Author: Flame of Love

JESUS WASHES THE DISCIPLES’ FEET (Jn 13:1-13)

Prayer:

Jesus, wash me and cleanse. Me.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus washing the Disciples’ feet.

Context:

This gospel highlights the great contrast. Jesus has all power, yet he acts like a servant. He washes the disciples’ feet as if they were the master of the house. He explains the meaning of this symbolic act. These powerful apostles must act like servants.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Knowing that the Father had given everything into his hands and that he came from God and was returning to God, Jesus rose from the supper and laid aside his garments. Taking a towel, he girded himself. Then he put water into a basin and began to wash the feet of the disciples and to wipe them with the towel around his waist.
After washing their feet, Jesus said, “You call me Master and Lord, for that is what I am. If I, who am your Master and Lord, have washed your feet, then you also, should wash one another’s feet. I have given you an example. As I have done to you, so you also should do.”

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. Jesus is not powerless. He has come from the Father and will return to the Father. “Everything is in his hands.”
2. Yet, Jesus removes his garments, (a symbol of power) and girds himself with a towel, (a symbol of service.)
3. He descends to the floor, and kneels before each apostle (even Judas).
4. Although He is “Lord” and “Master”, he sets aside those titles to act as a slave and servant.
5. “I have given you an example” is Jesus’ keynote speech at his finest hour.
6. The apostles do not understand. Only the cross will make everything clear.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Jesus, You knew who you were, where you came from and where you were going.
• O Lord, with all your greatness, you still choose to serve me.
• You kneel at my side and you wash my feet. How can I not love you?
• Your tenderness overwhelms me. Your actions touch me deeply.
• How can I respond to you?
• “Do the same for your friends,” You say. “I have given you an example.”

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will ask the Lord to cleanse me, again and again.
+ From this day on, I will serve the needs of others.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

Jesus rose from table and set aside his garments.

JUDAS ISCARIOT (MT 26:14-25)

Prayer:

Jesus, may I always be loyal to you.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus at the Last Supper.

Context:

Jesus often spoke about his betrayal. Up to now however, Jesus never revealed his betrayer or said openly that he would come from the twelve. Now he must focus on this issue. So, Jesus reveals Judas as the one and determines the time by telling Judas to leave the Upper Room.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

One of the Twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What are you willing to give me
if I hand him over to you?”
They paid him thirty pieces of silver,and from that time on he looked for an opportunity to hand him over.

On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples approached Jesus and said,
“Where do you want us to prepare for you to eat the Passover?”
He said, “Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, ‘The teacher says, “My appointed time draws near;
in your house I shall celebrate the Passover with my disciples.””‘
The disciples then did as Jesus had ordered, and prepared the Passover.

When it was evening, he reclined at table with the Twelve. And while they were eating, he said,
“Amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me.”
Deeply distressed at this, they began to say to him one after another, “Surely it is not I, Lord?”
He said in reply, “He who has dipped his hand into the dish with me is the one who will betray me.
The Son of Man indeed goes, as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed.
It would be better for that man if he had never been born.”
Then Judas, his betrayer, said in reply, “Surely it is not I, Rabbi?”
He answered, “You have said so.”

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. What a tragic story. Judas, called to be close to Jesus, becomes the knife in Jesus’ heart.
2. Jesus often spoke about this moment. Now, it could not be postponed.
3. Because of their simplicity, the other apostles worry if it could be themselves.
4. The Beloved Disciple is so close to Jesus’ heart that Jesus tell him who his betrayer is.
5. Jesus is still in control. He determines the time of the betrayal by telling Judas to act now.
6. ‘It was night” everywhere – in Judas’ soul, in Jesus’ broken heart and in world history. This was the darkest moment.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Jesus, by your grace, my life will not be a tragic story.
• You call me to greatness. You have prepared a place for me at your table.
• Give me the simplicity of the apostles who were loyal to you.
• I will place my head on your breast and experience the love in your Sacred Heart.
• O Jesus, to depart from you is the darkest night. Hold on to me.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will value my friendship with Jesus above every other prize.
+ I will be faithful to my friends.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

One of you will betray me.

JUDAS ISCARIOT (Jn 13:36-38)

Prayer:

Jesus, may I always be loyal to you.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus at the Last Supper.

Context:

