From the responsorial psalm: "This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham: to set us free from the bonds of our enemies, free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life. Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel; he has come to his people."

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (today's readings)

Then he asked them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?”

In the first reading, Saint Paul mentions the word faith—what he defines as "the realization of what is hoped for"—six times as he recounts the faith of Abraham, who followed God and received the fullness of God's promises. Using the word just once, Jesus questions the disciples after he calms the storm. And with a single word, the same one with which Jesus silences demons, he calms the storm by saying "Quiet!" While the disciples stood in awe of Jesus' mastery over the elements, we know what they didn't know about him yet: he is the risen Christ, the Son of God, who destroys death and restores life. The disciples ask him beforehand, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?" Jesus answers as he always does when we question his sovereignty over every moment in our lives: "Do you not yet have faith?"

God, throughout the day, help me remember three words Jesus spoke to the disciples: "Quiet! Be still!" In order to hear that voice, I have to remain in the boat with him in the midst of storms. Give me the grace to remain there and not cast myself into sea swells. I'm sure that sometime in the future for a yet-unknown reason, my prayer will be "Don't you care, God?" In that moment, Lord, don't let me lose sight of you seated in the stern. Remove all fear, and strengthen my faith. Blessed Virgin Mary, pray for us!

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

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A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew

Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift.”

In today’s Gospel according to Matthew, Jesus tells his disciples about the necessity of righteousness and reconciliation. What good is a gift or sacrifice of any kind if behind it lies resentment and division. First, Jesus says, reconcile with your brother and only then offer your gift. Jesus tells his disciples to forgive others not to suggest the foundation of a new social order but to offer us life itself, everlasting life. As the Lord says in the first reading from Ezekiel: “If the wicked man turns away from all the sins he committed, if he keeps all my statutes and does what is right and just, he shall surely live, he shall not die.”

God, help me understand that what your Son tells me in today’s Gospel, I hear whenever I pray the Our Father: forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Out of your mercy and through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, you forgive me my sins. How can I be merciful to others unless I recognize the depth of your mercy? “If you, O LORD, mark iniquities, LORD, who can stand? But with you is forgiveness, that you may be revered.” Through reconciliation with my brother and with you, I am able to come to you in the Eucharist with the gift of self, freed from sin and division.

Lord, let me remember today to trust in your mercy: to ask for it, to be merciful, and to completely trust in it.

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

Readings

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LEARN AND SHARE IN GROWING THE FAITH: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

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MONDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark

“Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast.
But the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast on that day.”

In today’s Gospel, Jesus responds to people who ask him why his disciples fast. The disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, they say, so why shouldn’t your disciples do the same? Jesus then goes on to tell them the analogy of a new piece of cloth sown on an old cloak and of new wine poured into new wineskins. Both attempts would fail. Like the new cloth and the new wine, Jesus is the Good News, the last Word of God, that simply can’t be grafted onto what came before him. As Saint Paul says of Jesus in the first reading: “And when he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him.”

Help me understand this, Lord. Your Son is the bridegroom and each soul who belongs to the Church, the bride of Christ. Through Jesus Christ, I participate in the ancient beauty of the Church that is always new through him, with him, and in him. As Saint Augustine says in his Confessions: “Late have I loved you, O Beauty ever ancient, ever new.” There is great hope in this, that the same Christ who died has risen to eternal life for you and for me; there is hope in the expectation of the return of the bridegroom in his Second Coming. Dying with him through baptism, we are brought into the Church and what the Catechism of the Catholic Church calls “the sacrament of regeneration” to become a son or daughter of light and “a new creature.” Lord, this is a lot to take in. Help me understand the love you have for your people and deepen my faith and trust in you.

Thank you, Lord, for your presence in the Eucharist! You are beyond my comprehension, yet let me rest in your presence as a bride rests in the love of her bridegroom. Be with me today, Lord, and help me come to know the beauty I hope one day to see face to face.

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

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Transcript below.

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A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mk 1:7-11)

It happened in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John. On coming up out of the water he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him. And a voice came from the heavens, "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased."

John declares that someone greater than him is coming. "I am not worthy to stoop and loosen the thongs of his sandals," he says. He emphasizes that while he baptizes with water, the one who is to come will baptize with the Holy Spirit. After the baptism of Jesus, as he comes up out of the water, the heavens open and the Holy Spirit descends upon Him in the form of a dove. As a voice from the heavens, God affirms the divine identity of his Son. In the baptism of Jesus, we see his humility and connection to humanity. The Son of God is like us in every way but sin. In the voice of his Father, we hear how we are to respond to Jesus: "Listen to him."

Father in heaven, you testified on behalf of your Son so that we might believe him. And the testimony you have given, John says, is this: "God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever possesses the Son has life; whoever does not possess the Son of God does not have life." Help me today to listen to your Son, to imitate him in my words and actions, in what I say and do and what I stop myself from saying and doing. Give me the grace to realize that I am your adopted son through the life, death, and resurrection of your Son so that you may say to me at the end of this day and at the threshold of eternal life: "You are my beloved son; with you I am well pleased."

From the first reading: "God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever possesses the Son has life; whoever does not possess the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you so that you may know that you have eternal life, you who believe in the name of the Son of God." Saint Joseph and Saint André Bessette, pray for us!

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

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A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew

Jesus said to his disciples: “Which one of you would hand his son a stone when he asked for a loaf of bread, or a snake when he asked for a fish? If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to those who ask him.”

Jesus relates to the disciples the need to pray sincerely. “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” In these short teachings, Jesus makes clear the need to ask, seek, and knock in prayer. In response, God’s perfect generosity is poured out in return. Although what we receive in prayer may not be exactly what we asked for, Jesus tells us that it will be so much more than what a father offers his son to sustain him.

God, help me take to heart two simple things your Son tells me about prayer: ask and receive. In order to receive the good things you give me, open my eyes to see that your will being done, not mine, is the good that I often fail to recognize. I want to remember today to ask you for help in knowing and doing your will, and I want to receive with a widened heart the good you give me that I might otherwise not see.

Lord, here I am before you. I ask for the grace today to know that you are with me. Let me recognize in the succession of moments that make up the day that as a loving Father you always give good gifts. Help open my hands to receive those gifts.

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

Readings

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And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. This episode is also available as a blog post: https://lectiodiv.wordpress.com/2022/10/06/thursday-of-the-twenty-seventh-week-in-ordinary-time/

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RESOURCES: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

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Today's antiphon, O Radix Jesse: O Root of Jesse’s stem, sign of God’s love for all his people: come to save us without delay! (Isaiah 1:1; 11:10)

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 1:5-25)

But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah, because your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John."

