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The Lord speaks to us of the day of final judgement, we do not and will not know when, are we prepared? Some of us may have tomorrow and more tomorrows, while some of us may not have a tomorrow…. have we made used of the gifts and talents bestowed upon us for the Glory of God our Father?

Have we been loving, lukewarm or distant and even suspicious of others? When we chance upon a needy, helpless person, do we offer our assistance and do all we can to help or do we tell ourselves someone else more qualified, more able will be available? Do we shrug and say I don’t know what to do or what can I do instead of trying? Do we offer prayers instead of a loaf to the hungry?

For unborn children, do we reject the gift from God? For the very young, do we clothe, feed and care for them when they are sick? Do we teach, counsel and guide them? Do we help bring joy to them when there is sadness and despair? Or do we abuse them, curse and are impatient with them?

Are we truly disciples of Jesus? When He walked the earth, He was loving, merciful and kind to all, Jews and Gentiles alike. Are we the same way? Are we holy as our Heavenly Father is holy?

Let us pray…

O God of love and mercy, You sent Your own Son to live among us and die for us, when we were trapped in the ways of sin and death. Through this season of Lent, set your people free from our selfish ways to live Your law of love as disciples of Jesus our Lord. Amen

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.”

 
Jesus is inviting all of us to follow Him, what is your response?  He does not demand that we repent first, He does not place conditions, instead He simply asks that we walk with Him. He seeks our companionship, He seeks to heal us, to fill us with His love. He has come to honour us with His presence, do we honour Him by our Yes? On our journey with Him, we are forgiven, we are made whole for we have heeded His call to repentance. Let us reach out to Him and cry out, “Here I am Lord, I want to follow you. * Amen

Gospel
Luke 5:27-32

Jesus noticed a tax collector, Levi by name, sitting by the customs house, and said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And leaving everything he got up and followed him.
In his honour Levi held a great reception in his house, and with them at table was a large gathering of tax collectors and others. The Pharisees and their scribes complained to his disciples and said, ‘Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?’ Jesus said to them in reply, ‘It is not those who are well who need the doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the virtuous, but sinners to repentance.’

Do week seek Jesus to counsel us for our lack of understanding? Do we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us? Or do we sow discord by own interpretation or understanding of scripture and the teachings of our Holy Church?

Why do we fast? If we fast at all? To observe the lenten discipline? Or do we fast out of love for that which is divine? To empty ourselves of our worldliness. As a penance for our sins, for what we have done and what we have failed to do. To truly taste humility of body and mind. To hunger for the Word which truly satisfies. To share a taste of what our poor sisters and brothers experience on a daily basis. To strengthen ourselves against all temptations. To allow our Heavenly Father to fill us with His grace and blessings. So that at the end of our lenten journey we can truly experience the joy of our risen bridegroom, our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ.

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.”

How strange indeed that the battle cry of our Lord is a gentle promise of suffering and human rejection. Yet His cross reigns victorious!  His cross has redeemed us! Have we taken the time to reflect on what this means for us? How great His love for us?

What is our daily cross? The true cross that will lead us to the heavenly Kingdom? Is it our physical aches and pains? Is it our mental fatigue or stress? Or is it rather our daily struggle to turn sin and temptation away. To be faithful to the Gospels. To love someone hard to love. To forgive in spite of our reluctance. To serve the Lord by serving His people. To care for those who cannot care for themselves. To be ridiculed and laughed at while trying to share the Good News and Jesus with others. To give up the cares of the world and stay focused on the narrow path to the kingdom of God our Father…. Are these not what makes up the cross we are to carry?

Let us pray….

Jesus, my Lord my God, thank you for coming to ransom me with your own life. I love you, I worship you, I trust you. I give myself over to you, to be one with you in all things. I now take my place in your cross and death, through which I have died with you to sin, to my flesh, to the world, and to the evil one. I take up the cross and crucify my flesh with all its pride, arrogance, unbelief, and idolatry and all temptations that keep me from you. I ask you to apply to me the fullness of your cross, death, blood and sacrifice. I receive it with thanks and give it total claim to my spirit, soul and body, my heart, mind and will. Amen

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?”

Do we need the recognition, praise or blessings of our fellow brothers and sisters for doing good works and for our giving to charity? Do we not need the recognition, praise and blessings of God instead? Have we not realised that our vainglory results in a big zero in the heavenly scheme of things?

What is our intention when we pray or fast? Should not our piety to God be for God alone? Why would we want to rob ourselves of the graces and blessings from God when we pray and fast to parade before others, just how holy and pious we are?

Let us pray…..

Dearest sweet Jesus, I begin this Lenten journey by emptying myself of all that is worldly. By my fast let me hunger for your Word and thirst for your Living Water for I know you will fill me up with these. By my good works and charity, teach me humility and let me share in the poverty of others for I know you will provide all that is needed. By my prayers, let me hear your will for me so that I may serve you with all my heart and soul for I know you will always answer. Amen

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.”

When we are gathered together in the presence of Jesus, in the Eucharistic celebration or in a prayer meeting, do we remain prayerful and steadfast in His love or do we start squabbling and finding fault with one another or with others?

Do we scrutinise, judge and admonish others according to our own understanding or interpretation of Church laws?Do we carry ourselves in an authoritative manner or are domineering by acting aggressively?

Do we flaunt knowledge, or tell others what to do? Do we choose big, high sounding words and terms when sharing with others? Do we give leghthy and verbose sharing, robbing others opportunities to offer their thoughts and sharing? Do we instead exercise, love, compassion and charity when guiding others to the Truth?

