A Lectio Divina Approach to the Sunday & Weekday Liturgy

 

BREAKING THE BREAD OF THE WORD (Series 13, n. 30)

Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time and Weekday 12: June 21-27, 2015 ***

 

 

(N.B. The pastoral tool BREAKING THE BREAD OF THE WORD: A LECTIO DIVINA APPROACH TO THE SUNDAY LITURGY includes a prayerful study of the Sunday liturgy of Year B from three perspectives. For reflections on the Sunday liturgy based on the Gospel reading, please scroll up to the “ARCHIVES” above and open Series 1. For reflections based on the Old Testament reading, open Series 4. For reflections based on the Second Reading, open Series 7. Please go to Series 10 - Series 13 for the back issues of the Weekday Lectio. For the Lectio Divina on the liturgy of the past week: June 14-20, 2015, please go to ARCHIVES Series 13 and click on “Week 11”.

 

(Below is a LECTIO DIVINA APPROACH TO THE SUNDAY - WEEKDAY LITURGY: June 21-27, 2015.)

 

***

 

June 21, 2015: TWELFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

 “JESUS SAVIOR: He Masters the Raging Seas”

 

BIBLICAL READINGS

 Jb 38:1, 8-11 // II Cor 5:14-17 // Mk 4:35-41

 

 

I. BIBLICO-LITURGICAL REFLECTIONS: A Pastoral Tool for the LECTIO

 

The reading (Mk 4:35-41) depicts Jesus in the stern, asleep on a cushion, while violent waves are breaking over the boat that is already filling up with water. Mark’s Gospel account of the windstorm reveals the divine character of Jesus and his wondrous power to pacify a raging sea. The presence of Jesus and his tremendous authority causes the furious waters of the storm to subside and calm down. The authors of the Days of the Lord, vol. 5, comment: “The liturgy of the 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time reminds us that we are still at sea, still in the process of navigating to the other shore. It is impossible to accomplish such a crossing without being buffeted by contrary winds and storms. The Lord is always with us – his Church – in the boat tossed by the waves. He is watching even when he is in the storm, asleep on a cushion. We should never doubt in spite of appearances to the contrary. Such certitude causes us to cry to him with faith and trust - with one word he can dispel all storms, quell all tempests. This assurance must give us the boldness to go ahead without being disheartened by anything.”

 

At times we become frantic when we are buffeted by the storms of life, and Jesus seems to sleep in the stern. At times we panic and despair for Jesus seems to pay no heed. But the Lord Jesus, the Son of God, is fully concerned and involved in our fear and distress. As the omnipotent One, he is truly in control over the tumults and “storms” of our daily life. Harold Buetow exhorts us: “Life presents all kinds of storms: disease, natural disasters, epidemics, and famines; and human anger, hatred, prejudice, injustice, betrayal, and selfishness. For Christians, acceptance of Jesus is not a guarantee that we will sail on trouble-free waters. To the contrary, Jesus invites us to travel on uncharted waters and to make for unfamiliar shores – and all this as darkness falls. The risk of faith demands a radical trust that, whatever our particular storm, Jesus is present; being conscious of his presence will give us a calm peace in all the storms of our life.”

 

The personal account of Sr. Mary Adelle Arboleda, PDDM, underlines God’s provident presence in the “storms of our life”.

 

The Most Trying and Purifying Moment of My Life: It was June 21, 2008 when typhoon Frank hit the town of Kalibo, Aklan. You cannot imagine how this typhoon left our town devastated!

 

We experienced strong rain and winds on the morning of June 21, 2008. We were monitoring on our radio the weather conditions and there was no alarming announcement. Noontime – the rain stopped and the winds died down. Calmness enveloped the whole place and seemingly the typhoon left. And yet I was getting a strange feeling that it was not over.

 

At three o’clock in the afternoon, a neighbor told us that Aklan River had overflowed. From our past experience, the flood never entered the town. But before four o’clock in the afternoon, to our surprise – here came the water rushing from our backyard and rising so fast. I immediately planned to transfer my mom, who was blind, to a neighbor’s house that is higher than ours. My mom was made a seat on a small table that served as a raft for her transfer. The improvised raft was steered by my nephews and neighbor. My sister-in-law accompanied my mom.

 

Our house was bungalow style and lower. Soon, inside the house, the water reached up to my neck. Even though I wanted to salvage things, it was not possible. The water was getting deeper. We struggled to climb to the roof. From there we could see many things being carried away by the flood. I think everybody in the town was caught by surprise. Seeing precious furniture being carried away by the flood, I could not help but say to myself, “The Lord gives and the Lord takes it away.”

 

For me that was a moment of grace. God allowed me to have that experience so that my faith and trust in him would grow. As I sat there on the roof top, soaked in the rain, hungry and feeling abandoned, I thought of my mother in another house. Even if she was sheltered, she must be feeling hungry. I agonized all the more and asked why this happened.

 

It was getting dark: no light … no food … wet and cold. I could hear a neighbor shouting for help and also the church bell ringing. And yet all of us were helpless. Communication black out! We prayed as we have never prayed before. That eased a bit our pain. I used to see on TV people trapped on the roof by the flood. And here I was experiencing the very same thing … not on TV … but a personal reality!

 

At four o’clock in the morning, we slowly went down from the roof. I tried to look for some dry clothes to change – none! Everything wet! When we saw that the curtain was nearly dry, we took them to cover ourselves. We heard that water was all over the town. Even our cathedral was flooded. It seems each of us had a “share”. Our neighbor who was lucky to have a third floor gave us some dry clothes to put on and also some food.

 

Our feeling was of gratitude to God for we were all alive even though we were under the mercy of others. It was a humbling experience, But I would say everything has turned into a blessing.

 

The support of the Congregation was overwhelming. Prayers, financial and material support were not wanting. We stayed in our neighbor’s house for 20 days – until we had cleaned and disinfected our own house. I put a mark where the water reached – it was six feet! And I also put the date. The mud inside the house was 8 inches.

 

A lot of things happened then. Words were not sufficient to capture and express them. It was a real experience of the loving care of God manifested in many ways. Trials may come – difficulties – whatever. It no longer matters. Only God, doing his will day by day, is all that matters. Deo Gratias!

 

***

 

One warm, beautiful morning in October in the 1990s, my Sisters accompanied me to the pier in Manila where I was boarding a ship to Cebu Island to spend a few days of vacation with my brother and his family. I bid the kind Sisters goodbye and headed off to the cabin. There was a young lady sharing the cabin with me, and since she was extremely busy making text messages, I excused myself and allowed her to do her personal business in peace. I went to the upper deck and had a great time watching the intense activity at the pier as the crew prepared for sailing. As the ship began to move, there was the soothing sound of parting waters and the cooling sensation of the sea breeze. And then I heard something fascinating – the amplified voice of a crew in devout prayer to the Lord God who masters the storms and the raging seas, asking for blessing and protection for all of us sea travelers. The ship company had experienced several tragedies involving the loss of human lives and property on account of storms and other misfortunes. The matriarch of the family who owns the ship company then decided to put everything in the hands of God. One of the most eloquent expressions of her faith is the public prayer that she exhorts the crew to offer at the beginning of each ship’s journey and at various moments of the day. There was even the celebration of the rosary in the evening. I felt so peaceful and secure in that sea voyage knowing that everything had been entrusted to God who has dominion over all – even violent storms and turbulent seas.

 

            Today’s Old Testament Reading (Job 38:1, 8-11) is taken from the Book of Job, called by the poet Alfred Lord Tennyson, “the greatest poem of ancient and modern times”. The Lord God is addressing Job “out of the storm”, which evokes the raging emotions and turbulent storms that the distressed Job is experiencing from within. God obliges to confront the frantic Job, who is buffeted by the storms of life, but in his own infinite terms and ineffable ways as Creator God and Master of all. God does not answer Job’s questions, but simply puts them in proper perspective. The Lord does not make any positive proposition, rebuttal or self-defense, only a series of hypothetical questions that evince Job’s ignorance and affirm, at the same time, the omnipotent power of God as Creator and Master of the universe.

 

            Harold Buetow remarks: “God’s questions cover the most familiar phenomenon of nature. If Job cannot answer, how can he and God debate, and how can God explain to Job the deeper mysteries of His providence over people? Everywhere there are marvels, and everywhere also mystery. Today’s section deals only with that tumultuous and threatening element, the sea. Through it, God reminds Job that he, Job, is just a creature, and only God is the Creator. God alone formed the earth and the seas, and He alone can calm the winds and the waves of the storms. He pictures the sea more as a troublesome infant, in need of a loving parent to keep it calm, to clothe it in clouds and swaddling bands and feed it, and thus stop its movement and its cries. He had set limits to his child, telling it where it can and cannot go.”

 

            Indeed, God who has created the sea and assigned it its boundaries, limiting the flow of its waves, is the almighty One who directs the course of each individual’s life. Everything that happens in the universe is under the power of God’s dominion and control. That God obliges to talk to Job “out of the storm” indicates that he is not a distant God. He is not detached and unconcerned with our destiny. He is there to share the storms of our life. And yet, though he is there present for us - to relate with us “out of the storm” - he is absolutely beyond the clutch of elemental powers and the manipulation of his creatures. God evinces sovereign mastery over the elements, particularly over the sea, which appears to be the most difficult to control. He also manifests his control, not only of nature, but above all, of the raging inner storms that threaten to submerge our human destiny as the chosen and favored ones of God.

