Driftwood floating in the sea of the secular world cannot be lit up for it is soaked up in the cares, worries and desires of that World. Until it realises just who the creator is, how great, powerful and wonderful He is and makes its way into His hands it remains as Driftwood.

I have been tenderly dried off, having died to myself I have risen in and fashioned for; Him. The fire in me is lit and while I am not consumed by it, I burn brightly for the World to see and follow. That is His Will for me. My love for my Lord is above all and in that love and trust I offer Him everything. For I was made for Him and so is my family and He will never abandon us. I strive daily to never look back, but put my foot forward and with every step closer to the heavenly kingdom of my Father.

Lord Jesus Christ, be my guide for now and forevermore. Amen

First reading
Job 9:1-13,14-16

Gospel
Luke 9:57-62

As Jesus and his disciples travelled along they met a man on the road who said to him, ‘I will follow you wherever you go.’ Jesus answered, ‘Foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.’
  Another to whom he said, ‘Follow me’, replied, ‘Let me go and bury my father first.’ But he answered, ‘Leave the dead to bury their dead; your duty is to go and spread the news of the kingdom of God.’
  Another said, ‘I will follow you, sir, but first let me go and say goodbye to my people at home.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Once the hand is laid on the plough, no one who looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.’

I know what it is like to be a dead man walking amongst the living. For each time I fall into grave sin my life withers and dies. The warmth of Your light is diminished and I walk around clammy and cold. I mourn for my sins and turn to You, for apart from You Lord I face eternal death. Have mercy on me Lord, have mercy.

Praise be to my Lord and saviour Jesus Christ! For You ransomed Your life for me and for many, so that we have hope for an eternal life with You. You came not to condemn the world but so that we who believe may be saved through You.

Transform me by Your Word oh Lord so that I may take up my cross and resolutely follow You. Amen

First reading
Job 3:1-3,11-17,20-23

Gospel
Luke 9:51-56

As the time drew near for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely took the road for Jerusalem and sent messengers ahead of him. These set out, and they went into a Samaritan village to make preparations for him, but the people would not receive him because he was making for Jerusalem. Seeing this, the disciples James and John said, ‘Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to burn them up?’ But he turned and rebuked them, and they went off to another village.

How wonderful it must be to sing God’s praises in the company of the angelic hosts! By God’s grace, I too will one day sing in their company in heaven.

Angels of the Lord, you have been inspirations of humble service. Mighty deeds you have done manifesting God’s power. Intercede for us, protect us and heal us with your gifts so that we too may one day be worthy to stand in the presence of our loving Father.

Lord Jesus Christ, Lord of hosts have mercy on me a sinner. Make me worthy to be with You now and forever. Amen

Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels – Feast

Revelation 12:7–12ab

GOSPEL
John 1:47–51

Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Here is a true child of Israel. There is no duplicity in him.” Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”

The Will of our heavenly Father is for us to live a life fully alive in Him. Many though by their choices have abandoned Him, seeking to be fully alive through other routes; that of personal glorification, pleasures of the flesh and through many other base desires.

It is only by dying to ourselves that we can rise in our Lord.

Jesus my loving Lord, You died for us so that we may live. Grant me the wisdom, courage and strength to make the necessary choices in my life so that I may live more fully in You each passing day. Amen

First reading
Ecclesiastes 11:9-12:8

Gospel
Luke 9:43-45

At a time when everyone was full of admiration for all he did, Jesus said to his disciples, ‘For your part, you must have these words constantly in your mind: The Son of Man is going to be handed over into the power of men.’ But they did not understand him when he said this; it was hidden from them so that they should not see the meaning of it, and they were afraid to ask him about what he had just said.

I don’t have enough time in a day, I don’t even have time for myself let alone God. I pray when I can, and at least I’m there to worship Him every Sunday. What little time I have is for my family, surely God will understand?

Shouldn’t the real question be, how did time for us even come to be? If the answer we arrive at is God then should we not seek His counsel as to how we are to better manage the time given to us?

Our Lord Jesus shows us the way, by His example of love and obedience to God our heavenly Father. Everything He did or said was in His Father’s time. And I know for a fact through personal experience, that by serving Him faithfully with all my heart; my time is multiplied in a day.

