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People often are mistaken that the washing of feet is for the benefit of the one whose feet are being washed. It is the other way round and the key to this knowledge where it’s depth runs deep is humility. Without which the act amounts to nought.

Have you ever been in a desperate situation where you needed help and either you could not find anyone willing to help or no one seemed to care! If you have not experienced such a situation, well be prepared because it can happen to anybody and for some it is only a matter of time, for now use your imagination….

A financial crisis has hit hard and you find yourself in debt, sick and alone you have run out of food. Who can you turn to for help? Your friends? Your family? You find that most if not all have abandoned you, and soon you fall into despair. Just as you are about to give up totally, someone you recognise from church whom you know lives a mediocre lifestyle; who has just enough for himself and his family takes you in, clothes and feed you with what little he has got. He even buys you medicine and nurses you back to health. Why? you ask yourself? Why would he help me? Who am I to him? I never took the time to know him personally? Why????

Because He is a man of God, He is man of faith! He seeks to God’s Will. He seeks NOT the rewards of the world but seeks out the Lord’s face. Whom He recognises in the face of His brethren especially in the least of his brethren. He knows that all the wealth in the world cannot ever measure up to the love of God which He bestows on His children. And all of us by our very baptism are His children and have been given the graces needed to help and love one another.

Let us be the men and women our Heavenly Father wants us to be, let us always seek out our Lord’s face as we go about doing His Will for us and in the service of our brethren. Amen

FIRST READING
Leviticus 19:1–2, 11–18

GOSPEL
Matthew 25:31–46

Jesus said to his disciples:
“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit upon his glorious throne, and all the nations will be assembled before him. And he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the king will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.’ Then the righteous will answer him and say, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?’ And the king will say to them in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’ Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you accursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, a stranger and you gave me no welcome, naked and you gave me no clothing, ill and in prison, and you did not care for me.’ Then they will answer and say, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison, and not minister to your needs?’ He will answer them, ‘Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.’ And these will go off to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”

All too often hurts, pains, arguments, anger even rage are a result of a ill disciplined and malicious tongue. Teach me to speak Lord with a gentle one, allow me to bring Your truth and Your love to all. That I may feed the hungry with spiritual food as well as physical nourishment. Lord guide me in my endeavours.

People close to me, family and friends are always welcome in my home. Let me now invite those who have angered or hurt me, who have sinned against me ; first into the home of my heart. Dine with us Lord, as we bask in Your love, mercy and healing. Then when the time is right, give me the courage and strength to invite them into my home. Lord guide me in my endeavours. Amen

FIRST READING
Isaiah 58:9b–14

GOSPEL
Luke 5:27–32

Jesus saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the customs post. He said to him, “Follow me.” And leaving everything behind, he got up and followed him. Then Levi gave a great banquet for him in his house, and a large crowd of tax collectors and others were at table with them. The Pharisees and their scribes complained to his disciples, saying, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” Jesus said to them in reply, “Those who are healthy do not need a physician, but the sick do. I have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners.”

When we have too many worldly desires, too many cares and concerns; where will we have room in our hearts for God? So when we decide to observe a fast let it truly be about emptying ourselves so that God can fill our hearts. Let it be about drawing closer to Him. Let it be about contrition for our sins.

Jesus my Lord, I adore thee with all my heart. Whatever sacrifices I do to day, I offer it up for the reparation of my sins and that of my family. And if you deem them worthy enough let it for the sins of the world. In Your most precious name. Amen

First Reading
Isaiah 58:1-9a

Gospel
Matthew 9:14-15

The disciples of John approached Jesus and said, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast much, but your disciples do not fast?” Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.”

Just like flowers and plants need water and sunlight to grow and thrive otherwise they will soon wither and die; So it is with us needing God in our lives. His commandments and His Will for us is like the water and sunlight in which we grow and thrive. Yet He loves us so much that He allows us to choose to accept them or not to accept.

By turning our backs on His commandments and His Will for us, we choose to separate ourselves from Him and so will face the natural consequences of our actions which ultimately leads to our permanent death.

Christ Jesus our Lord offers us redemption, for by His death and resurrection He has conquered death for us. He comes to seek out the sheep that had fallen astray and lead them home. To liberate us from the chains of sin and until such time our death becomes permanent we still have hope; because He gives us that hope that we may have a change of heart. That we will choose to reject sin and turn back to Him. So let us take up our cross daily and follow Him by being faithful to the Gospels. Amen

FIRST READING
Deuteronomy 30:15–20

GOSPEL
Luke 9:22–25

Jesus said to his disciples:
“The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”

Then he said to all,
“If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world yet lose or forfeit himself?”

Sin and the ways of the world separate us from God. All that is said and done ‘for God’ or ‘in God’s’ name while holding on to worldly attachments and sin is worth nothing, meaningless and useless.

Our merciful and loving Father is calling out to us, “Come return to me with all your heart and all will be forgiven.” “Do not cower, do not hide anything, just come as you are into my loving embrace.””Live your lives fully in peace, joy and love as intended for you from the very beginning.”

Let us respond to Him with all our heart and declare,” Yes Father, I’ve come to do Your Will.” “I strive to turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospels.” Through Christ our Lord. Amen

FIRST READING
Joel 2:12–18

GOSPEL
Matthew 6:1–6, 16–18

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father. When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to win the praise of others. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, so that your almsgiving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.

“When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.

“When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites. They neglect their appearance, so that they may appear to others to be fasting. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you may not appear to be fasting, except to your Father who is hidden. And your Father who sees what is hidden will repay you.”

Praise and glory be to God for His Wisdom and great love for us!

Thanks and praise be to God for His Saints now in heaven who without yet encountering Christ, suffered with most laying down their lives to Herald His coming and to proclaim God’s Word.

Thanks and praise be to God for His Saints, who having encountered Jesus sought to model their lives after Him. They made Him known to all who would listen and see either by word or deed. They suffered and died for the Glory of His name. They are truly an inspiration for us to do likewise.

And like St Peter we hope to say to You our dear Saviour “We have given up everything and followed you.” Grant us the courage, strength and the Graces we need to do so. We humbly implore in Your most precious name. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Peter 1:10–16

Gospel Mark 10:28-31

Peter began to say to Jesus,
“We have given up everything and followed you.”
Jesus said, “Amen, I say to you,
there is no one who has given up house or brothers or sisters
or mother or father or children or lands
for my sake and for the sake of the Gospel
who will not receive a hundred times more now in this present age:
houses and brothers and sisters
and mothers and children and lands,
with persecutions, and eternal life in the age to come.
But many that are first will be last, and the last will be first.”

As we draw closer to Lent, St Peter reminds us of the great love of our heavenly Father who gave us His only Son to redeem us from our sins. Jesus gives us the strength and grace to remain faithful, and bearing with the trials and suffering that comes our way; we glorify our Lord and God!

Jesus wants us to share in the fullness of life with Him and so teaches us that just following the commandments is not good enough. We need to let go of the attachments of this World and all it has to offer. We have the promise that God our Father knows what we need and will provide for us; we need only strive for the kingdom of God and His righteousness. (Matt 6:33).

