Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 31, 2011
First Reading: Jer 7:23-28
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 95:1-2, 6-7, 8-9 ;
Gospel: Lk 11:14-23 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
I am off on a short retreat this week. Please say lots of prayers for you and yours, and the world.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Wednesday Third Week of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 30, 2011
First Reading: Dt 4:1, 5-9
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 147:12-13, 15-16, 19-20 ;
Gospel: Mt 5:17-19 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
I am off on a short retreat this week. Please say lots of prayers for you and yours, and the world.
Today's readings: March 30, 2011
First Reading: Dt 4:1, 5-9
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 147:12-13, 15-16, 19-20 ;
Gospel: Mt 5:17-19 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
I am off on a short retreat this week. Please say lots of prayers for you and yours, and the world.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Tuesday Third Week of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 29, 2011
First Reading: Dn 3: 25, 34-43
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 25: 4, 5ab, 6-7bc, 3,4 ;
Gospel: Mt 18:21-35 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
I am off on a short retreat this week. Please say lots of prayers for you and yours, and the world.
Today's readings: March 29, 2011
First Reading: Dn 3: 25, 34-43
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 25: 4, 5ab, 6-7bc, 3,4 ;
Gospel: Mt 18:21-35 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
I am off on a short retreat this week. Please say lots of prayers for you and yours, and the world.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Monday Third Week of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 28, 2011
First Reading: 2Kings 5:1-15ab
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 42: 2, 3, 43: 3,4 ;
Gospel: Lk 4: 24-30 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
I am off on a short retreat this week. Please say lots of prayers for you and yours, and the world.
Today's readings: March 28, 2011
First Reading: 2Kings 5:1-15ab
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 42: 2, 3, 43: 3,4 ;
Gospel: Lk 4: 24-30 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
I am off on a short retreat this week. Please say lots of prayers for you and yours, and the world.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Third Sunday in Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 27, 2011
First Reading: Ex 17:3-7
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 95:1-2, 16-7, 8-9;
Second Reading: Rom 5: 1,2 5-8 ;
Gospel: Jn 5: 5-42 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Here's today's Gospel reading from John, chapter 4.
Jesus came to a town of Samaria called Sychar,
near the plot of land that Jacob had given to his son Joseph.
Jacob’s well was there.
Jesus, tired from his journey, sat down there at the well.
It was about noon.
A woman of Samaria came to draw water.
Jesus said to her,
“Give me a drink.”
His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.
The Samaritan woman said to him,
“How can you, a Jew, ask me, a Samaritan woman, for a drink?”
—For Jews use nothing in common with Samaritans.—
Jesus answered and said to her,
“If you knew the gift of God
and who is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink, ‘
you would have asked him
and he would have given you living water.”
The woman said to him,
“Sir, you do not even have a bucket and the cistern is deep;
where then can you get this living water?
Are you greater than our father Jacob,
who gave us this cistern and drank from it himself
with his children and his flocks?”
Jesus answered and said to her,
“Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again;
but whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst;
the water I shall give will become in him
a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
The woman said to him,
“Sir, give me this water, so that I may not be thirsty
or have to keep coming here to draw water.”
Jesus said to her,
“Go call your husband and come back.”
The woman answered and said to him,
“I do not have a husband.”
Jesus answered her,
“You are right in saying, ‘I do not have a husband.’
For you have had five husbands,
and the one you have now is not your husband.
What you have said is true.”
The woman said to him,
“Sir, I can see that you are a prophet.
Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain;
but you people say that the place to worship is in Jerusalem.”
Jesus said to her,
“Believe me, woman, the hour is coming
when you will worship the Father
neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem.
You people worship what you do not understand;
we worship what we understand,
because salvation is from the Jews.
But the hour is coming, and is now here,
when true worshipers will worship the Father in Spirit and truth;
and indeed the Father seeks such people to worship him.
God is Spirit, and those who worship him
must worship in Spirit and truth.”
The woman said to him,
“I know that the Messiah is coming, the one called the Christ;
when he comes, he will tell us everything.”
Jesus said to her,
“I am he, the one speaking with you.”
At that moment his disciples returned,
and were amazed that he was talking with a woman,
but still no one said, “What are you looking for?”
or “Why are you talking with her?”
The woman left her water jar
and went into the town and said to the people,
“Come see a man who told me everything I have done.
Could he possibly be the Christ?”
They went out of the town and came to him.
Meanwhile, the disciples urged him, “Rabbi, eat.”
But he said to them,
“I have food to eat of which you do not know.”
So the disciples said to one another,
“Could someone have brought him something to eat?”
Jesus said to them,
“My food is to do the will of the one who sent me
and to finish his work.
Do you not say, ‘In four months the harvest will be here’?
I tell you, look up and see the fields ripe for the harvest.
The reaper is already receiving payment
and gathering crops for eternal life,
so that the sower and reaper can rejoice together.
For here the saying is verified that ‘One sows and another reaps.’
I sent you to reap what you have not worked for;
others have done the work,
and you are sharing the fruits of their work.”
Many of the Samaritans of that town began to believe in him
because of the word of the woman who testified,
“He told me everything I have done.”
When the Samaritans came to him,
they invited him to stay with them;
and he stayed there two days.
Many more began to believe in him because of his word,
and they said to the woman,
“We no longer believe because of your word;
for we have heard for ourselves,
and we know that this is truly the savior of the world.”
Today's readings: March 27, 2011
First Reading: Ex 17:3-7
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 95:1-2, 16-7, 8-9;
Second Reading: Rom 5: 1,2 5-8 ;
Gospel: Jn 5: 5-42 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Here's today's Gospel reading from John, chapter 4.
