Created for a Purpose

Keep the faith!

2011-02-09T14:21:00.001+08:00

Since I started writing about gifted kids and how to identify them, I’ve received several messages from parents looking for advice. You can email me at rinelle.amor@gmail.com

I’m not an educational or psychological expert, but just a parent who has been in the same situation. I point out what this parent is facing because I know how easy it is to worry there’s something wrong with your child. Now I know that all they really need is a great teacher who understands them, and the right services tailored to their ‘special needs’.

Keep the faith! And keep advocating for your gifted children.

Characteristics of Gifted Child

2011-01-14T17:18:00.001+08:00

ERIC Clearinghouse on Handicapped and Gifted Children (1985) cites General Behavior Characteristics of Gifted Child

Gifted children's behavior differs from that of their age-mates in the following ways:

Many gifted children learn to read early, with better comprehension of the nuances of language. As much as half the gifted and talented population has learned to read before entering school. Gifted children often read widely, quickly, and intensely and have large vocabularies. Gifted children commonly learn basic skills better, more quickly, and with less practice. They are better able to construct and handle abstractions. They often pick up and interpret nonverbal cues and can draw inferences that other children need to have spelled out for them. They take less for granted, seeking the "hows" and "whys." They can work independently at an earlier age and can concentrate for longer periods. Their interests are both wildly eclectic and intensely focused. They often have seemingly boundless energy, which sometimes leads to a misdiagnosis of hyperactivity. They usually respond and relate well to parents, teachers, and other adults. They may prefer the company of older children and adults to that of their peers. They like to learn new things, are willing to examine the unusual, and are highly inquisitive. They tackle tasks and problems in a well-organized, goal-directed, and efficient manner. They exhibit an intrinsic motivation to learn, find out, or explore and are often very persistent. "I'd rather do it myself" is a common attitude.

How do you tell if your child is gifted?

2010-12-12T14:03:00.001+08:00

I want to stress that the gifted are normal people.But they face special challenges, especially unreal expectations, notably being seen as strange and unhappy. Others, such as parents and teachers, can feel threatened by them and react with put-downs. What they need is acceptance for who they are, appropriate opportunities to develop their potential and reliable moral support. These types of scenarios are not unusual. In fact, some estimate that the majority of gifted children in the schools are never identified.

Parents should become familiar with the signs of giftedness even before their child starts school. Most school districts do not even start identifying children for gifted programs until second or third grade, and parents of exceptionally bright or gifted children may want to consider private testing or alternative placement options (such as a private preschool school program or early grade acceleration) before that time.

Early testing and identification can be a controversial subject, but many advocates of gifted children believe that they should be identified as soon as possible so that their unique needs and talents can be acknowledged and nurtured right from the start.

Do not be entirely dependent on the schools when it comes to identification. Keep in mind that many teacher training programs require little (if any) course work in giftedness, so some teachers and school administrators may not have all the information they need to recognize gifted children. For this reason, our insights are important, and the more knowledge we have, the better position we're in to partnership with others when selecting the best programs for our child.

Parent Expertise

2010-11-15T13:38:00.000+08:00

As an educator for almost 14 years, I have come to fully understand that parents are the true experts of their own children. We teachers do not use parent expertise nearly enough. Until I heard from my son Developmental Pediatrician regarding this matter.

Advanced language development, especially speaking in sentences earlier than milestones indicate, seems to be one possible clue for potential giftedness. An early onset of being intrinsically motivated. Children who chose to try improve their own work. Children who put pressure themselves to have things organized and as perfect as possible—even when their parents are laid back. Often children were described as those who were extremely persistent at accomplishing a task. And only parent can often described their creative child as one who “marches to his/her own beat.”

Regardless of any test, most of these gifted children were first identified at home. We are the expert on our own child. Feed their interests and encourage their curiosity.

Keep pressing on

2010-10-09T13:13:00.002+08:00

The word "Gifted" is not commonly understood even among teachers and many educators. This puts enourmous pressure on us as parents of gifted boy. I almost lost my son's potential due to my lack of knowledge. I hoped that he will just be a normal bright child. I learned about gifted children some years ago when we had a check through developmental pediatrician and realised how badly I have failed my son who once would go in extreme speed in mastery skills.

He was asked to take him for a test, he works on any subject with flying colors that is about 2 years ahead of his grade. One morning, I got up and said " I will do the best that I can to sustain my son learning enhancement. Since then, both me and my husband have gone miles to work something out at my son. We are among handful parents who have managed to negotiate for an individual education plan where he is allowed to work on his own books in subjects where he is working in an advance level. Though he now he is a homeschool his books are fully monitored by us. This is a great challenge for a child of his age but amazingly he is coping well. Today, we can say that he enjoys homeschool to some extent. I want to say this to all parents who find help far away, "Don't give up, you can, with your determination and perseverance bring about a change for your gifted child". Your child needs you, not just as their parent and guardian but also as their advocate. Keep pressing on.

