Author: Flame of Love

LOVE YOUR ENEMIES (MT 5:43-48)

Prayer:

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

Imagination:

Picture Jesus asking the disciples to imitate the Father.

Context:

Jesus continually demands that his disciples show goodness towards enemies. They must act as children of a heavenly Father. At the end Jesus reveals his goal. He wants the disciples to be as perfect as the heavenly Father.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

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

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

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

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

• Jesus, lead me to your heights of holiness.
• O Jesus, give me a new way to live.
• Let your love cast out all my hatred.
• Make me a child of the heavenly Father.
• I will shower my love and my forgiveness upon everyone.
• You call me to be perfect as the Father. I will begin right now.

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

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

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

Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect.

ANGER (MT. 5:20-26)

Prayer:

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

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching his disciples to reconcile.

Context:

Jesus teaches a “greater goodness” which is demanded by the holiness of this new Kingdom. In this gospel, he compares the Old Testament teaching on anger and his new teaching. The disciples maintain unity by forgiving each other.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

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

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

1. Jesus invites his disciples to live at a new level of goodness.
2. The law commanded external compliance.  Jesus goes much deeper, into the disciples’ hearts.
3. His disciples must remove their inner anger.  Then, discord will cease.
4. He forbids angry words, so that hatred gains no foothold.
5. Even the temple sacrifices must be delayed until the disciples reconcile.

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

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

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

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

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

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

CONFIDENCE IN PRAYER (MT 7:7-12)

Prayer:

O Jesus, teach me to ask and to seek and to knock.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching His disciples to have confidence in prayer.

Context:

God wants to bless you. First, he wants you to seek his blessings (so when you receive them you will thank God and grow in faith). Jesus uses three images (ask-receive; seek-find; knock-be opened) to assure you that God wants you to ask.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Ask and it will be given you. Seek and you shall find. Knock and it shall be opened to you. Whoever asks, will receive. Whoever seeks, will find. To whomever knocks, it shall be opened.
What man among you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or, if he seeks fish, will give him a serpent? If you who are evil, give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give good things to those who ask?”

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

1. To encourage you to ask, Jesus teaches that the Father always hears you.
2. You need not compete for God’s prizes. He provides gifts for all his children.
3. Everyone who seeks, will find something.
4. This teaching seems too good to be true. So Jesus uses human examples.
5. What earthly father would hand his child a stone or a serpent?
6. Certainly, the heavenly Father will never withhold good things from you.

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

• You encourage me, Jesus. You urge me to ask.
• O God, all your gifts are mine. I just need to ask and seek.
• O heavenly Father, would you give me useless things, like a stone or a serpent?
• Father, you hear me as if I were your only child.
• O Father, You gave me Jesus. Will you withhold other blessings?
• O Father, lavish your good things upon me.

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

+ I will fill this day with requests to my heavenly Father.
+ I will think about the Father’s love for me.

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

How much more will the heavenly Father give you good things.

A GREATER THAN JONAH OR SOLOMON (LK 11:29-32)

Prayer:

O Lord, I seek no sign or wonder. I seek only you.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus speaking to the crowds.

Context:

Although Jesus’ enemies asked for a sign, Jesus addresses his teaching to the crowds. He cites two Old Testament examples of foreigners having a change of heart. When Jonah preached in Nineveh (a perennial enemy of Israel) the people repented. When the Queen of Ethiopia came to see Solomon, she was totally impressed with his wisdom.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said to the crowd, “This is a wicked generation because it looks for a sign. No sign shall be given except the sign of Jonah, the prophet. As Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites, so shall the Son of Man be to this generation.
The Queen of the South shall rise in judgment upon the men of this generation and shall condemn them because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon. Behold, a greater than Solomon is here.
At the judgment, the citizens of Nineveh will rise along with this generation and shall condemn it. At the preaching of Jonah they did penance, but you have a greater than Jonah here.”

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

1. People want signs to satisfy their intellect, when really they should be surrendering their heart. 
2. A sign does not get people to repent.  It only satisfies curiosity.
3. Jesus gives the whole world the greatest sign, his rising from the dead.
4. The Queen believed just by hearing Solomon speak.  What is Solomon compared with Jesus?
5. The hated Ninevites repented when Jonah spoke.  Who is Jonah compared to Jesus?
6.  Every person in history will come before Jesus in judgment.
7. On that day, the Queen and the Ninevites will condemn those who did not repent.