Let us put all our faith and trust in God who loves us and lead our lives worthy of His Kingdom. Amen

Reading 1 Peter 1:3-9

Gospel Mark 10:17-27

As Jesus was setting out on a journey, a man ran up,
knelt down before him, and asked him,
“Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
Jesus answered him, “Why do you call me good?
No one is good but God alone.
You know the commandments: You shall not kill;
you shall not commit adultery;
you shall not steal;
you shall not bear false witness;
you shall not defraud;
honor your father and your mother.”
He replied and said to him,
“Teacher, all of these I have observed from my youth.”
Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said to him,
“You are lacking in one thing.
Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor
and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.”
At that statement, his face fell,
and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.

Jesus looked around and said to his disciples,
“How hard it is for those who have wealth
to enter the Kingdom of God!”
The disciples were amazed at his words.
So Jesus again said to them in reply,
“Children, how hard it is to enter the Kingdom of God!
It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle
than for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of God.”
They were exceedingly astonished and said among themselves,
“Then who can be saved?”
Jesus looked at them and said,
“For men it is impossible, but not for God.
All things are possible for God.”

O how powerful is the prayer, that of a righteous person. That sings praise to God, that brings about healing, comfort, and the eventual liberation from sin through the Church.

But who or what is a righteous person? Is it not one who loves God above all? Who loves neighbour as they would themselves regardless of race, language or religion? Who would persevere to bring back those who have gone astray? Who brings the light and the Word to everyone? Who lovingly welcomes the children of God? Let us be that person for all, through Jesus Christ our Lord, we pray… Amen

FIRST READING
James 5:13-20

GOSPEL
MARK 10:13-16

People were bringing children to Jesus that he might touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this he became indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the Kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.” Then he embraced the children and blessed them, placing his hands on them.

When we think ourselves wiser, more industrious, even holier our downfall begins. By comparing and judging we render ourselves unworthy to serve our Lord and we fall from His Graces and peace. Let us instead serve Him and our brethren with integrity and loving humility. One body in Christ…

Marriage is sacred because it is a love union of one man and one woman blessed and sanctified by God. According to His Will, together in perfect union (two become one body) with Him become procreators to bring forth life. In love they lead one another together with their children closer to God and His kingdom. How can we not cherish this sacrament of love?

Let us lead faithful lives in perfect communion with our one triune God. Amen

First Reading
James  5:9-12

Gospel
Mk 10:1-12

Jesus came into the district of Judea and across the Jordan. Again crowds gathered around him and, as was his custom, he again taught them. The Pharisees approached him and asked, “Is it lawful for a husband to divorce his wife?” They were testing him. He said to them in reply, “What did Moses command you?” They replied, “Moses permitted a husband to write a bill of divorce and dismiss her.” But Jesus told them, “Because of the hardness of your hearts he wrote you this commandment. But from the beginning of creation, God made them male and female. For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. So they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, no human being must separate.” In the house the disciples again questioned Jesus about this. He said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her; and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”

It is a truth and a fact that we are all going to die. A certainty beyond our control. Some sooner then later yet with most not knowing the circumstance. However what we do or how we live our lives will determine our choice of eternal life or death. A life with God or a permanent separation from Him.

Most if not all adults upon deep introspection and reflection have lived both self giving, loving as well as selfish, self centred lives at one time or another. But do we recollect the fond memories of the peace, love and joy the former brought us even though it was harder? Can we even recall if the latter brought us any happiness and if it did was it not fleeting?

Let us lead our lives worthy of being called the children of God, created in His image and likeness. To lead one another closer to Him by our love and care. To guard ourselves against sin and to be faithful to God’s Word. Amen

FIRST READING
James 5:1–6

GOSPEL
Mark 9:41–50

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ, amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward.

“Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were put around his neck and he were thrown into the sea. If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed than with two hands to go into Gehenna, into the unquenchable fire. And if your foot causes you to sin, cut if off. It is better for you to enter into life crippled than with two feet to be thrown into Gehenna. And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. Better for you to enter into the Kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into Gehenna, where their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.

“Everyone will be salted with fire. Salt is good, but if salt becomes insipid, with what will you restore its flavor? Keep salt in yourselves and you will have peace with one another.”

“All in due time…” , “when the time is right..” “When I retire.. “” After I’ve made my first million..” Only then will we have time to do the Will of God? What if tonight we draw our last breath?

Rather let us live in God’s time, His Will be done. What then could be of worry to us? Jesus is the way, the truth and the life.

So wonderful and powerful is the name of our Lord that whosoever believes in Him with all their heart and does His Will can do mighty deeds in His name.

Let all who love and serve our Lord Jesus Christ, who love and serve our brethren; stand united as we wear the name engraved in our hearts, Christian! A disciple of Jesus. Amen

FIRST READING
James 4:13–17

GOSPEL
Mark 9:38–40

John said to Jesus,
“Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name, and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow us.” Jesus replied, “Do not prevent him. There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name who can at the same time speak ill of me. For whoever is not against us is for us.”

Living in the world it is easy to see how much self centredness, selfishness exist. People want what they want and are often not patient about it. If things don’t go as planned or if they don’t get what they want, they are sometimes even willing to kill for it. They want not to lead but rather to dominate. They have a primal need to display their prowess and it is important that others bow down before them. They live for themselves yet do they still question, “Where is God?”

Why will we ever have a need to attend leadership courses? When we can learn from the best that ever lived, that ever is and will ever be; our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. If only we would open our hearts to listen!

Are we truly children of God? Do we spend time gazing into our heavenly Father’s eyes in prayer and contemplation? Do we seek His Counsel in all aspects of our life? Are our hearts filled with joy in unity with all of His children?

Let us with one voice declare, “I am a child of God together with my brethren. I seek to lead all His children home to Him.” Amen

FIRST READING
James 4:1–10

GOSPEL
Mark 9:30–37

Jesus and his disciples left from there and began a journey through Galilee, but he did not wish anyone to know about it. He was teaching his disciples and telling them, “The Son of Man is to be handed over to men and they will kill him, and three days after his death the Son of Man will rise.” But they did not understand the saying, and they were afraid to question him.

They came to Capernaum and, once inside the house, he began to ask them, “What were you arguing about on the way?” But they remained silent. For they had been discussing among themselves on the way who was the greatest. Then he sat down, called the Twelve, and said to them, “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” Taking a child, he placed it in their midst, and putting his arms around it, he said to them, “Whoever receives one child such as this in my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but the One who sent me.”

Pride, self importance, self ambitions and the wisdom of the world are some of the tools of the evil one. We are robbed of our peace when we succumb to them. Even amidst an injustice done against us we should seek the Lord’s wisdom so as not to allow evil to prevail over us. The Lord’s peace is upon us regardless the outcome.

Let us never put our Lord to the test but in proper reverance and love for Him seek to grow in faith. Such faith that can move mountains for all things are possible with our Lord. And as we grow in faith let us constantly empty ourselves of all that is worldly and in prayer come before Jesus, so that He can fill us with His grace. He hears, heals and answers our prayers. Amen

FIRST READING
James 3:13–18

GOSPEL
Mark 9:14–29

As Jesus came down from the mountain with Peter, James, John and approached the other disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and scribes arguing with them. Immediately on seeing him, the whole crowd was utterly amazed. They ran up to him and greeted him. He asked them, “What are you arguing about with them?” Someone from the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I have brought to you my son possessed by a mute spirit. Wherever it seizes him, it throws him down; he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive it out, but they were unable to do so.” He said to them in reply, “O faithless generation, how long will I be with you? How long will I endure you? Bring him to me.” They brought the boy to him. And when he saw him, the spirit immediately threw the boy into convulsions. As he fell to the ground, he began to roll around and foam at the mouth. Then he questioned his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” He replied, “Since childhood. It has often thrown him into fire and into water to kill him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” Jesus said to him, “‘If you can!’ Everything is possible to one who has faith.” Then the boy’s father cried out, “I do believe, help my unbelief!” Jesus, on seeing a crowd rapidly gathering, rebuked the unclean spirit and said to it, “Mute and deaf spirit, I command you: come out of him and never enter him again!” Shouting and throwing the boy into convulsions, it came out. He became like a corpse, which caused many to say, “He is dead!” But Jesus took him by the hand, raised him, and he stood up. When he entered the house, his disciples asked him in private, “Why could we not drive the spirit out?” He said to them, “This kind can only come out through prayer.”

