Author: Flame of Love

HOW TO PRAY (MT. 6:7-13)

Prayer:

O Jesus, teach me to pray as you prayed.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching His disciples the Our Father.

Context:.

The Lord’s prayer has seven petitions. The first three – “hallowed be your name. Your Kingdom come. Your will be done” are really the same, asking Jesus to return in glory. The last four petitions focus on what you need to gain the Kingdom.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

When you pray do not use many words, for the heavenly Father knows what you need before you ask. When you pray, say:
“Our Father, who are in heaven. Hallowed be your name. Your Kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread. Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”

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

1. In the Our Father, Jesus shows you what you should desire.
2. The Heavenly Father and His Kingdom must come first.
3. You must seek the Father’s will in all situations.
4. You must receive the daily bread of the Eucharist.
5. You need your sins forgiven to gain the Kingdom.
6. You must forgive all who have hurt you.
7. You must persevere in all trials and temptations.
8. The saints said this prayer slowly and devoutly.

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

• O Jesus, focus all my desires upon your Kingdom.
• O Father, I will live for your glory.
• Lord, let your Kingdom break into my life.
• Jesus, reveal the Father’s will. I will do it always.
• Give me a hunger for daily Eucharist.
• I forgive everyone, Lord. Everyone!
• O Jesus, help me in my temptations.
• Lessen the trials so I persevere.

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

+ I will make the Our Father my daily prayer.
+ I will make Holy Communion my daily food.

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

When you pray, do not use many words.

ACTING IN SECRET (MT 6:1-4)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit. Teach me to act in secret. I do not want to lose my reward.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching the disciples how to gain their reward.

Context:.

Jesus contrasts Christian goodness with the goodness of the Pharisees. He highlights doing good deeds in secret, with purity of intention.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Do not perform good deeds before men so you can be seen by them. If so, you will receive no reward from your heavenly Father.
When you give an alms, do not blow a trumpet, as hypocrites do. They already have their reward. Give your alms in secret, and your Father, who sees in secret, will repay you.
When you pray, go to your room and pray in secret. Your Father who sees in secret, will repay you.

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

1. Your heart is very twisted. You often do good deeds to be seen by others.
2. Acting in secret removes this evil and purifies your intention.
3. When done in secret, your good deeds belong totally to the Father.
4. You preserve the true goodness of your alms and your prayer.
5. In demanding secrecy, Jesus has one goal. He wants you to receive the heavenly Father’s reward.

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

• O Lord, purify my selfish motives.
• O Jesus, how many times I value men’s esteem more than the Father’s rewards.
• Let me hide myself from everyone but the Father.
• O Father, you wait for me to come to you in secrecy, unknown to others.
• Where is my heart, O Lord? What do I seek? Earthly esteem or heavenly glory?
• O Jesus, you emptied yourself. I, too, will empty myself to grasp heaven’s reward.

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

+ I will try to see the inner movements of my heart.
+ I will do all for the Father’s glory.

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

The heavenly Father, who sees in secret, will repay you.

LOVE YOUR ENEMIES (MT 5:43-48)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit. Make me perfect as the heavenly Father is perfect.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus asking the disciples to imitate the Father.

Context:.

Jesus continues his demands concerning goodness towards enemies. He contrasts his disciple with the pagans and demands a greater holiness. At the end, Jesus reveals his goal. He wants the disciple to be as perfect as the heavenly Father.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

You have heard it said, “You shall love your neighbor but hate your enemy.” I say to you “Love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you. Pray for those who persecute you and insult you. In this way, you can be children of your heavenly Father. He makes the sun rise on the good and the bad. He makes the rain fall on the just and the unjust.
If you love those who love you, what reward shall you have? Do not even sinners do this? If you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not even the pagans do that? You must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

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

1. Jesus leads you to the height of holiness.
2. At this new height, Jesus asks you to love everyone and to exclude all hatred.
3. He offers you the highest reward.  You will be a child of the heavenly Father.
4. Look at how God acts.  He sends his sun and his rain on everyone, good or bad.
5. Jesus wants you to act in every situation as the Father would act.

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

• Jesus, lead me to the heights of holiness.
• O Jesus, give me a new way to live.
• Let your love cast out all my hatred. Make me a child of the heavenly Father.
• I will shower my love, my blessings, my goods upon everyone.
• You call me to be perfect as the Father. I will begin right now.  Walk with me, Jesus.
• O Jesus, loving my friends is natural.  Even sinners do that.  Loving my enemies will be my new goal.

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

+ I will let everyone into my heart this day.
+ I will remove my hatred and critical spirit.

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

Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect.

