Matthew 4: 12-23
Now when he heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth he went and dwelt in Caper'na-um by the sea, in the territory of Zeb'ulun and Naph'tali, that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: "The land of Zeb'ulun and the land of Naph'tali, toward the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles -- the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned." From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. And he said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." Immediately they left their nets and followed him. And going on from there he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zeb'edee and John his brother, in the boat with Zeb'edee their father, mending their nets, and he called them. Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him. And he went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every infirmity among the people.
Reflection
Wow! These guys dropped everything and left. Can you imagine if the Lord came to you tomorrow and said, "I need you to come with me, now. Drop everything. Let's go!" Part of me would be so excited and overwhelmed to see Jesus that I might collapse in joy and fear. Part of me would be terrified, because I am definitely not ready for my judgment. And, part of me would hesitate: but what about the kids? the laundry? the dinner on the stove? That's called doubt, and I've got plenty of it.
My current naptime reading (this is what I read with one hand while I rub my 2 1/2 year old's back with the other hand until he falls asleep, so he will actually take a nap most days) is called You're Late Again, Lord! The book itself is short and sweet, but not profound - while you're waiting for whatever it is you want or think you need, be sure to wait with purpose. Look for the lesson in the moment, the opportunity to improve yourself now, because God gave you this time of waiting for a reason.
Another book I read before marriage, called Lady in Waiting, gives almost identical advice to women waiting for a husband. Prepare yourself. Take the time you have to grow closer to God, so He can make you ready for the man He wants you to marry. I highly recommend this book for single women hoping for or discerning marriage.
How good am I at waiting? How good am I at responding to God's call when it does happen? Do I have doubts that keep me from surrendering to God's will? Do I believe that He is not trying to punish me by making me wait, just refine me? Do I resent that I need to be refined in order to reach what I think I need? What is God calling me to do today in my life? Am I dropping everything to obey? Do I embrace the current purpose God has for me, regardless of whether I think it is useful or best? Do I ask God too many "why" questions?
I am definitely struggling to let go of everything I think I need, my nets and boats, and walk down the path Christ is leading me. He knows what is best, not me. That's right. He knows what is best, NOT me. And, even though I can't see one step in front of me, I will continue to pray for the courage to keep following Him, one step at a time.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Sunday, January 20, 2008 ~ Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
John 1: 29-34
The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, `After me comes a man who ranks before me, for he was before me.' I myself did not know him; but for this I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel." And John bore witness, "I saw the Spirit descend as a dove from heaven, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him; but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, `He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.' And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God."
Reflection
John believed. He proclaims in a confident voice that Jesus is the Son of God. Do I? How many times do I shy away from speaking about Christ or God's role in my life? Am I fearful of what others may think or say in response? In this Gospel passage, we are given the opportunity to renew our commitment to evangelization. This seems only proper in the secularized culture of today.
Jesus can and will take away the sins of the world. Our sins are great, but His power is greater. John the Baptist proclaimed this to all who would listen. He bore witness and baptized many to free them from their sins. This week is the 34th anniversary of our Supreme Court's horrendous decision to allow the murder of an unborn child at any time from conception until birth. Those who have cooperated in, supported, or been involved with the legal killing of more than 600,000,000 babies through chemical or surgical abortions in our country need Christ's mercy. Will you give it to them?
How often do I get a chance to subtly speak up for life? Do I speak properly to and about those women who are pregnant, speaking of the children as already living? These women are expecting the birth of their babies, but they already have a new family member! When I see pregnant women, do I remind my children there is a baby in their tummy, speaking loudly enough for those around me to hear? Do I encourage women to celebrate the closeness they share with their unborn child, in spite of her many discomforts?
Do I know anyone who has lost a baby due to miscarriage or stillbirth? Do I speak of and regard that family's loss with the same regard as one who has had an older child die? Most people agree it is a great tragedy for a parent to watch a child die, but we forget this applies to unborn children, as well. Holding a funeral and/or Mass for the children, sending cards of condolence, and offering prayers for the child and family are essential to healing these wounds. How do I minister to others who are in such pain?
