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

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

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

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

GOSPEL
Luke 8:4–15

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 15:12–20

GOSPEL
Luke 8:1–3

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

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

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

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

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 15:1–11

GOSPEL
Luke 7:36–50

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

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

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

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

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 12:31–13:13

GOSPEL
Luke 7:31–35

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GOSPEL
Luke 7:11–17

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

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

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

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

First Reading
1 Cor 11:17-26, 33

Gospel
Lk 7:1-10

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

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

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

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

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 10:14–22

GOSPEL
Luke 6:43–49

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

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

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

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

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

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

GOSPEL
Luke 6:39–42

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

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

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

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

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

GOSPEL
Luke 6:27–38

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

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

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

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

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 7:25–31

GOSPEL
Luke 6:20–26

Raising his eyes toward his disciples Jesus said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 6:1–11

GOSPEL
Luke 6:12–19

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

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

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

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

We your children wish you a blessed happy birthday!

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

The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Feast

FIRST READING
Micah 5:1–4a

Gospel
Matthew1:18–23

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

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

which means “God is with us.”

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

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

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

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 4:6b–15

GOSPEL
Luke 6:1–5

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

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

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

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

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 4:1–5

GOSPEL
Luke 5:33–39

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

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

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

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

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 3:18–23

GOSPEL
Luke 5:1–11

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

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

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

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

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 3:1–9

GOSPEL
Luke 4:38–44

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 2:10b–16

GOSPEL
Luke 4:31–37

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

There were many times I was moved to speak up on the message from our Lord. The message of His love and salvation. The call for repentance and holiness. To bring hope and comfort to those before me who was clearly in need. But I chose to be silent, thinking I was not good enough, not eloquent enough. Who was I that they will listen? What qualifications did I possess? There were far better people suited for the task.

But as I grew in faith I realised they were all missed opportunities. He had chosen me in my weakness, with my shortcomings and all, so that His glory could shine through me. He would fill me up and make me whole. I, like many others are far better suited for the task He provides then we can ever imagine. Even our past can be used as testimony for the future.

Lord Jesus let Your spirit be upon be me, that I may serve Your flock not with my own wisdom. Let me instead be a beacon of Your love. So that their faith rest on the power of Your glory. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 2:1–5

GOSPEL
Luke 4:16–30

Jesus 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. They also asked, “Is this not the son of Joseph?” He said to them, “Surely you will quote me this proverb, ‘Physician, cure yourself,’ and say, ‘Do here in your native place the things that we heard were done in Capernaum.’” And he said, “Amen, I say to you, no prophet is accepted in his own native place. Indeed, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah when the sky was closed for three and a half years and a severe famine spread over the entire land. It was to none of these that Elijah was sent, but only to a widow in Zarephath in the land of Sidon. Again, there were many lepers in Israel during the time of Elisha the prophet; yet not one of them was cleansed, but only Naaman the Syrian.” When the people in the synagogue heard this, they were all filled with fury. They rose up, drove him out of the town, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their town had been built, to hurl him down headlong. But he passed through the midst of them and went away.

It is true that while we chose to live in sin we were worthless and weak. But in His mercy our Lord heard our cries for help. He picked us up, cleaned us off and filled us with his grace and love. Praise be to God!

What then does He ask of us? Simply to share His love and mercy for which we have received abundantly. He provides for all that we need. He equips us with what we can manage and sends us on our way. What do we do with the task given to us?

Lord Jesus let me never cower in fear of responsibility, for You are my tower of strength! Let me serve You and my brethren faithfully. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 1:26–31

GOSPEL
Matthew 25:14–30

Jesus told his disciples this parable:
“A man going on a journey called in his servants and entrusted his possessions to them. To one he gave five talents; to another, two; to a third, one– to each according to his ability. Then he went away. Immediately the one who received five talents went and traded with them, and made another five. Likewise, the one who received two made another two. But the man who received one went off and dug a hole in the ground and buried his master’s money. After a long time the master of those servants came back and settled accounts with them. The one who had received five talents came forward bringing the additional five. He said, ‘Master, you gave me five talents. See, I have made five more.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.’ Then the one who had received two talents also came forward and said, ‘Master, you gave me two talents. See, I have made two more.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.’ Then the one who had received the one talent came forward and said, ‘Master, I knew you were a demanding person, harvesting where you did not plant and gathering where you did not scatter; so out of fear I went off and buried your talent in the ground. Here it is back.’ His master said to him in reply, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I did not plant and gather where I did not scatter? Should you not then have put my money in the bank so that I could have got it back with interest on my return? Now then! Take the talent from him and give it to the one with ten. For to everyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. And throw this useless servant into the darkness outside, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth. “

What is truth? That man is willing to die for? It is far easier to give in to deception. To allow our loins to rule our heads or give in to the many temptations that rob us of our honesty. Do we judge the foolishness of others and yet not see in them the very same foolish choices we have made from time to time?