Oh how much hurt and pain we cause by our words! Oh how sharp our tongues that we have caused the death of the spirit in some! We can choose instead to remain with and in our Lord Jesus Christ by being slow to speak, to reflect on Him and His Word and to speak lovingly through His grace.

Let us go often before our Lord Jesus to be transformed by Him to be made pure; so that we can go down the mountain to be His light for all. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Amen

Let us also keep our Holy Father Pope Francis in our prayers…..

(Feast Of The Chair Of St Peter)

FIRST READING
James 3:1–10

GOSPEL
Mark 9:2–13

Jesus took Peter, James, and John and led them up a high mountain apart by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no fuller on earth could bleach them. Then Elijah appeared to them along with Moses, and they were conversing with Jesus. Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here! Let us make three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” He hardly knew what to say, they were so terrified. Then a cloud came, casting a shadow over them; then from the cloud came a voice, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.” Suddenly, looking around, the disciples no longer saw anyone but Jesus alone with them.

As they were coming down from the mountain, he charged them not to relate what they had seen to anyone, except when the Son of Man had risen from the dead. So they kept the matter to themselves, questioning what rising from the dead meant. Then they asked him, “Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” He told them, “Elijah will indeed come first and restore all things, yet how is it written regarding the Son of Man that he must suffer greatly and be treated with contempt? But I tell you that Elijah has come and they did to him whatever they pleased, as it is written of him.”

Are we armchair Christians? Do we pray and love from afar? Do we avoid all forms of conflict or resistance, even if practices are against our faith so as to keep the ‘peace’? Do we offer a few dollars for the poor, aged and sick but spend no time with them?

The World wants us to avoid the ‘heavy’ burden of the Cross so that we can run free and be free to do as we please. To experience all the World has to offer, lots of money, luxury, unbridled sex and other such ‘nectars’ of life! Soon the noose tightens and it’s too late…

The reality is that the weight of the World weighs us down while it is the Cross of Christ that liberates us. The burdens we carry and Yes there will be burdens will be easy for it is the yoke of Jesus upon us. Our loving Lord gives the strength, courage and means to carry on living a full and fruitful life. When we are weary He will give us rest. Let us then take up our cross with joy as we walk onwards to our heavenly inheritance. Amen

FIRST READING
James 2:14–24, 26

GOSPEL
Mark 8:34––9:1

Jesus summoned the crowd with his disciples and said to them, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and that of the Gospel will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? What could one give in exchange for his life? Whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this faithless and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”

He also said to them,
“Amen, I say to you,
there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see that the Kingdom of God has come in power.”

What good is my name if I do not the Will of my heavenly Father? What good is my name if I am not  known to be loving and kind? What good is my name if I am not patient or merciful? What good is my name of I do not bring hope or joy? What good is my name if I do not bring peace? What good is my name if not a single soul can see Christ in me?

Let me always walk with and in Christ as He walks in me. Amen

FIRST READING
James 2:1–9

GOSPEL
Mark 8:27–33

Jesus and his disciples set out for the villages of Caesarea Philippi. Along the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” They said in reply, “John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others one of the prophets.” And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said to him in reply, “You are the Christ.” Then he warned them not to tell anyone about him.

He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and rise after three days. He spoke this openly. Then Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. At this he turned around and, looking at his disciples, rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan. You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do.”

Persevere dear sisters and brothers, persevere in holiness amidst trials,suffering and temptations. Draw your strength and wisdom NOT from men but from our Lord.

Our sweet and loving Lord knows our limitations and our weaknesses. He desires that we grow in strength, faith and love. So He patiently and gently urges on, picks us up and dust us off when we fall. He opens our hearts and minds slowly so that we can not only see and feel but understand and embrace all that is from Him.

Let us strive to climb up the Holy mountain of our Lord and help one another along the way. Amen

FIRST READING
James 1:19–27

GOSPEL
Mark 8:22–26

When Jesus and his disciples arrived at Bethsaida, people brought to him a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. Putting spittle on his eyes he laid his hands on the man and asked,
“Do you see anything?”
Looking up the man replied, “I see people looking like trees and walking.” Then he laid hands on the man’s eyes a second time and he saw clearly; his sight was restored and he could see everything distinctly. Then he sent him home and said, “Do not even go into the village.”

Let us stand guard against temptations for the source of all of it comes from evil, the devil striving to separate us from all that is good, all that is love, God our loving Father.

Giving in to just a small temptation gives rise to bigger ones and soon our sins grow heavy and chokes the life out of us.

Let us instead choose Christ our Lord and remain steadfast in His love. All we will ever want or need comes from Him. He is the Living Water which flows abundantly for us. That we may bear first fruits pleasing to our heavenly Father as we are nourishment for our brethren. Praise be our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen

FIRST READING
James 1:12–18

GOSPEL
Mark 8:14–21

The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. Jesus enjoined them, “Watch out, guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” They concluded among themselves that it was because they had no bread. When he became aware of this he said to them, “Why do you conclude that it is because you have no bread? Do you not yet understand or comprehend? Are your hearts hardened? Do you have eyes and not see, ears and not hear? And do you not remember, when I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many wicker baskets full of fragments you picked up?” They answered him, “Twelve.” “When I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many full baskets of fragments did you pick up?” They answered him, “Seven.” He said to them, “Do you still not understand?”

For those of whom we love and respect, would we demand proof of their love for us? Would we ever think of doing so? Surely we will see it in their actions and words. Unless we make blind or are blinded by our egos and narcissism. Why then should we signs from our God?

I have witnessed the wonders and glory of God in my life. I have seen, though not as much with my eyes but with my heart; my faith! His Grace is upon those who seek Him with their hearts. His love is as perennial as the grass. O Holy Spirit guide me, teach me so that I may faithfully love and serve my Lord, my God. In Jesus name I pray. Amen

FIRST READING
James 1:1–11

GOSPEL
Mark 8:11–13

The Pharisees came forward and began to argue with Jesus, seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him. He sighed from the depth of his spirit and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Amen, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.” Then he left them, got into the boat again, and went off to the other shore

Do we even recognise let alone allow the ‘golden calves’ in our lives to take us away from God our loving Father? Some of which are addictions, such as to television, computer games, sports, alcohol, drugs, pornography and masterbation. Others such as work, unforgiveness, pride, laziness and greed for money just to name a few.