Luke recounts the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth. During Zechariah's service in the sanctuary of the temple, the angel Gabriel appears to him, causing Zechariah to be troubled and afraid to announce the birth of their son, John the Baptist. The angel describes John’s role as a great prophet who will prepare the way for the Lord and "turn the hearts of fathers toward children and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous." When Zechariah expresses doubt and fear, he is made mute until the fulfillment of the angel's words in the birth of John. Elizabeth then conceives and in seclusion delights in what the Lord has done for her in his divine intervention.

God, the O Antiphon for today ends with "come to save us without delay!" It brings to mind the familiar prayer said in the Liturgy of the Hours, "O God, come to my assistance; O Lord, make haste to help me." Keep my faith supple, Lord, able to discern your works even as I wrestle with doubt and fear. Not by my own power can I save myself, Lord, but by you alone, the giver of all good gifts. Gabriel tells Zechariah what the outcome of John's consecrated birth will bring: "And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord." Help me be attentive to what you bring to fruition today; let me be a witness to the joy and gladness that follow as you come to my assistance.

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

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SHARE IN GROWING THE FAITH: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

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LEARN AND SHARE IN GROWING THE FAITH: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

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LEARN AND SHARE IN GROWING THE FAITH: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

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To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb

Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. Catholic Bible in a Year - Scripture Reading Guide & Lectio Divina Journal: https://amzn.to/43HBjxr Learn lectio divina: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhwpFoRxRN_AvB7mD3ozBXh0ETW8e24-J As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

Catechism in a Year: Help support this podcast by getting your copy of Catechism of the Catholic Church, Ascension Edition. The edition of the Catechism of the Catholic Church read by Fr. Mike Schmitz in The Catechism in a Year podcast: ⁠https://amzn.to/3NuKt9h⁠ 

LEARN AND SHARE IN GROWING THE FAITH: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

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A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 2:36-40)

When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.

In these few words, Luke shares a kind of epilogue of the birth narrative of Jesus. It shows that Mary and Joseph were faithful, that they returned to live in their hometown of Nazareth, and that Jesus grew in body and spirit and wisdom under God's favor. But of the prophetess Anna Luke is careful to describe how she lived her life, as she "worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer," and how she responded at seeing the Holy Family: "And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem." She came forward at that very time. The present is all she had, and in that moment she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child Jesus, the coming of the Savior.

God, help me understand that in fasting, prayer, and worship, Anna made herself attentive to recognize the redemption of Jerusalem, the coming of the Messiah. Luke says that she never left the temple. Give me the grace, Lord, to be attentive to you, to watch for your coming. In recognizing you in the gift of the present moment, how can I do anything but give you thanks, as Anna did, at that very time. Half the battle, the spiritual battle, is remaining vigilant. Saint John says in the first reading that the world and its enticement are passing away. Help me today be steadfast in hearing and doing your will.

From the responsorial psalm: "Give to the LORD, you families of nations, give to the LORD glory and praise; give to the LORD the glory due his name! Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice!"

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

**Announcement: Please join me in praying a novena to Saint Anthony from June 5 to June 13. I'll return to daily Gospel reflections on June 14.**

LEARN AND SHARE IN GROWING THE FAITH: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* CONNECT WITH US:

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A READING FROM THE HOLY GOSPEL ACCORDING TO LUKE

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

After saying these words, Jesus turned to his disciples and told them in private that they are blessed to see what prophets and kings desired to see and hear but did not see and hear. What is the it that Jesus refers to? The Gospel acclamation explicitly says what it is: “Behold, our Lord shall come with power; he will enlighten the eyes of his servants.” Enlightenment for his servants; servants see what the wise and the learned hoped to see and hear. When I consider myself wise, how often have I shut my eyes and closed my ears to the wisdom of God right in front of me? To be childlike in faith, is it to see what is hidden in plain sight? Jesus, reveal the Father to me.

God, help me understand who it is you sent into the world to be seen and heard. You have given everything you have to your Son, and through you I come to know him, and through what he reveals I come to know you. Holy Spirit, help me know the Father and the Son so that I can seek you out and find your dwelling, where as the first reading from Isaiah says, “There shall be no harm or ruin on all my holy mountain; for the earth shall be filled with knowledge of the LORD, as water covers the sea.”

God, you hear my sighs; you see my restlessness and know that I want you near. For you, nothing is impossible. Help me through your grace recover childlike wonder—the blessedness of seeing you as you are—as I come into your presence; help me throughout the day remember to come into your presence.

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

BLOG: https://lectiodiv.wordpress.com FREE RESOURCE 🔹https://quarryapps.gumroad.com/l/jojqau Lectio Divina: A Journey into God’s Word. SOCIAL MEDIA 🔵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5maE4Sy9syoeNuHHKP7apk?si=73876ed118be4519 🔵 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/lectio-divina-daily-reflections/id1637258440 🔵 Support Lectio Divina Reflections on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user/membership?u=85589341 🔵 Please consider supporting Lectio Divina Reflections by sending us a financial gift. Thank you! https://buy.stripe.com/5kA8zx64ycdXgyQbII Your support helps us keep going. SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lectiodiv/videos

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark

They said, “Where did this man get all this? What kind of wisdom has been given him? What mighty deeds are wrought by his hands! Is he not the carpenter, the son of Mary, and the brother of James and Joseph and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.

Today’s Gospel shows Jesus in his hometown. The people see the miracles he performs, yet they doubt his divinity because they acknowledge only his ordinariness, that he is a carpenter and the son of Mary. Jesus, amazed at their lack of faith, says of them: “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and among his own kin and in his own house.” Mark tells us that Jesus was unable to perform any mighty deed there because of their lack of faith; that is, they took offense at Jesus and failed to get beyond Jesus’ ordinariness to see his divine identity. But unclean spirits like those from the Gospel from Monday do recognize it, saying: “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?” Having the benefit of the testimony of the risen Christ and the Eucharist (partaking of him body and blood, soul and divinity), I can ask the same question.

God, help me understand the nature of your Son. From the Profession of Faith, we pray: “For us men and for our salvation he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man.” Lord, give me the grace to know your Son and how he desires trust in him in order to perform mighty deeds in ordinary lives. “What mighty deeds are wrought by his hands!”

