Author: Flame of Love

WHAT ABOUT JOHN’S BAPTISM? (MT 21:23-27)

Prayer:

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

Imagination:

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

Context:

The day before, Jesus had cleansed the temple. As he comes back, the temple authorities want to know by what authority he took that action. Jesus avoids answering this question. Instead, he shames the leaders. They are embarrassed by their mistakes concerning 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 authorities also strenuously resisted Jesus’ message.
2. The temple needed a cleansing and the leaders resented Jesus’ purifying action.
3. They attack the messenger, trying to discredit Jesus.
4. However, they had foolishly resisted John the Baptist whom the people had accepted.
5. Jesus’ reply catches them off-guard.  They know they were wrong the first time.
6. If they were mistaken about John, they are probably mistaken about Jesus.
7. Jesus does not need to reply.  They are discredited.

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

• Cleanse my temple, Lord.  I will not object at all.
• Jesus, I will not resist your message.
• Jesus, you have all authority.  Your every word is eternal life.
• Lord, do not let me repeat past mistakes.
• My choosing you is no mistake.  You are Messiah and Lord.
• Your message is from heaven, where you will take me soon.

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

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

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

Did John’s message come from men or from heaven?

MESSENGERS FROM JOHN (MT 11:2-6)

Prayer:

O Jesus, let me always believe in You.

Imagination:

Picture John’s disciples questioning Jesus.

Context:

John, in prison, heard about the works which Christ performed and sent two disciples to Jesus to ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or do we look for another?” John probably had doubts because he thought the messiah would be quite different. Jesus cites all these healings because Isaiah prophesied them as signs of the Messiah.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

John’s disciples came to him and told him all that was happening in Jesus’ ministry. John sent two of them to Jesus. When they arrived, they asked him, “Are you the one who is to come, or do we look for another?” At that very hour, Jesus was curing many people of their diseases, sufferings and evil spirits. He also gave sight to many who were blind.
Jesus said, “Go and tell John what you have heard and seen. The blind see. The lame walk. The lepers are made clean. The deaf hear. The dead rise. The poor have the gospel preached to them. Blessed is that person who is not scandalized about my ministry.”

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

1. John sits in prison, his life’s work almost completed. 
2. He is filled with doubts.  Was he correct in pointing out Jesus as the Messiah?
3. He has an important question.  Are you the Messiah?  Are you the one who is to come?
4. Jesus presents all the evidence.  He heals the blind, the lame and the lepers.   Even the dead rise and testify to Jesus.
5. The gospel does not record the effect of these words upon John or his disciples.
6. Matthew recorded this story for us, so that we believe.
7. God will always do things his way.  Do not be scandalized by God’s plan.

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

• O Jesus, in my doubts, I will come to you.
• O Jesus, You present all the evidence.  I know you are the Messiah.
• You heal.  You cure.  You raise from the dead.
• Jesus, do your work in me.  I await your touch.
• I will be still.  I will watch for you.  When you finish your work, I will understand what you are doing.
• You are not a stumbling block.  You are the way to the Father.

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

+ I will ponder the evidence in the gospels.
+ I will believe in Jesus, no matter what confusion arises.

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

Go and tell John all that you have seen and heard.

THE NEW ELIJAH (MT 17:9 10-13)

Prayer:

O Jesus, help me to see the Father’s saving plan.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus coming down the mountain with Peter, James and John.

Context:

These three apostles have just seen the transfigured Jesus speaking with Moses and Elijah on the mountaintop. This experience leads them to bring up a popular religious question about Elijah, namely that he will return before the Messiah. Jesus’ answer is startling.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

As they were coming down the mountain, his disciples asked Jesus, “Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first? “ Jesus answered them, ‘Indeed, Elijah must come first and restore all things. However, I say to you that Elijah has already come and they did not recognize him. They did to him whatever they pleased.”
The disciples understood that Jesus was talking about John the Baptist.