God’s law and commandments are founded on and in love, so too are those handed down by the Catholic Church He founded. Our call to holiness is to live out the laws and commandments of our Heavenly Father, through our Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit in our love for Him and in our love and charity for one another. May His love burn brightly in our hearts as we reach out to others with that same love. Amen

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.”

Do we seek Jesus only for physical healing and neglect the healing for our souls? Do we seek Him only for our physical well being and needs and not for His word?

Do we care enough to do whatever it takes to tend to our sick, even carrying them at times to seek medical attention?

Jesus shows us today just how much He loves us.  He shows that we too should be touched by mercy and moved by love. Let us seek Him first in whatever we say and do so that, so that we too can be touched by mercy and moved by love for others. Amen

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.

How many of us serving our Lord, will return to the fountainhead? The streams that flow out and from within? To share with Him the very adventure in His love? To seek counsel? To share our joys, even our sorrows? To be refreshed? To give Him honour, thanks and praise?

Come to me, I will give you rest, says the Lord. Do we take our rest in Him from our labours of love? We serve Him best when we are rejuvenated in Him, do we ensure we set some quiet and away time to do this?

Do we set aside time to grow in the knowledge of our faith? To learn from Him? To hear His word? To enrich ourselves in His love? So that we too can be true Shepherds for others, to care for those hungry for His word, abandoned, lost. To love as He loves…

GOSPEL 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 he began to teach them many things.

How many of us serving our Lord, will return to the fountainhead? The streams that flow out and from within? To share with Him the very adventure in His love? To seek counsel? To share our joys, even our sorrows? To be refreshed? To give Him honour, thanks and praise?

Come to me, I will give you rest, says the Lord. Do we take our rest in Him from our labours of love? We serve Him best when we are rejuvenated in Him, do we ensure we set some quiet and away time to do this?

Do we set aside time to grow in the knowledge of our faith? To learn from Him? To hear His word? To enrich ourselves in His love? So that we too can be true Shepherds for others, to care for those hungry for His word, abandoned, lost. To love as He loves…

GOSPEL 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 he began to teach them many things.

Who is Jesus to and for me? Do I revere and honour Him as I should? Or is He like an abstract piece of art to be admired from afar? Do I hold Him close to me? Do I carry Him in my heart in everything I say and do? Have I died to myself and been risen in Christ?

Do I avoid the truth to maintain ‘peace’ and comfort? Do I live a lie in sin? Do I rationalise my actions? Am I not concerned that living a life by, in truth and in the Truth, proclaiming the truth, saves my soul and the souls of others?

Do I speak and act rashly as I live according to my desires, wants and deeds?

Do I live my life governed by the love of Christ? Do I love myself and others with that same love? Are my words and deeds a reflection of my love in Christ?

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.

How wonderful is the Word of God indeed!  Our Lord has called each and everyone of us to share His Word with all the nations, have we responded to that call today?

His Word, brings light upon darkness, makes pure that which is unclean, are we not eager to participate in the conversion of sinners by and through His Word? To give true hope where there is none? To bring joy where sadness prevails? To bring peace where there is turmoil?

Trust in the Lord our God! When we respond to His call, will He not provide what we need? Why do we worry about this and that? Has He ever failed us while we were on His mission? Never I tell you! Have faith! …

When we evangelise, we do so with love and charity, do not be upset if you face rejection or ridicule, do not carry the hurt with you.  Instead lift it up to the Lord and trust that He can turn any curse into blessing. All we are asked to do is plant His seed, He will do the rest.

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.

For those who have little or no faith, little or nothing can be done! Why do some not see Jesus for who He was, who He is and is to come?

How can we bring Jesus to others? Be Jesus for others? when we cannot see Jesus in others or in our very own selves?

Why do we continue to find fault in others even if there weren’t any to find to begin with? Do we question the Holy Spirit’s choice in men and women sent to us, for us, to speak, to act? Are we to judge them according to their past?

Let us pray….

God our Father, you conquer the darkness of ignorance by the light of your Word. Strengthen within our hearts the faith you have given us; let not temptation ever quench the fire that your love has kindled within us. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. AMEN

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 too proud to turn to Jesus for help? Or are we afraid, either because we have never sought Him in the past or too ashamed because of the lives we lead? Know that He loves us and is waiting for us to call on Him.

Our Lord who knows our every sin no matter how well hid, also knows our every need. Do we have faith that He will heal us? Do we have faith that He knows what is best for us?

Do we give Glory to God when we are healed? Do we offer praise and thanks? Do we know that the power of healing comes from Christ alone, whether through prayers, sacramentals, intercessions, relics, touch etc?

Do we overcome skepticism by our faith in Christ or do we allow it to lead us on an empty path? Do we try to pass on our skepticism to others? Jesus is real, touch Him by faith and you will see….

Death and sickness came into the world by our sins. But our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ has come to save and heal us, He has risen from the dead to show us that He too has power over death!

Let us pray…sweet Jesus my Lord, I hear you calling out to me; I want to rise from the death of my sins. I reach out my hand to you O Lord, heal me and wash me clean that I may unite my will to Yours and one day live in the room You have prepared for me. AMEN.

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.

If a demoniac with a multitude of unclean spirits can prostrate before the son of God most high, how can we do any less? Why do some of us continue to dress inappropriately at the Eucharistic celebration? Do we hide our irreverence behind words like God knows my heart? Do we gossip, talk and distract our brethren from prayer and participation, before, during and after the Eucharistic celebration while we are still in Church?