Many thought John the Baptist was crazy. He wore a camel hair shirt and ate honey and locusts! What wild things do we do for our faith in Jesus Christ? Maybe some of our family or friends do think we are crazy for the unique way we live our lives, whether that be attending certain churches or Masses, catechizing our children, praying the family Rosary, or simply speaking of Christ in an easy way. Do I shy away from such skepticism? Or do I continue to shamelessly proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord and that He takes away even the worst sins? Do I love my neighbor enough to share Christ's mercy with him or her, regardless of the personal cost?
The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, `After me comes a man who ranks before me, for he was before me.' I myself did not know him; but for this I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel." And John bore witness, "I saw the Spirit descend as a dove from heaven, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him; but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, `He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.' And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God."
Reflection
John believed. He proclaims in a confident voice that Jesus is the Son of God. Do I? How many times do I shy away from speaking about Christ or God's role in my life? Am I fearful of what others may think or say in response? In this Gospel passage, we are given the opportunity to renew our commitment to evangelization. This seems only proper in the secularized culture of today.
Jesus can and will take away the sins of the world. Our sins are great, but His power is greater. John the Baptist proclaimed this to all who would listen. He bore witness and baptized many to free them from their sins. This week is the 34th anniversary of our Supreme Court's horrendous decision to allow the murder of an unborn child at any time from conception until birth. Those who have cooperated in, supported, or been involved with the legal killing of more than 600,000,000 babies through chemical or surgical abortions in our country need Christ's mercy. Will you give it to them?
How often do I get a chance to subtly speak up for life? Do I speak properly to and about those women who are pregnant, speaking of the children as already living? These women are expecting the birth of their babies, but they already have a new family member! When I see pregnant women, do I remind my children there is a baby in their tummy, speaking loudly enough for those around me to hear? Do I encourage women to celebrate the closeness they share with their unborn child, in spite of her many discomforts?
Do I know anyone who has lost a baby due to miscarriage or stillbirth? Do I speak of and regard that family's loss with the same regard as one who has had an older child die? Most people agree it is a great tragedy for a parent to watch a child die, but we forget this applies to unborn children, as well. Holding a funeral and/or Mass for the children, sending cards of condolence, and offering prayers for the child and family are essential to healing these wounds. How do I minister to others who are in such pain?
Many thought John the Baptist was crazy. He wore a camel hair shirt and ate honey and locusts! What wild things do we do for our faith in Jesus Christ? Maybe some of our family or friends do think we are crazy for the unique way we live our lives, whether that be attending certain churches or Masses, catechizing our children, praying the family Rosary, or simply speaking of Christ in an easy way. Do I shy away from such skepticism? Or do I continue to shamelessly proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord and that He takes away even the worst sins? Do I love my neighbor enough to share Christ's mercy with him or her, regardless of the personal cost?
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Sunday, January 13, 2008 ~ The Baptism of the Lord
Matthew 3: 13-17
Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now; for thus it is fitting for us to fulfil all righteousness." Then he consented. And when Jesus was baptized, he went up immediately from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and alighting on him; and lo, a voice from heaven, saying, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased."
Reflection
My children are fascinated by this story. My husband tells it to them over and over. I believe it proves to them that something miraculous happens at Baptisms, even without the dove from Heaven and with babies who cry through the whole rite. But, do I believe it? More singularly, do I believe my Baptism changed me? The curiosity of children surrounding baptism is pure and proper. How can I see baptism through a child's eyes?
Since I have been baptized, there is now an indelible mark on my soul, a mark that claims me for Christ and insists that I live by His teachings. Do I? Do I fully live out my baptismal call to live as He wills? What does my baptismal call mean to me?
It is fitting near the start of a new year that we examine our purpose and goals in carrying out our baptismal call to be Christ to others. How am I faring in my path to sanctity? Do I need to make corrections where I have gone astray? Are my priorities in proper order? How do I share Christ's love with those in my family? with friends? with co-workers? with strangers? Are my New Year's Resolutions all about me or are they about others?
In what ways am I continually growing in sanctity? What personal weaknesses sometimes lead me off course? What are the opportunities in my life that make it possible for me to grow closer to God on a daily basis? Most importantly, what things are (or can be) obstacles to my intimacy with Christ and service to others? Make a list of these strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats and plan for how to capitalize on the opportunities and eliminate the obstacles this year.