Jesus came to a town of Samaria called Sychar,
near the plot of land that Jacob had given to his son Joseph.
Jacob’s well was there.
Jesus, tired from his journey, sat down there at the well.
It was about noon.
A woman of Samaria came to draw water.
Jesus said to her,
“Give me a drink.”
His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.
The Samaritan woman said to him,
“How can you, a Jew, ask me, a Samaritan woman, for a drink?”
—For Jews use nothing in common with Samaritans.—
Jesus answered and said to her,
“If you knew the gift of God
and who is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink, ‘
you would have asked him
and he would have given you living water.”
The woman said to him,
“Sir, you do not even have a bucket and the cistern is deep;
where then can you get this living water?
Are you greater than our father Jacob,
who gave us this cistern and drank from it himself
with his children and his flocks?”
Jesus answered and said to her,
“Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again;
but whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst;
the water I shall give will become in him
a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
The woman said to him,
“Sir, give me this water, so that I may not be thirsty
or have to keep coming here to draw water.”
Jesus said to her,
“Go call your husband and come back.”
The woman answered and said to him,
“I do not have a husband.”
Jesus answered her,
“You are right in saying, ‘I do not have a husband.’
For you have had five husbands,
and the one you have now is not your husband.
What you have said is true.”
The woman said to him,
“Sir, I can see that you are a prophet.
Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain;
but you people say that the place to worship is in Jerusalem.”
Jesus said to her,
“Believe me, woman, the hour is coming
when you will worship the Father
neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem.
You people worship what you do not understand;
we worship what we understand,
because salvation is from the Jews.
But the hour is coming, and is now here,
when true worshipers will worship the Father in Spirit and truth;
and indeed the Father seeks such people to worship him.
God is Spirit, and those who worship him
must worship in Spirit and truth.”
The woman said to him,
“I know that the Messiah is coming, the one called the Christ;
when he comes, he will tell us everything.”
Jesus said to her,
“I am he, the one speaking with you.”
At that moment his disciples returned,
and were amazed that he was talking with a woman,
but still no one said, “What are you looking for?”
or “Why are you talking with her?”
The woman left her water jar
and went into the town and said to the people,
“Come see a man who told me everything I have done.
Could he possibly be the Christ?”
They went out of the town and came to him.
Meanwhile, the disciples urged him, “Rabbi, eat.”
But he said to them,
“I have food to eat of which you do not know.”
So the disciples said to one another,
“Could someone have brought him something to eat?”
Jesus said to them,
“My food is to do the will of the one who sent me
and to finish his work.
Do you not say, ‘In four months the harvest will be here’?
I tell you, look up and see the fields ripe for the harvest.
The reaper is already receiving payment
and gathering crops for eternal life,
so that the sower and reaper can rejoice together.
For here the saying is verified that ‘One sows and another reaps.’
I sent you to reap what you have not worked for;
others have done the work,
and you are sharing the fruits of their work.”
Many of the Samaritans of that town began to believe in him
because of the word of the woman who testified,
“He told me everything I have done.”
When the Samaritans came to him,
they invited him to stay with them;
and he stayed there two days.
Many more began to believe in him because of his word,
and they said to the woman,
“We no longer believe because of your word;
for we have heard for ourselves,
and we know that this is truly the savior of the world.”
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Saturday Secons Week of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 26, 2011
First Reading: Mi 17:14-15, 18-20 ;
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12 ;
Gospel: Luke 15:1-3, 11-32 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Today's Gospel reading offers the familiar story of the Prodigal Son. Yes, I know. You have heard it before. Now, I ask you to hear it for the first time and allow the words to sink in as if they are novel and life changing. And go and read it again with heart and mind.
Upon hearing the reading, most people tend to hear the story from a point of you. Are you the Prodigal Son? The older brother who stayed on the father's land and helped him with the chores? Are you the Father? I think the truth is, at some point in our lives - we are each of the characters. It is an interesting exercise to hear it and to relate to each of the characters.
And again - the ongoing message of Lent is to grow in mercy and forgiveness. To forgive others, just as Jesus forgives you, and loves you with all His heart. He never gives up on you, even if you have given up on yourself. If you find yourself in the uncomfortable position of carrying many extra rocks in your knapsack as you walk on the road of life - learn to drop them and walk on without the baggage. The rocks are the people and the beautiful souls, made by God, that you refuse to show mercy to, and to forgive them.
Saint Francis of Assisi offered a lovely reflection on how to enable yourself to forgive when it is hard.
And I also wanted to pass on a lovely event in my backyard yesterday. On the Solemnity of the Annunciation, where the Virgin Mary is told by the archangel Gabrielle that she will bear a son, who is the Son of God. Last summer I made a little sculpture, shrine, fountain for a statue of the Virgin Mary. It is delightful to look at and the sound of running water is quite serene. Anyway - the apple tree that fans out around the shrine decided it was time to blossom on this special day. There were no blossoms on it Thursday, but on this wonderful day marking our celebration of the annunciation, it looked this.
Please say some prayers today for me if you get a chance, and also - say the Our Father from a spot so deep in your heart, that the angels tremble at the beauty and aroma of the Lord's prayer.
Today's readings: March 26, 2011
First Reading: Mi 17:14-15, 18-20 ;
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12 ;
Gospel: Luke 15:1-3, 11-32 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Today's Gospel reading offers the familiar story of the Prodigal Son. Yes, I know. You have heard it before. Now, I ask you to hear it for the first time and allow the words to sink in as if they are novel and life changing. And go and read it again with heart and mind.
Upon hearing the reading, most people tend to hear the story from a point of you. Are you the Prodigal Son? The older brother who stayed on the father's land and helped him with the chores? Are you the Father? I think the truth is, at some point in our lives - we are each of the characters. It is an interesting exercise to hear it and to relate to each of the characters.
