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Forgive me Lord for there have been times I was quick to judge others without knowing what was in their hearts or the situation they were in. Instead of trying to find out, interceding through prayers or offering comfort depending on the situation.

Many times falling into sin, I had need of cleansing and You O Lord Jesus through the sacrament of reconciliation healed and made me whole. Merciful and loving God, give me the grace, courage and strength to overcome temptations so that I may no longer offend You by my sins. Help me to lead a fruitful and holy life. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Samuel 1:9–20

GOSPEL
Mark 1:21–28

Jesus came to Capernaum with his followers, and on the sabbath he entered the synagogue and taught. The people were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority and not as the scribes. In their synagogue was a man with an unclean spirit; he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are–the Holy One of God!” Jesus rebuked him and said, “Quiet! Come out of him!” The unclean spirit convulsed him and with a loud cry came out of him. All were amazed and asked one another, “What is this? A new teaching with authority. He commands even the unclean spirits and they obey him.” His fame spread everywhere throughout the whole region of Galilee.

You O Lord are faithful to those who serve You with a pious heart. Our human hearts are often troubled and we weep because we do not understand or see Your plans for us. However when we cry out to You; You are swift to grant us peace and comfort. And our prayers are answered according to Your Will.

Today I resolve to strive even harder to turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospels. To heed Your call to follow You and to lead others into Your heavenly fold. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Samuel 1:1–8

GOSPEL
Mark 1:14–20

After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the Gospel of God: “This is the time of fulfillment. The Kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel.”

As he passed by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea; they were fishermen. Jesus said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Then they left their nets and followed him. He walked along a little farther and saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They too were in a boat mending their nets. Then he called them. So they left their father Zebedee in the boat along with the hired men and followed him.

You have blessed me Lord with the knowledge and faith that as You dwell in my heart as I dwell in Yours; no evil will I fear nor will I not overcome.

Help me each passing they to grow in Your love as I surrender myself readily to You O Lord. Let me bring Your peace and love to all, especially those struggling to know You and lead righteous lives. Give me the wisdom and courage to speak out against the evil and sinful lives some of my sisters and brothers have chosen so as to lead them back them into the fold by Your Grace. Amen

FIRST READING
John 5:14–21

GOSPEL
John 3:22–30

Jesus and his disciples went into the region of Judea, where he spent some time with them baptizing. John was also baptizing g in Aenon near Salim, because there was an abundance of water there, and people came to be baptized, for John had not yet been imprisoned. Now a dispute arose between the disciples of John and a Jew about ceremonial washings. So they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, the one who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you testified, here he is baptizing and everyone is coming to him.” John answered and said, “No one can receive anything except what has been given from heaven. You yourselves can testify that I said that I am not the Christ, but that I was sent before him. The one who has the bride is the bridegroom; the best man, who stands and listens for him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. So this joy of mine has been made complete. He must increase; I must decreas

As I fall into the temptation of sin, just like a disease it attacks my moral core. And soon I start to whither dying slowly but surely. Guilt tries to prevent me from seeking help as I am blinded by grief and depression.

But I cry out to You O Lord my Christ, my Saviour and You come swiftly to heal me. By Your precious blood I am set free. My peers find no fault in me and I walk blameless.

Let me now honour, love and serve You by my new life in You. In Your most precious name Jesus I pray. Amen

FIRST READING
John 5:5–13

GOSPEL
Luke 5:12–16

It happened that there was a man full of leprosy in one of the towns where Jesus was; and when he saw Jesus, he fell prostrate, pleaded with him, and said, “Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean.” Jesus stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, “I do will it. Be made clean.” And the leprosy left him immediately. Then he ordered him not to tell anyone, but “Go, show yourself to the priest and offer for your cleansing what Moses prescribed; that will be proof for them.” The report about him spread all the more, and great crowds assembled to listen to him and to be cured of their ailments, but he would withdraw to deserted places to pray.

The power of forgiveness comes from God; and is rooted in His love. Forgiveness is an act of love of God and love for God. It liberates both if not all God’s children. For to love Him is to be merciful as He our loving Father is merciful. To choose unforgiveness is to choose to separate ourselves from our God. For to remain in Communion with God is to remain faithful to His body the Church. We sisters and brothers are Church.

Let the Word of God reign in our hearts as we love and serve Him and His Church. By the command of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, through the Holy Spirit ; let us proclaim the Good news to everyone who would listen, let us bring healing as we open hearts and minds to His Word. Let us build His Kingdom with love and in love. Amen

FIRST READING
John 4:19B5:4

GOSPEL
Luke 4:14–22

Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit, and news of him spread throughout the whole region. He taught in their synagogues and was praised by all.

He came to Nazareth, where he had grown up, and went according to his custom into the synagogue on the sabbath day. He stood up to read and was handed a scroll of the prophet Isaiah. He unrolled the scroll and found the passage where it was written:
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, and to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord.

Rolling up the scroll, he handed it back to the attendant and sat down, and the eyes of all in the synagogue looked intently at him. He said to them, “Today this Scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.” And all spoke highly of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his mouth.

We lead very busy hectic lives, most to survive while others to thrive at their successes. We are afraid to lose our jobs, we are afraid for our family’s well being, of losing our positions or even promotions. Where is God in our lives? When do we have time for God? Will we only have time when we lose our jobs? When we are sick? When we are desperate? Do we ever spend quality time with our God in prayer? Are our hearts hardened to know and experience God? Will we even recognize Him in our midst?

God is love and He loves us. To love Him is to know Him, and to know Him is see His hand in all that is good. When God is at the very centre of our lives, we work with love and in love. Whatever we do, we do to glorify God. We do the best that we can do and He will take care of the rest. Even our imperfections are used as tools in His hands and are perfected through Him. And should we ever be anxious, in moments of weakness as stormy weather looms; we need only cry out to Him and feel the warm embrace in the shadow of His wings. All praise and glory be to God. Amen

FIRST READING
John 4:11–18

GOSPEL
Mark 6:45–52

After the five thousand had eaten and were satisfied, Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and precede him to the other side toward Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. And when he had taken leave of them, he went off to the mountain to pray. When it was evening, the boat was far out on the sea and he was alone on shore. Then he saw that they were tossed about while rowing, for the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them walking on the sea. He meant to pass by them. But when they saw him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost and cried out. They had all seen him and were terrified. But at once he spoke with them, “Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!” He got into the boat with them and the wind died down. They were completely astounded. They had not understood the incident of the loaves. On the contrary, their hearts were hardened.