Should we not instead hunger and thirst for the Word of God? The living Word which truly nourishes and saves. Given freely and in abundance to all who seek, all who asks. Always available even for those who come late. Such is the love of our God! Glory be to the Father and the Son and to the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Kings 12:26–32; 13:33–34

GOSPEL
Mark 8:1–10

In those days when there again was a great crowd without anything to eat, Jesus summoned the disciples and said, “My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, because they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat. If I send them away hungry to their homes, they will collapse on the way, and some of them have come a great distance.” His disciples answered him, “Where can anyone get enough bread to satisfy them here in this deserted place?” Still he asked them, “How many loaves do you have?” They replied, “Seven.” He ordered the crowd to sit down on the ground. Then, taking the seven loaves he gave thanks, broke them, and gave them to his disciples to distribute, and they distributed them to the crowd. They also had a few fish. He said the blessing over them and ordered them distributed also. They ate and were satisfied. They picked up the fragments left over–seven baskets. There were about four thousand people.

He dismissed the crowd and got into the boat with his disciples and came to the region of Dalmanutha.

Our loving Father wants what is best for us, He loves and provides for us. What are we saying to Him when we worship ‘false Gods’? Things or persons other than the one true God? When we turn our backs on Him? Closed are our ears, eyes and hearts! See then how it is, a life separate from our Father.

Lord Jesus I come before You a sinner, cleanse and heal me. I desire only to love and serve my God. Let my eyes, ears and heart always be opened to Your Word and Your Will. Together with my brethren let me always proclaim, “You are the Lord my God, and I hear Your voice.” In Your most precious name Jesus. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Kings 11:29–32; 12:19

GOSPEL
Mark 7:31–37

Jesus left the district of Tyre and went by way of Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, into the district of the Decapolis. And people brought to him a deaf man who had a speech impediment and begged him to lay his hand on him. He took him off by himself away from the crowd. He put his finger into the man’s ears and, spitting, touched his tongue; then he looked up to heaven and groaned, and said to him, “Ephphatha!” (that is, “Be opened!”) And immediately the man’s ears were opened, his speech impediment was removed, and he spoke plainly. He ordered them not to tell anyone. But the more he ordered them not to, the more they proclaimed it. They were exceedingly astonished and they said, “He has done all things well. He makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.”

Does giving in to sin because of peer pressure or because of our deep love for someone make it OK? Does keeping silent while someone close to us leads a sinful life ok? Sin in all it’s forms ensures a separation from God! No matter how holy or obedient we once were to the Will of God, it blinds us to His wonders and His love. To the point we can vaguely even recall how good it was when God was once by our side.

Why do some think that sins of the fathers or mothers for that matter will not affect the next generation? Fathers and Mothers have the greatest influence in their children lives and so if they justify their sinful actions convincingly enough will it not rub off on some if not all of their children? Especially if they were at an impressionable age.

The loving, living word of God cannot penetrate hearts which are hard, cold and wild with sin. These belong to obstinate ears who will not listen, will not change for they have wilfully chosen sin over God. But for those who yearn to be healed, to be transformed, who greatly desires to do God’s Will and who humble themselves before Him; their prayers are answered.

Lord Jesus I so desire to have unwavering faith in You! To love and serve You all of my life. Help me to grow in love and faith and grant me the Grace and strength to persevere amidst adversity or persecution. Be my shepherd now and forevermore. Amen

1st Reading
1 Kings 11:4-13

GOSPEL
Mark 7:24–30

Jesus went to the district of Tyre. He entered a house and wanted no one to know about it, but he could not escape notice. Soon a woman whose daughter had an unclean spirit heard about him. She came and fell at his feet. The woman was a Greek, a Syrophoenician by birth, and she begged him to drive the demon out of her daughter. He said to her, “Let the children be fed first. For it is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs.” She replied and said to him, “Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s scraps.” Then he said to her, “For saying this, you may go. The demon has gone out of your daughter.” When the woman went home, she found the child lying in bed and the demon gone.

“The devil made me do it!” “I was overcome by evil spirits.” “I am only human, what do you expect?” Have we not used these lines or at least had thoughts which were similar?

There is No bad pill we swallow that makes us bad! If we chance upon an erotic picture say on the internet and instead of closing it and moving on, we choose to stare, let our imagination run amok and then look for more erotica…can we then remain blameless? Or when something doesn’t go as we planned do we accept the challenges, react calmly and look into correcting or even improving on it or do we throw tantrums, get emotionally charged and start looking to blame someone? How then are we going to live out our Christian values? How do we remain focussed on God and His Will for us?

O Lord my God You give us Your Living Word and of Yourself in the Eucharist, so that by choosing to consume Your Word into our very being; You give us the nourishment and strength to withstand the forces of evil. Let our minds, bodies and soul dwell on and in You as You dwell in our hearts. Let us be beacons for others which draws all to come to You. So together with them we will proclaim, “Blessed be the Lord our God! Now and for ever.” Amen

FIRST READING
1 Kings 10:1–10

GOSPEL
Mark 7:14–23

Jesus summoned the crowd again and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand. Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person; but the things that come out from within are what defile.”

When he got home away from the crowd his disciples questioned him about the parable. He said to them, “Are even you likewise without understanding? Do you not realize that everything that goes into a person from outside cannot defile, since it enters not the heart but the stomach and passes out into the latrine?” (Thus he declared all foods clean.) “But what comes out of the man, that is what defiles him. From within the man, from his heart, come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly. All these evils come from within and they defile.”

Solomon Dedicates The Temple at Jerusalem
( Painting By James Jacques Joseph Tissot)

Do we pray only for those who we deem worthy or do we pray for all, especially those who have hurt or wounded us? When we say we love and serve God with all our heart, do we then love and care for our neighbour? Do we love and care for the grumpy old man or woman suffering with pain and sickness? Do we love and care for the poor, the homeless, the weak? Do we love and care for our aged parents? Do we judge others by their appearance or behaviour and turn away from them, or do we welcome them regardless with the love of Christ? Are we rigid and calculative? Or are we open, kind, inviting and loving? We want forgiveness from God, but are we readily forgiving? Let us honour and serve our Lord with His laws written in our hearts filled with His love. Let us serve our God, with Body, Mind and soul through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever  and ever. Amen

FIRST READING 1 Kings 8:22–23, 27–30

GOSPEL Mark 7:1–13

When the Pharisees with some scribes who had come from Jerusalem
gathered around Jesus,
they observed that some of his disciples ate their meals
with unclean, that is, unwashed, hands.
(For the Pharisees and, in fact, all Jews,
do not eat without carefully washing their hands,
keeping the tradition of the elders.
And on coming from the marketplace
they do not eat without purifying themselves.
And there are many other things that they have traditionally observed,
the purification of cups and jugs and kettles and beds.)
So the Pharisees and scribes questioned him,
“Why do your disciples not follow the tradition of the elders
but instead eat a meal with unclean hands?”
He responded,
“Well did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites,
as it is written:

This people honors me with their lips,
but their hearts are far from me;
In vain do they worship me,
teaching as doctrines human precepts.

You disregard God’s commandment but cling to human tradition.”
He went on to say,
“How well you have set aside the commandment of God
in order to uphold your tradition!
For Moses said,
Honor your father and your mother,
and Whoever curses father or mother shall die.
Yet you say,
‘If someone says to father or mother,
“Any support you might have had from me is qorban”’
(meaning, dedicated to God),
you allow him to do nothing more for his father or mother.
You nullify the word of God
in favor of your tradition that you have handed on.
And you do many such things.”