Jesus often spoke about his betrayal. Up to now however, Jesus never revealed his betrayer or said openly that he would come from the twelve. Now he must focus on this issue. So, Jesus reveals Judas as the one and determines the time by telling Judas to leave the Upper Room.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Reclining at table with his disciples, Jesus grew troubled in spirit and said, “Amen, amen I say to you. One of you will betray me. “The disciples looked at one another, puzzled as to whom he could mean. Now the disciple whom Jesus loved was leaning on his breast. Simon Peter beckoned to him and said, “Who is he speaking about?” The disciple asked, “Lord, who is it?” Jesus answered, “The one to whom I give some food after dipping it in the dish.” He dipped it and gave it to Judas Iscariot, son of Simon.
After receiving the morsel, Satan entered into Judas. Jesus said, “What you have to do, do quickly.” The others at table did not know Jesus’ purpose. Having received the morsel, Judas went out immediately. It was night.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. What a tragic story. Judas, called to be close to Jesus, becomes the knife in Jesus’ heart.
2. Jesus often spoke about this moment. Now, it could not be postponed.
3. Because of their simplicity, the other apostles worry if it could be themselves.
4. The Beloved Disciple is so close to Jesus’ heart that Jesus tell him who his betrayer is.
5. Jesus is still in control. He determines the time of the betrayal by telling Judas to act now.
6. ‘It was night” everywhere – in Judas’ soul, in Jesus’ broken heart and in world history. This was the darkest moment.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Jesus, by your grace, my life will not be a tragic story.
• You call me to greatness. You have prepared a place for me at your table.
• Give me the simplicity of the apostles who were loyal to you.
• I will place my head on your breast and experience the love in your Sacred Heart.
• O Jesus, to depart from you is the darkest night. Hold on to me.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will value my friendship with Jesus above every other prize.
+ I will be faithful to my friends.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

One of you will betray me.

MARY’S ANNOINTING (Jn 12:1-11)

Prayer:

O Jesus, let me be generous in serving you.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus at table with Martha, Mary and Lazarus.

Context:

Lazarus has just been raised from the dead. This scene continues the death to life theme, but now it focuses on Jesus, not Lazarus. Martha and Mary play their familiar roles. Martha serves and Mary anoints Jesus’ feet.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany where Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead. They made a supper. Martha served and Lazarus was at table. Mary took a pound of costly perfume made from genuine aromatic nard with which she anointed Jesus’ feet and wiped the feet with her hair. The odor of the ointment filled the house.
Then, Judas Iscariot, who was about to betray Jesus, asked, “Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred silver pieces and given to the poor? “ He said this, not because he loved the poor, but because he was a thief and controlled the purse. Jesus said, “Let her alone. She has done this for my day of burial. The poor you always have with you but me you do not always have.
A great crowd of Jews knew that Jesus was there. They came, not just to see Jesus but also to see Lazarus whom he had raised from the dead. The chief priests planned to kill Lazarus, too, because many Jews were going over to Jesus, believing in him on account of Lazarus.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. What an experience – to sit at table with the Saviour of the world and with a man who had been dead four days.
2. Martha and Mary use their personal talents. Martha serves the meal. Mary anoints Jesus. 
3. Mary has total generosity.  She buys the costliest perfume.
4. Judas reveals his heart. His eyes are on the money, not upon Jesus’ glory.
5. Mary’s perfume fills the whole house just as the Spirit filled the temple. 
6. The perfume prefigures the glory of Jesus’ body after rising from the dead. 
7. Lazarus is a witness to Jesus’ power and leads others to believe.
8. How many signs do the chief priests need to have their hearts touched?

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• I will be generous, Jesus, giving to you my most costly treasures.
• O Jesus, I will use my talents for you and your Kingdom.
• Let your glory and your blessings fill my whole house, my whole life.
• What love Martha and Mary had for you!
• Do not let money dominate my life.  I could become a Judas.
• Your body is in heaven and you want my body to be there with you.
• How many signs you have given to me.  Increase my faith.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ Where should I be more generous with my possessions?
+ I will try to serve the interests of Jesus.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

She has done this for my day of burial.

THE PALM SUNDAY PROCESSION

Prayer:

Jesus, I place my garments at your feet.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus riding upon a donkey with the great crowd.

Context:

This special procession is Messianic. It openly fulfills prophecies and says to the crowd that Jesus is their Messiah. Jesus proclaims himself a very surprising Messiah. He does not ride a horse and proclaim himself a general who will lead an army. He rides a donkey as a man of peace who will lead Israel to peace (if they follow).

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said to two of his disciples, “Go into the village. You will find a colt, which is tied and upon which no man has ever sat. Untie him and bring him. If anyone asks, “What are you doing?” just say that the Lord has need of it and he will send it back at once.
They went and found the colt. As they untied it, the bystanders asked, “What are you doing by untying the colt?” They answered just as Jesus said and they let the colt go with them.
They brought the colt to Jesus. When they placed their garments on the colt, Jesus sat upon it. Many spread their garments and others cut down branches from the trees and placed them in his way. Those that went before and those that followed cried out: “Hosannah! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed be the reign of our father David to come! God save him from on high!”