Loving Lord our God, what did we ever do to merit such love from You? Our selfish ungrateful hearts knew not love till You soften them with Your gentle touch. You who gather the lost sheep under your wings, who Shepherd them in Your loving care. Who bathe, clothe and feed them. Help us Lord Jesus, be loving as You are so loving.

So great is Your Love that You give to us of Yourself in the Holy Eucharist. To see, to touch to love and receive You as we are received by You in perfect union. We are ONE in the precious gift of Holy Communion; Help us Lord Jesus, be loving as You are so loving.

Fountain of love You bestow Your Grace upon us each and every day; an ever living Word seen in the light of the old revealed in the new. Nurturing, nourishing, ever growing, always, faithful abundantly fruitful. Help us Lord Jesus, be loving as You are so loving.

FIRST READING
John 4:7–10

GOSPEL
Mark 6:34–44

When Jesus saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things. By now it was already late and his disciples approached him and said, “This is a deserted place and it is already very late. Dismiss them so that they can go to the surrounding farms and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” He said to them in reply, “Give them some food yourselves.” But they said to him, “Are we to buy two hundred days’ wages worth of food and give it to them to eat?” He asked them, “How many loaves do you have? Go and see.” And when they had found out they said, “Five loaves and two fish.” So he gave orders to have them sit down in groups on the green grass. The people took their places in rows by hundreds and by fifties. Then, taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; he also divided the two fish among them all. They all ate and were satisfied. And they picked up twelve wicker baskets full of fragments and what was left of the fish. Those who ate of the loaves were five thousand men.

Why do we still grope around in darkness? Have we not seen? Have we not heard? Have we not yet encountered our Lord? Or have we turned our backs on Him? Has living in this world taken first priority? Has the pursuit of wealth and prosperity brought us any closer to peace and fulfilment? Does lust and power rule our hearts? Have we cast a shadow over ourselves?

Are we children of the world or children of God? Jesus came so that we may live in the light. The light that dispels all darkness! So that God may dwell in our hearts as we journey into His heavenly Kingdom. Are we repentant? Do we hear His call?

All we need do is cry out to Him with contrite hearts , “Yes Lord. Have mercy on me a sinner.” And He will take over, our Lord will heal us. He will liberate us from all that binds us. He will transform us that we may live in His love. The Kingdom of God is at hand. Amen

FIRST READING
John 3:22B4:6

GOSPEL
Matthew 4:12–17, 23–25

When Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee. He left Nazareth and went to live in Capernaum by the sea, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali, that what had been said through Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled:

Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles, the people who sit in darkness have seen a great light, on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death light has arisen.

From that time on, Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

He went around all of Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom, and curing every disease and illness among the people. His fame spread to all of Syria, and they brought to him all who were sick with various diseases and racked with pain, those who were possessed, lunatics, and paralytics, and he cured them. And great crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, and Judea, and from beyond the Jordan followed him.

O how difficult it is to live a righteous and loving life especially when tries to do so without God. For it is only through Jesus that we are able to do so.

Life without God is often a battle of Wills! Children against parents and vice versa, between family members, bosses and staff, co-workers, friends, church members, people we interect with. It all comes down to win or lose and we don’t like to lose. But the real question is who truly wins in the end?

Jesus never imposes His Will upon us, instead He warmly invites us to “Come and see…” Come and see how wonderful life is with Him in it. How peaceful and joyful, even when we carry our cross to follow Him. How we can lead fruitful lives in holiness, righteousness and love. How we can be transformed by Him, to be more and to do more. Let us rejoice as we say “Yes Lord, here I stand ready to follow You..” Amen

FIRST READING
John 3:7–10

GOSPEL
John 1:35–42

John was standing with two of his disciples, and as he watched Jesus walk by, he said, “Behold, the Lamb of God.” The two disciples he what he said and followed Jesus. Jesus turned and saw them following him and said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?” He said to them, “Come, and you will see.” So they went and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day. It was about four in the afternoon. Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, was one of the two who heard John and followed Jesus. He first found his own brother Simon and told him, “We have found the Messiah,” which is translated Christ. Then he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon the son of John; you will be called Cephas,” which is translated Peter.

Thank You Abba Father, for through the gift of Your Son I am made worthy to be called Your child. Growing in the knowledge of You has filled my life with such Grace and joy that I sometimes weep at having done nothing to merit such abundance of love from You.

I am still weak and vulnerable and often times fall into sin. But You sweet Jesus, lamb of God have laid down your life for me, that I may be renewed in and through Your precious blood. The promise of salvation fulfilled in You leads me willingly, as I fall on my knees at Your feet sorrowful for my sins. Then I feel Your gentle embrace as I am restored in Your love. Build me up in Your strength, faith and love my Lord Jesus that I may sin no more. Dwell in my heart forevermore! Amen

FIRST READING
John 2:29B3:6

GOSPEL
John 1:29–34

John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. He is the one of whom I said, ‘A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.’ I did not know him, but the reason why I came baptizing with water was that he might be made known to Israel.” John testified further, saying, “I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from the sky and remain upon him. I did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain, he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God.”

Jesus Son of the living God have mercy on us all. For ever having doubts in You, for not making the effort to know You on a personal level and having chosen to remain living sinful lives. Jesus our Lord, You who waits patiently with open arms ready to embrace sinners; Come swiftly to the aid of all who call on You.

Jesus Son of the living God, help us disciples stay steadfast in Your love and light. Let us be beacons of that same love and light so that we may draw others to You.  To make straight the way for You to enter into their hearts as we journey together towards the heavenly Kingdom. Amen

FIRST READING
John 2:22–28

GOSPEL
John 1:19–28

This is the testimony of John.
When the Jews from Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to him to ask him, “Who are you?” He admitted and did not deny it, but admitted, “I am not the Christ.” So they asked him, “What are you then? Are you Elijah?” And he said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.” So they said to him, “Who are you, so we can give an answer to those who sent us? What do you have to say for yourself?” He said: “I am the voice of one crying out in the desert, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as Isaiah the prophet said.” Some Pharisees were also sent. They asked him, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ or Elijah or the Prophet?” John answered them, “I baptize with water; but there is one among you whom you do not recognize, the one who is coming after me, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to untie.” This happened in Bethany across the Jordan, where John was baptizing.

O Blessed am I, a child of God! From the womb of our blessed Mother Mary, by the grace of God through my Lord Jesus Christ; I had been Baptised and the Holy Spirit was upon me with gifts from on High.

Such is the depths of our God’s love that to bask in it’s warmth with some knowledge of the great and vast mysteries is to embrace them that are revealed just like our blessed Mother did. To ponder and reflect deeply God’s love for us.