O heavenly Father I love You and want to honour You all the days of my life, guide and help me better manage my resources and the time You have given me. Through Your Son Jesus Christ my Lord who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen

First reading
Ecclesiastes 3:1-11

Gospel
Luke 9:18-22

One day when Jesus was praying alone in the presence of his disciples he put this question to them, ‘Who do the crowds say I am?’ And they answered, ‘John the Baptist; others Elijah; and others say one of the ancient prophets come back to life.’ ‘But you,’ he said ‘who do you say I am?’ It was Peter who spoke up. ‘The Christ of God’ he said. But he gave them strict orders not to tell anyone anything about this.
; ‘The Son of Man’ he said ‘is destined to suffer grievously, to be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes and to be put to death, and to be raised up on the third day.’

We are young and invincible, full of vim and vigour. Everything in life is for the taking, for we are Kings and Queens of our destinies. A fantasy most live out till they come face to face with their mortality.

We let pride and sin rule our hearts and minds for we have an insatiable appetite. To fulfil our wanton desires, to lead exuberant lives and to be recognised. Never mind the spills onward with the thrills lest boredom takes over.

The Author of life made us for Himself and our hearts are restless till we rest in Him. Jesus my Lord, fill my life with the wonders of You for there is nothing else I shall want. Amen

First reading
Ecclesiastes 1:2-11

Gospel
Luke 9:7-9

Herod the tetrarch had heard about all that was being done by Jesus; and he was puzzled, because some people were saying that John had risen from the dead, others that Elijah had reappeared, still others that one of the ancient prophets had come back to life. But Herod said, ‘John? I beheaded him. So who is this I hear such reports about?’ And he was anxious to see Jesus.

Your Word is a Lamp unto my feet O Lord.

Gone are the days where darkness cast its shadow on me. And fear gripped my heart, filling it with its many facets. Fear of the unknown, of poverty, of speaking up for my faith, of speaking up for justice or righteousness, of loneliness, not being strong enough or clever enough, and of You Lord for the wrong reasons.

Your Word is a Lamp unto my feet O Lord.

My heart is glowing now, my mind illumined and I see clearly the narrow path I must walk. I see the love in the cross that I must bear. I feel the power the light of Christ dwelling in me, courage, wisdom and strength fills my being. And even as I walk through the darkest Valley, I know my Lord walks with me. Evil has no hold over me and I am free to love and serve my Lord. He prepares the table for me, my cup is full. His love and mercy surrounds me as it flows through me. I am truly blessed to be His humble servant and to call Him my master.

Your I Word is a Lamp unto my feet O Lord.

I will sing the praises of my lord! Of His great love and mercy to all who will listen. I will heal and mend in His name and gather His flock together so that I may lead them home to Him. I will fall on my knees with blood, sweat and prayer that I may raise up His kingdom. All for the glory of my lord and God.

Your I Word is a Lamp unto my feet O Lord. Amen

First reading
Proverbs 30:5-9

Gospel
Luke 9:1-6

Jesus called the Twelve together and gave them power and authority over all devils and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. He said to them, ‘Take nothing for the journey: neither staff, nor haversack, nor bread, nor money; and let none of you take a spare tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there; and when you leave, let it be from there. As for those who do not welcome you, when you leave their town shake the dust from your feet as a sign to them.’ So they set out and went from village to village proclaiming the Good News and healing everywhere.

There is often a disconnect, the Word of God whispered in our ear does not take root; hence it does not grow, thrive nor is it put into action. Either His voice has been drowned out by the voices of the world or our ears have been obstructed by the plaque of sin. Hence our hearts cannot be engaged by His transforming message and Will for us. The wonderful gift of His love and grace are not claimed.

O loving Father I realise now and for all time that You must reign first in my life. I freely give You my all, my will, my love, my heart, my head, hands and feet. Take them and make them Yours for I know that it is only then that I may truly glorify You. Through Your Word by my action, may I serve You and my brethren in and by Your infinite love for us. Amen

St Pio pray for us.

FIRST READING
Proverbs 21:1–6, 10–13

GOSPEL
Luke 8:19–21

The mother of Jesus and his brothers came to him but were unable to join him because of the crowd. He was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside and they wish to see you.” He said to them in reply, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”

It is the nature of sin to remain hidden for as long it can. We do not want our wrong doings to be made known. Or the fact that we could do good but refused to do them for selfish reasons. For most it does not even come to mind that they felt no shame committing the sin but are ashamed when it comes to light.

