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There will be times where we need to face the consequences of our actions. It may be distressing and what lies ahead may look bleak. No matter how truly sorry we are, we may feel our words of remorse fall on deaf ears. There is hope, for we can turn to our loving Father in heaven Who can and will turn all our curses into blessings.

And Blessed are we are indeed, if we but open our eyes to see. Where does a Holier than thou attitude come from? Surely we know it comes not from our loving Lord. For if He dwelled in our hearts, His love will shine forth from within. Holiness will no longer be something we aspire for, because we simply live it out. We have no need to proclaim it because everyone can see, hear and be touched. Then all that we are and do bring glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Amen

FIRST READING
Jeremiah 30:1–2, 12–15, 18–22

GOSPEL
Matthew 15:1–2, 10–14

Some Pharisees and scribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem and said, “Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? They do not wash their hands when they eat a meal.” He summoned the crowd and said to them, “Hear and understand. It is not what enters one’s mouth that defiles the man; but what comes out of the mouth is what defiles one.” Then his disciples approached and said to him, “Do you know that the Pharisees took offense when they heard what you said?” He said in reply, “Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted. Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit.”

Are our hearts disconnected from our faith and love of the Lord? Do we prophesy His mercy and love without repentance? Do we seek to bring Him glory or our own? How can we hear and share His Word if our own lives are not transformed by it? Do we live in truth?

Some of us have a genuine love for our Lord and yet struggle with our faith. We have good, bright sunny days where we walk with our Lord and He walks with us. But when the storms of life start brewing and the skies begin to darken. Fear grips our hearts and we start to question, “where is my Lord, my God?”

Jesus my Lord, let me build my relationship and my life on the foundation of Your Word and Your Love. So that rain or shine, in good times or in bad. I will sail through with You deep in my heart. Amen

First Reading
Jer 28:1-17

GOSPEL
Matthew 14:22–36

Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and precede him to the other side of the sea, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. “It is a ghost,” they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” Peter said to him in reply, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, “Truly, you are the Son of God.”

After making the crossing, they came to land at Gennesaret. When the men of that place recognized him, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought to him all those who were sick and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak, and as many as touched it were healed.

We are drawn to the truth for it is life giving and freeing. The same way we are drawn to people who tell the truth so long as the truth is not about us or our way of lives. Why is that? Why do we shy away? Why is the truth about us so difficult to accept? Is it possible that it is sin that blinds us? That our relationship with the Holy Trinity is left wanting? We are lukewarm?

We build altars and sanctuaries and make plans for worship but do we actually go? Do we have God our Father in our minds when we pray, or are our prayers only about us, our family and our friends? Do we truly want our heavenly Father in our lives or just the idea of Him? Do we kill the spirit of those sent by Him to speak to our hearts?

Jesus my Lord help me to always embrace truth in my life; for it is a truth of Your love for me. A truth which will lead me home to You. Amen

FIRST READING
Jeremiah 26:11–16, 24

GOSPEL
Matthew 14:1–12

Herod the tetrarch heard of the reputation of Jesus and said to his servants, “This man is John the Baptist. He has been raised from the dead; that is why mighty powers are at work in him.”

Now Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, for John had said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” Although he wanted to kill him, he feared the people, for they regarded him as a prophet. But at a birthday celebration for Herod, the daughter of Herodias performed a dance before the guests and delighted Herod so much that he swore to give her whatever she might ask for. Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests who were present, he ordered that it be given, and he had John beheaded in the prison. His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who took it to her mother. His disciples came and took away the corpse and buried him; and they went and told Jesus.

How the tide has turned, for once upon a time I was very much with the crowd. I sang pretty much the same tune. And yet send you did indeed, one or two family members, priests, people close, familiar to me and even strangers to call me to repentance. And more often You ensured that they did so subtly and gently. Would I listen at the time? No! For it was easier to find fault with them, their logic, their own way of life, their relationships. Gossip would quash their efforts and if not then I would just stay away or walk away. Sin had a hold on me, for it was far more alluring.

Then like the prodigal son, I too saw the better life You my heavenly Father had to offer. I came prostrating myself before You ashamed and sorrowful, feeling unworthy to be in Your presence. But with Your powerful arms You lifted me up and embraced me lovingly and I was restored. I am and always be Your child.

Jesus my Lord, thank You for showing me the way. Let me be the light for others as You have been for me. I will not be discouraged in the face of rejection, for I know that there will be great rejoicing in heaven for that one sinner led back home. For I was that sinner. Amen

FIRST READING
Jeremiah 26:1–9

GOSPEL
Matthew 13:54–58

Jesus came to his native place and taught the people in their synagogue. They were astonished and said, “Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds? Is he not the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother named Mary and his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas? Are not his sisters all with us? Where did this man get all this?” And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and in his own house.” And he did not work many mighty deeds there because of their lack of faith.

Thank you Abba Father for your mercy on me, You have been kind and patient. When I was bent out of shape and would have been discarded by most, it was You who guided me and moulded me. You loved me in spite of my offenses against Your Will for me. You saw the good in me and looked upon my strengths and not my weaknesses. Truly I had not experienced such unconditional love before.

Throughout the ages, Your saving Word O Lord has been upon us. A living Word which transform and gives new life to all who receive it. One which transcends time for Your Word is eternal. And yet what is considered old in our minds illuminates the new and gives it new meaning, new dimensions, greater depths. Thank You Jesus for allowing all of us who have opened our hearts and minds to You, the oppprtunity to fall deeply in love with You; our living Word. And through You we bring forth and share the old and the new with all.

Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done for now and forever. Amen

FIRST READING
Jeremiah 18:1–6

GOSPEL
Matthew 13:47–53

Jesus said to the disciples:
“The Kingdom of heaven is like a net thrown into the sea, which collects fish of every kind. When it is full they haul it ashore and sit down to put what is good into buckets. What is bad they throw away. Thus it will be at the end of the age. The angels will go out and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.”

“Do you understand all these things?” They answered, “Yes.” And he replied, “Then every scribe who has been instructed in the Kingdom of heaven is like the head of a household who brings from his storeroom both the new and the old.” When Jesus finished these parables, he went away from there.

I remember how it was, when I use to sit in the company of people I called friends who were vulgar in words and actions. It was fun and a rather carefree time, where we did and said what we wanted without restraint. But all the happiness in those times were fleeting and it left us with emptiness.

Then as I surrendered myself to the Lord and grew in holiness; I found that all that I had done in the past were distasteful and contrary to what my heavenly Father wanted for me. I was looking for love and happiness in all the wrong places.

I have found the most precious and priceless treasure there is to find, my Lord and my God! Life has meaning and so has death. Peace, love and joy surrounds my days. And even though I have to go through some trying days I do so not alone but with my Lord and I am comforted.

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

FIRST READING
Jeremiah 15:10, 16–21

GOSPEL
Matthew 13:44–46

Jesus said to his disciples:
“The Kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the Kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it.”

We want peace and joy in our lives but do we reject the one Who can give it freely to us? Do we turn back to Him when we have sinned? Or only when the consequences start overpowering us? Or even not at all? Still our heavenly Father patiently waits for your return.

So great is His love for us that He sent His Son to save us. To teach, guide us and show us the way home to Him. He gives us enough time to repent and come back to Him for He always wants the best for us. To live life to the fullest and experience true joy, love and peace. Do we still want a life separated from Him? Do we think we still have tomorrow? Do we truly love our Lord and God? Do we keep Him in mind throughout or at the very least part of the day? Do we thank and praise Him with grateful hearts for the many blesssings He showers on us? Or has it become ritualistic in our lives like saying grace before meals with absent minds and hearts?

Jesus my Lord, I want a life with You. Thank You for being there for me, I love You. Amen

FIRST READING
Jeremiah 14:17–22

GOSPEL
Matthew 13:36–43

Jesus dismissed the crowds and went into the house. His disciples approached him and said, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field.” He said in reply, “He who sows good seed is the Son of Man, the field is the world, the good seed the children of the Kingdom. The weeds are the children of the Evil One, and the enemy who sows them is the Devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. Just as weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his Kingdom all who cause others to sin and all evildoers. They will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears ought to hear.”

Oh how many still stay away from God thinking they want to enjoy life to the fullest and that a relationship with Him will hinder and stifle them! They stubbornly close their eyes, ears and hearts to our heavenly Father’s call for an intimate loving relationship with Him. Of Whom all life and goodness comes. A loving Father wanting only the best for His children.

How can we say we are useless or are of little value? We are all children of our heavenly Father! Made in His image, destined for greatness through a life of holiness.

We can make such an impact in each others lives. If we but grow in His love, in His Word, in His ways. We can bring comfort and hope when there is none. Nourishment to those in need, healing for those who suffer. Jesus our Lord enables our tiny limited hearts to grow in capacity, we can love with His limitless love. Amen

FIRST READING
Jeremiah 13:1–11

GOSPEL
Matthew 13:31–35

Jesus proposed a parable to the crowds.
“The Kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that a person took and sowed in a field. It is the smallest of all the seeds, yet when full–grown it is the largest of plants. It becomes a large bush, and the birds of the sky come and dwell in its branches.”

He spoke to them another parable. “The Kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch was leavened.”

All these things Jesus spoke to the crowds in parables. He spoke to them only in parables, to fulfill what had been said through the prophet:

I will open my mouth in parables, I will announce what has lain hidden from the foundation of the world.

The greatest gift I can give my children, family and friends is the Word of God. And to facilitate encounters with our heavenly Father, His Son and the Holy Spirit. Knowing that I can only do this through my very own loving and living example of holiness. For the grace of God is upon me.

Then they too can see what I see and hear what I hear. Amen

Feast – St Joachim And St Anne Parents of our Blessed Mother Mary

FIRST READING
Sirach 44:1, 10–15

GOSPEL
Matthew13:16–17

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Blessed are your eyes, because they see, and your ears, because they hear. Amen, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.”

Empty vessels make the most noise! How we often hear people finding fault with the Church, the priests, religious, ministry members, lay persons even the pope. Some of these may even be well versed in scripture passages. But do they have an authentic relationship with the Holy Trinity? How many lost sheep have they brought back into the fold? How many have been brought close to God in a deep meaningful way?

If we hold the treasure of the Word deep in our hearts, we have the spirit, love and truth in us. And even through afflictions, hardships and toil, we will serve our Lord and brethren with joy. We can unite our sacrifices with the perfect sacrifice of our Lord Jesus so that, whatever we do;will be for the glory and praise of our heavenly Father. And when our earthly form comes to pass, we will be if our Lord in paradise. Amen

(Feast – St James The Apostle)
FIRST READING
2 Corinthians 4:7–15

GOSPEL
Matthew 20:20–28

The mother of the sons of Zebedee approached Jesus with her sons and did him homage, wishing to ask him for something. He said to her, “What do you wish?” She answered him, “Command that these two sons of mine sit, one at your right and the other at your left, in your Kingdom.” Jesus said in reply, “You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?” They said to him, “We can.” He replied, “My chalice you will indeed drink, but to sit at my right and at my left, this is not mine to give but is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” When the ten heard this, they became indignant at the two brothers. But Jesus summoned them and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and the great ones make their authority over them felt. But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave. Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

The Eucharistic celebration, the sacraments, the Church, it’s traditions, it’s teachings even the Word of God is meaningless, senseless and useless if we are separated from our groom. How can we see the value in them? Of how priceless and precious they are? If we do not see or hear the source? The living water, eternal fountain! How can our hearts receive Him if it is not prepared to receive Him?