Physical restraints are useless when we are bound mentally and spiritually by our sins, why do we allow ourselves to be subject to them? Our many vices, lust, greed, rage, gluttony even unforgiveness keeps us enslaved, why not cry out to our Lord for help to break free? Evil cannot touch us if we are one in Christ, why do we choose to cross over? Why do we give in to our temptations for fleeting happiness or gratification? Do we not realise by now that the devil and his minions takes delight in our captivity? Terror to them is no longer being able to toy with us and take control of every aspect of our lives! Will we not fight against such evil?

There are times we witness good which can come out from evil only through the grace of God, do we ponder His mighty deed? Do we learn from it? Do we give praise and thanks? Or are we seized in fear instead?

We have all been given different gifts, talents and means to serve the Lord, but together as one we can give powerful testimony of God’s wonders, mercies and love in our very own lives. Glory be to the Father, to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be world without end. AMEN

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.

What can learn from today’s gospel?  Let us open our hearts and minds to see….

• The Holy Family was obedient on to God, they followed God’s call to consecrate Jesus who is the first born.  Mary underwent the prescribed purification ritual and then together with Joseph offered up the sacrifice.  We too can consecrate ourselves to Jesus and bring our daily/weekly sacrifice i.e. deeds of love, service etc. up to Him during the Eucharistic celebration. 
• If we lead Holy and righteous lives, like Simeon and Anna, we too may look upon the face of our Saviour Jesus Christ.
• We too can learn from Simeon and Anna, blessing, praising and worshipping God with all our heart and might.
• Mary our Mother knows our every need, our every desire, our every deed, how easily we tire.  Through her powerful intercession, the Holy Spirit will strengthen, guide and show us the way to the Truth, the Light and the Way, our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ. Blessed is our Mother indeed!

Let us pray….

On this day, Lord, Your mother, Mary and foster father, Joseph, presented You at the temple.  We celebrate Your presentation by lighting candles – reminding us that You are the light of the world.  I pray today that I never live a day without feeling the fire of Your love burning within my heart. Amen.

GOSPEL Luke 2:22–40

When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, Mary and Joseph took Jesus up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, just as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord, and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord. Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying: “Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in sight of all the peoples: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.” The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted —and you yourself a sword will pierce— so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” There was also 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.

You need endurance to do the will of God and receive what he has promised Heb 10:36

We are promised entry into the Kingdom of God, and all is needed is for us is to love! Love our God with all our heart, love one another and live our lives according to our Father’s plan for us which is always the best plan.  Is it that simple? Yes…..is it going to be hard work? Yes……will we need to suffer? Very likely as life is full of hardships and suffering…..will we go through it alone? No….Jesus is with us every step of the way…  Do we have such faith?

By the blood of Christ we are redeemed, the Word has planted His seed, His blood and water has made the soil fertile, how can we not bear fruit?

With, love, faith,  humility, patience, labour and striving to live a life of holiness, we will not only bear abundant fruit, we spread the joy, comfort and love to all around us. And more often than not, we bear witness to the fruits of others by the very seeds we helped to sow. How can we not use the gifts we have been given? How can we choose not to participate in our Father’s loving plan?

Let us cry out with one voice, “Here I am to serve Lord! Your Kingdom come, Your will be done.” Amen

Gospel
Mk 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.

Are we to be counted among the many eager to hear the word of God? Do we have that longing to receive the word, live the word and share the word?

God gives sight and understanding to those who seek for them, do we read the Gospels or hear it as it is read with an open mind and heart ordered towards God? Do we spend time reflecting on His word and His will for us spoken through it?  If we cannot hear or understand the word, do we examine our conscience? Our life choices? Do we realise that our sins hamper our  ability to listen and to live the word?

The fruits we bear are a result of our daily struggles to love, to sacrifice for, to listen and to live the Word. This can be seen in the numbers sown in others both directly and indirectly.  We are NOT called to convert others but only to sow the seed, so that God our Father can do the rest….Are we sowing as we should?

GOSPEL

Mark 4:1–20

1 Again he began to teach beside the sea. And a very large crowd gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat in it on the sea; and the whole crowd was beside the sea on the land. 2 And he taught them many things in parables, and in his teaching he said to them: 3 “Listen! A sower went out to sow. 4 And as he sowed, some seed fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured it. 5 Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it had not much soil, and immediately it sprang up, since it had no depth of soil; 6 and when the sun rose it was scorched, and since it had no root it withered away. 7 Other seed fell among thorns and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no grain. 8 And other seeds fell into good soil and brought forth grain, growing up and increasing and yielding thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.” 9 And he said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”
10 And when he was alone, those who were about him with the twelve asked him concerning the parables. 11 And he said to them, “To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables; 12 so that they may indeed see but not perceive, and may indeed hear but not understand; lest they should turn again, and be forgiven.” 13 And he said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables? 14 The sower sows the word. 15 And these are the ones along the path, where the word is sown; when they hear, Satan immediately comes and takes away the word which is sown in them. 16 And these in like manner are the ones sown upon rocky ground, who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy; 17 and they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while; then, when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately they fall away. 18 And others are the ones sown among thorns; they are those who hear the word, 19 but the cares of the world, and the delight in riches, and the desire for other things, enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. 20 But those that were sown upon the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.”

Do we spend time in prayer listening for what our Father wants for us? Do we shut our ears when the task seems daunting, exhausting or even appears impossible?

Do we truly understand what it means to be part of God’s family? Do we love and respect our fathers, mothers and siblings in Christ? Do we genuinely care for them?   Do we realise to be in God’s family means love and sacrifice on our part?