As for those who walk in the light of Christ. Such is the light that it cannot be contained. It shines forth from within and illumines the hearts and minds of all that it touches. It brings to light that which seeks to remain hidden; It transforms the once dark, ugly into bright and beautiful.

Lord Jesus I want to walk in Your light always, help me so that I may bring Your light to all. Amen

FIRST READING
Proverbs 3:27–34

GOSPEL
Luke 8:16–18

Jesus said to the crowd:
“No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light. Take care, then, how you hear. To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.”

The problem with most of us is that unless there is a crisis, spending time with God in prayer or reflection of His Word is a luxury. We are too busy living our lives in the way we choose for ourselves. Most believe there is comfort only in things we can see, feel, touch, smell and taste. And even then choose only the ones that give instant gratification.

The Lord says that until a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains alone. Unless we die to ourselves, we cannot rise in Him and receive His Word deep into our very beings. His Word and love which will grow in us to such an extent that we cannot contain it. And it will bursts forth from us to all.

O Lord, my God let Your Word take root in my heart. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 15:35–37, 42–49

GOSPEL
Luke 8:4–15

When a large crowd gathered, with people from one town after another journeying to Jesus, he spoke in a parable. “A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path and was trampled, and the birds of the sky ate it up. Some seed fell on rocky ground, and when it grew, it withered for lack of moisture. Some seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew with it and choked it. And some seed fell on good soil, and when it grew, it produced fruit a hundredfold.” After saying this, he called out, “Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.”

Then his disciples asked him what the meaning of this parable might be. He answered, “Knowledge of the mysteries of the Kingdom of God has been granted to you; but to the rest, they are made known through parables so that they may look but not see, and hear but not understand.

“This is the meaning of the parable. The seed is the word of God. Those on the path are the ones who have heard, but the Devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts that they may not believe and be saved. Those on rocky ground are the ones who, when they hear, receive the word with joy, but they have no root; they believe only for a time and fall away in time of temptation. As for the seed that fell among thorns, they are the ones who have heard, but as they go along, they are choked by the anxieties and riches and pleasures of life, and they fail to produce mature fruit. But as for the seed that fell on rich soil, they are the ones who, when they have heard the word, embrace it with a generous and good heart, and bear fruit through perseverance.”

Because my Lord lives, I can face tomorrow! No truer words have been said or sung. For He died for my sins and conquered death; so that I may live. A life of holiness and fullness in Him. That I may freely choose to turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospels.

Such is the good news I’ve received and I now share, so that others too might have new life in Him. And together we give testimony to our living God; of how His love and mercy has filled our lives and transformed us. How we now live in peace and joy in Him.

Lord Jesus I want to die each day to myself, so that I may rise to new life in You. Help me to overcome all that prevents me from doing so. In Your most precious name I pray. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 15:12–20

GOSPEL
Luke 8:1–3

Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God. Accompanying him were the Twelve and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their resources.

Great and bountiful is the mercy of our Lord and God! There is no sin too great that He will not forgive and all we need do is to turn to Him with our repentant hearts. He knows the pain in our heart, the burning desire to be reconciled with Him. He sees the tears we shed, the sorrow we feel for offending Him. He understands that the fear we have as a result of our sin sometimes overwhelms and prevents us from drawing close to Him. So what does He do? He embraces us with His love and fills us with His peace.

How can we ever repay Him? Simply by giving freely as we have received freely. Forgiving and embracing those who have offended us. Sharing His peace and love with all we encounter and leading His flock back into the fold.

Lord I am truly not worthy to have You enter under my roof, but only say the word and I know, I shall truly be healed. That I may honour praise and glorify You all the days of my life. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 15:1–11

GOSPEL
Luke 7:36–50

A certain Pharisee invited Jesus to dine with him, and he entered the Pharisee’s house and reclined at table. Now there was a sinful woman in the city who learned that he was at table in the house of the Pharisee. Bringing an alabaster flask of ointment, she stood behind him at his feet weeping and began to bathe his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them, and anointed them with the ointment. When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, that she is a sinner.” Jesus said to him in reply, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” “Tell me, teacher,” he said. “Two people were in debt to a certain creditor; one owed five hundred days’ wages and the other owed fifty. Since they were unable to repay the debt, he forgave it for both. Which of them will love him more?” Simon said in reply, “The one, I suppose, whose larger debt was forgiven.” He said to him, “You have judged rightly.” Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? When I entered your house, you did not give me water for my feet, but she has bathed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but she has not ceased kissing my feet since the time I entered. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she anointed my feet with ointment. So I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; hence, she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little.” He said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” The others at table said to themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” But he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

I say that I am a child of God and a disciple of Jesus my Lord. And I strive to build His Kingdom. However all my knowledge, words and actions will have little or no impact if I have not the love of God in my heart. All my good intentions will amount to little or nothing. It is in the union with my Lord and God that I can can truly love. And all else will follow, my words and deeds.