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

1. John the Baptist begins the timetable for Jesus’ ministry.
2. The three apostles, as devout Jews, know the prophecy about Elijah returning before the coming of the Messiah.
3. This mysterious figure “Elijah”, the greatest of the Old Testament prophets, was to proclaim the Messiah.
4. By sending John the Baptist, the Father fulfilled this prophecy.
5. The Jews made a mistake.  They did not recognize John as the new Elijah.
6. They will also fail to see Jesus as the Messiah.
7. The disciples do not miss the point.  John was Elijah and Jesus is certainly the Messiah.

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

• O Father, all of my life is according to your timetable.
• You send messengers to me. These turn my heart to your spiritual world.
• Having heard them, my heart must receive Jesus.
• You leave no doubt.  You make me certain.  Jesus, you are the Messiah.
• O Jesus, I recognize you.  I know who you are.  I have full certainty.  You are my Lord and God.
• I give myself to you in full confidence.

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

+ I will use each day well because God has his divine plan.
+ I will accept those whom God sends me to prepare my heart.

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

Elijah has already come and they did not recognize him!

MARY’S QUESTIONING AND ACCEPTANCE (LK 1:26-38)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit. Help me to say “Yes” to God’s plan.

Imagination:

Picture Mary speaking with the Angel.

Context:

Luke records the greatest moment in human history, when God becomes flesh in Mary’s womb. This text highlights Mary’s struggle to understand the mystery. Once all is clear, she quickly consents.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

The angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin named Mary. The angel said, “Do not fear, Mary. You have found favor with God. You shall conceive and bear a son and give him the name Jesus. Great will be his dignity and he will be called Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of David, his father. He will rule over the house of Jacob forever and his reign will be without end.
Mary said to the angel, “How can this be because I do not know man?” The angel explained, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Most High shall overshadow you. The child will be called holy, the Son of God. Know that Elizabeth, your relative, has conceived a son in her old age. She who was called barren, is now in her sixth month because nothing is impossible to God.”
Mary said, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord. Let it be done to me according to your word.” At this, the angel left her.

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

1. Mary knew that God called her to be a virgin.  Now, the angel speaks of her becoming a mother.
2. The angel explains how both are true.  The Holy Spirit will overshadow her, making her both mother and virgin.
3. This message overwhelms Mary.
4. Because Mary must accept her privilege, the angel describes God’s miracle in Elizabeth.
5. The angel concludes, “Nothing is impossible to God.”
6. Mary’s human mind quickly understands that God will do the impossible.
7. She surrenders completely, “Let it be done to me according to your word.”

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

• O Father, what is your plan for me?
• O Jesus, I cannot always understand your favors.
• Mary, teach me how to search for answers.
• O Spirit, reveal God’s mysteries in my life.
• O God, nothing is impossible for you.
• Mary, engrave your response on my heart, “Let I be done to me according to your word.”

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

+ This day, I will surrender to God’s plan.
+ I will believe that nothing is impossible for God.

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

Let it be done to me according to your word.

THE GREATNESS OF JOHN (MT 11:11-15)

Prayer:

O Jesus, prepare me for the greatness of your Kingdom.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus talking to his disciples about John.

Context:

John is the greatest of the Old Testament prophets. Yet, because he did not live to see Jesus’ Kingdom, the least in Jesus’ Kingdom is greater than John. An extraordinary proclamation! Just as extraordinary is Jesus saying that he fulfills the prophecies about Elijah.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said, “I solemnly assure you, history has not known a man born of woman greater than John the Baptist. Yet the least born into the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven suffers violence and the violent take it away. All of the prophets as well as the law spoke prophetically until John. If you are prepared to accept this, he is the Elijah who was certain to come. Heed carefully what you hear.”