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

• Jesus, give me no sign.  Just give me yourself.
• You are risen from the dead and I will rise with you. Alleluia!
• Change my heart, Jesus.  Turn me totally to Your way of life.
• They repented when Jonah preached. I will repent at your word.
• Send me your Holy Spirit of repentance. All can be changed.
• When I come to you after my death, let me be your friend.

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

+ I will think today about the miracle of Jesus’ rising.
+ I will ponder Jesus’ claim that he is greater than all other teachers.

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

A greater than Jonah or Solomon is here.

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

Prayer:

O Jesus, teach me to pray as you prayed.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching His disciples the Our Father.

Context:

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

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

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

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

1. In the Our Father, Jesus explains what the disciple should desire.
2. The Heavenly Father and His Kingdom must come first.
3. In all things, the disciple must accomplish the Father’s will.
4. The disciple must receive the daily bread of the Eucharist.
5. The disciple’s sins must be forgiven to gain the Kingdom.
6. The disciple must forgive all who have inflicted injuries.
7. The disciple must persevere in all trials and temptations.
8. The saints said this prayer slowly and devoutly.

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

• Jesus, show me what I should desire.
• Focus all my desires upon your Kingdom.
• O Father, I will live for your glory.
• Let your Kingdom break into my life.
• Jesus, reveal the Father’s will.  I will do it always.
• Give me a hunger for daily Eucharist.
• I forgive everyone, Lord.  Everyone.
• O Jesus, help me in my temptations and to persevere.

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

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

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

When you pray, do not use many words.

THE LAST JUDGMENT (MT 25:31-46)

Prayer:

O Jesus, You are the King who is to come.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus with His disciples.

Context:

Some people never heard Jesus’ gospel. In this parable, Jesus confronts the question of how they will be judged. Although they do not know Jesus (Lord, when did we see you?), they still can gain his Kingdom by serving him in the needy.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

The King shall say to the just, “Come, blessed of my Father, possess the Kingdom prepared for you from the beginning of the world. For I was hungry, thirsty, lost, naked, sick and in prison and you helped me.” The just will answer, “Lord, when did we see you hungry, thirsty, lost, naked, sick and in prison?” “Amen, I say that as long as you did it to one of my least brothers, you did it to me.”
Then he will say to the unjust, “Depart from me, you accursed into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry, thirsty, lost, naked, sick and in prison and you did not help me.” They shall answer, “Lord, when did we see you hungry, thirsty, lost, naked, sick and in prison and did not help you?” He shall answer, saying, “As long as you did not do it to one of these least, neither did you do it for me.”

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

1. The parable shows the cosmic Christ. All the nations (believes and non-believers) are forced to come before him.
2. These people are surprised to discover that they have served or not served this King. They have never heard about Jesus.
3. Jesus explains that he identifies with every needy and suffering person in the whole world.
4. The parable shows the eternal Christ. The Kingdom “was prepared from the world’s beginning.”
5. The lesson for the disciple is this. Christ’s Kingdom is eternal. Salvation or damnation concerns every human being (those who heard and those who have not heard the gospel).

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

• Lord, before I existed you prepared the kingdom for me.
• O Jesus, your Kingdom will remain forever. List me among its members.
• The just served you when they didn’t even know you. Should I not serve you better, since I do know you?
• I have heard your gospel. What great responsibilities I have.
• Every needy person I meet today is a door into your Kingdom. Let my eyes be open.

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

+ Today, I will thank God for my faith in Jesus Christ.
+ I will think of my inevitable meeting with the King. What will he say to me?

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

“All the nations will be gathered before him.”

THE THREE TEMPTATIONS (MT 4:1-11)

Prayer:

O Jesus, let me triumph as you did.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus overcoming Satan’s temptations.