Mary, Mother of God, pray for me today that I recognize the divinity of your Son and trust in him to perform mighty deeds. You knew him as fully human and fully divine. Let me stop to think throughout the day of the ineffable love of Jesus, Son of the Most High God. “Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all my being, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”

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

Readings

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SHARE & CONNECT WITH US: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/lectio-divina-daily-reflections/id1637258440 Support Lectio Divina Reflections on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user/membership?u=85589341 Please consider supporting Lectio Divina Reflections by sending us a financial gift. Thank you! https://buy.stripe.com/5kA8zx64ycdXgyQbII Your support helps us keep going. SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lectiodiv/videos St. John the Apostle Novena is a nine-day devotion dedicated to St. John the Apostle, one of Jesus' closest disciples. It provides a way to focus on praying to St. John and seeking his intercession with God for specific needs or intentions. St. John is venerated for his unique closeness to Jesus. He was the youngest disciple, known for his love and purity. He witnessed many key events in Jesus' life, including the Last Supper, Crucifixion, and Resurrection. He's also credited with writing the Gospel of John and several letters in the New Testament. Remember, the most important aspect of the novena is your personal intention and commitment to prayer. Approach it with a sincere heart and open yourself to God's grace through the intercession of St. John the Apostle. St. John the Apostle Novena Let us begin, In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. O glorious Apostle, who, on account of thy virginal purity, wast so beloved by Jesus as to deserve to lay thy head upon His divine breast, and to be left, in His place, as son to His most holy Mother: I beg thee to inflame me with a most ardent love toward Jesus and Mary. Obtain for me from our Lord that I, too, with a heart purified from earthly afflictions, may be made worthy to be ever united to Jesus as a faithful disciple, and to Mary as a devoted son, both here on earth and eternally in heaven. (Mention your request here.) Our Father Hail Mary Glory Be St John the Apostle, pray for us. Amen.

“But Herod said, ‘John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?’ And he kept trying to see him.” In the Gospel reading according to Luke, Herod is perplexed by Jesus. Who is this Jesus he kept hearing about, and what does it mean that he kept trying to see him? This episode is also available as a blog post: https://lectiodiv.wordpress.com/2022/09/22/thursday-of-the-twenty-fifth-week-in-ordinary-time/

From the responsorial psalm: "All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands; break into song; sing praise. Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous deeds."

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 1:26-38)

Mary said, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word."

"Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you." With these words, the angel Gabriel addresses Mary, telling her not to be afraid and announcing that she will bear a son and name him Jesus, the Son of the Most High. Mary asks how this is possible since she has no relations with a man, and Gabriel explains to her that the "Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you." Saying "Nothing will be impossible for God," Gabriel then hears Mary's great fiat as she says, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." The Catechism of the Catholic Church says this about Mary's Immaculate Conception: "Through the centuries the Church has become ever more aware that Mary, 'full of grace' through God, was redeemed from the moment of her conception."

God, strengthen my faith. In the Annunciation, your overshadowing love through the Holy Spirit makes possible the redemption of all who call on the name of Jesus Christ, Son of God and son of Mary. Freely choosing to do your will, Mary becomes the vessel of your incarnation that brings to fulfillment all of your promises. If I remember only two lessons from the Annunciation, help me always be unafraid to say yes to your will; and in doing your will, help me live courageously in the realization that through your overshadowing love, nothing is impossible. Blessed Virgin Mary, pray for us!

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

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark

Jesus said to the crowds: “This is how it is with the Kingdom of God; it is as if a man were to scatter seed on the land and would sleep and rise night and day and the seed would sprout and grow, he knows not how. Of its own accord the land yields fruit, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. And when the grain is ripe, he wields the sickle at once, for the harvest has come.”

The Gospel from today follows directly after where yesterday’s left off. Jesus goes on to tell two other parables about the Kingdom of God: one relates to the growth of seed planted in the ground; the other, to the smallest of seeds that becomes the largest of plants, the mustard seed. In both parables, the growth of the Kingdom of God benefits the one who spreads the seed. The growth of the seed, the kingdom, is a mystery to the sower. In either parable, the sower plants but God nurtures the growth to maturity.

God, help me understand as I am able to understand the mystery described in these parables. Saint Paul in the first reading encourages us to seek the Kingdom of God by doing his will: “You need endurance to do the will of God and receive what he has promised.” The result of that endurance, he says, is that “We are not among those who draw back and perish, but among those who have faith and will possess life.” Lord, let the little I do today in scattering seed be an act of delight and complete trust in you to bring into this reality the mysteries of the Kingdom. “Commit to the LORD your way,” the Responsorial Psalm says, “trust in him, and he will act.”

God, your Kingdom is to come and is here at this moment. I know you delight in me as I strive to grow closer to you. Let me know the joy today of active participation in your kingdom as I see it sprouting and growing of its own accord.

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

Readings

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LEARN AND SHARE IN GROWING THE FAITH: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

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From the responsorial psalm: "Blessed is he whose fault is taken away, whose sin is covered. Blessed the man to whom the LORD imputes not guilt, in whose spirit there is no guile. Blessed are those whose sins are forgiven."

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 7:31-37, today's readings)

He took him off by himself away from the crowd. He put his finger into the man’s ears and, spitting, touched his tongue; then he looked up to heaven and groaned, and said to him, “Ephphatha!” (that is, “Be opened!”) And immediately the man’s ears were opened, his speech impediment was removed, and he spoke plainly.

The ears of the deaf man are opened because of the miracle Jesus performs but also because people bring the man to Jesus. Not in isolation, the man experiences the love of others who believe Jesus can restore his hearing and speech. In the first reading, the serpent finds and isolates Eve, effectively dividing her from the union she has with Adam and God and all of creation. In restoring the deaf man, Jesus doesn't merely undo what the evil one did in the Garden of Eden; he restores the man to wholeness in a foretaste of the new creation, the beatific vision in the life of the world to come. Mark tells us that the man's speech impediment was removed and that he spoke plainly. The plain speech that drives the evil one away is one word: Jesus.

God, let me see the peace that results from the work Jesus accomplished while on earth and the hope of eternal life in his passion, death, and resurrection. At creation, Lord, you said you found all that you had made very good. Jesus took the deaf man aside, away from others who loved and cared for him, in order to draw him into more intimate union with you. In opening his ears and lips, Jesus restores him to your plan for creation so that all may say of your glory, "He has done all things well." Open our hearts, O Lord, to listen to the words of your Son. Saints Cyril and Methodius, pray for us!