How sad it is that some have heard and responded to our Lord’s call but have leaky cisterns. While they may contain the living water for a while, they are not able to hold on to it. While others who can hold on for much longer never have depth or a complete understanding. They had decided to pick and choose and understand only what they are familiar with and hold true to them.

There is hope that if we so desire to know the Word of God, to see, hear and understand. We can turn to Him our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, He will heal and transform us so that we may enter into life with Him and ALL will be open to us!

Abba Father I adore You! Lord Jesus, I adore You! O Holy Spirit I adore You! Teach and guide me that I may know and understand Your Word and Your Will for me. Let me worship You in heart, word and deed. Amen

FIRST READING
Jeremiah 2:1–3, 7–8, 12–13

GOSPEL
Matthew 13:10–17

The disciples approached Jesus and said,
“Why do you speak to the crowd in parables?” He said to them in reply, “Because knowledge of the mysteries of the Kingdom of heaven has been granted to you, but to them it has not been granted. To anyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; from anyone who has not, even what he has will be taken away. This is why I speak to them in parables, because they look but do not see and hear but do not listen or understand. Isaiah’s prophecy is fulfilled in them, which says:

You shall indeed hear but not understand, you shall indeed look but never see. Gross is the heart of this people, they will hardly hear with their ears, they have closed their eyes, lest they see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their hearts and be converted and I heal them.

“But blessed are your eyes, because they see, and your ears, because they hear. Amen, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.”

O the Word of my Lord, deep within my being. O the Word of my Lord you have filled my mind! Beautiful lyrics taken from the song of a young prophet. But how many of us have truly allowed the Word of God to penetrate deep into our hearts, to reflect and chew on His Word; so that we can know His Will and experience His love?

Are our ears shut? If not then do we allow worldly distractions, desires and wants to drive the Word away from us? Do we turn a deaf ear to our loving Father Who has loved and held us in His hands before we were even born?

I love and embrace You my sweet Jesus, Your Word I hold deep in my heart. Let be bear much fruit and grant me the Graces necessary to bring Your Word to all. Amen

FIRST READING
Jeremiah 1:1, 4–10

GOSPEL
Matthew 13:1–9

On that day, Jesus went out of the house and sat down by the sea. Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat down, and the whole crowd stood along the shore. And he spoke to them at length in parables, saying: “A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path, and birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky ground, where it had little soil. It sprang up at once because the soil was not deep, and when the sun rose it was scorched, and it withered for lack of roots. Some seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it. But some seed fell on rich soil, and produced fruit, a hundred or sixty or thirtyfold. Whoever has ears ought to hear.”

We declare joyfully that we are children of God, but how many of us have truly reflected on what this means for us? Do we still squander away our heavenly inheritance? Do we honour our heavenly Father by the lives we lead? Or do we insist on leading our lives contrary to His loving Will for us?

Merciful Father be patient with us.

Jesus our Lord so loved and honoured His blessed mother that He entrusted her to the care of His disciple. And by so doing, she too is a mother for us all. Through Him we become one body, one Holy family. Let us then be faithful children who does the Will of our heavenly Father as we lead those who have strayed back into life of holiness in Christ. Amen

FIRST READING
Micah 7:14–15, 18–20

GOSPEL
Matthew 12:46–50

While Jesus was speaking to the crowds, his mother and his brothers appeared outside, wishing to speak with him. Someone told him, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, asking to speak with you.” But he said in reply to the one who told him, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my heavenly Father is my brother, and sister, and mother.”

How will you see the wonders of God our Father if you would not open your eyes? How can you understand the signs He gives you, if your heart and mind are closed? How do you hear His Word when you are not ready to listen? Why do you question and yet are not willing to receive the answers?

Have you not heard the calling? To holiness? To act justly, to love tenderly and to walk humbly before God your Father.

Lord Jesus thank you from liberating me from sin, so that I may see, feel and touch everything that comes from You. You are all I will ever need and through You I am able to offer my life up in servitude to my heavenly Father and my brethren. Amen

FIRST READING
Micah 6:1–4, 6–8

GOSPEL
Matthew 12:38–42

Some of the scribes and Pharisees said to Jesus, “Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you.” He said to them in reply, “An evil and unfaithful generation seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it except the sign of Jonah the prophet. Just as Jonah was in the belly of the whale three days and three nights, so will the Son of Man be in the heart of the earth three days and three nights. At the judgment, the men of Nineveh will arise with this generation and condemn it, because they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and there is something greater than Jonah here. At the judgment the queen of the south will arise with this generation and condemn it, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and there is something greater than Solomon here.”

On our own we are a flawed race often looking for an easy way out. It is far easier to hate than to love, far easier to take revenge than to forgive. It is far easier to steal than to work for what we want, far easier to give in to immoral desires than to remain chaste. And so it is far easier to die than to live; for by our choices we face eternal death.

Who knows us better than our loving Father in heaven? Why does He love us so much? Why does He love us still?

