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All our sisters and brothers in Christ now the Holy ones of our Heavenly Father once struggled as we do. They strived daily to avoid sin and to overcome temptations because they loved God more than anything and anyone.

They prayed fervently as they did so frequently. With the Word of God in their hearts they carried their crosses joyfully. They are fully aware and understand the daily trials we go through each day. And now as they are in full communion with our one triune God, why do we rarely if at all; ask them to intercede for us? Why do we not try to learn and emulate their lives?

Lord Jesus we love you and look forward to one day reunite ourselves with You and our brethren now in heaven. Help us remain steadfast in Your Love. Amen

Blessed mother Mary pray for us.

First reading
Apocalypse 7:2-4,9-14

Second reading
1 John 3:1-3

Gospel
Matthew 5:1-12

Seeing the crowds, Jesus went up the hill. There he sat down and was joined by his disciples. Then he began to speak. This is what he taught them:
‘How happy are the poor in spirit;
theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Happy the gentle:
they shall have the earth for their heritage.
Happy those who mourn:
they shall be comforted.
Happy those who hunger and thirst for what is right: they shall be satisfied.
Happy the merciful:
they shall have mercy shown them.
Happy the pure in heart:
they shall see God.
Happy the peacemakers:
they shall be called sons of God.
Happy those who are persecuted in the cause of right:
theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
‘Happy are you when people abuse you and persecute you and speak all kinds of calumny against you on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.’

How can we not be afraid when we live in a wicked world? If it is better to be safe then sorry, why should I stir up trouble by speaking about my faith when it might get me killed or beaten if I were in the wrong place at the wrong time? Is it not better to speak only to a select small group who would listen? Why choose to be frowned upon or ostracised by a larger group who might not even listen?

It did not occur to me then as it does now, that the fear I had was the same one; from the Evil one which kept me bound and gagged. You Dear Lord saved and set me free. Free from sin and safe from all distress to love and serve You and my brethren. To boldly share the message of salvation with vigour, power, love and self control.

For we live not of this world but for the Kingdom of our heavenly Father to come. Amen

First reading
Ephesians 6:10-20

Gospel
Luke 13:31-35

Some Pharisees came up. ‘Go away’ they said. ‘Leave this place, because Herod means to kill you.’ He replied, ‘You may go and give that fox this message: Learn that today and tomorrow I cast out devils and on the third day attain my end. But for today and tomorrow and the next day I must go on, since it would not be right for a prophet to die outside Jerusalem.
‘Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you that kill the prophets and stone those who are sent to you! How often have I longed to gather your children, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you refused! So be it! Your house will be left to you. Yes, I promise you, you shall not see me till the time comes when you say:
‘Blessings on him who comes in the name of the Lord!’

In faith as in life we wear many hats, that is we take on many different roles. We are teammates, managers, supervisors, workers, parents, children, church leaders, lay people and so on. However in all our different roles do we exude one persona of a Christ centred disciple? Does the love of Christ shine through us and touch the lives of all those arround us especially those whom we serve? Or have we cast a shadow of doubt by our words or actions? Perhaps inadvertently even resentment?

O Lord my God, I seek to enter by the narrow door. Guide me in Your ways that I may humbly serve You and my brethren according to Your Will. Amen

First reading
Ephesians 6:1-9

Gospel
Luke 13:22-30

Through towns and villages Jesus went teaching, making his way to Jerusalem. Someone said to him, ‘Sir, will there be only a few saved?’ He said to them, ‘Try your best to enter by the narrow door, because, I tell you, many will try to enter and will not succeed.
‘Once the master of the house has got up and locked the door, you may find yourself knocking on the door, saying, “Lord, open to us” but he will answer, “I do not know where you come from.” Then you will find yourself saying, “We once ate and drank in your company; you taught in our streets” but he will reply, “I do not know where you come from. Away from me, all you wicked men!”
Then there will be weeping and grinding of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and yourselves turned outside. And men from east and west, from north and south, will come to take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God.
‘Yes, there are those now last who will be first, and those now first who will be last.’

How wonderful it is to belong to God’s family! But do we embrace the depths of this reality? That we on earth are ‘works in progress’ in becoming Saints. That we are in communion with our sisters and brothers who have become Saints. That they are fully alive in Christ In heaven praying for us, interceding for us. That we the faithful will one day be reunited in heaven.

O Heavenly Father You shower us with Your love daily. And we praise and thank You for the beauty that surrounds us. We look forward each day to meet up with You in prayer. Your Word comforts as Your grace rejuvenates us. How wonderful it is to seek Your counsel. We worship and love You. Amen

St Simon and St Jude pray for us.

(Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles – Feast)

First reading
Ephesians 2:19-22

Gospel
Luke 6:12-16

Jesus went out into the hills to pray; and he spent the whole night in prayer to God. When day came he summoned his disciples and picked out twelve of them; he called them ‘apostles’: Simon whom he called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon called the Zealot, Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot who became a traitor.

Why is it so difficult to remain in the light Lord? Why do I partake in banter which is against the spirit? Why does my loins tingle at the thought of unbridled passion? What must I do to subdue the want of fortune and fame? How do I remain pure and not fall back into the darkness You had carried me out of?

Everything else in my life is fleeting Lord! The only thing that was ever constant is Your peace and love upon me. And so my sweet saviour, I choose to love You more than anything or anyone else in my life. I choose to give You the truth of my heart. And as I battle with the temptations that come my way and the struggles that I must face. I know I have You on my side to liberate me from all that seek to hold me back and to destroy me.

Lord help me remain steadfast in Your love. Amen

First reading
Ephesians 4:32-5:8

Gospel
Luke 13:10-17

One sabbath day Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues, and a woman was there who for eighteen years had been possessed by a spirit that left her enfeebled; she was bent double and quite unable to stand upright. When Jesus saw her he called her over and said, ‘Woman, you are rid of your infirmity’ and he laid his hands on her. And at once she straightened up, and she glorified God.
But the synagogue official was indignant because Jesus had healed on the sabbath, and he addressed the people present. ‘There are six days’ he said ‘when work is to be done. Come and be healed on one of those days and not on the sabbath.’ But the Lord answered him. ‘Hypocrites!’ he said ‘Is there one of you who does not untie his ox or his donkey from the manger on the sabbath and take it out for watering? And this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan has held bound these eighteen years – was it not right to untie her bonds on the sabbath day?’ When he said this, all his adversaries were covered with confusion, and all the people were overjoyed at all the wonders he worked.

It is far easier to point out the sins of others, to judge and condemn them. But have we first examined our own lives first? Are we ourselves sinful? Or have we rationalised and then justified all that we had done wrong? Unless we come clean and are truly sorry for our sins, we will never grow in faith, love and charity. We will never grow in our relationship with our heavenly Father. We deprive ourselves of our heavenly inheritance.

Sweet Jesus help me overcome my prideful ways. I come before You with a repentant heart, have mercy on me Lord. Let me excel in the vocation our heavenly Father has chosen for me. So that in union with my brethren, we as one body humbly work together to build His Kingdom now and forever. Amen

First reading
Ephesians 4:7-16

Gospel
Luke 13:1-9

Some people arrived and told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with that of their sacrifices. At this he said to them, ‘Do you suppose these Galileans who suffered like that were greater sinners than any other Galileans? They were not, I tell you. No; but unless you repent you will all perish as they did. Or those eighteen on whom the tower at Siloam fell and killed them? Do you suppose that they were more guilty than all the other people living in Jerusalem? They were not, I tell you. No; but unless you repent you will all perish as they did.’
He told this parable: ‘A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came looking for fruit on it but found none. He said to the man who looked after the vineyard, “Look here, for three years now I have been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and finding none. Cut it down: why should it be taking up the ground?” “Sir,” the man replied “leave it one more year and give me time to dig round it and manure it: it may bear fruit next year; if not, then you can cut it down.”’

We see the signs of our time, the many voices calling for change. Let us be more merciful, loving, kind and tolerant. Virtues indeed of living a Christian life. But we have to be wary and on our guard when a similar call for mercy, kindness and tolerance are for those who want to continue living out a sinful lifestyle and in sin. Yes we love the sinner but we must despise the sin! For it is not a matter of ‘live and let live’ but ‘live and let die.’ If we truly love them then we will want to save their souls.

Lord Jesus help us lead a life centred on You. Your call to Holiness is for all of us to be united as one in communion with You. And to do so is to constantly examine our conscience through the working of the Holy Spirit. In Your mercy let us always be reconciled to You. Be our voice of truth and reason as we go forth into the world to share the message of God our Father’s love in the Gospels. Amen

First reading
Ephesians 4:1-6

Gospel
Luke 12:54-59

Jesus said to the crowds, ‘When you see a cloud looming up in the west you say at once that rain is coming, and so it does. And when the wind is from the south you say it will be hot, and it is. Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the face of the earth and the sky. How is it you do not know how to interpret these times?
‘Why not judge for yourselves what is right? For example: when you go to court with your opponent, try to settle with him on the way, or he may drag you before the judge and the judge hand you over to the bailiff and the bailiff have you thrown into prison. I tell you, you will not get out till you have paid the very last penny.’