Jesus was baptized to show us His humanity and His divinity all in one moment. The sacrament preceded his Proclamation of the Kingdom here on Earth. May we see our baptism through the eyes of a child once again and recognize that truly something remarkable happens. Let us embrace the graces given to us, so we can truly grow in holiness and greater intimacy with Christ Jesus this year.
Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now; for thus it is fitting for us to fulfil all righteousness." Then he consented. And when Jesus was baptized, he went up immediately from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and alighting on him; and lo, a voice from heaven, saying, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased."
Reflection
My children are fascinated by this story. My husband tells it to them over and over. I believe it proves to them that something miraculous happens at Baptisms, even without the dove from Heaven and with babies who cry through the whole rite. But, do I believe it? More singularly, do I believe my Baptism changed me? The curiosity of children surrounding baptism is pure and proper. How can I see baptism through a child's eyes?
Since I have been baptized, there is now an indelible mark on my soul, a mark that claims me for Christ and insists that I live by His teachings. Do I? Do I fully live out my baptismal call to live as He wills? What does my baptismal call mean to me?
It is fitting near the start of a new year that we examine our purpose and goals in carrying out our baptismal call to be Christ to others. How am I faring in my path to sanctity? Do I need to make corrections where I have gone astray? Are my priorities in proper order? How do I share Christ's love with those in my family? with friends? with co-workers? with strangers? Are my New Year's Resolutions all about me or are they about others?
In what ways am I continually growing in sanctity? What personal weaknesses sometimes lead me off course? What are the opportunities in my life that make it possible for me to grow closer to God on a daily basis? Most importantly, what things are (or can be) obstacles to my intimacy with Christ and service to others? Make a list of these strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats and plan for how to capitalize on the opportunities and eliminate the obstacles this year.
Jesus was baptized to show us His humanity and His divinity all in one moment. The sacrament preceded his Proclamation of the Kingdom here on Earth. May we see our baptism through the eyes of a child once again and recognize that truly something remarkable happens. Let us embrace the graces given to us, so we can truly grow in holiness and greater intimacy with Christ Jesus this year.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Sunday, January 6, 2008 ~ The Epiphany of the Lord
Matthew 2: 1-12
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, "Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the East, and have come to worship him." When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it is written by the prophet: `And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will govern my people Israel.'" Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star appeared; and he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him bring me word, that I too may come and worship him." When they had heard the king they went their way; and lo, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy; and going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.
Reflection
I have previously reflected on the humility the Lord demands of us. In this Gospel, He is again demonstrating the high ideal of lowliness we should all strive to achieve. These three kings, wise men, magi, revered in their fields, travel miles and miles to follow a star and seek a new king. Unlike Herod, they are not concerned their kingdoms or wisdom will be usurped by a tiny baby. They only want to worship Him and pay Him homage.
How humble am I? In this new year, in what ways is Christ calling me to humble myself before His presence? Do I shudder at the thought of seeing my control over my life slip through my fingers or do I embrace each moment as God's gift, seeking God's will only? Have I surrendered my everything to Him?
In college a friend of mine wrote a song that touched me deeply. It was about the Gospel passage where the woman breaks her alabaster jar and anoints the Lord's head and dries her tears from his feet with her hair. The picture is breathtaking, as I imagine it. The chorus of her song is my biggest New Year's resolution, and I hope she won't mind if I share it with you, as well.
*from "Alabaster Jar" by Kristy Cranley & Rita Patino
Take my heart, O Lord, and break me.
Break my heart, Lord Jesus, and take me.
Open my arms and my eyes to Your will.
Here is my alabaster jar.
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, "Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the East, and have come to worship him." When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it is written by the prophet: `And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will govern my people Israel.'" Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star appeared; and he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him bring me word, that I too may come and worship him." When they had heard the king they went their way; and lo, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy; and going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.
Reflection
I have previously reflected on the humility the Lord demands of us. In this Gospel, He is again demonstrating the high ideal of lowliness we should all strive to achieve. These three kings, wise men, magi, revered in their fields, travel miles and miles to follow a star and seek a new king. Unlike Herod, they are not concerned their kingdoms or wisdom will be usurped by a tiny baby. They only want to worship Him and pay Him homage.