Jesus our Lord was sent to us to save us. That we would know that we are not alone. We do not need to go through life alone and afraid, for He is with us. And He gives us all that we will ever need to be with Him forever. He is the Truth, the way to eternal life. And all we need to do is turn our hearts to Him and follow Him. Amen

FIRST READING
Micah 2:1–5

GOSPEL
Matthew 12:14–21

The Pharisees went out and took counsel against Jesus to put him to death.

When Jesus realized this, he withdrew from that place. Many people followed him, and he cured them all, but he warned them not to make him known. This was to fulfill what had been spoken through Isaiah the prophet:

Behold, my servant whom I have chosen, my beloved in whom I delight; I shall place my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles. He will not contend or cry out, nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, a smoldering wick he will not quench, until he brings justice to victory. And in his name the Gentiles will hope.

Praise be almighty God our Father, for He hears our cries for mercy. And answers our prayers with mercy and love. He patiently waits for us to be ready like a Father who will not push His child till the child is ready to walk.

Do we extend that same mercy we pray so earnestly to our heavenly Father for, to our brethren? Do we let the faults blind us from seeing the person? Is our love conditional? Yet do we not want for ourselves unconditional love?

Lord teach me Your merciful ways, let Your love for me be the same love I give to my brethren. Amen

FIRST READING
Isaiah 38:1–6, 21–22, 7–8

GOSPEL
Matthew 12:1–8

Jesus was going through a field of grain on the sabbath. His disciples were hungry and began to pick the heads of grain and eat them. When the Pharisees saw this, they said to him, “See, your disciples are doing what is unlawful to do on the sabbath.” He said to the them, “Have you not read what David did when he and his companions were hungry, how he went into the house of God and ate the bread of offering, which neither he nor his companions but only the priests could lawfully eat? Or have you not read in the law that on the sabbath the priests serving in the temple violate the sabbath and are innocent? I say to you, something greater than the temple is here. If you knew what this meant, I desire mercy, not sacrifice, you would not have condemned these innocent men. For the Son of Man is Lord of the sabbath.”

When it seems we are living our lives one crisis to the next. Where every path we take is rocky and gloomy. Where peace and joy are missing in our lives. We can know that our Lord is absent in our lives. We have turned our backs on Him and sin has entered our hearts. Are we then doomed forever as we feel? Are our sins too heinous for God to forgive us?

Our and merciful Lord is calling ALL of us to Him, even those who have committed the most deplorable and evils acts of sin. ”Come to me, as you are, do not wait any longer nor do you need to change first. Come to me and I will embrace you, I will take all the evil from you, I will be the one to transform you. And I will give you my peace, love and joy.”

Lord I take upon myself Your yoke, to pave the way so that the seeds of love and knowledge of You may be planted. And upon maturity, the plentiful harvest may be brought into Your Kingdom. I have no fear in this undertaking Lord, for I know You are with me on this journey through it all, the thick as well as the thin. And if I should require rest Lord, then allow me to rest in You. Amen

FIRST READING
Isaiah 26:7–9, 12, 16–19

GOSPEL
Matthew 11:28–30

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

We draw all wisdom, strength and courage from our heavenly Father and are able to do many great things. Yet do we offer praise and thanks? Or do we lord it over others thinking we did it all on our own?

It is when we are humble and possess the heart of child who reaches out to hold the hand of our Father in heaven, that we are led to the depths of a wonderful relationship with Him. Jesus makes this possible for through Him we are washed clean, through Him we know much of our heavenly Father, for to know Him is to know the Father.

Let us never take this great and wonderful relationship for granted and strive to always grow in it. For we know that no matter what comes our way, our Lord and God will never abandon us. Glory be to God on High!

FIRST READING
Isaiah 10:5–7, 13b–16

GOSPEL
Matthew 11:25–27

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

We need to grow in our faith to such a degree that we stand firm. Otherwise we will easily be blown away by lustful desires, temptations and sin. Or else we will lose it in a crisis.

Our loving Saviour laments over the hard heartedness of those who refuse to listen to His call for repentance. For He sees the terrible end results for them. He therefore wants to draw everyone to Him, to save us all. He wants all of us to embrace love instead of wickedness so that He can give us His Grace and peace. Amen

FIRST READING
Isaiah 7:1–9

GOSPEL
Matthew 11:20–24

Jesus began to reproach the towns where most of his mighty deeds had been done, since they had not heard “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For it and I f the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented in sackcloth and ashes. But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. And as for you, Capernaum:

Will you be exalted to heaven? You will go down to the netherworld.

For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.”

No amount of love offerings, money or food can ever buy us our way into heaven. Nor can it be an atonement for our sins. We need first to love God enough to be truly sorry for our sins. For what we have done and what we failed to do. For having offended Him by our evil choices over all that is good.

To love our Heavenly Father is to love His Son our Lord and redeemer Jesus Christ. Who came to liberate us from our sins and to guide us Home to Him. To love Jesus is to to love the Word and the truth which unites all the faithful and separates us from non believers even family. And the love we have for our one triune God is the love we will have for our brethren wherever they may be.

Let us reject evil and remain faithful disciples of our Lord and God. Amen

FIRST READING
Isaiah 1:10–17

GOSPEL
Matthew 10:34–11:1

Jesus said to his Apostles:
“Do not think that I have come to bring peace upon the earth. I have come to bring not peace but the sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter–in–law against her mother–in–law; and one’s enemies will be those of his household.

“Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.

“Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. Whoever receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever receives a righteous man because he is righteous will receive a righteous man’s reward. And whoever gives only a cup of cold water to one of these little ones to drink because he is a disciple– amen, I say to you, he will surely not lose his reward.”