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. The disciples are successful in their task because they obey Jesus’ directions.
2. The owner cooperates.  How blessed he is.  He sacrifices the donkey because “The Lord has need.”
3. Jesus knows exactly what to do.  He must ride a donkey into Jerusalem to fulfill the prophecy about the Messiah.
4. The donkey symbolizes Jesus a Messiah of peace, not of war.
5. The crowds respond immediately to Jesus’ Messianic entry.
6. They proclaim the event clearly.  Jesus is coming “In the name of the Lord.”
7. He will fulfill their centuries-long hopes for the blessings of David.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Jesus, teach me to obey your every directive.
• You know every detail of the Father’s plan.
• O Jesus, what were your feelings on this special day of arriving in Jerusalem?
• O Jesus, you sought only to do the Father’s will.
• You are a Messiah of peace.  Fill my heart with your peace.
• You are a man of peace, not a man of the sword.
• I, too, say “Blessed are you, Jesus.  The Father sent you.
• O Jesus, fulfill all my hopes.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will consider how blessed I am because Jesus became a man.
+ I will try to appreciate the burden that Jesus assumed.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

PLOTTING TO KILL HIM (Jn 11:45-57)

Prayer:

Jesus, you died to save me.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with Lazarus and his sisters Mary and Martha.

Context:

Jesus has just raised Lazarus from the dead. By giving Lazarus new life, Jesus seals his own death. Raising Lazarus leads the Sanhedrin to decide to kill Jesus, no matter what the repercussions.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Many of the Jews, who had come to visit Mary, saw what Jesus did and put their faith in him. Some, however, went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. The chief priests and the Pharisees gathered a council and asked, “What are we to do because this man works many miracles? If we let him alone, all will believe in him, and the Romans will come and take away our temple and our nation.”
One of them named Caiaphas, the high priest of that year, said, “You know nothing. Nor do you see that it is expedient that one man should die for the people, so the whole nation does not perish.” (He did not say this by himself but he prophesied that Jesus should die for the nation, not only for the nation, but to gather together the dispersed children of God.) From that day on, they were determined to put him to death. So, Jesus did not walk openly among them.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. After seeing this miracle of Jesus raising Lazarus, the people begin to believe.
2. The chief priests and Pharisees agree that Jesus is performing miracles, and that the whole world will believe. Yet, they do not believe.
3. Having opposed Jesus from the beginning, all of his miracles mean nothing. Their hearts are hardened.
4. They fear that their temple and nation will be destroyed (exactly what happened because they did not believe).
5. Caiaphas even prophesies that “one man should die for the good of the nation”. This is exactly what Jesus did.
6. Their hatred limits Jesus. He cannot teach openly and the people are deprived of his words.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Jesus, I will always respond to you.
• Jesus, how can you perform miracles and people not believe?
• How much evil happens because people do not believe in your teachings!
• O Lord, how many blessings I lose when I do not believe.
• O Jesus, You have died for the whole world and for me.
• Jesus, do not hide yourself from me.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will open my heart to all the signs of God’s power.
+ I will be aware of the destructive power in my own heart.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

Many saw what Jesus did and placed their faith in him.

MAKING HIMSELF GOD (JN 10:31-39)

Prayer:

O Jesus, you are truly God and truly man.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching in the Temple.

Context:

The Jews understand clearly that Jesus is making himself equal to God. So they try to stone Jesus, claiming that he commits blasphemy. When Jesus preaches, the Jewish believes do not understand because they refuse to believe that he came from the Father.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

The Jews picked up rocks to stone him. Jesus asked, “I have shown you many good works from my Father. For which of these are you trying to stone me?” The Jews replied, “We are not stoning you for a good work but for blasphemy. You, a man, are making yourself God.” Jesus answered, “Is it not written in your law, ‘I said, “You are gods”? If scripture calls those gods to whom the word of God came, can you say that the one whom the Father has consecrated and sent into the world blasphemes because I said, “I am the Son of God”?
“If I do not perform the Father’s works, then do not believe me. However, if I perform them, even if you do not believe me, believe the works. In this way, you may realize that the Father is in me and I am in the Father”. They tried again to arrest him, but he escaped from their power.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. The story begins and ends with attempted violence against Jesus.  His preaching has no effect upon the listeners.
2. Jesus constantly stresses the central point.  His works show that he is one with the Father.
3. Jesus reveals new truths.  If all who receive God’s words are, in some sense, called gods, then he, who was consecrated by the Father, certainly has the right to call himself “Son of God.”
4. Jesus presents an “either-or”.  If he performs the Father’s works, they should believe.  If he does not, then they do not need to believe.
5. Jesus always points to the same truth.  “The Father is in me and I am in the Father.”

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Jesus, let your words change me.
• You always say to me, “Trust me, I am one with the Father”.
• How great are your works in me!  How many changes come about when I open my heart to you.
• Thank you for making me a child of God.
• You are consecrated to the Father.  Consecrate me, Jesus. I am Yours.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will ponder all that Jesus has done for me.
+ I will meditate on Jesus making me a child of God.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

The Father is in me and I am in the Father.

GREATER THAN ABRAHAM (JN 8:51-59)

Prayer:

Jesus, help me never to taste eternal death.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching in the Temple.