God’s family is where I and want to belong!

Let us pray…

Lord Jesus, in our weakness we often fall prey to our own wants and desires. Help us with your strength, teach us authentic love for our brothers and sisters. We ask this in Your precious name. Amen

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 mother 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.”

Are we not able to see the good in others? Do we need to find fault just to prove something?

Do we try everyday to be more loving at home? Showing respect for one another? Respecting one another? Respecting the privacy and little treasures of our family members? Always willing to serve before being served? Trying at all costs to maintain the peace at home?

Do we understand what it entails to blaspheme against the Holy Spirit? To blaspheme against the Holy Trinity? To remain unrepentant?  Impenitent? To say why bother when God cannot forgive me?

Let us cry out to the Lord our God, “Teach me your paths, my God, make me walk in your truth.” Amen

GOSPEL
Mark 3:22–30

22 And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He is possessed by Be-elzebul, and by the prince of demons he casts out the demons.” 23 And he called them to him, and said to them in parables, “How can Satan cast out Satan? 24 If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25 And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. 26 And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand, but is coming to an end. 27 But no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man; then indeed he may plunder his house.
28 “Truly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies they utter; 29 but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin”— 30 for they had said, “He has an unclean spirit.”

We are called to share the most wonderful news in our lifetime, the message of God’s love for us and our salvation! Why would such a fantastic message be so hard too share?  Ite ad evangelium domini nuntiandum ‘Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord’..

Know that when we go in Faith to do so, we too even to this day can bear witness to the power of the Lord that works through us. We see, signs, wonders and miracles from our Lord our God!

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.”

Jesus is Lord of all nations! He draws everyone to Him, the sick, the lonely, the oppressed, people with addictions, people hungry for the word….If non believers upon hearing the Good news can leave everything behind in search of Him, to be witness to Him, to be healed by Him. What does it say of us Christians who would not take the time to spend an hour with Him?

If unclean spirits who do not want to have anything to do with Jesus Christ our Lord acknowledges His sovereignty, His divinity by throwing themselves before Him and crying out His title. What does it say about us who would not bend a knee to Him? Who would not be reverent in body, mind, spirit and demeanour in His presence? Will not praise Him for all He has done for us? or even Call out His name?

Jesus strictly orders the unclean spirits not to make Him known! Can we preach the Good news of salvation or share our faith with others if we ourselves are not cleansed or made pure? Or strive daily to lead a Holy and righteous life?  How would you react if someone bears testimony to Christ our Lord then a while later you witness the same person in a fit of anger, screaming and shouting or curses under His/Her breath? Or instead openly flirts with another? Would you say they bear witness to the truth?

(Ps. 50:16) For God said to the sinner, Why do you preach my laws? A sinner is forbidden to preach the Lord, lest any one listening to his preaching should follow him in his error, for the devil is an evil master, who always mingles false things with true, that the semblance of truth may cover the witness of fraud…

Let us pray…..

Lord Jesus Christ, You who are the truth, the light and the way, have  mercy on us, cleanse us of our sins,  make us white as snow so that we may bear witness to You and Your truth. That we may be the light for others who live in darkness and teach transgressors your ways. We ask this in Your Holy name. Amen

GOSPEL
Mark 3:7–12

7 Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the sea, and a great multitude from Galilee followed; also from Judea 8 and Jerusalem and Idumea and from beyond the Jordan and from about Tyre and Sidon a great multitude, hearing all that he did, came to him. 9 And he told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, lest they should crush him; 10 for he had healed many, so that all who had diseases pressed upon him to touch him. 11 And whenever the unclean spirits beheld him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” 12 And he strictly ordered them not to make him known.

How difficult it must have been to stretch out a withered hand in response to our Lord’s call to do so, that he may be healed. Can we do the same?  Can we stretch out our hands to the Lord, raising all that which makes us incomplete? Our sins, our addictions, our hard heartedness?  So that we too may be healed?

Following God’s law without love in our hearts is an incomplete act of discipleship. May the Lord our God guard our souls so that our hearts may not be hardened. Amen

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.

Have we realised by now that God’s law and commandments are born out of love for us?

Are we so rigid and quick to ostracise others whom does not meet our standards or are known sinners? Do we try first no matter how difficult or impossible it may seem to reach out to them with love and prayers?

God’s love and promise of salvation was fulfilled in His Son our Lord and Saviour  Jesus Christ, let us share this love and promise of our living God with others. Amen

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.”

Are we mournful Catholics, sinful and sorrowful forgetting that we have been saved and should be giving thanksgiving, praise and Glory to God by our participation in the Eucharistic Celebration?

Do we not rejoice when the Holy Spirit moves us to?

Then again do we remember that when we sin, we should be making reparation for them by going for reconciliation, act/s of contrition by way of penance and at times even fasting?

Do we take on too much, trying too hard for our faith that we burst at the seams, experiencing burnout? Even losing our Faith a result? Do we listen to the Holy Spirit who guides us or are we moving by our own wisdom and strength?

Can we grow in our Faith or experience new heights if we hold on to old habits refusing to challenge ourselves to learn more and do more?

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.”

Jesus is calling all of us to be with Him, there is no sin too great that He will not forgive…..All we need to do is to respond to His call…Why do we still fear?

He is telling us to come as we are, in our brokenness, our sinfulness, He will embrace us as we are, in and with His love and transform us…What are we waiting for?