When Jesus finished giving these commands to his Twelve disciples, he went away from that place to teach and to preach in their towns.

Is my faith a private one between me and God my Father alone? Am I to be silent when I witness and injustice? Do I not speak out against wrong doings and practices especially within my own home? Am I holy myself? Have I gone often for the sacrament of reconciliation? So that I can stand ready to do God’s Will? Ready to spread His message of love and mercy?

Here I am Lord!

Why should I be afraid to proclaim the Gospel? Why should I speak softly afraid others might hear? Is it not the truth I speak? The only one I should be wary of is the Evil One who will try try to take me away from my Lord. But even he has no hold over me because I have chosen to walk with the Lord and He walks with me. I am under God’s protection, so that even if I lay down my life in service of my Lord; into His hands I commend my spirit. Amen

Here I am Lord, I’ve come to do Your Will!

FIRST READING
Isaiah 6:1–8

GOSPEL
Matthew 10:24–33

Jesus said to his Apostles:
“No disciple is above his teacher, no slave above his master. It is enough for the disciple that he become like his teacher, for the slave that he become like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more those of his household! “Therefore do not be afraid of them. Nothing is concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. What I say to you in the darkness, speak in the light; what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna. Are not two sparrows sold for a small coin? Yet not one of them falls to the ground without your Father’s knowledge. Even all the hairs of your head are counted. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. Everyone who acknowledges me before others I will acknowledge before my heavenly Father. But whoever denies me before others, I will deny before my heavenly Father.”

How often must we fall before we learn to walk upright? Do we not feel ashamed and want to do better? Do we not want to be stronger? More courageous? Loving and kind? O heavenly Father wash our sins away that we may be white as snow! Teach and help us to walk on Your straight paths that we may fall no more.

When we walk in faith, the peace and love of Christ in our hearts; stirs in us a desire to share our faith with others. The more outspoken we are about Kingdom of God, the Love, the truth and the light through which Jesus brings forth, the greater the need, want and resolve for the World to silence us. We need not be discouraged, fearful nor worry about what to say even especially in front of the learned or those in positions. For we have the Holy Spirit with us and nothing is impossible. Let us walk in the steadfast love of our Lord always bringing His truth and light to all, in love and charity. Knowing that He will guide us through it all and give us the wisdom prevail. Amen

FIRST READING
Hosea 14:2–10

GOSPEL
Matthew 10:16–23

Jesus said to his Apostles:
“Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves. But 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. When they persecute you in one town, flee to another. Amen, I say to you, you will not finish the towns of Israel before the Son of Man comes.”

We seem confident in calling out, “Abba Father” in our prayer and reflection. But how many truly see Him as a loving and merciful Father? How many are respectful and reverent before Him? Especially in His house of worship, be it in word, deed or dress? How many praise and thank Him daily for all that He has blessed us with? Food, clothing, shelter, wisdom, knowledge and so many other abundant gifts. How many listen to His call for repentance for the errors of our ways? How many have turned away from His loving embrace?

Knowing and loving our heavenly Father is to place all our trust and faith in Him. For He will surely provide for all that we need. Our Lord Jesus today commands us to put our faith and love into action. To go and proclaim the Gospel, to reach out in love and kindness to those afflicted in body, mind and soul. To build relationships through Him so that His peace and love may be manifested to all. Judgement will be upon those who reject the Word. Amen

FIRST READING
Hosea 11:1–4, 8e–9

Gospel
Mt 10:7-15

Jesus said to his Apostles: “As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give. Do not take gold or silver or copper for your belts; no sack for the journey, or a second tunic, or sandals, or walking stick. The laborer deserves his keep. Whatever town or village you enter, look for a worthy person in it, and stay there until you leave. As you enter a house, wish it peace. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; if not, let your peace return to you. Whoever will not receive you or listen to your words — go outside that house or town and shake the dust from your feet. Amen, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.”

Where is our heart in our worship of God our Father? Do we attend the Eucharistic celebration out of obligation? When we have the time? When it does not interfere with our personal plans or travel? Do we pray or come to the Lord only in times of crisis? Do we bargain with Him by saying Lord if you let me win in the lottery I promise to give half to Your Church? Do we still think today as some of God’s children did in the past, that the Kingdom of God is far away and that there is lots of time?

The joyful message is the same today as it was of old, and that is the Kingdom of heaven is at hand. And just like the Apostles who were common folk, we too have been chosen to proclaim the Gospel. To use the many gifts and talents that we have been given to liberate others from the hold of evil, to lead them to repentance. To heal them of their afflictions and to lead His flock into the light of His glory all through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

FIRST READING
Hosea 10:1–3, 7–8, 12

GOSPEL
Matthew 10:1–7

Jesus summoned his Twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits to drive them out and to cure every disease and every illness. The names of the Twelve Apostles are these: first, Simon called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James, the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddeus; Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot who betrayed Jesus.

Jesus sent out these Twelve after instructing them thus, “Do not go into pagan territory or enter a Samaritan town. Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’“

No matter how obstinate and sinful we are, our loving Father still reaches out His hand to us. Beckoning for us to come back to Him. Warning us of the impending doom that awaits us if we refuse to turn away from evil and sin. Our own destruction is in our hands and yet our Father would readily take it away from us if we were willing to give it to Him.

O how evil and sin silences us, that we are unable to give glory, praise and thanks to our Heavenly Father. So too are we unable to cry to our Lord for help. And yet so merciful and kind is our loving Lord that He liberates us from the Evil that holds us. So that we have a chance of new life in Him. Do we then sing His praises for the new life we lead or do we fall back into our old ways of cursing and swearing?