Lord Jesus purify my heart, my thoughts and words; my soul. And that of my family dear to me. However if they refuse You and Your all encompassing love. Let me be first an instrument of Your faith, love and mercy to bring them back to You. And if by their own stubborn waywardness still refuse to listen Your call to conversion. Give me the strength to leave them behind so as to move forward in loving and serving You.

Lord Jesus, let me dive into the the depths of Your love. So that my whole life will be planted with Your love and built on Your love. And in union with You, I may bring others to the same faith and encounter of Your love. Amen

First reading
Ephesians 3:14-21

Gospel
Luke 12:49-53

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘I have come to bring fire to the earth, and how I wish it were blazing already! There is a baptism I must still receive, and how great is my distress till it is over!
‘Do you suppose that I am here to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. For from now on a household of five will be divided: three against two and two against three; the father divided against the son, son against father, mother against daughter, daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law, daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.’

Everyday Lord I struggle to remain faithful and true to Your Word. There are so many distractions and just as many temptations. I am somewhat impatient and easily fall sometimes in allowing anger to take control. Still I will embrace the struggle to persevere in holiness for my love of You.

I am not fearful of punishment for sinning against You so much as I am fearful of hurting and letting You down.

Today Lord I am reminded of my responsibility and by Your example that true love is born of sacrifice. A love that wills the good for and in others. Let me also share with all whom I meet, the greatest love story ever to be told. The love story of God our Father’s love for us His children. His great love for us manifested through His loving Son, our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ.

I want to stand ready to greet You, and hear You say to me “Come my good and faithful servant. Come share in your Master’s joy.” Amen

First reading
Ephesians 3:2-12

Gospel
Luke 12:39-48

Jesus said to his disciples:
‘You may be quite sure of this, that if the householder had known at what hour the burglar would come, he would not have let anyone break through the wall of his house. You too must stand ready, because the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.’
Peter said, ‘Lord, do you mean this parable for us, or for everyone?’ The Lord replied, ‘What sort of steward, then, is faithful and wise enough for the master to place him over his household to give them their allowance of food at the proper time? Happy that servant if his master’s arrival finds him at this employment. I tell you truly, he will place him over everything he owns. But as for the servant who says to himself, “My master is taking his time coming,” and sets about beating the menservants and the maids, and eating and drinking and getting drunk, his master will come on a day he does not expect and at an hour he does not know. The master will cut him off and send him to the same fate as the unfaithful.
The servant who knows what his master wants, but has not even started to carry out those wishes, will receive very many strokes of the lash. The one who did not know, but deserves to be beaten for what he has done, will receive fewer strokes. When a man has had a great deal given him, a great deal will be demanded of him; when a man has had a great deal given him on trust, even more will be expected of him.’

Today O Lord my God, while I rejoice at being Your child, I am saddened that are many who still do not know You. They live in darkness and many are lost; some are still searching while others have abandoned hope altogether. I am ashamed that I have done so little to bring Your message of love to them. I’ve let my fear of rejection and weakness overshadow me.

Jesus I place all my faith and trust in You. Guide me and lead me to do Your Will. Let Your light shine through me so that I may lead Your flock home to You. I stand ready and eager to serve You. May You never find me wanting or asleep. All my strength comes from You. Amen

First reading
Ephesians 2:12-22

Gospel
Luke 12:36-38

Jesus said to his disciples:
‘See that you are dressed for action and have your lamps lit. Be like men waiting for their master to return from the wedding feast, ready to open the door as soon as he comes and knocks. Happy those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes. I tell you solemnly, he will put on an apron, sit them down at table and wait on them. It may be in the second watch he comes, or in the third, but happy those servants if he finds them ready.’

Unless one is born in hardship and strive, it is far more difficult to share or to be content with enough. We want more than we need and frequently with the accompanying excuse of saving it for a rainy day. It never seems enough, money, food, clothing, shoes, bags, gadgets, cars, even houses. Often with greed there is selfishness and a whole lot of self centredness. What then becomes of us?