RELATIONSHIPS (MT 5-38-42)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit. Teach me how to love as a disciple should.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching kindness to his disciples.

Context:.

The Jewish law to take only “An eye for an eye” was actually merciful in Jesus’ time. It limited the amount of revenge. Jesus goes beyond this legal mercy. The disciple must respond with extreme thoughtfulness, hoping to lead his opponent to faith in Jesus.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said to his disciples, “You have heard it said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth’. But I say to you, ‘Offer no resistance to evil. If someone strikes you on your right cheek, turn the other to him. If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic, hand him your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, then go two miles.

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

1. Jesus describes the new relationships in the Kingdom. If his disciples relate to others in this way, the Kingdom will spread quickly.
2. Jesus asks his disciples not to retaliate. In this way violence will end and the gospel can be preached.
3. Jesus asks the disciple to be patient, so others can see the Kingdom’s power.
4. The disciple does not invoke the law. Let the person have both your tunic and cloak. He is probably in need.
5. The disciple’s generosity in going “the second mile” witnesses to Jesus’ Kingdom.
6. After experiencing the disciple’s charity, the person will listen to the message about the Kingdom.

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

• O Jesus, change me. Make my heart like your heart.
• Help me to bring everyone into your Kingdom, no matter what the cost!
• Jesus, I will set aside my interests for your interests. I will forget myself for your gospel.
• I will use every situation to bring the Kingdom to others.
• Jesus, if I turn my back on no one, you will not turn your back on me.

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

+ I will examine my relationships to others. Are they according to the Kingdom?
+ In my generosity, I will be a herald of the Kingdom.

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

Offer no resistance. Go a second mile. Hand him your tunic. Give to him who asks.

THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD’S REIGN (MT 9:36-10:8)

Prayer:

O Jesus, your goodness is everywhere.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with his disciples, healing the crowds.

Context:.

The gospels are filled with Jesus compassion and power. Now, he extends that compassion to physical healings and to being a shepherd to the poor. Unable to do all by himself, he shares his powers with the twelve Apostles.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

When Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were prostrate from exhaustion, like sheep without a shepherd. He said to his disciples, “The harvest is great but the laborers are few. Pray, therefore, that the Lord of the harvest would send laborers into his harvest.” Calling his twelve disciples together, he gave them power to cast out unclean spirits and to heal all kinds of sickness and disease. He gave these instructions, “Do not go to pagan territory and do not enter a Samaritan town. Go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make the announcement, “The reign of God is at hand”. Cure the sick. Raise the dead. Heal the lepers. Expel demons. The gift you have received, give as a gift.”

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

1. Jesus is indefatigable.  He is everywhere – towns, villages, synagogues and street corners.  He does everything.  He heals. Raises from the dead. Expels demons.
2. The gospel reveals His inner thoughts.  He is filled with compassion because the people are worn out.
3. He will be their shepherd, taking up this difficult and thankless task.
4. His heart conceives a new plan.  He will multiply this work by sharing his powers with the faithful apostles.
5. Jesus first love is for Israel, his people.  The disciples must go there first.  Time is limited.
6. They must preach his message, ‘The Kingdom of God is at hand.”  This alone prepares for his coming.
7. He gives them the Kingdom’s powers – to heal and expel demons.

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

• Jesus, you are everywhere.  You do all things.  You seek me out.  You speak in my heart.
• You reveal your heart.  You are filled with compassion.  Every action is for my benefit.
• You see me worn out.  You see me burdened. “ I will make you my sheep”, you say.
• You have sent others for me.  You have given me a Church to preach your Kingdom and a Eucharistic table to nourish me.
• You love your people.  You love those who are baptized and believe in you.
• Your gifts are freely given and freely received.  Your abundance is everywhere.

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

+ I will be aware that Jesus is everywhere.
+ I will think of his great love for me.

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

Make the announcement, “The reign of God is at hand.”

FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY (LK 2:41-51)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Ghost. Help me to search for the True Heart of the Temple.

Imagination:

Picture Mary and Joseph hurrying to look for Jesus.

Context:.

When Jesus was twelve years old, He, Mary and Joseph travelled with others to the temple in Jerusalem to celebrate the feast of Passover, a thanksgiving to God for His goodness and mercy.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Each year Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem for the feast of Passover, and when He was twelve years old, they went up according to festival custom. After they had completed its days, as they were returning, the boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. Thinking that he was in the caravan, they journeyed for a day and looked for him among their relatives and acquaintances, but not finding him, they returned to Jerusalem to look for him. After three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions, and all who heard him were astounded at his understanding and his answers. When his parents saw him, they were astonished, and his mother said to him, “Son, why have you done this to us? Your father and I have been looking for you with great anxiety.” And he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” But they did not understand what he said to them. He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them; and his mother kept all these things in her heart.