To live in truth is to hear the voice of God. We are called to a life of holiness.

Lord Jesus I give You the truth of my heart. By Your precious blood liberate me to love and serve You. Amen

St John the Baptist pray for us.

The Martyrdom of Saint John the Baptist

FIRST READING
Jeremiah 1:17–19

GOSPEL
Mark 6:17–29

Herod was the one who had John the Baptist 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. She 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. Herodias’ 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?” She 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.

Oh how easy it is for us to be distracted by the world. So many advertisements and in so many forms showing us what we are missing, what we need, why we need it even how we are to dress, what we need to eat and what holiday we must have! It is far easier to fall asleep and give in to our many fantasies even sexual ones.

But You O Lord have shown me the error of my ways. You have liberated me and given me new life in You. I am truly more alive now then I have ever been. All I will ever need or want, I have in You. I have great joy in serving You and my brethen, one that cannot be bought or found other than in You. Has it always been easy and smooth sailing? No.Was there suffering and hardship? Yes. And I gladly carry the cross that I have to bear; for You have been faithfully by my side and Your peace is always upon me.

Lord let me always be awake in and for You. Amen

FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 1:1–9

GOSPEL
Matthew 24:42–51

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Stay awake!
For you do not know on which day your Lord will come. Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour of night when the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and not let his house be broken into. So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.

“Who, then, is the faithful and prudent servant, whom the master has put in charge of his household to distribute to them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master on his arrival finds doing so. Amen, I say to you, he will put him in charge of all his property. But if that wicked servant says to himself, ‘My master is long delayed,’ and begins to beat his fellow servants, and eat and drink with drunkards, the servant’s master will come on an unexpected day and at an unknown hour and will punish him severely and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.”

Is it possible to hear the word of God and not be changed? transformed? To preach or share the good news and yet not do or act in accordance with the Scriptures? To receive communion and yet not be in communion with the Church and the body of Christ? What good can come from an appearance of holiness? Unearned respect or recognition? Repent and let hearts of stone be turned into flesh!

The true Holy people of God live not in the foreground, they are too busy with works of mercy and service to God our Father. And so the light of Christ shines through them for nothing is hidden or lying in darkness.

Lord Jesus help me remain steadfast in Your love, let me honour and serve You and my brethren in humility and love all the days of my life. Amen

FIRST READING
2 Thessalonians 3:6–10, 16–18

GOSPEL
Matthew 23:27–32

Jesus said,
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You are like whitewashed tombs, which appear beautiful on the outside, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of filth. Even so, on the outside you appear righteous, but inside you are filled with hypocrisy and evildoing.

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the memorials of the righteous, and you say, ‘If we had lived in the days of our ancestors, we would not have joined them in shedding the prophets’ blood.’ Thus you bear witness against yourselves that you are the children of those who murdered the prophets; now fill up what your ancestors measured out!”

Inspired by the Holy Spirit the sacred traditions of our Church have been preserved throughout the centuries. Most will never change especially the ones instituted by our Lord, others with new inspirations from our living God are changed to draw us closer to Him in the present changing time. Knowing that it all comes from our Lord, can we pick and choose what we want to follow and what we don’t? Can we use the excuse of a lack of understanding or ignorance? And then make no effort to learn? Or do we follow them blindly with our hearts and minds disengaged?

Every time we read and reflect on the Word of God and every Eucharistic celebration we attend will and must transform us. For we are drawn into His love and His grace; And that very love and grace will fill our hearts so that we in turn can love everyone especially the least of our brethren. If reading the Word and attending the Eucharistic celebration does nothing for us, if it does not change us in any way or change our attitude towards others then we can be sure our hearts and minds are fully occupied with everything else not from or of God. It could also be a sign of us still holding on to our unrepentant sinful lives. We need to be reconciled with God our heavenly Father.