While we continue to pray for vocations into the ministerial priesthood and religious life. Let us remember that we are called to be priest, prophet and king for one another. To do the Lord’s work and share the good news of God’s love for us; and to lead one another home to our heavenly Father. Amen

FIRST READING
Hosea 8:4–7, 11–13

GOSPEL
Matthew 9:32–38

A demoniac who could not speak was brought to Jesus, and when the demon was driven out the mute man spoke. The crowds were amazed and said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.” But the Pharisees said, “He drives out demons by the prince of demons.”

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

A call to holiness is one which allows us to be in perfect union with our heavenly Father. Love, fidelity, trust and growth are hallmarks of that covenantal relationship. Out of which divine peace and joy flows.

What hope is there for us who think ourselves unclean or unworthy? Drained by the burdens of living in the world? Lifeless and listless? Jesus! He is our hope our redeemer. He invites us to come to Him in faith and He will heal and restore us. He will give us life!

There will always be those who mock us for having such faith in our Lord and our God, for they have yet to encounter Him as we have. Let us continue to pray for them whose hearts are not yet cast in stone. And let us remain faithful beacons of love for all. Amen

FIRST READING
Hosea 2:16, 17c–18, 21–22

GOSPEL
Matthew 9:18–26

While Jesus was speaking, an official came forward, knelt down before him, and said, “My daughter has just died. But come, lay your hand on her, and she will live.” Jesus rose and followed him, and so did his disciples. A woman suffering hemorrhages for twelve years came up behind him and touched the tassel on his cloak. She said to herself, “If only I can touch his cloak, I shall be cured.” Jesus turned around and saw her, and said, “Courage, daughter! Your faith has saved you.” And from that hour the woman was cured.

When Jesus arrived at the official’s house and saw the flute players and the crowd who were making a commotion, he said, “Go away! The girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they ridiculed him. When the crowd was put out, he came and took her by the hand, and the little girl arose. And news of this spread throughout all that land.

Our heavenly Father seeks not to destroy but to build. To restore what was lost and to give us back our share of the heavenly inheritance;for which we squander away when we live in the world.

There are times for devotions, observances even formation. But there also times to put our faith into action. To love and live out the Gospels in our daily lives. And for that we need to embrace the fact that we don’t know it all, and that if we want to we can go deeper and deeper into our faith. We are limited only by the capacity we set for ourselves, instead of allowing our Lord to set it and fill us with the Graces we need to grow.

May we always remain steadfast in our faith and love for our Lord. Always eager to learn, live and serve our Lord and our brethren. Amen

FIRST READING
Amos 9:11–15

GOSPEL
Matthew 9:14–17

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. No one patches an old cloak with a piece of unshrunken cloth, for its fullness pulls away from the cloak and the tear gets worse. People do not put new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise the skins burst, the wine spills out, and the skins are ruined. Rather, they pour new wine into fresh wineskins, and both are preserved.”

How are we holy people of God? When we conform our hearts desires to that of our heavenly Father. When our thoughts, words and deeds are Christ centred and bring glory to our Lord and God. When we are merciful towards others, especially those who have hurt us deeply.

If God is in our hearts, will we not be careful with what we say? Will we allows gossips to start with our seemingly innocent questions about another or their actions? Will we be quick to judge others?

Jesus, my Lord, let my love for You be reflected in all I say and do. Let me always be merciful and faithful as I listen to Your Word. Amen

FIRST READING
Amos 8:4–6, 9–12

GOSPEL
Matthew 9:9–13

As Jesus passed by,
he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. He said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him. While he was at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat with Jesus and his disciples. The Pharisees saw this and said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” He heard this and said, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. Go and learn the meaning of the words,
I desire mercy, not sacrifice.
I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”

Have we yet embraced the many different sisters and brothers we have under our heavenly Father? Or do we still cling to what or whom we are familiar with? Preferring always to having fellowship only with whom we know or in some cases our own race? If so then perhaps we have not fallen deeply in love with Jesus our Lord and have not progressed witth our relationship with Him. Our very own capacity to love is limited but when we love with the love of Christ in us, our heart swells and soon we find we can love one another unconditionally.

Our beloved St Thomas truly loved Jesus very much and he was traumatised by the death of his master. How many of us too have been traumatised in our lives and had at one point lost our faith? Perhaps the foundation of our faith was not really strong to begin with or we allowed the distractions of the world to take our focus off our Lord. But then when we pray for our faith to increase and for Jesus to come, He does! And like St Thomas we too exclaim with all our hearts, “My Lord, my God!” How much more did St Thomas love our Lord with the love of Jesus in him? Well he travelled all the way in love to India a foreign land where he did not speak a word of the native language. To share the love and message of His Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Then thereafter planting the seeds of love, he laid down his life for Jesus by embracing martyrdom.

St Thomas pray for us, that like you we may be courageous and steadfast in our love for our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen

(Saint Thomas, Apostle – Feast; St. Thomas, Apostle)

FIRST READING
Ephesians 2:19–22

GOSPEL
John 20:24–29

Thomas, called Didymus, one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples said to him, “We have seen the Lord.” But Thomas said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nailmarks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” Now a week later his disciples were again inside and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, although the doors were locked, and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands, and bring your hand and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe.” Thomas answered and said to him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”

Every Eucharistic Celebration is an opportunity to go before the altar and give thanks to our Heavenly Father and to receive Jesus and the many graces He bestows upon us. How many actually offer up sacrifices of themselves? The works of mercy they had performed in Jesus’ name the week before? Sharing the joy of the Gospel or the call to repentance? Attending and participating in the Eucharistic Celebration not out of obligation but of a desire to love and be loved by our heavenly Father?

