A Lectio Divina Approach to the Sunday & Weekday Liturgy
BREAKING THE BREAD OF THE WORD (Series 13, n. 5)
Holy Family & Christmas: Dec. 28, 2014 – January 3, 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: December 21-27, 2014, please go to ARCHIVES Series 13 and click on 4thSunday of Advent – Christmas”.
Below is a LECTIO DIVINA APPROACH TO THE SUNDAY - WEEKDAY LITURGY: December 28, 2014 – January 3, 2015.)
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December 28, 2014: THE HOLY FAMILY OF JESUS, MARY AND JOSEPH
“JESUS SAVIOR: He Makes Us Belong to the Family of God”
BIBLE READINGS
Year B: Gen 15:1-6; 21:1-3 // Heb 11:8, 11-12, 17-19 // Lk 2:22-40
I. BIBLICO-LITURGICAL REFLECTIONS: A Pastoral Tool for the LECTIO
This Sunday’s liturgy is an invitation not only to cherish the gift of the Holy Family of Nazareth and its inspiration for our own natural families, but also to promote the reality of a wider and more inclusive family – the family of God. This great family of God was generated by the Christmas-Easter mystery of the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ and the radical saving event of his passion, death and resurrection. Jesus Savior, a descendant of the patriarch Abraham, was born in Bethlehem and became an integral part of a domestic family in Nazareth - the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph - to unite all humankind into the one family of God.
Aelred Rosser comments: “The word family is one of the richest in our language. We use it to mean many different things, many kinds of relationships, many degrees of kinship, both distant and intimate … It is in the widest sense of family that we see the true meaning of today’s feast. For the emphasis is not so much on Mary, Joseph and Jesus in Nazareth as it is on the family of God, we who have become one family in the miracle of Christmas. The Word became flesh. The creator of all human beings became a human being – uniting us to each other in the most intimate and inclusive family ever known in human history … A very special notion of family permeates the first reading. We still refer to Abraham, as our father in faith … In faith we are the descendants of faithful Abraham, and so are brothers and sisters the world over … To the degree that we fail to recognize every human being as a member of one family, we fail to understand God’s irrevocable plan.”
Today’s Old Testament reading (Gen 15:1-6; 21:1-3) depicts a very special family – Abraham and Sarah, and their offspring Isaac, born from a miracle of faith. This ancient family became instruments of God’s saving plan, even and especially in the face of impossible and extremely difficult situations. By faith, a whole new race of descendants sprang forth from the “seed” of Abraham, who was advanced in years when Isaac was promised to him by God. With the birth of Isaac from the formerly barren womb of Abraham’s elderly wife Sarah, the long line of heirs resulting from God’s covenant with the patriarch began. From Abraham’s lineage would issue the Messiah - Jesus Christ, the “salvation” prepared by God in the sight of all peoples, the “light of revelation” to the nations.
Abraham’s tremendous faith response to God’s ongoing and progressive initiative to make a “family of nations” from his “seed” is underlined in the second reading of today’s liturgy (Heb 11:8, 11-12, 17-19). The patriarch responded wholeheartedly to the loving and faithful God who called him to journey into the “unknown”, who inspired him to believe in the divine promise of inheritance, and lastly, who challenged him to sacrifice the very pledge of that inheritance. By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance … By faith he received power to generate, even though he was past the normal age and Sarah herself was sterile … By faith Abraham, when put to the test, offered up Isaac, his only son, of whom it was said, Through Isaac descendants shall bear your name.”
The authors of the Days of the Lord, vol. 1, explicate: “Faith, therefore, is totally and completely placing oneself in the hands of God, not in blind obedience, but with the assurance of having a bond with him. It establishes a communion with God, wherein God’s promise and the destiny of the one who believes in his word are intertwined, and will always be so, no matter what happens. It allows one to walk in the right direction with the humble –sometimes painful – confidence, as if we could see the invisible.”
Against the backdrop of the faith response manifested by Abraham and the role played by his ancient family in salvation history, we see in the Gospel reading (Lk 2:22-40) the tremendous importance of the Holy Family of Nazareth in preparing the universal “family of God”. In the faith response of Jesus, Mary and Joseph to God’s mysterious saving design for humanity, we see an irrevocable movement towards the formation of God’s family. Indeed, the more our vision is enlightened by faith and our actions animated by it, the more the human race will become a “family” - the “family of God”.
