Author: Flame of Love

THE GROWING OPPOSITION (Jn 7:40-53)

Prayer:

O Jesus, never let me oppose you.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus preaching in the Temple.

Context:

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

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

No one has ever spoken like this before.

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

Prayer:

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

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching in the Temple.

Context:

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

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

JOSEPH’S DILEMMA (MT 1:16-25)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit. Give to me Joseph’s fidelity to God’s plan.

Imagination:

Picture Joseph receiving the angel’s message.

Context:

Luke tells us about Mary accepting her role as Mother of God. In Matthew’s gospel, the stories focus on Joseph’s dilemma. How does an upright Jewish man resolve the dilemma of a pregnant wife? Joseph is a just man.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child by the Holy Spirit. Joseph, an upright man, unwilling to expose her to the law, decided to divorce her quietly.
Such was his intention, when an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in sleep. “Joseph, Son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, because the child has been conceived by the Holy Spirit. She shall have a son whom you will call Jesus. He will save many from their sins.” All this happened to fulfill what the Lord said, “A virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall call him Emmanuel, meaning, ‘God is with us.’” Joseph did as the angel commanded and took Mary as his wife.

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

1. By his human attraction for Mary, Joseph gets immersed in a divine mystery.
2. Both Mary and Joseph had a dilemma.
3. Mary could not explain to him what happened and Joseph had to live according to his beliefs.
4. Realize the greatness of Joseph. He could have had Mary killed.
5. If he did, the Messiah would not have been born and the world would be in total darkness.
6. An angel resolves the problem.
7. In his darkest hour, Joseph always followed God’s light.

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

• O Jesus, in my dilemmas, send me your angel of light.
• Give me the faith of Mary and Joseph.
• Let all my decisions be gentle and thoughtful.
• Reveal my role in your Kingdom.
• Thank you, Joseph, for preserving the life of the Messiah.
• O Jesus, you take away my sins.
• You are Emmanuel, God with us. How much I owe to you!

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

+ I will enkindle a devotion to Joseph (a favorite patron of St. Teresa of Avila)
+ I will seek God’s help in my dilemmas.

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

Joseph did as the angel commanded.

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

Prayer:

O Jesus, reveal the Father and Jesus to me.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching his disciples in the Temple.

Context:

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

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prayer:

O Jesus, heal my body and remove my sins.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus speaking to the healed man.

Context:

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

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prayer:

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

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with the royal official pleading for his son.

Context:

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

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BLIND MAN (Jn 9:1-41)

Prayer:

O Jesus, make me a faithful disciple, even amid persecutions.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus healing the blind man.

Context:

John’s gospel is built around 3 main stories. The Samaritan woman represents a beginner who has accepted Jesus as Messiah. The blind man (in this gospel) is the disciple who is faithful during his lifetime. Lazarus is the believer on his death bed, trusting that Jesus will be his resurrection. Although the blind man faces many conflicts, he comes to full faith.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

As Jesus walked along he saw a man who was blind from birth. Jesus spat on the ground and made clay which he put to the blind man’s eyes. “Go and wash in the pool of Siloam”. He washed and came back, able to see. His neighbors and those used to seeing him beg, asked, “Is this not the man who used to sit and beg?” Some claimed it was. Others said that it was just someone who looked like him. The man said, “I am the one.”
They took the man born blind to the Pharisees, who asked how he regained his sight. He said, “He put mud on my eyes. I washed it off and now I can see.” The Pharisees said, “This man cannot be from God because he does not keep the Sabbath.” Others asked, “If he is a sinner, how can he perform these signs?” They were divided. The Pharisees said to the blind man, “He opened your eyes. What do you have to say?” He is a prophet”, he replied. They exclaimed, “You are steeped in sin from birth and you are giving us lectures?” With that, they threw him out bodily. Hearing of his expulsion, Jesus sought him and asked, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” He answered, “Who is he, sir, so that I may believe in him?” Jesus replied, “He is speaking to you now.” “I do believe”, he said and bowed down to worship him.