Context:

Mark just says that Jesus was tempted by the devil. Matthew gives three definite temptations, sensuality (the bread), misuse of miraculous powers (asking angels to protect), and using political power to establish the Kingdom. Jesus uses God’s word to conquer Satan.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus was led into the desert by the Spirit to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread”. Jesus answered, “It is written, ‘Not by bread alone does man live but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
The devil took him to the holy city and set him upon the pinnacle of the temple and said, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down because it is written, “He has given his angels charge concerning you. In their hands they will lift you up so that you do not dash your foot against the stone.” Jesus said, “It is also written – You shall not tempt the Lord your God.
The devil took him up a very high mountain and showed him all the Kingdoms of the world and all their glory. He said, “I will give you all of these if you fall down and adore me.” Jesus said, “Begone Satan. It is written, ‘ The Lord your God shall you adore and him alone shall you serve.’” The devil left him and the angels came to minister to him.

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

1. After anointing Jesus at Baptism, the Holy Spirit immediately sends him into combat against Satan.
2. Jesus prepares for spiritual warfare by forty days of fasting.
3. Knowing his hunger, Satan tempts him with bread.
4. Jesus knows that God’s word is more important than bread.
5. Satan tempts Jesus to attract people into his kingdom by an extraordinary outward sign.
6. This would test God, as the Jews did in the desert.
7. Satan invites Jesus to be satisfied to rule this world, by abandoning the Father’s Kingdom.
8. By using biblical words, Jesus wins a complete victory.  Satan leaves and angels come.

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

• Holy Spirit, come upon me.  Anoint me with Your power.
• Move me wherever you want. I will follow your guidance.
• Jesus, teach me to fast so I can conquer my appetites.
• Give me a hunger for God’s word.  This will protect me.
• Father, you will take care of me.  Your angels always surround me.
• Remove all worldly ambitions.  To be in your Kingdom is my only hope.
• Give me the victory, Jesus. The angels will rejoice with me.

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

+ I will not enter the places of temptations.
+ I will set aside every ambition except to be with Jesus.

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

The devil left him and angels came to minister to him.

EATING WITH LEVI’S FRIENDS (LK 5:27-32)

Prayer:

O Jesus, call me into your Kingdom because I am a sinner.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus at table with Levi and his friends.

Context:

When these scribes and Pharisees complain about Jesus’ table companions, Jesus announces that he is a physician whose ministry is to sinners. Jesus’ Kingdom changes social relationships and shatters the social conventions that kept sinners at a distance.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus saw a tax collector names Levi, sitting at his custom’s post. He said, “Follow me.” Levi got up and followed him. After that, Levi gave a great reception for Jesus in his house. Many tax collectors and others joined him at dinner. The scribes and Pharisees asked his disciples, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” Jesus said, “Those who are healthy do not need a doctor, but those who are sick do. I have not come to invite the righteous to a change of heart, but sinners.”

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

1. Levi performed a task which the Jews despised. However, his heart was open to Jesus’ invitation.
2. Levi is a good evangelist, gathering his friends to meet Jesus.
3. Jesus is quite at home with tax collectors and sinners. They are written on his heart.
4. Eating with them shatters the usual procedures. Unfortunately, the scribes and Pharisees do not understand.
5. Jesus must define his identity. He is a doctor.
6. Logically, he spends time with the sick.
7. His mission is to the sinners.

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

• Jesus, I will open my heart and be open to your call.
• I will be your evangelist, bringing others to you.
• O Jesus, I am a sinner. You are welcome at my table.
• O Jesus, You do not judge by appearances. You see my heart.
• You are the physician. I am the sick person. You have come for me.

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

+ In every situation, I will listen for Jesus’ call.
+ I will accept my own sinfulness and my need for Jesus’ forgiveness.

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

Only the sick need the doctor. I have come to call sinners.

TRUSTING THE FATHER (MT 9:14-17)

Prayer:

Come, Holy Ghost. Help me to seek first the Kingdom of heaven.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching His disciples about the Father’s care for them.

Context:

Jesus has been explaining the beatitudes and all that is demanded of a disciple. He ends his talk on a different note. Disciples must not worry, even about their daily needs. If they serve Jesus, the Father will provide.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

“Oh, you of little faith. Do not worry and say “What are we to eat?” or “What are we to drink?” or “What are we to wear?” All these things the pagans seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. Seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides.
Do not worry about tomorrow. Tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for each day is the evil thereof.

