to teach each day, how will you respond to Him? I pray that each one of us is willing to humble ourselves and to take on the heart of a learner, instead of a hardened heart that is unwilling to listen.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, please increase our faith and our hope in you so that we will humble ourselves as your children. Lord, help us to do your will in this life and to be the people that you created us to be. We pray for all those in need of conversion and all those who are suffering in this world. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
12.12.2009
Crossing the Goal Playbook
Catholic Book Review: Crossing the Goal: Playbook on the VIRTUES
By Danny Abramowicz, Peter Herbeck, Brian Patrick, and Curtis Martin
Last year I had the honor of attending a men's conference in Columbus, Ohio which was not like your typical men's conference. At this conference instead of just hearing the speakers, we actually got to witness and be a part of a live taping of EWTN's "Crossing the Goal." This is a show on EWTN for men, which has a "sportscenter" feel to it. It is interesting how at first glance this show looks as if it could be on ESPN, but instead of being a show for men about sports, it is a show for men about faith. The team of men that leads this show are: Danny Abramowicz, Peter Herbeck, Brian Patrick, and Curtis Martin. Danny is a former NFL receiver and NFL coach; Peter is VP and Director of Missions for Renewal Ministries; Brian Patrick is host of the Son Rise morning show on various catholic radio stations; and Curtis is President and Founder of FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students). The show takes on topics and issues facing men today, and gives great thoughts and practical advice for help in overcoming these issues.
I had the privilege of recently reading one of their supplemental workbooks ("Crossing the Goal: Playbook on the VIRTUES), which are designed to help reinforce some of the messages that go along with the show. It is not necessary for someone to watch the show in order to gain something from the book, as I do not watch the show myself (don't have cable or satellite; however I would certainly watch the show if I could). Now, even though I am not a regular viewer, I still found this book to be very thought provoking and valuable. I think that its beauty and strength is in its simplicity. The concepts are not deep theological theories, but rather realistic and practical. The writers clearly define and illustrate each virtue and discuss issues that threaten a man's ability to live out that particular virtue. Each chapter ends with a "coaching tip" which provides simple and practical advice for living out that virtue and growing in your relationship with the Lord. The book contains a chapter and discussion of each of the following virtues: Courage, Perseverance, Temperance, Wisdom, Justice, Faith, Hope, and Love.
I found that this book providing me with a greater understanding of each of the virtues and also got me thinking about many areas in my own life where I could use more help and do a better job living a life of virtue. I think that this book is perfect for anyone who is wishing to begin looking at the virtues and applying them in their own life. This book can be used by an individual or as part of a men's group. Having read this book, I can see how it would have great value in a men's group, as I believe the the topics discussed in this book could lead to great discussions among men. However you use this book, when working through it, it is important to ask the Holy Spirit to show you His truth and how you can apply these virtues in your own life.
The team at crossing the goal has done a fantastic job with this book, and I would strongly recommend this book to any man wishing to grow in his faith and to be the kind of man that God created him to be. Whether you watch the show or not, this book is another tool that can help you during this life, and it is another tool in this world which points to our ultimate destination ... heaven.
By Danny Abramowicz, Peter Herbeck, Brian Patrick, and Curtis Martin
Last year I had the honor of attending a men's conference in Columbus, Ohio which was not like your typical men's conference. At this conference instead of just hearing the speakers, we actually got to witness and be a part of a live taping of EWTN's "Crossing the Goal." This is a show on EWTN for men, which has a "sportscenter" feel to it. It is interesting how at first glance this show looks as if it could be on ESPN, but instead of being a show for men about sports, it is a show for men about faith. The team of men that leads this show are: Danny Abramowicz, Peter Herbeck, Brian Patrick, and Curtis Martin. Danny is a former NFL receiver and NFL coach; Peter is VP and Director of Missions for Renewal Ministries; Brian Patrick is host of the Son Rise morning show on various catholic radio stations; and Curtis is President and Founder of FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students). The show takes on topics and issues facing men today, and gives great thoughts and practical advice for help in overcoming these issues.
I had the privilege of recently reading one of their supplemental workbooks ("Crossing the Goal: Playbook on the VIRTUES), which are designed to help reinforce some of the messages that go along with the show. It is not necessary for someone to watch the show in order to gain something from the book, as I do not watch the show myself (don't have cable or satellite; however I would certainly watch the show if I could). Now, even though I am not a regular viewer, I still found this book to be very thought provoking and valuable. I think that its beauty and strength is in its simplicity. The concepts are not deep theological theories, but rather realistic and practical. The writers clearly define and illustrate each virtue and discuss issues that threaten a man's ability to live out that particular virtue. Each chapter ends with a "coaching tip" which provides simple and practical advice for living out that virtue and growing in your relationship with the Lord. The book contains a chapter and discussion of each of the following virtues: Courage, Perseverance, Temperance, Wisdom, Justice, Faith, Hope, and Love.