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

1. In obedience, Jesus, Mary and Joseph kept the laws of their faith in celebrating the Passover at the temple in Jerusalem.
2. This required sacrifice, a long journey, and joining with others for safety in the caravan.
3. In the Temple, the House of our Father, Jesus teaches all who will listen that everything we think, say and do must be done for the Glory of the Father, especially bringing Him souls through the Merits of Jesus.
4. Mary and Joseph suffered anxiety, grief, and sorrow when they could not find Jesus, but persevered in their search until He was found.
5. They did not immediately understand Jesus’ actions, but Mary ‘kept these things in her heart’.  This is the heart which was joined to her Son’s, the heart which was obedient to the Holy Spirit in all things, even without understanding.
6. Jesus returned home with Mary and Joseph in obedience and love.

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

• O Mary, to what temple am I travelling in haste? God’s or the world’s?
• What am I searching for there? What have I lost that I hope to find?
• Am I hoping to find a temple filled with success, honors, friends, money?
• Am I hoping to find the true temple, filled with grace, mercy, hope, love?
• O Mary, Jesus knew that He wanted to be in His Father’s house. You lived your life in the house of obedience and fidelity to the Father and the Holy Spirit.
• Mary’s heart held the Spirit of her Son – in quiet contemplation, in sorrows, in joys, in obedience.  May my heart take courage and strength from hers.

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

+ I will ask Mary to give me her heart so that I can find her Son, Jesus.
+ I will search the temple of my heart to look for the true Treasure of Grace.
+ When I find the Heart of the Temple, I will not leave.

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

Mary and Joseph searched the temple made by hands, to find the Temple of Life, whose Word made all things.

THE MOST SACRED HEART OF JESUS (Mt 11:25-30)

Prayer:

O Jesus, help me to know the mysteries of the Kingdom.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus praising God for His disciples.

Context:.

Jesus has just reproached those towns that did not repent. Now, he looks at his disciples and sees that they have been faithful and that the Father has revealed the Kingdom to them.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus cried out, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and prudent, you have revealed them to the little ones. This has seemed good in your sight.
All things have been given over to me by my Father. No one knows the Son, but the Father. And no one knows the Father, except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him.

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

1. Jesus rejoices. He sees that the disciples are understanding the Kingdom.
2. He credits his heavenly Father, who has revealed these mysteries to the little ones.
3. The Father, himself, made this decision.
4. The worldly wise and the prudent are excluded from the Father’s gift.
5. Jesus Himself has the power to reveal even the Father himself.
6. Jesus chooses only “the little ones” to see these mysteries.

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

• Father, reveal to me the mysteries of the Kingdom.
• I will treasure them and live by them.
• O Father, my heart will be caught up with Jesus.
• O Jesus, reveal the Father to me.
• You will rejoice in me and I will be the first fruits of your work.
• When I was wise and prudent, you could not do this.  Now, I am your little one.
• O Jesus, all that is yours is to become mine.  What a mystery!

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

+ I will find time for solitude, so Jesus can reveal the Father.
+ I will cherish my life with Jesus and the Father.

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

The Son reveals the Father to whomever he wishes.

ANGER (MT 5:20-26)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit. Let your gentleness overcome my anger.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching his disciples to reconcile.

Context:.

Jesus teaches a “greater goodness” which is demanded by the holiness of this new Kingdom. In this gospel, he compares the Old Testament teaching on anger and his new teaching. Jesus desires a oneness among his disciples by avoiding anger.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus taught the disciples about anger, saying, “You have heard it said, ‘You shall not kill’ and ‘Whoever kills shall be liable to judgment’. But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother, shall be in danger of judgment. Whoever shall say to his brother, ‘Raqa’ shall be in danger of the council. Whoever shall say ‘You fool’ shall be in danger of hell fire.
If you come to the altar to offer your gift and remember that your brother has anything against you, leave your offering before the altar and go first to be reconciled to your brother. Then come and offer your gift.”

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

1. Jesus raises the Old Law to a new level and invites the disciples to live at that new height.
2. The law commanded only external compliance. Jesus’ Kingdom goes much deeper, into the disciples’ hearts.
3. Jesus’ disciples must remove their inner anger. Then, violence will cease.
4. He forbids angry words, so hatred has no hold.
5. He even demands that the temple sacrifices be delayed until the disciples reconcile.
6. Jesus gives new precedents and requires total selflessness.

