5,886 research outputs found
Daily Reflections (Meditations) on the Scriptures from the Roman Catholic Lectionary.
No full text|As I reflect on today's Gospel, I have tried to put myself in the shoes of Jesus' apostles. Here I am, listening to instructions from Jesus and he is telling us to go out and spread the word of God, but, by the way, you are going to be like sheep amongst wolves, you will be handed over to courts for what you say and do and be scourged, you will be hated, you will flee from town to town, and..…YIKES!|I have to be thinking that the Apostles are asking, "Did I really sign up for this?" Unfortunately, I think I would have backed down and said thanks, but no thanks. Amazingly and thankfully, the Apostles did not. Their connection with Jesus was so strong. So compelling was the message that they not only did not back down, but they went out with a fervor that influences us today.|As I reflect on what this means to me, I first thank the Apostles for having the courage to deliver the message since it provides true hope and purpose. I also do my best to tap into the Holy Spirit and to be strong when confronted with situations where it would be far easier to give in and sin. As with the Apostles, Jesus sends us out as well. Now, it may not be to governors of the Roman Empire, but he does want us to live God's message through our interactions with family members, co-workers, friends, and others. And although this may, at times, cause internal and external conflict, it is through our faith, words, and actions that we breathe life into the words of Jesus and prepare ourselves to endure, to celebrate, and to be saved not only temporally, but eternally. Michael Kavan wrote this reflection on these readings in 1916
Daily Reflections (Meditations) on the Scriptures from the Roman Catholic Lectionary.
No full textToday, we are blessed with two wonderful readings that really allow me to reflect on my relationship with God. The first is from James. What great advice he offers to us all when he writes that “everyone should be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger for anger does not accomplish the righteousness of God.” As a psychologist, I am certainly tuned into the importance of listening to family, friends, and my patients. After all, I learned long ago that God gave us two ears and one mouth, so, use them accordingly. In fact, I think my mom was probably the first to tell me that as a child. But James gives these words even deeper meaning. We live in a land of clutter and much of that takes the form of noise – the computer, the iPod, TV, radio, you name it. Although they keep us up to date, they also distract us and keep us out of touch with God. I truly believe that God tries earnestly to speak to us throughout our day, but we are so overstimulated by these other distractions that we do not have time to hear what he is saying. Again, we should be “quick to hear.” James also, and maybe more importantly, reminds us that we should not only hear the word of God, but we must do something with it. And what better way to act than to unselfishly care for those most in need. In doing this, we humbly welcome God’s words.||In our Gospel reading, Mark tells the story of Jesus and his healing of a blind man. Now, a lot has been written about this reading with much focus on why Jesus took two attempts at curing the man's blindness. The best way for me to make sense of this reading is to relate it to my own life with the hope it may be meaningful for you as well. I was baptized and then grew up in a Catholic family - Catholic grade school, public school after that since we could not afford otherwise, and then to Creighton as an undergraduate - yes, lots of grants and generous support. Throughout life, mom and dad stressed the importance of mass and being good Catholics. And I think my faith was fairly strong - yes, I could see, but my religious life was fuzzy or not completely focused. Junior high, high school, and even college was a little unfocused spiritually - people looked like "walking trees." I was fortunate enough to be given a second chance at enhancing my faith when I was required to take theology at Creighton and stumbled into a course entitled Jesus Christ Savior (or something like that) from Dr. Michael Lawler. Although a tough course, it really provided a new perspective of Jesus and my relationship to him and God. It spurred me to further reading and inquiry and eventually into a deeper understanding of Jesus and my relationship with God. And it was through this inquiry and my willingness to hear God's message that my spiritual sight was restored and I was able to see clearly and to truly get it. Now, is my spirituality or my connection with God always perfectly clear? No - but when it occasionally becomes fuzzy, it always seems to help when I purposely reconnect with God through more intense study or by being more open to hearing his word
Daily Reflections (Meditations) on the Scriptures from the Roman Catholic Lectionary.