 

***

 

All of us go through storms in life, even the great apostle Paul. Harold Buetow remarks concerning the Second Reading (II Cor 5:14-17): “St. Paul’s whole life consisted in one storm after another, most for the sake of Christ and many with the people of Corinth. The occasion for his writing today’s excerpt was that the Christians of Corinth were forsaking him, forging impossible loyalties with his opponents and calling him names. Further, they were claiming mystical experiences – ecstasies – which they valued more than anything else. In their view, Paul was inferior to these ecstasies, because he never said anything about his having had mystical experiences himself, nor had he performed miracles. In today’s excerpt, Paul reminds everyone that, through all the storms of life, it is the love of Christ that counts. There is no doubt about the love coming from Christ’s side of the equation. It remains for everyone to return that love in the ways Paul here enumerates: by being concerned about what Christ has done (v. 14), by living not for oneself but for others (v. 15), and by seeing all things in the new light of faith (v. 15). In that way people can be, in a favorite Pauline expression, in Christ (v. 17).”

 

Sickness and death are intense experiences and they are some of the stronger buffets of life. The presence of Christ and the power of love, however, could bring peace, calm a tumultuous situation and ease a sad predicament. To acknowledge and welcome the loving Savior Jesus Christ can help us cope with the storms of life. The following charming story, “Christmas Forever” by Fr. Joseph Bernie Marquis (cf. The WORD Among Us, June 2007, p.60-63) illustrates the peace, creativity and newness that result from the power of love and the spirit of Christ. Fr. Joseph was ordained in 2000 to the priesthood in the Byzantine Rite of Catholic Church. He used to have a moonlighting job playing Santa at various stores and events, but he still occasionally fills in for Santa.

 

A heavy wool suit trimmed with fur isn’t what I usually wear in ninety-five-degree weather, especially in a car with no air conditioning. Yet there I was, one hot and humid Michigan afternoon, wearing not just the suit, but boots, a snowy white beard, and a thick woolen hat. It felt like a sauna on wheels, but I really didn’t mind. This was no ordinary day, and I was no ordinary person: I was Santa Claus, on a mission of mercy to a little girl who was dying of leukemia at a nearby children’s hospital. (…)

 

As I made my sweltering way to the hospital, I asked the Lord to use my visit to delight four-year-old Angela (not her real name) and console her grief-stricken grandfather. He was the one who had arranged this “Christmas in June”, after learning that Angela had just five weeks to live. “What can I do?” he had asked God. “How can I put a lifetime of loving into the heart of my little granddaughter?” As he sat sipping coffee at the kitchen table, he had noticed Angela’s crayon drawing of Santa Claus taped to the refrigerator. He remembered what she had asked him once, as they watched the Detroit Christmas parade together: “Why does it have to end, Grandpa? … I wish Christmas could be forever!” Suddenly, he knew exactly what to do.

 

Approaching the hospital, I was surprised to see many helpers awaiting Santa at the main entrance – a doctor sporting a Santa hat, nurses, social workers, and volunteers decked out as Christmas elves. “Merry June Ninth!” they called out. “Everything’s ready! We’re so excited that you’ve come all the way from the North Pole to visit the kids.” I quickly got the message that all the patients in the pediatric cancer unit were about to enjoy the surprise arranged for Angela’s sake. Moving merrily through the lobby, my entourage and I packed into the elevator. Excitement mounted as we made our ascent to the oncology floor. Then the doors opened. A magical scene greeted us. The ward was ablaze with holiday lights and filled with the sound of Christmas music. Garlands decorated the hallway, where four Christmas trees stood in splendor. A lively Frosty the Snowman was there to welcome us, scattering snow through a spout that poked through his top hat. Then came cries of delight, as Santa was spotted by six or seven children who were strong enough to be sitting in wheelchairs. I stopped to greet each one, and then went visiting the other children room to room. Meanwhile, Angela’s grandpa stood watching with a smile.

 

When I finally got to Angela’s bedside, two big blue eyes were peering out over the top of the sheet. “Angela!” I said. The blue eyes opened wider still. A look of sheer joy came over her face. With the whole staff crowded around to watch, I reached into my bag and presented the gift her grandfather had chosen – a new blue dress that Angela had wanted for a long time. From Santa, there was a guardian angel with red tennis shoes and beautiful blonde hair, just like Angela’s before chemotherapy. A small snapshot from her grandpa’s wallet was still fresh in my memory. “She looks a lot like you”, I observed. Then I pinned a little button to her hospital gown. It read: “Santa said I was a good girl!” With the mood so jolly, we launched into some familiar Christmas songs – “Jingle Bells”. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town”. Then I began one of my favorite carols, “Silent Night”. I really don’t have the words to describe what happened as we sang that last song. All I can say is that an almost palpable peace descended on the room. By the power of the Holy Spirit, Jesus was there. (…)

 

Angela died just ten days later. After the funeral in another part of the state, her grandfather phoned. “I’m not going to pretend that I’m having an easy time”, he said. “Before I called you, I had a good cry.” But then he went on to recount an experience he’d had at the funeral home. “I was looking at my little granddaughter lying there in a white casket in her new blue dress, with the guardian angel doll by her side, and wearing the pin you gave her: “Santa said I was a good girl!” The grief was almost unbearable. “But right then, when I was feeling the pain most profoundly … I can’t explain it, but I felt a sudden peace, even a joy. At that moment, I knew that Angela was with God and that we would be reunited in eternity.”

 

 

II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO 

 

1. What are our experiences of despair and pain? How does it feel to be in the same situation as the raging Job, buffeted by life problems and troubled by storms from within? How do we respond to God’s assertion of his power and glory?

 

2. Do we feel abandoned and neglected by Jesus when the life-storms are violent and he seems to be “sleeping”? Why do we panic?

 

3. Do we believe in faith that God is in control? Do we place our trust in Jesus, whom even wind and sea obey? Do we derive strength from the fact that the Lord Jesus masters the storms and the raging seas?

 

 

III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO

 

Loving Father,

life presents all kinds of storms.

But you are the Creator and the Master of the sea.

You have the power to tame the raging waves

and the tempest of destroying waters.

In Jesus your Son,

you are with us as we navigate to “the other shore”

to bring us safely home to you.

Though the violent waves of life’s trials threaten to engulf us,

we feel safe in the presence of Jesus,

who can pacify the raging sea with his all-powerful word.

Almighty Father,

the fury of life’s storm will never daunt us

for we know that Jesus Christ always accompanies us through our sailing.

We do not allow useless anxieties and petty concerns to drown us

for we are heartened by the reality

that “whoever is in Christ is a new creation”.

We thank you, our Creator and omnipotent Lord,

for as we embark on new uncharted waters,

we draw closer to you and the peaceful waters of your heavenly Kingdom.

We adore you and praise you, now and forever.

Amen.

 

 

IV. INTERIORIZATION OF THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the CONTEMPLATIO

 

The following is the bread of the living Word that will nourish us throughout the day. Please memorize it.

 

            “Jesus rebuked the wind and said to the sea, ‘Quiet! Be still!’.” (Mk 4:39)

 

 

V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO   

 

Pray to God that we may be able to feel his presence and serenity even in the midst of life’s storms. Offer comfort and assistance to those whose faith is wavering and whose lives are deeply upset by trials and difficulties. Share with those who are overwhelmed in the sea of sorrows the comforting presence of Jesus, who masters the winds and the raging seas.

***

June 22, 2015: MONDAY – WEEKDAY (12); SAINT PAULINUS OF NOLA, Bishop; SAINTS JOHN FISHER & THOMAS MORE, Martyrs

 “JESUS SAVIOR: He Teaches Us that God Is the True Judge”

 

BIBLE READINGS

Gn 12:1-9 // Mt 7:1-5

 

 

I. BIBLICO-LITURGICAL REFLECTIONS: A Pastoral Tool for the LECTIO

 

I was praying the rosary in the spacious and beautifully tended grounds of our Fresno convent. But I was perplexed when I saw a few trash items on the ground – a styrofoam cup, candy wrapper, empty bag of potato chips, etc. Who could have trashed this place of prayer? I picked them up and disposed of them in the garbage bin. Day after day, I would see trashed things here and there, not many, but enough to upset me. I complained how irresponsible and irreverent the “litterbugs” were. I fumed that some “pious” people coming to our convent for Mass were actually “litterbugs”. But the “evidence” was there – right? One morning, I took notice of a flock of crows – busy and noisy. One powerfully swept down from the sky. His beak was clutching an empty snack bag that he promptly trashed on the ground. An inner voice pierced my conscience: “Rash judgment! Rash judgment! You have been making a rash judgment!”

 

In today’s Gospel reading (Mt 7:1-5), Jesus tells us to stop judging that we may not be judged. Against the backdrop of the hypercriticism of the Pharisees and scribes, Jesus cautions against passing harsh judgment on others and denying them entry to the kingdom of God. To condemn others is not our prerogative. God alone is the true judge. We must leave judgment to the final judge. Instead of “judging” we must imitate the Divine Master’s compassionate stance and his work of healing and salvation. The measure we use to deal with others will be measured out to us. We will be judged on the basis of our own attitude – whether hypercritical or compassionate. Jesus, the son of a carpenter, uses carpentry images to deliver the irony of hypocrisy and false condemnation: the righteous with a wooden beam in the eye wants to remove the sawdust in another’s eye. In the biblical world, the “eye” represents a person’s attitude and understanding. Indeed, our pride obstructs the light of compassionate understanding and blinds us to our own faults and the duty of charity. Jesus warns against exaggerating our neighbor’s faults and minimizing our own. He wants us to remove the “wooden beam” dimension of our hypocrisy and pride that we may be able to remove charitably the “splinter” that hurts our neighbor’s eyes. He does not condemn fraternal correction, but false condemnation. Jesus Master counsels true compassion in dealing with our brothers and sisters.