Experiencing God in a personal relationship through faith, prayer and holiness is what all of us should strive for. It is a wonderful and great start however it is in essence only the beginning. For our loving Father does not want to dwell within individual hearts alone but in the heart of His Church. God dwells among His people.

A measure of the faith and love one has for Jesus is the faith and love we have for others. Do we seek out hurriedly here and everywhere all who are in need of hope, healing, love, true life? Do we help in any and every way to bring others to the love and knowledge of our Saviour Jesus Christ? Do we accept the trials and sufferings that come as a result it?

The healing love and peace of our Lord Jesus be upon us all. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Kings 8:1–7, 9–13

GOSPEL
Mark 6:53–56

After making the crossing to the other side of the sea, Jesus and his disciples came to land at Gennesaret and tied up there. As they were leaving the boat, people immediately recognized him. They scurried about the surrounding country and began to bring in the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. Whatever villages or towns or countryside he entered, they laid the sick in the marketplaces and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak; and as many as touched it were healed.

When we desire to know, understand and carry out Your Will for us. We can be sure that You will provide all we need and more. It is a wonder why? That from time to time, we fall back into anxiety and fear when new unexpected challenges arise. All we ever need to do, is come into Your presence through prayer and quiet; Your peace will be upon us as You lead the way.

When we are exhausted and in need of nourishment, let us hear You call out to us “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened; I will give you rest.” Coming into Your presence through prayer and quiet
; Your peace will be upon us as You nourish us with Your living Word. Great is Your Love that no matter how persistent we are in our prayers, for our wants and needs. You patiently and lovingly answer them all. Even at times when the answer is No! Thank You Jesus for all that You are and all that You do. Glory and praise be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Kings 3:4–13

GOSPEL
Mark 6:30–34

The Apostles gathered together with Jesus and reported all they had done and taught. He said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” People were coming and going in great numbers, and they had no opportunity even to eat. So they went off in the boat by themselves to a deserted place. People saw them leaving and many came to know about it. They hastened there on foot from all the towns and arrived at the place before them.

When Jesus disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and I he began to teach them many things

Just as we are drawn to know and love God, so it is with truth. For to love God is to embrace His truth. When we choose to live a lie, we ultimately choose to live a life without God. Life without God is to whither and die. Blessed be God our salvation!

When we love God with our very being, even if we should fall; He is there to pick us up and dust us off. Great is His mercy and His love. Our loving Father encourages and inspires us to be the best version of ourselves. Blessed be God our salvation!

Jesus our Lord and our God, show us the way. Be our light and guide forevermore. Blessed be God our salvation! Amen

FIRST READING
Sirach 47:2–11

GOSPEL
Mark 6:14–29

King Herod heard about Jesus, for his fame had become widespread, and people were saying, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead; That is why mighty powers are at work in him.” Others were saying, “He is Elijah”; still others, “He is a prophet like any of the prophets.” But when Herod learned of it, he said, “It is John whom I beheaded. He has been raised up.” Herod was the one who had John arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, whom he had married. John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so. Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man, and kept him in custody. When he heard him speak he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him. Herodias had an opportunity one day when Herod, on his birthday, gave a banquet for his courtiers, his military officers, and the leading men of Galilee. His own daughter came in and performed a dance that delighted Herod and his guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask of me whatever you wish and I will grant it to you.” He even swore many things to her, “I will grant you whatever you ask of me, even to half of my kingdom.” She went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” Her mother replied, “The head of John the Baptist.” The girl hurried back to the king’s presence and made her request, “I want you to give me at once on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” The king was deeply distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests he did not wish to break his word to her. So he promptly dispatched an executioner with orders to bring back his head. He went off and beheaded him in the prison. He brought in the head on a platter and gave it to the girl. The girl in turn gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.

O Lord our God, You are loving as You are faithful. All throughout salvation history it was us, your children who fell short or were unfaithful. Yet You were patient and merciful to all who were repentant and contrite. Be patient and merciful with us once again, keep us in Your loving care we pray.

Loving Father, through Your Son our Saviour Jesus and the Holy Spirit, we the faithful can rest in the security of Your providence. Great is Your love that we are sent after every Eucharistic celebration to share Your love with others. To bring hope where there is none. To bring peace and healing. To free the oppressed and downtrodden. Praise and glory be to Our living God now and forever. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Kings 2:1–4, 10–12

GOSPEL
Mark 6:7–13

Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over unclean spirits. He instructed them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stick –no food, no sack, no money in their belts. They were, however, to wear sandals but not a second tunic. He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave from there. Whatever place does not welcome you or listen to you, leave there and shake the dust off your feet in testimony against them.” So they went off and preached repentance. The Twelve drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.

There are times when we revel in our successes, accomplishments and recognition. Without giving thanks, praise and glory to God who provided for all that we have; we forget and exalt ourselves by our words or actions sometimes at the expense of others. We may even entertain thoughts that we had accomplished everything on our very own and indirectly separate ourselves from God. Hopefully we realise our faults early and are contrite before God instead of turning back to Him only when our ‘self made’ glories come crumbling down.

It is all too true that sharing the experience of Jesus and the Word of God with our immediate family and friends are often the most difficult. Why? Because most of them would have known us either from when we were little or before we encoutered Christ ourselves in a personal way. Patience, constant prayer and the love of Christ are key in planting the seeds. Slowly when their eyes opened to the joy they witness in our lives, the peace that we have and the love that we share; through God’s grace they will have a conversion of heart.

God loves us so much that He gave us free will. When we freely come to Him, listen and live our lives according to His Will; We are fulfilled, peace, joy and love reigns in our hearts. He lives in us as we live in Him. Amen

FIRST READING
2 Samuel 24:2, 9–17

GOSPEL
Mark 6:1–6

Jesus departed from there and came to his native place, accompanied by his disciples. When the sabbath came he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished. They said, “Where did this man get all this? What kind of wisdom has been given him? What mighty deeds are wrought by his hands! Is he not the carpenter, the son of Mary, and the brother of James and Joseph and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and among his own kin and in his own house.” So he was not able to perform any mighty deed there, apart from curing a few sick people by laying his hands on them. He was amazed at their lack of faith.

Are we obedient to the voices of men? Or to the voice of God? There are times in our lives when the ‘love’ we feel for someone, tells us to allow evil to continue on because we are afraid to lose them who have succumbed to sin. Family and friends may even concur stating that it is better to close an eye rather than close two eyes and not ever see them again. Are we being faithful then to our God?

Do we really want allow the hemorrhage to continue until the life is drained from them? Or do we lovingly encourage them to turn to Jesus and by His grace, die to their sins so that they may rise to new life in Him. This too would apply in our very own lives. He hears our intercessions for one another and comes swiftly to our aid, by our faith in Him we are healed. His peace rests upon us as we are told to go and share the good news with others. And He gives of himself; the bread of life to be nourished as we make our way. Amen

FIRST READING

2 Samuel 18:9–10, 14b, 24–25a, 30–19:3

GOSPEL
Mark 5:21–43

When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a large crowd gathered around him, and he stayed close to the sea. One of the synagogue officials, named Jairus, came forward. Seeing him he fell at his feet and pleaded earnestly with him, saying, “My daughter is at the point of death. Please, come lay your hands on her that she may get well and live.” He went off with him and a large crowd followed him.