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

1. Blind from birth, the man has never enjoyed sight.  Now, he meets Jesus.
2. The washing in Siloam is a symbol of Baptism, the source of inner enlightenment.
3. His conversion is so great that he becomes an excellent witness for Jesus.
4. Those with simple hearts accept the miracle as coming from God’s hands.
5. The complicated religious leaders reject him.
6. Jesus reveals his identity, like he did to the Samaritan woman at the well. (C4).
7. What a journey!  Through so many trials!  From blindness to full faith.

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

• O Jesus, come to me this day.
• Open my eyes to the wonders of your Kingdom.
• I will tell the whole world what you did for me.
• Even if I am misunderstood and persecuted, I will tell of your blessings.
• Reveal yourself to me.
• Bring me through all my trials.
• Take me from darkness into light.

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

+ I will ask Jesus to remove all my blindnesses.
+ I will witness to others, telling what happened to me.

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

Do you believe in the Son of Man? He is speaking to you now.

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

Prayer:

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

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with His disciples.

Context:

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

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE SCRIBE CLOSE TO THE KINGDOM (MK 12:28-34)

Prayer:

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

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with the crowd while he speaks with this good-willed scribe.

Context:

This scribe is not hostile. His question is sincere. In response, Jesus quotes the great prayer which the scribe himself recited each day. His Jewish faith had brought him close to the 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 all your whole heart and all your whole soul and all your mind and all your strength. This is the first commandment. 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 the total consecration to God, the Jews use many images – heart, mind, will, strength.
3. Jesus adds a second commandment, love for neighbor.
4. In these two commandments, Jesus sums up his whole gospel.
5. The scribe agrees that loving God and neighbor are more important than even temple sacrifices.
6. The scribe is close to the Kingdom. Now, he needs to believe that Jesus is Messiah and Lord.

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

• Jesus, give me a docile spirit and a heart eager for your word.
• I consecrate myself to you – heart and mind, soul and strength. Anything less is unworthy of you.
• O Jesus, when you enter my heart, you bring my neighbor. I must love everyone.
• You preached love, even to your death on the cross.
• Let my love be a total immolation.
• O Jesus, I choose you. You are 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.)

I will love my neighbor in thought, word and deed.

CASTING OUT DEVILS BY GOD’S FINGER (LK 11:15-26/ 14-23)

Prayer:

O Jesus, use your great power to bless ME.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with the disciples and the crowds

Context:

In this text, Jesus meets two enemies. They agree that Jesus worked these miracles and cast out Satan. Some question the source of his power and others want a heavenly sign. Jesus destroys their arguments and claims he is stronger than Satan.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

As Jesus was casting out a devil, some said, ‘It is by Beelzebub, the prince of devils, that he casts out devils.’ Others tested Jesus by wanting a sign from heaven.
Jesus said, “Every Kingdom divided against itself shall be brought to destruction. Any house torn by dissension shall fall. If Satan is divided against himself how shall his Kingdom stand? You say that I cast out devils by Beelzebub. By whom do your children cast them out? Let them be your judges. But, if I cast out devils by the finger of God, then the Kingdom of God has come upon you.
When a strong man fully armed guards his courtyard, his possessions go undisturbed. But if a stronger man than he comes upon him and overcomes him, he will take away the arms on which he was relying and distribute his spoils.

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

1. People use many excuses to reject Jesus. They question his powers or they demand signs.
2. Jesus answers their question. To think that Satan casts out Satan is ridiculous. Satan is too intelligent to divide his house.
3. What a powerful image! God only needs his finger to conquer Satan.
4. If Jesus casts out Satan, then the entire Kingdom of God is present.
5. Jesus describes the present situation. Satan is heavily armed and keeps secure possession of the whole world.
6. Soon, however, all that will change. Jesus is stronger and better armed. Soon, he will over throw Satan and set us free.