Do we look upon others, smokers? drug addicts? ruffians? uncouth teens? anyone else who does not fit into our view of righteous living or holiness….do we look upon them with contempt? Do we shy away from them? Do we keep our distance? Why are we not trying to reach out to them in love? The same love Jesus offers us?

GOSPEL
Mark 2:13–17

13 He went out again beside the sea; and all the crowd gathered about him, and he taught them. 14 And as he passed on, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax office, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him.
15 And as he sat at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners were sitting with Jesus and his disciples; for there were many who followed him. 16 And the scribes of the Pharisees, when they saw that he was eating with sinners and tax collectors, said to his disciples, “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 17 And when Jesus heard it, he said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”

“So that they should set their hope in God,
and not forget the works of God,
but keep his commandments” Psalm 78:7b

Do you look forward to listening to His word? Do you go early to Church to prepare yourselves to hear Him? Do you brave all inconveniences and obstacles just to be in His presence? Can we open the roof of our hearts to Him, lower ourselves to Him so that He can fill us with His love?

Christian community prayer is so powerful because when we pray as one, we are in union with our brothers and sisters in heaven praying to God our Father.  Hence our faith can lead to the healing of another and we all have in some one way or another been witness to this and yet have we forgotten?

Our deceitfulnes and lies can often wear us down, for we live in constant fear that others are doing likewise against us which then leads to stress and illnesses. Have we not learnt?  Sin paralyses us, forces us to remain in deluge and hopelessness, in time we drown in sorrow and anguish.   God alone can forgive sins, Jesus is God! He wants to free us from the bondage, our illnesses, why do we not *run* to Him?  Do we not know by now that all it takes is for our hearts to cry out to Him?

GOSPEL Mark 2:1–12

1 And when he returned to Caperna-um after some days, it was reported that he was at home. 2 And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and he was preaching the word to them. 3 And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. 4 And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and when they had made an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic lay. 5 And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “My son, your sins are forgiven.” 6 Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, 7 “Why does this man speak thus? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 8 And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they thus questioned within themselves, said to them, “Why do you question thus in your hearts? 9 Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your pallet and walk’? 10 But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic— 11 “I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home.” 12 And he rose, and immediately took up the pallet and went out before them all; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!”

Do we seek Jesus for our needs by putting ourselves before others?

In our sinfulness and disregard for others do we consider turning to Jesus for help to cleanse us?  Do we realise how much He loves us and is waiting for us to turn to Him?

Jesus tells us He did not come to replace the law but to fulfill it, do we follow the teachings of the Church He established? Do we go for the sacrament of reconciliation as often as we ought to?

Do we with grateful hearts, give Glory to God for all He has done as we rightfully should? Do we neglect the Holy Spirit’s commands to reverently do so and now let our hearts be carried away saying more than we should?

Do we limit our testimonies of God’s grace to His miracles and wonders forgetting the important joyful message of salvation?

“O that you would listen to my voice, harden not your hearts! “

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.

Through our prayers and intercessions for others, Jesus heals… Do we keep others in our prayers? Do have enough faith to pray over others?

Are we grateful when our Lord answers our prayers? Enough to serve our Him and others?
So often in the Gospels our Lord shows us He makes time no matter how gruelling His day to be in spiritual communion with His Father through prayer from whom He draws strength. Do we do likewise?

Do we remain in our comfort zone and only share our faith with those close to us? Or do we reach out to all?  Especially those in need and whom we do not yet know?

Let us pray….

Lord Jesus, you are the truth, the light and the way. Heal our wounded souls and bodies, especially those whom we pray for. We also  pray for wisdom and courage to share our faith with all who would listen and with whom we have yet to know, we ask this in Your Holy name. Amen

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.

‘He taught them as one having authority’

Do we acknowledge Jesus as our saviour and King? Do we revere Him by our thoughts, words and deeds?

We are commissioned to be priest, prophet and king for others by sharing the good news and living the word. Are we doing so in humility, love and holiness?

Evil is all around us, can exist even in places of worship. So long as we remain in Christ, no evil can overpower us. Are we striving at all costs to remain in Him? Do we know that we are not alone in our struggles and that He is with us always?

Let us cry out to Him, “Lord do thou strengthen and increase my faith. In thy divinity, may I adore, love and confess it even at the peril of my own life !” Amen

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.

Come follow me…

Do we remind ourselves of the pledge we take every Ash Wednesday, which should also be a daily reminder and that is to “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospels.” ?

Are we ready to be transformed? Jesus is calling us to something new, to discipleship….Are we ready? What is our response?

“Come follow me….. ” is an invitation of love and to love. His voice is a soothing gentle one which embraces with peace and tranquillity.

If we have a sense of foreboding, whose voice are we listening to? If we say He has not called us or we listened but have not heard, have we prepared our hearts to listen? Have we willed ourselves to want to change? To go for reconciliation?

Let us respond this day to His call, let us cry out ” Here I am Lord, I have heard you calling me , lead me Lord to do Your will for I love you with all my heart. ” Amen

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.

Are we envious of the gifts and talents of others? Do we realise our own potential? Are we using the gifts and talents given from God our Father?

All of us are given roles to play, some seemingly unimportant but do we always fully understand our Father’s plans? Do we not trust that He knows what is best of us and our brethren?

Do we rejoice that Jesus our bridegroom is with us, speaking to us everyday? Do we not listen to His voice?

How can we welcome Jesus into our hearts if are hearts are full of worldly desires? How can we be filled with the Graces God our Father wants us to have if we are full of ourselves?  Let us cry out together as St John The Baptist did in Holy humility, “He must increase; I must decrease!”