There was a woman afflicted with hemorrhages for twelve years. She had suffered greatly at the hands of many doctors and had spent all that she had. Yet she was not helped but only grew worse. She had heard about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak. She said, “If I but touch his clothes, I shall be cured.” Immediately her flow of blood dried up. She felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction. Jesus, aware at once that power had gone out from him, turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who has touched my clothes?” But his disciples said to him, “You see how the crowd is pressing upon you, and yet you ask, Who touched me?” And he looked around to see who had done it. The woman, realizing what had happened to her, approached in fear and trembling. She fell down before Jesus and told him the whole truth. He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction.”

While he was still speaking, people from the synagogue official’s house arrived and said, “Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?” Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.” He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official, he caught sight of a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. So he went in and said to them, “Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep.” And they ridiculed him. Then he put them all out. He took along the child’s father and mother and those who were with him and entered the room where the child was. He took the child by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise!” The girl, a child of twelve, arose immediately and walked around. At that they were utterly astounded. He gave strict orders that no one should know this and said that she should be given something to eat.

Unrepentant sins of our past, long forgotten or buried; penance not performed or fulfilled will eventually come back to haunt us. Try as we may to go about leading good fruitful lives, we find ourselves caught in a vicious cycle of committing more sins, feeling guilty, depressed and then trying to move on searching and maybe finding some shortlived happiness. The heavy chains of which we carry bind us and wear us down.

Only Jesus can set us free! From all our addictions, our temptations and our sins. Only He can restore us, heal us and fill us with His love. All we need do is come before Him with a contrite heart and on our knees; acknowledge Him our Saviour, the Son of God. His mercy will be upon us; so will His love and peace. Such is His grace that filled with uncontainable joy, we want to share His promise of salvation for all and with all that we meet.

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

FIRST READING
2 Samuel 15:13–14, 30; 16:5–13

GOSPEL
Mark 5:1–20

Jesus and his disciples came to the other side of the sea, to the territory of the Gerasenes. When he got out of the boat, at once a man from the tombs who had an unclean spirit met him. The man had been dwelling among the tombs, and no one could restrain him any longer, even with a chain. In fact, he had frequently been bound with shackles and chains, but the chains had been pulled apart by him and the shackles smashed, and no one was strong enough to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and on the hillsides he was always crying out and bruising himself with stones. Catching sight of Jesus from a distance, he ran up and prostrated himself before him, crying out in a loud voice, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me!” (He had been saying to him, “Unclean spirit, come out of the man!”) He asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “Legion is my name. There are many of us.” And he pleaded earnestly with him not to drive them away from that territory.

Now a large herd of swine was feeding there on the hillside. And they pleaded with him, “Send us into the swine. Let us enter them.” And he let them, and the unclean spirits came out and entered the swine. The herd of about two thousand rushed down a steep bank into the sea, where they were drowned. The swineherds ran away and reported the incident in the town and throughout the countryside. And people came out to see what had happened. As they approached Jesus, they caught sight of the man who had been possessed by Legion, sitting there clothed and in his right mind. And they were seized with fear. Those who witnessed the incident explained to them what had happened to the possessed man and to the swine. Then they began to beg him to leave their district. As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed pleaded to remain with him. But Jesus would not permit him but told him instead, “Go home to your family and announce to them all that the Lord in his pity has done for you.” Then the man went off and began to proclaim in the Decapolis what Jesus had done for him; and all were amazed.

It is so easy for us to see and judge the sins of others and take the righteous stand of wishing judgement upon them. And yet we think we can hide our own sins from others; even if we succeed how can we hide anything from You O Lord my God? Who sees all and knows all.

If only we came to You Lord Jesus with a contrite heart. We will not only be set free but will remain securely in Your loving embrace. Even amidst the storms of life, Your peace will carry us through. Sweet Jesus have mercy on me; come reign in my heart. Amen

FIRST READING
2 Samuel 12:1–7a, 10–17

GOSPEL
Mark 4:35–41

On that day, as evening drew on, Jesus said to his disciples: “Let us cross to the other side.” Leaving the crowd, they took Jesus with them in the boat just as he was. And other boats were with him. A violent squall came up and waves were breaking over the boat, so that it was already filling up. Jesus was in the stern, asleep on a cushion. They woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” He woke up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Quiet! Be still!” The wind ceased and there was great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?” They were filled with great awe and said to one another, “Who then is this whom even wind and sea obey?”

Sin always starts out looking desirable and beautiful until it slowly but surely rears it’s ugly head! From the beginning it was so, but we a fallen people are so easily distracted and pulled away by the lure of temptation. Lord have mercy and come swiftly to our aid. Protect us and keep us focused on You. For there is no life separate from You.

Let our little faith grow big, strong bearing abundant fruit. For the life we have began in You, remaining with and in You is what sustains, nourishes and grows. Jesus guide us as we journey home to You, our light, our truth and our way to eternal life. Who lives and reigns with our heavenly Father and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen

FIRST READING
2 Samuel 11:1–4a, 5–10a, 13–1

GOSPEL
Mark 4:26–34

Jesus said to the crowds:
“This is how it is with the Kingdom of God; it is as if a man were to scatter seed on the land and would sleep and rise night and day and the seed would sprout and grow, he knows not how. Of its own accord the land yields fruit, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. And when the grain is ripe, he wields the sickle at once, for the harvest has come.”

He said,
“To what shall we compare the Kingdom of God, or what parable can we use for it? It is like a mustard seed that, when it is sown in the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on the earth. But once it is sown, it springs up and becomes the largest of plants and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the sky can dwell in its shade.” With many such parables he spoke the word to them as they were able to understand it. Without parables he did not speak to them, but to his own disciples he explained everything in private.

All that we ever have comes from You. All gifts, skills talents and possessions, You O Lord have provided. Yet we often take all for granted neither offering You thanks and praise. Forgive us Father for our failures and continue to shower us with Your love.

Your greatest gift to us is Your Son, the living Word made flesh. Not for our personal possession or a treasure to be hidden, but to share with all whom we meet. The light which dispels all darkness and illumines minds and hearts. Help us grow in faith and love so that we may give freely from and of our hearts that we receive in abundance from You, O Lord, our God. Amen

FIRST READING
2 Samuel 7:18–19, 24–29

GOSPEL
Mark 4:21–25

Jesus said to his disciples,
“Is a lamp brought in to be placed under a bushel basket or under a bed, and not to be placed on a lampstand? For there is nothing hidden except to be made visible; nothing is secret except to come to light. Anyone who has ears to hear ought to hear.” He also told them, “Take care what you hear. The measure with which you measure will be measured out to you, and still more will be given to you. To the one who has, more will be given; from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.”

Abba, You seek to dwell in the home of my heart; yet falling into the lure of sin I have sullied myself time and time again.  I come before you heavenly Father with a contrite heart; By the precious blood of Your Son shed for us, may I be washed clean. So that You may dwell in me and I in You.

Let Your Word take root in me that I may bear fruit which is pleasing to You and in abundance.  Let my life be a testimony to Your great Glory.  Give me the courage and grace to lead others to You. In Jesus’ name…Amen

FIRST READING
2 Samuel 7:4–17

GOSPEL
Mark 4:1–20

On another occasion, Jesus began to teach by the sea. A very large crowd gathered around him so that he got into a boat on the sea and sat down. And the whole crowd was beside the sea on land. And he taught them at length in parables, and in the course of his instruction he said to them, “Hear this! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Other seed fell on rocky ground where it had little soil. It sprang up at once because the soil was not deep. And when the sun rose, it was scorched and it withered for lack of roots. Some seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it and it produced no grain. And some seed fell on rich soil and produced fruit. It came up and grew and yielded thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold.” He added, “Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.”