There is no such thing as a part time disciple or a lukewarm faith! For the world all its lures will overwhelm and conquer. And the worst kind of ‘disciple’ is an indifferent one. A heart which will not be moved; a heart of stone.

Lord Jesus with the love of You in my heart, let me praise and glorify my God in all that I say and do. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 12:31–13:13

GOSPEL
Luke 7:31–35

Jesus said to the crowds:
“To what shall I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? They are like children who sit in the marketplace and call to one another,

‘We played the flute for you, but you did not dance. We sang a dirge, but you did not weep.’

For John the Baptist came neither eating food nor drinking wine, and you said, ‘He is possessed by a demon.’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking and you said, ‘Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is vindicated by all her children.”

Can we build the Kingdom of God individually? Even a one man band is limited by the number of instruments and the music arrangements he can play. The philharmonic Orchestra is only as good as every member working together and playing their instruments beautifully at just the right time led by their conductor. So too it is when we as one body, with all our gifts and talents work beautifully together with Christ our head in building the kingdom of God.

Our Lord provides for what we need and can manage but if we in His love strive for more then we will be given more indeed. By His grace we can bring peace where there is none. Comfort where there is pain, joy when there is sorrow. We can bring new life to those dead in sin. The Word will set them free!

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 12:12–14, 27–31a

GOSPEL
Luke 7:11–17

Jesus journeyed to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd accompanied him. As he drew near to the gate of the city, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the city was with her. When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, “Do not weep.” He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all, and they glorified God, exclaiming, “A great prophet has arisen in our midst,” and “God has visited his people.” This report about him spread through the whole of Judea and in all the surrounding region.

When we gather for the Eucharistic celebration are we there united in prayer and worship? Or are we there individually in private worship? Do we raise up our voices as one in the hymns, Psalms and responses? Do we do a disservice to our brethren by distracting them from the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Holy Eucharist? Where is the communion if we pick and choose whom we offer the sign of peace? Where is the communion when we leave immediately after receiving our bridegroom, our Lord Jesus? Where is the communion when we leave before the final blessing and hymn is done?

The heart of our faith lies in knowing who Jesus is; in recognising Him as the Lord of Lords, King of kings. And in loving and humble worship honoring Him, the Holy Spirit and our heavenly Father by our lives in Him.

Lord Jesus it is You who make me worthy to stand before You. Help me in my desire to grow in faith, love and charity. Amen

First Reading
1 Cor 11:17-26, 33

Gospel
Lk 7:1-10

When Jesus had finished all his words to the people, he entered Capernaum. A centurion there had a slave who was ill and about to die, and he was valuable to him. When he heard about Jesus, he sent elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and save the life of his slave. They approached Jesus and strongly urged him to come, saying, “He deserves to have you do this for him, for he loves our nation and he built the synagogue for us.” And Jesus went with them, but when he was only a short distance from the house, the centurion sent friends to tell him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof. Therefore, I did not consider myself worthy to come to you; but say the word and let my servant be healed. For I too am a person subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come here,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him and, turning, said to the crowd following him, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” When the messengers returned to the house, they found the slave in good health.

Oneness with God is Oneness with His people. And so the idols of the world seeks to separate us from that Oneness. To divide our loyalty and affections. Few today whom say they believe in God our Father still perform rituals and offer sacrifices to idols ‘just in case’ or to ward off certain evil. They are blind to the Evil act itself.

What about the rest of us? The idols in our lives are more sophisticated and complex that while they are in plain view are yet not seen. Some perform rituals for beauty and vanity. Which includes hours and hours of makeovers, bodybuilding, sculpting etc. For some it is sports updates after updates, watching, betting, lenghtly discussions and debates to which team or sports person is the best. Others it is pornography and it’s many forms. And yet others it is their careers and the pursuit of climbing to the top which takes up all of their time. What are the fruits of our labour in all these? God is often far from our minds if He is present at all.