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

• Jesus, your powers are true, able to save me and free me.
• O Jesus, cast out all that is dark and satanic in me.
• Let the finger of God come upon me.
• O Jesus, Satan binds all, and controls all. How I need you!
• You have all power. You are fully armed with the Holy Spirit.
• You break open and set free. Come, Jesus. I await you.

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

+ Every day, I will ask Jesus to break the demonic powers that can bind me.
+ I will avoid all occult involvement.

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

If I cast out devils by the finger of God, then the Kingdom of God is upon you.

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.

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. After making us God’s children, Jesus describes how we must live.
2. First, disciples must keep God’s word.  Secondly, they must teach others to live by God’s word.
3. Then, they will be great in the Kingdom.  They will be both doers and teachers.
4. Disciples must go beyond the limited goodness of the scribes and Pharisees.
5. These tasks are heavy but the reward is great.  Disciples will live forever in the Kingdom of Heaven.

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

• Jesus, you have made me a child of the Father.
• Train me in your word, O Lord.
• O Jesus, plant your truth in my heart.
• Give me a zeal to instruct others in your word.
• May your power make me holy.
• 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.

THE UNMERCIFUL SERVANT (MT 18:23-35)

Prayer:

O Jesus, fill my heart with the Holy Spirit of mercy towards others.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with his disciples.

Context:

This parable about the Last Judgment highlights the deepest secret of discipleship. They must learn how to forgive. The warning is serious. God, who has granted the disciple forgiveness will revoke that forgiveness if the disciple does not forgive others. Everything is at stake.
The parable also offers a unique comfort. If we forgive others, then God’s mercy will extends to the Final Judgment.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

(Scene 1) The Kingdom of heaven is like a King who decided to settle all his accounts. One servant owed him ten thousand talents. The King wanted his family and his goods sold so payment could be made. The servant said, “Have patience with me and I will pay everything.” Moved with pity, the king forgave the debt.
(Scene 2) When this servant left, he found his fellow-servant who owed him a hundred pence. Laying hands on him, he said, “Pay what you owe.” The fellow-servant, prostrating himself, said “Have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.” However, he would not. Instead, he threw him into prison until the debt was paid.
(Scene 3) The other servants were very grieved and told the King what had happened. He called the servant and said, “Wicked servant, I forgave you the entire debt when you asked me. Should you not, then, have compassion on your fellow servant as I did on you? Filled with anger, he handed the servant over to the torturers until he paid all. So shall my heavenly Father do to you, if you do not forgive all your brothers from your heart.

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

1. This “accounting” represents the Final Judgment.  For the forgiving disciple, this Final Judgment will be filled with mercy.
2. The false disciple claims that he will repay the master.  However, the amount he owes is so astounding that he will never be able to pay.
3. He seeks only a reprieve, a postponement of the accounting.  Instead, the King forgives the whole debt unconditionally.
4. Although forgiven, the disciple does not imitate the King’s forgiving generosity.
5. Jesus’ conclusion is clear.  The Final Judgment will be a time of mercy only if “You forgive your brother from your heart.”

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

• Jesus, you have revealed how I can receive mercy on Judgment Day.
• Lord, may the moment of that judgment be always before my eyes.
• Lord, what I owe to you I can never repay.
• Teach me to forgive from my heart.
• O Jesus, You are always patient with me. Your compassion overflows.
• Jesus, let me hold no one in my debt.  Then, I will also be set free.

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

+ Today, I will thank God for his patience and mercy.
+ I will show forgiveness to everyone.

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

Moved with compassion, the King forgave the whole debt.

REJECTION AT NAZARETH (LK 4:24-30)

Prayer:

O Lord, never let me reject you.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus confronted by the angry citizens of Nazareth.