Lord Jesus let might sights be set only on heavenly things and my heart fully engaged in loving and serving You. Amen

FIRST READING
2 Thessalonians 2:1–3a, 14–17

GOSPEL
Matthew 23:23–26

Jesus said:
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You pay tithes of mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier things of the law: judgment and mercy and fidelity. But these you should have done, without neglecting the others. Blind guides, who strain out the gnat and swallow the camel!

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You cleanse the outside of cup and dish, but inside they are full of plunder and self–indulgence. Blind Pharisee, cleanse first the inside of the cup, so that the outside also may be clean.”

What good is our faith if it has no roots and thus bears no fruit? Whom do we worship? If we only pay lip service? How does our prayer transform lives if our hearts are not engaged? How does our love for God and our neighbour grow If we are not willing to sacrifice our time? Nor willing to endure a little hardship or suffering?

I am an important part of the body of Christ just as all parts are equally important. If I think that worship is a private thing, I live for myself and my family alone then I am not part of the body of Christ. To be the body of Christ is to be in, to live in and to live for the community. In prefect union with Him our Godhead, we lift Him up; our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ for all the world to see. So that they too may witness His glory, come into faith and be saved.

Lord grant us open hearts that You may fill with Your love always. Amen

FIRST READING
2 Thessalonians 1:1–5, 11–12

GOSPEL
Matthew 23:13–22

Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples:
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You lock the Kingdom of heaven before men. You do not enter yourselves, nor do you allow entrance to those trying to enter.

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You traverse sea and land to make one convert, and when that happens you make him a child of Gehenna twice as much as yourselves.

“Woe to you, blind guides, who say, ‘If one swears by the temple, it means nothing, but if one swears by the gold of the temple, one is obligated.’ Blind fools, which is greater, the gold, or the temple that made the gold sacred? And you say, ‘If one swears by the altar, it means nothing, but if one swears by the gift on the altar, one is obligated.’ You blind ones, which is greater, the gift, or the altar that makes the gift sacred? One who swears by the altar swears by it and all that is upon it; one who swears by the temple swears by it and by him who dwells in it; one who swears by heaven swears by the throne of God and by him who is seated on it.”

Woe to me if I exalt myself! And behave as as if I were a God! The ways of the world shout out to me,” You shall bow before no one nor have you a need to bow at all!” Empty pride and sin had blinded me from acknowledging my creator, from encountering my Lord and my God. For when I humbled and prostrated myself before Him, He lifted me above three times high saying,”I am Your Father and You are my child.”

I have often reflected on the life of my Saviour Jesus Christ, on His wisdom, His teaching and His ways. And I have often pondered on my own relationship with my Lord, and my relationship with others. The one thing that really hit home and straight into my heart for which I always remain in awe and speechless is this….. If my Lord is willing with all His heart to get down on His knees to lovingly wash my feet, how can I do any less? For Him or for my brethren? How can I not serve Him and my brethren with that same love and humility?

Forgive me Lord for the times I have been proud, selfish and self centred. I humbly implore that You continue to love and guide me in Your ways, so that I may always be blessing to You and for others. Amen

FIRST READING
Ezekiel 43:1–7ab

GOSPEL
Matthew 23:1–12

Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples, saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses. Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but they do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them. All their works are performed to be seen. They widen their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels. They love places of honor at banquets, seats of honor in synagogues, greetings in marketplaces, and the salutation ‘Rabbi.’ As for you, do not be called ‘Rabbi.’ You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers. Call no one on earth your father; you have but one Father in heaven. Do not be called ‘Master’; you have but one master, the Christ. The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

I need only choose to sin and once again I taste the bitter dryness of not having You my Lord in my life. Guilt and sorrow fill my days for a while, thereafter I seek thrills and excitement often sinful ones to fill up the void in my life. I walk among the living yet I have no life in me. Breathe on me breath of my Lord and God that I may live! That I may love and be loved!

Truly You are love O God! For my cup is overflowing as I bask in Your love. I did nothing to deserve Your love and yet You gave it to me all the same. I truly love You with all my heart and my soul.

Before I could not love my neighbour as I love myself. Because I had a selfish narcissistic kind of love. How could I love the least of my brethren? The kind of neighbour I am called to love. I realise now that I could not because I knew not what true love was? Love that only comes from You.