And again - the ongoing message of Lent is to grow in mercy and forgiveness. To forgive others, just as Jesus forgives you, and loves you with all His heart. He never gives up on you, even if you have given up on yourself. If you find yourself in the uncomfortable position of carrying many extra rocks in your knapsack as you walk on the road of life - learn to drop them and walk on without the baggage. The rocks are the people and the beautiful souls, made by God, that you refuse to show mercy to, and to forgive them.
Saint Francis of Assisi offered a lovely reflection on how to enable yourself to forgive when it is hard.
Can true humility and compassion exist in our words and eyes unless we know we too are capable of any act?
And I also wanted to pass on a lovely event in my backyard yesterday. On the Solemnity of the Annunciation, where the Virgin Mary is told by the archangel Gabrielle that she will bear a son, who is the Son of God. Last summer I made a little sculpture, shrine, fountain for a statue of the Virgin Mary. It is delightful to look at and the sound of running water is quite serene. Anyway - the apple tree that fans out around the shrine decided it was time to blossom on this special day. There were no blossoms on it Thursday, but on this wonderful day marking our celebration of the annunciation, it looked this.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 25, 2011
First Reading: Is 7:10-14; 8:10
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 40:7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 11;
Second Reading: Heb 10:4-10 ;
Gospel: Luke 1:26-38 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
The Annunciation is one of the most important celebrations of the Catholic church. It is day set aside to reflect on the miracle of Gabrielle the Archangel visiting the Virgin Mary while she was in prayer, to tell her she would be blessed with a divine child. God himself, would show his love for humanity by humbling Himself to become human, while retaining his divine nature. In all of human history - obviously this is one big moment in time. Reflect on that for a while - and pray for the understanding that you might offer thanks in a way that is pleasing to God.
Last year I provided a link to some of my favorite works of art that tried to capture the moment. Lots of the great masters are included and I hope it assists in allowing your mind and your heart to contemplate the majesty - of this perfectly delightful, joyful and solemn moment in time. You can check out these image in the Annunciation Art Gallery.
Today's readings: March 25, 2011
First Reading: Is 7:10-14; 8:10
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 40:7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 11;
Second Reading: Heb 10:4-10 ;
Gospel: Luke 1:26-38 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
The Annunciation is one of the most important celebrations of the Catholic church. It is day set aside to reflect on the miracle of Gabrielle the Archangel visiting the Virgin Mary while she was in prayer, to tell her she would be blessed with a divine child. God himself, would show his love for humanity by humbling Himself to become human, while retaining his divine nature. In all of human history - obviously this is one big moment in time. Reflect on that for a while - and pray for the understanding that you might offer thanks in a way that is pleasing to God.
Last year I provided a link to some of my favorite works of art that tried to capture the moment. Lots of the great masters are included and I hope it assists in allowing your mind and your heart to contemplate the majesty - of this perfectly delightful, joyful and solemn moment in time. You can check out these image in the Annunciation Art Gallery.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Thursday Second Week of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 24, 2011
First Reading: Jer 17:5-10 ;
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 1:1-2, 3,4, 6 ;
Gospel: Luke 16:19-31 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Today's word begins with Jeremiah, encouraging us to place our faith and trust in God and not men. It only takes a little bit of living to realize this is good advice. God does not disappoint like men and women do. Oh we may not understand, but given the luxury of time, things that don't happen the way we hoped God would let them happen make all the sense in the world. This thought reminds me of a Darius Rucker song currently on the radio. Check it out. It does work out... give it time and you'll see for yourself that there is no good reason to be angry with God. He does not disappoint.
The Psalter & Gospel reading is also very powerful and speaks to mercy. Basically - God asking you to show mercy and love for those less fortunate than you. The Gospel reading does not speak to the countless blessings from acting this way - but highlights in frightening terms, what happens if you show no mercy. It ain't pretty. So - whether you need a carrot (all the blessing of showing mercy) or a stick (today's warning in the Gospel), make a point to be merciful and open yourself to sharing the many blessings you have received with others who could use a helping hand, a smile or a gentle word of encouragement. Or maybe a meal, time spent with someone who is lonely. I mean, God has given us a world with many opportunities to be kind and merciful. Take advantage of the opportunity.
Today's readings: March 24, 2011
First Reading: Jer 17:5-10 ;
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 1:1-2, 3,4, 6 ;
Gospel: Luke 16:19-31 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Today's word begins with Jeremiah, encouraging us to place our faith and trust in God and not men. It only takes a little bit of living to realize this is good advice. God does not disappoint like men and women do. Oh we may not understand, but given the luxury of time, things that don't happen the way we hoped God would let them happen make all the sense in the world. This thought reminds me of a Darius Rucker song currently on the radio. Check it out. It does work out... give it time and you'll see for yourself that there is no good reason to be angry with God. He does not disappoint.
The Psalter & Gospel reading is also very powerful and speaks to mercy. Basically - God asking you to show mercy and love for those less fortunate than you. The Gospel reading does not speak to the countless blessings from acting this way - but highlights in frightening terms, what happens if you show no mercy. It ain't pretty. So - whether you need a carrot (all the blessing of showing mercy) or a stick (today's warning in the Gospel), make a point to be merciful and open yourself to sharing the many blessings you have received with others who could use a helping hand, a smile or a gentle word of encouragement. Or maybe a meal, time spent with someone who is lonely. I mean, God has given us a world with many opportunities to be kind and merciful. Take advantage of the opportunity.
More tortuous than all else is the human heart,
beyond remedy; who can understand it?