God our Father made us for Himself, we are created for more to be more in His heavenly Kingdom. Where material wealth has no currency. And while we brought sin into the world, which robbed us of our heavenly inheritance, Christ our Lord came to liberate and save us. So that through Him our heavenly inheritance is restored. Let us work tirelessly for treasures not of this world, for which can neither be bought nor earned. Our Father bestows them on us freely in His love. Amen

First reading
Ephesians 2:1-10

Gospel
Luke 12:13-21

A man in the crowd said to Jesus, ‘Master, tell my brother to give me a share of our inheritance.’ ‘My friend,’ he replied, ‘who appointed me your judge, or the arbitrator of your claims?’ Then he said to them, ‘Watch, and be on your guard against avarice of any kind, for a man’s life is not made secure by what he owns, even when he has more than he needs.’
Then he told them a parable: ‘There was once a rich man who, having had a good harvest from his land, thought to himself, “What am I to do? I have not enough room to store my crops.” Then he said, “This is what I will do: I will pull down my barns and build bigger ones, and store all my grain and my goods in them, and I will say to my soul: My soul, you have plenty of good things laid by for many years to come; take things easy, eat, drink, have a good time.” But God said to him, “Fool! This very night the demand will be made for your soul; and this hoard of yours, whose will it be then?.” So it is when a man stores up treasure for himself in place of making himself rich in the sight of God.’

Lord have mercy on me for the many times You called on me to serve and I refused. Thinking only of my priorities, my way of life. For fear of hardship and rejection of others, I believed myself unworthy to share Your Word. I thank You for being patient with me and allowing me to return to You, welcoming me back with open arms. I stand ready now to serve You always.

Lord You chose us, men and women to share Your message of salvation to all. Entrusted us with Your Word so that we can be living testimonies of Your love by the way lead our lives and by songs we sing in praise of the many wonders You have worked in our sight. So that the seed of Your love may be planted in the hearts of many; even those who might not listen with attentive hearts initially. And Your healing touch may come upon them through us.

Lord Jesus, I’ve come to do Your Will, use me Lord. Amen

First reading
2 Timothy 4:10-17

Gospel
Luke 10:1-9

The Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them out ahead of him, in pairs, to all the towns and places he himself was to visit. He said to them, ‘The harvest is rich but the labourers are few, so ask the Lord of the harvest to send labourers to his harvest. Start off now, but remember, I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. Carry no purse, no haversack, no sandals. Salute no one on the road. Whatever house you go into, let your first words be, “Peace to this house!” And if a man of peace lives there, your peace will go and rest on him; if not, it will come back to you. Stay in the same house, taking what food and drink they have to offer, for the labourer deserves his wages; do not move from house to house. Whenever you go into a town where they make you welcome, eat what is set before you. Cure those in it who are sick, and say, “The kingdom of God is very near to you.”

We often live in fear of the uncertain for it is the nature of the world in which we live in. Who can we trust these days? Hordes of voices are calling out for change and seem to be heard, threatening to change truths on faith and morals of which we hold dear. Whispers and secrets are rampant under the guise of allowing the flow of unfettered discussions. How then can our faith not be shaken?

It will never be shaken if we have built it up on the foundation of our Lord Jesus Christ. The voice of God speaks to our hearts and His tender arms embraces us in our weakest moments. Let us remain steadfast in His love for nothing can separate us from Him. And if we die for the truth and love of Him, it is only the flesh that dies for we will surely be alive in and with Him; in His Kingdom. Amen

First reading
Ephesians 1:11-14

Gospel
Luke 12:1-7

The people had gathered in their thousands so that they were treading on one another. And Jesus began to speak, first of all to his disciples. ‘Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees – that is, their hypocrisy. Everything that is now covered will be uncovered, and everything now hidden will be made clear. For this reason, whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in hidden places will be proclaimed on the housetops.
‘To you my friends I say: Do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. I will tell you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has the power to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. Can you not buy five sparrows for two pennies? And yet not one is forgotten in God’s sight. Why, every hair on your head has been counted. There is no need to be afraid: you are worth more than hundreds of sparrows.’

Do I live for myself? Do I want to experience only all that is good and positive? Do I think it best to avoid people who are broken lest they infect me with their negativity? Do I only listen to preaching and teachings that is uplifting for my soul but shut my ears to those which admonish for correction? Do I criticise and kill the spirit of those trying to speak God’s truth or prevent others from listening? Have I helped sinners to be reconciled with God our loving Father or have I shunned them thinking they were not worthy or ready to hear the truth?

Lord Jesus have mercy on me, You who went through unimaginable sufferings for us. You who bore the cross on Your back for a sinner like me. While hanging and dying from the cross You sought forgiveness for us sinners. You who gave up Your life so that we may live. Lord have mercy on me.