Context:

Jesus makes even stronger claims. Not only is he greater than Abraham but Abraham “rejoiced to see my day.” On the natural level, this is impossible. Jesus is certainly less than fifty. However, he invites his listeners to the supernatural level where they will believe that Jesus always existed. He is I AM.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said, “Amen, amen, I say to you, if anyone keeps my word he shall never see death. The Jews said, “Now we know you have a devil. Abraham is dead and the prophets are dead. Yet, you say, ‘If anyone keeps my word he will never taste death.’ Are you greater than Abraham who is dead? Or the prophets who are dead? Who do you make yourself out to be?”
Jesus answered, “If I glorify myself, my glory is as nothing. It is the Father who glorifies me. Of him, you say, ‘He is our God.’ You have not known him, but I have known him. Abraham, your father, rejoiced to see my day. He saw it and was glad”
They said, “You are not yet fifty years old and you have seen Abraham?” Jesus said, “Amen, amen, I say to you, before Abraham came to be, I AM.”

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. The crowd turns hostile, claiming that Jesus has a devil.
2. Jesus claims no glory for himself. All his glory comes from the Father.
3. However, the crowd is ignorant of the Father (although he is their God) and cannot understand the Son.
4. Only at the end does Jesus make his greatest revelation.
5. When the crowd asks “Who do you make yourself out to be?” Jesus reveals his inmost secret.
6. He is eternal. Before Abraham was even created, Jesus existed. “I AM”, he says.
7. They shake their heads in disbelief.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Jesus, your works, your miracles, and your healings only hint at who you are.
• You existed forever and you freely chose to enter history. To help me!
• You were with the Father and you came down to earth. To save me!
• Filled with heavenly glory, you emptied yourself. To bless me!
• You were obedient unto death. To raise me up!
• My mind cannot grasp these truths. Your love overwhelms me.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will try to realize that the Father has loved me in Christ from all eternity.
+ I will receive Communion often because I AM is my food and drink.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

Abraham saw my day and was glad. You are not yet fifty years old.

THE SON FREES YOU (JN 8:31-342)

Prayer:

Jesus, set me free from the slavery of sin.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching in the Temple.

Context:

Jesus speaks to “the Jews who believed in him” (8:31). Although they believe, their faith is too limited. They consider Abraham greater than Jesus. They want to make Jesus part of the Jewish religion instead of its fullness. Jesus stresses that he is not God’s servant but his Son.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said to the Jews who believed in him, “If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples. You will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” They answered him, “We are descendents of Abraham and we have never been slaves to anyone. How can you say that you will set us free?”
Jesus answered, “Amen, Amen I say to you. Whoever commits sin is the slave of sin. A slave does not stay in the house forever but the son always remains. Therefore, if the son sets you free, you shall be free indeed.”

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. These Jewish believers have limited faith and Jesus must challenge them.
2. They still cling to Abraham and are not certain about Jesus.
3. Abraham could not forgive sins or bestow eternal life.
4. Without Jesus, they remain slaves and will be ejected from the Kingdom.
5. By believing in Jesus, they themselves can become sons of God.
6. They will have the right to live forever in God’s house.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Jesus, do I truly believe? Is my faith full and deep?
• To be God’s child, I must abide in your word and walk on your path.
• O Jesus, without you, I am a slave, a slave to sin and a slave to death.
• Change me, Jesus. Change me from slave to son.
• You call me to live forever in your Father’s house.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I believe that Jesus is unique, the only Son of God.
+ I will seek Jesus’ saving power in confession.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

If the Son frees you, you are free indeed.

“I AM” (Jn 8:21-30)

Prayer:

O Jesus, enlighten me and reveal your fullness.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus in the temple.

Context:

In this text, Jesus does not say “I am the light of the world” but simply “I am”. In fact, he says it twice. By using these words, he claims equality with the Father, who said ‘I AM” when speaking to Moses at the burning bush.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said, “I am going away and you will look for me, but you will die in your sin. You belong to what is below. I belong to what is above. You belong to this world, but I do not belong to this world. That is why I told you that you will die in your sins. For if you do not believe that I AM, you will die in your sins.
When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will realize that I AM, and that I do nothing on my own. I say only what the Father has taught me. He has not left me alone, because I always do what is pleasing to him. Because Jesus spoke this way, many came to believe in him.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. The Father calls himself “I AM” to Moses at the burning bush.   Jesus uses the same words to identify himself.
2. The people reject this truth. They refuse to believe that Jesus is God, sent by the Father and equal to the Father.
3. Rejecting this truth means that they will die in their sins.
4. When Jesus was lifted up on the cross, the Father revealed Jesus’ divinity.
5. The Father did not “leave him alone.”  He raised Jesus from the dead, so all would realize that Jesus is “I AM.”

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Jesus, I worship you. You are truly God.
• I adore you.  You always existed from the beginning. 
• When You were lifted up, stretched out on the cross between earth and heaven, the Father revealed you.
• He did not leave you alone.  He raised you up.
• You are the source of my everlasting life.
• Jesus, you will not let me die in my sins.  You will come for me.
• You are “I AM”.  You lack nothing.  All power and glory is yours.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will live this day in the presence of Jesus, “I AM”.
+ I will lift Jesus up in my own heart.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

When you lift me up you will realize that I AM.

THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD (JN 8:12-20)

Prayer:

O Jesus, flood me with divine light.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus in the temple.