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

1. To worry about food, drink and clothing is quite normal. Everyone does this, even pagans who have no faith.
2. Jesus explains that the heavenly Father knows and cares about the disciples’ human needs.
3. The disciple must have a total faith in God’s Providence.
4. They need to do one thing, seek first the Kingdom. Then, they will have all the food, drink and clothing that they need.
5. The disciple must not worry about a tomorrow (which never comes). The Father provides for each day’s challenges.

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

• Jesus, when I have little faith, I am anxious. When I have great faith, I am at peace.
• O Lord, calm my inner questions.
• O Father, why do I not trust you? Did you not create me? Will you not provide?
• Jesus, your command is clear. I must seek first your Kingdom.
• Jesus, make me a child. To trust. To live one day at a time. To believe that God will give me my daily bread.

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

+ I will examine my anxieties and why I grow fearful.
+ I will place greater trust in my heavenly Father.

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

Your heavenly Father knows that you need all of these.

DON’T BE ASHAMED OF JESUS (LK 9:22-25)

Prayer:

O Jesus, in time of trial, do not let me turn my back on you.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching his disciples.

Context:

Having told the disciples that he will suffer, die and rise, Jesus gathers the crowd and explains that they also will suffer if they follow him. He tells them that they cannot be ashamed of him. Otherwise, Jesus must be ashamed of them when He comes in glory.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Calling together both the crowd and his disciples, Jesus said, “If anyone wants to follow me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow me. Whoever saves his life will lose it and whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel, will save it. What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul? What shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Whoever is ashamed of me and my teaching in this sinful and corrupt age, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him, when he comes in the glory of the Father with all his holy angels.
Amen I say to you. There are some standing here who shall not taste death until they see the Kingdom of God coming in power.”

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

1. Some people want to enjoy the privilege of following Jesus. First, they must deny themselves and take up their cross.
2. Jesus explains the reason. People will persecute them. If they have not accepted the cross, they will deny Jesus.
3. Jesus speaks of earthly life and heavenly life. Whoever saves his earthly life, will lose his heavenly glory.
4. Jesus compares gaining the whole world (which none of us really has) with losing our soul. What profit is that?
5. Jesus stresses shame. If the disciples are ashamed of him during their lifetime, logically, he must be ashamed of them when he comes in glory.
6. Some disciples will soon see this glory after Jesus rises from the dead.

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

• Jesus, I so much want to be your disciple.
• Whatever the cost, I will pay it.
• What is my earthly life worth when compared to heavenly glory?
• I’ll make you proud of me. With your help, I will stand firm in trials.
• When you come, you will clothe me in your glory.
• Yes, I will see your glory. You are faithful to your promises.

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

+ I will see the passing nature of earthly life.
+ I will meditate on the heavenly glory awaiting me.

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

What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul.

ACTING IN SECRET (MT 6:1-6)

Prayer:

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

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching the disciples how to gain their reward.

Context:

Jesus contrasts Christian goodness with the goodness of the Pharisees. He focuses on almsgiving, prayer and fasting. All of these should be done secretly so the person is rewarded by God and not by others.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

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

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

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

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

• Lord, purify my inner self, which is filled with selfish motives.
• Jesus, many times I value men’s esteem more than the Father’s rewards.
• Let me hide myself from everyone but the Father.
• Where is my heart, O Lord? What do I seek? Earthly esteem or heavenly glory?
• Jesus, you emptied yourself so I could grasp heaven’s reward.
• Teach me to love spiritual hiding and holy secrecy.

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

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

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

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

DISCIPLES WHO DO NOT UNDERSTAND (MK 8:14-21)

Prayer:

O Jesus, do not let my heart be hardened.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus in the boat with the Twelve.

Context:

Certainly, the Pharisees have hardened hearts, but this text shows that the disciples’ hearts are hardening, also. The multiplication of the loaves has not increased their faith. They have received a sign and still do not believe.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

The disciples had forgotten to take bread and had but one loaf in the boat. Jesus instructed them, “Keep your eyes open. Be careful of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.”
They concluded among themselves that was because they had no bread. Jesus knew this and said, “Why do you think it is because you have no bread? Do you not know or understand? Are your hearts still blind?
Do you have eyes and not see? Do you have ears and not hear? Do you not remember when I broke five loaves for the five thousand? How many baskets did you gather up? They said “twelve”. When I broke seven loaves for the four thousand, how many baskets of fragments did you gather up? They said, “Seven” He said to them, “Do you still not understand?”