By Your example Lord I want to be more compassionate and loving. Help me to overcome my weaknesses so that I may take up my cross and follow You. Amen

First reading
Ephesians 1:1-10

Gospel
Luke 11:47-54

Jesus said:
‘Alas for you who build the tombs of the prophets, the men your ancestors killed! In this way you both witness what your ancestors did and approve it; they did the killing, you do the building.
‘And that is why the Wisdom of God said, “I will send them prophets and apostles; some they will slaughter and persecute, so that this generation will have to answer for every prophet’s blood that has been shed since the foundation of the world, from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah, who was murdered between the altar and the sanctuary.” Yes, I tell you, this generation will have to answer for it all.
‘Alas for you lawyers who have taken away the key of knowledge! You have not gone in yourselves, and have prevented others going in who wanted to.’
When he left the house, the scribes and the Pharisees began a furious attack on him and tried to force answers from him on innumerable questions, setting traps to catch him out in something he might say.

Lord Your great love for me is not always warm and fuzzy. It sometimes calls for painful correction so that I may live according to Your Will for me which is ultimately the best in every way. Have patience with me for the many times I have be stubborn in shutting my ears to Your truth. Jesus You have come to set me free from every sin, of every form. Have mercy on me.

Your call to holiness is special in every way, it is a call to communion with You and with one another. To live a loving life filled with Your grace. Help me to abandon all that is not of You, so that I may take up my cross anyways and follow You. Amen

First reading
Ephesians 1:1-10

Gospel
Luke 11:47-54

Jesus said:
‘Alas for you who build the tombs of the prophets, the men your ancestors killed! In this way you both witness what your ancestors did and approve it; they did the killing, you do the building.
‘And that is why the Wisdom of God said, “I will send them prophets and apostles; some they will slaughter and persecute, so that this generation will have to answer for every prophet’s blood that has been shed since the foundation of the world, from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah, who was murdered between the altar and the sanctuary.” Yes, I tell you, this generation will have to answer for it all.
‘Alas for you lawyers who have taken away the key of knowledge! You have not gone in yourselves, and have prevented others going in who wanted to.’
When he left the house, the scribes and the Pharisees began a furious attack on him and tried to force answers from him on innumerable questions, setting traps to catch him out in something he might say.

How can I plead ignorance of sin? When time and again I experience the ugly fruits of it? It’s foul stench permeating the air, lingering on everything. Apart from the normal signs of rage, insatiable sexual desires, jealousy. There is selfishness, fear, anxiety, constant bickering, shouting, loathing of self and others.

One of the more dangerous sin whose fruits are subtly hidden even perfumed over, of which a few remains dormant till it rears it’s ugly head. Is none other than hypocrisy!

Sweet Jesus, You have washed me clean, I am white as snow! To live a life of Holiness filled with grace. Your great love and peace is upon me. With a grateful heart I want to share Your love with others so that they too can experience Your mercy. Be with me always! Amen

First reading
Galatians 5:18-25

Gospel
Luke 11:42-46

The Lord said to the Pharisees:
‘Alas for you Pharisees! You who pay your tithe of mint and rue and all sorts of garden herbs and overlook justice and the love of God! These you should have practised, without leaving the others undone. Alas for you Pharisees who like taking the seats of honour in the synagogues and being greeted obsequiously in the market squares! Alas for you, because you are like the unmarked tombs that men walk on without knowing it!
A lawyer then spoke up. ‘Master,’ he said ‘when you speak like this you insult us too.’
‘Alas for you lawyers also,’ he replied ‘because you load on men burdens that are unendurable, burdens that you yourselves do not move a finger to lift.’

Lord Jesus thank You loving me. Your love outpoured for me from Your dying on the cross. Your love which seeks to embrace me when I am weak. Your love which admonishes when there is need, so that I may walk straight on the path to Holiness.

Lord Jesus thank You for loving me. Teach and guide me in Your mercy. Let me reach out to others with Your same love and mercy. Let the power of my great faith in You be felt in my love for others. Amen

First reading
Galatians 5:1-6

Gospel
Luke 11:37-41

Jesus had just finished speaking when a Pharisee invited him to dine at his house. He went in and sat down at the table. The Pharisee saw this and was surprised that he had not first washed before the meal. But the Lord said to him, ‘Oh, you Pharisees! You clean the outside of cup and plate, while inside yourselves you are filled with extortion and wickedness. Fools! Did not he who made the outside make the inside too? Instead, give alms from what you have and then indeed everything will be clean for you.’

If I say I love You sweet Jesus and follow You, would I allow lust to rule my mind? Would I entertain thoughts of sinful temptations? Would I allow anything to separate myself from You?

You dear Jesus who love me so much that You have set me free; do I instead place the shackles of sin back on?

Jesus, Your dying on the cross is the only sign I we will need to remind me of Your great love for me. How by Your resurrection You have conquered death and freed me.