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

SHARE & CONNECT WITH US: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/lectio-divina-daily-reflections/id1637258440 Support Lectio Divina Reflections on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user/membership?u=85589341 Please consider supporting Lectio Divina Reflections by sending us a financial gift. Thank you! https://buy.stripe.com/5kA8zx64ycdXgyQbII Your support helps us keep going. SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@lectiodiv/videos St. John the Apostle Novena is a nine-day devotion dedicated to St. John the Apostle, one of Jesus' closest disciples. It provides a way to focus on praying to St. John and seeking his intercession with God for specific needs or intentions. St. John is venerated for his unique closeness to Jesus. He was the youngest disciple, known for his love and purity. He witnessed many key events in Jesus' life, including the Last Supper, Crucifixion, and Resurrection. He's also credited with writing the Gospel of John and several letters in the New Testament. Remember, the most important aspect of the novena is your personal intention and commitment to prayer. Approach it with a sincere heart and open yourself to God's grace through the intercession of St. John the Apostle. St. John the Apostle Novena Let us begin, In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. O glorious Apostle, who, on account of thy virginal purity, wast so beloved by Jesus as to deserve to lay thy head upon His divine breast, and to be left, in His place, as son to His most holy Mother: I beg thee to inflame me with a most ardent love toward Jesus and Mary. Obtain for me from our Lord that I, too, with a heart purified from earthly afflictions, may be made worthy to be ever united to Jesus as a faithful disciple, and to Mary as a devoted son, both here on earth and eternally in heaven. (Mention your request here.) Our Father Hail Mary Glory Be St John the Apostle, pray for us. Amen.

SHARE IN GROWING THE FAITH: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

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Catechism in a Year: Help support this podcast by getting your copy of Catechism of the Catholic Church, Ascension Edition. The edition of the Catechism of the Catholic Church read by Fr. Mike Schmitz in The Catechism in a Year podcast: ⁠https://amzn.to/3NuKt9h⁠ 

LEARN AND SHARE IN GROWING THE FAITH: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

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LEARN AND SHARE IN GROWING THE FAITH: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

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Free guide! https://quarryapps.gumroad.com/l/jojqau Lectio Divina: A Journey into God’s Word. Support Lectio Divina Reflections on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user/membership?u=85589341 CONNECT WITH US: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5maE4Sy9syoeNuHHKP7apk?si=73876ed118be4519 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/lectio-divina-daily-reflections/id1637258440 Please consider supporting Lectio Divina Reflections by sending us a financial gift. Thank you! https://buy.stripe.com/5kA8zx64ycdXgyQbII Your support helps us keep going.

From the responsorial psalm: "The LORD secures justice for the oppressed, gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets captives free. Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob."

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 17:20-25)

Then he said to his disciples, “The days will come when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, but you will not see it. There will be those who will say to you, ‘Look, there he is,’ or ‘Look, here he is.’ Do not go off, do not run in pursuit."

Jesus is asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God will come. He tells them that the kingdom of God cannot be announced and is not here or there but among them. Perhaps privately, Jesus then tells the disciples that they will long to see the days of the Son of Man as they had been even as they look for the coming of the kingdom in the fullness of time. Speaking to the Pharisees, Jesus responds in kind to their question about the coming of the kingdom. To the disciples and warning them not to pursue what is false, he reveals that as the Son of Man, he brings down from heaven the kingdom to gather us as one to the eternal kingdom in heaven.

God, help me understand today's readings. You remain outside of space and time. The words of Jesus your Son express the interconnectedness of time—what has been, what is, and what will be—so that no one hesitates to wait for you to appear. Although invisible and not be found in my surroundings, give me the grace to realize and respond to your gift of the kingdom that is already here in the present moment. As I move throughout the day, let me ask you to remind me of every opportunity you give me to remain in your kingdom even as I long to see it come. "I am the vine, you are the branches, says the Lord: whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit."

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

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From the responsorial psalm: “When I behold your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars which you set in place—What is man that you should be mindful of him, or the son of man that you should care for him? O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!”

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mk 7:1-13, today’s readings)

He responded, “Well did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites, as it is written: This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines human precepts. You disregard God’s commandment but cling to human tradition.”

The Pharisees observe that the disciples of Jesus eat their meals with unwashed hands and fail to purify themselves after coming from the marketplace, according to Jewish tradition. In questioning Jesus about this, they point out that the disciples are not followers of the tradition of the elders. Jesus’ response cuts to the heart of the issue as he quotes Isaiah to reveal their oppressive teaching and deep-rooted hypocrisy. He criticizes the Pharisees for allowing traditions to undermine God’s inherently good commandments through their strict adherence to rituals. Intentions matter; in prayer and ritual observance, where do we find God except in hearing and doing his will, inclining our hearts to his decrees?

God, your law is rooted in love, mercy, and justice. Through the person of Jesus, you give us every one of these gifts—not a set of prohibitions or obligations but a call toward the good to build relationship with you and others in a way that corresponds to your will. When Jesus says the Pharisees nullify your word and that they “do many such things,” give me the grace to recognize the ways I turn away from you and your word. When I am tempted to think that those who set aside your commandments and instead upheld tradition lived and died a long time ago, guide me to the realization that I myself have done the same and will do the same again. From Genesis, I read: “God looked at everything he had made, and he found it very good.” Guide me, Lord, to see as you see. Blessed Virgin Mary, pray for us!

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

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LEARN AND SHARE IN GROWING THE FAITH: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

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The Lord said, “Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night? Will he be slow to answer them? I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily. But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” This episode is also available as a blog post: https://lectiodiv.wordpress.com/2022/10/16/twenty-ninth-sunday-in-ordinary-time/

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Jesus went up to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God. When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named Apostles. This episode is also available as a blog post: https://lectiodiv.wordpress.com/2022/10/28/feast-of-saints-simon-and-jude-apostles/

THURSDAY OF THE FIRST WEEK OF ADVENT

Jesus said to his disciples: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven.”

The words of Jesus from today’s Gospel strike the ear with his repetition of “Lord” and the warning of utter ruin that follows from building on a foundation of anything other than doing the will of the Father. When I hear Jesus saying, “Lord, Lord,” I feel accused. Lord, shouldn’t I call out to you at all times? The Gospel acclamation says, “Seek the LORD while he may be found; call him while he is near.” Jesus issues a kind of challenge in his words by directing us to the will of the Father.

God, help me understand the will of the Father, as I hear Jesus inviting me to remain authentic in my relationship with him: “Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock.” Lord, you are, as Isaiah says, the eternal Rock. Thank you for the life, death, and resurrection of your Son, for his words that encourage me to lay down my own will and know and do yours instead.

Father in heaven, when I am restless and distracted today, quiet my soul. Teach me your will, and let me not be discouraged by failure to accomplish it but resolved all the more to trust in your mercy and grace. Let me have childlike hope in you, in your guidance. When I call out to you, let it be from a longing that only your love for me can fulfill. Prepare me through your gift of this day to enter your kingdom.