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

1. The disciples bring one loaf. This represents Jesus. He is sufficient. That is the theme of this passage.
2. These disciples had witnessed Jesus multiplying bread on two occasions, but do not grow in faith.
3. They share the leaven of disbelief, a corrupting influence which is hardening their hearts.
4. Jesus, seeing their lack of faith, berates them with seven questions, and equates them with the blind Pharisees.
5. In spite of all the divine signs, they are going backward in their faith.

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

• O Jesus, you have given me so many signs.
• You are the one loaf. You are all I need. I will bring you into my boat.
• Remove my unbelief. Take away my worldly spirit.
• Fill me with faith. Let me see and hear and understand and embrace you forever.
• Jesus, increase my confidence in you.
• Jesus, when I see, help me to understand. When I hear, help me to believe.

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

+ I will ponder for a moment all that God has provided for me.
+ I will set aside lukewarm faith. I will ask Jesus for a living, vibrant faith that always moves ahead.

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

Do you have eyes and yet not see? Do you have ears and yet not hear?

THE SIGN SEEKERS (MK 8:11-13)

Prayer:

O Jesus, I will trust you completely with the faith of a little child.

Imagination:

Picture the Pharisees confronting Jesus and his disciples.

Context:

In this story, the Pharisees do not understand. Like the crowds, they have witnessed Jesus teaching and healing. Unlike the crowds, they do not come to faith. They stand back, withhold their consent and seek yet another sign.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

The Pharisees came to Jesus and began to question him. They tempted Jesus by asking him for a sign from heaven. Jesus sighed deeply in his spirit and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign. I tell you that no sign will be given to this generation.”

Jesus left them, got into the boat and went to the other side of the water.

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

1. The Pharisees have witnessed all that Jesus did and taught.  Yet they hold back.  They refuse to move forward in faith.
2. Instead, they ask for a sign from heaven.  Jesus’ normal miracles are not enough for them.  They expect portents in the sky.
3. They are tempting Jesus. Their request is not a sincere searching.
4. Jesus sighs.  He has endured enough, working so hard and gaining no results from the Pharisees.
5. He calls them “this generation.” They refuse to become the first generation of his Kingdom.
6. He closes the door. Getting into the boat ends all discussion.  The Pharisees are left without Jesus.

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

• O Jesus, I will cherish the little signs that you give me.
• I will not tempt you, Jesus.  You lavish your gifts upon me.
• Jesus, you are so patient.  Even when I sin, you give me time to repent.
• Formerly, I was a “this generation” person. Now, I am a first generation person, belonging to your new Kingdom.
• Jesus, never close the door on me. Never turn your back. Never walk away.
• Jesus, you are all I have and all I want.  Let me get into the boat with you.

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

+ I will follow Jesus and not ask for any signs.
+ I will belong totally to him.

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

Jesus got into the boat and left them behind.

THE GREATER HOLINESS (MT 5:17-37)

Prayer:

O Lord Jesus, by your Holy Spirit, guide me to the heights of holiness.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus teaching his disciples.

Context:

Matthew wrote his gospel in 85 A.D. when the early fervor of the believers was cooling down. He tries to enkindle the fire by setting a high standard of holiness for his church. In this text, he contrasts the new level of holiness with the former level.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Unless your holiness surpasses that of the scribes and the Pharisees, you shall not enter the Kingdom of heaven.
You have heard the commandment “You shall not commit murder and every murderer will be liable to judgment. What I say to you is: Everyone who grows angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment.
You have heard the commandment, “You shall not commit adultery. What I say to you is: ‘Anyone who looks lustfully at a woman has already committed adultery with her in his thoughts.’
You have heard the commandment, Do not take a false oath but make good to the Lord all your pledges. What I tell you is, ‘Do not swear at all. Say “Yes” when you mean “Yes” and “No” when you mean “No”. Anything beyond that is from the Evil One.’