Context:

The mood of the crowd changes suddenly from acceptance to rejection. Jesus pinpoints the cause. They want to see miracles. Jesus recounts two stories in which the prophets worked miracles for non-Jewish people. Their rejection turns to an angry attempt to kill Jesus. However, it is not yet the time for his crucifixion.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

While preaching at the synagogue in Nazareth, Jesus said, “Today this passage is fulfilled in your hearing.”  All spoke favorably of him and marveled at the words which came from his mouth.  Yet, they said, “Is this not the son of Joseph?”  Jesus said, “You will say, ‘Physician, heal yourself.  We have heard about the great things you have done in Capernaum.  Do them here in your own country.’”

            He continued, “I say to you.  A prophet is without honor only in his native place.  I say in truth.  There were many widows in the days of Elijah in Israel, when the heavens were closed for three years and six months and there was great famine on the earth.  To none of these was Elijah sent except to the widow at Zarephath near Sidon.  There were many lepers in the time of Elisha the prophet, but he cleansed none except Namaan, the Syrian.”

            When those in the synagogue heard these things they grew angry.  They brought Jesus out of the city to the edge of a hill, so they could throw him down.  But he passed through their midst and went his way.

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

1. These people of Nazareth have an obstacle to accepting Jesus as a prophet.  They knew him as a little boy, the son of Joseph.
2.  These memories close their minds to faith.
3. Jesus pinpoints the problem.  Prophets are accepted everywhere except where they grew up.
4. The people feel that they have a right to Jesus’ miracles.  After all, he grew up in Nazareth.
5. Jesus cites Elijah and Elisha who worked miracles for foreigners but none for Israel.
6. This rebuke stirs them to anger and to an attempt to kill Jesus. However, the Father wants Jesus to die in Jerusalem.
7. Because of its lack of faith, Nazareth receives no blessing.

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

• Jesus, I have so many obstacles.  Remove them all.
• I accept you, Jesus.  I open my heart wide.  I am yours.
• Lord, all that I have comes from you.
• Jesus, your favors are for everyone. You push no one aside.  You look with love, even upon me.
• Poor Nazareth is deprived of your blessings.  Woe is me if I reject you.
• O Jesus, teach me your ways.

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

+ I will seek Jesus today with childlike faith.
+ I will receive Jesus’ favors and I will use them well.

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

Jesus passed through their midst and went his way.

THE SAMARITAN WOMAN (Jn 4:7-15)

Prayer:

O Jesus, give me the living waters of the Kingdom.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus speaking to the woman by the well.

Context:

John’s gospel has three central stories. The Woman at the Well represents a beginner. The healed blind man (C9) represents a disciple in the middle of trials and Lazarus (C11) represents the disciple facing death. In this first part, her conversion begins.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

A woman of Samaria came to draw water at the well. Jesus said to her, “Give me to drink.” She said, “How can you, a Jew, ask me, a Samaritan woman, for a drink?” Jesus answered, “If you knew the gift of God and who is saying to you “Give me a drink”, you would have asked him and he would give you living water.”
She asked, “Are you greater than Jacob who gave us this well?” Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I shall give, will never thirst. It will be a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said, “Sir, give me this water, so that I may not be thirsty, or have to keep coming here to draw water.” (Jn 4:7-15)

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

1. This meeting at the well seems like a chance occurrence. Really, God planned this “from the beginning.”
2. Jesus humbles himself. He breaks all the social customs which divide a Jew from a Samaritan or a man from a woman.
3. Both are deeply interested in water. The woman for natural water and Jesus for the “water welling up to eternal life.”
4. Because of her thirst, she opens her heart. “Sir, give me this water.”
5. She is prepared to receive, but some obstacles are present.

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

• O God, you meet me in the common events of my daily life.
• O Jesus, You come to me. You speak. You invite.
• As I respond you reveal yourself to me.
• Lord, I thirst for doors to your Kingdom.
• Give me your water and I will thirst even more.
• O Jesus, I am created for pure heavenly water.
• Help me to reject polluted earthly water.

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

+ Today, I will see Jesus coming to me in ordinary events.
+ I will ask for living water.

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

“Whoever drinks the water that I will give, will never thirst.”