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

• Jesus, make me gentle.
• Save me, O Lord, from the violent waters of anger. Bring me to the restful waters of your Spirit.
• Even on the cross, you spoke no angry word. You were silent as a lamb going to the slaughter.
• Release a river of peace, forgiveness and reconciliation within me.
• Reconcile me to all of my family and friends.
• O Jesus, I will drink deeply of your forgiveness.

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

+ Today, I will forgive everyone who hurts me.
+ I will reconcile with my enemies wherever possible.

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

Leave your gift at the altar and go to be reconciled with your brother.

THE LAW AND THE PROPHETS (MT 5:17-20)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit. Make me great in Jesus’ Kingdom.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching his disciples about following the Law and the Prophets.

Context:.

“Law and prophets” means the whole Old Testament. Jesus wants his Church to retain these books and teach them to his disciples. At the same time, these books are not God’s final word or his greatest gift because Jesus “fulfills” these laws and prophetic words.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said to his disciples, “Do not think that I have come to destroy the law or the prophets. I have not come to destroy, but to fulfill. Amen I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter, not even the smallest part of the letter will pass away, until all is fulfilled.
Whoever shall break one of these least commandments and teach others to do so, will be called least in the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever shall keep them and teach others to do so, shall be called great in the Kingdom of heaven.
I tell you that unless your goodness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you shall not enter the Kingdom of heaven.

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

1. Jesus makes us God’s children.
2. The disciple must keep God’s word in the law and the prophets.
3. They must, also, teach others to live by God’s word. 
4. Then, they will be great in the Kingdom. They will be both doers and teachers.
5. As disciples, they must go beyond the limited goodness of the scribes and Pharisees.
6. Their tasks are heavy but their reward is great. They will enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

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

• O Jesus, you have made me a child of the Father.
• Train me in your word, O Lord. Plant your truth in my heart.
• Let your word be a lamp for my feet and a guide for my path.
• Give me a zeal to instruct others in your word.
• May your power make me a doer of your word.
• You call me to be great in the Kingdom.  I cherish your invitation.

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

+ I will examine where I do not keep God’s law.
+ I will read the Old Testament to see God’s words to Israel.

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

Whoever keeps these commandments and teaches others will be great in the Kingdom.

SALT AND LIGHT (MT: 5-13-16)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit. Set me as a light on the lampstand.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus instructing his disciples.

Context:.

A disciple is someone who has made a decision to live totally for the Kingdom. In the gospels, Jesus explains what he expects of his disciples. The disciple must be salt, a power against food corrupting. He must also be a light, so men can see God’s goodness reflected in the disciple’s life.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus continued to teach his disciples on the mountain. “You are the salt of the earth.  If the salt loses its flavor, how will it be salted? It is good for nothing except to be cast out and trodden under foot. You are the light of the world.  A city set on a mountaintop cannot be hidden.  Men do not light a candle and put it under a bushel basket, but upon the lampstand, so it can give light to all in the house.  Let your light shine before men so that they can see your good works and glorify your heavenly Father.”

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

1. Jesus does not exaggerate the truth. His disciples will bless the whole world.
2. Jesus warns his disciples. The salt can lose its flavor. The light can be kept hidden.
3. When disciples cease to be disciples, the world trods them under foot. They are useless.
4. By allowing God to change their hearts, the disciple can show the world what God’s power can do.
5. All will glorify the heavenly Father for what he has accomplished in the disciple.
6. Jesus’ plan is very successful. We should follow it more often.

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

• Jesus, you call me to greatness in your Kingdom.
• Give me your salt – a taste for devotion, and a desire for the Kingdom.
• Let me be your candle, burning brightly and set on the highest place.
• Jesus, change my life. Then, I will have good works that shine out to others.
• O Father, all is for your glory!

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

+ What must I do to foster personal devotion? What time should I find for prayer and spiritual reading?
+ I will try to bless others by my good works.

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

You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world set upon a lampstand.

THE FIRST FOUR BEATITUDES (Mt 5:1-12)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit. Form my heart according to Jesus’ teaching.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching the crowds.

Context:.

Jesus calls various groups “blessed”. However, anyone can choose to belong to these groups. A person can be poor in spirit, meek, mourning over the world’s sins, and hungering for justice. So, the door is open to everyone. In all four situations, the person is promised heaven (under different figures of speech).

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Seeing the crowd, Jesus went up the mountain. When he sat down, his disciples came to him and he taught them, saying:
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall possess the land.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for justice.
They shall have their fill.