Fill me Lord with Your love O Lord that I may share it with all. Amen

FIRST READING
Ezekiel 37:1–14

GOSPEL
Matthew 22:34–40

When the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together, and one of them, a scholar of the law, tested him by asking, “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?” He said to him, “You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. The whole law and the prophets depend on these two commandments.”

Whether we accept it or not, children are often seen as a reflection of their parents. It does not really matter that the parents are holy, virtuous and righteous. Evil unbridled mouths will link the two and soon the family’s good name is lost. Will our heavenly Father fair any differently? When we His children profane His name with our vile words and deeds.

In His great love and mercy, He wants to wash us clean from the filth and muck of sin that has stuck. He invites us all, saints and sinners alike to the wedding supper of the lamb. He wants to feed and nourish us, wash and clothe us with His holiness. Will we refuse? Will we turn our backs on Him? Will we remain silent in our indifference?

Jesus our Lord, our bridegroom, make us ready now to share this meal. Sign of our life in You. Amen

FIRST READING
Ezekiel 36:23–28

GOSPEL
Matthew 22:1–14

Jesus again in reply spoke to the chief priests and the elders of the people in parables saying, “The Kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son. He dispatched his servants to summon the invited guests to the feast, but they refused to come. A second time he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those invited: “Behold, I have prepared my banquet, my calves and fattened cattle are killed, and everything is ready; come to the feast.”’ Some ignored the invitation and went away, one to his farm, another to his business. The rest laid hold of his servants, mistreated them, and killed them. The king was enraged and sent his troops, destroyed those murderers, and burned their city. Then the king said to his servants, ‘The feast is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy to come. Go out, therefore, into the main roads and invite to the feast whomever you find.’ The servants went out into the streets and gathered all they found, bad and good alike, and the hall was filled with guests. But when the king came in to meet the guests he saw a man there not dressed in a wedding garment. He said to him, ‘My friend, how is it that you came in here without a wedding garment?’ But he was reduced to silence. Then the king said to his attendants, ‘Bind his hands and feet, and cast him into the darkness outside, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.’ Many are invited, but few are chosen.”

O Lord You are my Shepherd and there is nothing I shall ever want! Time and again I have wandered into darkness and could not find my way home to You; But You O Lord came seeking me out, set me on the narrow path and led me into the light of my Home. When I was weary and could not go on, You carried me over Your shoulders till I was able to walk on my own again.  I am am very familiar with Your gentle voice and when You call out to me I listen, and follow You. What have I ever done to deserve such love?

In Your great mercy Lord You call out to everyone, sinners and saints alike; so that all can make their way back to You.  Such is Your love O Lord that even if were slow to heed Your call, we are welcomed all the same in Your warm embrace.  Let me now take up my cross and be the Shepherd that you have called me to be. Teach me Your ways Lord and let me lead by Your example, so that I may be the Shepherd for others as You have been for me.

Lord You are my Shepherd, there is nothing I shall want. Amen

FIRST READING
Ezekiel 34:1–11

GOSPEL
Matthew 20:1–16

Jesus told his disciples this parable:
“The Kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out at dawn to hire laborers for his vineyard. After agreeing with them for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard. Going out about nine o’clock, he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, and he said to them, ‘You too go into my vineyard, and I will give you what is just.’ So they went off. And he went out again around noon, and around three o’clock, and did likewise. Going out about five o’clock, he found others standing around, and said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’ They answered, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You too go into my vineyard.’ When it was evening the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Summon the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and ending with the first.’ When those who had started about five o’clock came, each received the usual daily wage. So when the first came, they thought that they would receive more, but each of them also got the usual wage. And on receiving it they grumbled against the landowner, saying, ‘These last ones worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us, who bore the day’s burden and the heat.’ He said to one of them in reply, ‘My friend, I am not cheating you. Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? Take what is yours and go. What if I wish to give this last one the same as you? Or am I not free to do as I wish with my own money? Are you envious because I am generous?’ Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.”

Abba forgive me, I may not be wealthy and haughty but I have certainly acted as such. I have indeed been proud and selfish. Time and money was only well spent if it was on me first, family and on rare occasion friends. I never set my sights on You unless it was out of desperation, for I relied on my own strength. I gloried in my personal accomplishments. I was a fool!
I am glad that I did not wait until I was at my lowest point to turn back to You. I did so with a desire to know You, to know Your ways. For my way was leading me in circles. And I realise now that I could not come back on my own. It was Your saving Grace Lord Jesus that has helped me find my way back to my heavenly Father.