In Holy Communion we receive Jesus, but how many know that Jesus is receiving us too? How many go up and ‘take’ but are not ready to be received by Him? Where is the exchange? The authentic communion? How are we then in communion with one another? How are we then one body in Christ?

If we are truly in Christ evil has NO power to prevail over us! For in His name we have the power to rebuke and cast out evil. We have no desire to return to our old sinful lives but to live a transformed and fruitful life in our Lord. Our only desire is to honour,love and serve Him all the days of lives. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Amen

FIRST READING
Amos 5:14–15, 21–24

GOSPEL
Matthew 8:28–34

When Jesus came to the territory of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs who were coming from the tombs met him. They were so savage that no one could travel by that road. They cried out, “What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the appointed time?” Some distance away a herd of many swine was feeding. The demons pleaded with him, “If you drive us out, send us into the herd of swine.” And he said to them, “Go then!” They came out and entered the swine, and the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea where they drowned. The swineherds ran away, and when they came to the town they reported everything, including what had happened to the demoniacs. Thereupon the whole town came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him they begged him to leave their district.

You are indeed merciful O mighty Father. For as often as we have turned our backs on You, still You call out to us. You give us ample warning and time to come back to You. Forgive us Father for being slow to change. And if we refuse by our own accord not to ever heed Your call then we truly deserve what You allow to happen to us.

Jesus my Lord, if we choose to walk the narrow road according to our Father’s Will; You are with us. By Your grace may we have complete trust in You as You have in the Father. So that we too can sleep in His loving embrace amidst all storms in our life. Amen

FIRST READING
Amos 3:1–8; 4:11–12

GOSPEL
Matthew 8:23–27

As Jesus got into a boat, his disciples followed him. Suddenly a violent storm came up on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by waves; but he was asleep. They came and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We are perishing!” He said to them, “Why are you terrified, O you of little faith?” Then he got up, rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was great calm. The men were amazed and said, “What sort of man is this, whom even the winds and the sea obey?”

Our hearts turn to stone when refuse to allow God into our lives. When we ignore His call for repentance and turn our backs on His statutes and commandments. We give evil free reign for we have cut ourselves off from the source of all that is good, all that is love. A spark will set off raging fires; untempered passions, wanton desires, fiery tempers even idolatry. We have died and yet we don’t even know it.

Our hearts are restless till we rest in Him, for His yoke is easy and His burden light. Following Jesus is a joyous affair, filled with peace and love however it is not without hardship or toil. We are often called to put aside and sometimes give up material comforts in loving surrender. To roll up our sleeves and throw ourselves into the grunt and grind of servitude. To leave behind dead weights and dead spirits. So that we might constantly renew ourselves in Him. And bear fruit worthy of our heavenly Father.

Jesus lead us home. Amen

FIRST READING
Amos 2:6–10, 13–16

GOSPEL
Matthew 8:18–22

When Jesus saw a crowd around him, he gave orders to cross to the other shore. A scribe approached and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” Jesus answered him, “Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.” Another of his disciples said to him, “Lord, let me go first and bury my father.” But Jesus answered him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their dead.”

Just knowing that we are unworthy to come before the Lord our is not enough. We must come before Him with a contrite heart wanting to change. And know without reservation that in His great mercy and love, He will forgive and heal us.

He loves us as we are and beckons us to come before Him as we are. He will heal our brokenness, it is He who will liberate us from our sins. He will transform us and fill us with His grace and love.

It is in the faith of knowing our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ. It is by and through Him that we are made worthy of being in the presence of our heavenly Father. Amen

FIRST READING
Lamentations 2:2, 10–14, 18–19

GOSPEL
Matthew 8:5–17

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

Jesus entered the house of Peter, and saw his mother–in–law lying in bed with a fever. He touched her hand, the fever left her, and she rose and waited on him.

When it was evening, they brought him many who were possessed by demons, and he drove out the spirits by a word and cured all the sick, to fulfill what had been said by Isaiah the prophet:

He took away our infirmities and bore our diseases.

Our hearts are frail and our love is limited in capacity. And still our God Whom is love, loves us more than we can ever grasp. So when we open our hearts to Him with sorrow in our hearts for our sins, He embraces us and fills us with His ever flowing abundant love.

We can truly love, because we have the love of Christ in us. The love of the divine sacred heart of Jesus flows through us; for we are consecrated in Him. Let us take on His yoke in humble servitude. Amen

Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

FIRST READING
Deuteronomy 7:6–11

SECOND READING
1 John 4:7–16

GOSPEL
Matthew 11:25–30

At that time Jesus exclaimed:
“I give praise to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to little ones. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him.

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

Why have so many turned their backs on God? Do those who lead comfortable lives without Him think that it will last forever? Do they only seek Him when tragedies have befallen them? Do they expect to be listened to without a repentant heart?

For those of us who think ourselves disciples of Christ ; to what extent have we built our foundation on Him? Have we built it upon His Word? Feeding upon it and nourishing our lives? Have we built it on a prayer life? Where we offer our bodies and souls in prayer? Praising and thanking Him in all that we do? Have we built it on His love? Hence do we emulate our Servant King in our lives by serving our brethren in loving humility and great charity? Have we built it upon His truth? Always speaking up for it? Quashing indifference and lies? Have we built it upon a sacramental life drawing on the Lord’s strength?