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

1. Jesus benefitted greatly from the preaching of John who stirred the crowds to religious fervor.
2. Jesus sees all of Israel’s history and declares that John is the greatest “born of woman.”
3. Jesus also sees the future Kingdom. Surprisingly, even the least in that new Kingdom will surpass John.
4. The Kingdom is yours. Don’t let the world use violence to steal it from you.
5. God’s prophecies are fulfilled.
6. Since John is the new Elijah, the forerunner, Jesus is the Messiah of Israel.

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

• Thank you, Lord, that I was born after you established your kingdom.
• O Jesus, how many prepared the way for me to know you.
• O Jesus, what is my place in history? Show me my role in your Kingdom.
• Do not let the world steal the Kingdom from my heart.
• Make me the least in your Kingdom. This is my greatest desire.
• All the prophecies are fulfilled. You are the true Messiah.

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

+ I will thank God today for all who have prepared me for my Catholic faith.
+ I will cherish being a member of the kingdom of heaven.

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

The least born into the Kingdom of heaven is greater than he.

THE EASY YOKE (MT 11:28-30)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit. Help me to take up Jesus’ easy yoke and light burden.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus inviting all his disciples to come to him.

Context:

The burdened are those who cannot seem to get out from under. Jesus is one of them. He carries the whole world on his shoulders. Jesus’ yoke is his submission to God’s will. This is the lightest possible burden. Why carry any other?

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Come to me all you who labor and are burdened and I will give you rest. Take up my yoke and learn of me, for I am meek and humble of heart and you shall find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

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

1. How many labors and burdens do you carry?
2. Jesus invites you. He promises you rest. Come to him.
3. Put aside your other burdens. Then, you can take up Jesus’ yoke. This is your true task in life.
4. If you know Jesus, you will think and feel like Jesus.
5. You will find Him gentle and humble, and will experience peace.

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

• O Jesus, I have so many labors and so many burdens!
• Jesus, you say, “Come to me.” I am coming. I am coming quickly.
• Jesus, you are totally intent on helping me.
• Jesus, I will gladly carry your yoke and your burden.
• Your burdens are so much easier than what I now carry.
• In the world, I find restlessness. In your Kingdom I discover peace.
• You always speak the truth. You fulfill all your promises. I can trust your words.

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

+ I will examine any worldly burdens which I have foolishly assumed.
+ I will choose the tasks that Jesus has for me. For these, I was created.

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

Come to me for my yoke is easy and my burden light.

THE LOST SHEEP (Mt 18:12-14)

Prayer:

O Jesus, come and find me.

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. Matthew’s gospel stresses the shepherd’s unwearied search. Here, Luke’s gospel centers on God’s joy on the last day.
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)

Jesus told this parable to the Pharisees and the scribes. 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.

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.  Your saints called you “made”, 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.

MARY’S QUESTIONING AND ACCEPTANCE (LK 1:26-38)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit. Help me to say “Yes” to God’s plan.

Imagination:

Picture Mary speaking with the Angel.

Context:

Luke records the greatest moment in human history, when God becomes flesh in Mary’s womb. This text highlights Mary’s struggle to understand the mystery. Once all is clear, she quickly consents.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

The angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin named Mary. The angel said, “Do not fear, Mary. You have found favor with God. You shall conceive and bear a son and give him the name Jesus. Great will be his dignity and he will be called Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of David, his father. He will rule over the house of Jacob forever and his reign will be without end.
Mary said to the angel, “How can this be because I do not know man?” The angel explained, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the Most High shall overshadow you. The child will be called holy, the Son of God. Know that Elizabeth, your relative, has conceived a son in her old age. She who was called barren, is now in her sixth month because nothing is impossible to God.”
Mary said, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord. Let it be done to me according to your word.” At this, the angel left her.

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

1. Mary knew that God called her to be a virgin.  Now, the angel speaks of her becoming a  mother.
2. The angel explains how both are true.  The Holy Spirit will overshadow her, making her both mother and virgin.
3. This message overwhelms Mary.
4. Because Mary must accept her privilege, the angel describes God’s miracle in Elizabeth.
5. The angel concludes, “Nothing is impossible to God.”
6. Mary’s human mind quickly understands that God will do the impossible.
7. She surrenders completely, “Let it be done to me according to your word.”