No full text|As I write today's reflection, we are nearing the celebration of Easter. Our readings remind us at this time of year of the importance of repentance and the good that comes from accepting Jesus as our Messiah. In the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, Peter heals a crippled man by invoking the name of Jesus. Understandably, the crowd is amazed and Peter takes the opportunity to remind the crowd that Jesus is the "Holy and Righteous One" as well as the "Author of Life." He continues by stating that it is through repentance and our faith in Jesus as the Messiah that we are healed and given new life. Peter, John, and the crowds are true witnesses to our Lord's blessings. In the second reading from Luke, Jesus appears before the disciples and proclaims that following his suffering and resurrection that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name, and that the disciples would once again be witnesses to this great news.|In both readings, we see the value of repentance. The opportunity to ask for forgiveness and for our sins to be wiped away – a "refreshment" according to Peter. I believe that it is in this act of repentance that we rid ourselves of past sins and open our hearts and souls to the words of God. As such, we gain the opportunity to truly witness God's great works. And maybe, more importantly, not just witnessing, but becoming disciples of Christ who actually carry forward the Word of God through our words and actions. Now, we may not be able to cure a crippled man in the manner of Peter and John, but we can engage in small and not-so-small acts that demonstrate we are witnesses of the Good News – be it a simple act of opening a door for a stranger, to volunteering at a shelter, to advocating for those who are marginalized, to actually treating those who are sick through our work as healthcare professionals. We all have an opportunity to witness God and to act as Jesus taught us.|I recently listened to a homily by the Reverend Patrick Smith from St. Augustine Parish in Washington, DC. And he told the story of a man who was teaching at a university and was close to being appointed tenure when he resigned. A year later a former colleague bumped into him in a grocery store and asked what he was doing. He said he was praying and discerning and felt God wanted him to leave and to teach in an inner-city public school. The former colleague asked what it was like and he said he loved it. Then his former colleague asked the question that he really wanted to know – "So, what do you make?" For which he responded – "I make a difference." God wants us to make a difference. So, all us should take advantage of our opportunity to repent, to refresh, and to not only witness Jesus as the Messiah, but to become disciples in our own right by engaging in acts of goodness toward others. We should want to make a difference
Daily Reflections (Meditations) on the Scriptures from the Roman Catholic Lectionary.
No full textIn this second week of Easter, today's first reading from Acts provides nice inspiration for post-Lenten reflections. I am sure that like me, many of you made a commitment before Lent to either give something up or to do something above and beyond in order to enhance our relationship with God. I gave up desserts and I also recommitted myself during Lent to avoid gossiping or saying negative things about others and, instead, I do my best to speak up for those gossiped about. I say this because throughout Lent I had multiple temptations on many fronts. It was comforting to hear the words of our Associate Pastor, Father Mark, when he spoke about these temptations as Satan's attempts to weaken our faith. And surviving these temptations during Lent provides us with enhanced self-efficacy to withstand future attempts to erode our faith as well. Although the Apostles were flogged they did not allow their suffering to weaken their faith in God, but instead they became stronger in their faith. As we progress out of Lent and into the Easter season it is a good reminder that we should revel in our ability to work through adversity, temptations, and suffering as well, knowing we are stronger in our faith as a result.|Today's second reading tells the story of Jesus feeding over 5,000 followers. In particular, Jesus takes the paltry gifts of five barley loaves and two fish and through his works provides as much bread and fish as people wanted. This reading reminds me of the wonderful gifts that God gives us. Whereas I am certainly aware of my inability to perform miracles the lesson I take from Jesus' actions is that I must do my very best at maximizing the use of the gifts that God provides to us and preferably in a manner that benefits others. How many times are we given opportunities, but fail to take advantage of these, oftentimes, complaining about a lack of time or resources?|As we move into the Easter season, let us reflect on our enhanced self-efficacy and our ability and renewed commitment to do more with less. In doing so, we will have the humble satisfaction that we took God's gifts and used them to the fullest in our efforts to better human kind
Daily Reflections (Meditations) on the Scriptures from the Roman Catholic Lectionary.
No full textOur readings today focus our attention on being open to the word of God, being confident in our faith, and then rejoicing in the comfort of God's message. In the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, Luke tells of the disbursement of the disciples following the death of Stephen through martyrdom. I cannot imagine the fear that the disciples felt as they scattered throughout the lands of Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch to proclaim Jesus as Lord. Would others listen?|Would they be ostracized? Possibly killed as well? Despite the fear of persecution and death, their belief in Jesus was so strong that they were compelled to spread the word to not only the Jews, but to the Greeks and Gentiles as well. God must have certainly been working through the disciples since the message was so positive and inspiring that a "great number" turned to God. In fact, Barnabas, who was sent from the church of Jerusalem, was so impressed and heartened by the disciples' work that he rejoiced and encouraged their good words and acts. He then recruited Saul to come to Antioch where they both could preach the good news of the Lord. It is so exciting to see the impact of God's message on those unfamiliar with it. I think it helps to be reminded of God's message as we progress through our day and week, especially when things are tough and we begin to question our faith and what it's all about. That is where our second reading provides the comfort and the guidance we may need.|In our second reading from John, it is doubt, not faith, in the minds of those around Jesus. Once again, Jesus is questioned about his identity. Essentially, "Just tell us who you are." Jesus responds by saying that he has told them previously that he and his Father are one, and that this has been shown through his works. Jesus then talks about faith and the importance of not only hearing his voice, but following him. His message is simple - It is through him and his Father that we are cared for and gain eternal life. Have faith in God and allow Him to guide us and we will never perish. Yes, doubt is natural, but by listening to and truly hearing the word of God we gain comfort and inspiration to move beyond. Just as the disciples were able to persevere after persecution and even the death of Stephen, so too can we. Yes, we will continue to confront struggles in our daily lives, but take comfort that we are accompanied by our Father. The message is clear – listen to the word, be strong in faith, and we will be in our Father's hand. Makes me smile just thinking about it
Daily Reflections (Meditations) on the Scriptures from the Roman Catholic Lectionary.