To all my sisters and brothers in Christ, ‘May our Lord bless you and keep you, may He cause His face to shine upon you. And may He bless you with peace, love and joy.” Amen

(Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God)

GOSPEL
Luke 2:16–21

The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child. All who heard it were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds. And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them.

When eight days were completed for his circumcision, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

O loving and everlasting God our Father how can we ever thank You enough? Praise You enough? Love You enough? We who are flawed and often blinded by sin; and who often lead selfish, self-centred lives. We who hold on to worldly attachments and replace simple truths with glamourous notions, concoctions which distorts and twists the truth to provide us with personal comforts and glorification.  And yet You love us so much that You sent Your Son….

Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit one God for ever and ever.  You entrusted Him to blessed parents who were made in Your image and so came to them as a vulnerable baby to be cared for.  He grew up strong and began his journey to show us the truth, the light and the way.  He preached the Good News to the poor, the blind received their sight, and the lame walked, the lepers were cleansed, and the deaf heard, the dead were raised up.  The message was clear, the Kingdom of God is at hand and the Son of God was among us. Still most refused to listen and so our Lord took all our sins upon Himself as they put Him to death for the truth. But death had no hold over Him and so our Lord and Saviour rose from the dead and ascended into Heaven where He has prepared rooms for us faithful.

Loving Father because of Your great mercy and love for us; through Your Son we can enter into a very personal and deep relationship with You. Let us never take this relationship we have with You for granted. Through the Holy Spirit our counsellor and guide may we welcome the New Year with renewed zeal for love of You. May we continue to do Your Will for us as we strive to lead lives of holiness. Amen

FIRST READING
John 2:18–21

GOSPEL
John 1:1–18

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came to be through him, and without him nothing came to be. What came to be through him was life, and this life was the light of the human race; the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

A man named John was sent from God. He came for testimony, to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.

He was in the world, and the world came to be through him, but the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, but his own people did not accept him.

But to those who did accept him he gave power to become children of God, to those who believe in his name, who were born not by natural generation nor by human choice nor by a man’s decision but of God.

And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father’s only–begotten Son, full of grace and truth.

John testified to him and cried out, saying, “This was he of whom I said, ‘The one who is coming after me ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.’” From his fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace, because while the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. The only–begotten Son, God, who is at the Father’s side, has revealed him.

Great is Your love and faithfulness O God that Your promise was fulfilled by the sending of Your Son our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.  And all who were faithful were given the grace to prophesy the coming of the redeemer King.

Anna was one of Your chosen models of faithfulness to witness the arrival of Your Son. She who worshipped, loved and served You with all her heart all her life long years. She is also one of the earliest evangelist to proclaim the good news of our salvation to all whom were hoping and waiting.

In a sense Anna also signifies the Church who is at present a widow by the death of her husband; waiting for the day she knows not when, to be reunited with Him. We are His Church and Our Lord and God dwells in the hearts of us who choose to remain faithful. We are given the graces to prophesy the good news, to share His love and salvation for all who would receive Him.  Let us live NOT in this World but live our lives doing the Will of our Father; for we will have life with Him in His Heavenly Kingdom. Amen

FIRST READING
John 2:12–17

GOSPEL
Luke 2:36–40

There was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty–four. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer. And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.

When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.

O sweet Holy Innocents, what praises to God you could not utter with your mouths, you did so by your deaths for Jesus. By your short lives you remind us that we should all lead fruitful meaningful lives glorifying God.

Pray for us that we will always walk in the light of Christ; For darkness and evil has no hold over us when we strive to lead holy lives worthy of God. Together we pray in Jesus name. Amen

FIRST READING
1 John 1:5–2:2

GOSPEL
Matthew 2:13–18

When the magi had departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.” Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt. He stayed there until the death of Herod, that what the Lord had said through the prophet might be fulfilled, Out of Egypt I called my son.

When Herod realized that he had been deceived by the magi, he became furious. He ordered the massacre of all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had ascertained from the magi. Then was fulfilled what had been said through Jeremiah the prophet:

A voice was heard in Ramah, sobbing and loud lamentation; Rachel weeping for her children, and she would not be consoled, since they were no more.

Today Lord Jesus we remember Your Apostle St John, whom by Your Grace and love is a great inspiration for all of us to enter into a deeper and meaningful relationship with You, our heavenly Father and the Holy Spirit.

With a childlike innocence and simplicity of heart filled with love for You. He led an exemplary humble life of service, showing great love and reverence for You. He also showed love and respect for Your vicar our first pope St Peter. It is apparent why you chose to entrust Your mother into his care.

By his example may we plunge into the deepest ocean of God’s love so that we too may hope to gain intimate knowledge, wisdom of You entering into greater depths of an everlasting relationship with You our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen

FIRST READING
1 John 1:1–4

GOSPEL
John 20:1a and 2–8

On the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene ran and went to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and told them, “They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we do not know where they put him.” So Peter and the other disciple went out and came to the tomb. They both ran, but the other disciple ran faster than Peter and arrived at the tomb first; he bent down and saw the burial cloths there, but did not go in. When Simon Peter arrived after him, he went into the tomb and saw the burial cloths there, and the cloth that had covered his head, not with the burial cloths but rolled up in a separate place. Then the other disciple also went in, the one who had arrived at the tomb first, and he saw and believed.

Great is Your love O God that You will never abandon Your faithful, especially in the hour of need. Your Grace comes swiftly upon us, filled with Your peace, love and joy; we can endure all that befalls in this life.

In the loving example of St Stephen let me call out to You, “Into Your hands I commend my spirit.” And grant me Your strength and Your love to pray for those who persecute me for Your sake; that You not hold the sin against them. Amen

FIRST READING
Acts 6:8–10; 7:54–59

GOSPEL
Matthew 10:17–22

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Beware of men, for they will hand you over to courts and scourge you in their synagogues, and you will be led before governors and kings for my sake as a witness before them and the pagans. When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say. You will be given at that moment what you are to say. For it will not be you who speak but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Brother will hand over brother to death, and the father his child; children will rise up against parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved.”

How great is our God! Born not only to reconcile, redeem and liberate us. He came so that we may encounter Him and enter into a deep, personal relationship with Him.

There is no other!  Praise to our Lord Jesus Christ! Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Amen

Blessed are You Lord God of All Creation!

Today I pledge my love and service. To strive always to live a life of holiness so that I may be Your loving instrument to prepare room and hearts to receive You. Amen

Praise be to You my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!