How humble am I? In this new year, in what ways is Christ calling me to humble myself before His presence? Do I shudder at the thought of seeing my control over my life slip through my fingers or do I embrace each moment as God's gift, seeking God's will only? Have I surrendered my everything to Him?
In college a friend of mine wrote a song that touched me deeply. It was about the Gospel passage where the woman breaks her alabaster jar and anoints the Lord's head and dries her tears from his feet with her hair. The picture is breathtaking, as I imagine it. The chorus of her song is my biggest New Year's resolution, and I hope she won't mind if I share it with you, as well.
*from "Alabaster Jar" by Kristy Cranley & Rita Patino
Take my heart, O Lord, and break me.
Break my heart, Lord Jesus, and take me.
Open my arms and my eyes to Your will.
Here is my alabaster jar.
Sunday, December 30, 2007 ~ The Holy Family
***New Year's Resolution - update blog every week, preferably on Wednesdays :-)
Matthew 2: 13-15, 19-23
Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him." And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfil what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, "Out of Egypt have I called my son." But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, "Rise, take the child and his mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child's life are dead." And he rose and took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus reigned over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. And he went and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, "He shall be called a Nazarene."
Reflection
Again, we have an amazing account of Joseph's faithfulness. According to this account, he received these messages in his dreams and the next morning, upon awaking, obeyed. When I was in college, discerning my vocation, one of our priests was known to tell young men discerning the priesthood that if they have a vocation, do not delay! I believe Pope John Paul the Great also exhorted young men this way.
How often do I delay in fulfilling God's will? Remembering the times I have felt complete peace about some decision or plan of action, have I acted immediately? Or do I wait? Do I begin to doubt if it was really from God or if I heard Him correctly? Do I begin to wonder if my own weakness will prevent His will from being accomplished? Do I believe the course is too drastic or sudden of a change for me and/or my family?
Joseph gets up after a dream and leaves one country for another. He subsequently gets up after a dream and changes his ultimate destination. Can you imagine traveling with a woman and young child, knowing He is Jesus the Lord and making such decisions? If you are a man and you can, then you are a worthy head of your family. If you are a woman, would you trust your husband if he came to you saying he saw an angel in his dream?
God speaks to us all in a multitude of mysterious ways, but most of us know the peace we feel when we hear Him speak. With the new year approaching, let us pray longingly for that peace, for that momentary encounter with the Divine, when we hear Him speak to us personally. And, let us pray for the faith and courage to obey His will without delay, turning over our human weakness to His almighty power.
Matthew 2: 13-15, 19-23
Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him." And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfil what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, "Out of Egypt have I called my son." But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, "Rise, take the child and his mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child's life are dead." And he rose and took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus reigned over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. And he went and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, "He shall be called a Nazarene."
Reflection
Again, we have an amazing account of Joseph's faithfulness. According to this account, he received these messages in his dreams and the next morning, upon awaking, obeyed. When I was in college, discerning my vocation, one of our priests was known to tell young men discerning the priesthood that if they have a vocation, do not delay! I believe Pope John Paul the Great also exhorted young men this way.
How often do I delay in fulfilling God's will? Remembering the times I have felt complete peace about some decision or plan of action, have I acted immediately? Or do I wait? Do I begin to doubt if it was really from God or if I heard Him correctly? Do I begin to wonder if my own weakness will prevent His will from being accomplished? Do I believe the course is too drastic or sudden of a change for me and/or my family?
Joseph gets up after a dream and leaves one country for another. He subsequently gets up after a dream and changes his ultimate destination. Can you imagine traveling with a woman and young child, knowing He is Jesus the Lord and making such decisions? If you are a man and you can, then you are a worthy head of your family. If you are a woman, would you trust your husband if he came to you saying he saw an angel in his dream?
God speaks to us all in a multitude of mysterious ways, but most of us know the peace we feel when we hear Him speak. With the new year approaching, let us pray longingly for that peace, for that momentary encounter with the Divine, when we hear Him speak to us personally. And, let us pray for the faith and courage to obey His will without delay, turning over our human weakness to His almighty power.
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