Jesus my Lord, my God, I now gladly give up my life for Your sake. For I know my life is safe in Your hands, for even if my mortal life is taken; I will have true life in You. Let me sing the praises of my great and mighty God to all who will lisen so that they too will learn and sing with me. Glory! Glory! Glory to You O Lord! Amen.

First Reading
Ez 28:1-10

Gospel
Mt 19:23-30

Jesus said to his disciples: “Amen, I say to you, it will be hard for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of heaven. Again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of God.” When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and said, “Who then can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “For men this is impossible, but for God all things are possible.” Then Peter said to him in reply, “We have given up everything and followed you. What will there be for us?” Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you that you who have followed me, in the new age, when the Son of Man is seated on his throne of glory, will yourselves sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for the sake of my name will receive a hundred times more, and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.”

Yes Lord I now mourn for my terrible sins! I gave in to lust, my base desires and seeking only to advance in my career so that I may lead a comfortable life. I wanted this not just for myself but for my family too, even though I had to forsake them to do so. And what do I now have to show for it? An empty life without You! The scales of sin have indeed fallen from my eyes, take pity on me Lord and be merciful.

Lord Jesus I do love You with all my heart and endeavour to always follow all the commandments and statutes of my heavenly Father. Give me the courage to surrender all and follow You. For what good is it that I gain the whole world but forfeit my life! I truly want to live only for and with You. Lord be my guide. Amen

FIRST READING
Ezekiel 24:15–23

GOSPEL
Matthew 19:16–22

A young man approached Jesus and said, “Teacher, what good must I do to gain eternal life?” He answered him, “Why do you ask me about the good? There is only One who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.” He asked him, “Which ones?” And Jesus replied, “You shall not kill;
you shall not commit adultery;
you shall not steal;
you shall not bear false witness;
honor your father and your mother;
and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
The young man said to him, “All of these I have observed. What do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When the young man heard this statement, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.

How wonderful it is to be Your child O God my heavenly Father! To have the choice to embrace the love You offer and to live in that love. And all that You ask of us is that we keep Your statutes and commandments. Purity of heart and mind is what You desire, and You will help cleanse and purify us when we turn to You.

When we grow up and have children of our own, let us be mindful that we exact the greatest influence over our children. And while You our merciful Father, will not punish the children for the sins of the parents; You will judge them according to their own sins which may have been a result of the influential sins of the parents.

Lord Jesus which ever stage we are in our lives, help us to lead our lives as Children of God our almighty and loving Father. Guide us so that we may always be beacons of Your eternal light. In Your most precious name we pray, Amen.

FIRST READING
Ezekiel 18:1–10, 13b, 30–32

GOSPEL
Matthew 19:13–15

Children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked them, but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the Kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” After he placed his hands on them, he went away.

O Lord my God, I praise and thank You for giving me Your mother. She is so precious to me and I love her with all my heart. All my life she has been very patient and kind with me. And everytime I lost my way, she would lead me back to you. She has been and will always be for me a model of perfect love and obedience to God our heavenly Father. Everything she has done and continues to do truly magnifies the glory of God.

Dearest blessed mother Mary, teach me your gentle ways. Let me understand with your understanding, let me be prudent with your prudence. Show me how to love my Lord and saviour your Son Jesus Christ as you have loved Him. Guide me sweet mother, that I may always have purity of heart, mind and soul. Pray for me dear mother that I may be courageous and bold in proclaiming the Word and bringing the knowledge of Your Son Jesus to all. So that they too well have a deep and fruitful relationship with Him.

Loving mother be by my side always. Glory be to God forever. Amen

Solemnity of The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

FIRST READING
Revelation 11:19a; 12:1–6a, 10ab

SECOND READING
1 Corinthians 15:20–27

GOSPEL
Luke 1:39–56

Mary set out 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, “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.”

And Mary said:

“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, and has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he has remembered his promise of mercy, the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.”

Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home.

Forgive me O God my heavenly Father for the many times I shut my ears and refused to listen. Closed my eyes refusing to see. Instead of casting me aside and abandoning me, You spoke to me in many varied ways, through friends and strangers alike. Through signs and wonder, even in the quiet. And when I returned to You, embraced me as though I had never left. How great is Your love and mercy.