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

• O Father, what is your plan for me?
• O Jesus, I cannot always understand your favors.
• Mary, teach me how to search for answers.
• O Spirit, reveal God’s mysteries in my life.
• O God, nothing is impossible for you.
• Mary, engrave your response on my heart, “Let I be done to me according to your word.”

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

+ This day, I will surrender to God’s plan.
+ I will believe that nothing is impossible for God.

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

Let it be done to me according to your word.

THE ADVENT PREACHER (MT 3:1-12)

Prayer:

O Jesus, awaken me. Your Kingdom is at hand.

Imagination:

Picture John preaching at the Jordan.

Context:

John the Baptist is the Advent preacher. He shows up every year at this time and stays for two Sundays. He has one task – “to prepare the way of the Lord.” Then, he will step aside for Mary and Joseph who usher in the great Christmas mystery.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

When John the Baptist made his appearance as a preacher in the desert, this was his theme, “Reform your lives. The reign of God is at hand.” Isaiah had spoken about John when he said, “A voice of one crying in the desert. Prepare ye the way of the Lord. Make straight his paths.”
John wore a garment of camel hair with a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. People from Jerusalem and Judea and all the country around the Jordan went out to him. They were baptized in the Jordan, confessing their sins.
He said, “I baptize you in water for the sake of reform but the one who will follow me is stronger than I. His shoes I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you in the Holy Spirit and fire.”

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

1. John was prepared by a life of prayer and fasting. 
2. When God’s word filled him, he knew exactly what to say.
3. The people had to be made ready because the King was coming.
4. They needed to repent, to be cleansed, to confess their sins and be baptized.
5. His garments and his food show his total dedication to the Kingdom. 
6. The people easily believed when he said, “The reign of God is at hand.”
7. Another preacher would come.  Even stronger.  He would baptize in the fire of the Holy Spirit.
8. He would be so holy that even John would be unworthy.

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

• O Jesus, help me to prepare.
• Teach me to pray and fast, and to set aside the little comforts.
• You are the King.  You are coming.  You will not delay.
• O Jesus, I need to repent and to confess my sins.  Let me do that now.
• Make me like John the Baptist, totally dedicated to the coming of your Kingdom.
• Jesus, you are the Strong One, able to send the Spirit’s fire upon me. 
• Jesus, you are the Holy One who would make me holy. 

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

+ I will make this a prayerful Advent, especially in my home.
+ I will bring faith to others, awakening them in his holy season.

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

A voice crying in the desert, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord.”

THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD’S REIGN (MT 9:35-10:8)

Prayer:

O Jesus, your goodness is everywhere.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with his disciples, healing the crowds.

Context:

The advent gospels are filled with Jesus’ compassion and power. That compassion brings forth physical healings and makes Jesus a shepherd to the poor. Unable to do all by himself, he shares his powers with the twelve.

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, and 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 a 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 loves Israel, his people. The disciples must go there first. Time is limited.
6. They must preach his message that 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.”

HEALING THE BLIND (MT 9:27-31)

Prayer:

O Jesus, make me confident that you can make me see.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with His disciples.

Context:

After raising the little girl to life, Jesus encounters two blind men. They give him the Messianic title, “Son of David” and proclaim that they have confidence that he can heal them Filled with joy after being healed, they disobey Jesus and tell everyone the good news. That is Advent – a time to tell everyone that the Lord is coming.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Two blind men cried out, saying, “Son of David, have mercy on us”. When Jesus got to the house, they caught up with him. Jesus said, “Do you believe that I can do this for you?” They said, “Yes, Lord”.
Then he touched their eyes saying, ‘Let it be done to you according to your faith”. Their eyes were opened and Jesus strictly told them, “See that no one knows of this.” But they went and spread his fame all over the countryside.