Harold Buetow remarks: “We will become the family of humanity, the family of church, the family of God when all the stereotypes are gone, when all the ancient grudges and prejudices and fears are gone – when we look at ourselves and every human being as a family member, each one of us … We balk, we scoff, but then we let faith take over and become channels of grace in spite of ourselves. There is no better example for us to follow than Jesus, of course. Jesus saw great potential in the weak and the sinful, the odd and the outcast. He also saw potential in the proud and obstinate, the coldhearted and the cynical, the angry and the resentful. He could do this – and we too – because he saw that pride is really insecurity, obstinacy is really fear, hard-heartedness and cynicism and resentment are simply pain in disguise. By faith, we see through such disguises and recognize ourselves behind all of them.”
In his Christmas Message 2008 to the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Cardinal Roger Mahony speaks of the deeper solidarity that should animate the family of humankind and the family of God. It comes from our shared faith in Jesus Christ and in his Gospel. In the face of today’s tremendous economic crisis that has generated many fears, worries, uncertainties and insecurities in the world, God’s Christmas gift to us, Jesus - Son of God and Son of Mary - is our source of hope and the point of solidarity. Cardinal Mahony asserts: “There is a deeper recognition that all of us – rich, middle class, poor – have been affected by the financial crisis wreaking havoc in the world. We are being challenged to adopt a new frame of mind, a new understanding of Christmas, in which there is a deeper solidarity among us all. The point of solidarity is the poor infant who lies in a manger. In him the rich and the poor come together: kings and paupers; wise men and shepherds come to behold the gift that is given to them. And to us. All of us. Our solidarity with one another rests in this gift of God who comes poor to all of us.”
The following story about Evan gives us a glimpse into his journey towards personal and family integration (cf. “Hardship and Christmas Miracles” in POVERELLO NEWS, December 2008, p. 3-4). It is a Christmas miracle that heartens us and illustrates how the spirit of solidarity is at work in the “family of God”.
Experiencing a bleak Christmas is a common occurrence for people ending up at Poverello House; however, the current big political and cultural events don’t necessarily affect the outlook of the homeless and poor, primarily because their day-to-day existence is already so grim. In much the same way as economically shell-shocked people this year mourn the passing of better days, the homeless mourn the passing of their former lives, which can seldom be regained.
Evan (not his real name) was one such person. Christmas of 2005 found him someplace he didn’t want to be: in the Poverello House Resident Program. His work and family life had come unraveled due to his and his wife’s addictions. By nature a kind and hardworking man, methamphetamine dependence had turned him into a raging, abusive spouse. He was incarcerated as a result of his violent actions. He lost everything, including his six children, all of whom he dearly loved. He had run out of hope until Jimmie, our Program Director, came to the county jail and interviewed him for our program. Evan was released into the custody of Poverello House. His probation required him to complete the Resident Program. That first Christmas at Poverello, nothing looked very promising in his life.
However, along the way, something changed inside of him. He began to really want sobriety and the benefits that come from living without drugs. He was determined to finish what he started at Poverello, and he followed through on that determination. He then chose to move into the transitional phase of our program, a phase designed to be a step toward a better future. He was observed to have talent in our kitchen and a knack for leadership, and he began to formulate a dream of attending a culinary institute. As Evan grew emotionally stronger, he reconnected with his children and began spending time with them. Eventually, Poverello helped him begin a local program in chef training.
Now, three years later, Evan is working toward completion of his schooling and has found some part-time work as a chef. In fact, he has developed a growing reputation as a chef with great ability, and has even prepared a meal for a celebrity fundraiser. He is beginning to be in demand in his profession, a situation that would have been unimaginable to him in 2005, when he felt like a complete failure.
This Christmas will be perhaps the best yet for him. As we all know, Christmas is very special when there is family harmony, and his family relationships are better than ever. Evan’s parents now have custody of his children, and he is able to see them weekly. He has come to know them better, and a great deal of hurt has been healed by his efforts. Evan has achieved over three years of continuous sobriety; is on his way to certification as a chef; and is working in a field that promises to provide a good living, respect from others, and an outlet for his creativity. (…)
If Evan’s life can turn around so dramatically, then anything might happen during the magical and mystical season we call Christmas. The holiday began over 2,000 years ago with a miracle in a tiny stable. For those with the eyes to see, yuletide miracles still occur, and that fact should encourage us in hard times.