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

Readings

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Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.” Nathanael  answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” This episode is also available as a blog post: https://lectiodiv.wordpress.com/2022/09/29/feast-of-saints-michael-gabriel-and-raphael-archangels/

A reading from the holy Gospel according to John

There was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the wedding. When the wine ran short, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” And Jesus said to her, “Woman, how does your concern affect me? My hour has not yet come.” His mother said to the servers, “Do whatever he tells you.”

The familiar story of the Wedding at Cana presents what would be a crucial moment during the feast: the wine has run out. Without wine, how can the feast continue? Among the few words the Evangelists share, Mary says: “They have no wine.” She sees and understands that the feasting would end without it. Jesus says in so many words to Mary, “What has your concern got to do with me? It’s not time yet for me to go out into the world.” It is telling to see that Mary does not reply to Jesus’ question; she says instead to the servers, leaving the Son of God to act on his own will, “Do whatever he tells you.” Two elements of Mary’s nature begin at this moment to shine: her selfless intercession (“They have no wine.”) and her perfect trust in God’s will: “Do whatever he tells you.” Wine, which becomes the blood of Christ at the Last Supper, here initiates the feast in the coming of Emmanuel. The passing earthly banquet foreshadows the joy of God made man who comes to draw all into the great feast of endless length of days.

God, help me understand the beauty in this Gospel passage and allow its beauty to draw me toward Mary as a model of faith and to adopt her selflessness and abandonment to your will. Why does Jesus question Mary’s concern? The Mother of God becomes the Queen of Heaven, the ever-present intercessor of every spiritual need, who entrusts the prayers of the human family directly to her Son. Is Jesus asking her that question, not out of a kind of irony, but only to allow her to give witness to her faith in her response? “Do whatever he tells you.”

In your presence, Lord, my eyes see only so much. There is infinitely more! Give me the grace today to see your love manifested in the day’s unfolding. Be with me as I come to knowledge of your will through the material gifts that surround me. You supply me with every spiritual need; strengthen me to do whatever you tell me.

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

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“Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.” This episode is also available as a blog post: https://lectiodiv.wordpress.com/2022/10/07/memorial-of-our-lady-of-the-rosary/

Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Advent

But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God.”

Today’s Gospel reading from Luke follows yesterday’s reading and tells very similar stories. While Zechariah questioned Gabriel and is made speechless until John’s birth, Mary says, “May it be done to me according to your word.” It is not as if Zechariah was punished for what Gabriel called his lack of belief in the message sent from God; it seems instead that God quieted Zechariah for a time and immersed him in the school of interior life to prepare for the birth of John. Mary simply gave her consent, her fiat, saying, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.” How often in my life, even now during Advent, do I stay behind bars that keep me inside?

When you come to free me, Lord, I cling to bars that confine me as a self-proclaimed master of my own destiny. How do I learn to let go of my own personal glory? Let me learn to take to heart the words of the psalmist: “Let the Lord enter; he is the king of glory.” Help me understand, Lord, that what seems up is down and what is down, up. As Jesus says, “For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” Mary said yes; let me learn to do the same.

For the times when I don’t realize I’m saying no to you, Lord, or for the times when I’m afraid to say yes, stay with me. For the times when it’s hard to let you enter, grant me the grace to find a place for you. Power of the Most High, overshadow me today.

From the O Antiphon for today: O Key of David, opening the gates of God’s eternal Kingdom: come and free the prisoners of darkness!

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

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When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him and, turning, said to the crowd following him, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” When the messengers returned to the house, they found the slave in good health. This episode is also available as a blog post: https://lectiodiv.wordpress.com/2022/09/12/monday-of-the-twenty-fourth-week-in-ordinary-time/

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SUNDAY OF THE THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT

Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.”

In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus responds to the disciples of John the Baptist who ask him if he is the one to come, the Messiah. In Jesus’ response, there is what is heralded in each of the other readings and the Responsorial Psalm. Of the coming of God, Isaiah says, “Then will the eyes of the blind be opened, the ears of the deaf be cleared; then will the lame leap like a stag, then the tongue of the mute will sing.” Similarly, the psalmists says, “The LORD gives sight to the blind; the LORD raises up those who were bowed down.” And in the second reading from James, he encourages his brothers and sisters to wait patiently as a farmer waits for “the precious fruit of the earth” because “the coming of the Lord is at hand.” What does that mean to me that God’s kingdom is amid the ordinariness of each day and certainly amid the extraordinary joyful expectation of this day, Gaudete Sunday?

God, help me take this in and understand it. The kingdom of heaven is coming, and the kingdom of heaven is here now. As Jesus tells the crowds: “among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” In Jesus’ coming, I have what no one before him had. Although no one was greater than the forerunner John, the least in the kingdom, in Jesus’ coming, is greater than John. Even today, Lord, you feed the least in your kingdom with the Eucharist and the sacraments, with us until you come again in glory. Be here with me today during the Mass, in receiving the Eucharist, and present in me through the Holy Spirit.

God of all, you heal us in mind, body, and spirit through the saving power of your Son. Help me see and hear you today so that I can do your will to give you glory.

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

Readings

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A reading from the holy Gospel according to John

John testified further, saying, “I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from the sky and remain upon him. I did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain, he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God.”

In Jesus, John recognizes the Son of God. John says that the “one who sent me to baptize with water” told him that he would recognize the Messiah by the Spirit coming down and remaining in him. John recognizes the divine presence of Christ by seeing and testifying that Jesus is the Son of God, as Simeon did when Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the temple. “For my eyes have seen your salvation,” Simeon said. In my own recent experiences, words, and actions, how have I seen and testified that Jesus is the Son of God? What will I see today with my eyes that will confirm in me God’s presence through his Son?

God, help me understand that, like John, I am the one sent by you. John’s confidence in the Word of God, your Son, gave him a firm grasp of the reality of your presence; it spoke to him of his role in preparing the way for Jesus. John, freed of worldly distractions, heard your voice and followed your will. Thank you, Lord, for his example. What can I disconnect from today that will help me be more attentive to your voice so that I can grasp that you are truly present?

Lord, you seek me out and send me forth. Let me live today so that at its end, I can rest in your presence in the same way that your Spirit came down and remained with your Son. Throughout the day, grant me the grace to take courage as I listen for your voice and seek your guidance.