No full text|In today's Gospel reading, Matthew provides the parable of the two sons. Jesus is in the company of the chief priests and the elders and offers the parable of a father who asks each son to go out and work in the vineyard. The first initially says "I will not," but afterwards changes his mind (possibly repents) and works the vineyard. The other son initially says "Yes, sir," but did not follow through. Jesus asks, "Which of the two did his father's will? They answered, "The first." Jesus agrees, but reminds them that "tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the Kingdom of God before you."|Wow – I have to believe that the chief priests and elders were pretty dumbfounded by what Jesus had to say. Easier for tax collectors and prostitutes to enter the Kingdom of God than us? Really? To me, Jesus' point is pretty clear. God is asking us to do his work – the work modeled so well by Jesus. And we have a choice – we can talk a big game, but not follow through or we can eventually heed his message and do what's right. Thankfully, God is patient and gives us time to not only accept His calling, but to act accordingly. Again, it's the walk, not the talk, that counts.|So, how does this parable apply to us today? I think most of us see the "talk" quite a bit now days. We all know of preachers, governors, congressmen/women, and others who espouse (talk) high moral virtues, many doing so in the name of God, but who then go on to act (walk) in a manner that is antithetical to their original missives or the teachings of Jesus. In doing so, Jesus would likely consider them in the same category as the chief priests and elders. How do we not end up in the same grouping? I think the first thing I must do is to truly listen to the Word of God. Reflect on what work God is asking me to do and then, rather than just talking a good game about following His message, to actually do it – walk the walk. Am I perfect at doing this all the time? Certainly not. However, like the first son in the parable, God gives me and you a chance to repent and to say "yes" to working in His fields in a manner consistent with the teachings and actions of Jesus. And remember, as with the tax collectors and prostitutes, God gives us all a second chance. Are we going to take advantage of it and walk the walk, or are we going to be like the chief priests, elders, and second son and just do the talk. Our choice, but pretty significant consequences
Daily Reflections (Meditations) on the Scriptures from the Roman Catholic Lectionary.
No full textIn examining today's Gospel reading, two major themes emerge. The first is the announcement by Jesus of his impending death and resurrection. This is the second time that Jesus mentions his death and resurrection; the first being met with a strong reaction and even denial from Peter (Mt 16:21-22), this second announcement being met more by grief than anything else. I am reminded of Kubler-Ross and how she discussed the human reaction to a life-altering or threatening event. Her five stages of reaction include: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Granted, not everyone experiences all of these or in this order, but I see Peter's reaction in this light. In Matthew 16:21-22, he actually denies this possibility and rebukes Jesus for saying that he would suffer and be killed. As time passes and Peter gets closer to Jesus, I wonder whether Peter and the other disciples have progressed toward a better understanding of Jesus' path toward resurrection. I don't necessarily think that Peter has accepted Jesus' fate, but wonder whether he has resigned himself to its eventual happening. Thus, we see Matthew highlighting Peter's "grief" associated with the announcement.||Life throws a lot at us – most good, but some not so. As frustrating as these events may be at times, I think we can take a lesson from Peter. We must remind ourselves that God has a reason. We may not understand and we may get distressed and even angry about these events or the current path, but we have to remind ourselves that it is part of God’s plan. Possibly as we begin to accept his plan, we find solace in it. |The second theme from today's reading relates to the paying of the temple tax. Although "simple" at one level, I initially struggled to take meaning from Jesus' actions and message. The simple: When asked about who should pay the temple tax to the king, Jesus noted that the "foreigners" should pay with the subjects being exempt. Jesus did not see himself as being a subject of any earthly king and, thus, was neither foreigner nor subject. Despite this, Jesus believes he and Peter should pay the tax in order to support the temple and its functions, and to avoid controversy or scandal. I believe that Jesus is recommending that we follow the law as well as long as it does not conflict with God's teachings. Jesus then has Peter drop a hook and take a coin from the first fish that comes up, and to then pay the tax for both of them. This miracle, often cited as the only miracle he performed that "benefited" him, was a subtle or not-so-subtle way to demonstrate that despite paying the tax that he did rule the earth and all of creation.|So what does this mean? Jesus knew his mission and he did not let trivial matters such as paying the temple tax distract him or others from it. It is a reminder to all of us to stay focused on God and his teachings. Yes, we will be distracted by the trivial - even though at the time it may not seem so trivial; however, we must not let these distractions keep us from our mission to abide by the teachings of Jesus as he points our way to everlasting life
Daily Reflections (Meditations) on the Scriptures from the Roman Catholic Lectionary.