There is no greater foundation than a life built upon on our rock, our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ. He alone can calm the storms in our lives. He alone can give the joy, peace and love that we seek. He unites us all so that we live in Oneness with Him. And even though our bodies wither and die, yet we have the promise of eternal life with Him. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 10:14–22

GOSPEL
Luke 6:43–49

Jesus said to his disciples:
“A good tree does not bear rotten fruit, nor does a rotten tree bear good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit. For people do not pick figs from thornbushes, nor do they gather grapes from brambles. A good person out of the store of goodness in his heart produces good, but an evil person out of a store of evil produces evil; for from the fullness of the heart the mouth speaks.

“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ but not do what I command? I will show you what someone is like who comes to me, listens to my words, and acts on them. That one is like a man building a house, who dug deeply and laid the foundation on rock; when the flood came, the river burst against that house but could not shake it because it had been well built. But the one who listens and does not act is like a person who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the river burst against it, it collapsed at once and was completely destroyed.”

Oh the Word of my Lord, deep within my being! A song I now sing daily with joy. Such profound joy that it cannot be contained and must be shared with whomever will listen. The love of our Lord is upon me and you. For the glory of God is a human being fully alive and alive I am.

With God dwelling in my heart will I see the petty faults in others or will I instead seek out the good and draw it out to greater fruition? Recognising that I am a great sinner will I mock or chastise others for their smaller sins or instead seek to purify my heart with our Lord’s enduring love and in holiness lead my brethren into holiness too?

Oh the Word of my Lord, deep within my being. Oh the Word of my Lord fill my body, mind and soul. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 9:16–19, 22b–27

GOSPEL
Luke 6:39–42

Jesus told his disciples a parable:
“Can a blind person guide a blind person? Will not both fall into a pit? No disciple is superior to the teacher; but when fully trained, every disciple will be like his teacher. Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own? How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me remove that splinter in your eye,’ when you do not even notice the wooden beam in your own eye? You hypocrite! Remove the wooden beam from your eye first; then you will see clearly to remove the splinter in your brother’s eye.”

Why do some conjure up superstitious beliefs and customs? To worship God or an idea of God? Are not some practices idolatry? When we use complex methods to gain something or protection from something. When we classify everything as either lucky or unlucky. How can we share these with others?

To know God is to love Him and to love Him is to follow His commandments. Jesus shared two very simple uncomplicated commands, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ and ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ It is in union with these two great loves that we truly love. Love not simply of words or emotions but born out of sacrifice. Of selfless giving, heart, mind and soul put into action for the glory of God our Father.

Lord Jesus dwell in me so that I may live according to the Will of our heavenly Father. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 8:1b–7, 11–13

GOSPEL
Luke 6:27–38

Jesus said to his disciples:
“To you who hear I say, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. To the person who strikes you on one cheek, offer the other one as well, and from the person who takes your cloak, do not withhold even your tunic. Give to everyone who asks of you, and from the one who takes what is yours do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you. For if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do the same. If you lend money to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, and get back the same amount. But rather, love your enemies and do good to them, and lend expecting nothing back; then your reward will be great and you will be children of the Most High, for he himself is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as also your Father is merciful.

“Stop judging and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven. Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.”

Some of the greatest challenges for disciples of Christ come from worldly attachments. Riches, glory, entertainment and sometimes even family. The latter being one or more members for selfish reasons may hold you back from spending time doing the Lord’s work. Another reason could be that they cannot see the value or rewards in it and so want you to spend more if not all of your time in earning more money or building up your career both of which to them have tangible results. Disciples are not called to abandon their families who are in need of them but to remember the need and importance of serving the Lord our God to build His Kingdom as well.

Lord Jesus I humbly implore that You pave the way for me and I will serve You in any capacity with joy. I will gladly suffer in or for Your name. Glory to You O Lord, my God. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 7:25–31

GOSPEL
Luke 6:20–26

Raising his eyes toward his disciples Jesus said:

“Blessed are you who are poor, for the Kingdom of God is yours. Blessed are you who are now hungry, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who are now weeping, for you will laugh. Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude and insult you, and denounce your name as evil on account of the Son of Man.

Rejoice and leap for joy on that day! Behold, your reward will be great in heaven. For their ancestors treated the prophets in the same way.