Context:

After saving the woman caught in adultery from being stoned to death, Jesus calls himself “The light of the world”. He is challenged to produce witnesses. He claims that the Father is his witness, but the crowd knows neither the Father nor Jesus.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. The Pharisees said, “You testify on your own behalf.” Jesus said, “Even if I testify on my own behalf, my testimony can be verified because I know where I come from and where I am going. I testify on my behalf and so does the Father who sent me. If you knew me, you would know my Father also.
He said these words in the temple area. But no one arrested him because his hour had not yet come.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. John has already told us that Jesus “was the light of the human race” (1:3) and that the Baptist had come to testify to that light.
2. Now, Jesus himself proclaims his prerogative, that he is the “light of the world.”
3. The Pharisees challenge his claim, saying that he does not have the two witnesses demanded by the law.
4. Jesus correctly states that if God is the witness, only one is needed.
5. They, of course, are ignorant of the Father and of Jesus’ divine origins, even though he clearly says, “I am.”
6. Knowing Jesus and knowing the Father go together. Ignorance of one causes ignorance of the other.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• Jesus, You are divine. You are God’s eternal Word. You are equal to the Father. You became flesh and lived among us.
• I know you, Jesus. I know you are the world’s only true light.
• Jesus, if you are my light, I will not walk in darkness.
• Jesus, I am a child of the light and a child of the promise.
• I will not choose the darkness or even the twilight. My inheritance is the fullness of light.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will leave behind all the darknesses of my past life.
+ I will live always in the light of truth.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me does not walk in darkness.

THE WOMAN CAUGHT IN ADULTERY (Jn 8:1-11)

Prayer:

O Jesus, forgive me and set me free from all my accusers.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus in the temple with the accused woman before him.

Context:

This story fulfills Jesus’ statement “You judge by appearances, but I do not judge anyone.” (Jn 8:15) Jesus teaching in the temple and people getting up early to hear him is attested by Luke (21:38). This story follows the usual pattern of Jesus’ enemies trying to entrap him. Jesus extends God’s mercy so the woman can turn away from evil.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Early in the morning, Jesus came to the temple and all the people came to hear him. He sat down while he taught. The scribes and Pharisees brought to him a woman caught in adultery and placed her in his presence. They said, “Master, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. Now, in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such a person. What do you say?” They said this to tempt him, so they might accuse him. But Jesus, bowing down, wrote on the ground with his finger.
As they continued to ask him, Jesus looked up and said, “Whoever is without sin, let him cast the first stone.” He, then, bent down and again wrote on the ground. Hearing this, they walked away, one by one, beginning with the elders.
Jesus was alone with the woman standing before him. Looking up, Jesus said, “Woman, where are those who accused you? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” Jesus said, “Neither will I condemn you. Go, and sin no more.”

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. The people were so anxious to hear Jesus that they rose early in the morning.
2. The Jewish leaders had no interest in Jesus’ teaching. They wanted only to entrap him.
3. For these leaders, the adulterous woman is only an instrument they can use. For Jesus, she is a person whom he can forgive.
4. As Jesus writes on the ground, the accusers recognize their sins.
5. His challenge to be without sin is too great for them and they leave.
6. The woman is relieved that these sinful accusers are gone.
7. Jesus, the sinless one, refuses to condemn her. He invites her to become sinless, also.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Jesus, make me anxious to learn your word.
• O Jesus, to you I am a person, the most important person in your Kingdom.
• I have many sins but you are my Saviour.
• When I am in your presence, I am filled with peace.
• You never condemn me Jesus, unless I refuse to repent.
• Help me to sin no more.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will examine my own conscience and ask Jesus’ forgiveness.
+ I will treat every person as Jesus treated this woman.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

Has no one condemned you? Then, neither do I.

THE GROWING OPPOSITION (Jn 7:40-53)

Prayer:

O Jesus, never let me oppose you.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus preaching in the Temple.

Context:

Jesus has divided the crowd. Some think he is the Messiah and others say the Messiah must come from Bethlehem, the City of David. (John’s community knew that Jesus was born in Bethlehem). The question is about Jesus’ divine origin and this text unfolds the great debate.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Some who heard Jesus’ words said, “This is indeed the prophet.” Others said, “This is the Christ.” Some however, asked “Does the Christ come from Galilee? Does not the scripture say that the Christ is from the seed of David and from Bethlehem where David lived? So a dissension arose because of Jesus. Some would even have apprehended him but no one laid hands on him.
When the temple guards came in, the chief priests and the Pharisees asked them, “Why did you not bring him in?” They said, “Never has anyone spoken as he did”. The Pharisees asked, “Have you, also, been taken in?” Do you see any members of the Sanhedrin or of the Pharisees believing in him? Only this crowd which knows nothing about the law – and they are lost, anyway!”
Nicodemus, one of their own (who had spoken with Jesus) said, “Does our law judge a man without speaking with him and learning the facts?” They taunted him, “Are you also a Galilean? Search the scriptures. You will not find the prophet coming from Galilee.” Then, each went off to his own home.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. Some grasp the truth. Jesus is the prophet and the Messiah.
2. Others find difficulties, as if Jesus does not fulfill the prophecies.
3. Still others plot to kill Jesus.
4. The guards are honest. Jesus’ words touched their hearts and they would not arrest him.
5. Their refusal stiffens the resistance of the temple leadership.
6. Nicodemus also speaks up but cannot pierce their darkness.
7. Because their hearts are divided, they separate and go home.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Jesus, you are the prophet, the messiah, all that I could ever hope for.
• Without you, my whole life is divided.
• O Jesus, give me an honest heart to make the right decisions.
• Break down all my walls of resistance so I can follow you.
• Send your messengers to instruct me and to show me the true path.
• Pierce my heart, Jesus. Plant your word.
• I do not want to walk away and return to a life without any purpose.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ Today, in the quiet of my heart, I will proclaim Jesus as my Messiah.
+ I will be aware of any hardness of my heart.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