Today’s GOSPEL
Jn 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 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 decrease.”

Do we allow the Word of God to transform us? To open our hearts and minds? To be filled with the grace of God poured out unto us?

Do we see Jesus at the pulpit during the Eucharistic Celebration? And listen intently at His Word?

Today we have shepherds amongst us sent to share and increase our faith, do we look upon them with envy or suspicion? Do we refuse to listen even though we know they speak the truth?

The Spirit of the Lord is upon us and we have been anointed to preach the Good News, have we begun our ministry?

Let us pray….

My Lord, My God, sometimes it is just so very hard to love my brother  and sister but I know that if I truly love You then I must love them  without reservation. Teach and show me the way in times of difficulty, I am Your child and through Your only begotten Son, our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ, I have victory over the world. Help me stay on the righteous path so that I may lead others and together we will rejoice in Your kingdom…. Amen  

Today’s Gospel

Luke 4:14-22
Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSVCE)

The Beginning of the Galilean Ministry

14 And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee, and a report concerning him went out through all the surrounding country. 15 And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all.

The Rejection of Jesus at Nazareth

16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; and he went to the synagogue, as his custom was, on the sabbath day.[a] And he stood up to read; 17 and there was given to him the book of the prophet Isaiah. He opened the book and found the place where it was written,

18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives
and recovering of sight to the blind,
to set at liberty those who are oppressed,
19 to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.”
20 And he closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant, and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. 21 And he began to say to them, “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” 22 And all spoke well of him, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth; and they said, “Is not this Joseph’s son?”

Are our hearts hardened that we do not see, touch, feel God’s presence or grace upon us?

Jesus walks past us to let us know He is near and waits for us to cry out to Him in our hour of need should we choose to…. Do we acknowledge His presence?

Jesus speaks to all of us, “Take courage, do not be afraid, I am with you”  If we fear, we need to ask ourselves, have we experienced perfect love in Christ? Are we experiencing it now? 

If we are not and have fear then it is a surety that our fear is a result of sin. For as St John reminds us in the first reading… There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment, and so one who fears is not yet perfect in love.

Today’s 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.

Are we genuinely concerned about the welfare of others?
Do we love unconditionally as we are loved by our Father?
Are willing to give without reservation, trusting in our Father’s Providence?
Do we love and serve inspite of our weariness?
Do we recognise this miracle of the feeding of five thousand in the Eucharist of today?

Let us pray…

Heavenly Father, we know and experience true love only because You love us first. There is no greater sign of Your love than Your love made flesh, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, help us learn to always love others the way you love us. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

Today’s 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.

We have been given the Good News, Jesus has come in the flesh to redeem us but do we truly know what it means?

What is the Good News of the Kingdom?

Jesus repeats and it fact proclaims what John the Baptist preached “Repent for the kingdom of God is at hand!” Do we acknowledge that we need to repent of our sinful ways before can truly experience the kingdom of God?

If we truly understand the Good News then why has the overwhelming joy of knowing and experiencing it not moved us to share it with others?

The Good News is here to heal us! Give glory to God by sharing the message with His children, knowing that His children will listen for the spirit of Truth is within us.

First Reading 1 John 3:22-4:6 ( Read )

Gospel
Matthew 4:12-17,23-25

Hearing that John had been arrested, Jesus went back to Galilee, and leaving Nazareth he went and settled in Capernaum, a lakeside town on the borders of Zebulun and Naphtali. In this way the prophecy of Isaiah was to be fulfilled:

‘Land of Zebulun! Land of Naphtali!
Way of the sea on the far side of Jordan,
Galilee of the nations!
The people that lived in darkness has seen a great light;
on those who dwell in the land and shadow of death
a light has dawned.’

From that moment Jesus began his preaching with the message, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is close at hand.’
He went round the whole of Galilee teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the Good News of the kingdom and curing all kinds of diseases and sickness among the people. His fame spread throughout Syria, and those who were suffering from diseases and painful complaints of one kind or another, the possessed, epileptics, the paralysed, were all brought to him, and he cured them. Large crowds followed him, coming from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judaea and Transjordania.

Everyday we struggle with choices and have to battle temptations to remain as children of God.  What we have as a result is peace of mind, love and life with God. But why do we choose the easy path the wider gate to our own destruction? Why do we not persevere when we do not even have to rely on our own strength? Jesus is our strength, our light and way….

He is telling us to “Come and See…” to walk with Him as His disciples.

Here is something I wrote recently, because like you I struggle everyday too….

Why do I struggle everyday to remain in the light? Do I have an affinity with darkness? In my conviction I am strong, I am tall then once again I fall!

Still I must battle for what is right and remain fearless! Pick myself up, I choose life! Else submit to the theft and face death..

Let us pray….

O Lord my God, give me the courage, strength and wisdom to always choose the narrow path which leads to you. And in my weakness hear my prayer as I cry out with all my heart to you “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.” Through Christ our Lord.  Amen

First reading
1 John 3:7-10

My children, do not let anyone lead you astray: to live a holy life is to be holy just as he is holy; to lead a sinful life is to belong to the devil, since the devil was a sinner from the beginning. It was to undo all that  the devil has done that the Son of God appeared. No one who has been begotten by God sins; because God’s seed remains inside him, he cannot sin when he has been begotten by God.

In this way we distinguish the children of God from the children of the devil: anybody not living a holy life and not loving his brother is no child of God’s.