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Wednesday Second Week of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 23, 2011
First Reading: Jer 18: 18-20
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 31:5-6, 14, 15-16 ;
Gospel: Mt 20:17-28 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Today's Gospel reading:
As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem,
he took the Twelve disciples aside by themselves,
and said to them on the way,
“Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem,
and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests
and the scribes,
and they will condemn him to death,
and hand him over to the Gentiles
to be mocked and scourged and crucified,
and he will be raised on the third day.”
Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee approached Jesus with her sons
and did him homage, wishing to ask him for something.
He said to her, “What do you wish?”
She answered him,
“Command that these two sons of mine sit,
one at your right and the other at your left, in your kingdom.”
Jesus said in reply,
“You do not know what you are asking.
Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?”
They said to him, “We can.”
He replied,
“My chalice you will indeed drink,
but to sit at my right and at my left,
this is not mine to give
but is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.”
When the ten heard this,
they became indignant at the two brothers.
But Jesus summoned them and said,
“You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them,
and the great ones make their authority over them felt.
But it shall not be so among you.
Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant;
whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave.
Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve
and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Today's readings: March 23, 2011
First Reading: Jer 18: 18-20
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 31:5-6, 14, 15-16 ;
Gospel: Mt 20:17-28 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Today's Gospel reading:
As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem,
he took the Twelve disciples aside by themselves,
and said to them on the way,
“Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem,
and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests
and the scribes,
and they will condemn him to death,
and hand him over to the Gentiles
to be mocked and scourged and crucified,
and he will be raised on the third day.”
Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee approached Jesus with her sons
and did him homage, wishing to ask him for something.
He said to her, “What do you wish?”
She answered him,
“Command that these two sons of mine sit,
one at your right and the other at your left, in your kingdom.”
Jesus said in reply,
“You do not know what you are asking.
Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?”
They said to him, “We can.”
He replied,
“My chalice you will indeed drink,
but to sit at my right and at my left,
this is not mine to give
but is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.”
When the ten heard this,
they became indignant at the two brothers.
But Jesus summoned them and said,
“You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them,
and the great ones make their authority over them felt.
But it shall not be so among you.
Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant;
whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave.
Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve
and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Tuesday, Second Week of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 22, 2011
First Reading: Is 1:10, 16-20
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 50:8-9, 16bc-17, 21 and 23 ;
Gospel: Mt 23:1-12 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Jesus tells His followers that they need to listen to the scribes and pharisees because they do know and understand the law. But they are not to follow their example, since they all too often do not set a very good example. After all, in another passage - Jesus tells us to be perfect, like your Father in heaven is perfect. Of course there are many very good priests, who are wonderful men and good shepherds of their flock. But they are always less than perfect.
I have found it somewhat strange over the years, how so many people are looking for a good "vibe" in the church they wish to attend. Which in all too many cases means they seem to be searching for a preacher that agrees with their world view, so they can feel good about themselves. If you take the preacher's homily out of the equation and just listen to the words of the readings, psalms and the Gospel - they are not easy words to hear sometimes. They are challenging, they very often leave you feeling that you need a lot of work to do, and that what you are doing is not right, or perhaps in nee of much improvement.
And I found myself wondering to myself - how a man's words, albeit the Son of God's words, who came to us in human form - are still hard to hear sometimes over 2,000 years later. And at the same time the words are true and very comforting. I always pray that my ears might listen well, and that my mind and my heart might soak in the message, like rain in a garden. A human life is just a blink of an eye, and at the same time it is a long growing season, going through many cycles and changes.
Don't be afraid to listen and change. Don't be afraid to grow. Truth is, Jesus is offering you good advice to assist you in making your joy complete.
Today's readings: March 22, 2011
First Reading: Is 1:10, 16-20
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 50:8-9, 16bc-17, 21 and 23 ;
Gospel: Mt 23:1-12 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Jesus tells His followers that they need to listen to the scribes and pharisees because they do know and understand the law. But they are not to follow their example, since they all too often do not set a very good example. After all, in another passage - Jesus tells us to be perfect, like your Father in heaven is perfect. Of course there are many very good priests, who are wonderful men and good shepherds of their flock. But they are always less than perfect.
I have found it somewhat strange over the years, how so many people are looking for a good "vibe" in the church they wish to attend. Which in all too many cases means they seem to be searching for a preacher that agrees with their world view, so they can feel good about themselves. If you take the preacher's homily out of the equation and just listen to the words of the readings, psalms and the Gospel - they are not easy words to hear sometimes. They are challenging, they very often leave you feeling that you need a lot of work to do, and that what you are doing is not right, or perhaps in nee of much improvement.
And I found myself wondering to myself - how a man's words, albeit the Son of God's words, who came to us in human form - are still hard to hear sometimes over 2,000 years later. And at the same time the words are true and very comforting. I always pray that my ears might listen well, and that my mind and my heart might soak in the message, like rain in a garden. A human life is just a blink of an eye, and at the same time it is a long growing season, going through many cycles and changes.
Don't be afraid to listen and change. Don't be afraid to grow. Truth is, Jesus is offering you good advice to assist you in making your joy complete.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Monday, Second Week of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 21, 2011
First Reading: Dn 9:4b-10
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 79:8, 9, 11 and 13 ;
Gospel: Lk 6:36-38 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
So when we stand before God, how will be judged? What criteria will be used in deciding whether or not we will join the sheep? or the goats? Today's readings spell it out very clearly. We will be judged by how much we show mercy to others.
If you find yourself angry at someone else, holding a grudge, or worse - wanting to seek vengence of any kind, say a prayer to be still, stop it, and get back on the right track. Whenever you carry such thoughts, feelings or anger - you only weigh down yourself. You only make it worse for yourself and those you love. The truth seems to be - you will be judged by how you love your enemies.