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

1. The Pharisees were seen as the holiest of Jews. Jesus goes beyond their teaching and presents a gigantic challenge to his new disciples.
2. Since murder results from anger, Jesus demands that the sources of this violence be removed.
3. Adultery comes from lustful thoughts.  Even these must be purified.
4. Jesus demands truth.  No need to take an oath over little things.  Just speak plainly and simply.
5. The list of demands is endless, but if the disciple has a willing heart, he will do all these and more.

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

• O Jesus, lift me to the highest purity and holiness of life.
• Calm my anger.  Remove my resentment.  Give me inner stillness.
• Cool down the fires of lust.  Let me not feed those desires.
• Touch my lips with the burning coal of your Spirit.  Then, my tongue will speak truth.
• Jesus, help me to change so I can be your disciple.

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

+ I will not compromise. I will seek a true life of holiness.
+ I will purify the interior sources of my sins.

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

Unless your holiness surpasses that of the scribes and the Pharisees, you will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

FEEDING THE FOUR THOUSAND (MK 8:1-10)

Prayer:

O Jesus, feed me with Your Body and Blood, the Bread of Life.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus blessing the bread in the sight of the crowds.

Context:

Earlier (Mk 6:34), Jesus multiplied bread and fish for a Jewish crowd. Now, He repeats the miracle for Gentiles. Some changes occur. Jesus is more active and the disciples are less involved. The focus in on the bread (the fish come later). Jesus’ actions prefigure what he will do at the Last Supper – giving thanks, breaking, giving and distributing. Mark makes this miracle a promise of the Eucharist.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Because there was a great crowd with nothing to eat, Jesus summoned his disciples, “I have compassion on the crowd. They have been with me three days with nothing to eat. If I send them away fasting, they will faint on the way because many have come from afar.”
His disciples responded, “How can anyone fill them with bread in the wilderness?” Jesus asked, “How many loaves do you have?” “Seven”, they replied. Taking these seven loaves, he gave thanks, broke them, and gave them to his disciples to distribute. And they set them before the people. They also had a few small fish. He blessed them and commanded the disciples to give them to the people. All ate and were filled. Seven baskets of fragments were gathered up. After the four thousand had eaten, he sent them away.

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

1. This story continually stresses that they have nothing to eat and are hungry.
2. To “faint along the way” means a Christian who tires of his journey in following Christ.
3. The scene is clearly the same as the Last Supper. Jesus takes bread, breaks it and gives it to his disciples.
4. The banquet is complete. The hunger is taken away. The people are filled with God’s blessing.
5. Now, they can be sent away to live devoutly, just as the priest dismisses the people at the end of Mass.

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

• Jesus, I hunger for you. I follow you for days and days, seeking only to be in your presence.
• You do not neglect me. You take care of my needs.
• Without Holy Communion, I will faint along the way.
• If you feed me, I will follow you on your journey to Calvary.
• You multiply your presence. At every Mass, you are the living bread. What more can you do? What more can I ask for?
• After feeding me, you ask me to be a true disciple.

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

+ I will receive Holy Communion at every possible opportunity.
+ I will have a total trust in Jesus. He knows all I need.

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

If I send them away fasting, they will faint on the way.

THE ENTHUSIASTIC CROWD (MK 7:31-37)

Prayer:

O Jesus, open my ears to hear your gospel, and my tongue to speak your word.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus healing the deaf and dumb man.

Context:

The geography shows that Jesus has become a preacher to the Gentiles. Because the Gentile crowd might not understand, he takes the man aside and performs a healing ritual (almost like a sacrament.) As usual, the people disobey Jesus’ command and they tell everyone. So many are in awe.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

When Jesus came into the district of the Ten Cities, they brought to him a man who was deaf and dumb, and asked him to lay hands on the man.

Taking him apart from the crowd, he put his fingers into his ears, and spitting, he touched his tongue. Looking up to heaven, he sighed and said, “Be thou open.” Immediately his ears were opened. His tongue was loosed and he spoke.

Jesus told them that they should tell no one. But the more he told them, so much more did they proclaim it. And they were in great wonder, “He has done all things well. He has made the deaf hear and the dumb to speak.”

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

1. The crowd initiates this healing. They bring the man to Jesus.
2. They believe that Jesus can heal by the laying on of hands.
3. The man himself is passive, so Jesus needs to take him away from the crowd.
4. Jesus’ power comes through two actions. Placing his hands in his ears and spittle on his tongue.
5. The results are full and immediate. There is no doubt that all this power comes from Jesus.
6. The wonderful crowd sees their faith in Jesus fulfilled, and tells everyone.
7. They have the highest esteem for Jesus. He does all things well.