But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. But woe to you who are filled now, for you will be hungry. Woe to you who laugh now, for you will grieve and weep. Woe to you when all speak well of you, for their ancestors treated the false prophets in this way.”

Even today it is tempting to quickly engage lawyers to seek justice and settlements. To make the other pay heaftily for crossing us or wronging us in some way. It does not even matter if it all started out from a petty misunderstanding. Have we tried talking it out peacefully? Where is God in this all? Do we pray for discernment on what to do first? Do we seek to forgive first followed by fraternal correction in love and charity?

We are called not simply to be followers of Christ but His disciples. And one important aspect of discipleship is the ability to bear with suffering and hardship in the service of our brethren and our loving God. Our loving Lord who never abandons us and of Whom we draw courage, wisdom and strength.

Jesus calls us all unto Himself, the faithful as well as sinners alike. By His Word we are nourished, His grace and power heals us and sets us free from evil and sin. Let us be faithful children of God, one body in Christ. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 6:1–11

GOSPEL
Luke 6:12–19

Jesus departed to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God. When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named Apostles: Simon, whom he named Peter, and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called a Zealot, and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.

And he came down with them and stood on a stretch of level ground. A great crowd of his disciples and a large number of the people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the coastal region of Tyre and Sidon came to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and even those who were tormented by unclean spirits were cured. Everyone in the crowd sought to touch him because power came forth from him and healed them all.

Can you imagine being born without the taint of sin? Pure and unblemished? A Holy child of God destined for the opportunity to bring God Himself into the world of men? And yet having the free Will to sin and to reject His Will if one so chooses? To carry the piercing burden of knowing the hearts of men and still continue to love and guide them all towards repentance; so that they may have life with the Holy Trinity, one God?

O Mary blessed mother of Jesus and mother to us all we love and thank you for all you have done and continue to do. By your yes to God, of which we all strive to emulate; Jesus is with us. And through Him we are set free to live, love and serve our heavenly Father and one another.

We your children wish you a blessed happy birthday!

Glory and Praise be to your Son, our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ. Amen

The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Feast

FIRST READING
Micah 5:1–4a

Gospel
Matthew1:18–23

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:

Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,

which means “God is with us.”

We can all use discipline in our lives even in the worship of our Heavenly Father. We need to abide by His commandments and statutes given to us in Love. The problem arises when we take the love out from them, what then happens? We become rigid, calculative,cold and soon we deceive ourselves that our thoughts and discernment of them are still from God.

The heart of a disciple of Jesus lies in His cross. The ultimate sign of love, Christ gave up His life for us so that we may live. And so when we die to ourselves so that others may live, we bear our cross with Him.

Jesus my Lord, I am Your disciple. Give me the courage, strength and grace to persevere in the carrying of my cross; of which I gladly do so for the love of You. Amen.

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 4:6b–15

GOSPEL
Luke 6:1–5

While Jesus was going through a field of grain on a sabbath, his disciples were picking the heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands, and eating them. Some Pharisees said, “Why are you doing what is unlawful on the sabbath?” Jesus said to them in reply, “Have you not read what David did when he and those who were with him were hungry? How he went into the house of God, took the bread of offering, which only the priests could lawfully eat, ate of it, and shared it with his companions?” Then he said to them, “The Son of Man is lord of the sabbath.”

Nothing is hidden from God our heavenly Father. He knows all that is hidden in our hearts. And in His mercy He gives us time to mend our waywardnes. Let us examine our conscience and reconcile with our heavenly Father. So that His saving grace through His Son Jesus may grant us new life.

For unless our hearts are transformed to receive the abundant love and graces He wants us to have, we limit ourselves. Our hearts remain small and petty, seeking to glorify only ourselves and at times by putting others down.

Lord Jesus I offer myself to You, a living sacrifice. Let Your Will be done. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 4:1–5

GOSPEL
Luke 5:33–39

The scribes and Pharisees said to Jesus,
“The disciples of John the Baptist fast often and offer prayers, and the disciples of the Pharisees do the same; but yours eat and drink.” Jesus answered them, “Can you make the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, and when the bridegroom is taken away from them, then they will fast in those days.” And he also told them a parable. “No one tears a piece from a new cloak to patch an old one. Otherwise, he will tear the new and the piece from it will not match the old cloak. Likewise, no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the new wine will burst the skins, and it will be spilled, and the skins will be ruined. Rather, new wine must be poured into fresh wineskins. And no one who has been drinking old wine desires new, for he says, ‘The old is good.’”