II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO
1. What insights have you gleaned from God’s covenant initiative to make of Abraham a great “family” and to bless him with numerous descendants? What was Abraham’s response to God’s loving plan?
2. How does the author of the letter to the Hebrews underline the faith of Abraham? Do we endeavor to imitate the response of Abraham, our “father in faith”? What is the importance of a vision of faith in promoting family life and the saving plan of God?
3. What do the patriarch Abraham’s family and the Holy Family of Nazareth teach us about collaborating in the saving plan of God? How do we contribute to promoting the value of family life in a domestic setting and in the universal setting as “family of God”?
III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO
Leader: Loving Father,
we thank you for the faith of Abraham, Sarah and Isaac.
From the “seed” of patriarch Abraham
issued forth the “family of faith”.
In the fullness of time,
the Messiah, Jesus Christ, was born from Abraham’s lineage.
Your divine, saving Word became man
to unite the fragmented “family of the human race”
into the one, great “family of God”.
O merciful and provident God,
give us the grace to be living and active members
of “the family redeemed by Christ”
and to be efficacious instruments of peace and harmony for all.
Fill us with the faith of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
and teach us the meaning of “human solidarity”.
Help us to be thankful for the astounding Christmas gift,
Jesus Christ, your divine Son.
He assumed our weakness and fragility
for the salvation of the world.
We give you glory and praise, now and forever.
Assembly: 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.
“My eyes have seen your salvation.” (Lk 2:30)
V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO
Pray for “family solidarity” in all levels. By your peaceful stance and works of charity, especially on behalf of the poor and the needy, and the unfortunate victims of the economic crisis, endeavor to promote the unity and integrity of the “family of nations” and of the “family of God”. That we may give glory and praise to God the Father for his “Christmas” gift in the person of our Savior Jesus Christ and to promote the growth of the “family of God”, make an effort to spend some moments of quiet prayer before the Blessed Sacrament.
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December 29, 2014: MONDAY – FIFTH DAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD; SAINT THOMAS BECKET, bishop, martyr
“JESUS SAVIOR: He Is the Fulfillment of the Promise”
BIBLE READINGS
I Jn 2:3-11 // Lk 2:22-35
I. BIBLICO-LITURGICAL REFLECTIONS: A Pastoral Tool for the LECTIO
As the Christmas liturgy unfolds, we continue to delve into the meaning of the birth of Jesus, the Son of God. We have seen that Christmas is marked with a sacrificial character (cf. feast of St. Stephen) and Easter glory (cf. feast of St. John) and that the incarnation of the Word is God’s compassionate response to our dire need of salvation from evil and sin (cf. feast of the Holy Innocents).
On the fifth day within the octave of Christmas, we contemplate the presentation of Jesus in the temple (Lk 2:22-35) and his encounter with Simeon, a good and God-fearing man waiting for the consolation of Israel. Deeply receptive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, Simeon took the child in his arms and recognized in him the Lord’s promised Messiah. With praise and thanksgiving, Simeon avowed that the Lord God has kept his promise. Simeon felt ready to die and, with the Savior of all peoples in his arms, he exclaimed: “Lord, now let your servant go in peace, your word has been fulfilled.” Indeed, Simeon’s encounter with the child Jesus was a joyful celebration of God’s benevolence and faithfulness.
Mr. Ledesma, the father of Sr. Mary Noelle, PDDM, and Piesy, who worked closely with me in the World Youth Day ’95 in Manila, was one of the kindest and most generous persons I have ever met in my life. Sr. Mary Noelle’s account of her dad’s passing to eternity makes me think of Simeon’s beautiful encounter with Jesus, the Savior of the world.
Thank you, Sr. Margaret. I must have missed communicating to you RE our dad’s passing last October 26. Well, thanks be to God! Daddy had a happy and holy death. We were with him during his suffering and last hours and last breath.
Death is such a mystery and a beautiful passage to eternity. I’ve experienced how dad encountered the presence of the Lord and we were all around him. We prayed for him and we also listened and talked to him. How I wish I could tell all dad’s beautiful words and exchange of conversations with Jesus. Some of his last words after he asked and kissed the Crucifix were: “Do I have a place there?” [PAUSE] “Let us now all rest.” Then he looked at mommy and his gaze transcended beyond mom’s face towards the light. He smiled and then expired. Mom closed his lips and eyes.
II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO
Do we allow ourselves to be guided by the Holy Spirit and so recognize the coming of our Savior Jesus Christ in our life? Do we deeply yearn for the salvation that Jesus brings?