 

***

 

In today’s Old Testament reading (Gn 12:1-9), we hear God calling Abraham to be the father of nations and we see the patriarch’s marvelous, obedient response to the divine call. Through Abraham’s faith and trust in Yahweh’s benevolent initiative, humanity’s compulsive path to destruction is radically changed. In calling Abraham, God offers him both a challenge and a promise of blessing. The call summons him away from his former life and challenges him to an ineffable relationship based entirely on faith and trust in God.

 

The vocation of Abraham is a vocation to grace and glory. It is replete with divine favor and blessing. God promises him: “I will make you a great nation, and I will bless you. I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you. All the communities of the earth shall find blessings in you” (Gen 12:2-3). Abraham responds to the divine command to leave his homeland to an unfamiliar land that God would show him. He “goes” with his wife Sarah. His “going” in the direction of the divine will is necessary for receiving the fullness of God’s gifts. By leaving behind his country, relatives and homeland, Abraham would become the father of a posterity that would end up as the “new people of God”. In obedient faith, Abraham travels to his true destiny of grace and glory. The remarkable response of Abraham to Yahweh prefigures the unconditional response of Jesus Christ to the divine saving plan.

 

The following modern day story gives insight into the pursuit of our true destiny (cf. Sandra Lee, “Recipe for Success” in Family Circle, November 1, 2007, p. 83-88). Sandra Lee is known for her best-selling Semi-Homemade cookbooks and food network show. Like Abraham and Jesus, she trod the difficult path and responded to her vocation to grace and glory.

 

I was about two years old when my mother, Vicky, dropped my younger sister Cindy and me off at Grandma Lorraine’s house in Santa Monica, California, one sunny afternoon in 1968, promising to return shortly. We didn’t see her again for four years. Grandma Lorraine was the mother of my birth father, Wayne. Vicky and Wayne were typical high school sweethearts. They filed for divorce about two years after they said, “I do,” somewhere around Cindy’s first birthday. I started calling Grandma Lorraine “Mommy,” and Vicky became a distant memory. Grandma Lorraine loved being in the kitchen. Some of my fondest memories are of baking with her. Grandma’s vanilla cake with butter cream frosting was my favorite. She also knew how to stretch a dollar better than anyone, mostly because she had to. She taught me to save money at an early age, opening my very own savings account when I was four … These were important lessons that would come in very handy a few years later. Grandma Lorraine reminded us what a gift life is and how important it was to embrace the joy in each and every day. She’d talk about all the possibilities that tomorrow could bring. Not long after my sixth birthday, Vicky came back into our lives. She arrived with her new husband, Richard. Vicky and Richard tried to explain that they were our mom and dad, but I wondered why these strangers wanted to take us away. Slowly I adjusted to my new life in Marina del Rey. (…)

 

Richard was transferred to Washington State for his job as a computer programmer, and everything changed. Vicky’s mood was becoming unpredictable and more volatile. Three years later Richard left Vicky, and at age 12 I became mom, sister, caretaker and homemaker of our family. There were six of us in the house – Richie and Johnny were born after we moved to Washington State – but I was the one looking after everyone. Vicky spent her days lying on the couch, taking pills and screaming at us. When the welfare check arrived, I’d bike to the bank to deposit it. Then I paid our bills to ensure our gas and electricity weren’t shut off. Next I’d use the food stamps to stock the kitchen as best I could. I was so glad Grandma had taught me how to cook and be frugal, because there was no other way for us to make it through. (…)

 

One morning before school, when I was 15, Vicky looked me in the eyes and said, “You are going to be so much more than I am when you grow up.” It was the only compliment I can remember her ever giving me. As usual I said nothing, but I couldn’t help thinking that I was going to be so much more than she in ways she couldn’t possibly imagine. I wanted to be the opposite of Vicky – kind, generous, supportive and nurturing, thoughtful and disciplined. I stared at her in disgust until I could no longer contain myself and said, “You’re right. I am going to be more than you.” The words stunned us both. She flew into an uncontrollable rage and grabbed me. Her punches were landing fast and hard – I could barely catch my breath. I lay there thinking this had to end or I would die. She beat me until she was done. I called my boyfriend, Duanne, and when he arrived at the house, he took one look at me and said, “Go pack. You are not coming back.” I moved in with Duanne’s family until I could decide what to do next. I contacted Grandma Lorraine and she told me that Wayne and his girlfriend Patty were moving to Wisconsin and would love to have me live with them. I left for Wisconsin on June 30, 1982, three days before my sixteenth birthday … I discovered I had a knack for putting together business outlines and marketing plans and decided to pursue a business degree. (…)

 

I decided to create a total lifestyle company … I wanted to design solution-based products that would make women heroes in their home. I noticed that one group not being served in the marketplace was women who didn’t have enough time to whip up tasty meals from scratch … I decided to refocus my energies by closing down the lifestyle company and writing my first cookbook … I decided to name my cookbook and approach to cooking Semi-Homemade … I sold SEMI-HOMEMADE COOKING primarily through television channels and small book sellers. It was an instant hit. (…)

 

The only way to move forward is to live an authentic life and be true to who you really are. I was dealt a hand that might have had a different outcome if I ever allowed myself to feel like a victim. Resilience is key. Learning to stand strong in the face of challenge and adversity is my secret to survival. Picking up and moving forward is the only thing we can do. And making your life matter is the most important thing of all.

 

 

II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO

 

1. Do I give in to a righteous tendency to judge my neighbors and condemn their “faults”? Do I endeavor to remove the “wooden beam” in my eye in order to help my brother remove the “sawdust” in his eye?

 

2. What is significant in the story of the call of Abraham? Do you recognize the graciousness of the almighty God in initiating an intimate relationship with patriarch Abraham? Why is Abraham a model of true faith? 

 

 

III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO

 

Jesus Lord,

you are God’s compassion and righteousness.

Help us to stop judging harshly

that we may not be judged.

Help us to be compassionate.

Deal kindly with us.

With a true seeing “eye”,

may we perceive the beauty of charity

and embrace our duty to care for our brothers and sisters.

Let your loving eyes be upon us.

Empower us to make life-giving choices

and teach us not to negate the Father’s love.

You live and reign,

forever and ever.

Amen.

 

***

Loving Father,

you called Abraham to go forth from the land of his kinsfolk

and from his father’s house

to lead him to his glorious destiny.

We thank you for the sterling quality of Abraham’s response.

Help us to fulfill our vocation to grace and glory.

We love you and adore you, now and forever.

Amen.

 

 

IV. INTERIORIZATION OF THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the CONTEMPLATIO

           

            The following is the bread of the living Word that will nourish us throughout the week. Please memorize it.

 

“Stop judging, that you may not be judged.” (Mt 7:1) // “I will make you a great nation, and I will bless you.” (Gen 12:2)

 

  

V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO

 

By your acts of charity, enable those in extreme difficulty to have a glimpse of their future destiny and respond to their vocation to grace and glory.

 

***

 

June 23, 2015: TUESDAY – WEEKDAY (12)

“JESUS SAVIOR: He Teaches Us to Abide by the Golden Rule”

 

BIBLE READINGS

Gn 13:2, 5-18 // Mt 7:6, 12-14

 

 

I. BIBLICO-LITURGICAL REFLECTIONS: A Pastoral Tool for the LECTIO

 

In today’s Gospel (Mt 7:6, 12-14), Jesus counsels discernment and discretion in dealing with those who are hostile to the message of salvation he brings. When our work for the Good News is rejected by those who impose rash judgments and are averse to the kingdom, he advises us not to get into a dispute. They lack understanding and refusing to understand, they will use what we say to condemn. The kingdom of God and its way of life are holy. They are like pearls of great price. The gift of salvation cannot be squandered and forced on anyone who resists them. It is sheer grace and an act of divine predilection to which we can freely respond.

 

Jesus Master tells his disciples to abide by the Golden Rule: “Do to others whatever you would have them do to you.” This wisdom saying can be verified in the Jewish tradition. Rabbi Hillel, who died when Jesus was about ten years old, was asked by a scoffer to teach him the whole Torah while he stood on one foot. Rabbi Hillel answered: “What is hateful to you do not do to your neighbor; that is the whole Torah; go and study it.” Jesus Master likewise uses the principle of mutuality, but on a higher level: “Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us”; “Stop judging and you will not be judged”; etc. By putting positively the wisdom saying “What is hateful to you do not do to your neighbor”, Jesus transforms a prescription of self-preservation into an action of love. A negative counsel becomes pro-active. Jesus’ Golden Rule, “Do to others whatever you would have them to you” is in deep affinity with the great command, “Love your neighbor as yourself” on which depends all the law and the prophets”.

 

Jesus Master exhorts his disciples to enter by the narrow gate. This is an exhortation to become part of the pro-active faithful and not simply to follow the crowd or abide by social pressure. He sets before his disciples the two ways: the broad way that leads to doom and destruction and the narrow way that leads to life. The narrow way is that of the cross. With Jesus, we travel through the way of the cross to eternal life and the light of glory.