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God; have mercy on me a sinner. Amen

First reading
Galatians 4:22-24,26-27,31-5:1

Gospel
Luke 11:29-32

The crowds got even bigger and Jesus addressed them, ‘This is a wicked generation; it is asking for a sign The only sign it will be given is the sign of Jonah. For just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. On Judgement day the Queen of the South will rise up with the men of this generation and condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and there is something greater than Solomon here. On Judgement day the men of Nineveh will stand up with this generation and condemn it, because when Jonah preached they repented; and there is something greater than Jonah here.’

Why do we cling to our mortality and jealously guard our faith? Do we behave as we should as children of God our Father or some elite religious group? Why do we limit ourselves by thanking and praising God with ordinary human thoughts? That is to say we utter what we think our Lord wants to hear.

Let us praise our Lord rejoicing in the Spirit! Let our lives led in holiness be our living testimony to His glory. Let the Word of God be in our hearts and on our lips. And His love we have been given in abundance be shared with all whom we meet. And may almighty God our Father bless us all, in the name of the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit. Amen

First reading
Galatians 3:22-29

Gospel
Luke 11:27-28

As Jesus was speaking, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said, ‘Happy the womb that bore you and the breasts you sucked!’ But he replied, ‘Still happier those who hear the word of God and keep it!’

If we have made up our minds to believe only what we see with our eyes and again only what we can explain, without having faith then we are in fact blind to the wonders of God our Father. For it is through faith we are His children.

Our hearts are opened as we sing the glory of God when we witness His hand in our lives. In the miracle of birth, in the beauty and order of nature, in the sun and the moon, in the liberation of the oppressed, in the peace and joy of the reconciled, in the love we have for one another. Impossible it is to list them all for our Father’s love cannot be contained.

No evil can befall us for we are children of the almighty God our Father. And so no evil do we ever need fear for we are under our Lord’s protection. Our Lord dwells in us as we dwell in Him.

We are doomed only by our choice of evil over good. Of choosing to sin over walking in the light.

Lord Jesus You are my Lord and King, rule in my heart always. Amen

First reading
Galatians 3:7-14

Gospel
Luke 11:15-26

When Jesus had cast out a devil, some of the people said, ‘It is through Beelzebul, the prince of devils, that he casts out devils.’ Others asked him, as a test, for a sign from heaven; but, knowing what they were thinking, he said to them, ‘Every kingdom divided against itself is heading for ruin, and a household divided against itself collapses. So too with Satan: if he is divided against himself, how can his kingdom stand? – Since you assert that it is through Beelzebul that I cast out devils. Now if it is through Beelzebul that I cast out devils, through whom do your own experts cast them out? Let them be your judges then. But if it is through the finger of God that I cast out devils, then know that the kingdom of God has overtaken you. So long as a strong man fully armed guards his own palace, his goods are undisturbed; but when someone stronger than he is attacks and defeats him, the stronger man takes away all the weapons he relied on and shares out his spoil.
‘He who is not with me is against me; and he who does not gather with me scatters.
‘When an unclean spirit goes out of a man it wanders through waterless country looking for a place to rest, and not finding one it says, “I will go back to the home I came from.” But on arrival, finding it swept and tidied, it then goes off and brings seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and set up house there, so that the man ends up by being worse than he was before.’

How much more love can God show us than for Him to send the Holy Spirit after His only begotten Son, suffered, died, rose from the dead and ascended into heaven to prepare room for us?

The Counsellor sent to guide us into a life of holiness, Who comes bearing gifts so that we can use them to lead one another into the light and to love one another the way our heavenly Father loves us.

Do we grieve Him by our unbelief our indifference,  our stubbornness?

Holy Spirit open our hearts and minds to the Will of our Father in heaven always. Amen

First reading
Galatians 3:1-5

Gospel
Luke 11:5-13

Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Suppose one of you has a friend and goes to him in the middle of the night to say, “My friend, lend me three loaves, because a friend of mine on his travels has just arrived at my house and I have nothing to offer him”; and the man answers from inside the house, “Do not bother me. The door is bolted now, and my children and I are in bed; I cannot get up to give it you.” I tell you, if the man does not get up and give it him for friendship’s sake, persistence will be enough to make him get up and give his friend all he wants.
  ‘So I say to you: Ask, and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For the one who asks always receives; the one who searches always finds; the one who knocks will always have the door opened to him. What father among you would hand his son a stone when he asked for bread? Or hand him a snake instead of a fish? Or hand him a scorpion if he asked for an egg? If you then, who are evil, know how to give your children what is good, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!’