III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO
Lord Jesus,
you were presented by Joseph and Mary in the temple.
Simeon, who had waited for the consolation of Israel,
had waited for you.
Prompted by the Holy Spirit,
he took you in his arms
and recognized that you are the promised Messiah.
With Simeon, we celebrate the fulfillment of the messianic promise
and extol the Father’s benevolence and fidelity.
Help us to live a holy and devout life
and let us relish the joyful mystery of your coming as our Savior.
Grant that in our final encounter with you at the hour of death,
we may be able to resound Simeon’s words:
“Lord, now let your servant go in peace;
your word has been fulfilled.”
With the holy servants of God, we acclaim:
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will!
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, now let your servant go in peace; your word has been fulfilled.” (cf. Lk 2:29)
V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO
Pray that the community of disciples may truly live a holy and devout life that will make them responsive to the coming of Jesus Savior in our lives. In your ministry to the elderly and the dying, let your acts of charity and sharing of the word of God bring them peace and consolation.
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December 30, 2014: TUESDAY – SIXTH DAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD
“JESUS SAVIOR: He Is the Redemption of Jerusalem”
BIBLE READINGS
I Jn 2:12-17 // Lk 2:36-40
I. BIBLICO-LITURGICAL REFLECTIONS: A Pastoral Tool for the LECTIO
In today’s First Reading (I Jn 2:12-17), the author, John, speaks to three age groups representing three different stages of Christian life. The “children” represent those who have been initiated into faith through baptism. Through personal experience of the Father, they are freed from sin for the sake of Christ. The “young men” are the spiritually proficient. Their strength is derived from the word of God and they are able to conquer the evil one. The “fathers” are the spiritually mature and their knowledge of the Father is secure and unmovable. They do not love the world and the things of the world. Since they do the will of God, they live forever. The qualities and destiny of the “spiritually mature” are exemplified by the Gospel personages, Simeon and Anna.
Today’s Gospel episode (Lk 2:36-40) is within the context of the presentation of the Lord Jesus in the temple and his saving “encounter” with the prophet Simeon and the prophetess Anna. The two prophets speak in glowing terms of Jesus as the salvation of every people and as the redemption of Jerusalem, which represents all the elect. Today’s focus is on the prophetess Anna, a holy widow advanced in years. She spent most of her life in the temple worshipping night and day with fasting and prayer. At the presentation of Jesus, she recognizes the infant as the gift of God. Anna gives thanks to God and testifies about the child to all who wait for the redemption of Jerusalem.
On a gloomy day in early December, safe in the car’s passenger seat, I pressed the satellite radio’s Search button. Christmas music seemed to be on every one of the four hundred channels – not celebrating the birth of Jesus, but mixing merchandise and carols together into electronic jungles. The meaning of the season seemed to slip away, drowned out by the relentless message that Christmas is about gifts and food. Loneliness seemed to be speaking out of all the good cheer.
I pushed another button, and suddenly the car was filled with glorious sounds of the last part of Ludwig van Beethoven’s magnificent Ninth Symphony, known as the “Ode to Joy”, which is also the music for Henry Van Dyke’s great hymn “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee”:
Ever singing march we onward
Victors in the midst of strife,
Joyful music leads us Sunward
In the triumph song of life.
Beethoven was only thirty-two and at the height of his career when he realized he was going deaf. He faced depression and loneliness. Yet some of his greatest music, including this passionate expression of joy and praise, was composed after he could no longer hear it performed.
As the music surrounded me, the irritations of the ceaseless electronic carols seemed very small. Beethoven believed in himself and in his God, and shared his gifts with countless millions of us who need to be reminded of the joy of faith.
II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO
Do we imitate Simeon and Anna in our yearning for the Lord and in preparing ourselves for our encounter with the gift of salvation? Are we able to perceive the presence of the Lord in our lives, and are we thankful for the Christmas gift from heaven?
III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO
Lord Jesus,
you are the heavenly gift awaited by Anna and Simeon,
and by all those longing for the redemption of Jerusalem and the nations.
Grant us the grace to perceive your presence
and to be ever thankful for you,
who are God’s Christmas present to us.
Help us to give witness to you as our saving Lord.
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 week. Please memorize it.
“Anna gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all those who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.” (Lk 2:38)
V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO
Be perceptive and thankful for the various presences of the Lord in your daily life. Like Anna and Simeon give witness to the good news about the Lord Jesus, especially to those who have difficulty experiencing his saving presence.