Unique Learning Style

2010-09-05T04:05:00.007+08:00

My li'l boy Rallone has kinesthetic learning style,he cannot just sit still and wait for information to be given. He surpass in finding out things for himself without any needs for guidance. Explorers at heart, he is quite active even before a lesson proper. His natural curiosity drives him to make new discoveries, making it hard for regular schools to limit his movement. He was often mistaken to be rowdy and undisciplined. That however, is a grave misconception. "Kinesthetic learners always seem to be moving around because they see their surroundings differently. For them, the world is just a huge playground full of wonderful things they want to discover and explore."

Rallione is fond of tinkering with toys, trying to find out how they work. He is also quick learner, especially when he left alone to examine a particular object. He can quickly put one and one together and have a great capacity to understand complex processes and procedures.He is always at the forefront of experimentation and exploration.

******************************

If your child shows an extreme fondness of taking things apart to discover how they function, you should consider home schooling like what I did. They should be given the opportunity to excel in their studies using their natural skills

Observing how your child learns is the first step in developing a good home schooling program. Create a list of your child's learning behaviors and determine whether he is a visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learner.

Choosing the right lessons, activities, and teaching methods will put your child on the right track to a successful future. In their formative years, children will develop certain attitudes towards school and learning.

Parents like you should pay close attention to their preferences and consider alternative education if you feel that regular school systems have failed in helping students achieve their full potential.

How can we differentiate between behavior problems due to sensory processing problems and behaviors due to other problems?

2010-08-03T02:57:00.000+08:00

At first it was hard for me to differentiate too, but eventually you just learn your child. It depends on what sensory issues you are dealing with also. With us we have made a rule that even if he thinks an item of clothing doesn't feel good he at least has to try it on (even if he has before) sometimes this rule works and sometimes its a little harder with crying and a little fear, but when he turns to tantrums we tell him .. we put him in his bed and tell him he can come out when he is ready to follow the rules and speak respectfully and also we make a point to tell him that we are not upset with his because his clothes don't feel good, we are upset with him because of how he is behaving.

Also there are things that have nothing to do with needing sensory input we have noticed is just he testing his boundaries and we handle it accordingly. just remember spanking never solves anything... it will just teach them it's okay to hit considering kids learn by what you do not what you say... plus it would only backfire in a sensory kid.

We have found that if we impose certain rules that apply mid meltdown not matter what the reason for his actions it creates consistency and a general idea that no matter what you are going through it is never okay to hit or be disrespectful. Just remember to take a deep breath and walk away...

Now that Rallione is 7, thankfully he's much more affectionate, loves kisses and cuddles and constantly tells me he loves me.

Extremely sensitive

2010-07-24T15:42:00.003+08:00

It is said that crying is a normal reaction of a child missing his dad. But not for my lil boy Rallione who is now experiencing a deep sense of longing for his dad. We dropped my hubby early this morning at Terminal 1 NAIA. I sensed the intense emotions trying to escape from my lil boy.

People often believe that sensitive children like Rallione are simply being melodramatic and making a fuss over nothing. The truth is many gifted children are extremely sensitive.Rallione seems to take everything to his heart and get extremely upset by words and deeds that other children can ignore or get over quickly.He respond to each negative experience as though it was the end of the world.

The reason

2010-07-13T07:34:00.002+08:00

Through homeschooling we can impart the values to my son Rallione and turn him into self-learner by making each moment a "learning moment".Learning becomes part of his lifestyle. Even after class hours, we can teach our son. Learning takes place 24/7, not only during class hours.

Parents who come to homeschooling for various reasons, like the rising cost of tuition and other school fees. Some decided to opt for homeschooling because of their children’s traumatic experience in regular schools.

But for me, the decision to take charge of my son's education was due to his condition. My son is potentially gifted child. I wanted my son to learn more and to study at his own pace.

My son was only in grade one, probably other might think that it could be a lot of difficulties if I will allow him to study independently and at times with my guidance. But I sensed that my little boy really knew what he is supposed to do, the result of his assestment test can attest to that.

At home, we build his self-esteem. We can tell him who he really are, we don’t diminish his strengths and we don’t magnify his weaknesses.

diff. kind of learning experiences for Ral

2010-07-12T16:59:00.002+08:00

I would rather gave Rallione a different kind of learning experience. I asked him, if he wanted me to teach him at home.He was so excited at the prospect of studying at home. We did not have to convince him! I could spend more time with you Mommy, he said.

With home-schooling, parents could adjust to the learning needs of their children. If the child learns fast, we could move on to more challenging lessons. On the other hand, if the child has difficulty in one particular lesson, the parent can spend more time on that subject.

I believe that homeschooling let me adopt teaching styles not used in traditional schools. Schools use the lecture style of teaching. Naturally, children who are good listeners excel in this setting.
With numerous studies on multiple intelligences coming out, more focus has been given to children with different learning capabilities.

My son for example, is kinesthetic—he learns more by manipulating things that Rallione was more auditory and visual, understanding things better if he could see them.

Socialization was not a problem with home-schoolers. Rallione for one has cousins across the street to play with. Socialization does not mean that you only relate with people your own age. Homeschooling will give Rallione the opportunity to deal with older people and younger ones in a confident manner.