How then can I not extend that same love and mercy to my brethren? How can I remain haughty and demand repayment? Why do I concern myself with justice when I have a most just God? Why do I want to cage myself in with unforgiveness and self pity? When I can turn to my Lord and saviour Jesus Christ for in His great love died for me that I may live and be set free. By and through His love I can forgive, love and set free. Amen

FIRST READING
Ezekiel 12:1–12

GOSPEL
Matthew 18:21–19:1

Peter approached Jesus and asked him, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy–seven times. That is why the Kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who decided to settle accounts with his servants. When he began the accounting, a debtor was brought before him who owed him a huge amount. Since he had no way of paying it back, his master ordered him to be sold, along with his wife, his children, and all his property, in payment of the debt. At that, the servant fell down, did him homage, and said, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back in full.’ Moved with compassion the master of that servant let him go and forgave him the loan. When that servant had left, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a much smaller amount. He seized him and started to choke him, demanding, ‘Pay back what you owe.’ Falling to his knees, his fellow servant begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.’ But he refused. Instead, he had the fellow servant put in prison until he paid back the debt. Now when his fellow servants saw what had happened, they were deeply disturbed, and went to their master and reported the whole affair. His master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to. Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant, as I had pity on you?’ Then in anger his master handed him over to the torturers until he should pay back the whole debt. So will my heavenly Father do to you, unless each of you forgives his brother from his heart.”

When Jesus finished these words, he left Galilee and went to the district of Judea across the Jordan.

O heavenly Father great is Your mercy and love for us that instead of destroying us all, unworthy creatures that we are. You seek among us all the righteous and the kind;those saddened by the wickedness and cruelty which surrounds them. Marked with the powerful sign of the Cross, we are saved.

In Your great wisdom O Lord, You established Your Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. A great and powerful sacrament, for by Your Grace we are saved. We are united in and by our baptism and so any quarrel that divides us of which we cannot resolve by ourselves; may be resolved by Your Church. Guided by the Holy Spirit the Church exercises through her priests Your power to forgive through the Sacrament of reconciliation. That we may receive the body of Your Son for nourishment so that we may journey to bring the lost and separated Home. For we carry the love and sign off the cross in our hearts. Amen

FIRST READING
Ezekiel 9:1–7; 10:18–22

GOSPEL
Matthew 18:15–20

Jesus said to his disciples:
“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother. If he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, so that every fact may be established on the testimony of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell the Church. If he refuses to listen even to the Church, then treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax collector. Amen, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again, amen, I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”

God our Father so loves us that He wants for us to remain close to Him. In essence to choose good over evil by listening to His Word. When we receive His Word into our very being it not only nourishes us but is life giving. The most precious gift to us; Jesus in the Eucharist.

We who are obedient unto God our Father, who lead simple loving and holy lives; knowing and trusting that our loving Father will provide for all that we need; We are His most precious children and nothing can tear us away from His loving arms. And when we love, honour and care for one another His children, we love and honour Him. Amen

FIRST READING
Ezekiel 2:8—3:4

GOSPEL
Matthew 18:1–5, 10, 12–14

The disciples approached Jesus and said,
“Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven?” He called a child over, placed it in their midst, and said, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me.

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father. 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.”

How we often overlook the majestic splendour of God our Father. In His creation, in nature, in the very crisp morning air that we breathe perfumed by flowers or even the rain. The variety of colours that fill our day or the glitter of the stars at night. Do we take all these for granted? Do we not remember His great love for us in which He sent His only begotten Son to us?

O sweet Jesus You Who are King of kings subjected Yourself to men, to be killed so that we might live. You showed us great love by paying a debt You did not owe. For us who owed a debt we could not pay. O Lord our God! Let us unite all our sacrifices of love for You and for one another together with Your ultimate sacrifice once for all; forever and ever. Amen

FIRST READING
Ezekiel 1:2–5, 24–28c

GOSPEL
Matthew 17:22–27

As Jesus and his disciples were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is to be handed over to men, and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day.” And they were overwhelmed with grief.

When they came to Capernaum, the collectors of the temple tax approached Peter and said, “Does not your teacher pay the temple tax?” “Yes,” he said. When he came into the house, before he had time to speak, Jesus asked him, “What is your opinion, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth take tolls or census tax? From their subjects or from foreigners?” When he said, “From foreigners,” Jesus said to him, “Then the subjects are exempt. But that we may not offend them, go to the sea, drop in a hook, and take the first fish that comes up. Open its mouth and you will find a coin worth twice the temple tax. Give that to them for me and for you.”