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December 31, 2014: WEDNESDAY – SEVENTH DAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD; SAINT SYLVESTER, Pope
“JESUS SAVIOR: He Is the Word Made Flesh
BIBLE READINGS
I Jn 2:18-21 // Jn 1:1-18
I. BIBLICO-LITURGICAL REFLECTIONS: A Pastoral Tool for the LECTIO
On the seventh day in the Octave of Christmas and on New Year’s Eve, we hear the deeply evocative Prologue of Saint John (Jn 1:1-18), which perceives the incarnation of the Word as God’s utmost revelation of love and glory. Christmas is a celebration of God speaking to us his most beautiful word – Jesus Christ! The Word made flesh is God’s “I love you” to us. The Word that the saving God spoke in the birth of Jesus manifests his deep compassion for us.
Saint Bernard asserts: “God’s Son came in the flesh so that mortal men could see and recognize God’s kindness … The incarnation teaches us how much God cares for us and what he thinks and feels about us. We should stop thinking of our own sufferings and remember what he has suffered. Let us think of all the Lord has done for us, and then we shall realize his goodness appeared through his humanity. The lesser he became through his human nature the greater was his goodness; the more he lowered himself for me, the dearer he is to me.”
The compassionate God continues to speak to us in the here and now through Scripture as the following testimony would show (cf. Brian Keilty, “It’s Not All About You” in The WORD Among Us (April 24 - May 31, 2011, p. 67-68).
We had just visited my wife’s oncologist, and the dreaded news he delivered initially left us quiet, reflective, and heart-broken. The doctor felt that Marybeth’s long and painful fight with cancer was, for all intents and purposes, over. The disease had progressed to the point where aggressive treatment was no longer advisable; the only remaining option was palliative care delivered through hospice. We had been married for nineteen years.
The bad news was not unique to us. Countless times that day, many thousands of other people throughout the world heard a similar message. But this diagnosis was ours. What made the trip home so extraordinary was that we talked not about the prognosis, not about our fears and anxieties, not about a future denied our young children, but about God and his speaking to us through Scripture.
Marybeth began the conversation (I remember the exact spot on the highway) by telling me of the joy, peace, and comfort she had received from God while reading Psalm 62 that very morning. She knew God was addressing her through its opening verses: “My soul rests in God alone from whom comes my salvation. God alone is my rock and salvation, my secure height; I shall never fall.”
Those words of comfort gave Marybeth peace and direction. It was God, not good health, who was to be the center of her life. His salvation was more important to her than her healing. During her final two months, those words also empowered her every day to guide and care for her children, as well as love and support her husband.
II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO
Are we awed by the tremendous saving event of the incarnation of the Word? How do we respond to this awesome saving mystery?
III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO
Lord Jesus, you are the most beautiful Word spoken by God the Father. In your birth, we hear the voice of the compassionate God speaking to our heart, “I love you … I will save you!” In you is the fullness of grace and truth. In this forthcoming New Year 2014, help us to become courageous heralds of your saving Gospel and to share with all your healing word of love and forgiveness. With all peoples and creation and all the choirs of angels we acclaim: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will!
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 Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” (cf. Jn 1:14)
V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO
Pray that people may truly perceive the meaning and implication of the Word made flesh. Resolve to spend more time to read the Scripture and break the bread of the Word. By your words and deeds, enable the people around you to experience that the divine Word is truly incarnate.
***
January 1, 2015: THURSDAY – THE OCTAVE OF THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD SOLEMNITY OF MARY, THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD
“JESUS SAVIOR: He Is Born of the Virgin Mary”
BIBLE READINGS
Nm 6:22-27 // Gal 4:4-7 // Lk 2:16-21
I. BIBLICO-LITURGICAL REFLECTIONS: A Pastoral Tool for the LECTIO
On the Octave of Christmas, we celebrate the oldest Marian feast in the Church, the solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. In this Marian feast we celebrate her intimate role in the Christmas mystery as the willing virgin who gave birth to the Son of God. Cardinal Leon Joseph Suenens remarks: “We find Mary at the very heart of the mystery of the incarnation. She is the mother of the one who will be for all future ages the way, the truth, and the life. The threshold of the one who, above all, can introduce us to Jesus … To our contemporary world Mary offers the living and vibrant reality, the incarnate Savior of the world.”
The solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, falls on New Year’s Day (January 1), the first day of the civil year – an occasion when people look back on the past and wish each other God’s abundant blessings. It is most opportune that the Old Testament reading for the New Year’s Mass is the Priestly Blessing from the book of Numbers (6:22-27). Prayed in the context of the Christmas-Marian feast, it evokes the truth that Mary, Mother of God, is the utmost recipient of God’s blessing. In the motherhood of Mary, the icon of the blessed of God, the fullness of blessing is given to the world through her divine Child, the Savior of the world - the Priest of the New Covenant.
Combined with the Gospel episode (Lk 2:16-21) of today’s Marian feast, the Priestly Blessing from the Book of Numbers serves to interpret the Christmas mystery. From the manger, in his Son Jesus, the Lord God blesses us abundantly and protects us. In the Christ Child, the icon of the divine love, the Lord God lets his face shine upon us and enables us to experience his favor and graciousness. In Mary’s Son, the Prince of Peace, the Lord looks kindly upon us and grants us peace and total salvation. Indeed, in Jesus Christ, the Word of God incarnate, is the fullness of the Father’s benediction to humankind. Moreover, in his Son Jesus, born of Mary, the fullness of blessing and praise – the Eucharist – is rendered to God, our Almighty Father.
In his past Message for the World Day of Peace (January 1, 2014), Pope Francis asserts that fraternity is the foundation and pathway to peace. In Jesus is true fraternity. The Pope remarks: “All who accept the life of Christ and live in him acknowledge God as Father and give themselves completely to him, loving him above all things. The reconciled person sees in God the Father of all, and, as a consequence, is spurred on to live a life of fraternity open to all … All are loved by God. All have been redeemed by the blood of Christ, who died on the Cross and rose for all. This is the reason why no one can remain indifferent before the lot of our brothers and sisters.” Pope Francis concludes his Message with the following intercession: “May Mary, the Mother of Jesus, help us to understand and live every day the fraternity that springs up from the heart of her Son, so as to bring peace to each person on this beloved earth.”
The following story gives us a glimpse into how fraternity in Christ can extinguish war (cf. Brad Steiger & Sherry Hansen Steiger, Christmas Miracles, Avon: Adams Media Corporation, 2001, p. 44-46).
Five months after the start of World War I, just after midnight on Christmas morning, the vast majority of German soldiers declared a Christmas truce in the hostilities between themselves and those of the Allied troops – the Russian, French, and British. Regimental bands began to play Christmas carols and the men raised their voices in joyous celebration of the Holy Night when the Prince of Peace was born.
The Allied soldiers were understandably suspicious about the shouts of “Merry Christmas” that they heard directed at them from the German trenches. Perhaps they had snipers lined up just waiting for a curious Tommy, Ivan, or Frenchy to peek his head above the trenches. But at the end of each hymn or cheerful carol they heard the German boys from Kaiser Bill’s army calling out something about a Christmas truce. The men in the Allied trenches checked with their officers, but none of them knew anything about a truce having been declared for the holidays.
At dawn’s first light on Christmas morn, the German troops rose up out of their trenches, set down their weapons, and began to walk across “no-man’s land”, singing carols and shouting out, “Merry Christmas” in French, Russian, and English, as well as their native German. From all appearances, from everything the Allied officers could see through their field glasses and from what the soldiers were able to witness from their frontline observation posts, all the Germans appeared to be without rifles or any kind of weaponry whatsoever.
Soon the Allied soldiers crawled out of their trenches and walked toward the Germans who were so openly and trustingly celebrating Christmas. The men shook hands, wished each other a blessed Christmas, and exchanged gifts of cigarettes and food. Later, they sang hymns and carols, and those of the same faith worshipped together. Some accounts of the Christmas truce even state that opposing sides played a good-natured, but rousing, game of soccer. The remarkable unofficial “time-out” that was declared by the combat soldiers without any thought of obtaining permission from their superiors lasted for two or three days.
Sadly, the Christmas truce of 1914 was probably one of the very last examples of old-fashioned chivalry in modern warfare. Within another few weeks, the first technological war would begin slaughtering human beings on a scale previously undreamt of in any military officer’s most fevered nightmare of destruction. The employment of poison gas against the men in the trenches, the serial bombing of cities and civilians beyond the frontlines, the onslaught of armored tanks crushing men and smashing walls, machine guns mowing down ranks of soldiers, aircraft swooping down from the skies and strafing troops on the ground – all of these horrors and more would make the notion of another Christmas truce during the war an impossible dream. But the 1914 Christmas miracle created by the common foot soldiers’ declaration of peace and goodwill toward their fellow comrades-in-arms will live forever in memory as a triumph of the indomitable human spirit over the fatal disease of war.