Morning Mass

FIRST READING
2 Samuel 7:1–5, 8b–12, 14a, 16

GOSPEL
Luke 1:67–79

Zechariah his father, filled with the Holy Spirit, prophesied, saying:

“Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; for he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty Savior, born of the house of his servant David. Through his prophets he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all who hate us. He promised to show mercy to our fathers and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham: to set us free from the hand of our enemies, free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life. You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, to give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.”

O Lord, my God I praise and thank You for everything in my life. Loving and merciful are You my God that You grant bountiful blessings and Graces.

Every one of Your children O loving Father experienced the miracle of life through birth. And everyone of us are unique, with unique gifts and the freedom to follow our own paths. But all of us are given the same task to lead your children on the path back to You. Especially those who are lost or have strayed.

By the great example of St John the Baptist’s parents and St John himself who was obedient and did the Will of our heavenly Father and through the life giving grace and strength of You our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ; may we do likewise and bring all into the same faith as we embark on our pilgrim journey together. Amen

FIRST READING
Malachi 3:1–4, 23–24

GOSPEL
Luke 1:57–66

When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.” But they answered her, “There is no one among your relatives who has this name.” So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, “What, then, will this child be? For surely the hand of the Lord was with him.”

Thank You Jesus for giving us Your Mother. She is so loving, so understanding, so kind. Upon receiving the Good News, she is the first to share it and to be there to help for her aged cousin who was to bear St John the Baptist. Filled with the Holy Spirit, her greeting brought Your peace, love and such joy.

By her example which is most pleasing to God, may we put others before self. May we always and everwhere give thanks and praise to God our heavenly Father by both our word and deeds. May we always stand ready and prepared to give answer for the reason for our hope, peace and joy to be found in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen

FIRST READING
Zephaniah 3:14–18a

GOSPEL
Luke 1:39–45

Mary set out in those days and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.”

Blessed Mother, on this day I recall Your ‘Yes’ that led to the glorious birth of our Lord and start of our Salvation.  Teach me dear Mother, so that I may learn your wisdom, that I may possess your endearing faith and trust in God our Father.  That I may obedient as you were and listen to your instruction to “do whatever He tells you.”

Jesus your son said, “My kingdom is not of this world. (JN:36) Let me therefore set my sights on heaven and rise to the heights of my potential in Him that gives me the grace and strength needed to do His Will. Great are the rewards indeed for which I do not personally seek. Amen.

FIRST READING
Isaiah 7:10–14

GOSPEL
Luke 1:26–38

In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his Kingdom there will be no end.”

But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.”

Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.

O God You are faithful to all people who love You and follow Your decrees.  You shower them with Your love and reward them abundantly.

Let not our human limitations and perspectives mar our vision of Your limitless strength, deepest love, infinite goodness and greatness O Lord our God. For that which might be impossible for us are possible for and through You.  All we ever need do is be faithful to Your Word and Your Will for us. And we will bear witness to Your Glory. Amen

FIRST READING
Judges 13:2–7, 24–25a

GOSPEL
Luke 1:5–25

In the days of Herod, King of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah of the priestly division of Abijah; his wife was from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. Both were righteous in the eyes of God, observing all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren and both were advanced in years.

Once when he was serving as priest in his division’s turn before God, according to the practice of the priestly service, he was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord to burn incense. Then, when the whole assembly of the people was praying outside at the hour of the incense offering, the angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right of the altar of incense. Zechariah was troubled by what he saw, and fear came upon him.

But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, because your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He will drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s womb, and he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah to turn the hearts of fathers toward children and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous, to prepare a people fit for the Lord.”

Then Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” And the angel said to him in reply, “I am Gabriel, who stand before God. I was sent to speak to you and to announce to you this good news. But now you will be speechless and unable to talk until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled at their proper time.” Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah and were amazed that he stayed so long in the sanctuary. But when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the sanctuary. He was gesturing to them but remained mute.

Then, when his days of ministry were completed, he went home.

After this time his wife Elizabeth conceived, and she went into seclusion for five months, saying, “So has the Lord done for me at a time when he has seen fit to take away my disgrace before others.”

O Lord my God, You are faithful to Your children. You keep all Your promises.

Why do we need to seek justice? Why do we seek peace and love? Why do we seek comfort? Why do we seek recognition? Why do we seek health and wealth? When all we will ever need comes from You..

Let us seek only to do Your Will, my God and to embrace Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in all things. By the loving example of Saint Joseph and Mother Mary, let us prepare room in our hearts for Jesus. Let us rejoice as we cry out with joy, “Emmanuel! who dwells in our hearts!” Amen.

FIRST READING
Jeremiah 23:5–8

GOSPEL
Matthew 1:18–25

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

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

which means “God is with us.” When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home. He had no relations with her until she bore a son, and he named him Jesus.

O God, today we are reminded of Your call to be priest, prophet and King for our families as well as our brethren. To lead honorable, holy lives of peace and justice. To minister to Your people by living Your Word and bringing it to them.

Throughout salvation history You called on Saints and Sinners alike to do Your Will so that we can learn by their example of how we can peservere and turn our lives around in response to Your call to holiness.

You O heavenly Father, loved us so much that You sent Your most precious gift of love to us. Your Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. So that we have hope of living eternal life with You. All thanks, all glory be to You God our Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen

FIRST READING
Genesis 49:2, 8–10

GOSPEL
Matthew 1:1–17

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.

Abraham became the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers. Judah became the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar. Perez became the father of Hezron, Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab. Amminadab became the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon, Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab. Boaz became the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth. Obed became the father of Jesse, Jesse the father of David the king.

David became the father of Solomon, whose mother had been the wife of Uriah. Solomon became the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asaph. Asaph became the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, Joram the father of Uzziah. Uzziah became the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah. Hezekiah became the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amos, Amos the father of Josiah. Josiah became the father of Jechoniah and his brothers at the time of the Babylonian exile.

After the Babylonian exile, Jechoniah became the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, Zerubbabel the father of Abiud. Abiud became the father of Eliakim, Eliakim the father of Azor, Azor the father of Zadok. Zadok became the father of Achim, Achim the father of Eliud, Eliud the father of Eleazar. Eleazar became the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.

Thus the total number of generations from Abraham to David is fourteen generations; from David to the Babylonian exile, fourteen generations; from the Babylonian exile to the Christ, fourteen generations.

Without truth in our hearts we will not recognise the truth when we see it. We are blinded by our own ability, power and might that we recognise not the beauty and splendour of God, His creations and gifts all around us. We do not see God as a loving Father let alone King of our hearts, nor do we seek a loving relationship. Instead we may see a distortion in which God is Wrath and to be obeyed and avoided wherever possible.