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

1. The men are determined. First, they meet Jesus. Then, they follow him to the house. They will not be put off.
2. They know he is the Messiah. He is the “Son of David”, the promised one.
3. How fortunate that he came to their village.
4. Jesus questions them directly. Do they believe he can do this?
5. He is their Lord, certainly he can heal them.
6. Jesus’ creating hand touches them. Power pours out “according to their faith.”
7. The healing proves that they did have faith.
8. Jesus wants to remain unknown but their joy is too great. They tell everyone. It is like Christmas.

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

• O Jesus, I will follow you. I will pursue you, no matter where you go.
• You are the Messiah. The fullness of Davidic power resides in you.
• Jesus, how fortunate I am when faith stirs within me!
• Have mercy on me, Jesus. Have mercy on me.
• “Do I believe?” you ask. How can I not believe”? I know your power.
• Fill me with Advent expectancy.
• Bless me and I will tell the whole world.

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

+ During Advent, I will try to speak of Jesus.
+ I will honestly examine the parts of my life built upon sand.

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

Let it be done to you according to your faith.

THE PARABLE OF THE TWO HOUSES (MT 7:24-27)

Prayer:

O Jesus, I will put your word into practice so my house will always stand.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with His disciples.

Context:

Jesus chooses an example from the people’s daily experiences. In Israel, the rains come suddenly. A dry canal becomes quickly a raging stream. This parable is an excellent example of the sudden, unexpected moment of trial or judgment.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Everyone who hears my words and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rains fell. The floods came. The winds blew against that house, but it did not fall for it was founded on rock.

Everyone who hears my words and does not act on them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rains fell. The floods came. The winds blew against that house. It collapsed and its fall was total.

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

1. Jesus speaks this parable to believers who have heard his words.
2. Some are wise enough to put the words into practice. Others are foolish and do not live out the words.
3. Both houses are the same. The difference lies in their foundations on strong rock or on weak sand.
4. The wind, the rains and the floodings are the moment of truth, the time of reckoning. Both houses experience the same destructive powers.
5. The results are completely opposite. One remains unharmed. The other collapses.
6. Jesus warning is stark and evident. You must build your life on God’s word.

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

• Jesus, I have your word. I know your teaching. I will act. I will put into practice.
• Jesus, your word is abundant. I will act on it and put it into practice.
• O Lord, what do I build my life on? The rock of your teaching or the sand of my desires?
• Let your word, O Lord, penetrate my heart!
• How can I build my life on your word, unless I meditate on it daily.
• O Lord, if I live by your word, my life will not collapse.

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

+ I will apply these meditations to my daily way of acting.
+ I will honestly examine the parts of my life built upon sand.

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

The wise man built his house upon rock.

MULTIPLIED BLESSINGS (MT 15:29-37)

Prayer:

O Jesus, let me hunger for your food.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus and his disciples with the hungry crowds.

Context:

The multiplication of food is the only miracle told in all four gospels. It is preceded by multiple healings. These stories highlight the Advent season when we await the Lord who comes with countless blessings, distributed freely to those who await him.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Large crowds came to Jesus, bringing with them the cripples, the deformed, the blind, the mute and many others besides. They laid them at his feet and he cured them. The crowds marveled to see the mute speaking and the deformed made whole, cripples walking about and the blind seeing. They glorified the God of Israel.
Jesus called together his disciples, “I have compassion on the crowd because they have been with me three days with nothing to eat. I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint on the way. The disciples answered, “Where can we find so many loaves in this deserted place to feed so many? Jesus asked, “How many loaves do you have? They said, “Seven and a few little fishes.”
He commanded the crowd to sit down, and taking the seven loaves and the fishes, giving thanks, he broke and gave to his disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and had their fill, and seven baskets of fragments were left over.