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

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Please consider supporting Lectio Divina Reflections by sending us a financial gift. Thank you! https://buy.stripe.com/5kA8zx64ycdXgyQbII Your support helps us keep going. Free guide! https://quarryapps.gumroad.com/l/jojqau Lectio Divina: A Journey into God’s Word. Support Lectio Divina Reflections on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user/membership?u=85589341 CONNECT WITH US: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5maE4Sy9syoeNuHHKP7apk?si=73876ed118be4519 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/lectio-divina-daily-reflections/id1637258440

Free guide! https://quarryapps.gumroad.com/l/jojqau Lectio Divina: A Journey into God’s Word. Support Lectio Divina Reflections on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user/membership?u=85589341 CONNECT WITH US: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5maE4Sy9syoeNuHHKP7apk?si=73876ed118be4519 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/lectio-divina-daily-reflections/id1637258440 Please consider supporting Lectio Divina Reflections by sending us a financial gift. Thank you! https://buy.stripe.com/5kA8zx64ycdXgyQbII Your support helps us keep going.

Thanks for your support!

If you would like to support Lectio Divina Reflections, send us a financial gift. Your support helps us keep going. Thank you! ⁠https://buy.stripe.com/5kA8zx64ycdXgyQbII⁠

Catechism in a Year: Help support this podcast by getting your copy of Catechism of the Catholic Church, Ascension Edition. The edition of the Catechism of the Catholic Church read by Fr. Mike Schmitz in The Catechism in a Year podcast: ⁠⁠https://amzn.to/3NuKt9h⁠⁠ 

LEARN AND SHARE IN GROWING THE FAITH: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

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LEARN AND SHARE IN GROWING THE FAITH: Excerpts are from the New American Bible Revised Edition: https://amzn.to/3K0SuAP. To learn how to do lectio divina, read Tim Gray's excellent Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina: https://amzn.to/430udUb (Amazon affiliate links)* As a member of the Amazon Associate Program, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases on the links above. It costs you nothing but helps me with content creation.

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From the responsorial psalm: "Good and upright is the LORD; thus he shows sinners the way. He guides the humble to justice, and teaches the humble his way. To you, O Lord, I lift my soul."

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 21:25-28, 34-36)

“Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”

On this first Sunday of Advent, we hear Jesus telling the disciples about the final judgement, the coming in a cloud of the Son of Man with power and great glory. At his coming, signs on earth and in the cosmos will put nations in dismay and frighten people to death. Stand erect and raise your heads, Jesus tells the disciples, because our redemption is at hand. Before that day comes, Jesus says, remain vigilant, keep from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life (another kind of drunkenness that leads to the other). Jesus calls that day an assault and not to be caught by surprise by it like a trap. Just as God was present to the wandering Israelites in a pillar of cloud, Jesus will come again in power and great glory to judge the living and the dead. Jesus asks us to pray that we are prepared for his return.

God, at the beginning of this Advent set me on a path of vigilance and joyful expectation at the coming of Jesus. The Son of Mary is the Son of God, who came into the world as an infant and will come again in a cloud of power and glory. Give me the grace throughout Advent to remain hopeful in the fulfillment of your kingdom—not afraid, not anxious, an not absorbed in distractions. Strengthened by the real presence of Jesus to face the tribulations of daily life, keep me on a path to stand erect and raise my head as I meet my redeemer face to face. Show us, Lord, your love; and grant us your salvation.

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

TUESDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT

Jesus said to his disciples, “In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost.”

In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus tells his disciples the parable of the lost sheep. He asks their opinion of whether a shepherd would leave his ninety-nine sheep to go in search of the one gone astray. And if he finds it, Jesus says, “he rejoices more over it than over the ninety-nine that did not stray.” He says this to teach the disciples about the extraordinary love of the Father for his beloved children. Rather than pity the ones who are lost, I have to think about the times that I have gone astray and waited for God to come in power to save me. As the Gospel acclamation says: “The day of the Lord is near; Behold, he comes to save us.” As we celebrate the feast of Saint Nicholas today, I’m reminded of his generosity through his life of service to the needy, the sick, and the suffering. Is Santa real, I have to ask myself? As long as we celebrate the life of Saint Nicholas among the communion of saints, yes, Santa is real.

Help me understand, Lord, the words of the Our Father in daily life: “Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.” Life passes quickly, and the strength and resolve of youth is transitory. Isaiah beautiful words in the first reading calls this to mind: “All flesh is grass, and all their glory like the flower of the field. The grass withers, the flower wilts, when the breath of the LORD blows upon it. So then, the people is the grass. Though the grass withers and the flower wilts, the word of our God stands forever.” Keep me in your care, God, and close to your word—to the word made flesh.

Jesus, Good Shepherd, help me stay close to you today. I know I will go astray today. As Saint Paul says, “For I do not do the good I want, but I do the evil I do not want.” Through your grace, keep me from the temptation that leads to sin and let me instead see and do your will. And when I fail, come find me and bring me back to you.

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

Readings

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The Novena to Saint Anthony of Padua is a nine-day prayer that is traditionally prayed in honor of Saint Anthony. The novena is a time for asking for Saint Anthony's intercession in our needs and for thanking him for his many blessings.

The novena can be prayed at any time of year, but it is often prayed in the days leading up to the feast day of Saint Anthony, which is June 13.

To pray the novena, simply follow these steps:

Make an intention. Before you begin the novena, take some time to think about what you would like to ask Saint Anthony for. It could be anything, such as a job, a healing, or a favor for a friend or family member.

Pray the prayer. The novena prayer is a traditional prayer that is used to ask for Saint Anthony's intercession. You can find the prayer online or in a Catholic prayer book.

Meditate on the life of Saint Anthony. As you pray the novena, take some time to reflect on the life of Saint Anthony. He was a holy man who was known for his preaching, his miracles, and his love for the poor.

Offer your prayers to God. When you are finished praying the novena, offer your prayers to God. Ask him to grant your petition through the intercession of Saint Anthony.

The novena to Saint Anthony is a powerful prayer that can help us to grow in our faith and to receive the graces that we need. If you are looking for a way to ask for Saint Anthony's intercession, the novena is a great option.

"St Anthony of Padua" flickr photo by Lawrence OP https://flickr.com/photos/paullew/27647763295 shared under a Creative Commons (BY-NC-ND) license

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A reading from the holy Gospel according to John

Caiaphas prophesied that Jesus was going to die for the nation, and not only for the nation, but also to gather into one the dispersed children of God. So from that day on they planned to kill him.

Today’s Gospel describes the plan of Caiaphas, high priest, to save the Jewish nation out of fear of the many signs Jesus performed. His fear is that if they leave Jesus on his own, people will come to believe in him. Caiaphas says to the Sanhedrin, “You know nothing, nor do you consider that it is better for you that one man should die instead of the people, so that the whole nation may not perish.” At the beginning of today’s Gospel, we hear how many of the Jews come to Mary to see what Jesus had done in raising her brother Lazarus from the dead. This great miracle of Jesus in the hands of Caiaphas was divisive, and he meant to do everything he could to prevent Jesus from driving a wedge between the political alignment of the Jewish nation and the Romans. God’s plan for salvation in his Son’s passion, death, and resurrection began to unfold through Caiaphas and Mary. One obstructed God’s plan to “gather into one the dispersed children of God”; the other, a willing participant in that plan, cooperated with the same grace that set salvation into motion. If I had lived in that time, which side would I have been on?