Today's readings: March 21, 2011
First Reading: Dn 9:4b-10
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 79:8, 9, 11 and 13 ;
Gospel: Lk 6:36-38 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
So when we stand before God, how will be judged? What criteria will be used in deciding whether or not we will join the sheep? or the goats? Today's readings spell it out very clearly. We will be judged by how much we show mercy to others.
If you find yourself angry at someone else, holding a grudge, or worse - wanting to seek vengence of any kind, say a prayer to be still, stop it, and get back on the right track. Whenever you carry such thoughts, feelings or anger - you only weigh down yourself. You only make it worse for yourself and those you love. The truth seems to be - you will be judged by how you love your enemies.
Second Sunday of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 20, 2011
First Reading: Gn 12:1-4a
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22;
Second Reading: 2 Tm 1:8b-10 ;
Gospel: Mt 17:1-9 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Hooray for Sunday !!! A day of celebration and thanks. Today I had some friends over for a wonderful meal and great companionship. It is good to remind yourself how lucky you are to have good friends. Do your best to make God a better friend by being a better person, serving him with joy.
Today we celebrate the transfiguration. It is my most fervant hope that God will help me in my own "changes", and become more pleasing in His sight, each and every day.
Today's readings: March 20, 2011
First Reading: Gn 12:1-4a
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22;
Second Reading: 2 Tm 1:8b-10 ;
Gospel: Mt 17:1-9 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Hooray for Sunday !!! A day of celebration and thanks. Today I had some friends over for a wonderful meal and great companionship. It is good to remind yourself how lucky you are to have good friends. Do your best to make God a better friend by being a better person, serving him with joy.
Today we celebrate the transfiguration. It is my most fervant hope that God will help me in my own "changes", and become more pleasing in His sight, each and every day.
Solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 19, 2011
First Reading: 2 Sm 7:4-5a, 12-14a, 16
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29
Second Reading: Rom 4:13, 16-18, 22 ;
Gospel: Mt 1:16, 18-21, 24a ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
The Solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of my favorite feast days. When I became a Catholic, an adult convert - I chose Joseph as my patron saint for many reasons. The main ones were 1) Joseph's humility. I knew I needed help in this area, as pride is one of the greatest stumbling blocks in creating a barrier toward fulling appreciating the love God has for us. Guilty as charged. 2) It was said that he was a righteous man, and this was a character trait that I hoped to develop on my own journey through life.
It is a good day to reflect on Saint Joseph - he has so much to offer.
Last year I compiled a small collection of interesting art with Saint Joseph. Here's a link in case you missed it, or if you wish to be inspired by one of the greatest saints that ever lived.
Today's readings: March 19, 2011
First Reading: 2 Sm 7:4-5a, 12-14a, 16
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 and 29
Second Reading: Rom 4:13, 16-18, 22 ;
Gospel: Mt 1:16, 18-21, 24a ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
The Solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of my favorite feast days. When I became a Catholic, an adult convert - I chose Joseph as my patron saint for many reasons. The main ones were 1) Joseph's humility. I knew I needed help in this area, as pride is one of the greatest stumbling blocks in creating a barrier toward fulling appreciating the love God has for us. Guilty as charged. 2) It was said that he was a righteous man, and this was a character trait that I hoped to develop on my own journey through life.
It is a good day to reflect on Saint Joseph - he has so much to offer.
Last year I compiled a small collection of interesting art with Saint Joseph. Here's a link in case you missed it, or if you wish to be inspired by one of the greatest saints that ever lived.
Friday First Week of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 18, 2011
First Reading: Ez 18: 21-28
Responsorial Psalm: 130: 1-8
Gospel: Matthew 5: 20-26 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
I regret that this year I have been especially busy and unable to find the time to write down as many reflections as I had hoped. Over the past week, lots of challenges arose related to unexpected visits to nursing homes. Today was filled with both good times and hard realities in the visits. Happy to play songs for twently people, and hard to watch a dear friend on the final lap of his life's journey. I am reminded to keep my eyes on the prize and ask for more help to be a good worker in the Lord's vineyard.
Today's readings: March 18, 2011
First Reading: Ez 18: 21-28
Responsorial Psalm: 130: 1-8
Gospel: Matthew 5: 20-26 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
I regret that this year I have been especially busy and unable to find the time to write down as many reflections as I had hoped. Over the past week, lots of challenges arose related to unexpected visits to nursing homes. Today was filled with both good times and hard realities in the visits. Happy to play songs for twently people, and hard to watch a dear friend on the final lap of his life's journey. I am reminded to keep my eyes on the prize and ask for more help to be a good worker in the Lord's vineyard.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Thursday First Week of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 17, 2011
First Reading: Est: 12, 14-16, 23-25
Responsorial Psalm: 138: 1-2ab, 2cde-3, 7c-8
Gospel: Matthew 7:7-12 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Happy St. Patrick's Day !!!!
Today's readings: March 17, 2011
First Reading: Est: 12, 14-16, 23-25
Responsorial Psalm: 138: 1-2ab, 2cde-3, 7c-8
Gospel: Matthew 7:7-12 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Wednesday First Week of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 16, 2011
First Reading: Jn 3:1-10
Responsorial Psalm: 51: 3-4, 12-13, 18-19
Gospel: Luke 11: 29-32 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
As I reflect on these words, I am reminded of the link between listening and humility. We all know the frustration of trying to share something important with a companion who refuses to listen. In kind, I hope you are able to see the shoes on the other foot, where I am a bad listener when I lose the humility to listen, instead of just waiting for the other person to stop talking to cut in with my own opinion on the subject.