II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO
Do we allow the Lord God to bless us and keep us … to let his face shine upon us and be gracious to us … to look kindly upon us and give us peace? Do we look upon Mary as model of receptivity to grace and God’s abundant blessings? Do we look forward to the gracious blessings God has reserved for us in this New Year 2015? How can we promote fraternity as a foundation and pathway to peace? Do we call upon Mary, the Mother of the Prince of Peace, to help us in our peace-making?
III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO
Lord Jesus,
in you is the fraternity
that is the foundation and pathway to peace.
In this grace-filled New Year,
help us to become courageous heralds of your saving Gospel
and to be channels of your peace.
May your Mother Mary help us to promote the fraternity
that springs up from your heart
so as to bring peace to each person on this beloved earth.
With all peoples and creation and all the choirs of angels
we acclaim: Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to people of good will!
We give you thanks and 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.
“The Lord bless you and keep you!
The Lord let his face shine upon you and be gracious to you!
The Lord look kindly upon you and give you peace!” (Nm 6:24-26)
V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO
At the family reunion on New Year’s Day, use the Priestly Blessing as part of the prayer before or after meals, or at any other appropriate occasion during the day. With the help of Mary, Mother of God, perform acts of charity and service throughout the New Year 2015 that will bring God’s healing and benediction to the poor, the marginalized and the victims of natural and man-made calamities.
***
January 2, 2015: FRIDAY – SAINTS BASIL THE GREAT
AND GREGORY NAZIANZEN, bishops, doctors of the Church
“JESUS SAVIOR: He Leads Us by the Holy Spirit”
BIBLE READINGS
I Jn 2:22-28 // Jn 1:19-28
I. BIBLICO-LITURGICAL REFLECTIONS: A Pastoral Tool for the LECTIO
The great Christmas mystery of God the Father sending his Son to be our Savior is not always accepted. In Saint John’s community, there are those who reject Jesus as the Messiah. These “antichrists” reject both the Father and the Son, for whoever rejects the Son rejects also the Father. In today’s First Reading (I Jn 2:22-28), Saint John therefore exhorts us to be faithful to the message transmitted by the apostles from the beginning. This will lead us to live in union with the Father and the Son and, consequently, to experience eternal life. Faithfulness to truth is made possible by the Holy Spirit that Christ pours out upon us.
Today’s Gospel (Jn 1:19-28) speaks about John the Baptist. Filled and guided by the Holy Spirit, he proclaims the truth that Jesus is the Messiah. The Church, in time and space, struggles with “antichrists” and continues to uphold the truth that Jesus is the Savior. By the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, the truth prevails.
The fight against Arianism, a heresy that denies that Jesus is the Son of God, illustrates the Church’s endeavor to defend the truth and to live in the truth (cf. Giovanni Falbo, St. Monica: The Power of a Mother’s Love, Boston: Pauline Books and Media, 2007, p. 65).
These were days of great uncertainty, but also of an intense Christian experience; the faithful of Milan discovered what it meant to be a community and what their bishop meant to them. As a widow in Africa, Monica had already formed the habit of going to church each day, and she felt that she was part of the Christian community, considering it a family. With a figure such as Ambrose, she felt more intensely the joy of shared prayer and fellowship, and she even provided food for those who remained in the basilica for days at a time. To find herself in the company of Ambrose, to have the opportunity to speak with him, to profit from his profound teachings, and, together with other Christians, to fight against the excesses of imperial power, was for her a magnificent experience of the living Church.
The imperial forces made a number of efforts to dislodge the resisters, but Ambrose always responded with courage, ready to die rather than give in to intimidation. After a while, the soldiers themselves began to enter the basilica to join those who were praying and singing there. In the end, the [Arian] empress was forced to back down, and on Holy Thursday, April 2, 386, she ordered the troops to withdraw. Ambrose and the Church of Milan had won and Monica had also played her part. Their exultation was tremendous.
II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO
Are we willing to keep in our heart the saving message about Christ, the Son of God? Do we treasure the Christmas mystery and abide by the truth?