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

1. When Jesus speaks to the crowds, he invites them into the Kingdom.  Here, he speaks to disciples who are already members of his Kingdom.
2. Because their hearts are set upon the Kingdom, they can understand Jesus’ teaching.
3. A person is “Blessed” by being a member of the Kingdom.
4. A person becomes a member by a personal decision to be poor in spirit, to mourn for the Kingdom, to be merciful, and to hunger for justice.
5. If they persevere in these dispositions, they will receive the full reward of blessedness, an eternal kingdom.

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

• O Jesus, you invite me into your Kingdom.
• O Lord, I accept your offer.
• Reveal to me the Kingdom’s secrets, so I can embrace them.
• O Jesus, if I persevere in my decision, I will be blessed eternally.
• Right now, I give you my heart, my choices, and all my decisions.
• O Spirit of Jesus, form me.  Form me in poverty of spirit, meekness, sorrow for the Kingdom and mercy for all.

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

+ I will allow these teachings to form my thinking.
+ I will rejoice that Jesus calls me “Blessed.”

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

The disciples came to Jesus and he taught them.

HIS BODY AND BLOOD (Jn 6:51-58)

Prayer:

O Jesus, make me hunger for You, the bread of Life.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching to the crowds.

Context:.

These are among the most important verses in the New Testament because they provide a clear teaching on the Eucharist and its power to give eternal life. They are precious to Catholics, explicitly teaching that the Eucharist is Jesus’ body and blood.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said, “If anyone eats of this bread, he shall live forever. The bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world”. The Jews asked, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” Jesus said, “Amen, Amen, I say to you, Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you shall not have life in you.
He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has everlasting life and I will raise him up on the last day. For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood, abides in me and I in him. As the living Father has sent me and I live by the Father, so, whoever eats of me will have life because of me.
This is the bread come down from heaven. Unlike your ancestors who ate and still died, whoever eats this bread will live forever.” Jesus said these things while teaching in Capernaum.

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

1. The words are strikingly clear.  This “bread from heaven” is Jesus’ flesh and blood.
2. Jesus gives an unconditional promise. Whoever eats his flesh and drinks his blood has everlasting life.  Jesus will raise them up on the last day.
3. Jesus also gives a warning.  Unless the person eats his flesh and drinks his blood they will have no life.
4. Jesus explains.  By eating his body and drinking his blood, the person abides in Jesus, just as Jesus abides in the Father.
5. Five times, Jesus teaches that His flesh and blood are the food come down from heaven and that whoever eats will live forever.
6. The message is so important that his disciples remember that He taught this at Capernaum.

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

• Jesus, the Eucharist is your flesh and blood, and I am invited to your table.
• O Jesus, your food gives me eternal life.
• You will raise me up.  Otherwise, I would perish forever.
• Abide with me.  Live in me. Give me your life and I will live forever.
• O Jesus, your words are serious.  If I do not eat this food, I will have no life with you.

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

+ I will try to receive Eucharist every day.
+ I will cherish this sacrament as the food of eternal life.

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

Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood will live forever.

THE WIDOW’S MITE (MK 12:38-44)

Prayer:

O Jesus, to you I give all I have.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus in the temple with his disciples.

Context:.

This gospel joins two different scenes, which describe two contrasting groups.  The scribes want everyone to see their goodness while secretly they steal widows’ money.  The widow, on the contrary, gives her money in secret.  She is the saving hope of Israel.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said to the disciples, “Beware of the scribes who like to walk in long robes and to be saluted in the market-places. They want to sit in the first chairs in the synagogue and to have the places of honor at banquets. They devour the savings of widows and recite long prayers for appearance sake. They will receive the greatest judgment.
Taking a seat opposite the treasury, Jesus saw the people putting their money into the treasury. The wealthy put in sizeable amounts. A poor widow came and put in two mites, worth about a penny. Calling his disciples, Jesus said, “Amen I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all the others. The others put in from their abundance, but she gave from her want, all that she had to live on.”

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

1. Jesus’ criticism of the temple authorities reaches a high point. There is no hope of their repentance.
2. They are hypocrites, wanting to look devout, yet with rapacious hearts.
3. He does not want his disciples to imitate their practices.
4. This temple scene involves money and rich people, whose hearts are still attached to their wealth.
5. The widow is different.  Her gift is total.  She despoils herself, and trusts in God.
6. She is an image of Jesus. In a few days, he will lay down his life for the world.

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

• O Jesus, do not let my heart grow hardened.
• Let me not imitate the world’s selfishness.
• Jesus, I will always be loyal to you and generous to your people.
• Detach my heart from my wealth.  Let me not cling to my possessions.  Empty me.
• I will give you everything, until I have nothing left. Then, we will walk together..