Lord have mercy on me for I am weak. Instead of seeking Your strength and counsel I chose to accept my weakness and submit. When I should be standing firm in the love and zeal for Your way. I chose instead to walk the most travelled path, better the approval of my peers. When I should have stood up against injustice or for Your righteousness, I chose to sit and remain silent. Lord have mercy on me.

You O Lord are worthy to be praised! Great is Your tender love for us, that You forgive us in an instant, the second we set out hearts on You. And You our loving Lord, remember not our many sins. How can we not follow Your Will for us to do likewise for our brethren who have wronged us?

Jesus be my guide, let me be holy as You are holy. Let my very being bring glory to my heavenly Father. Amen

First reading
Galatians 2:1-2,7-14

Gospel
Luke 11:1-4

Once Jesus was in a certain place praying, and when he had finished, one of his disciples said, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.’ He said to them, ‘Say this when you pray:
“Father, may your name be held holy,
your kingdom come;
give us each day our daily bread,
and forgive us our sins,
for we ourselves forgive each one who is in debt to us.
And do not put us to the test.”’

In each Hail Mary we participate in the awe-filled wonder over Jesus while reflecting on the mysteries of salvation in each decade.
me and of history.

“Blessed Rosary of Mary, sweet chain linking us to God”

First reading Acts 1:12-14

Gospel Luke 1:26-38

Mark 2:3. When some people came bringing a paralytic carried by four men.

What paralyses us in our lives? What prevents from growing in His love and doing so as a community? Pride? Lust? Gluttony? Ambition? Money? family? What holds us back? What causes our inaction? Do we hide behind our excuses? We may have started with giving one legitimate one but after two or three something is amiss is it not?

Can one person’s desire and love to bring a paralytic to Jesus for healing be enough? Unless he or she is gifted with uncanny strength, it would be far better to get help, so that together as a community we can face the challenges that may come when carrying the paralytic.

How then can we come together as a community? How do we build on the relationship we have through Christ? How do we become brethren? Do we not need to spend time together? Do we not need to have fellowship? Do we not need to share our strengths and weaknesses? Do we not need to love and worship God together? How can we do all these things if we are absent in body and mind?

Do we want and expect our Leaders to speak to us at our level of spirituality or do we want our leaders to lead us up to their level of spirituality? Do we then support them in their efforts?

If I declare my love for You O Lord, how can I not discern first Your Will for me? Do I let blind zeal cast a shadow on my works? Do I constantly seek spiritual direction from my elders first or do I move in faith and allow the Holy Spirit to lead me? Do I make time to take a step back and marvel at the beauty of God’s creations? Do I spend time to honour and worship Him in prayer?

I thank You sweet Jesus for the gift of Yourself. In my service of You and my brethren let me never forget to remain focused on You. I will make time to be Your presence before the Blessed Sacrament so that I may constantly deepen my relationship with You. I know You will surely minister to me and pour out Your love upon me. With renewed strength and vigour; I will move onward to love and serve You once again. Amen

First reading
Galatians 1:13-24

Gospel
Luke 10:38-42

Jesus came to a village, and a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. She had a sister called Mary, who sat down at the Lord’s feet and listened to him speaking. Now Martha who was distracted with all the serving said, ‘Lord, do you not care that my sister is leaving me to do the serving all by myself? Please tell her to help me.’ But the Lord answered: ‘Martha, Martha,’ he said ‘you worry and fret about so many things, and yet few are needed, indeed only one. It is Mary who has chosen the better part; it is not to be taken from her.’

There is much Christian literature available and books on spirituality and reflection. And I’ve often wondered why do some people need to look outside the Catholic Church? We have a vast number of scholars, doctors, Saints, the writings of the early church fathers and yet some find it necessary to read up on the latest trend on spirituality, interpretations, reflections or some ‘scholarly’ thesis from protestant scholars or preachers? Why the need to dilute what we have richly in abundance?

Then apart from my learning, have I put my faith into practise? Is my declaration of love for my God only lip service? Do I explain or rationalise away the need to help my brethren? Those who call out to me and those whose voices cannot be heard?

O Lord my God, Your love for me is such that it fills my heart with abundance so that I may love and care for Your children my brethren. Help me clear any and all obstacles that prevent me from receiving Your love and let me never be blind to those in need. Amen

First reading
Galatians 1:6-12

Gospel
Luke 10:25-37

There was a lawyer who, to disconcert Jesus, stood up and said to him, ‘Master, what must I do to inherit eternal life?’ He said to him, ‘What is written in the Law? What do you read there?’ He replied, ‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbour as yourself.’ ‘You have answered right,’ said Jesus ‘do this and life is yours.’