 

The following story, circulated on the Internet, illustrates how we can incarnate in our daily life the teachings of Jesus: the Golden Rule, choosing the narrow way, holiness, caring for those in need, etc.

 

One day a man saw an old lady, stranded on the side of the road, but even in the dim light of day, he could see she needed help. So he pulled up in front of her Mercedes and got out. His Pontiac was still sputtering when he approached her. Even with the smile on his face, she was worried. No one had stopped to help for the last hour or so. Was he going to hurt her? He didn’t look safe; he looked poor and hungry.

 

He could see that she was frightened, standing out there in the cold. He knew how she felt. It was that chill which only fear can put in you. He said, “I’m here to help you, ma’am. Why don’t you wait in the car where it’s warm? By the way, my name is Bryan Anderson.”

 

Well all that she had was a flat tire, but for an old lady, that was bad enough. Bryan crawled under the car looking for a place to put the jack, skinning his knuckles a time or two. Soon he was able to change the tire. But he had to get dirty and his hands hurt. As he was tightening up the lug nuts, she rolled down the window and began to talk to him. She told him that she was from St. Louis and was just passing through. She couldn’t thank him enough for coming to her aid.

 

Bryan just smiled as he closed the trunk. The lady asked how much she owed him. Any amount would have been all right with her. She already imagined all the awful things that could have happened had he not stopped. Bryan never thought twice about being paid. This was not a job to him. This was helping someone in need, and God knows there were plenty who had given him a hand in the past. He had lived his whole life that way, and it never occurred to him to act any other way. He told her that if she really wanted to pay him back, the next time she saw someone who needed help, she could give that person the assistance needed, and Bryan added, “And think of me.” He waited until she started her car and drove off. It had been a cold and depressing day, but he felt good as he headed home, disappearing into the twilight.

 

A few miles down the road the lady saw a small café. She went in to grab a bite to eat, and take the chill off before she made the last leg of her trip home. It was a dingy looking restaurant. Outside were two old gas pumps. The whole scene was unfamiliar to her. The waitress came over and brought a clean towel to wipe her wet hair. She had a sweet smile, one that even being on her feet for the whole day couldn’t erase. The lady noticed that the waitress was nearly eight months pregnant, but she never let the strain and aches change her attitude. The old lady wondered how someone who had so little could be so giving to a stranger. Then she remembered Bryan.

 

After the lady finished her meal, she paid with a hundred-dollar bill. The waitress quickly went to get her change for her hundred-dollar bill, but the old lady had slipped right out of the door. She was gone by the time the waitress came back. The waitress wondered where the lady could be. Then she noticed something written on the napkin. There were tears in her eyes when she read what the lady wrote: “You don’t owe me anything. I have been there too. Somebody once helped me out, the way I’m helping you. If you really want to pay me back, here is what you do: Do not let this chain of love end with you.” Under the napkin were four more $100 bills.

 

Well, there were tables to clear, sugar bowls to fill, and people to serve, but the waitress made it through another day. That night when she got home from work and climbed into bed, she was thinking about the money and what the lady had written. How could the lady have known, it was going to be hard. She knew how worried her husband was, and as he lay sleeping next to her, she gave him a soft kiss and whispered soft and low, “Everything’s going to be all right. I love you, Bryan Anderson.”

 

***

 

Today’s Old Testament reading (Gn 13:2, 5-18) is a vivid account of shepherd nomads and their need for grazing land and water. Both Abraham and his nephew Lot own many sheep, goats, and cattle. There is not enough pasture land for the two of them to stay together. The herdsmen of Abraham and Lot begin to quarrel. With great wisdom and noble spirit, Abraham remarks: “Let there be no strife between us for we are kinsmen.” To forestall further dispute, Abraham proposes that they separate. The patriarch magnanimously defers to Lot, who chooses to go eastward and settle in the lush and fertile Jordan Plain near Sodom. Abraham is left with the western half of Palestine from the central mountain spine to the sea coast. Lot’s decision, although inspired by human wisdom and practical concerns, works ultimately for the fulfillment of the divine plan. God blesses Abraham and promises him the land and numerous progeny to fill it.

 

The conciliatory act of Abraham foretells the non-violent stance of his progeny Jesus Christ, our Savior. In today’s world we all have personal responsibility to overcome strife and senseless division that vitiate human relationships. The following story is an inspiration (cf. Arlene West House, “An American Beauty” in Chicken Soup for the Soul, Cos Cob: CSS, 2008, p. 230-233).

 

In the 1930s, after the death of her husband, a middle-aged woman named Marguerite left Germany to make a new life in America, away from Hitler and the Third Reich. Marguerite’s younger brother Wilhelm, stayed behind with his Jewish wife and family to protect their assets, unaware of the horrors to come.

 

In her adopted country, Marguerite lived on a small pension and supplemented her income by raising a variety of roses, which she sold to local florists and hospitals. She sent some of the earnings from her roses to help support her brother in Germany. And, as the war advanced, she also sent money to help Jews escape from Germany.

 

Marguerite’s neighbors viewed her as a quiet, unassuming woman who spent most days in her garden or greenhouse. Not much was known about her, nor did the community try to befriend the foreign-born woman. But when the United States entered the war against Germany, Marguerite became suspect. While her neighbors and shopkeepers had never been friendly or particularly kind, they were now openly hostile. There were mutters and whispers about her being a Nazi, always just loud enough for her to hear.

 

Without fanfare, Marguerite continued to send money to Jewish families and to her brother in Germany. Then, one day, she received a letter from her sister-in-law with devastating news. Her beloved Wilhelm was dying of cancer. He was praying for a miracle: to be able to come to the United States where he could receive better medical care. At first Marguerite was panic-stricken: she didn’t have the extra money. But soon, she was overjoyed when a hospital requested an unusually large order of roses. This was the extra income she needed to make the miracle happen!

 

For weeks she tended her roses, nurturing and fertilizing them with tender care. Each rose meant another dollar to help bring Wilhelm to America. In August, Marguerite entered a local contest for the most beautiful roses grown. If she won, the prize money of $25 would ease her financial burden when Wilhelm and his family arrived.

 

On the day of the festival, she rose early to cut the flowers before they were wilted by the sun. As she stepped into the garden, she nearly fell to her knees with shock. All one hundred rosebushes, lovingly planted and nurtured over the last seven years, lay in shambles before her. Every plant was slashed and chopped to the ground. They all but bled before her eyes. She could barely take it in: her beloved flowers, and her livelihood, gone, possibly forever. And the worst of it was that Wilhelm would not be able to come to America.

 

Marguerite was devastated, but more determined than ever to show up at the festival. She would not give the hooligans the satisfaction of her absence. She would still enter the contest, even if they left but a petal. She walked down the garden path to see if she could salvage anything from the debris. Clinging to life by the back fence, obviously missed by the vandals, was one single red rose. It was an “American Beauty”. She took the rose into the house, cut the stem on an angle and placed it in the icebox to keep it fresh until the contest. Then, shaking with distress, she cleaned up the ruined rose garden as best she could. When she could do no more, she put on her best hat and took a trolley to the contest, holding the lone rose in her hand.

 

When Marguerite’s turn came to show her entry, she held up her single “American Beauty”. In her halting English, she proudly described its origin, how she had bred it, and the special fertilizer she has used to enhance the color of its petals. But, when the winners were announced, she wasn’t surprised at the absence of her name. Why would they give the prize to a rose from the garden of the enemy? She went home that evening trying to think of some other way she could earn money.

 

The next day, Marguerite attended church, as was her custom, to pray for strength and guidance. When she arrived home and opened the door, the scent of flowers filed the air. Someone had placed a large vase filled with summer flowers on the entryway table. As she walked toward the kitchen, she saw that every room in her home had more bouquets of flowers in Mason jars and pitchers. It was heavenly!

 

As she approached the kitchen, she saw a fresh coffeecake in the middle of the table. Under the cake plate was an envelope addressed to “Marguerite”. She opened it to find $300 in single bills and a card that said simply, “Many thanks from your friends in town.” Stunned and happy, Marguerite realized that this was the miracle Wilhelm had been praying for! Now she could bring him to America. The miracle did come to pass. With the $300, Marguerite bought steamship tickets. Within a few months, Wilhelm and his family arrived. Marguerite and his wife cared for him tenderly, and he received excellent medical attention that added years to his life.

 

For years Marguerite tried to discover who her benefactors were, but without success. Many years later, a local woman was going through the personal effects of her late grandfather, who had been a cantor in the local synagogue. She found his journal – and in it, an entry of particular interest. The journal stated that while attending the rose festival, the cantor had overheard two men in the audience brag about ripping up “the Nazi’s” rosebushes. He knew who they meant. Marguerite had never sought recognition for her charity, but many Jews in the community knew that her roses helped Jewish families escape the nightmare of the Holocaust.

 

That day the cantor set about calling on members of the synagogue, explaining about the vandalism and the financial loss Marguerite had suffered. The men and women in the synagogue gave with their hearts and pocketbooks for the “rose lady”. Several women who shared Marguerite’s love of gardening gathered flowers from their own gardens to honor her for all she had done for their people. Rather than have her feel an obligation, they took an oath to remain anonymous until death. They all kept the promise.