In our service to the Church while we may not openly question the authority of the Church, it’s priests or leaders we often grow disillusioned, dissatisfied even resentful when we disagree.  We may even begin to draw lines on what we will do and not do. Love and service results in being disjointed.

Lord Jesus You are the Truth, the life, and the way; let us always stay focussed on You so that we may continue to be instruments of Your love for others. Make us know Your ways O Lord and teach us Your paths. Amen.

FIRST READING
Numbers 24:2–7, 15–17a

GOSPEL
Matthew 21:23–27

When Jesus had come into the temple area, the chief priests and the elders of the people approached him as he was teaching and said, “By what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you this authority?” Jesus said to them in reply, “I shall ask you one question, and if you answer it for me, then I shall tell you by what authority I do these things. Where was John’s baptism from? Was it of heavenly or of human origin?” They discussed this among themselves and said, “If we say ‘Of heavenly origin,’ he will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ we fear the crowd, for they all regard John as a prophet.” So they said to Jesus in reply, “We do not know.” He himself said to them, “Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things.”

Time and time again from days of old to days present, You O Lord my God sent prophets, priests, men and women to bring the message of hope and salvation to Your children. The call to turn away from sin and to be faithful to You and Your Word for us. Were we listening? Are we listening now?

Let our hearts not be hardened but filled with Your love. So that we may take up our cross to follow You, and pave the narrow path for ourselves and for all as we herald the news of Your imminent return. Let the obstacles and trials that come our way be a form of penance for us as we offer them up and embrace them for purification and growth. We rest assured that You are with us every step of the way. Amen

FIRST READING
Sirach 48:1–4, 9–11

GOSPEL
Matthew 17:9a, 10–13

As they were coming down from the mountain, the disciples asked Jesus, “Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” He said in reply, “Elijah will indeed come and restore all things; but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him but did to him whatever they pleased. So also will the Son of Man suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them of John the Baptist.

Fruitful and loving lives is what You desire for us O God and all that we ever need to do is to follow Your direction for us.  Why are we so weak? Why do we continue to listen to our own voice or voices of the world? Instead of embracing Your laws which are safeguards for our peace and joy, we often view them as obstacles and restrictions to our own view of ‘happiness’.

Lord Jesus You came to free us from our sinful lives, help us overcome the temptations to sin and to fall back into sin. Give us wisdom to seek out the truth which is to be found only in You. Help us to remain faithful, we ask this in Your most precious name. Amen

First Reading       Isaiah 48:17–19

 GOSPEL

Matthew 11:16–19
16 “But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the market places and calling to their playmates, 17 ‘We piped to you, and you did not dance;
we wailed, and you did not mourn.’ 18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon’; 19 the Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Behold, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.”

Why do I think I can hide from anything You my Lord, my God? You who see all and know all. Like a child who has done wrong, I am ashamed and instinctively choose to deny, justify or even make light of my wrongdoings.  How can I continue to look upon You in human terms? In my human understanding of things? When things go very wrong in my life, I often say that You were absent or if only God knew the injustice that has been done.   But it was I who turned my back from You, Who were waiting patiently for me to return to You. To embrace me with Your love to renew me with Your strength.

Has sin closed my ears shut once again? Have I been made blind? Has the weight of the world fallen on my shoulders that I am paralysed? Still I hear Your sweet loving, penetrating call to me Lord Jesus, “Come to me all you who labour and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” Such loving tenderness offered to me even when I am truly not worthy.

Yes Lord Jesus, I am here, I come before You sinful and sorrowful. Wash me clean that I may be renewed in Your loving care. I gladly take Your yoke upon myself to work for Your kingdom, for Your glory. For I am whole when I am with You and You with me, I am complete, I shall not want. Amen

FIRST READING
Isaiah 40:25–31

GOSPEL
Matthew 11:28–30

Jesus said to the crowds:
“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”

Thank You sweet Jesus for coming to our rescue. For seeking us out when we are lost. For bringing us back home where we belong with You.

Thank You heavenly Father for Your great love for us. When we turn back to You; in Your loving mercy You wipe us clean leaving no trace of our transgressions, our heinous sins.

Thank You Holy Spirit for teaching us and guiding us on the eternal Word of God. Thank You for steering us away from sin. Thank You for filling us with the grace needed to walk the narrow path in the light of our Saviour. For enabling us to share our faith with others.

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

FIRST READING
Isaiah 40:1–11

GOSPEL
Matthew 18:12–14

Jesus said to his disciples:
“What is your opinion?
If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety–nine in the hills and go in search of the stray? And if he finds it, amen, I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety–nine that did not stray. In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost.”

In Your wisdom, mercy and love Lord, You gave us Your mother to love honour and cherish. Who will love us as her own, be with us in our need and lovingly intercede for us.

Yet many take this truths for granted or reject them in part or whole. Born without the stain of original sin through Your loving Grace O Lord our God, You gave Mary our mother a choice to bear Your Son our Lord and Saviour. Though she still could choose to sin, she chose instead a life of purity worthy of You. Her self giving yes was the spark which would lead to our restoration.

In the traditions and the culture she was born into, it is easy to recognise her role You had for her thereafter. She was and is to be a Queen Mother, to sit by her son in honour and to intercede on behalf of the people. Especially the needy the poor, the infirmed.

We thank you heavenly Father for Mary our mother. She is so loving, so thoughtful and so kind. She is a role model for us for all time.

Dearest mother, we love you and want to honour you by being obedient to Your Son. We ask you to continue to intercede for us Obtain for us the gifts of the Holy Spirit that we may be wise with your wisdom,understand with your understanding,know with your knowledge,prudent with your prudence,patient with your patience,courageous with your fortitude and desire justice ardently for everyone with the all consuming desire of the Sacred Heart of Jesus your son. Amen

Solemnity of The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

GOSPEL
Luke 1:26 –38

The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his Kingdom there will be no end.” But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.

I used to take my faith for granted Lord, content just to be baptized, to be a namesake Christian, not growing in the knowledge of You nor bearing fruit worthy of You.

Then I asked myself, what if I never knew about You? What would life be without You? Then I opened my eyes and looked around in the world to see that there are many who are depressed, who are without hope, who are suffering alone in poverty, sickness and old age.

Some have hope because others though not many have responded to Your call. To love and serve their brethren in Your name. Let me do likewise Lord, lead me and show me the way. Fill me with the necessary Graces and strength to do Your Will. Amen

FIRST READING
Isaiah 30:19–21, 23–26

GOSPEL
Matthew 9:35B10:1, 5a, 6–8

Jesus went around to all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom, and curing every disease and illness. At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, AThe harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.”