Let us pray that we will always declare, “O Lord, my God I’ve come to do Your Will.” Amen

FIRST READING
2 Kings 24:8–17

GOSPEL
Matthew 7:21–29

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name? Did we not drive out demons in your name? Did we not do mighty deeds in your name?’ Then I will declare to them solemnly, ‘I never knew you. Depart from me, you evildoers.’

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

When Jesus finished these words, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.

How sensitive are we to God’s prompting to turn away from Sin? To be reconciled with Him? If only we respond to the Word of God, to tear ourselves from the old ways in which we lead miserable lives in Sin. O how joyful we will be! To have our Lord walk with us once again.

How then can we discern good from bad? We can only do so when we walk with the Lord, when we make up our minds to remain faithful to the Word of God; and to turn our backs to Sin. The fruits we bear come from within and it comes forth with joy, peace and love. The same fruits we easily recognise in our brethren.

Let us be fruits of the vine of our Heavenly Father Amen

FIRST READING
2 Kings 22:8–13; 23:1–3

GOSPEL
Matthew 7:15–20

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but underneath are ravenous wolves. By their fruits you will know them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Just so, every good tree bears good fruit, and a rotten tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a rotten tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. So by their fruits you will know them.”

When we approach the Holy Word of God in the Bible with reverence, prayer and a contrite spirit. We find that change in us is inevitable. We desire the mercy of God for our transgressions. We are moved towards Holiness and with it comes peace, love and joy.

Some in need of guidance and instruction may turn to the first person they deem holy in demeanor or appearance. However it is better to discern a choice through prayer, promptings of the Holy Spirit and a keen observation. They need to ask themselves, do the words that comes forth encourage or move you closer to God? Do you feel a sense of peace? Does even the firm tone and choice of words stir in you a change for the better? Or do you more frequently end up feeling uneasy, distraught and queasy Or maybe just emptiness seem to envelop you.

Today we call to mind the birth of the prophet of God most high. Let the spirit of God in him be born in us, so that we too may Herald the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ into the lives of others as we prepare them to receive Him. To help them embrace the Lord in reconciliation and to lead them into a life of holiness. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

(The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist – Solemnity)

( FIRST READING Isaiah 49:1–6,  SECOND READING
Acts 13:22–26,  GOSPEL Luke 1:57–66, 80)

First Reading
2 Kgs 22:8-13; 23:1-3

Gospel
Mt 7:15-20

Jesus said to his disciples: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but underneath are ravenous wolves. By their fruits you will know them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Just so, every good tree bears good fruit, and a rotten tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a rotten tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. So by their fruits you will know them.”

God is patient, God is kind, but how can our loving Father reach us if we will not listen? If we will not follow His commandments? We may not utter it out loud but our life choices, our actions, our attitudes towards others all scream out to Him, “I don’t want You in my life!” Are we then surprised when He is truly absent in our lives?

Have you observed children playing and after a while some may end up quarreling? One may shout at the top of his lungs, “You’re a cheat! you crossed the line!” And the other might respond, “Why should I listen to you when you kept doing it yourself? You’re the cheater!”

Yes we are called to lead one another to holiness and there will be times when we will need to admonish one in love and truth. But we can only do so in with Jesus and in Jesus, hence we need to constantly examine our own conscience and be reconciled with our heavenly Father.

Let us all be Holy as our heavenly Father is Holy. Amen

FIRST READING
2 Kings 17:5–8, 13–15a, 18

GOSPEL
Matthew 7:1–5

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Stop judging, that you may not be judged. For as you judge, so will you be judged, and the measure with which you measure will be measured out to you. Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me remove that splinter from your eye,’ while the wooden beam is in your eye? You hypocrite, remove the wooden beam from your eye first; then you will see clearly to remove the splinter from your brother’s eye.”

Greed for power and wealth, lust in all it’s forms drives us far from God. Vanity takes over and nothing is ever good enough for there is always something or someone better. And whether we intended it or not, idolatry sets in. If we worship not ourselves then we will worship whatever passion fills our hearts and minds, taking up all of our time. We get what we want by all means even if force is necessary. And so in the absence of good what else can grow but hate, loathing, depression and more sin! So blind indeed are we in the absence of the one true light!

All we have and will ever need comes from God, why then do we worry and fret? If we must worry then we should worry when we find ourselves idle. For if we work for the glory of God and live out holy lives, we will always be busy finding and doing things to build His Kingdom. And we will be doing so with joy never finding ourselves in want.

Let us continue to be one body in Christ loving and serving one another, as we do so serving our Lord and God. Amen

FIRST READING
2 Chronicles 24:17–25

GOSPEL
Matthew 6:24–34

Jesus said to his disciples:
“No one can serve two masters. He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they? Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life–span? Why are you anxious about clothes? Learn from the way the wild flowers grow. They do not work or spin. But I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was clothed like one of them. If God so clothes the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith? So do not worry and say, ‘What are we to eat?’ or ‘What are we to drink?’ or ‘What are we to wear?’ All these things the pagans seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides. Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil.”

God’s love is what prevents us from falling into our own destruction. He is merciful and patient, longing always to restore our broken relationships with Him. Turning back the hearts of fathers towards sons.

His Word and His Spirit is upon us and we can do mighty things in His name. But those who refuse His love and turns their back on Him, they will eventually perish. For how can a vine cut off survive?

Let us continue to strive for holiness always being loving and merciful to others. Afterall Jesus in His great love forgave us from the cross, can we do any less for one another?

Glory be to God! Amen

FIRST READING
Sirach 48:1–14

GOSPEL
Matthew 6:7–15

Jesus said to his disciples:
“In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

“This is how you are to pray:

‘Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.’ “If you forgive others their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, n