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

+ I will examine my use of money.
+ I will be totally honest and sincere in all my dealings.

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

She has given from her need. All she had to live on.

THE SON OF DAVID (MK 12:35-37)

Prayer:

O Jesus, You alone are my Lord.

Imagination:

Imagine Jesus teaching in the temple.

Context:.

While Jesus is teaching in the temple, he is constantly challenged. After silencing all his critics, he goes on the offensive. He raises the question of the true relationship of David to the Messiah and says that the Messiah is David’s Lord.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

As Jesus was teaching in the temple area he said, “How do the scribes claim that the Messiah is the son of David? David himself, inspired by the Holy Spirit, said:
“The Lord said to my Lord,
Sit at my right hand
Until I place your enemies under your feet.”
If David himself calls him “Lord”, how is he the son of David? The great crowd heard this with delight.

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

1. Israel knew that the Messiah would come from the line of David.
2. Logically, David should be greater than the Messiah, who would only participate in David’s royal power.
3. Jesus challenges this belief.  David himself called the messiah “Lord”.
4. Jesus reveals a startling truth.  The Messiah is greater than David.  He is divine. He is David’s Lord.
5. This messiah will sit at God’s right hand and rule over all his enemies.
6. The scribes do not grasp the greatness of Jesus.
7. The crowds delight to see the scribes vanquished by Jesus’ wisdom.

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

• O Jesus, I know who you are.  You are the eternal Son of God.
• You are the Messiah, the anointed one, the Saviour of all mankind.
• You are “My Lord” and I choose you to rule over me.
• You are greater than David.  You are greater than any earthly king.  You are my king of kings.
• O Jesus, you sit at the Father’s right hand and you have a place for me in your Kingdom.
• You crush all my enemies.  They are “at your feet”.
• I delight in you, Jesus.  I rejoice in who you are and what you do for me.

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

+ I will ask Jesus today to be my king.
+ I will picture Jesus in glory and ask to join him.

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

David himself calls him Lord.

THE SINCERE SCRIBE (MK 12:28-34)

Prayer:

O Jesus, I want to love you with all my heart and soul.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus speaking with this good-willed scribe.

Context:.

This scribe is not hostile. His question is sincere. He searches for the most important commandment. Jesus quotes the great prayer which he himself recited each day. This had brought the scribe close to Jesus’ Kingdom.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

One of the scribes asked Jesus, “Which is the first of all the commandments?”  Jesus replied: “This is the first: ‘Hear, O Israel.  The Lord our God is Lord alone.  You shall love the Lord your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind and all your strength.’  This is the first commandment.             And the second is like to it.  “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.  There are no other commandments greater than these.     The scribe said to Jesus, “Excellent Teacher, you are right in saying, ‘He is one and there is no other than He.’  Yes, to love him with all our heart and all our mind and all our soul and all our strength and to love our neighbor as ourself is worth more than any burnt offering and sacrifice.’
Jesus approved his answer and told him, “You are not far from the reign of God”.  And no one had the courage to ask him any more questions.

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

1. This scribe comes with a docile spirit.  His question is fair and he accepts Jesus answer.
2. To emphasize this total consecration to God alone, Jews multiply images – heart, mind, will, strength.
3. Jesus adds a surprise.  To this great commandment (known by all), he adds a second command, to love our neighbor.
4. In these two commands, Jesus has summed up his whole gospel.
5. The scribe agrees. Loving God and neighbor are more important than even temple sacrifices.
6. The scribe is close to the Kingdom.  Now, he needs only to believe that Jesus is Messiah and Lord.

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

• O Jesus, I consecrate myself to you – heart and mind, soul and strength.  Anything less is unworthy of you.
• O Jesus, give me a spirit docile to your commands.
• O Jesus, when you enter my heart so does the whole world.  Everyone becomes my neighbor.
• You loved totally – even to your death on the cross.
• Love is a total immolation.  O Jesus, I offer you my heart.
• You are love, Jesus. I choose you as the bridegroom of my soul.

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

+ I will set aside time today for God alone.
+ I will love my neighbor in thought, word and deed.

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

Hear, O Israel. The Lord our God is Lord alone.

LIVING LIKE ANGELS (MK 12:18-27)

Prayer:

O Lord, I want to live with you forever in heaven.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus in confrontation with the Sadducees.

Context:.