God, help me recognize that if I am not with you, I am against you. As Jesus says in the Gospel according to Matthew: “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.” It is not possible to do your will and at the same time divide and plot to do harm to others. Having seen her brother raised from the dead, Mary’s joy overflowed to those around her, giving witness to Jesus as miraculous healer and Son of God. She gathered rather than scattered. Today I will have many opportunities to choose between gathering or scattering. Grant me the grace, God, to be drawn to you and to gather together others toward you, toward what is true and good and beautiful.

Guard me today, Lord, and guide me in your ways. From the responsorial psalm, let me recall your voice throughout the day: “My dwelling shall be with them; I will be their God, and they shall be my people.”

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

⁠⁠Readings⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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From the responsorial psalm: "The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul; The decree of the LORD is trustworthy, giving wisdom to the simple. The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just."

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 4:18-22)

As Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew, casting a net into the sea; they were fishermen. He said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him.

After calling Simon and Andrew, Jesus walks along the shore and calls James and John to follow him. Simon and Andrew are casting a net into the sea, and James and John are mending their nets. From his walk along the shore, Jesus calls four fisherman who would become the first apostles. In the first reading, Saint Paul also describes the consequences of responding to the call of the Lord. If we are called, we are sent so that "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." In choosing the apostles, Jesus exercises childlike faith in the Father's plan, and we glimpse the beauty and simplicity of the mind of Jesus as he carries out his will. Men who cast nets to catch fish would be good at catching souls to be brought into his Father's kingdom. Men who mend nets would make good stewards of the faith, loyal and persevering in times of adversity. The Gospel acclamation speaks to all of us in the voice of Jesus: "Come after me, says the Lord, and I will make you fishers of men."

Father in heaven, strengthen my faith today; help me hear and respond to your call. To be saved is to be sent out and made fishers of men. As Saint Paul says, it is to confess that Jesus is Lord and to believe in my heart that you raised him from the dead. The risen Christ, alive in the word, in the Eucharist, and in the sacraments of the Church accomplishes your will as he calls me to respond immediately and follow him. As I look to you with childlike faith, make clear to me what skills and talents I have to bring the words of Christ to one person at a time so that everyone who hears would believe in the Gospel and call on your name. Saint Andrew, pray for us!

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

From the responsorial psalm: "All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands; break into song; sing praise. Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous deeds."

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 3:22-30)

"Amen, I say to you, all sins and all blasphemies that people utter will be forgiven them. But whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never have forgiveness, but is guilty of an everlasting sin."

Jesus summons the scribes to address a lie they have been telling about him. They say, "He is possessed by Beelzebul," and "By the prince of demons he drives out demons." United in the Father and the Holy Spirit, Jesus does not participate in division but only eternal unity. A human kingdom has unity but also has factions so that within that unity division can exist. Divided from the unity of truth, a lie springs from the father of lies, the evil one, and is participation in everlasting sin. Jesus knows the intentions of the scribes and through divine wisdom exposes their lie. Jesus says all sins and blasphemies will be forgiven. "But," he says, "whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never have forgiveness, but is guilty of an everlasting sin." Unity forged by the strongest human bonds will always fail; let the truth of God enter in to plunder and drive out division.

God, assist me by every good grace you can give me to recognize where division is so that you can bind it and make it useless. I don't want to live out of unity with you, yet that is where I tend in my inclination toward sin. Help me today in these two ways: by removing me from division and by letting you in. In my house, Lord, come with power to tie up and disable all that blocks your entrance. I don't want to participate in any lie that would keep you out, and I

depend on you for every good gift. Lord, you say, "Without me you can do nothing." Be my strength, Lord. Jesus, I trust in you!

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

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A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark

He took him off by himself away from the crowd. He put his finger into the man’s ears and, spitting, touched his tongue; then he looked up to heaven and groaned, and said to him, “Ephphatha!” (that is, “Be opened!”) And immediately the man’s ears were opened, his speech impediment was removed, and he spoke plainly. He ordered them not to tell anyone.

As Jesus leaves the district of Tyre and goes by way of Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, people bring to him a deaf man who has a speech impediment. Jesus takes the man away from the crowd to heal him, and Mark tells us exactly what Jesus does to restore his speech and hearing. The crowd, seeing this say, “He has done all things well. He makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.” By taking the man away from the crowd, he sets him apart from others in his individual identity; that is, he calls him by name and looks up to heaven—to his Father—and intercedes in prayer before curing him. Jesus does the same today through Baptism, as we are configured to Christ, and through his intercession at the right hand of the Father.

God, just as you formed Adam out of clay and breathed life into him, you restored the deaf man to health with your word. Help me understand that you are the living God and that we would cease to exist without the breath of your Spirit. Open my heart today, Lord, to listen to the words of your Son, who calls me away from the crowd to receive his unfathomable love.

Lord, I know you love me, but I am bound to forget that as the day unfolds. Call me back and open my ears to hear your voice, and teach me to desire your guidance and to trust you completely. Saint Scholastica, pray for us! As Saint Gregory the Great said of her, “She was able to do more because she loved more.”

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

Readings

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A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew

Jesus said to his disciples: “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.”

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus continues to speak to the disciples about the Old Testament teachings, bringing to fulfillment each one beginning with the words “But I say to you.” What Jesus proclaims reveals his divine authority to bring about the New Covenant. “You have heard that it was said,” Jesus says, “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil.” And he says: “You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” What is the aim of all of this? What is it’s end? Jesus says, “So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Alone, with self-reliance as the only ally, this is an impossible task. But God makes being perfect possible.

God, help me understand that along with the command to achieve perfection, your perfect mercy accompanies me along the way. The way to become your children, Jesus says, is to pray for those who persecute us. The rest is not up to me. It is you, God, who make your sun rise on the bad and the good; it is you who causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. Thanks be to God, that task is out of my hands!

Lord, let me keep in mind today’s Gospel acclamation: “Whoever keeps the word of Christ, the love of God is truly perfected in him.”

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

Feast of the Holy Innocents, martyrs

When the magi had departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him.”