THE PRODIGAL SON (Lk: 15:11-32)

Prayer:

O Heavenly Father, let me never leave your house.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with His disciples.

Context:

This is a “Parable of the Father’s Love” and is drawn from real life. Many young unmarried sons (under twenty) asked for their inheritance to leave Palestine and better themselves. This son, however, loses his money and returns home. The father’s response is not reasonable, but mirrors the way God treats us.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

A man had two sons.  The younger said, “Father, give me my inheritance.”  After gathering his things, he went to a distant country.  However, he wasted his money by living recklessly.  When he had lost everything, a famine broke out and the son got a job feeding pigs.  He would like to have filled his belly with their food but no one gave him any.

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

1. This scene happens so frequently.  A young person grows dissatisfied and wants out.
2. This desire destroys the family support which he/she still need.
3. The son rejects the Father’s wisdom and soon his own wisdom fails him miserably.
4. The destructive power of sin destroys all that he has.
5. The result is total disaster.  A privileged son has become a hungry swine herder.  (The lowest of occupations).

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

• O God, how often my desire for liberty has led me to frightful decisions.
• Too often, O Lord, I have trusted my own wisdom.
• O Jesus, my unbridled passions have led me into problems.
• You allowed my situation to deteriorate.
• You abandoned me to my own whims, so I would face reality.
• Leaving your house, O Lord and choosing my own path have led me to the depths of darkness, even to depravity.

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

+ I will recall all of my foolish decisions, taking full responsibility for what I have done.
+ I will not blame God for my situation. I decided to leave his house.

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

He got a job feeding the swine.
(To complete the parable, go to the next meditation.)

TAKING AWAY THEIR VINEYARD (MT 21:33-43)

Prayer:

O Lord, you have given me everything. Make me a faithful tenant.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with his disciples and his opponents.

Context:

Jesus spoke this parable in Jerusalem when the chief priests and elders questioned his authority. The parable fitted their situation. The tenants are the Jewish religious leaders. The vineyard is Israel. The servants already rejected are the Old Testament prophets. The son, of course, is Jesus. By rejecting the son (killing him on the cross), the religious leaders will lose their authority.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said, “There was a man who planted a vineyard, put a hedge, dug a vat and erected a tower. He rented it to tenants and went on a journey. When the harvest came he sent his servants to the tenants to receive his share. The tenants beat one, killed another and stoned another. He sent more servants and they did the same. Finally, he sent his son, thinking, “They will respect my son.”

Seeing the son, the tenants said, “This is the heir. Let us kill him and we shall own the vineyard.” So they killed him and threw him out of the vineyard. What will the Lord of the vineyard do to those tenants when he comes?”

They answered, “He will bring those evil men to an evil end and will give the vineyard to those who will give him grapes at vintage time.” Jesus said, “For this reason I say that the Kingdom of God will be taken away from you and will be given to a people who will yield a rich harvest.

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

1. Notice the zeal and care of the owner for his vineyard. He plants a vineyard and builds a hedge, a vat and a tower.
2. The owner only wanted his share of the grapes.
3. The messengers just bring the owner’s words – to give them what is his due.
4. The owner is patient, even when the tenants kill his servants.
5. He gives them another chance, deciding to even risk his son to restore the right relationship.
6. The tenants want the whole vineyard and are willing to kill the son to get it.
7. Instead of gaining the vineyard, they are cast out.
8. The vineyard is taken away and given to others.

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

• Jesus, you have done everything for me. You created me. You came to earth for me. You died for me.
• O Lord, you have a right to my praise, to my life, to everything. It is yours.
• O Lord, when you send your messengers, let me accept them. When you speak in my heart, let me listen.
• How patient you are, O Lord, waiting, always waiting until I turn to you.
• Father, you sent your only Son to me, even at the cost of his life.
• I give you everything. All that is yours is mine. You have done everything for me.

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

+ I will give God every Sunday. The day belongs to him.
+ I will listen to the church and to God’s voice within me.

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

Finally, he sent his son, thinking, “Surely, they will respect my son.”