In and by my own wisdom what have I accomplished? How many lives have I touched? How many have been transformed, brought into holiness? How have I lived my heavenly Father’s Will for me?

The Word made flesh draws everyone to Himself and anyone who hears His words will follow Him. But how do I hear His Word if I don’t first acknowledge my weaknesses? My sinfulness? Fall on my knees and ask for mercy, forgiveness. Let His wisdom and love be poured into my heart.

Jesus my Lord, I have witnessed the power of Your Word. Let me share Your Word with all and through wisdom. May I continue to be your humble servant gathering Your people unto yourself. And even if there are hardships and tears, I together with my brethren are assured of Your loving embrace. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 3:18–23

GOSPEL
Luke 5:1–11

While the crowd was pressing in on Jesus and listening to the word of God, he was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret. He saw two boats there alongside the lake; the fishermen had disembarked and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, he asked him to put out a short distance from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. After he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.” Simon said in reply, “Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command I will lower the nets.” When they had done this, they caught a great number of fish and their nets were tearing. They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come to help them. They came and filled both boats so that the boats were in danger of sinking. When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at the knees of Jesus and said, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” For astonishment at the catch of fish they had made seized him and all those with him, and likewise James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners of Simon. Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” When they brought their boats to the shore, they left everything and followed him.

We want to grow in our faith, we want our intercessions and personal prayers to be heard. We want Lord to speak to us and yet we hear nothing. Have we silenced our worldly thoughts? Have we drowned out the noise of the world? Have we quashed personal ambition, envy of status and all other forms of bickering and rivalry? Have we emptied ourselves save for the desire to know, love and serve our Lord and God?

When we have done so, slowly and surely more will be poured out unto us. We know that and can witness that all our prayers are answered. Often we witness His great power through our intercession for others. But even if or when the answer to our prayers is a No; we are grateful still, for we know in His love, mercy and infinite Wisdom it is the best answer for us.

Jesus my Lord, You came so that we might have new life in You. And while we continue pray for healing for the many afflictions that ail us. Fill in our hearts the burning desire to share the message of Your love and salvation for many. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 3:1–9

GOSPEL
Luke 4:38–44

After Jesus left the synagogue, he entered the house of Simon. Simon’s mother–in–law was afflicted with a severe fever, and they interceded with him about her. He stood over her, rebuked the fever, and it left her. She got up immediately and waited on them.

At sunset, all who had people sick with various diseases brought them to him. He laid his hands on each of them and cured them. And demons also came out from many, shouting, “You are the Son of God.” But he rebuked them and did not allow them to speak because they knew that he was the Christ.

At daybreak, Jesus left and went to a deserted place. The crowds went looking for him, and when they came to him, they tried to prevent him from leaving them. But he said to them, “To the other towns also I must proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God, because for this purpose I have been sent.” And he was preaching in the synagogues of Judea.

By the choices I made, I had many demons within me. Pride assured me that the knowledge I had of my faith was sufficient and my understanding of it was always correct. No one could or should attempt to teach me unless I permit it. And besides all other spiritual things are foolish nonsense. Lust drew me close and whispered that it was only a normal human condition to desire fulfilment. Greed showed me that I wanted more and needed more, more is always better than less. Rage bellowed that it is better to feared than to be loved! All my senses were dulled to the Word of God.

Jesus my Lord set me free! By His Word I was liberated from the bondage of sin and was transformed. Once again I can hear the voice of God my heavenly Father. I can sing my praises of Him together with His angels. I can see, smell, touch and experience the divine love of God.

Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son,
and to the Holy Spirit:
As it was in the beginning,
is now,
and ever shall be,
world without end.
Amen.

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 2:10b–16

GOSPEL
Luke 4:31–37

Jesus went down to Capernaum, a town of Galilee. He taught them on the sabbath, and they were astonished at his teaching because he spoke with authority. In the synagogue there was a man with the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out in a loud voice, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are–the Holy One of God!” Jesus rebuked him and said, “Be quiet! Come out of him!” Then the demon threw the man down in front of them and came out of him without doing him any harm. They were all amazed and said to one another, “What is there about his word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out.” And news of him spread everywhere in the surrounding region.