 

With patient love and care, Marguerite’s roses bloomed again. And Marguerite bloomed as well. She made many friends in town in the years following the war, never knowing that many of them were her secret benefactors. And she continued to send money to Germany to help Jewish families until her death in 1955.

 

 

II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO

 

1. Do I believe in the positive value of the Golden Rule? Do I practice the Golden Rule in the spirit of Jesus’ love command?

 

2. What do we do to overcome strife and ugly disputes? Do we endeavor to adopt a peaceful and conciliatory stance when confronted with divisive situations and potentially violent conflicts?

 

 

III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO

 

Loving Jesus,

we thank you for teaching us

about the great value of the kingdom of God.

The heavenly kingdom is a pearl of great price

that must not be lost or squandered.

Thank you for calling us to holiness

and for consecrating us for your service.

Help us to put into practice the Golden Rule:

“Do to others whatever you would have them do to you.”

Give us the grace to enter

the narrow way that leads to life.

Grant us the grace and strength

to be pro-active in our ministry of love.

You are the way, truth and life.

We bless you and adore you, now and forever.

Amen.

 

***

God our Father,

we thank you for the graciousness of Abraham,

our father in faith.

We thank you for Jesus, the prince of peace.

Make us channels of peace in today’s world

wounded with strife and brutal wars.

Help us to overcome violence and senseless divisions

by the love of the Holy Spirit.

We praise and glorify you, now and forever.

Amen.   

 

 

IV. INTERIORIZATION OF THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the CONTEMPLATIO

 

The following is the bread of the living Word that will nourish us throughout the day. Please memorize it.

 

“Do to others whatever you would have them do to you.”  (Mt 7:12) //“Let there be no strife between us for we are kinsmen.” (Gn 13:8)

 

 

V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO

 

Living by the Golden Rule, do an act of kindness for a needy person and be patient and kind to one who challenges your patience and provokes your anger. // When dealing with divisive and destructive conflict situations, pray for the grace to imitate the conciliatory and peace-making stance of Abraham, our father in faith, and his illustrious progeny, Jesus Christ.

 

***

 

June 24, 2015: WEDNESDAY – THE NATIVITY OF JOHN THE BAPTIST

“JESUS SAVIOR: John the Baptist Is His Precursor”

 

BIBLE READINGS

Is 49:1-6 // Acts13:22-26 // Lk 1:57-66, 80

  

 

I. BIBLICO-LITURGICAL REFLECTIONS: A Pastoral Tool for the LECTIO

 

This happened on June 24th – a hot sunny day - many years ago. I was riding in a “jeep”, the most popular form of public transportation in the Philippines. I was on my way to visit my parents and have lunch with them. The route of the “jeep” would take me through San Juan, in Metro Manila, which was celebrating the feast of its patron saint. The town has a unique fiesta tradition – water dousing! When I boarded the “jeep”, I noticed that the plastic window curtains to protect passengers from rain were rolled down. The driver explained: “I don’t want you to get wet. It’s fiesta in San Juan.” When we were there, the “jeep” got stuck in the traffic. We saw some teenagers by the road ready with water ammunition, but they were totally ignoring us. Their attention was focused on passersby. When the vehicle started to move, there was a vigorous splash through the door. An abundant douse of water hit us. After the initial shock, we started to laugh. Thank God! It was clean water. We were wet, but it was fun. The water dousing steeped us in the fiesta spirit – we felt that John the Baptist had baptized us!

 

The universal Church celebrates today the nativity of John the Baptist, the Messiah’s precursor. The Gospel (Lk 1:57-66, 80) describes the marvelous circumstances surrounding the birth of John the Baptist. Elizabeth, the wife of the temple priest, Zechariah, gives birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives hear how the good Lord wonderfully has bestowed his mercy upon her. They all rejoice with Zechariah and Elizabeth. The joy is even greater on account of Elizabeth’s lifelong barrenness and the advanced age of the couple. In the biblical mentality, fecundity is a sign of divine blessing and childlessness a disgrace or a curse. The name given to the child by God and announced to Zechariah by the angel at the temple is truly significant: “JOHN” – which means “Yahweh has shown favor” … “Yahweh is gracious”. Indeed, the joy brought about by Elizabeth’s motherhood is a foretaste of the messianic joy that the birth of Jesus will bring to the world.

 

The following story gives a glimpse into the joy that motherhood entails (cf. Shawnelle Eliasen in Daily Guideposts 2015. P. 180).

 

“I have a surprise”, my son Samuel said. “What’s that?” I asked. His hand came forward, and his fingers uncurled. In his palm lay a few wadded, crumpled dollar bills and an assortment of change. “Wow!” I said. “What are you going to do with it?”

 

“What I’d like to do is take you for a ride on that.” A street fair had come to our small town, and Samuel turned toward the Ferris wheel curving just over the trees in our front yard.

 

“But that’s your Tooth Fairy and birthday money, Samuel. Are you sure you want to spend it like that?”

 

“I’m sure”, he said, but as we waited in line, I began to feel guilty. Maybe I should have offered to pay.

 

“C’mon up!” the man on the platform called. We headed straight for the sky. Around and around we went, in and out of the blue. We held our breath on the way up and giggled like mad on the way down.

 

“Are you having fun, Mom?” Samuel asked the final time we went around. “I am”, I said. “Thank you for the gift.”

 

Samuel nodded. His hand wrapped around mine. His smile came straight from his heart. I didn’t need to feel guilty. My little boy was learning to give.

 

***

 

The liturgy’s First Reading (Is 49:1-6) comes from the Second Servant Song, which describes the commissioning of a mysterious personage - the Servant of God - as a prophet. The identity of the Servant is not specified and since the reference is open-ended, it is easily appropriated. On account of the versatility of its image, the figure of the Servant has been applied to various personages in salvation history, foremost of whom is Jesus Christ, the ultimate Servant of Yahweh. Today’s liturgy, however, applies the Second Servant Song to John the Baptist, whose birthday we commemorate today. Called from birth and given a name from his mother’s womb, the remarkable child will grow and be honed into a “sharp-edged sword”. He will be transformed into an effective prophetic instrument of God’s word. Like a “polished arrow” hidden in God’s quiver, John is to become an incisive weapon to be used at the right time to proclaim the judgment of God. Concealed for a time, the prophet John will appear in the desert to proclaim the coming of the Kingdom and prepare the way for the public ministry of the Messiah. An enigmatic ascetic and a compelling figure in the wilderness of Judea, the Precursor will exhort the people tensed with messianic expectation: “Turn away from your sins and be baptized, and God will forgive your sins.”

 

In bearing witness to the person of Jesus Christ, the true Light that enlightens the world, and in upholding the integrity of moral truth against the malice of King Herod and his partner Herodias, John suffers martyrdom. His death is an intimate participation in the paschal destiny of the Messiah, of which he is a precursor. In sharing intimately the universal work of salvation of Jesus Christ, the words of Yahweh in the Second Servant Song, could also be applied not only to Jesus but also to John: “I will make you a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth” (Is 49:6).

 

In sharing Christ’s saving work in the “here and now” we continue to incarnate the Word of God and make his love real and tangible. In doing so, we too become a “light to the nations”. Here is a modern-day example (cf. Pam Kidd in Daily Guideposts 2015, p. 201).

 

Years ago, I was called to Zimbabwe on assignment to write about the street children. I didn’t plan on becoming involved beyond that, but it became abundantly clear that God’s call was for my family to get involved, and soon the children of this AIDS-ravaged country became our passion. Village Hope was born.

 

Now, standing amidst pots boiling on open fires and the delicious smell of bread baking in cast-iron ovens, I see children, once orphaned and alone, working alongside the local couple we partnered with, Alice and Paddington. They’ve been up since dawn, preparing for guests. Today is the dedication of their new church.

 

But for me, the anticipated visit by an important official of Zimbabwe’s presbytery touches the day with apprehension. Church executives can be stuffy and self-important, and I didn’t want to see the enthusiasm over this happy event dampened.

 

At the appointed hour, a big black car drove through the gates and an immaculately dressed man emerged. I kept my distance, waiting for Alice and Paddington to meet the dignitary and take him on a tour of the little farm. Finally, they appeared in the cooking hut, and I was surprised to see the tears in the man’s eyes. He looked at us and what he said melted our worries, clarified our struggles, and opened our eyes: “The Word made flesh”.

 

***

 

The Second Reading (Acts 13:22-26) contains Paul’s speech to the Israelites and other worshippers in the synagogue at Antioch in Pisidia. In this apostolic preaching, he underlines the mission of John with regards to the Messiah. According to Saint Paul, Jesus is the Savior whom God has brought to Israel from David’s posterity. The prophet John heralds the coming of the Savior by proclaiming a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. The baptism of repentance performed by John at River Jordan is a powerful call and an intense symbol of turning to God and reconciliation with him, a saving event to be completely achieved in the paschal sacrifice of the Messiah Jesus Christ.

 

Like John the Baptist we can be instruments of conversion and “heralds” of Christ’s coming into the life of a person. The following personal testimony is insightful (cf. Mike McGarvin, Papa Mike, Fresno: Poverello House, 2003, p. 59-60, 64).

 

Like Father Simon, Brother Kurt was a mystery to me, but in a different way. Father Simon was a pillar of strength, a wise, loving example, and very much a loner. I marveled at his energy, his intelligence, and the depth of his sacrifice, and I wondered how he did it, day after day, year after year.