In today’s Gospel reading, Matthew says that Herod became enraged when the magi had deceived him. He then ordered that all of the boys two years old and younger in Bethlehem and the area to be murdered. Herod sought to destroy a truth he could not bear to come to the throne: Jesus, incarnate Truth. In Herod’s massacre of the Holy Innocents, great suffering and inconsolable grief came among the people of Bethlehem. As a baptism by blood, this martyrdom brought them into God’s perpetual light and mercy. Herod in his fury, would acknowledge no wrongdoing in this and deceived himself of the truth and redemption revealed in the infant Jesus. As Saint John says in the first reading: “If we say, ‘We are without sin,’ we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we acknowledge our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from every wrongdoing.” What do I do to speak for the Holy Innocents, the unborn, who have no voice to defend or protect them?

God, help me understand that the massacre of the Holy Innocents continues today. Turn my heart in prayer to you alone who can free the Holy Innocents from slaughter. As the psalmist says, “Broken was the snare, and we were freed. Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.” Father almighty, Truth and Mercy itself, take my hands and my voice to make me an instrument of your will. Help me know and do your will.

Jesus, dying on the cross you destroyed death; rising, you restored life. Massacred at the command of Herod, the Holy Innocents received a baptism by blood; born into heaven, they praise you forever. Grant me the grace, Lord, to acknowledge my sins so that you can cleanse me from every wrongdoing. Lord, have mercy!

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

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"Martyrdom of the Holy Innocents" flickr photo by Lawrence OP https://flickr.com/photos/paullew/8317790480 shared under a Creative Commons (BY-NC-ND) license

"Holy Innocents" flickr photo by Lawrence OP https://flickr.com/photos/paullew/50770378616 shared under a Creative Commons (BY-NC-ND) license

"Martyrdom of the Holy Innocents" flickr photo by Lawrence OP https://flickr.com/photos/paullew/49285705553 shared under a Creative Commons (BY-NC-ND) license

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From the responsorial psalm: "Although they go forth weeping, carrying the seed to be sown, They shall come back rejoicing, carrying their sheaves. The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy."

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 3:1-6)

John went throughout the whole region of the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah:
    A voice of one crying out in the desert:
    “Prepare the way of the Lord,
        make straight his paths.
    Every valley shall be filled
        and every mountain and hill shall be made low.
    The winding roads shall be made straight,
        and the rough ways made smooth,
    and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.”

Luke couches the appearance of John the Baptist within a historical context. Before Jesus entered human history, John's ministry was that of repentance and forgiveness of sins to prepare the way of the Lord. Within that context, the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah. In that coming, God breaks into human history through the voice of the greatest of prophets who sets the stage so that "all flesh shall see the salvation of God."

God, help me understand today's readings for the second Sunday of Advent. Help me hear the prayer of Saint Paul as he writes in his letter what he desires for all who hear the voice of Christ: "that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and every kind of perception, to discern what is of value." Right here and right now, Lord, in the context of a specific time and place, your word comes to me. The winding road of the present day lies before me. With your grace, work through me to make straight a path and prepare for your coming.

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

From the responsorial psalm: “You are a priest for ever, in the line of Melchizedek. The LORD said to my Lord: 'Sit at my right hand till I make your enemies your footstool.'"

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 2:18-22)

Jesus answered them, "Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast. But the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast on that day."

A day after we hear John's account of the Wedding at Cana, today's Gospel again presents Jesus as the bridegroom who delights in the guests at the wedding banquet. As long as Jesus is physically present, joy and fulfillment are given in abundance. But a time will come when he is "taken way" during his passion and death; then there will be fasting in the sorrow of his absence. The two parables Jesus shares—the new patch on the old garment and new wine poured into old wineskins—illustrate the new reality Jesus brings in his presence. The New Covenant cannot simply be imposed on or confined by the ways of the old covenant. The joy of the New Covenant is in Christ himself and the Church he establishes through perfect obedience to the Father.

God, help me participate fully in the joy and new life Jesus brings as your bridegroom. Strengthen my faith, especially in times of sorrow and guide me to live in the fullness of joy that comes from following Jesus Christ your Son. As Saint Paul says, "Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered; and when he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him." By his example and through your grace, guide me in knowing and doing your will.

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

Once when Jesus was praying in solitude, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” They said in reply, “John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, ‘One of the ancient prophets has arisen.’” Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said in reply, “The Christ of God.” This episode is also available as a blog post: https://lectiodiv.wordpress.com/2022/09/23/memorial-of-saint-pius-of-pietrelcina-priest/

The mother of Jesus and his brothers came to him but were unable to join him because of the crowd. He was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside and they wish to see you.” He said to them in reply, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.” This episode is also available as a blog post: https://lectiodiv.wordpress.com/2022/09/20/memorial-of-saints-andrew-kim-tae-gon-priest-and-paul-chong-ha-sang-and-companions-martyrs/

From the responsorial psalm: “The voice of the LORD is over the waters, the LORD, over vast waters. The voice of the LORD is mighty; the voice of the LORD is majestic. The Lord will bless his people with peace."

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 3:15-16, 21-22)

After all the people had been baptized and Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”

The people are filled with excitement and expectation about John the Baptist and asking themselves if he might be the Messiah. John responds by making clear that his baptism is with water but that there is one mightier coming after him who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. After being baptized by John and as Jesus is praying, the heavens open and the Holy Spirit descends upon him in a form like a dove. The voice from heaven is that of the Father who is well pleased in his beloved Son. In the second reading, we hear that God anointed his Son with the Holy Spirit and power. And as prophesied by Isaiah, the LORD is well pleased in his servant, Jesus, the incarnation of the New Covenant. "I, the LORD, have called you for the victory of justice, I have grasped you by the hand."

God, help me throughout the day be aware that you are present as I dwell on the baptism of your only begotten Son. In meditating on your love for Jesus, I think also of the love Zechariah had for his son John, who says of him in his canticle: "You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High." In the powerful, affirming love of a father for a son is a glimpse of your filial love for us as your children. Christ accomplished in his baptism the forgiveness of our sins and the way to eternal life as your sons and daughters. In calling your Son for the victory of justice, you have freed us and opened the heavens so that we always give to you the glory due your name. "Give to the LORD, you sons of God, give to the LORD glory and praise."

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

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Free guide! https://quarryapps.gumroad.com/l/jojqau Lectio Divina: A Journey into God’s Word. Support Lectio Divina Reflections on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user/membership?u=85589341 CONNECT WITH US: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5maE4Sy9syoeNuHHKP7apk?si=73876ed118be4519 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/lectio-divina-daily-reflections/id1637258440 Please consider supporting Lectio Divina Reflections by sending us a financial gift. Thank you! https://buy.stripe.com/5kA8zx64ycdXgyQbII Your support helps us keep going.