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

• O Jesus, I come to you in faith. Lay your hands of power upon me.
• Take me aside. Teach me. Instruct me. Work your wonders in me.
• Let me receive your sacraments often. These contain all your power.
• Open my ears. Let me hear your words. Let me understand your mysteries.
• Loose my tongue. I will proclaim your mighty deeds.
• You do all things well, Jesus. Your actions are perfect.

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

+ Today, I will have great faith in what Jesus will do for me.
+ I will speak of Jesus to my friends. They, too, can receive.

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

Immediately his ears were opened and he began to speak.

THE QUICK-WITTED MOTHER (MK 7:24-30)

Prayer:

O Jesus, let me persevere in seeking your blessings.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus confronted by this mother.

Context:

This story occurs in Gentile territory with a Gentile mother and shows that Jesus’ Kingdom will spread beyond Palestine. Mark gives a developed portrait of this mother’s intense desires and ingenuity. She is the only person who ever wins a debate with Jesus.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus went to Tyre and Sidon, and entered a house so he could be hidden. There was a woman who had a daughter with an unclean spirit. As soon as she heard, she came in and fell at his feet.

She was a Gentile, a Syro-Phoenician, and she asked Jesus to cast the devil out of her daughter.

Jesus replied, “Let the sons of the house (Jews) satisfy themselves at table. It is not right to take the food of children and throw it to the dogs.” (Gentiles). But she answered, “Lord, do not the dogs under the table eat the crumbs of the children?” Jesus replied, “Because of your reply, go your way. The devil has left your daughter.”

When she came home, she found her daughter lying on the bed and the devil gone.

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

1. Jesus is seeking solitude from the crowds – going to a distant place and staying in a house.
2. The mother realizes her special opportunity. Jesus has come to her village.
3. She boldly enters the house and goes right to Jesus.
4. Even when Jesus puts her off, she does not give up.
5. Like only a mother could do, she comes up with a reply that touches the heart of Jesus.
6. His powers are so great, that he drives out the demon from afar and knows that it happened.

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

• O Jesus, You are always near. I always have a special opportunity.
• But you are hidden in my heart. I must look for you.
• Jesus, I have all my needs and you have all your power.
• You encourage me to ask. You want me to seek.
• Help me to persevere in my prayer.
• How great are your powers. You can change everything at any time.

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

+ I will see the closeness of Jesus.
+ I will believe in his powers.

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

Because of your words, the devil has left your daughter.

ONLY WHAT ENTERS THE HEART (MK 7:14-23)

Prayer:

O Jesus, let no evil designs enter my heart.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus summoning the crowd.

Context:

After his conflict with the Pharisees, Jesus summons the crowd to give his own teaching. His declares that all foods are clean. This is a gigantic help in freeing Gentile Christians from Jewish dietary laws. Then Jesus teaches the importance of inner desires.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus called the crowd to himself, saying, “Listen and understand. Nothing entering a man from without can make him evil. Only what comes out of a man defiles him. Whoever has ears let him hear.”

When he entered the house, his disciples asked him about this teaching. He replied, “Are you, also, without understanding? Whatever enters a man cannot defile him because it does not enter his heart but his stomach and is soon passed out.” In this way, he made all foods clean.

“It is what comes out of man which defiles him. From the deep recesses of his heart come wicked designs, acts of fornication, murder, adultery, greed, maliciousness, theft, deceit, sensuality, envy, blasphemy, arrogance and an obtuse spirit. All these evils come from within and they defile a man.

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

1. Whenever Jesus wants a fair audience, he calls the crowd.
2. His teaching is sound. Food does not defile. Words and deeds coming from our hearts certainly can.
3. The disciples are slow to understand. So, Jesus devotes more time to them.
4. The list of evils is overwhelming. Yet, it is true. All of these come from the human heart.
5. Jesus makes us look intently at our own hearts and what comes forth.
6. What comes out of your heart?