I found that this book providing me with a greater understanding of each of the virtues and also got me thinking about many areas in my own life where I could use more help and do a better job living a life of virtue. I think that this book is perfect for anyone who is wishing to begin looking at the virtues and applying them in their own life. This book can be used by an individual or as part of a men's group. Having read this book, I can see how it would have great value in a men's group, as I believe the the topics discussed in this book could lead to great discussions among men. However you use this book, when working through it, it is important to ask the Holy Spirit to show you His truth and how you can apply these virtues in your own life.
The team at crossing the goal has done a fantastic job with this book, and I would strongly recommend this book to any man wishing to grow in his faith and to be the kind of man that God created him to be. Whether you watch the show or not, this book is another tool that can help you during this life, and it is another tool in this world which points to our ultimate destination ... heaven.
**For more information about the Catholic Company or Crossing the Goal: Playbook on the VIRTUES please feel free to click on one of the links below.
12.11.2009
Labels
Readings for Friday December 9, 2009
First Reading: Isaiah 48:17-19
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 1
Gospel: Matthew 11:16-19
Jesus said to the crowds: “To what shall I compare this generation? It is like children who sit in marketplaces and call to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, but you did not dance, we sang a dirge but you did not mourn.’ For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they said, ‘He is possessed by a demon.’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking and they said, ‘Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is vindicated by her works.” (Mt 11:16-19)
Have you ever noticed how much we are into labeling things? And I am not talking about your grocery store items. I am talking about how much we label people based on their actions or beliefs; and it seems that once there is a label, it can be hard to shake once it's there. How many times have we heard someone talking about big government or universal healthcare and immediately label that person a liberal? Christians who spread the word are often labeled as "Jesus freaks" or zealots. A kid at school who doesn't have the latest and most popular shoe may be labeled as poor. People who decide to practice chastity before marriage are thought of as prudes.
It seems as though labeling was also popular in Jesus' day as well. We read in the gospel today that John the Baptist was labeled as possessed, and Jesus was labeled as a glutton and a drunkard. What we must remember is that we should not be concerned what the world labels us, but rather what God labels us. Would you rather have a high profile and prestigious label while here on earth, or a place in heaven? If we are trying to define ourselves and make a place for ourselves while here on earth, then that is a road that doesn't not lead to heaven. Rather if our first priority is doing God's will and trying to reach heaven, then that is a road that leads to the glorious reward.
We must remember that earthly labels come and go, and it is not what other people know us as, but our biggest concern should be how God labels us. If we do not have the label of God's good and faithful servants, then we are not doing the things that we should be.
Do not let the world define you, but rather let God make you into the person that you were created to be.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, thank you for all that you have given and all that you do. You are so good to us, and all that we have comes from you. Help us not to take this life for granted and may we always be seeking your will. Lord, we all need your help, we want to be with you in heaven, but we cannot make it there without you. Help us to persevere in this life until our time is done. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
First Reading: Isaiah 48:17-19
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 1
Gospel: Matthew 11:16-19
Jesus said to the crowds: “To what shall I compare this generation? It is like children who sit in marketplaces and call to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, but you did not dance, we sang a dirge but you did not mourn.’ For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they said, ‘He is possessed by a demon.’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking and they said, ‘Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is vindicated by her works.” (Mt 11:16-19)
Have you ever noticed how much we are into labeling things? And I am not talking about your grocery store items. I am talking about how much we label people based on their actions or beliefs; and it seems that once there is a label, it can be hard to shake once it's there. How many times have we heard someone talking about big government or universal healthcare and immediately label that person a liberal? Christians who spread the word are often labeled as "Jesus freaks" or zealots. A kid at school who doesn't have the latest and most popular shoe may be labeled as poor. People who decide to practice chastity before marriage are thought of as prudes.
It seems as though labeling was also popular in Jesus' day as well. We read in the gospel today that John the Baptist was labeled as possessed, and Jesus was labeled as a glutton and a drunkard. What we must remember is that we should not be concerned what the world labels us, but rather what God labels us. Would you rather have a high profile and prestigious label while here on earth, or a place in heaven? If we are trying to define ourselves and make a place for ourselves while here on earth, then that is a road that doesn't not lead to heaven. Rather if our first priority is doing God's will and trying to reach heaven, then that is a road that leads to the glorious reward.
We must remember that earthly labels come and go, and it is not what other people know us as, but our biggest concern should be how God labels us. If we do not have the label of God's good and faithful servants, then we are not doing the things that we should be.