But the man was anxious to justify himself and said to Jesus, ‘And who is my neighbour?’ Jesus replied, ‘A man was once on his way down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell into the hands of brigands; they took all he had, beat him and then made off, leaving him half dead. Now a priest happened to be travelling down the same road, but when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. In the same way a Levite who came to the place saw him, and passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan traveller who came upon him was moved with compassion when he saw him. He went up and bandaged his wounds, pouring oil and wine on them. He then lifted him on to his own mount, carried him to the inn and looked after him. Next day, he took out two denarii and handed them to the innkeeper. “Look after him,” he said “and on my way back I will make good any extra expense you have.” Which of these three, do you think, proved himself a neighbour to the man who fell into the brigands‘ hands?’ ‘The one who took pity on him’ he replied. Jesus said to him, ‘Go, and do the same yourself.’

For all the times I was proud and conceited. For all the times I spoke the truth without charity of heart. For all the times I sought comfort in the flesh. For all the times I turned a blind eye to the sick and suffering. For my lack of love for others. Have mercy my Lord, my God!

Merciful and ever loving Lord, You have looked kindly on Your servant. In Your love You have transformed me and poured out Your love upon me. With the gifts You have given me, I bear witness to the fruits of my labour for You.

O Heavenly Father, if You see fit to reward Your servant, let it be Your loving embrace for me and my family into Your Kingdom. Amen

First reading
Job 42:1-3,5-6,12-17

Gospel
Luke 10:17-24

The seventy-two came back rejoicing. ‘Lord,’ they said ‘even the devils submit to us when we use your name.’ He said to them, ‘I watched Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Yes, I have given you power to tread underfoot serpents and scorpions and the whole strength of the enemy; nothing shall ever hurt you. Yet do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you; rejoice rather that your names are written in heaven.’

It was then that, filled with joy by the Holy Spirit, he said, ‘I bless you, Father, Lord of heaven and of earth, for hiding these things from the learned and the clever and revealing them to mere children. Yes, Father, for that is what it pleased you to do. Everything has been entrusted to me by my Father; and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.’

Then turning to his disciples he spoke to them in private, ‘Happy the eyes that see what you see, for I tell you that many prophets and kings wanted to see what you see, and never saw it; to hear what you hear, and never heard it.’

Forgive me Lord for my arrogance. I know nothing and can do nothing to extend my life or change the tides and weather. Yet I sometimes behave badly as though everything revolves around me. I declare myself Lord of everything and everyone.

So why Lord do You love me still? Why do You seek me out to call me to repentance? Why would you welcome me back into Your fold? Especially after all I have done and all I have failed to do?

Because You O Lord my God are the source of all that is good. All love and goodness comes from You. All peace and joy comes from You. Your mercy are on those who turn to You.

So today Lord I pray for Your mercy on me and for the whole world. Amen

First reading
Job 38:1,12-21,40:3-5

Gospel
Luke 10:13-16

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Alas for you, Chorazin! Alas for you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. And still, it will not go as hard with Tyre and Sidon at the Judgement as with you. And as for you, Capernaum, did you want to be exalted high as heaven? You shall be thrown down to hell.
  ‘Anyone who listens to you listens to me; anyone who rejects you rejects me, and those who reject me reject the one who sent me.’

Though I have never laid eyes on him and at one point never realised he existed, he was always there to protect me. I honour and respect my guardian angel for even though he was placed in charge of me by my heavenly Father; he takes it on with great love for me.

I am a child of God made for Himself and in His image. Never should I forget that I am Not an only child. And that I must love all my sisters and brothers who are equally His children created in His image. He loves us all and has sent His angels to protect us.

Jesus my Lord, help me always to remain a true child of God. Amen

First reading
Exodus 23:20-23

First reading (Ordinary Time)
Job 19:21-27

Gospel
Matthew 18:1-5,10

The disciples came to Jesus and said, ‘Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’ So he called a little child to him and set the child in front of them. Then he said, ‘I tell you solemnly, unless you change and become like little children you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. And so, the one who makes himself as little as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
‘Anyone who welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. See that you never despise any of these little ones, for I tell you that their angels in heaven are continually in the presence of my Father in heaven.’

The Holy Guardian Angels

Memorial

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones; for I tell you that in heaven their angels always behold the face of my Father who is in heaven,” (Mt 18:10).[1]

Today is the memorial of the Holy Guardian Angels. In Sacred Scripture, we see angels coming alongside mankind, carrying out God’s messages and supporting people in their affairs. The Catechism of the Catholic Church says, “Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and Shepard leading him to life.” Holy Guardian Angels reflect to believers an invisible realm of the Kingdom of God, one that is actively participating in the history of salvation