St Thomas Aquinas shared he always tried to listen to a fellow traveler about who they were, and where they were coming from, and what circumstances they had gone through before he even tried to bring the joy of the Gospel into their lives. He was one of the most learned men in the church, and later become one of 33 doctors of the Catholic church - and he spent more time listening than speaking.
Try to catch yourself today... not listening well. Humble yourself and listen. And when you are in the right state of mind and heart, you will probably benefit from listening or reading the words of today's readings.
Today's readings: March 16, 2011
First Reading: Jn 3:1-10
Responsorial Psalm: 51: 3-4, 12-13, 18-19
Gospel: Luke 11: 29-32 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
As I reflect on these words, I am reminded of the link between listening and humility. We all know the frustration of trying to share something important with a companion who refuses to listen. In kind, I hope you are able to see the shoes on the other foot, where I am a bad listener when I lose the humility to listen, instead of just waiting for the other person to stop talking to cut in with my own opinion on the subject.
St Thomas Aquinas shared he always tried to listen to a fellow traveler about who they were, and where they were coming from, and what circumstances they had gone through before he even tried to bring the joy of the Gospel into their lives. He was one of the most learned men in the church, and later become one of 33 doctors of the Catholic church - and he spent more time listening than speaking.
Try to catch yourself today... not listening well. Humble yourself and listen. And when you are in the right state of mind and heart, you will probably benefit from listening or reading the words of today's readings.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Tuesday of the First Week of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 15, 2011
First Reading: Is 55:10-11
Responsorial Psalm: 34: 4-5, 6-7, 17-18, 18-19
Gospel: Matthew 6:7-15 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Today's Gospel reading from Matthew offers what has been called the greatest of all prayers. A perfect prayer, given to us by Jesus Christ to help us learn how to pray. The prayer is said daily by the millions I imagine, as has been for over 20 centuries. I thought I might include a reflection on the Lord's Prayer by Victor Hoagland, C.P.
based on the New Catholic Catechism 2759-2865
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Lord's Prayer is a basic Christian prayer. As a model of prayer, every Christian learns it by heart. It appears everywhere in the church's life: in its liturgy and sacraments, in public and private prayer. It 's a prayer Christians treasure.
Though we memorize it as a set formula, the Lord's Prayer shouldn't be repeated mechanically or without thought. Its purpose is to awaken and stimulate our faith. Through this prayer Jesus invites us to approach God as Father. Indeed, the Lord's Prayer has been called a summary of the gospel.
In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus invites us to draw near to God who is beyond human understanding, who dwells in mystery, who is all holy. We can call God "our Father".
Calling God "Father" does not mean that God is masculine. God is beyond the categories of gender, of masculine or feminine. None of our descriptions of God is adequate. God, who is "in heaven", whose name is holy, cannot be fully known by us.
By calling God "Father" we are more rightly describing ourselves and our relationship with God. Jesus teaches that we have a filial relationship with God; God sees us as if we were a daughter or a son. And we, on our part, can approach God in the familiar confident way a child approaches a loving parent. What is more, we approach God through God's only Son, Jesus Christ, who unites us to himself .
In the Lord's prayer we pray that God's kingdom come, that God's will, which is for our good, be done on earth as it is in heaven.
The Lord's Prayer sums up the teaching of Jesus. It is also a prayer that offers the grace of Jesus: his reverence for God, his childlike confidence in his Father, and his power to go bravely through life no matter what comes. When we pray his prayer, his spirit becomes our own.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As a final reflection on this perfect prayer - here's a video of the Lord's prayer, sung in ancient Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus. It is very powerful, don't be surprised if you get goosebumps. And don't say I did not warn you.
Today's readings: March 15, 2011
First Reading: Is 55:10-11
Responsorial Psalm: 34: 4-5, 6-7, 17-18, 18-19
Gospel: Matthew 6:7-15 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
The Lord's Prayer may be committed to memory quickly, but it is slowly learnt by heart.
~Frederick Denison Maurice Today's Gospel reading from Matthew offers what has been called the greatest of all prayers. A perfect prayer, given to us by Jesus Christ to help us learn how to pray. The prayer is said daily by the millions I imagine, as has been for over 20 centuries. I thought I might include a reflection on the Lord's Prayer by Victor Hoagland, C.P.
based on the New Catholic Catechism 2759-2865
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Lord's Prayer is a basic Christian prayer. As a model of prayer, every Christian learns it by heart. It appears everywhere in the church's life: in its liturgy and sacraments, in public and private prayer. It 's a prayer Christians treasure.
Though we memorize it as a set formula, the Lord's Prayer shouldn't be repeated mechanically or without thought. Its purpose is to awaken and stimulate our faith. Through this prayer Jesus invites us to approach God as Father. Indeed, the Lord's Prayer has been called a summary of the gospel.
When Moses approached God on Mount Sinai, he heard a voice saying, "Do not come near; put off your shoes from your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground." An infinite chasm separates us from the transcendent God.
Albrect Durer's Praying Hands Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
In the Lord's Prayer, Jesus invites us to draw near to God who is beyond human understanding, who dwells in mystery, who is all holy. We can call God "our Father".
Calling God "Father" does not mean that God is masculine. God is beyond the categories of gender, of masculine or feminine. None of our descriptions of God is adequate. God, who is "in heaven", whose name is holy, cannot be fully known by us.
By calling God "Father" we are more rightly describing ourselves and our relationship with God. Jesus teaches that we have a filial relationship with God; God sees us as if we were a daughter or a son. And we, on our part, can approach God in the familiar confident way a child approaches a loving parent. What is more, we approach God through God's only Son, Jesus Christ, who unites us to himself .