Then he summoned his Twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits to drive them out and to cure every disease and every illness.

Jesus sent out these Twelve after instructing them thus, “Go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.”

Today Lord I pray for the conversion of sinners.

Barren still are we who lead self sufficient lives for without You, our lives remain unfulfilled. Some grope in darkness in search of peace of mind, while others search relentlessly for happiness. Liberate us Lord from the snares of evil. Open our eyes Lord have pity on us. In Your mercy Lord Heal our afflictions.

We cry out in faith to You our Lord and Saviour. You are our light, our salvation. Grant our contrite hearts Your peace and love. Let us lead fruitful loving lives as we strengthen one another by our faith in You. Let us bring Glory to the Father, to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Amen

FIRST READING
Isaiah 29:17–24

GOSPEL
Matthew 9:27–31

As Jesus passed by, two blind men followed him, crying out, “Son of David, have pity on us!” When he entered the house, the blind men approached him and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I can do this?” “Yes, Lord,” they said to him. Then he touched their eyes and said, “Let it be done for you according to your faith.” And their eyes were opened. Jesus warned them sternly, “See that no one knows about this.” But they went out and spread word of him through all that land.

I am proud indeed Lord to be a child of God but let me not be prideful; especially with my fellow man. By Your example let me always choose to serve and not to be served.

Great is my daily temptation to fall into sin, let Your mighty rampart shield me. Let me build upon You my rock! Let Your daily Word be the ever growing foundation on which I build my home.

Have mercy on me when I am weak Lord and fall short. It is only through You that I draw my strength, help me overcome the odds I may face. Let me always stand ready to act according to Your Will.

Let me never lose You my Lord my God, I place all my trust in You. Be my Shepherd and my guide as I do likewise for my brethren. Amen

FIRST READING
Isaiah 26:1–6

GOSPEL
Matthew 7:21, 24–27

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven.

“Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock. And everyone who listens to these words of mine but does not act on them will be like a fool who built his house on sand. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. And it collapsed and was completely ruined.”

How great art thou! My Lord and my God, and how great indeed is Your love for us. That we who long to be You, will one day feast in Your presence.

Lord Jesus what is man or woman that You care so much for us? We are a broken people and yet You have come to mend, to make us whole. We are blind and deaf to Your Will. And yet You patiently wait to restore our sight and our hearing. We are captives of our design and device. And still You are at hand to set us free. We are a spiteful and arrogant bunch. And yet You humbled yourself upon a cross for us. And in our hunger for all that is good, You give of yourself that we may eat and live an eternal life with You.

How great art thou! My Lord and my God, and how great indeed is Your love for us. Amen

FIRST READING
Isaiah 25:6–10a

GOSPEL
Matthew 15:29–37

At that time:
Jesus walked by the Sea of Galilee, went up on the mountain, and sat down there. Great crowds came to him, having with them the lame, the blind, the deformed, the mute, and many others. They placed them at his feet, and he cured them. The crowds were amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the deformed made whole, the lame walking, and the blind able to see, and they glorified the God of Israel.

Jesus summoned his disciples and said, “My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, for they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, for fear they may collapse on the way.” The disciples said to him, “Where could we ever get enough bread in this deserted place to satisfy such a crowd?” Jesus said to them, “How many loaves do you have?” “Seven,” they replied, “and a few fish.” He ordered the crowd to sit down on the ground. Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, gave thanks, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied. They picked up the fragments left over–seven baskets full.

Dear Lord it had never occurred to me to think about just how much we lost when sin came into the world. The peace and harmony our loving God intended for us. Between God our Father and us, man and woman, us and nature.

How sin blinds the intellect to see what isn’t and to shun the truth that is. How we use arithmetic to conclude that 1+1+1 equals 3 and others use the same equation to denounce the Holy Trinity instead of allowing our Loving Father who gave us arithmetic in the first place to guide us into a deeper truth and understanding.

Thank You Abba, Father for the most precious gift of Your Son Jesus Christ who restores what was lost.

Sweet Jesus by Your love, life, death and resurrection ; You draw all us sinners to yourself that we may live. Through the Holy Spirit let us always respond to Your call. Open our hearts and minds so that we may always see and hear Your Word and Your Will for us. Amen

FIRST READING
Isaiah 11:1–10

GOSPEL
Luke 10:21–24

Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said,
“I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him.”

Turning to the disciples in private he said, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I say to you, many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it.”

How do I heed Your gentle call to go to Your mountain O Lord my God? When I stand on my very own mountain of security built on the foundation of pride and the ways of the world.

How many disputes and wars have been fought in this world over mountains such as mine? O if we would only listen and harden not our hearts, we will surely have peace and love in this world. For in You we are made whole and shall not want.

Bless me Lord Jesus with the faith of the centurion that I may bring glory to Your name. Let my faith inspire others to grow in the knowledge of You. That You may reign in their hearts so as to be filled with Your love. And together we will strive to build Your Kingdom as we await our heavenly inheritance. Amen

FIRST READING
Isaiah 2:1–5

GOSPEL
Matthew 8:5–11

When Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion approached him and appealed to him, saying, “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully.” He said to him, “I will come and cure him.” The centurion said in reply, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed. For I too am a man subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come here,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, “Amen, I say to you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith. I say to you, many will come from the east and the west, and will recline with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the banquet in the Kingdom of heaven.”

So many people in this world live lives without hope, they are depressed, stressed and even with family and friends, they are lonely. Others who have sickness befall them, are afraid of dying. Then there are others angry with everything and everyone. All these people have one thing in common, they do not know You Lord. They have not encountered the living and loving God.

Like St Andrew, I am responding to Your call to follow You. Let me bring the life giving knowledge of You to all. Let Your peace and love flow through me so that by bringing them Your Word; their lives will be filled with Your joy and peace. In Your most precious name Jesus. I pray. Amen

FIRST READING
Romans 10:9–18

GOSPEL
Matthew 4:18–22

As Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew, casting a net into the sea; they were fishermen. He said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him. He walked along from there and saw two other brothers, James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They were in a boat, with their father Zebedee, mending their nets. He called them, and immediately they left their boat and their father and followed him.

Praise be our Lord Jesus Christ, the alpha and the omega. Who was, Who is and Who is yet to come. Let our hearts be opened and ready. Let us remain stedfast in prayer as we prepare ourselves to receive Him.

O Lord my God Your everlasting Word and Will be done. Amen

FIRST READING
Daniel 7:2–14

GOSPEL
Luke 21:29–33

Jesus told his disciples a parable. “Consider the fig tree and all the other trees. When their buds burst open, you see for yourselves and know that summer is now near; in the same way, when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near. Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.”