No full text|Today's Gospel reading from Mark is one of the shortest, but also one of the most impactful of the Gospel readings. Mark tells us the story of Jesus traveling within Judea and across the Jordan during which time some Pharisees were asking him questions about marriage, divorce, and other topics. It was at this time that parents, theologians suggest these were most likely fathers, were bringing their children to Jesus so that he might touch them; basically, to bless them. But the disciples rebuked the parents for doing this. Many believe the disciples were protecting Jesus who was likely tired or they thought that the children were insignificant or not worthy of Jesus' time; after all, they were just children. Keep in mind that during this time, children were deemed insignificant. They were considered nonpersons who were often ignored, abused, and exploited. So, one can possibly see where the disciples' attitude toward children takes root.|But, as we know, Jesus has a special place in his heart for those with no social standing in society. As such, he becomes "indignant" and actually angry with his disciples for rebuking the parents. He says, "Let the children come to me; do not prevent them." Then Jesus says what some refer to as the Magna Carta of children – "For the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the Kingdom of God like a child will not enter it." Wow, pretty incredible words at a time when children were deemed insignificant and unworthy to even approach Jesus. What Jesus actually meant by "like a child" has been discussed since the day it was said. As a father of four adult daughters and now three grandchildren ages five months to two and a half years old, I keep them in mind as I reflect on what Jesus meant by "like a child." Yes, a little ornery at times, but their innocence, their ability to accept others no matter their gender, race, or income. Their ability to quickly forgive and to rarely carry grudges. Their complete trust in us and their unconditional love toward others. Their childlike wonder – remember the incessant, "Why?" and other questions? And relatedly, their reliance on us to teach by words and more importantly by action.|So, how does this parable apply to us today? To me, it's pretty simple. Take the best qualities of being "like a child" and incorporate them into our lives as adults. Go into our interactions with a basic sense of trust, be open and accepting of people from all backgrounds – especially those that are different from ourselves. Be quick to forgive and let go of grudges. Maybe, most importantly, have trust and faith in God and live joyfully. And as Mark wrote, we will be embraced and blessed
Daily Reflections (Meditations) on the Scriptures from the Roman Catholic Lectionary.
No full textAs many of us know, Paul's letter to the Philippians was written while imprisoned. Rather than feeling helpless as most of us in this situation would, I sense that Paul is empowered by his relationship with Jesus Christ. In fact, in his letters Paul speaks, "with all boldness." And although he mentions his longing to depart this life and be with Christ, he sees remaining on earth as not only a necessity for the benefit of the Philippians, but as a means by which he may continue to serve others.|In terms of our own lives, most of us are required to cope with difficult circumstances from time to time. We may be imprisoned by depression, despair, anxiety, hate, or other problems that act as shackles in our lives. Although we may want to give up, we should, instead, emulate Paul and accept God's love and the empowerment that accompanies it to work through hardships. God grants us many gifts and these include the ability to step back, tap into our faith, and confidently use prayer, problem solving, forgiveness, and other God-given skills to free ourselves from the shackles of despair and hopelessness. By doing this, we grow greatly through and with Jesus Christ and rejoice as Paul knowing that none of this is possible without God's love. In recognizing this, we not only become empowered to live God's message, but to spread the word through our new-found empathy and service to those most in need.|Luke's gospel provides an account of Jesus visiting the house of a leading Pharisee. Whereas the Pharisees were closely watching Jesus to see how he observed Jewish law, it was actually Jesus who noted and then commented on how the guests were positioning themselves in places of honor at the table. Although this parable provides solid, practical, almost Martha Stewart-like advice about proper etiquette at functions such as dinner parties (i.e., never proceed to sit in a place of honor for fear of embarrassment when the host asks you to take a lesser seat), it much more importantly prescribes a manner by which to live our lives.|Many of us go through life with a sense of entitlement. We expect the best seat on an airliner, protest when we are not served better at a restaurant, or cry foul when not given the recognition we deserve at home or work. Although everyone likes to be treated well, Jesus' parable reminds us of the dangers of thinking too highly of ourselves. When it is "all about me" we often forget about the "them." And as in both Luke 14:1 and in our own lives, the "them" is often the less fortunate and marginalized. So, Jesus reminds us of the importance of humbling ourselves to others. Care less about our stature and more about others' well being, especially those who are poor, discriminated against, imprisoned, or experience mental health problems. Humbling ourselves and serving others not only helps those being served, but psychological research demonstrates its powerfully positive impact on the server as well. And, more importantly, by humbling ourselves in front of God, He will exalt us
- …