THE RICH MAN AND LAZARUS (LK 16:19-31)

Prayer:

O Lord, awaken me by this warning. Do not let me be like the foolish brothers.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching the crowds.

Context:

Judaism believed that riches proved God’s favor and that poverty proved sinfulness. Jesus reveals the true picture, which shocks his audience. The rich man goes to hell, while Lazarus enjoys the highest honor of being at Abraham’s side. This sets the stage for this parable of the six brothers (its real name). The rich man sees clearly that his five brothers are in danger. However, his brothers are like foolish men with no thought of the impending judgment. They do not listen to the Church and its preaching.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

A rich man feasted sumptuously every day. At his gates sat Lazarus, a beggar filled with sores. He desired only the crumbs that fell from the rich man’s table but no one gave them. It happened that the beggar died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried in hell. He lifted his eyes and saw Abraham afar off with Lazarus at his side.

He cried out, Father Abraham, “Let Lazarus come and refresh me with some water.” Abraham replied, “Remember that you received good things in life and Lazarus received evil things. Now he is comforted and you are tormented. Besides, there is a great abyss between us and no one can pass from one side to another.” The rich man said, “Then send Lazarus back to earth to preach to my five brothers, so they do not come to this place of torment.” Abraham said, “Let them listen to Moses and the prophets.” The rich man said, “If someone risen from the dead told them, they would do penance.” Abraham said, “If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, they will not listen to one risen from the dead.”

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

1. Lazarus is used only to highlight the problem of the six brothers, one dead and five living.
2. The dead brother realizes how important repentance is. Without penance, his five brothers will all join him in hell.
3. They have the normal helps (the teachings of Moses and the prophets) but the rich man realizes that they won’t use those helps.
4. He pleads for Lazarus to be a risen-from-the-dead preacher, to whom they will certainly listen.
5. However, Jesus is already risen from the dead and most do not listen even now.
6. The parable challenges us to respond to the gospel that is preached to us every day.

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

• Jesus, while I am here on earth, I am free to choose.
• When my life is over, I will have made my choice.
• Right now, I decide to repent, to change and to have you as my Lord.
• I do not need an extraordinary preacher. I need only your word.
• You are risen. You preach to me. You speak within. You call. You shout. I must hush all the other voices, so I can hear you.
• Someday, Jesus, I will be in heaven or in hell. Guide my free will.

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

+ I will read God’s word with urgency.
+ I will believe that God who wants to welcome me into his Kingdom.

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

Lazarus was carried by the angels to the bosom of Abraham.

AMBITIOUS JAMES AND JOHN (Mt. 20:17-28)

Prayer:

Come Holy Spirit. Reveal the glory you have prepared.

Imagination:

Picture James and John seeking favors from Jesus.

Context:

Jesus has just told the apostles that he would come in glory. With great ambition, James and John want that glory. Before granting any glory, Jesus must enter into his Messianic glory by drinking the cup. This cup means both his suffering and the Eucharistic cup celebrated in Mark’s Church.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

The mother of James and John came to Jesus, accompanied by her sons. Jesus asked “What is it that you want?” She answered, “Promise me that these sons of mine will sit, one on your right hand and the other on your left hand in your Kingdom.” Jesus replied, “You do not know what you are seeking. Can you drink of the chalice that I will drink?” They said, “We can.” Jesus said, “You shall indeed drink of the chalice that I drink of. However, to sit on my right hand or my left hand, is not mine to give you. It is for those for whom it has been reserved by my Father.”

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

1. These apostles have no idea of the costs of the Kingdom’s glory.
2. Jesus tells them that they seek what they do not understand.
3. Even with this warning, they glibly say that they can drink the chalice.
4. Jesus sees the future.  After many failures, they will drink the chalice and will be martyred.
5. The highest glory, however, is reserved for others.
6. Such is the Kingdom!  God has already prepared each one’s place and his decisions are beyond our comprehension.