God's kingdom. Jesus often said that God's power would appear and renew all creation. God like a mighty king would rule over the earth according to a plan that unfolds from the beginning of the world. God's kingdom would be marked by peace and justice. Good would be rewarded and evil punished. The kingdom, according to Jesus, is not far off, but already present in our midst, though not yet revealed.Thy Kingdom come,
thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
In the Lord's prayer we pray that God's kingdom come, that God's will, which is for our good, be done on earth as it is in heaven.
We are God's children. What can be more childlike than this petition in which we pray for our daily bread, a word that describes all those physical, human and spiritual gifts we need to live. With the confidence of children we say: "Give us this day what we need."Give us this day our daily bread.
This petition of the Lord's Prayer is a demanding one. Not only do we ask God's forgiveness for our daily offenses, but we link God's forgiveness of us with our forgiveness of others. Forgiving others is not always easy to do. We need God's help to do it. But it must be done or we ourselves cannot receive God's mercy.Forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
Life is not easy. It is a daily battle. Trials like sickness and failure can crush our spirits. False values and easy promises can entice us and even destroy our souls. And so we ask God to keep us from failing when we are tested, to help us to know the right thing to do, to deliver us from the evil which awaits us in life.And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil. Amen.
The Lord's Prayer sums up the teaching of Jesus. It is also a prayer that offers the grace of Jesus: his reverence for God, his childlike confidence in his Father, and his power to go bravely through life no matter what comes. When we pray his prayer, his spirit becomes our own.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As a final reflection on this perfect prayer - here's a video of the Lord's prayer, sung in ancient Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus. It is very powerful, don't be surprised if you get goosebumps. And don't say I did not warn you.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Monday, First Week of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 14, 2011
First Reading: Lv: 1-2, 11-18
Responsorial Psalm: 19: 8, 9,10, 15
Gospel: Matthew 25: 31-46 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Here's today's Gospel reading. There's much to consider but the basic message seems to be that we are asked to love each other, just like Jesus loved us. Especially those in most need of a gentle smile, a helping hand, or an ear to listen to some problems. Well, just read it for yourself and if possible, take a few minutes to say a prayer for all those in need. Our friends in Japan could use a prayer, from you.
Matthew 25:31-46
Jesus said to his disciples:
“When the Son of Man comes in his glory,
and all the angels with him,
he will sit upon his glorious throne,
and all the nations will be assembled before him.
And he will separate them one from another,
as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.
He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
Then the king will say to those on his right,
‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father.
Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.
For I was hungry and you gave me food,
I was thirsty and you gave me drink,
a stranger and you welcomed me,
naked and you clothed me,
ill and you cared for me,
in prison and you visited me.’
Then the righteous will answer him and say,
‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you,
or thirsty and give you drink?
When did we see you a stranger and welcome you,
or naked and clothe you?
When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?’
And the king will say to them in reply,
‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did
for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’
Then he will say to those on his left,
‘Depart from me, you accursed,
into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his angels.
For I was hungry and you gave me no food,
I was thirsty and you gave me no drink,
a stranger and you gave me no welcome,
naked and you gave me no clothing,
ill and in prison, and you did not care for me.’
Then they will answer and say,
‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty
or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison,
and not minister to your needs?’
He will answer them, ‘Amen, I say to you,
what you did not do for one of these least ones,
you did not do for me.’
And these will go off to eternal punishment,
but the righteous to eternal life.”
Today's readings: March 14, 2011
First Reading: Lv: 1-2, 11-18
Responsorial Psalm: 19: 8, 9,10, 15
Gospel: Matthew 25: 31-46 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Here's today's Gospel reading. There's much to consider but the basic message seems to be that we are asked to love each other, just like Jesus loved us. Especially those in most need of a gentle smile, a helping hand, or an ear to listen to some problems. Well, just read it for yourself and if possible, take a few minutes to say a prayer for all those in need. Our friends in Japan could use a prayer, from you.
Matthew 25:31-46
Jesus said to his disciples:
“When the Son of Man comes in his glory,
and all the angels with him,
he will sit upon his glorious throne,
and all the nations will be assembled before him.
And he will separate them one from another,
as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.
He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
Then the king will say to those on his right,
‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father.
Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.
For I was hungry and you gave me food,
I was thirsty and you gave me drink,
a stranger and you welcomed me,
naked and you clothed me,
ill and you cared for me,
in prison and you visited me.’
Then the righteous will answer him and say,
‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you,
or thirsty and give you drink?
When did we see you a stranger and welcome you,
or naked and clothe you?
When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?’
And the king will say to them in reply,
‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did
for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’
Then he will say to those on his left,
‘Depart from me, you accursed,
into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his angels.
For I was hungry and you gave me no food,
I was thirsty and you gave me no drink,
a stranger and you gave me no welcome,
naked and you gave me no clothing,
ill and in prison, and you did not care for me.’
Then they will answer and say,
‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty
or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison,
and not minister to your needs?’
He will answer them, ‘Amen, I say to you,
what you did not do for one of these least ones,
you did not do for me.’
And these will go off to eternal punishment,
but the righteous to eternal life.”
First Sunday of Lent
Daily Readings for Lent
Today's readings: March 13, 2011
First Reading: Gn: 2:7-9; 3: 1-7
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 51: 3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 17 ;
Second Reading: Rom 5: 12-19 ;
Gospel: Matthew 4: 1-11 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Last full day of enjoying the company of an old friend. Please say a prayer for me.
Today's readings: March 13, 2011
First Reading: Gn: 2:7-9; 3: 1-7
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 51: 3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 17 ;
Second Reading: Rom 5: 12-19 ;
Gospel: Matthew 4: 1-11 ;
And here's an audio file and a video of a priest offering reflections.
Last full day of enjoying the company of an old friend. Please say a prayer for me.