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

• O Jesus, I will take your words into my heart and they will make me holy.
• How many evil words and deeds come from my heart! Let me gain control.
• Teach me, Jesus. Teach me time and again. I am a slow learner.
• O Jesus, evils come forth from my unpurified heart. Cleanse the stream of my desires.
• Jesus, I am willing. You have permission to purify my heart.

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

+ I will examine the evils in my heart.
+ I will purify my heart by the sacrament of confession.

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

It is what comes forth from his heart that defiles a man.

SETTING ASIDE GOD’S COMMANDMENTS (MK 7:1-13)

Prayer:

O Jesus, let my heart be set only on the heavenly father’s will.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus in this controversy with the Pharisees.

Context:

Jesus rejects the piety of the Pharisees, who have gone off course. This gospel contains two stories, washing of hands and declaring things sacred. Each story contains a pronouncement. The critics come from Jerusalem, and Mark has to explain the Jerusalem customs for his readers in Rome.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

The Pharisees and some scribes from Jerusalem came to Jesus. They found fault with some who ate bread with unwashed hands. The Pharisees, indeed all Jews, do not eat without washing their hands according to the tradition of the elders. Also, they never eat anything from the marketplace without sprinkling it. They also observe many other customs, for example, washing cups and jugs and kettles. Therefore, the Pharisees and the scribes questioned Jesus, “Why do your disciples not follow the traditions of the Ancestors but they eat bread without washing their hands. Jesus answered, “Well did Isaiah prophecy about you hypocrites when he wrote, “This people honor me with their lips but their heart is far from me. In vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines what are merely human precepts.” You disregard God’s commandment and you cling to human tradition.

You even set aside God’s commandments. For example, Moses said, “Honor your father and your mother”, but you declare to your parents, “Any support you had from me is dedicated to God (Korban)”. Then, you do nothing for your father and mother. You nullify God’s words.

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

1. These Pharisees and scribes ignore Jesus’ great powers. They concern themselves with the disciples not washing their hands.
2. They have a whole list of rules which they call “the tradition of the elders.”
3. They attack Jesus based upon their views of religious practice.
4. Jesus sees their misguided piety. Isaiah has already confronted this problem.
5. They give their lips to God but not their hearts.
6. They nullify God’s laws and teach as divine what are merely human laws.

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

• O Jesus, you are the center of my devotion. My eyes are always upon you.
• What others do is not important. My heart is only upon you.
• Let my heart remain simple, and my piety centered on you.
• O Mary, save me from misguided piety.
• Jesus, I will obey your divine commands – to forgive, to help, and to bless everyone. Your commands are in my heart.
• Teach me your ways, O Jesus, and I will follow.

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

+ I will not judge others by my standards.
+ I will give my heart to God’s important demands.

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

They honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.

TOUCHING HIS CLOAK (MK 6:53-56)

Prayer:

Jesus, let me seek you, find you and be blessed by your power.

Imagination:

Picture the crowds pressing upon Jesus

Context:

These crowds in Galilee are enthusiastic. In fact, by their lively faith they somewhat force Jesus to heal. He seems more comfortable in the solitude of prayer or in teaching the disciples.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

When they landed on the shore at Gennesaret, the crowds immediately recognized him. Going throughout the whole countryside, they began to carry those who were sick to the place where they heard he was.

Wherever he went, into towns or villages or cities, they laid the sick on the streets and beseeched him that they be allowed to touch even the hem of his garment. As many as touched him, were made whole.

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

1. Jesus attracts the crowds. They know his power and his kindness.
2. They so desire to see Jesus that they find out where he is.
3. The people’s gigantic faith spurs gigantic efforts. They gather up all the sick from the whole countryside.
4. They do not ask Jesus to teach or even to lay hands. They only ask him to stay still until the sick touch his garment.
5. The results are amazing. Everyone gets healed. No one is sent away disappointed.

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

• O Jesus, You are so kind. You do not limit your power.
• Give me gigantic faith! A fullness of belief! An overwhelming confidence!
• I will search for you, Jesus, all the days of my life.
• Just be still, Jesus. Let me come close to you. I will stay in your presence.
• Your power will go forth. You will strengthen me and I will serve you.

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

+ Today, I will seek for Jesus, knowing that he will welcome me.
+ My faith will move me to action.

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

Wherever he went, they asked if they could just touch his garment.