O heavenly Father You only want what is best for Your Children. How it must hurt You to see how we lead our lives. The atrocities we commit, the pain we inflict and misery we bring to others and ourselves. Have mercy and let Your Word transform us. Let us lead just and faithful lives.

Jesus give me the courage to exercise my faith, for through Your grace I can do great things in Your name. Let me serve You and my brethren so that I may bring healing, love, peace, sight and whatever else is need according to Your Will. Amen

FIRST READING
Habakkuk 1:12—2:4

GOSPEL
Matthew 17:14–20

A man came up to Jesus, knelt down before him, and said, “Lord, have pity on my son, who is a lunatic and suffers severely; often he falls into fire, and often into water. I brought him to your disciples, but they could not cure him.” Jesus said in reply, “O faithless and perverse generation, how long will I be with you? How long will I endure you? Bring the boy here to me.” Jesus rebuked him and the demon came out of him, and from that hour the boy was cured. Then the disciples approached Jesus in private and said, “Why could we not drive it out?” He said to them, “Because of your little faith. Amen, I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”

The harsh reality of an absence of God in our lives is one of great misery. Evil takes over and does not relent often beginning in very subtle ways. Sexual temptations, pride, greed, want of power, fame, riches to name a few. There is no lasting peace or happiness and soon we find ourselves in despair over broken relationships, fearfulness, health issues even depression. And if we do nothing to change we can be sure it will lead to our destruction.

Why are many apprehensive about taking up the cross? Do they envision only pain and suffering? It is for the love of Jesus first and foremost that we take up the cross, but how can we if we do not know Him? How can we understand or know what it is we take up? How can we experience the peace, love and joy of doing so?

Lord Jesus. I adore You and I take up and embrace my cross. Let my labour of love bear fruits for You and my brethren. In Your most precious name. Amen

St Dominic pray for us.

FIRST READING
Nahum 2:1, 3; 3:1–3, 6–7

GOSPEL
Matthew 16:24–28

Jesus said to his disciples,
“Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? Or what can one give in exchange for his life? For the Son of Man will come with his angels in his Father’s glory, and then he will repay each according to his conduct. Amen, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his Kingdom.”

There is an order in the universe where everything runs more or less like clockwork. Night passes into day and day into night. The creatures of the sky, land and sea need no alarm clock to start their day. How can we not know God? His loving hand in everything?

We know instinctively that it is wrong to kill another or that only through the marriage of Man and Woman can new life be born. How is that? Is it not God’s law written in our hearts? Whom had our Lord sent to make the new and everlasting covenant with us?

And what did our loving Saviour do before He knew He was returning to His Father? He founded His many Churches? And set up a committee? No! Only one Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church, a sign of His great love for and through us, His Body; of which has prevailed over the netherworld.

Lord Jesus let me always seek Your Wisdom and love and not that of the world’s. Amen

FIRST READING
Jeremiah 31:31–34

GOSPEL
Matthew 16:13–23

Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi and he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus said to him in reply, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Then he strictly ordered his disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ.

From that time on, Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer greatly from the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised. Then Peter took Jesus aside and began to rebuke him, “God forbid, Lord! No such thing shall ever happen to you.” He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle to me. You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do.”

Thank You Heavenly Father for loving and caring for us. Your promise of salvation fulfilled through Your Son Jesus Christ who came to give us life, guide and lead us home to You.

We remain in awe of the wonder of our Lord’s Transfiguration, of which much was revealed to us. Your love, word and laws written unto our hearts. A glimpse of the divine glory of the life in which we are destined for. And Your loving invitation spoken that we may hear.

Let us not pitch tents but make haste leaving behind all that is useless, our inertia and our sinful ways. Let the light of our Saviour Jesus Christ transform us and dispel the darkness of our souls. Let us go down from the Holy mountain, bringing the light of Christ to all so that they too can experience a transformed and wonderful life in Christ. Amen

The Transfiguration of the Lord – Feast

FIRST READING
Daniel 7:9–10, 13–14

SECOND READING
2 Peter 1:16–19

GOSPEL
Matthew 17:1–9

Jesus took Peter, James, and his brother, John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them; his face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, conversing with him. Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud cast a shadow over them, then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate and were very much afraid. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and do not be afraid.” And when the disciples raised their eyes, they saw no one else but Jesus alone.

As they were coming down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, “Do not tell the vision to anyone until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”