 

Brother Kurt impressed me in many of the same ways. However, I saw more of his flaws up close, and it made him very accessible. Father Simon taught me that God is love, and that loving people directly translated into loving people. Brother Kurt taught me that God loves us just as we are, warts and all. Perhaps more than anything, his humanity endeared him to me. (…)

 

Kurt was just as tenacious in the various tasks he performed as a Franciscan. He loved people, and he kept plugging along in his difficult lonely vocation of service. God had called him to the Franciscans, and he was there to obey the call. He was full of human frailty, but he knew it and didn’t let his imperfections deter his dedication to his calling.

 

In some ways, he was the perfect friend for me at the time. Even though I was big and rough, I was emotionally and spiritually fragile. Christianity was new and in many ways frightening, and Kurt put me at ease. He had many shortcomings, but I wouldn’t have felt comfortable with someone who had it all together, or who was spiritually lofty.

 

Without Father Simon, I might have eventually destroyed myself. His life reflected the shining light of Jesus, and guided me out of a terrible darkness. Without Kurt, I might have fallen away from the faith in despair, because I would have become so discouraged about my sins and inadequacies. Each man reflected a different aspect of the Christian faith, and I needed both to continue being healed of my past. (…)

 

God was transforming my life through Poverello. Joining the Catholic Church gave me a new outlook, and my life had new meaning now. (…)

  

 

II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO

 

1. How does the vocation and consecration of John the Baptist inspire us? Do we believe that we too have been called by God from birth and entrusted with a prophetic mission in today’s world?

 

2. What is the meaning of the birth of John the Baptist and the name “JOHN” given to him by God from his mother’s womb? How did the neighbors and relatives respond to the saving event experienced by Elizabeth and Zechariah? Like them do we allow ourselves to be filled with joy in the Lord?

 

3. Do we contemplate devoutly the meaning of the Lord’s baptism and the role of John the Baptist as the precursor of the Messiah? Do we imitate John the Baptist in his mission to point to the Messiah and to bear total witness on his behalf, even to the point of death?

 

 

III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO 

 

We bless and praise you, O Lord, the God of Israel.

As we give you thanks for Jesus, the Day Spring,

we also thank you for his cousin John,

the prophet of the Most High.

He prepares the Messiah’s way

and disposes our hearts for the forgiveness of sins.

O loving God,

help us to imitate John’s faithful messianic ministry

and his personal integrity.

As we celebrate today his marvelous birth,

grant us the grace to imitate him

in his courageous witnessing on behalf of truth.

You live and reign,

forever and ever.

Amen.

 

 

IV. INTERIORIZATION OF THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the CONTEMPLATIO

 

The following is the bread of the living Word that will nourish us throughout the day. Please memorize it.

 

             “The hand of the Lord was with him.” (Lk 1:66)

 

 

V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO

 

Pray that the Christian disciples of today may truly understand the great role of John the Baptist in preparing the way and in bearing witness to Jesus Christ. In the surroundings where you live, endeavor to be like the Baptist in giving witness to truth and in your prophetic stance against the culture of death and falsehood of today’s society.

 

***

 

June 25, 2015: THURSDAY – WEEKDAY (12)

“JESUS SAVIOR: He Teaches Us to Build Upon the Rock”

 

BIBLE READINGS

Gn 16:1-12, 15-16 // Mt 7:21-29

 

 

I. BIBLICO-LITURGICAL REFLECTIONS: A Pastoral Tool for the LECTIO

 

Outward symbols must correspond to inner reality. Pious practices and confession with the lips are laudable, but are not enough; total obedience to the will of God and right actions are necessary. Using the powerful image of a solid foundation, Jesus tells his disciples that his teaching is the only safe foundation upon which one should build one’s life. Any other foundation spells destruction. The Divine Master calls us to build our lives on the rock of his living word and put it into practice. We must not simply proclaim in words that Jesus is Lord and call upon him as our Lord Savior. We must act in a way that corresponds to the inner strength of our word. Our actions must give witness to the faith we profess.  Our worship of God must be incarnated in the life we live.

 

The following story of Jo Dee Baker from Slidell, Louisiana, whose lovely house and beautiful garden were devastated by Hurricane Katrina, tells of a community of believers whose efficacious faith is founded on a solid foundation (cf. “Angels on the Move” in Guideposts, Large Print Edition, March 2006, p. 5-9). Both Jo, the victim of a natural calamity, and the caregivers from the Baptist Church illustrate how wonderful and marvelous is a faith that is put into practice.

 

My beautiful yard was a mess of uprooted trees and debris; the salt water had burned the grass a sickly brown. My lovely white picket fence lay on its side, and shingles from my roof littered the ground like fallen leaves. Inside, slimy mud covered the floors, and water from the storm surge had tossed all my furniture upside down. The walls were caked black with mildew. Practically everything I owned was ruined. How could I ever come back from this? How could anyone? (…)

 

So many people needed help, and help was spread thin. “Lord”, I prayed, “I need some divine intervention here.” The next day, I pulled up to my house just as a man with a pickup truck was slowly passing by. He stopped, rolled down the window and leaned out. “Do you need any help?” he shouted. I laughed halfheartedly. “Help? I need an army,” I said. “I’m Brother Johnny from First Baptist Church of Pontchatoula.” He wrote down my name, address and number. “We’ll be in touch, Ma’am.” Then he drove off. But after two weeks I still hadn’t heard from him.

 

One Monday morning, lugging another bag of my ruined treasures to the curb, I stared down the street at the mountains of trash and destroyed homes. “So many people have lost so much,” I thought. Just then, my cell phone rang. Service was still spotty, but the voice on the other end was loud and clear. “Hello, it’s Brother Johnny. I’ve got some people who want to volunteer to help you. They’ll be calling you.” That was it. He hung up. Then the phone rang again. “Jo Dee? This is Jimmy Brown. I’m from the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Rives, Tennessee. We need to know what you need, exactly.” Where to begin? I told him about the mildewed floors, the torn up roof. “Don’t worry, Ma’am. We’ll be there. See you next Tuesday morning.” (…)

 

Nineteen people had traveled all the way from Tennessee just to help little old me. They spent three days cleaning the rot and grime and putting on my new roof. Two weeks after they left, about 40 more, from an association of 45 churches, came to finish the job! They ripped out and replaced the flooring, repainted the house, put in new shelves and cabinets, installed a stove and a water heater. By the time they were done, the house looked better than ever!

 

***

 

Today’s Old Testament reading (Gn 16:1-12, 15-16) is a colorful account of the birth of Ishmael, Abraham’s progeny. Abraham’s barren wife Sarah takes the initiative to remedy the lack of descendants to insure the clan’s life-line. Following the ancient world custom and legal code, she proposes to her husband to impregnate her Egyptian maid Hagar. The offspring will be considered her legal child. Hagar is expected to humbly grant this right to her mistress, but instead she assumes an arrogant attitude of superiority over Sarah. This is understandable since childbearing is the most important marker of a woman’s status in that ancient culture. Likewise, it is understandable and perfectly legitimate for Sarah to insist that Abraham vindicate her. Following the law, Abraham returns Hagar to Sarah’s control. Sarah deals with her so severely that Hagar runs away from her.

 

The Lord’s messenger appears to Hagar by a spring in the wilderness and extends to her God’s promise to make of her son Ishmael, Abraham’s descendant, a great nation. God’s promise to Abraham of progeny and posterity slowly unfolds. The divine plan for Abraham as “father of nations” will be partly fulfilled through his son Ishmael. But first Hagar must return home and humbly submit to her mistress Sarah.

 

From Ishmael’s descendants the Arabs came forth: Islam, the third great world religion that has its origin from Abraham, and is the fruit of God’s promise of progeny and posterity to him. Against this backdrop of the common origin of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity from Abraham, we are called to live in greater unity and brotherhood with one another. Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike – we are all part of the fulfillment of God’s promise. We all originate from Abraham, our father in faith.

 

The following story illustrates what it means when the spirit of brotherhood reigns among us (cf. Patricia Lorenz, “Ali and the Angel” in Chicken Soup for the Soul, Cos Cob: CSS, 2008, p. 255-257).

 

A few days after Thanksgiving, the pastor of a small church in South Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was shopping at a large mall north of Milwaukee. He wandered into a temporary store set up just for the holiday season, which contained one-of-a-kind statues and sculptures purchased from museums all over the world. Most of the stunning brass and bronze statues were life size. Some were over eight feet tall.

 

As Pastor Ron wandered down the first aisle, he looked at the prices, thousands of dollars for each. He wondered who could possibly afford to put one of those statues in their home. Certainly no one from my small church, he mused. I doubt if there’s a house in South Milwaukee big enough to do justice to one of those enormous statues.

 

Pastor Ron wandered up another aisle when he saw it. The angel. An incredible angel … approximately four feet tall, cast bronze, with a six-foot wing span and the most beautiful face the pastor had ever seen. Thinking about the memorial/hospitality room he was dreaming about for the back of his church, he stepped forward and turned over the price tag. He gasped when he saw $7,000 in neat black letters. “Whew! Too steep for our church”, Pastor Ron muttered. His church only had about eight hundred families, mostly blue-collar workers struggling from paycheck to paycheck.