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

1. Each person has a need. Some are sick. Some are hungry. Jesus takes care of them all.
2. The crowds show great faith. They take extraordinary efforts to bring the crippled and the blind to this deserted place.
3. They know the source of the healings. They place their sick at Jesus’ feet.
4. The crowds do not complain of their hunger. They have freely chosen to stay three days.
5. Seeing their fatigue, Jesus initiates the multiplication. The scene is like the Last Supper. Jesus takes bread, blesses, breaks and gives to the disciples.
6. An abundance results. All are satisfied. The seven baskets left over are meant for us.

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

• O Jesus, when will I learn to place all my needs at your feet?
• My faith draws me to you. Nothing will keep me back.
• Your power is unlimited, going forth to whomever draws near.
• You are thoughtful, Jesus. Even when I do not ask, you provide.
• Your Eucharist is every day. I will come to the table.
• Jesus, I will gather up all your blessings. None will go to waste.

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

+ Today, I will bring my greatest need to Jesus. It is Advent and I must believe.
+ I will receive Holy Communion as often as possible during this season.

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

The crowd marveled to see the mute speaking and the cripples walking.

REVEALED TO THE CHILDREN (LK 10:21-24)

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, give me a humble and accepting heart.

Imagination:

Imagine Jesus reprimanding his disciples.

Context:

Jesus sent out 72 disciples to proclaim the Kingdom. They have just returned with all the good news of their successes. This text is filled with rejoicing. Advent, unlike Lent, is a time to rejoice because “The Lord is near.”

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 because the disciples are understanding the Kingdom.
2. This understanding is withheld from the worldly wise and prudent.
3. Jesus credits his heavenly Father, who has revealed these mysteries to the little ones.
4. Jesus has the power to reveal even the Father himself.
5. Jesus will reveal these mysteries to all.  First, they must become his disciple.

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

• Jesus, reveal to me the mysteries of the Kingdom.
• Even more, reveal the Father himself.
• As my heart is caught up with the Father, You will rejoice in me.
• 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 the mysteries of Jesus’ Kingdom.

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

The Son reveals the Father to whomever he wishes.

A CENTURION WITH GREAT FAITH (MT 8:5-11)

Prayer:

O Jesus, fill me with faith in your power.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with the Centurion.

Context:

Advent is a time of faith and the church selects the Gentile centurion as the first model. He believed that Jesus could heal at a distance (unheard of in Judaism). Even Jesus proclaims his extraordinary faith.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

When Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him saying, “Lord, my servant is at home in bed paralyzed suffering painfully.” Jesus said, “I will come and heal him. The centurion answered, “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but say but the word and my servant shall be healed. I also am a man subject to authority, having soldiers under me. I say to this one, “Go” and he goes. To another, “Come” and he comes. To my servant “Do this” and he does it.”
Hearing this, Jesus was amazed and said to the crowd who followed him. “Amen I say to you that I have not found such great faith in Israel. Many shall come from the east and the west, and shall sit down with Abraham and Isaac and Jacob in the Kingdom of heaven, while the natural heirs will be cast out into the dark.”

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

1. The centurion has complete and total faith in Jesus’ power to heal.
2. Jesus is totally aware of his own powers. He proclaims “I will come and heal him.”
3. The centurion is extraordinary for his great humility (I am not worthy) and for his faith (that Jesus could heal at a distance).
4. Jesus proclaims that he has never seen Jewish people with that level of belief.
5. Jesus predicts that many Gentiles will enter the Kingdom by having the same faith.

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

• Jesus, I will come to you in all my needs.
• O Jesus, your power can accomplish all things, anywhere and anytime.
• Nothing limits your power.
• Jesus, I am not worthy but you will act in my soul.
• Your Kingdom is open to all. The whole world is invited.
• Just speak your word, Jesus and I will be healed.
• O Jesus, place great faith in my heart.

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

+ Today I will bring to Jesus all that needs to be healed – my body, my soul, my relationships, my memories.
+ I will have great desires to be at Jesus’ banquet.