Although not apparent Your Word for Your faithful today is of hope, love and salvation.

Through our steadfast prayers and communion with our heavenly Father we are assured that nothing and no one can separate us from the love of God our Father. His loving embrace shelters us from harm.

Lord Jesus, great is Your Love for us that in times of great distress trials and tribulations, You are at hand to guide Your faithful to safety. And should we have an opportunity to lay down our lives for Your glory or for our brethren; we are assured of eternal life with You. Amen

FIRST READING
Daniel 6:12–28

GOSPEL
Luke 21:20–28

Jesus said to his disciples:
“When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, know that its desolation is at hand. Then those in Judea must flee to the mountains. Let those within the city escape from it, and let those in the countryside not enter the city, for these days are the time of punishment when all the Scriptures are fulfilled. Woe to pregnant women and nursing mothers in those days, for a terrible calamity will come upon the earth and a wrathful judgment upon this people. They will fall by the edge of the sword and be taken as captives to all the Gentiles; and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.

“There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.”

To live in this world Lord, is a daily struggle for us. For Your ways are not of this world. This world teaches us that more is less and that is why we cannot get or want enough. We are never satisfied.

It teaches us that it is better to be feared then to be loved and that is why even today we have dictators instead of leaders.

It teaches us that less is more in terms of modesty and so those who have listened have made themselves objects to be gawked at.

Of the many lessons it insists on having us learn is that there is no God! If there is a God how can He/She allow evil in this world. Live according to your own conscience.

We end up having more unanswered questions…. like where does this ‘conscience’ originates from or how it ought to be formed? Why does good wine taste better in a glass than in a plastic cup? Why would it taste even better if drunk from a silver or gold goblet? Why do most steal looks when looking upon immodesty? Why the need to hide or be ashamed for looking at pornography? Why does it play on our minds when we say no to the poor or needy? What is lost or do we even lose anything when we stop asking these questions?

You came into this world to save us and show us the way…..

You O Lord my God are the Way, the Truth. You are our light, You give life, You make all things new! O wash me clean that I may be white as snow. I renounce my way of life in this world. Give me courage and strength to take up my cross and follow You always. Amen

FIRST READING
Daniel 5:1–6, 13–14, 16–17, 23–28

GOSPEL
Luke 21:12–19

Jesus said to the crowd:
“They will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

Today Lord as I reflect upon Your Word, I marvel at the courage and zeal of Daniel in speaking Your truths and Your Word. Let me do likewise I pray…

Nothing in this world lasts forever, but we have confidence that Your Holy Church You established and built upon Your rock will. Let me always love and cherish this gift of ours and to keep in mind what it means to be Church; a part and yet whole. Let me strive to build Your Kingdom here on earth.

We need not fret or worry for even if this world passes away, You O Lord are the resurrection, our hope and our salvation. Through You we have eternal life, great indeed is Your Love for us. Let me never take Your love for granted and may I always endeavour to turn away from sin and be faithful to Your Word and Will. Amen

FIRST READING
Daniel 2:31–45

GOSPEL
Luke 21:5–11

While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, “All that you see here– the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.”

Then they asked him, “Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?” He answered, “See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and ‘The time has come.’ Do not follow them! When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end.” Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.”

Fear often rules our hearts and so we become selfish and hoard what we can. ‘Drink and make merry for tomorrow we die’ we often chant. And die we will indeed since merrymaking is our goal. God is far from our minds in this endeavour.

But for those who choose the narrow path to be rightful children of our loving Father, God Almighty. He provides for and we shall never want. All wisdom, skills, knowledge and talents comes from Him. And when we give Him all that we are and all that we have, as dutiful servants do. His overflowing love and blessings falls upon us and we are content just to be in His presence.

Lord Jesus take away my sin that binds me to this world. Let me be free to love and serve my God in all things and in all

FIRST READING
Daniel 1:1–6, 8–20

GOSPEL
Luke 21:1–4

When Jesus looked up he saw some wealthy people putting their offerings into the treasury and he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. He said, “I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.”

This morning Lord, I examine my conscience and my life. What evil have I done or spoken? How many spirits of people have I slain by my actions or words? Have I made amends? Have I been repentant? Have I come before You Lord with a contrite Spirit and heart?
Lord Jesus make me worthy to live a new life with and in You. I want to sing praises to my living God for now and for all time. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Maccabees 6:1–13

GOSPEL
Luke 20:27–40

Some Sadducees, those who deny that there is a resurrection, came forward and put this question to Jesus, saying, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us,
If someone’s brother dies leaving a wife but no child, his brother must take the wife and raise up descendants for his brother.
Now there were seven brothers; the first married a woman but died childless. Then the second and the third married her, and likewise all the seven died childless. Finally the woman also died. Now at the resurrection whose wife will that woman be? For all seven had been married to her.” Jesus said to them, “The children of this age marry and remarry; but those who are deemed worthy to attain to the coming age and to the resurrection of the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. They can no longer die, for they are like angels; and they are the children of God because they are the ones who will rise. That the dead will rise even Moses made known in the passage about the bush, when he called ‘Lord’ the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob; and he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive.” Some of the scribes said in reply, “Teacher, you have answered well.” And they no longer dared to ask him anything.

Some Lord Jesus, will go through great lengths to prepare themselves for Holy Eucharist. And like many others I too would question why? Why so ritualistic? Does it really matter to God? Isn’t it some form of misaligned piety?

But I was asking the wrong questions… I instead should have been asking these….

How do I act or behave in worship before our Lord and King? Does not the outward reflect what’s inward? How do I dress in honour of someone I love at a wedding banquet? What kind of spirit and heart must I have within to reflect my love for my God? Is my body a worthy vessel to receive a love so pure? Have I come longing and attentively to hear His loving Word for me or to be easily distracted because I had not come prepared? Have I come like a thief to take what is not mine or have I come worthily and prepared to receive my heavenly inheritance?

Harden not my heart, my Lord, my God! Let me always come before You with a contrite heart and spirit. Let me always praise, honour, love and glorify You in all that I say and do. Amen

Thank You dear Jesus for giving us our one Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Maccabees 4:36–37, 52–59

GOSPEL
Luke 19:45–48

Jesus entered the temple area and proceeded to drive out those who were selling things, saying to them, “It is written, My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves.” And every day he was teaching in the temple area. The chief priests, the scribes, and the leaders of the people, meanwhile, were seeking to put him to death, but they could find no way to accomplish their purpose because all the people were hanging on his words.

