Author: Flame of Love

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

Prayer:

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

Imagination:

Picture Mary speaking with the Angel.

Context:

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

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let it be done to me according to your word.

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 FIG TREE (LK 13:1-9)

Prayer:

O Lord Jesus, let me use my time to repent and receive the Kingdom.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus speaking to the crowds.

Context:

Although the judgment is inevitable, God marvelously extends the time for repentance. This is the gift of the Fig Tree Parable. In Palestine, the first three years of a fig tree’s growth were allowed to elapse without the owner seeking fruit. In the parable, another three years has passed, a total of six years.
The fig tree absorbs large amounts of nourishment, thus depriving surrounding vines of their needed sustenance. Fertilizing a fig tree is highly unusual. This tree, therefore, will receive special, unmerited care.
The owner’s patience is past its limits, yet his mercy grants a stay of execution. When this extra year is over, no human power can prolong the time of salvation.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

A man planted a fig tree in his vineyard and came to gather its fruit. He said to the gardener, “For three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and have found none. So, cut it down. Why should it continue to exhaust the soil?”
The gardener answered him, “Lord, let it alone for one year more. I will dig around it and put manure on it. Hopefully, it will bear fruit. If not, then you can cut it down.”

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

1. The vineyard represents all of creation. The fig tree is each person.
2. Three years represents a fullness of time, certainly enough for the fig tree to blossom.
3. The owner’s expectations are reasonable. A fig tree should produce figs. His decision is just. He has sought fruit for three years.
4. Even so, the tree will be given more time. It will even receive the special care of fertilizer to nourish it.
5. However, the farmer’s mercy cannot totally excuse the fig tree. It must respond to all these helps and produce life.

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

• O God, you have given me so much, for such a long time.
• You ask only that I produce virtues according to my state in life.
• Jesus, how patient you have been with me. Year after year you came looking for virtues.
• You even use your choicest graces, surrounding me with every possible help.
• Jesus, I will delay no longer. I will choose a devout life and bring forth virtues.
• When you come next year, I will have fruit for you.

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

+ I will look at my whole life and see all that God has provided.
+ I will no longer delay. I will no longer put off my decision. I know what God is calling me to do.

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

“Lord, give it another year. If it bears no fruit, then cut it down.”

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.

JOSEPH’S DILEMMA (MT 1:16,18-21)

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 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.

THE TRANSFIGURATION (Lk 9:27-36)

Prayer:

O Jesus, take me up the mountain with you.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus transfigured in glory with his 3 apostles.

Context:

Peter has just proclaimed (by faith) that Jesus is the Messiah. Now, these three apostles experience Jesus as the Messiah. Also, the Father says that Jesus is his “Beloved Son”, the same title given at Jesus’ Baptism. Elijah and Moses appear. They, too, share in Jesus’ fullness. All of these religious experiences confirm that Jesus is the Messiah.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus took Peter, James and John up a high mountain to pray. While he was praying, his face changed in appearance and his clothes became dazzlingly white. Suddenly, two men were talking with him – Moses and Elijah. They appeared in glory and spoke of his passage which he was about to fulfill in Jerusalem. Peter and those with him had fallen asleep. When they woke, they saw his glory and the two men with him. As the two men were leaving, Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good for us to be here. Let us make three tents – one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” He did not realize what he said.
A cloud overshadowed them. They were afraid as Moses and Elijah entered into the cloud. A voice came out of the cloud and said, “This is my Beloved Son, listen to him.” Then, they were alone with Jesus. The disciples kept quiet, telling nothing of what they had seen to anyone.

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

1. The three apostles had no idea where Jesus was taking them. They just followed him in faith.
2. Upon arriving, they had the greatest possible religious experience. They saw Jesus in his glory.
3. Even more, Moses and Elijah speak with Jesus about his future death in Jerusalem.
4. Peter experiences overwhelming joy. He wants to erect three tents and stay there.
5. The Father enters the scene with a clear message. Jesus is his Son and they must listen.
6. The holiness and power of God overwhelm them.
7. Fortunately, when all is over, Jesus remains with them.
8. The gift remains locked in their hearts until after Jesus rises from the dead.

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

• O Jesus, every morning I will ascend the mountain of prayer.
• I will meet you, Jesus. I will see your glory and you will claim my heart.
• You are the center of all history. You are the whole purpose of my life.
• The Father speaks. I hear his words. He tells me who you are.
• O Jesus, I will listen only to you.
• Your glory fills me with a fear. Let me never be separated from you.
• O Jesus, stay with me.

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

+ I will be faithful to daily mental prayer.
+ I will remain with Jesus, never walking away from him.

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

Listen to the Beloved Son and you can be transformed.

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 (LK 4:1-13)

Prayer:

O Jesus, help me to remain faithful to you in all my temptations.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus tempted by Satan.

Context:

These temptations show that Jesus experienced temptations just as we do. By going into the desert, Jesus is like the Israelites who spent forty years there. However, they constantly failed and many never entered the Promised Land. In contrast, Jesus triumphs over Satan and gains the Kingdom of Heaven for us.

Gospel text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)

Jesus, filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the desert. He was there forty days and was tempted by the devil. Since he ate nothing, when the days were over he was hungry. The devil said, “If you are the Son of God, say to this stone that it become bread.” Jesus answered, “It is written that man does not live on bread alone but on every word of God.”
The devil led him to a high mountain, and in a single instant showed him all the Kingdoms of the world. He said, “I will give you all this power and all this glory, for they are mine and I give them to whomever I will. Just adore me and they are all yours”. Jesus said in reply, “You shall adore the Lord your God and him alone shall you serve.” He brought Jesus to Jerusalem and set him on 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 over you. In their hands they will lift you up so you do not dash your foot against the stone.’” Jesus answered, “It is said, ‘You shall not tempt the Lord your God.’” When these temptations were over, the devil left him for a time.

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

1. Jesus is both “full of the Spirit” and “led by the Spirit”. He was totally obedient to the Spirit.
2. The Spirit allows Jesus to be tempted, knowing that he will win the victory.
3. Sure enough, Satan takes the bait.  He is in for a surprise.
4. Since Jesus is hungry, Satan offers him food.
5. Jesus’ hunger is for God’s word.
6. The devil offers him all the world’s glory.
7. However, the Father claims Jesus’ heart and worldly glory means nothing.
8. Jesus is invited to avoid the cross. A miraculous saving by angels will convince all that Jesus is the Messiah.
9. Jesus refuses to abandon the Father’s plan.  The Kingdom will come by the cross.
10. Satan leaves.  He waits for another chance.  He will be there at Calvary.

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

• O Holy Spirit, fill me and lead me. 
• O Jesus, you want me to win the victory.
• Help me to conquer my sensual appetites.
• O Jesus, what is worldly glory compared to the glory of your Kingdom?
• You already own the world.  You are Lord of heaven and earth.
• O Jesus, you send your angels to protect me.
• Together, we will win the victory.

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

+ I will avoid all temptations.
+ While being tempted, I will remember the word of God.

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

When the temptations were over, the devil left 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.