Saturday after Ash Wednesday
Daily Readings: IS 58: 1-9a Responsorial Psalm: PS 86: 1-2, 3-4, 5-6
Gospel: Luke 5: 27-32 Audio / Video Reflections
I am busy entertaining a wonderful friend this weekend so I will not be adding any reflections. But rest assured, you are in my prayers.
Gospel: Luke 5: 27-32 Audio / Video Reflections
I am busy entertaining a wonderful friend this weekend so I will not be adding any reflections. But rest assured, you are in my prayers.
Friday After Ash Wednesday
Daily Readings: IS 58: 9b-14 Responsorial Psalm: PS 51 3,4, 5-6ab, 18-19
Gospel: Matthew 9: 14-15 Audio / Video Reflections
I am busy entertaining a wonderful friend this weekend so I will not be adding any reflections. But rest assured, you are in my prayers.
Gospel: Matthew 9: 14-15 Audio / Video Reflections
I am busy entertaining a wonderful friend this weekend so I will not be adding any reflections. But rest assured, you are in my prayers.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Thursday After Ash Wednesday
Daily Readings:
First Reading: Dt 30:15-20 Responsorial Psalm: 1: 1-2, 3,4, 6
Gospel: Luke 9: 22-25
AUDIO ~~ VIDEO Reflections
If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself
and take up his cross daily and follow me.
This is the message of the day, and indeed every day for all Christians. On the face of it, it sounds harsh to many. How many prayers begin with a request to take this heavy burden from me God? Unfortunately, when you bemoan and focus on your troubles, the weight of the burden will only get larger. Yes, it makes it worse. So, for a change trust Jesus and just do it. Pick up your cross and follow this divine example of gentleness and humble of heart. The first steps might indeed be difficult, but rest assured our Lord gives good and loving advice. The joy that awaits, when you really understand His words, that the yoke is easy and the burden is light, is nothing short of euphoric. You will find yourself thinking less of yourself, and more about others - helping them carry their burden. And as you move toward this goal, you will indeed find that that weight of your own cross is not a burden at all, but in fact a blessing because of the empathy and love that comes from helping others in need.
When you lose your life for the sake of Jesus, you will save it.
First Reading: Dt 30:15-20 Responsorial Psalm: 1: 1-2, 3,4, 6
Gospel: Luke 9: 22-25
AUDIO ~~ VIDEO Reflections
If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself
and take up his cross daily and follow me.
This is the message of the day, and indeed every day for all Christians. On the face of it, it sounds harsh to many. How many prayers begin with a request to take this heavy burden from me God? Unfortunately, when you bemoan and focus on your troubles, the weight of the burden will only get larger. Yes, it makes it worse. So, for a change trust Jesus and just do it. Pick up your cross and follow this divine example of gentleness and humble of heart. The first steps might indeed be difficult, but rest assured our Lord gives good and loving advice. The joy that awaits, when you really understand His words, that the yoke is easy and the burden is light, is nothing short of euphoric. You will find yourself thinking less of yourself, and more about others - helping them carry their burden. And as you move toward this goal, you will indeed find that that weight of your own cross is not a burden at all, but in fact a blessing because of the empathy and love that comes from helping others in need.
When you lose your life for the sake of Jesus, you will save it.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Ash Wednesday
Today's Readings for Ash Wednesday, March 9, 2011 (text) (audio) & reflections.
Basic Rules for Lent
Lent is a time for more prayer and almsgiving. Fasting and abstinence. Fasting obliges all Catholics, age 18 through 59, to refrain from eating between meals and to limit their eating to one full meal and two lighter meals a day. And abstinence, which obliges those 14 years of age and older not to eat meat. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday include both fasting and abstinence. And every Friday in Lent is a day without meat. (with Good Friday being both abstaining from meat and fasting).
Many people also give up things like chocolate, alcohol, watching a favorite TV show, or in other cases, Facebook. Some use the time as a way to make good on New Year's resolutions - like go to the gym 3 times a week. While these ideas are all good to increase one's discipline - the focus should really be, the things or habits or practices that keep you from loving God with all your heart, mind and soul. Spending more time to grow in your relationship with God is the sweet spot.
Put aside some time prayer and reflection. Read the Bible. Go to daily mass or confession when offered. Visit the sick in a hospital or a nursing home. It is somewhat ironic, because these acts will really bring you closer to God, and they are not a burden once you try and actually do these things. The irony? These little acts of kindness will make you feel better, and allow Jesus to accomplish what He wanted to for all of us. He wants to make our joy complete. Trust Him, He loves you.
Basic Rules for Lent
Lent is a time for more prayer and almsgiving. Fasting and abstinence. Fasting obliges all Catholics, age 18 through 59, to refrain from eating between meals and to limit their eating to one full meal and two lighter meals a day. And abstinence, which obliges those 14 years of age and older not to eat meat. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday include both fasting and abstinence. And every Friday in Lent is a day without meat. (with Good Friday being both abstaining from meat and fasting).
Many people also give up things like chocolate, alcohol, watching a favorite TV show, or in other cases, Facebook. Some use the time as a way to make good on New Year's resolutions - like go to the gym 3 times a week. While these ideas are all good to increase one's discipline - the focus should really be, the things or habits or practices that keep you from loving God with all your heart, mind and soul. Spending more time to grow in your relationship with God is the sweet spot.
Put aside some time prayer and reflection. Read the Bible. Go to daily mass or confession when offered. Visit the sick in a hospital or a nursing home. It is somewhat ironic, because these acts will really bring you closer to God, and they are not a burden once you try and actually do these things. The irony? These little acts of kindness will make you feel better, and allow Jesus to accomplish what He wanted to for all of us. He wants to make our joy complete. Trust Him, He loves you.
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