And when he was alone, those present along with the Twelve questioned him about the parables. He answered them, “The mystery of the Kingdom of God has been granted to you. But to those outside everything comes in parables, so that

they may look and see but not perceive, and hear and listen but not understand, in order that they may not be converted and be forgiven.”

Jesus said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? Then how will you understand any of the parables? The sower sows the word. These are the ones on the path where the word is sown. As soon as they hear, Satan comes at once and takes away the word sown in them. And these are the ones sown on rocky ground who, when they hear the word, receive it at once with joy. But they have no roots; they last only for a time. Then when tribulation or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. Those sown among thorns are another sort. They are the people who hear the word, but worldly anxiety, the lure of riches, and the craving for other things intrude and choke the word, and it bears no fruit. But those sown on rich soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit thirty and sixty and a hundredfold.”

Let us sing praises to our living God giving thanks all the days of our lives. Let us dance and make music to honour our Lord, our God! Why should we be shy even ashamed to glorify and worship Him? Praise and glory be to God!

We the faithful are all God’s children, one joyous family with Jesus our Head, our Bridegroom; Our darling Shepherd who leads us home. Glory be to the Father and the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Amen

FIRST READING
2 Samuel 6:12b–15, 17–19

GOSPEL
Mark 3:31–35

The mother of Jesus and his brothers arrived at the house. Standing outside, they sent word to Jesus and called him. A crowd seated around him told him, “Your mother and your brothers and your sisters are outside asking for you.” But he said to them in reply, “Who are my motherz and my brothers?” And looking around at those seated in the circle he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.”

Let us pay homage to our Lord and King! Who conquered sin and death so that we may live. Many will mock us and think us weak by our faith and love for Jesus. They will witness His power for He is with us.

Let us stand United sisters and brothers in all we say and do for our Lord. Let us embrace our differences for we all have been given different gifts and talents and together we build what is larger than ourselves put together; our Holy Church, His Kingdom.

No evil shall overcome us, for the Lord is with us. Amen

FIRST READING
2 Samuel 5:1–7, 10

GOSPEL
Mark 3:22–30

The scribes who had come from Jerusalem said of Jesus, “He is possessed by Beelzebul,” and “By the prince of demons he drives out demons.”

Summoning them, he began to speak to them in parables, “How can Satan drive out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand; that is the end of him. But no one can enter a strong man’s house to plunder his property unless he first ties up the strong man. Then he can plunder his house. Amen, I say to you, all sins and all blasphemies that people utter will be forgiven them. But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never have forgiveness, but is guilty of an everlasting sin.” For they had said, “He has an unclean spirit.”

Forgive me Lord for times I lashed out and wagged my tongue at my sisters and brothers in You, out of anger or personal frustration. For failing to see that when I persecute them, I persecute You as well; for we are one body.

By St Paul’s example let me constantly seek a conversion of heart, to be transformed by Your love. So that my eyes and heart are opened to Your Will for me. Let me bring Your peace, love, hope and message of salvation to all. In Your most precious name Jesus. Amen

25 January 2014

GOSPEL
Mark 16:15–18

Jesus appeared to the Eleven and said to them:
“Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; whoever does not believe will be condemned. These signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will drive out demons, they will speak new languages. They will pick up serpents with their hands, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not harm them. They will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

Oh how quickly I react out of anger, jealousy or when I feel disrespected. Often refusing to stand to reason, Lord have mercy.

When people persecute me, oh how quickly I plot their demise! Seeking to cut them off and tear them down, to kill their spirit even their reputation. Lord have mercy.

Lord Jesus let me never forget that even those who may plot evil against me and have gone astray from You, are still Your children. By Your strength and Grace let me reach out to them in love instead. Let me strive to lead them home. And if I should fail let me continue to pray for them. As You send me out to do Your Will, let Your Spirit be my guide in everything. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Samuel 24:3–21

Saul took three tho
GOSPEL
Mark 3:13–19

Jesus went up the mountain and summoned those whom he wanted and they came to him. He appointed Twelve, whom he also named Apostles, that they might be with him and he might send them forth to preach and to have authority to drive out demons: He appointed the Twelve: Simon, whom he named Peter; James, son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James, whom he named Boanerges, that is, sons of thunder; Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus; Thaddeus, Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot who betrayed him.

Forgive me for the many times I let jealousy cloud my judgement. When I allowed resentment and lust for recognition consume me.

I know now that I should always come into Your presence Lord Jesus. For You will break the bonds of my sinfulness and heal me. Teach me to love and set me free so that I may live, love and serve You by building Your Kingdom. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Samuel 18:6–9; 19:1–7

GOSPEL
Mark 3:7–12

Jesus withdrew toward the sea with his disciples. A large number of people followed from Galilee and from Judea. Hearing what he was doing, a large number of people came to him also from Jerusalem, from Idumea, from beyond the Jordan, and from the neighborhood of Tyre and Sidon. He told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, so that they would not crush him. He had cured many and, as a result, those who had diseases were pressing upon him to touch him. And whenever unclean spirits saw him they would fall down before him and shout, “You are the Son of God.” He warned them sternly not to make him known.

No task is too great! No mountain too high! No evil need I fear! For the love, grace and strength of God is upon me. With this confidence I am able to charge forward and onward day by day  to do as He Wills me. Praise and Glory be to God!

Sweet Jesus let my heart not be hardened against the cries of those in need of help. In Your footsteps let me strive to do as much good as I can, whenever I can, each and everyday. Let my words be tempered with love, prudence and patience; and let them build up rather than tear down. Grant me wisdom and counsel that I may always speak Your truth at an opportune time; even admonishing when the need arises albeit gently as possible. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Samuel 17:32–33, 37, 40–51

GOSPEL
Mark 3:1–6

Jesus entered the synagogue. There was a man there who had a withered hand. They watched Jesus closely to see if he would cure him on the sabbath so that they might accuse him. He said to the man with the withered hand, “Come up here before us.” Then he said to the Pharisees, “Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?” But they remained silent. Looking around at them with anger and grieved at their hardness of heart, Jesus said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out and his hand was restored. The Pharisees went out and immediately took counsel with the Herodians against him to put him to death.

O Lord my God, seeker of hearts; I’ve come to do Your Will. Let my heart not be hardened but soft and supple which is pleasing in Your eyes. Let Your laws be written in it for it was given to us through, for and by Your love for us.

By our baptism and confirmation, You have anointed us Your chosen ones. Let us never take Your gifts for granted as we spend time pondering over Your great love for us, the laws You provide, Your commands, Your Word and Will for us. In Jesus name we pray. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Samuel 16:1–13

GOSPEL
Mark 2:23–28

As Jesus was passing through a field of grain on the sabbath, his disciples began to make a path while picking the heads of grain. At this the Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the sabbath?” He said to them, “Have you never read what David did when he was in need and he and his companions were hungry? How he went into the house of God when Abiathar was high priest and ate the bread of offering that only the priests could lawfully eat, and shared it with his companions?” Then he said to them, “The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath. That is why the Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath.”