No one has ever spoken like this before.

IGNORANT OF JESUS’ ORIGINS (Jn 7:1, 25-30)

Prayer:

O Jesus, I believe that you come from the Father.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching in the Temple.

Context:

When Jesus is in Galilee, he works miracles and receives acclaim. When he goes to Jerusalem, he finds persecution because the leaders want to kill him. The controversy centers around his origins. Since Jesus comes from Galilee, the people of Jerusalem do not accept his Messiahship. Jesus says that they do not know his real origin – which is from God.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Some people in Jerusalem remarked, “Is this not the one whom they wanted to kill? Yet, he speaks openly and no one says anything. Have the authorities decided that this is the Messiah? Yet, we know where he comes from but when the Messiah comes, no one will know from where he comes.
Jesus, therefore, proclaimed in the temple, “You both know me and you know where I come from. But, I have not come on my own. He who sent me is true, but you do not know him. I know him because I come from him and he has sent me.
Because of this, they tried to apprehend him but no man could lay hands on him because his hour had not yet come.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. Jerusalem leaders opposed Jesus because they would lose their power.
2. Blinded by their greed and social status, they reject Jesus as the Messiah.
3. Even the people remain in darkness concerning Jesus’ divine nature.
4. Jesus presses this important question of his divine origin.
5. He is from God, the son of the Eternal Father.
6. The Father has sent Jesus and he knows the Father perfectly.
7. They fail to kill Jesus.   God alone determines that hour.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Jesus, do not let me oppose your plans for my life.
• Remove my blindness and I will embrace you as my Messiah.
• Where do you come from, Jesus?  Did not the Father send you?
• Jesus, you know the Father and you reveal him to me.
• Heavenly Father, only you will determine my hour of death.  I will be ready.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will thank God that I know Jesus of Nazareth is my Saviour.
+ In what parts of my life do I oppose God? I will answer that question.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

I have not come on my own. The Father has sent me.

THE FATHER’S TESTIMONY (Jn 5:31-47)

Prayer:

O Jesus, help me to believe your testimony.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching in the Temple.

Context:

Jesus explains his purpose in healing the man. By this miraculous deed, the Father testifies about Jesus’ divine mission. Before this, John the Baptist testified about Jesus. However, the Jews accept neither testimony.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

If I testify of myself, my testimony is not verified. However, another testifies about me and I know his testimony is true. This testimony is the works which the Father has given me to do. These testify that the Father has sent me. You sent emissaries to John and he testified to the truth. But I have testimony greater than John’s, the works that the Father gave me to accomplish.
The Father himself testifies about me, but you do not have his word because you do not believe in the one whom he has sent. You search the scriptures and even these testify on my behalf. However, you do not want to come to me to have life.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. Jesus has worked many miracles by which the Father testifies to his divine mission.
2. These miracles speak loudly, proclaiming that the Father has sent Jesus.
3. When the Jews still do not believe, Jesus identifies the obstacle.
4. They want the Father but not the Father’s messenger, the Beloved Son.
5. They are blind even to the scriptural prophecies that foretold Jesus.
6. They cannot pass from death to life because they reject Jesus, the only bridge to the Father.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• Jesus, your miracles invite me to believe in you.
• You are Jesus of Nazareth. You come from the Father. You are his Divine Son.
• O Jesus, remove my obstacles to faith. Make me a child of light.
• Every page of Scripture testifies to you. You wrote it that I would believe.
• One truth is certain. When I come to you, I will gain eternal life.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will study the miracles (both in the Scriptures and in Church history). Their abundance will support my weak faith.
+ I will remove my critical spirit, which often refuses to accept God’s signs.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

The Father himself testifies about me and his testimony is true.

THE SON AND THE FATHER (Jn 5-17-30)

Prayer:

O Jesus, reveal the Father and Jesus to me.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching his disciples in the Temple.