Gospel
John 1:35-42

As John stood with two of his disciples, Jesus passed, and John stared hard at him and said, ‘Look, there is the lamb of God.’ Hearing this, the two disciples followed Jesus. Jesus turned round, saw them following and said, ‘What do you want?’ They answered, ‘Rabbi,’ – which means Teacher –’where do you live?’ ‘Come and see’ he replied; so they went and saw where he lived, and stayed with him the rest of that day. It was about the tenth hour.

One of these two who became followers of Jesus after hearing what John had said was Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter. Early next morning, Andrew met his brother and said to him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ – which means the Christ – and he took Simon to Jesus. Jesus looked hard at him and said, ‘You are Simon son of John; you are to be called Cephas’ – meaning Rock.

Are we prepared to bear witness to the truth? Are we determined to share the Good News of true love and salvation, Jesus!? Have we deceased so that He can increase in our lives and in the lives of others?

Let us pray….

Father, we thank you for setting your love upon us, we want to be clear witnesses to You. Give us what we need to carry this out, we ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen

Today’s 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.

Let us pray….

O God, whom the Holy innocents confessed and proclaimed on this day, not by speaking but by dying, grant we pray, that the faith in you which we confess with our lips may also speak through our manner of life. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,one God for ever and ever. Amen

If we live our lives in the light, as he is in the light, we are in union with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 1 John 1:7

Today’s Gospel
Matthew 2:13-18

13 Now after they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” 14 Then Joseph[a] got up, took the child and his mother by night, and went to Egypt, 15 and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet, “Out of Egypt I have called my son.”

The Massacre of the Infants

16 When Herod saw that he had been tricked by the wise men,[b] he was infuriated, and he sent and killed all the children in and around Bethlehem who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had learned from the wise men.[c] 17 Then was fulfilled what had been spoken through the prophet Jeremiah:

18 “A voice was heard in Ramah,
wailing and loud lamentation,
Rachel weeping for her children;
she refused to be consoled, because they are no more.”

From the cradle to the cross,
Bearing our sins, to redeem the sheep lost,
From blessed womb to the tomb,
Our redeemer lives to save us from doom

How great is our God!

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.

Let us pray…

St Stephen you were filled with Grace and The Holy Spirit that no one could withstand the wisdom and spirit with which you spoke, pray for us that we may do likewise to Herald the Good News of salvation to all God’s people. Through Chris our Lord. Amen.

Why do we worry about what we are to say to others or to whom we speak in sharing our faith?  Our Lord assures us that the Holy Spirit will guide us and give us the courage and strength so fear not! Have faith! Remain focussed on Him at all times and we will not falter. See how focussed St Stephen was….Let us all cry out to our Father, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit!”

First Reading Acts 6:8–10; 7:54–59

Today’s 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.”

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord and my spirit exults in God my saviour!

The magnificat… an awesome prayer which we treasure and hold dear. But how many of us simply marvel that our Blessed Mother uttered it and recognising that she must have been learned, filled with the Holy Spirit even both! But how many of us are following Mary our Mother’s example of living out our lives so that we too can one day say “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord and my spirit exults in God my saviour!”

Today’s Gospel
Luke 1:46-56

Mary said:

‘My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord
and my spirit exults in God my saviour;
because he has looked upon his lowly handmaid.
Yes, from this day forward all generations will call me blessed,
for the Almighty has done great things for me.
Holy is his name,
and his mercy reaches from age to age for those who fear him.
He has shown the power of his arm,
he has routed the proud of heart.
He has pulled down princes from their thrones and exalted the lowly.
The hungry he has filled with good things, the rich sent empty away.
He has come to the help of Israel his servant, mindful of his mercy
– according to the promise he made to our ancestors –
of his mercy to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’

Mary stayed with Elizabeth about three months and then went back home.

“Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.”

Let us pray…

Mary our Mother sets the perfect example of how we should live our lives according to your Will. She was not spared the fatigue of life nor the anguish of the cross but rejoices now with You in Your Glory. Through her loving intercession and the perfect gift of Your Son, may we, through our suffering and sacrifices of love be led into your heavenly fold. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Today’s 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.

When God speaks to me in so many ways, spoken and unspoken; telling me that He loves me, He heals me, His mercy is upon me? He will grant my prayer…..

How can I be sure? or How can I know it is so?

Even when we struggle to lead good, honest even holy lives and live according to the commandments of God our Father, why do we still have these doubts from time to time? Are we too busy in the struggle to see, touch and experience the fruits of our labour? To know that God’s love, peace,joy,healing and the numerous gifts He bestows are upon us?

Let us pray….Lord, as I contemplate the example of Mary’s simplicity and generosity, my heart burns within me. If only I could be as docile as she was. In my desire to improve, I trust in your help and mercy. As I begin this prayer, I humbly place myself in your presence. I come, Lord, to do your will. Let it be done to me according to Your Word. Amen

Today’s Gospel – Luke 1:5-25

The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold

5 In the days of King Herod of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly order of Abijah. His wife was a descendant of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6 Both of them were righteous before God, living blamelessly according to all the commandments and regulations of the Lord. 7 But they had no children, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were getting on in years.

8 Once when he was serving as priest before God and his section was on duty, 9 he was chosen by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and offer incense. 10 Now at the time of the incense offering, the whole assembly of the people was praying outside. 11 Then there appeared to him an angel of the Lord, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. 12 When Zechariah saw him, he was terrified; and fear overwhelmed him. 13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will name him John. 14 You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He must never drink wine or strong drink; even before his birth he will be filled with the Holy Spirit. 16 He will turn many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God. 17 With the spirit and power of Elijah he will go before him, to turn the hearts of parents to their children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” 18 Zechariah said to the angel, “How will I know that this is so? For I am an old man, and my wife is getting on in years.” 19 The angel replied, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. 20 But now, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time, you will become mute, unable to speak, until the day these things occur.”