The Sadducees (unlike the Pharisees) did not believe in the immortality of the soul and the resurrection of the dead. They present to Jesus what seems to us a foolish problem. A woman marries seven times. After each husband dies, she marries again. The Sadducees want to know whose wife she will be in heaven. In refuting their argument, Jesus explains life in heaven.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Some Sadducees confronted Jesus (the ones who do not believe in the resurrection). They spoke of seven brothers who married this woman, beginning with the eldest. Each husband died and, then, the woman died. They asked, “At the resurrection, when they all come back to life, whose wife will she be?”
Jesus said to them, “You are badly misled because you fail to understand the scriptures or the power of God. When people rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage but live like angels in heaven.
As to the raising of the dead, have you not read what Moses wrote in the passage about the burning bush, how God told him, ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob?’ He is the God of the living, not of the dead. You are mistaken.”

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

1. Heaven is much greater than earth.
2. The Sadducees did not realize how God’s power forms our glorified, risen body.
3. Jesus sees heaven in all its reality. To have a spouse and children helps our earthly loneliness. With God in heaven, no one is lonely. All are rejoicing.
4. The risen body enjoys all the privileges of angels.
5. The person is totally changed into a son of the resurrection and a son of God.
6. At the burning bush, God identified himself with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. They had gained heavenly life. This is our goal.

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

• O Jesus, someday you will give me a glorified, risen body, just like yours.
• Jesus, in heaven, my heart will be filled with your love.
• I will not suffer. I will not die. I will live forever, with you, Jesus.
• Help me, Lord, to do everything possible so I am judged worthy of this “age to come”.
• You will change me, Jesus. By your resurrection, I will be a son of glory and a son of the eternal Father.
• You will give me life in abundance. I will watch and wait for your coming.

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

+ Today, I will think often of my heavenly home.
+ I will think of what steps I can take to be found worthy.

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

They live like angels in heaven.

RENDER TO GOD WHAT IS GOD’S (Mk 12:13-17)

Prayer:

O Lord, let me give you everything.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus confronted by the Pharisees.

Context:.

Israel had two political groups. One sought total allegiance to Rome. Others sought independence, even by war if necessary. The Pharisees, by this question, hope to trip Jesus, forcing him to take one political position or another. By using the coin, Jesus evades the question, and gives a clear principal to decide these political questions.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

The Pharisees talked among themselves about how to ensnare Jesus in speech. They sent their disciples with the Herodians saying, ‘Master, we know you are truthful and teach God’s way sincerely. You seek no one’s favor and do not act out of human respect. Therefore, tell us what you think. Is it lawful to pay tribute to Caesar or not? Jesus, knowing their hypocrisy said, “Why do you tempt me, you hypocrites? Show me the coin used for the tax.”
When they handed him a small Roman coin, he asked them, “Whose inscription is this?” “Caesar’s”, they replied. He said, “Then give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” Their amazement knew no bounds.

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

1. The Pharisees are not open to Jesus’ word because they have their own ideas.
2. They begin with flattery, trying to hide their inner wickedness.
3. What they say is true. Jesus is truthful, a man from God, who does not seek human favor.
4. Jesus reads their hearts. They are hypocrites, pretending to be his friend but ready to betray him.
5. They bring forth their deadly question, which is meant to destroy Jesus’ popularity.
6. Jesus’ wisdom is greater and he wins the debate.
7. What is important is that we give God all we owe.

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

• Jesus, change my heart, make it open to your word.
• Reveal my inner wickedness. Strip me of all pretense. Let me stand naked in your truth.
• O Jesus, you have come from God and you have returned to God. You are my way to the Father.
• O Jesus, I surrender all my rights into your loving hands. Whom else should I trust?
• What do I owe you, Lord? Everything!

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

+ I will see Jesus as the One sent by the Father.
+ I will give Jesus all that is his.

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

Render to God, what is God’s.

THE WICKED TENANTS (MK 12:1-12)

Prayer:

O Jesus, I will give you all of the harvest.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with His disciples.

Context:.

Jesus bases this parable upon actual circumstances. In Galilee there were many foreign owners who leased the land to tenants. God is the owner and these tenants are the Scribes who claim to possess God’s word. However, they kill the Son so that the owner will give the vineyard to new tenants. This is a crisis parable which is meant to wake you up!

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

A man planted a vineyard and then leased it out to tenant farmers and went on a journey. In due time, he dispatched a man to gain his share of the produce.
However, they beat him and sent him off empty handed. He sent another. They beat him shamefully. He sent another and they killed him. He sent even more. They beat some and killed others.
Finally, he sent his only son thinking that they would show him respect. But the tenants said to one another, “This one will inherit everything. Let us kill him and the vineyard will be ours.”
What will the owner of the vineyard do? He will destroy those tenants and give the vineyard over to others.