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

I have not found such great faith in all of Israel.

NOT PREPARED FOR THE COMING (MT 24:37-44)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit, prepare for Jesus’ coming.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus warning His disciples to be alert.

Context:

Strangely enough, we begin the liturgical year with Jesus speaking about how to prepare for the end of the world. He uses Noah as an example. He prepared for the sudden flood, and we, too, will be taken suddenly from our daily situation.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said to his disciples, “The coming of the Son of Man will repeat what happened in Noah’s time. In the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and being married, right up to the day that Noah entered the ark. They were totally unconcerned until the flood came and destroyed them.
So will it be at the coming of the Son of Man. Two men will be in the field. One will be taken and one will be left. Two women will be grinding meal. One will be taken and another left. Stay awake, therefore, you cannot know the day that the Lord is coming.
Be sure of this: if the owner of the house knew when the thief was coming, he would watch and not allow his house to be broken into. You, also, must be ready, because at the hour you do not know, the Son of Man will come.

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

1. Eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage are daily activities of normal life.
2. Unfortunately, a flood was coming.  Noah alone knew how to prepare.
3. Noah symbolizes the suddenness of Jesus’ return and the need to watch.
4. The person taken is the disciple who enters the Kingdom.
5. The person left behind will not get in.
6. Since no one knows when the thief comes, the owner must keep watch.

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

• O Jesus, when will you come for me?
• I must watch for you.
• O Jesus, too much buying and selling, eating and drinking, fill my day.
• I must set them aside.
• Teach me to prepare today for your coming.
• Can I not find time for you?
• Help me, Jesus.  I treasure your kingdom.
• Come soon, while I am still watching.

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

+ I will make time every day for mental prayer.
+ I will not be absorbed in buying, selling, eating and drinking.

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

You must be ready.

FINAL WORDS OF ADVICE (LK 21:34-36)

Prayer:

O Jesus, teach me to watch and to pray constantly.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus in the temple teaching his disciples.

Context:

Jesus is worried.  He will not be returning to earth soon and the disciples will wonder why he delays.  So, he exhorts them not to grow indulgent, not to give up prayer or their high moral standards.  These final words before the Last Supper are an important reminder.  Whether it is sooner or later, all the world will stand before him.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said to his disciples, “Be on guard, lest your spirits become bloated with indulgence and drunkenness and worldly cares, and that day come upon you suddenly, like a trap. That day will come upon the whole earth.
Watch, therefore. Pray at all times, so you may have the strength to escape what will happen and to stand secure before the Son of Man.

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

1. “That day”, means the moment when all will be judged by Jesus.
2. Because Jesus’ Second Coming didn’t happen right away, some disciples abandoned their devout life and their watchfulness.
3. They became indifferent, drunk and involved with worldly cares.
4. They fell into a trap which entangles everyone who abandons Jesus’ Kingdom.  Inevitably they will be trapped by something.
5. Jesus explains the remedy.  They must watch their conduct and pray constantly.
6. Jesus’ coming is inevitable.  History will end in this way.  All must seek one thing – to stand secure before the Son of Man. 
7. These are Jesus’ final words. Remember them.

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

• O Jesus, what a day that will be, when every human person will stand before you.
• O Lord, how quickly my life will pass.  Do not let me fall into indulgence or give my heart to worldly cares.
• I will watch with you.  That is what you ask of me.
• Teach me to pray. Teach me to pray constantly.
• How will I be secure on that day, Jesus?  I know.  I will live always in your hands.

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

+ When am I indulgent and entangled in worldly cares? I will take action.
+ I will pray mentally every day.

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

Pray constantly for the strength to stand before the Son of Man.

THE EVENTS ARE NEAR (LK 21:29-33)

Prayer:

O Jesus, help me to act now. So much is about to happen.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching his disciples.