 

Just then a tall, striking gentleman who seemed to be of Middle Eastern descent walked up. “May I be of help? The angel, she is beautiful, yes?” “Oh, without a doubt. The most beautiful angel I’ve ever seen.” Pastor Ron said wistfully. “But unfortunately I need to look at something smaller.” He followed the dark-haired man to the rear of the store where he pointed out another angel, this one only eighteen inches tall. “No, this is too small”, Pastor Ron said.  Even the little angel was beyond the price range for his church. “We want to build a memorial”, Pastor Ron began, “but we don’t have much money to …” He stopped talking when he realized the salesman was no doubt of a different faith and perhaps wouldn’t understand.

 

Pastor Ron followed the man up the aisle toward the front of the store where the first angel, the most beautiful one, stood with arms outstretched. Once more Pastor Ron paused to admire the delicate beauty of the sculpture and the peace radiating from the angel’s face. He took a deep breath and started to thank the man for his time, when the salesman spoke, “Tell me again. What is it you need the angel for?” “Our church. I’m the pastor of a small church in South Milwaukee. We want to build a memorial, a sort of hospitality room in the back of church. A place to celebrate the living as well. We’ll have a bulletin board for photos of weddings, baptisms, confirmations … and I, well, I’ve been hoping to find an angel to preside over this place of prayer and hospitality.”

 

“I see”, said the tall, serious man as he pulled a calculator out of his pocket. “My name is Ali”, he said, “I am the owner and manager. We travel all over the country with these exquisite museum pieces.” Ali punched numbers on his calculator. Then he cleared the total and started over. Pastor Ron felt his shoulders sink as he thought to himself, “Even if he gives us a discount of twenty, thirty, or even fifty percent, we still can’t afford this angel. What am I doing here in a place where original, one-of-a-kind pieces of artwork are on display?” He began to feel uncomfortable, wishing he’d passed by this store during his visit to the mall.

 

Finally, Ali finished fiddling with the calculator. “How does this look?” he said as he held the calculator in front of Pastor Ron’s eyes. “I will even deliver the angel to your church for you personally”, he said. Pastor Ron jerked back a bit when he saw the figure. “Sixteen hundred dollars! Are you sure? You do mean the large angel, this one, the one priced at seven thousand dollars?” “Yes. The artist signed this cast bronze angel. It is a museum masterpiece.” “But why?” It was all Pastor Ron could mutter. Ali spoke softly. “Because I, too, am a spiritual man. I am a Muslim. I would rather see this angel in a house of prayer than in someone’s home. All I ask is that on the day you put this angel in your church you ask your people to pray for Ali.”

 

On the day Ali and his father delivered the angel to the little church in South Milwaukee, Pastor Ron began to understand a little more about angels. He learned that not all angels are gilded with copper and bronze. Not all of them have wings and small delicate faces. Some of them are tall with dark hair and black mustaches. One of them is a Muslim named Ali.

 

 

II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO

 

1. Is our faith solidly built on the word of God? Is it efficacious and operative? How do we translate our faith into action?  

 

2. What does the story of the birth of Ishmael tell us about God’s mysterious plan of salvation? Do we value the common origin that we – Christians – have with the Jews and the Muslims as progenies of the patriarch Abraham?

 

 

III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO

 

Loving Father,

give us the wisdom of the Holy Spirit

that we may make the right choices

and be faithful to the kingdom values.

Assist us to trust in the saving word of Jesus.

May our faith be true and shown by our actions.

When the rains of temptation fall

and the floods of evil come,

let us not yield to despair,

but rather, increase our faith in Jesus.

He is our refuge and stronghold,

our rock of strength and true foundation,

now and forever.

Amen.

 

***

God our Father,

marvelous are your ways.

You made Ishmael, Abraham’s progeny, a great nation.

Help us to value our common origin with them

from patriarch Abraham, our father in faith,

Help us to promote interreligious dialogue

with the Jews and Muslims of today’s world.

Teach us to cultivate the spirit of brotherhood

among Christian, Jewish and Muslim believers.

We love and serve you,

our loving Creator God.

We adore your saving plan

and give you praise, now and forever.

Amen.

 

 

IV. INTERIORIZATION OF THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the CONTEMPLATIO

 

The following is the bread of the living Word that will nourish us throughout the day. Please memorize it.

 

“Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock.” (Mt 7:21-29) //“You shall name him Ishmael for the Lord has heard you. God has answered you.” (Gn 16:11) 

 

 

V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO

 

When life trials seem to submerge you, pray to God that he may strengthen your faith. Extend your helping hand and share the Word with those whose faith is wavering. // Pray for our Muslim brothers and sisters all over the world. Do whatever you can to promote interreligious dialogue.

  

 

***

 

June 26, 2015: FRIDAY – WEEKDAY (12)

“JESUS SAVIOR: He Cleanses Lepers”

 

BIBLE READINGS

Gn 17:1, 9-10, 15-22// Mt 8:1-4

 

 

I. BIBLICO-LITURGICAL REFLECTIONS: A Pastoral Tool for the LECTIO

 

It was in 1984 when I visited the PDDM Sisters in Nellore, India. To give me a chance to know more about the local Church, they brought me to the diocesan leper colony. It was situated in a vast isolated farmland, dotted with the humble dwellings of the lepers. The sun was scorching as we plodded through the dusty roads. The inhabitants were gentle and hospitable. We were conversing with them from a safe distance, when an elderly leper lady thoughtfully opened a battered umbrella and came near to shield me from the noonday sun. I politely rejected the proffered kindness, explaining that I needed the therapeutic warmth of the sun. I did not want to hurt her feelings, but I was afraid to stay close to a leper. I dreaded to touch a leper!

 

In today’s Gospel reading (Mt 8:1-4), we have a very beautiful picture of Christian compassion. In this narrative, Jesus offers a completely new and radical response to the unmitigated human suffering personified by a leper. Breaking down the barriers of hygiene and ritual purity, Jesus does the unimaginable. Responding with compassion to the leper’s faith invocation, “If you wish, you can make me clean”, Jesus stretches out his hand and touches him saying, “I do will it. Be made clean.” He touches the “untouchable” with his healing hand. He comforts the outcast with an authoritative word that brings wholeness. Indeed, the cleansing of the leper is a victorious messianic sign that the Kingdom of God has come. 

 

One of the exigencies of Christian life is to bring the healing ministry of Jesus to the many “lepers” of today, especially the millions of victims of Hansen’s disease all over the world who, more than all others, fit the description “the poorest of the poor”. Mother Teresa of Calcutta dedicated her ministry of charity in a special way to these lepers, impelled by the slogan that was a rewording of the ancient taboo. “Touch a leper with your compassion.” Mother Teresa, moreover, spoke of the “leprosy of the Western world”, which is, the leprosy of loneliness. In her ministry to the lonely, the unwanted, the marginalized, the rejected, the AIDS victim, etc. she had given witness that with the love of Christ, there is healing for the leprosy of our modern times. Indeed, Mother Teresa of Calcutta, together with St. Francis of Assisi, Blessed Damien of Molokai, and many other Christian disciples, had shown that it is possible to respond to the Christian missionary imperative: “Cure the sick … cleanse the lepers!” (Mt 10:8) and that it is necessary to replicate the healing gesture of Christ: “Touch a leper with your compassion.”

 

***

 

Today’s Old Testament reading (Gn 17:1, 9-10, 15-22) presents an episode in the life of Abraham, now ninety-nine years old, thirteen years after the birth of Ishmael, whose mother is Sarah’s slave girl, Hagar. Revealing himself to Abraham as “El Shaddai” (“the God Almighty”), the Lord renews his covenant with him. The covenant is portrayed as a contract: God will give him many descendants; Abraham, on his part, is commanded to walk in the divine presence with blameless heart. What is unique in this encounter is God’s promise of an “everlasting covenant”. The covenant is not just with Abraham, but with all generations after him. It entails a new relationship: “El Shaddai”, who makes a covenant with Abraham, will be his God and the God of his descendants.

 

God’s covenant relationship with Abraham and his kin is physically signified through circumcision: every male is to be circumcised to indicate submission to the divine will. On his part, God will recognize the circumcised as a covenant partner. Abraham’s ninety-year-old wife Sarah plays an essential role in the fulfillment of the divine covenant promise. The barren and elderly Sarah, through divine intervention, will give birth to Abraham’s “son of the promise”, Isaac. Of him “El Shaddai” says: “I will maintain my covenant with him as an everlasting pact.” Although Abraham has suggested Ishmael to be the heir of the promise, God has an ineffable plan. The “everlasting covenant” will be fulfilled, not through Ishmael – who will likewise be blessed with numerous descendants – but through Isaac. And from Abraham’s son Isaac, a future descendant named Jesus Christ will fulfill, and bring to perfection, the “everlasting covenant”.

 

The beautiful Bible account of God’s predilection for Abraham and the latter’s total submission to his loving plan inspires us to live in the spirit of brotherhood with the people of today – no matter our racial and religious differences. The following story illustrates how wonderful it is to live in a spirit of compassion, harmony, and brotherhood (cf. Michael Jordan Segal, “A Beautiful Prayer” in Chicken Soup for the Soul, Cos Cob: CSS, 2008, p. 267-268).

 

My father is the most unselfish person I know – always thinking of others first before himself. Perhaps that is why he chose to be a rabbi, to serve God by helping other people.

 

Every Christmas, my father Rabbi Jack Segal volunteers at a hospital in Houston so Christian employees can spend Christmas with their loved ones. One particular Christmas he was working the telephone switchboard at the hospital, answering basic questions and transferring phone calls.