God will understand or I am doing it my way for His glory. There is no harm in seeking out fortune tellers to ready ourselves for coming situations. Some observances of the Church are outdated like fasting during Lent, Advent or before each Eucharistic celebration. How faithful are we really to God’s commands and Will for us?

Work is top priority in my life otherwise how will I put food on the table? What little time I have left is for my Family, where do I have time to serve the church or the community? God understands, He will patiently wait when I have more time maybe when I retire. How faithful are we really to God’s commands and Will for us?

I never miss Sunday Eucharistic celebrations, I even attend weekday mass regularly. I observe all the practices of our Church. I do what I can whenever I can make time for my ministry and my parish. True servants of God will attend daily Eucharistic celebrations. How faithful are we really to God’s commands and Will for us?

Let us always be faithful in our hearts first to the Will of God. Let us reflect and deeply ponder on what we do and why we do what we do for the love of God; lest all we do are useless in the eyes of our heavenly Father for it serves our own purpose and intentions. Lord Jesus be our guide, let us always remain steadfast in Your love as we do the Will of our Father. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Samuel 15:16–23

GOSPEL
Mark 2:18–22

The disciples of John and of the Pharisees were accustomed to fast. People came to Jesus and objected, “Why do the disciples of John and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot# fast. But the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast on that day. No one sews a piece of unshrunken cloth on an old cloak. If he does, its fullness pulls away, the new from the old, and the tear gets worse. Likewise, no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the skins are ruined. Rather, new wine is poured into fresh wineskins.”

If we lived our lives in Your presence Lord, we will recognise and see Your loving hand in all things. We would constantly be in awe of Your great love for us;praising and thanking You all our lives. But we are a fallen people Lord often blinded by Sin.

Still in Your great love and mercy You seek us out Lord Jesus. It does not matter to You how soiled we are or how lowly and poorly we have lived our lives. You invite us to come follow You and with our Yes Your loving mercy is upon us and we are transformed by Your love. Grant us the Grace to remain steadfast in Your love.

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

FIRST READING
1 Samuel 9:1–4, 17–19; 10:1

GOSPEL
Mark 2:13–17

Jesus went out along the sea. All the crowd came to him and he taught them. As he passed by, he saw Levi, son of Alphaeus, sitting at the customs post. Jesus said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed Jesus. While he was at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners sat with Jesus and his disciples; for there were many who followed him. Some scribes who were Pharisees saw that Jesus was eating with sinners and tax collectors and said to his disciples, “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” Jesus heard this and said to them, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”

There is NO Leader greater than You my Lord Jesus! Our Lord and King! And yet why do some of us foolishly look elsewhere for wisdom or guidance? Some look for encouragement and answers from those now in the grave, who have had their own belief systems on how to be happy and lead peaceful lives. Others turn to modern day ‘gurus’ and ‘sages’ on how to lead fruitful lives.

Sadly they do not realise that they are alienating themselves from You. They choose instead to believe that most if not all religions are equal because while different in their own way they still point to the same source which is to ‘God’. Never mind the conflicting teachings, worship practices or that even in some there are more than one, in fact many ‘Gods’.  It does not even matter to them that throughout scripture in at least forty different places we find that “there is only one God” or that the commandment says “You shall have no other Gods before me” Then in Matt 6:24  “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.

You loving Master are the way, and the truth, and the life.  The light of all mankind; in and through You we have life because You Lord Jesus are the resurrection. The lamb of God which took away the sins of the World and in Your divine mercy You forgive us our sins who turn to You.  Help us to lead others into the knowledge of You, that they might enter into the loving relationship we have.  So that they too might share in the promises of God fulfilled in You. Lord hear the prayers of Your faithful. Amen

First reading
1 Samuel 8:4-7,10-22

Gospel
Mark 2:1-12

When Jesus returned to Capernaum, word went round that he was back; and so many people collected that there was no room left, even in front of the door. He was preaching the word to them when some people came bringing him a paralytic carried by four men, but as the crowd made it impossible to get the man to him, they stripped the roof over the place where Jesus was; and when they had made an opening, they lowered the stretcher on which the paralytic lay. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralytic, ‘My child, your sins are forgiven.’ Now some scribes were sitting there, and they thought to themselves, ‘How can this man talk like that? He is blaspheming. Who can forgive sins but God?’ Jesus, inwardly aware that this was what they were thinking, said to them, ‘Why do you have these thoughts in your hearts? Which of these is easier: to say to the paralytic, “Your sins are forgiven” or to say, “Get up, pick up your stretcher and walk”? But to prove to you that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins,’ – he turned to the paralytic – ‘I order you: get up, pick up your stretcher, and go off home.’ And the man got up, picked up his stretcher at once and walked out in front of everyone, so that they were all astounded and praised God saying, ‘We have never seen anything like this.’

Have mercy on me Lord for the many times I had taken Your love for me for granted. How arrogant was I to think that as Your child I had Your ear no matter what, without sorrow or repentance for my sins.

Nothing in this world is of any value whatsoever without Your love or Your presence. It is only through a steadfast love and faith in You that I am made worthy of Your promises. Your Will be done, my Lord, my God in every aspect of my life.

In Your mercy You have healed and cleansed me of my sins. Let me be an example and witness to Your love and glory to all whom I encounter. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Samuel 4:1–11

GOSPEL
Mark 1:40–45

A leper came to him and kneeling down begged him and said, “If you wish, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand, touched the leper, and said to him, “I do will it. Be made clean.” The leprosy left him immediately, and he was made clean. Then, warning him sternly, he dismissed him at once. Then he said to him, “See that you tell no one anything, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer for your cleansing what Moses prescribed; that will be proof for them.” The man went away and began to publicize the whole matter. He spread the report abroad so that it was impossible for Jesus to enter a town openly. He remained outside in deserted places, and people kept coming to him from everywhere.

You are compassionate as You are loving my Lord Jesus for through our intercession You have healed many that have been brought to Your attention.  You allow us to participate in a small way and we are grateful to be able to witness Your Love and Glory.

True healing and salvation comes from Your Word O God and we praise and thank You for Your Word made flesh; Your Son our Lord Jesus,  He is all we need in this life and the next.

Jesus in His lifetime always made time to come to You in prayer Abba Father, by His example let me do the same. And through my quiet time with You, let me be renewed and strengthened; With and by Your Grace, may I bring the knowledge and hope of salvation of Your Son Jesus to all I meet. As I cry out to You daily ,”Here I am Lord! I’ve come to do Your Will.” Amen.

FIRST READING
1 Samuel 3:1–10, 19–20

GOSPEL
Mark 1:29–39

On leaving the synagogue Jesus entered the house of Simon and Andrew with James and John. Simon’s mother–in–law lay sick with a fever. They immediately told him about her. He approached, grasped her hand, and helped her up. Then the fever left her and she waited on them.

When it was evening, after sunset, they brought to him all who were ill or possessed by demons. The whole town was gathered at the door. He cured many who were sick with various diseases, and he drove out many demons, not permitting them to speak because they knew him.

Rising very early before dawn, he left and went off to a deserted place, where he prayed. Simon and those who were with him pursued him and on finding him said, “Everyone is looking for you.” He told them, “Let us go on to the nearby villages that I may preach there also. For this purpose have I come.” So he went into their synagogues, preaching and driving out demons throughout the whole of Galilee.