III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO
(Cf. Opening Prayer of the Mass, Friday, from January 2 to Epiphany)
Lord,
fill our hearts with your light.
May we always acknowledge Christ as our Savior
and be more faithful to his Gospel,
for he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, 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.
“Let what you heard from the beginning remain in you.” (I Jn 1:24)
V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO
Secure a copy of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and/or Youth Catechism, and continue to delve into the beauty and riches of the Catholic faith.
***
January 3, 2015: SATURDAY – CHRISTMAS WEEKDAY; THE MOST HOLY NAME OF JESUS
“JESUS SAVIOR: In Him We Become Children of God”
BIBLE READINGS
I Jn 2:29-3:6 // Jn 1:29-34
I. BIBLICO-LITURGICAL REFLECTIONS: A Pastoral Tool for the LECTIO
Today’s First Reading (I Jn 2:29-3:6) helps us to contemplate that Jesus is the Father’s Christmas gift to us. The divine gift of love is his only begotten Son, the Savior of the world. Through this gift we become the children of God. What love the Father bestowed on us in making us his own children! Holiness marks our life of belonging to God as his children. Sin is “lawlessness” – a disordered existence of alienation. It is a negation of God’s love and totally incompatible with our Christian vocation to live a life of intimacy with God. Through the Gospel (Jn 1:29-34) we behold Jesus, however, as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Through him, it is possible to turn away from sin and enter a life of renewed communion with our loving God.
The Christmas season is a beautiful occasion to thank the Lord God for Jesus and the gift of salvation. It is a call to embrace our vocation as children of God and to renounce “lawlessness” and sin. The hope of conversion is most welcome on Christmas and every day of the year. The following story is inspiring (cf. Dani D’Angelo, “The Gift of Quitting” in Amazing Grace for the Catholic Heart, ed. Jeff Cavins, et. al., West Chester: Ascension Press, 2004, p. 167-169).
On Christmas morning, my little boy asked me what I was giving the Baby Jesus for His birthday. I was crushed as I had nothing. I had not baked our customary birthday cake for Baby Jesus, nor had we stored up our good deeds to fill the manger with straw, like in years past. I felt bad but the look on my son’s face told me he felt worse. The next thing out of my mouth surprised even me.
“I know”, I said impulsively. “I am giving Baby Jesus my smoking habit. The whole thing: the cigarettes, the lighters, the cravings, the crabbiness, the ashtrays both dirty and clean, everything about smoking - is what I am giving to Baby Jesus.”
He was delighted and ran to tell his sister. They were filled with such joy while I sat stunned at what I had just done. I was obsessed with cigarettes yet I had told my son that I was giving up smoking as a gift to the Baby Jesus. Was I nuts? Could I do it? “No way”, I thought. But I knew that to break such a promise to my son would haunt us both for years to come. I needed a miracle. “Look Jesus”, I prayed. “I am sorry for jumping the gun, but I made this promise to my child. Now I need You to help me keep it.”
Suddenly I was filled with a deep sense of sureness. The kids and I had a ball going from room to room collecting everything to do with cigarettes. There were packs hidden everywhere – five in the freezer alone. We took the cigarettes, lighters, and ashtrays and either gave or throw them away. Then I went from room to room taking down curtains and cleaning them. I washed walls, ceilings, clothing and everything I could find, from Christmas morning until well into the New Year. (…) That was the year of my Christmas miracle and it changed my life completely … I gave up smoking as a gift to Baby Jesus, but in turn it was a gift He gave to me.
II. POINTS FOR THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART: A Pastoral Tool for the MEDITATIO
How do we respond to God the Father’s awesome love in making us his children in Jesus Christ? Do we try to abide in God and to avoid sin and “lawlessness” that drive us away from experiencing eternal life?
III. PRAYING WITH THE WORD: A Pastoral Tool for the ORATIO
(Cf. Opening Prayer of the Mass, Saturday, from January 2 to Epiphany)
All-powerful and ever-living God,
you give us a new vision of your glory
in the coming of Christ your Son.
He was born of the Virgin Mary
and came to share our life.
May we come to share his eternal life
in the glory of your kingdom,
where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God 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.
“See what love the Father has bestowed on us that we may be called the children of God.” (I Jn 3:1)
V. TOWARDS LIFE TRANSFORMATION: A Pastoral Tool for the ACTIO
By your peaceful stance and works of charity, promote the integrity and holiness of the “children of God”.
***
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