21 Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah, and wondered at his delay in the sanctuary. 22 When he did come out, he could not speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the sanctuary. He kept motioning to them and remained unable to speak. 23 When his time of service was ended, he went to his home.

24 After those days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she remained in seclusion. She said, 25 “This is what the Lord has done for me when he looked favorably on me and took away the disgrace I have endured among my people.”

Today’s Gospel : – Luke 1:5-25

The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold

5 In the days of King Herod of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly order of Abijah. His wife was a descendant of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6 Both of them were righteous before God, living blamelessly according to all the commandments and regulations of the Lord. 7 But they had no children, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were getting on in years.

8 Once when he was serving as priest before God and his section was on duty, 9 he was chosen by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and offer incense. 10 Now at the time of the incense offering, the whole assembly of the people was praying outside. 11 Then there appeared to him an angel of the Lord, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. 12 When Zechariah saw him, he was terrified; and fear overwhelmed him. 13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will name him John. 14 You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He must never drink wine or strong drink; even before his birth he will be filled with the Holy Spirit. 16 He will turn many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God. 17 With the spirit and power of Elijah he will go before him, to turn the hearts of parents to their children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” 18 Zechariah said to the angel, “How will I know that this is so? For I am an old man, and my wife is getting on in years.” 19 The angel replied, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. 20 But now, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time, you will become mute, unable to speak, until the day these things occur.”

21 Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah, and wondered at his delay in the sanctuary. 22 When he did come out, he could not speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the sanctuary. He kept motioning to them and remained unable to speak. 23 When his time of service was ended, he went to his home.

24 After those days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she remained in seclusion. She said, 25 “This is what the Lord has done for me when he looked favorably on me and took away the disgrace I have endured among my people.”

God speaks to us all the time, often times subtly. Through dreams, His Word, through prophets even through our family and friends. His ways in reaching out to us is not limited. How many of us are in tune to hear Him? How many of us have prepared ourselves to receive the many gifts and blessings He wants to bestow upon us?

Today’s 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.

Sunday Bible Reflections with Dr. Scott Hahn 

What Do We Do?
Readings:
Zephaniah 3:14-18
Isaiah 12:2-6
Philippians 4:4-7
Luke 3:10-18
________________________________________

The people in today’s Gospel are “filled with expectation.” They believe John the Baptist might be the Messiah they’ve been waiting for. Three times we hear their question: “What then should we do?”
The Messiah’s coming requires every man and woman to choose – to “repent” or not. That’s John’s message and it will be Jesus’ too (see Luke 3:3; 5:32; 24:47).
“Repentance” translates a Greek word, metanoia (literally, “change of mind”). In the Scriptures, repentance is presented as a two-fold “turning” – away from sin (see Ezekiel 3:19; 18:30) and toward God (see Sirach 17:20-21; Hosea 6:1).
This “turning” is more than attitude adjustment. It means a radical life-change. It requires “good fruits as evidence of your repentance” (see Luke 3:8). That’s why John tells the crowds, soldiers and tax collectors they must prove their faith through works of charity, honesty and social justice.
In today’s Liturgy, each of us is being called to stand in that crowd and hear the “good news” of John’s call to repentance. We should examine our lives, ask from our hearts as they did: “What should we do?” Our repentance should spring, not from our fear of coming wrath (see Luke 3:7-9), but from a joyful sense of the nearness of our saving God.
This theme resounds through today’s readings: “Rejoice!…The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all,” we hear in today’s Epistle. In today’s Responsorial, we hear again the call to be joyful, unafraid at the Lord’s coming among us.
In today’s First Reading, we hear echoes of the angel’s Annunciation to Mary. The prophet’s words are very close to the angel’s greeting (compare Luke 1:28-31). Mary is the Daughter Zion – the favored one of God, told not to fear but to rejoice that the Lord is with her, “a mighty Savior.”
She is the cause of our joy. For in her draws near the Messiah, as John had promised: “One mightier than I is coming.”

He gives strength to the wearied, He strengthens the powerless. Young men may grow tired and weary, youths may stumble, but those who hope in the Lord renew their strength, they put out wings like eagles. They run and do not grow weary,walk and never tire. Isaiah 40:29-31

Why do we go through life feeling all alone amidst a crowd? Why do we struggle everyday feeling overloaded and exhausted? Why are we angry or moody all the time? Why do feel like no one understands us? Why do we allow the world to weigh us down? How can we overcome all this?

The truth and answer is simple…..when we are able to cry out, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want!”

Today Gospel
Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus exclaimed, ‘Come to me, all you who labour and are overburdened, and I will give you rest. Shoulder my yoke and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Yes, my yoke is easy and my burden light.’

There is nothing that we can do, that our Father will not forgive us for, do we realise just how much He loves us?
Do we want to be found?

Let us pray….

Heavenly Father we pray for mercy and forgiveness for ourselves and our loved ones. We pray also for the conversion of sinners, especially for the lost sheep among our friends and family. Soften all our hearts to Your great and wonderful love and by your Grace, our advent journey will be a fruitful and joyous one at the end, through Christ our Lord. Amen
Today’s Gospel – Matthew 18:12-14

12 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? 13 And if he finds it, amen, I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety-nine that did not stray. 14 In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost.”