Context:

Jesus has just healed a man who lay ill for thirty-eight years. However, he healed him on the Sabbath, and “The Jews began to persecute Jesus” (Jn 5:16) and even tried to kill Jesus because He made “himself equal to God”. (5:18). Now, Jesus responds to their hostility.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said, “I say to you that a son cannot do anything by himself, but only what he sees his father doing. Whatever he does, the son does likewise. For the Father loves the Son and shows him all that he himself does, and he will show him greater works than these, so that you may be amazed.
Just as the Father raises the dead and gives life, so also the Son will give life to whomever he wishes. Nor does the Father judge anyone, but he gives all judgment to his Son, so they may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father who sent him.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. Jesus reveals the source of his powers and deeds.
2. He does only what he sees the Father doing.
3. The Father loves Jesus and shows him everything. Nothing is held back.
4. As the Father gives more power, Jesus does greater works. This causes even more wonder.
5. Only God can give life and judge the world. Jesus shares even in these divine powers.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• Jesus, through you, I share in the Father’s life.
• Reveal your mysteries. I can do nothing on my own.
• I am amazed and filled with wonder as I see you work in me.
• O Jesus, you imitated the Father. Let me imitate you.
• You have all power over life and death. I entrust my soul to you.
• Only you are the Lord of heaven and earth.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will ask Jesus to show me what to do.
+ I will trust him for all I need, both in life and in death.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

The Father loves the Son and shows him all that he does.

THE NEW WATER OF LIFE (Jn 5:1-16)

Prayer:

O Jesus, heal my body and remove my sins.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus speaking to the healed man.

Context:

John portrays Jesus as going to Jerusalem on feast days to show that Jesus fulfills Jewish aspirations concerning the Messiah. This is the third sign of new life (preceded by Cana and healing the official’s son). The pool is clearly identified as the one near the sheep Gate.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus went up to Jerusalem on a feast day, going to a pool where many sick waited for the waters to be stirred. A certain sick man had been there for thirty eight years. Knowing that he had been sick a long time, Jesus said, “Do you want to be healed?” He said, “Sir, I do not have anyone to plunge me into the pool once the water has been stirred and someone gets in ahead of me.”
Jesus said, “Stand up. Pick up your mat and walk.” The man was immediately healed. He picked up his mat and walked. It was the Sabbath. The Jews said to him, “It is the Sabbath. It is not lawful for you to take up your mat.” He answered, “The one who made me whole told me, ‘Take up your mat and walk’”. They asked, “Who is the man?” The healed man did not know who it was. The crowd was so great that Jesus had slipped away.
Later, Jesus found him in the temple and said, “You are made whole. Sin no more so that something worse does not happen to you.” The man told the Jews that it was Jesus who made him whole. Therefore, the Jews persecuted Jesus because he did these things on the Sabbath.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. Jesus chooses to heal this man because he has been sick for so long.
2. The pool was frequently stirred from below.  The sick tried to enter the pool while the stirring was taking place.
3. Since Jesus is the new healing water, the man needed only Jesus, not the pool.
4. By placing Sabbath laws first, the Jews reject this new source of God’s grace.
5. Although healed, the man can still lose eternal life.  This is Jesus’ concern.
6. In great simplicity, the man reports Jesus, totally unaware of the Jews’ desire to kill him.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Lord, how long I have been sick with my sins and imperfections.
• You look at me.  You know my sorry state.  You pick me out of the crowd.
• You say to me, “Stand up.”  Suddenly, I have great strength.
• O Jesus, I will remain with you and you will give me eternal life.
• Why do people not love you?  You bless everyone.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will live this day in hope that Jesus will choose me for his blessings.
+ I will not listen to what others want me to do.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

Jesus, knowing he had been sick, said, “Stand up.”

BELIEVING THE WORD OF JESUS (JN 4:43-54)

Prayer:

O Jesus, you can do all things. Help me to believe.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with the royal official pleading for his son.

Context:

This is the second time in John’s gospel that Jesus reveals his power. This second miracle also takes place at Cana, and has some similar aspects. First, Jesus’ initial response seems like a refusal. Yet, the official sees that it is not a definitive refusal. He grows in faith, “believing in the word Jesus spoke to him.”

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus went to Cana of Galilee where he made the water into wine. A certain royal official, whose son was sick at Capernaum, came to him because he heard that Jesus had returned from Judea to Galilee. He asked Jesus to come down and to heal his son, who was at the point of death.
Jesus said, “Unless you see signs and wonders, you do not believe.” The official said to him, “Lord, come down before my son dies.” Jesus said, “Go home. Your son lives.” The man believed the word which Jesus said and went home.
On his way home, his servants met him, bringing word that his son lived. He asked the hour when this happened. “Yesterday, at the seventh hour, the fever left him.” The father knew that this was the same hour that Jesus said, “Your son lives.” So he and his whole household believed. This was the second miracle that Jesus did upon returning to Galilee.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. Jesus returned to Galilee, which was filled with faith.  Jesus’ fame had spread everywhere.
2. Having heard of Jesus’ miracles, the royal official comes with great faith.
3. The son occupies first place in the man’s heart and he wants Jesus to heal.
4. Jesus’ reply seems harsh, much like his answer to his mother at Cana.
5. Even so, the man’s love for his son causes him to renew the request.
6. Jesus acts at a distance, knowing that the son is healed.
7. The official, also, is satisfied.  He does not press Jesus to come with him.
8. Without seeing, he “ believed in Jesus’ word.”
9. When the servants brought the news, the official has no doubt that Jesus healed his son.
10. His faith grows.  All in the house believe.  He became a Church member. That is how we have the story.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O Jesus, how many requests I have in my heart right now.
• O Lord, I come before you with my heart filled with desires.
• I seek no sign, I believe you are the Christ, Son of the living God.
• I need not say “Come to my house.”  You are already with me.
• Your power has no limit.  Time and place present no obstacles.
• Let me see your power in every event of my life.
• O Jesus, we will believe in you, all my family, and my friends.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will ask Jesus for his help in every need.
+ I will allow faith to grow within.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