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

1. God has given you the vineyard of your faith. He expects the fruits of worship and goodness.
2. He sends preachers and teachers to remind you of your duties. Do not ignore them.
3. He sends interior messengers, his inspirations within you. Do not reject them.
4. He sends the light of your conscience. Do not extinguish this.
5. Finally, he sends a Fear of the Lord. What do you do with that?
6. Wake up or else you will lose your faith and your immortal soul.

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

• Jesus, I thank you for my faith.
• You have given me the vineyard of eternal life.
• What do you want of me, O Lord, so I can be your faithful tenant?
• O Jesus, let me never forget that you are the owner of my soul.
• Send your messengers, O Lord. Ask for all the rent you want. I will give anything to remain in your vineyard!

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

+ I will give God his share of this day. I will pray and help others.
+ I will find time to thank God for my gift of faith.

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

All the owner wanted was his rent.

SENT INTO THE WORLD (Jn 3:16-21)

Prayer:

O Jesus, you were lifted up on the cross to save me.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching Nicodemus.

Context:.

This gospel contains the famous John 3:16 verse about God so loving the world. It explains that God’s motive was to save, not to condemn. However, anyone who rejects this light is subject to God’s judgment.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said to Nicodemus, “Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up so that whoever believes in him may not perish, but may have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, so that whoever believes in him may not perish but may have everlasting life. God did not send his Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved by him.
Whoever believes in him, will not be condemned but whoever does not believe in him is already condemned because he does not believe in the name of God’s only Son.
The Judgment is this. The light came into the world and men loved the darkness rather than the light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who practices evil hates the light. He does not come near it so his deeds are not exposed. But whoever acts in truth comes into the light so his works can be clearly seen as done in the light.

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

1. When the Israelites in the desert disobeyed God, they grew sick from a serpent’s bite.
2. God provided the remedy. When Moses nailed a bronze serpent to a cross, whoever gazed on it was saved. (Numbers C21)
3. This story prefigured Jesus being lifted up on the cross to save us.
4. God sent Jesus because “he so loved the world”.
5. Through faith in Jesus, all can be saved.
6. Jesus is the eternal light.
7. Evil people do not want this light. It reveals their deeds.
8. Good people rejoice to have their deeds revealed. They act in truth.

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

• Jesus, you were lifted up on the cross for me.
• Only your cross can save me from eternal death.
• Father, loving me so much, you sacrificed your Son to save me.
• I believe. I accept you, Jesus. You are the Father’s only begotten Son.
• Come Jesus. Reveal my heart. Make me a child of light.
• Open my heart to light and truth.

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

+ I will thank Jesus for dying on the cross.
+ I will bring all my sins into Jesus’ light.

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

God so loved the world that he gave his only Son.

WHAT ABOUT JOHN’S BAPTISM? (MK 11:27-33)

Prayer:

O Jesus, you have all authority in heaven and earth.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching in the temple, confronted by the authorities.

Context:.

The day before this event, Jesus had cleansed the temple. As he returns to Jerusalem, the temple authorities want to know by what authority he took that action. He avoids a question about his authority by confronting the leaders about John the Baptist’s authority.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

When Jesus came into the temple, the chief priests and the elders asked, “By what authority do you do these things? Who has given you the authority?
Jesus responded, “I have a question. If you answer it, I will tell you by what authority I do these things. Where did the Baptism of John come from? Did it come from man or from heaven?
They thought within, “If we say from heaven, he will ask ‘Then, why did you not believe?’ But if we say, ‘From men’, we are afraid of the crowds because all believed that John was a prophet.” So they said to Jesus, “We do not know”. Jesus said to them, “Then, neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things.”

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

1. The temple leaders should have been the most receptive toward Jesus’ ministry.
2. In fact, their hardness of hearts and resistance was the greatest.
3. The temple needed a cleansing and the leaders resented Jesus’ purifying action.
4. So, they attack the messenger, and try to discredit his message.
5. However, they had already made one mistake. The people accepted John the Baptist and they rejected him.
6. Jesus’ question burns their hearts.  They know they were wrong and have no answer.
7. If they were mistaken about John, there is no need to reply to their question.  They are discredited.

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

• O Jesus, make my heart receptive to your word.
• Cleanse my temple, Lord.  I will not object at all.
• O Jesus, you have all authority.  Your every word is eternal life.
• O Lord, forgive my past mistakes and lead me on your path.
• Burn my heart with the fire of your love.
• I am making no mistake.  You are Messiah and Lord.

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

+ I will give Jesus total authority over my life.
+ I will admit my past mistakes so I do not repeat them.

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

By what authority do you do these things?