Context:

Jesus has just predicted the fall of Jerusalem and declared that, at a given moment, he will come on clouds of glory. Because people think that this cosmic event is far off, they push the warning aside. So, Jesus must add this image of the fig tree which says that summer is near.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus told his disciples a parable, “Look at the fig tree and all the other trees. When you see them sending forth their shoots, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see these things happen, know that the Kingdom of God is at hand. Amen I say to you, the present generation will not pass away until all these things take place. The heavens and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

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

1. Jesus knows that delay wears down his disciples. His words lose their effectiveness.
2. The fig tree is a perfect example. In winter, no tree looks more dead. Yet, so quickly, it comes alive, surprising everyone.
3. No one needs special knowledge. When trees blossom, everyone knows that summer is close.
4. Jesus has an important conclusion. When persecution comes and when the Kingdom seems to have lost its power, that is the moment of closeness.
5. The Kingdom is always near. God’s reign is always at hand. Suddenly and surprisingly, the moment of Jesus’ presence comes upon those gathered in faith.
6. Someday the whole world will disappear but Jesus’ words will never lose their power.

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

• O Jesus, when I grow tired, weary and discouraged, give me new life.
• Let your Spirit breathe upon me and his fire leap up.
• You are always coming to me. Your Kingdom is always at hand.
• Just when I am losing life, you surprise me. Your Spirit suddenly stirs within.
• You whisper to me, “I am never far away. I am always near”.
• You are my hope. You will never pass away. Never fail me. Never abandon me.

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

+ I will live in great hope today that the Kingdom is at hand.
+ I will recall my favorite words of Jesus.

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

Know that the Kingdom of God is at hand.

THE JERUSALEM DESTRUCTION (LK 21:20-28)

Prayer:

O Jesus, be with us in times of disasters.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus explaining to his disciples the fall of Jerusalem.

Context:

Jesus prophesied that the Romans would destroy Jerusalem, which they did in 70 A.D. Luke wrote his gospel fifteen years after this destruction. However, these words were very important to the earlier believers. They heeded Jesus’ advice to “flee to the mountains” and were saved from death.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said to his disciples, “When you see Jerusalem surrounded by an army, then know that the desolation is near. Those in Judea should flee to the mountains. Those in the middle of the city must escape. Those in the country must not return. These are the days of vengeance when all that is written will be fulfilled.
Woe to the women who are with child or are nursing at the breast. There will be great distress in the land and great wrath upon the people. People will fall beneath the sword and they will be led captive to the nations. Jerusalem will be trampled by the Gentiles, until the time of the Gentiles is fulfilled. There will be signs in the sun, the moon and the stars. On the earth, nature will be in anguish due to the roaring of the waves and the sea. Men will die of fear in anticipation of what is coming upon the earth, for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.
Then, men will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud, with great power and majesty. When these things begin to happen, look up. Lift up your heads because your redemption is near at hand.”

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

1. What powerful verses and gigantic prophecies! Jesus prophesies of two different events, the Roman destruction of Jerusalem and his Second Coming at the end of the world.
2. The believers could escape Jerusalem if they knew, believed and acted on Jesus’ words. Thousands did just that.
3. Jesus’ words were totally fulfilled. People either died by the sword or were taken into captivity. Only the believers were saved.
4. The Second Coming is different. No one can escape. However, those without Jesus will die of fright.
5. Those with Jesus will rejoice.
6. They will see Jesus coming, the One whom they preached and suffered for.

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

• O Jesus, how important are your words. Place them in my heart.
• O Jesus, save me from the disasters and catastrophes. Otherwise, I will be overwhelmed.
• Jesus, without you I would die by the sword of afflictions.
• Some day soon, you will come for me.
• Come, Lord Jesus. I will lift up my head and welcome you.
• For you I live. For you I will toil until you come.

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

+ In all my difficulties, I will listen for Jesus’ advice.
+ Each day, I will prepare for the moment of my death.

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

Lift up your heads. Your redemption is near at hand.