 

One of the calls he received was from a woman, obviously upset. “Sir, I understand my nephew was in a terrible car accident this morning. Please tell me how he is.” After the woman gave my father the boy’s name, he checked the computer and said, according to the protocol at that time, “Your nephew is listed in critical condition. I’m truly sorry. I hope he’ll get better.”

 

As soon as my father said “critical”, the woman immediately began to sob and she screamed, “Oh, my God! What should I do? What should I do? Hearing those words, my father softly stated, “Prayer might be helpful at this time.” The woman quickly replied, “Yes – oh, yes. But it’s been ten years since I’ve been to church and I’ve forgotten how to pray”, then asked, “Sir, do you know how to pray? Could you say a prayer for me while I listen on the phone?”

 

My father quickly answered, “Of course”, and began saying the ancient prayer for healing in Hebrew, the Mee Shebayroch. He concluded, “Amen”. “Thank you, thank you so much”, the woman on the phone replied. “However”, she went on, “I truly appreciate your prayer, but I have one major problem. I did not understand the prayer, since I do not speak Spanish.

 

My father inwardly chuckled and said, “Ma’am, that was not Spanish. I’m a rabbi, and that prayer was in Hebrew.” The woman sighed heavily in relief. “Hebrew? That’s great. That’s God’s language. Now he won’t need a translator!”

 

 

II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO

 

1. How do we react to people physically and spiritually afflicted with leprosy? Do we recognize the leprous elements in our modern society who bear the detestable sores of isolation and rejection, e.g. the poor and destitute, the homeless, the unattractive, the AIDS victims, etc.? Do we come to their aid?

 

2. How does the person of patriarch Abraham inspire us? Do we imitate his total and loving response to God and his promise of an “everlasting covenant”?

 

 

III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO

 

Lord Jesus,

if you will, you can make me clean.

Touch me; heal me.

Cleanse me from the “leprosy of sin”.

Free me from the sores of rejection and isolation.

You are the wounded healer

and the bearer of new life

by your passion and death on the cross

and by the power of your resurrection.

You live, forever and ever.

Amen.

 

***

O loving Lord,

you are our “El Shaddai”, the “Almighty God”.

We thank you for the gift of the “eternal covenant”

you established with Abraham, our father in faith.

Above all, we thank you for your Son Jesus Christ,

Abraham’s illustrious descendant,

who brought to perfection this covenant

by pouring out his sacrificial blood on the tree of life.

Pour upon us the blessings of the “everlasting covenant”

and help us share them with the peoples of all nations.

You live and reign, forever and ever.

Amen.   

 

 

IV. INTERIORIZATION OF THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the CONTEMPLATIO

 

The following is the bread of the living Word that will nourish us throughout the day. Please memorize it.

 

“He touched him.” (Mk 1:41) //“You must keep my covenant throughout the ages.”  (Gn 17:9)

 

 

V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO   

 

Pray for the victims of Hansen’s disease all over the world and all caregivers who work to alleviate their pain and suffering. Through moral, spiritual and material support, contribute to their healing and restoration. // Pray for the Jewish people that they may continue to grow in the love of God and in faithfulness to the covenant. Do what you can to promote the unity of the peoples of the earth.

 

 

*** 

 

June 27, 2015: SATURDAY – WEEKDAY (12); SAINT CYRIL OF ALEXANDRIA, Bishop. Doctor of the Church; BVM ON SATURDAY

“JESUS SAVIOR: He Heals the Centurion’s Servant”

 

BIBLE READINGS

Gn 18:1-15 // Mt 8:5-17

 

 

This is a true story. A small Jewish boy realized that his teenage nanny, a Catholic, wishes him well. She even accompanies him to the synagogue when his daddy is not around. There she would encourage him to get into the serious business of praying. One day his dear nanny became seriously ill. She was in the hospital dying of pneumonia. The boy requested his dad to accompany him to her parish church so that he could pray there for her healing. The Jewish dad shook his finger at him, but finally relented. They went to the Catholic parish church.  The boy knelt in a pew and poured out his heart to God in prayer. The beloved nanny recovered. She continued to serve at that Jewish household for many, many years.

 

The reading (Mt 8:5-17) depicts one of the most lovable figures in the Gospel: the Roman centurion who approached Jesus saying, “Lord, my servant is lying home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully.” He is a person of immense compassion for he pleaded for a suffering servant. He is mighty in military power but humble and gentle of heart. He is a foreigner, but sympathetic to the Jews. He is respectful of the Jewish culture for he does not wish Jesus to be defiled by going into his house – the house of a Gentile. Great is his faith in Jesus’ healing power for he humbly said to Jesus: “Lord, I am not worthy to have you under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.” Jesus expressed surprise and delight at his request. He healed his suffering servant and praised his great faith. The Lord Jesus reminds us that faith – expressed in goodness, compassion and humility - entitles us to share in the promises God made to the patriarchs.

 

***

 

Sr. Mary Jesusa and I were companions in the novitiate. After first profession we were assigned to the vocation ministry. It was our duty to follow up young ladies who showed interest in religious life and our Congregation. One damp, rainy day we boarded a bus and headed for Gumaca, a Philippine town on the Pacific coast, to interview an applicant who was residing there. The bus had already gone a considerable distance when the bus conductor started to collect the passengers’ fare and give them their tickets. I was shocked to know that Sr. Mary Jesusa did not bring sufficient money to pay for the trip. She emptied her wallet, but the fare was still lacking four pesos. The bus conductor kindly let go of the insufficient fare and allowed us to travel to our destination. Without even a cent, we arrived in Gumaca at about 2:00 P.M., after a seven-hour trip. The scenery was breathtaking. The coastal town of Gumaca, bordered by the immense Pacific Ocean and dotted with plantations of tall, fruit laden coconut trees, was a veritable tropical paradise.

 

We sought hospitality from the parish priest who unhesitatingly offered us a nourishing meal. He also requested lodging for us at the convent of the Sisters running the parochial school. After meeting and interviewing the applicant, we attended the Bible Study that the priest was conducting in his parish, participated mostly by low-income housewives. Sr. Mary Jesusa and I were glad to break the Bread of the Word with them. We shared our faith experience as well as our “adventure” that day. Some of them were deeply touched by what we shared. We thanked the priest and the parish community for their hospitality. After the Mass the following day, the women who were with us at the Bible Study bid us goodbye. Many of them handed us small amounts of money to help pay for our return trip. A poor widow, whose son was in jail, insisted that we should take her contribution. We were greatly touched by the generosity and sacrifice of that hospitable community. They had shown receptivity not only to the Word of God, but also hospitality to those in need of help. Indeed, their charitable action was based on listening and responding to the life-giving Word they had heard.

 

The Old Testament reading (Gen 18:1-15) speaks of the exquisite hospitality of patriarch Abraham and the warmth and kindness that a nomadic world could give to their guests. The Lord with his two companions appears to Abraham at Mamre as he sits in the entrance of his tent, while the day is growing hot. Abraham offers to wash the feet of his three guests and refresh them. His household prepares a luscious fare of food and drink for the mysterious guests. Abraham’s hospitality to the “three men” by the oak of Mamre manifests a deeper and more astounding “hospitality” – his receptivity and obedience to the Word of the Lord who has commanded him to leave behind his country, relatives and father’s home and set out for an unknown land, promising to make of him a great nation (cf. Gn 12:2). In the context of the feast offered by the hospitable Abraham, God intends to fulfill his promise. To Abraham who waits on them at table the Lord says, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah will then have a son” (Gen 18:10a). Indeed, Abraham’s hospitality to Yahweh and his faithful acceptance of his Word make possible the fulfillment of the divine promise and the covenant plan to make him a great nation.

 

 

II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO

 

1. Do I manifest the same faith, compassion and virtues as the Roman centurion who cares for a suffering servant?

 

2. Do we imitate Abraham’s hospitality and obedient stance to the divine word? Are we hospitable to the poor and the needy strangers?

 

 

III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO

 

Jesus Master,

we thank you for the sterling character of the Roman centurion.

He is a special model

of compassion, goodness, humility and faith in you.

With him, we cry out to you:

“Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof,

but only say the word,

and my soul shall be healed.”

We give you glory and praise,

now and forever.

Amen.

 

***

 O almighty God,

marvelous is your love!

You condescend to come to us.

You fill us with hope and abundant blessings.

Like the hospitable patriarch Abraham,

we open our hearts to you.

Let us rejoice in your presence,

now and forever.

Amen.

 

 

IV. INTERIORIZATION OF THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the CONTEMPLATIO

 

The following is the bread of the living Word that will nourish us throughout the day. Please memorize it.

 

“Lord, I am not worthy to have you under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.” (Mt 8:8) //“Is anything too marvelous for the Lord to do?” (Gn 18:14)

 

 

V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO

 

Show compassion, respect and caring love for the people around you, especially the subordinate, and uphold their dignity. // Be hospitable to the persons around you, especially those who have been rejected and feel unloved and unwelcome. To help us delve more deeply into our vocation to be hospitable to the Word of God, make an effort to spend some moments of quiet prayer before the Blessed Sacrament.   

  

 

 

***

 

 

Prepared by Sr. Mary Margaret Tapang  PDDM

 

 

PIAE DISCIPULAE DIVINI MAGISTRI

SISTER DISCIPLES OF THE DIVINE MASTER

60 Sunset Ave., Staten Island, NY 10314

Tel. (718) 494-8597 // (718) 761-2323

Website: WWW.PDDM.US

Go back