Go home. Your son lives. He and his whole household believed.

THE LOST SHEEP AND THE LOST COIN (LK 15:1-11)

Prayer:

O Jesus, show me how precious I am to you.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with His disciples.

Context:

These twin parables are closely connected to the Prodigal Son parable. A hundred sheep was a medium sized flock. The shepherd must have been poor, unable to pay a helper. Luke’s gospel centers on God’s joy on the day of Judgment. The parable of the lost coin has the same focus. The ten coins are the woman’s dowry, which she always carried in her headdress. She rejoices in the finding because each coin is so precious to her.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. At this, the Pharisees and scribes murmured, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” So, Jesus told this parable. If a man with a hundred sheep loses one, does he not leave the ninety-nine in the desert and search for the lost until he finds it? When he does find it, he places it on his shoulder rejoicing. On coming home, he gathers his friends and neighbors and says to them, “Rejoice with me, for I have found my lost sheep.” I will tell you that, in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, than over ninety-nine righteous people who do not need repentance.
Does not a woman having ten coins and losing one coin, light a candle, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? Then she calls her friends and neighbors and says, “Rejoice with me. I have found my lost coin.” In just the same way, I tell you that there will be more joy before the angels of God for one sinner doing penance.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. To leave ninety nine sheep in the desert is not a rational act.  The shepherd thinks with his heart.
2. The woman, also, treasures this special coin.  For years, she has carried this coin of her dowry in her headdress.
3. Their joys cannot be contained.  Friends and neighbors must share the abundance.
4. This is not a temporary finding.  The sheep and the coin are symbols of heaven and an eternal union.
5. God’s joy overflows to the angels.  The soul that was lost for a time is now found for an eternity.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• O God, I am precious to you.  You are “mad”, in your unreasonable love for me.
• Let me repent, so you and your angels can rejoice.
• Thank you, O Lord, for coming in search for me when I was lost.
• O God, your joy will not be complete until our union is forever.
• You give your angels charge over me.  They, too, rejoice at my return.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ I will stop running from God. In this way, he can find me more quickly.
+ I will recall those special moments when God found me.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

There will be rejoicing among the angels.

THE PHARISEE AND THE TAX COLLECTOR (LK 18:9-14)

Prayer:

O Lord, fill me with light that I would see my sinfulness.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with His disciples.

Context:

The two men both arrive at the hour of prayer (either 9:00AM or 3:00PM). Three aspects mark the Pharisee – his prominent position, the sins he has avoided and his good deeds which go beyond what is prescribed.
In contrast, the tax collector stands at a distance, is considered a robber (by respectable people) and recounts no good deeds. He strikes his heart (the source of all sin). His prayers and actions actually show a total helplessness of ever correcting his life. The parable is spoken to the religiously self-confident.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus spoke to those who trusted in themselves and despised others.
A Pharisee and a tax collector went up to the temple to pray. Standing, the Pharisee prayed, “I thank you, God, that I am not like the rest of men – greedy, dishonest and adulterers – as is this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give tithes on all that I possess.”
The tax collector stood afar off, not even raising his eyes to heaven. He struck his breast while saying, “O God, be merciful to me a sinner.”
I say to you that this tax collector returned to his home justified rather than the other.

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

1. The parable has two scenes – one in the temple and one in heaven. 
2. The temple scene is familiar, two men praying.
3. What happens in heaven, however, shocks his listeners. The tax collector is justified.
4. The Pharisee sets the stage for the tax collector. He is the one who has the correct attitude and prayer.
5. The tax collector is in total despair, locked into a disreputable lifestyle and, seemingly, has no ability to change.
6. Seemingly, he has no good resolutions. 
7. However, he experiences the beginning step of conversion – a broken and contrite spirit.

Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

• God, I have absolutely nothing to offer you.
• I have no spiritual strength, no good deeds and no resolutions.
• Yet, I dare to enter your temple of prayer.
• I offer you only one gift – an empty heart and a broken spirit.
• But you accept this as the first steps on my new journey.
• Your words encourage me, “This man went home justified.”
• Your mercy is everywhere.  Even I can hope.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+ Even in my most sinful moments, I will turn to God for mercy.
+ I will never allow the candle of my hope to go out.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

This man went home justified, but the other did not.