Do not let the world define you, but rather let God make you into the person that you were created to be.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, thank you for all that you have given and all that you do. You are so good to us, and all that we have comes from you. Help us not to take this life for granted and may we always be seeking your will. Lord, we all need your help, we want to be with you in heaven, but we cannot make it there without you. Help us to persevere in this life until our time is done. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
12.10.2009
A long way to go
Readings for Thursday December 10, 2009
First Reading: Isaiah 41:13-20
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 145
Gospel: Matthew 11:11-15
Jesus said to the crowds: “Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the Kingdom of heaven is greater than he. From the days of John the Baptist until now, the Kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent are taking it by force. All the prophets and the law prophesied up to the time of John. And if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah, the one who is to come. Whoever has ears ought to hear.” (Mt 11:11-15)
Today we find out that John the Baptist is Elijah, the one who is to come and prepare the way of the Lord. John was a great prophet, even Jesus Himself says so. The Lord uses great messengers throughout the scriptures to deliver His messages and to help spread the good news and hope that is found in the Lord. God even to this day uses messengers to deliver powerful messages that each of us seem to hear at a timely point in our lives. I have been to some great conferences and speakers and heard some wonderful talks of powerful Catholic speakers. Many times when hearing these speakers it was exactly what I needed to hear at the time; God's timing is always good. But God has sent messengers into my life not just at conferences, but also daily; my wife, friends, family, etc. And who could forget about our priests who deliver God's message at every mass, in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and any other times we need them. God's messengers are out there delivering His words and doing His will each and every day, and it is always for the sake of the Kingdom.
But regardless of how great these messengers are, because they are on earth, they still fall short of the glory of heaven. Even a great prophet like John the Baptist was considered below the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. This is an important reminder that no matter how successful we may be here on earth, we still have a long way to go. And no earthly successes can ever put us above those in the Kingdom of Heaven. Our greatest success in life will be the day that God allows us into His Kingdom where we can spend eternity with Mary our Blessed Mother, all the saints and the angels basking in God's love and praise Him and worshiping Him at all times. That is the day in which we will truly find success.
So let us remember that God sends many messengers in our lives, and if we are paying attention, we might just hear what God is saying to us. But regardless of how great we think these messengers are or how greatly we think of ourselves; we all still have a long way to go. For no matter how Holy we are here on earth, we are still below even the least in the Kingdom of heaven.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, we praise you for the many blessings in our lives. Thank you for all that you give and all that you do. I pray that we can surrender our will to you, to let go of all the things that we cling to on this earth. Lord, help us to let go of worldly things and to just cling to you. We pray for all those in need of conversion and all those seeking hope in this world, may they find it in you. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
First Reading: Isaiah 41:13-20
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 145
Gospel: Matthew 11:11-15
Jesus said to the crowds: “Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the Kingdom of heaven is greater than he. From the days of John the Baptist until now, the Kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent are taking it by force. All the prophets and the law prophesied up to the time of John. And if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah, the one who is to come. Whoever has ears ought to hear.” (Mt 11:11-15)
Today we find out that John the Baptist is Elijah, the one who is to come and prepare the way of the Lord. John was a great prophet, even Jesus Himself says so. The Lord uses great messengers throughout the scriptures to deliver His messages and to help spread the good news and hope that is found in the Lord. God even to this day uses messengers to deliver powerful messages that each of us seem to hear at a timely point in our lives. I have been to some great conferences and speakers and heard some wonderful talks of powerful Catholic speakers. Many times when hearing these speakers it was exactly what I needed to hear at the time; God's timing is always good. But God has sent messengers into my life not just at conferences, but also daily; my wife, friends, family, etc. And who could forget about our priests who deliver God's message at every mass, in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and any other times we need them. God's messengers are out there delivering His words and doing His will each and every day, and it is always for the sake of the Kingdom.
But regardless of how great these messengers are, because they are on earth, they still fall short of the glory of heaven. Even a great prophet like John the Baptist was considered below the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. This is an important reminder that no matter how successful we may be here on earth, we still have a long way to go. And no earthly successes can ever put us above those in the Kingdom of Heaven. Our greatest success in life will be the day that God allows us into His Kingdom where we can spend eternity with Mary our Blessed Mother, all the saints and the angels basking in God's love and praise Him and worshiping Him at all times. That is the day in which we will truly find success.
So let us remember that God sends many messengers in our lives, and if we are paying attention, we might just hear what God is saying to us. But regardless of how great we think these messengers are or how greatly we think of ourselves; we all still have a long way to go. For no matter how Holy we are here on earth, we are still below even the least in the Kingdom of heaven.
Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, we praise you for the many blessings in our lives. Thank you for all that you give and all that you do. I pray that we can surrender our will to you, to let go of all the things that we cling to on this earth. Lord, help us to let go of worldly things and to just cling to you. We pray for all those in need of conversion and all those seeking hope in this world, may they find it in you. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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