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

• O Jesus, enlighten me about the greatness of your Kingdom.
• Pull me into the great mystery of your will.
• Help me to drink your chalice. 
• O Jesus, You have prepared my place in glory.
• O Jesus, Your only desire is to share your glory with me.
• You have already made me so many promises.

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

+ I will find time for mental prayer so God can reveal the Kingdom to me.
+ I will cherish God’s will, both on earth and in heavenly glory.

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

The Father has already decided my place in heavenly glory.

THE HYPOCRISY OF THE PHARISEES: (Mt: 23:1-12)

Prayer:

O Jesus, give me the heart of a servant.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus instructing His disciples in humility.

Context:

Jesus does not criticize the teaching of the scribes and Pharisees (although he alludes to moral rigorism) but he condemns their practices of seeking honor and gaining titles. Jesus wants his disciples to serve others and to take the last place.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus told the crowds and his disciples, “The scribes and Pharisees sit on the chair of Moses. Therefore, do all that they say but do not follow their example. For they bind heavy burdens and lay them on men’s shoulders, but they do not lift a finger to help them.
They do all their works to be seen by men. They widen their phylacteries and wear huge tassels. They love first places at feasts and first place in the synagogues. They like to be greeted in the marketplace and be called “Rabbi”. You are to avoid the title “Rabbi”. Only one among you is the teacher. The rest are learners.
Do not all call anyone on earth ‘Father’. Only one is your Father, the One in heaven. Avoid being called ‘Teacher’. Only one is your teacher, the Messiah. The greatest among you is the one who serves the rest. Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.”

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

1. By hypocrisy, a person professes a belief that they do not live out.
2. Jesus despises this false devotion and provides many concrete examples.
3. The Pharisees place burdens on people and offer no help.
4. They seek praise of others and places of honor.
5. They seek titles and superiority.
6. They distance themselves and refuse to serve.
7. Only Jesus Christ is your master.

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

• O Jesus, I will live my devout life in truth.
• I will place everyone in my heart and be a servant to all.
• I will love the other disciples and we will be a true sign to the world.
• I will seek no worldly glory, especially in my devout community.
• You, alone, are my Christ, my Master, my Lord.
• Do not let me ruin your work.

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

+ Today, I will serve others.
+ I will avoid all ostentatious behavior so the gospel can spread.

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

The greatest among you must be the servant of all.

COMPASSIONATE AS THE FATHER (LK 6:36-38)

Prayer:

Father, fill me with your compassion.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching his disciples.

Context:

After teaching about loving enemies, Jesus concludes with “Be compassionate as the heavenly Father.” He then stresses the need not to judge others. This will determine what will be measured out to the disciples.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said to his disciples, “Be merciful as your Father is merciful. Do not judge and you shall not be judged. Do not condemn and you will not be condemned. If you forgive, you will be forgiven.
Give and it will be given to you, good measure, pressed down and shaken together, flowing over into the fold of your garment. By the same measure that you measure, it shall be measured out to you.”

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

1. How merciful the Father is. That is how merciful the disciple must be.
2. If we do not judge, God does not need to judge us.
3. To be forgiven by God, we need only to forgive others.
4. Jesus uses the example of buying grain at the marketplace.
5. The seller fills the basket and presses down so he can give even more.
6. Finally, he shakes the basket so every inch is filled with grain. This is how a disciple should give.
7. People also carried grain in their apron. Jesus promises that his blessing will “flow over the fold of the garment.”

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

• O Jesus, I will approach every person with a merciful and compassionate heart.
• O Lord, you make so many promises and all of them are true
• If I forgive others, you will forgive me.
• Such a great reward for such a little effort!
• Fill me, Lord. Press your favors into my heart.
• Shake me so you can fill me even more.
• O Jesus, I give you little and you give me much.
• My heart overflows, incapable of receiving all you give.

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

+ I will ask Jesus to make me a generous person.
+ Today, I will see who needs my compassion and forgiveness.

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

Give and it will be given to you in full measure.