Oh how I wish I had such zeal for Your Word O Lord! That I may always turn away from sin and never take shortcuts, cut corners or hide my faith from others for fear of offending them. Oh Lord have mercy on me for my weaknesses.

Lord Jesus, You alone can give us strength! Your love for us is so great that You weep for us when we stray. Help and guide us back when we lose our way. And keep us faithful with a burning desire to always follow our Father’s Will for us. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Maccabees 2:15–29

GOSPEL
Luke 19:41–44

As Jesus drew near Jerusalem, he saw the city and wept over it, saying, “If this day you only knew what makes for peace– but now it is hidden from your eyes. For the days are coming upon you when your enemies will raise a palisade against you; they will encircle you and hem you in on all sides. They will smash you to the ground and your children within you, and they will not leave one stone upon another within you because you did not recognize the time of your visitation.”

Oh what foundation have we laid in Your love Lord that we can withstand all adversity? We take the faith You have given us for granted and spend far too little time if any, nurturing it for growth.

All that grows rampant are weeds! And so when trials come our way we grasp and cling to what little faith we have and soon all is lost.

When will we learn that our qualifications, education, personal achievements, wealth, skills, talents, our very lives counts for nothing lest our foundation is laid upon You Lord?

Everything we have comes from You and when we put to use what You have given for Your glory, we are blessed to bear witness to the tenfold fruits of our labour. The more we receive, the more we are able to give and the more we receive yet again. All in peace, love, joy; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen

FIRST READING
2 Maccabees 7:1, 20–31

GOSPEL
Luke 19:11–28

While people were listening to Jesus speak, he proceeded to tell a parable because he was near Jerusalem and they thought that the Kingdom of God would appear there immediately. So he said, “A nobleman went off to a distant country to obtain the kingship for himself and then to return. He called ten of his servants and gave them ten gold coins and told them, ‘Engage in trade with these until I return.’ His fellow citizens, however, despised him and sent a delegation after him to announce, ‘We do not want this man to be our king.’ But when he returned after obtaining the kingship, he had the servants called, to whom he had given the money, to learn what they had gained by trading. The first came forward and said, ‘Sir, your gold coin has earned ten additional ones.’ He replied, ‘Well done, good servant! You have been faithful in this very small matter; take charge of ten cities.’ Then the second came and reported, ‘Your gold coin, sir, has earned five more.’ And to this servant too he said, ‘You, take charge of five cities.’ Then the other servant came and said, ‘Sir, here is your gold coin; I kept it stored away in a handkerchief, for I was afraid of you, because you are a demanding man; you take up what you did not lay down and you harvest what you did not plant.’ He said to him, ‘With your own words I shall condemn you, you wicked servant. You knew I was a demanding man, taking up what I did not lay down and harvesting what I did not plant; why did you not put my money in a bank? Then on my return I would have collected it with interest.’ And to those standing by he said, ‘Take the gold coin from him and give it to the servant who has ten.’ But they said to him, ‘Sir, he has ten gold coins.’ He replied, ‘I tell you, to everyone who has, more will be given, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. Now as for those enemies of mine who did not want me as their king, bring them here and slay them before me.’”

After he had said this, he proceeded on his journey up to Jerusalem.

While our bodies age and wither there is sometimes a disconnect; for our minds remain young, childlike at times, childish in others.

Without growing in the faith and love of knowing You Lord, we fight, bite, claw, plead, do anything to hold on to this life; the only life we know. We have no knowledge or understanding of eternal life with our Father.

What we possess is a superficial and shallow love and understanding of all that is You. We do not strive to learn or do more thereby losing our rightful claim as children of God.

Praise be our ever loving God! So long as we have a longing, a desire to seek You Lord Jesus. You will come and call on us out from among the crowd. And our Yes is the start of our transformation, a wonderful adventure in Your love begins.

We are given the opportunity to right what was wrong in our lives. To grow in holiness and love. To be beacons for our families, for our friends, for our community, for the world.

You indeed make all things new Lord Jesus, You are our salvation! Glory be to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen

FIRST READING
2 Maccabees 6:18–31

GOSPEL
Luke 19:1–10

At that time Jesus came to Jericho and intended to pass through the town. Now a man there named Zacchaeus, who was a chief tax collector and also a wealthy man, was seeking to see who Jesus was; but he could not see him because of the crowd, for he was short in stature. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree in order to see Jesus, who was about to pass that way. When he reached the place, Jesus looked up and said, “Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house.” And he came down quickly and received him with joy. When they saw this, they began to grumble, saying, “He has gone to stay at the house of a sinner.” But Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, “Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over.” And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost.”

The lure of the world rages on! Bright lights, colourful advertisements, shapely barely covered bodies call out to lead glamorous carefree lives! Out with the old! In with the new! More bright blinding colourful lights! Loud music and crowds chanting drink! Drink! Drink! Drink in life!

But I O Lord want to remain steadfast in Your love! Hear me cry out to You O Lord! I will not allow the crowds to silence me, for all I’ll ever want or need is You. Keep my eyes open and affixed on Your glorious face my Lord, my God. Let me always walk in Your light and lead others unto the same path. That we may sing praise and glory to You O Lord! Forever and ever. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Maccabees 1:10–15, 41–43, 54–57, 62–63

GOSPEL
Luke 18:35–43

As Jesus approached Jericho a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging, and hearing a crowd going by, he inquired what was happening. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” He shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!” The people walking in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent, but he kept calling out all the more, “Son of David, have pity on me!” Then Jesus stopped and ordered that he be brought to him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” He replied, “Lord, please let me see.” Jesus told him, “Have sight; your faith has saved you.” He immediately received his sight and followed him, giving glory to God. When they saw this, all the people gave praise to God.

Thank You Lord Jesus for reminding us this day that our heavenly Father is with us always. And that the prayers of our hearts are always heard. The Word of God speaks to us always, if only we would open our hearts to hear Him. He is always there, even in our darkest moments, if only we have a little faith.

We give You Thanks and praise this day our loving Father and all the days of our life, now and forever Amen

FIRST READING
Wisdom 18:14–16; 19:6–9

GOSPEL
Luke 18:1–8

Jesus told his disciples a parable about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary. He said, “There was a judge in a certain town who neither feared God nor respected any human being. And a widow in that town used to come to him and say, ‘Render a just decision for me against my adversary.’ For a long time the judge was unwilling, but eventually he thought, ‘While it is true that I neither fear God nor respect any human being, because this widow keeps bothering me I shall deliver a just decision for her lest she finally come and strike me.’” The Lord said, “Pay attention to what the dishonest judge says. Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night? Will he be slow to answer them? I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily. But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”