This school year, we will start a homeschooling. Probably Rallione can do his schoolwork from Monday to Thursday. He will have Fridays to himself and weekends for the family. In homeschooling, we can finish everything in four days.

Home schooling for Ral

2010-07-10T12:27:00.003+08:00

Sorry it has been a long time! We have been so busy for the past few days! Having a gifted child a spd can completely exhaust us and professional if they are not educated on the disorder( and sometimes even if they are). Considering this situation, we decided to pull Rallione out from school. We will consider a homeschool for now.

Homeschooling can help us create a more flexible environment. Rallione likes to do things on his own. We thought that somehow home schooling will bless us esp. me with the opportunity to spend 24/7 with him. The precious time during his formative years will surely cement the bond between us. We will come to know each other 's strenght and weaknesses and this will hlp us understand and appreciate each other deeply.

Wish I could have a magic wand

2010-06-29T14:27:00.005+08:00

Believe it or not, Rallione has improved markedly once he started going to preparatory! The changes in the last year have been factors better! We were afraid to "unleash" him on his unsuspecting teacher, but Teacher Liza is a tough cookie, and she's handling him great. I was even contemplating home schooling because I thought, regular school will be a disaster!!

I'll never forget how his teacher had never heard of SPD before, and we were like, "here we go!!!" But it's amazing how things work out. I think having my son in an environment all day long where he can see how other kids act has been HUGELY good for him. His school work is great. He's had some behavior issues - he doesn't understand other people's space, etc., but his "red marks" at school are consistent -- we are working on those.

Rallione is now in first grade and he seemed OK for the first few days, but then they switched teachers on him and now his symptoms are all back. He complained about the loud sound cause by his lot of classmates, he refuses completely to wear socks.He also complaining about the longer hour of sitting in school.

The teacher and principal and the whole staff of the school are being unbelievable supportive, but it's so stressful! I'm so stressed out I can hardly sleep or eat and every time the teacher calls my attention, I jump a foot in the air for fear that he's gone into a meltdown again.

With three kids, managing his symptoms and being an advocate for his in school has been very hard. We are doing everything we can for him because we love him so much and he's the most wonderful child when he's not all freaked out about his sensory issues, but I just wish I could wave a magic wand and make it all turn normal.

How do I deal with my son issues and behaviors

2010-06-29T13:46:00.004+08:00

I have only learned this through searching and reading but i found it effective at times...

Make sure to give them lots of huggs....it reduces their stress with a low tone of voice and the pressure releases endorphins from their joints and they will calm down... know that it is not their fault...their senses are out of wack....when they are sitting on your lap, rub their head, run your hands up and down their legs with softness almost tickling...do not push them on their eating habits, don't rush them into events, talk softly and explain what is going to happen...get them into physical. Also swinging is sooo important.... swing them and sing to them on the swing at least 30 minutes a day!!! god bless

If they only knew

2010-06-28T15:07:00.004+08:00

Allow me to introduce you to my son:

*From the moment he was born, he wouldn’t stop crying (it took him three hours to fall asleep after his birth)
*The pacifier became his best friend until 3 years old and he never found any replacement afterwards to help him soothe himself
*I would literally spend hours gently shaking him in my arms until he fell asleep
*He startled with every noise he heard
*He would only wear “soft clothes”, no jeans or “itchy shirts”… stretch pants and cotton shirts were the staples
*Daily anxiety about the unknown/unpredictable
*Excessively ticklish
*Continues to cover his ears with loud sounds

Being my youngest child, I initially thought this was “normal”. As I became worn out by all of his emotional needs and saw his “behaviors” being “different” than other children his age, I started my quest to find out why!

Every time we attempted to discuss our concerns with his pediatrician we would only hear “that is completely normal for hisage, he’ll grow out of it, it’s only a phase…”

No one seemed to understand our son or our struggles as parents. It always seemed to come down to blaming us for being too accommodating to him…it was OUR fault. They would say, “too bad, he should just get over it!!”

There were so many misunderstandings, arguments, and judgments from family, friends, , preschools, teachers and professionals. Our frustration was increasing every day and my patience was wearing thin!

I have learned so much through educating myself, seeking professional help, doing research, specializing in this field.

Sensory Processing Disorder is a real neurological disorder, yet still so often misunderstood. It can have a huge impact on a child’s well-being, daily functioning, social skills, relationships and self-esteem.

Having a child with a Sensory Processing Disorder can also completely exhaust parents and professionals if they are not educated on the disorder (and sometimes even if they are!).

A open letter

2010-06-27T14:21:00.006+08:00

When I found out that my Li'l boy Rallione is potentially Gifted with SPD. All I want to do is to keep the reality from relatives, friends and other people around us. But somehow Rallione grew up as a smart and caring li'l boy, which made me decide to share with you my life with my boy as we walk in the different phases of life.

When he was born, he cries all the time. The doctor thought it was colic, or digestive problems, so those issues were treated... But as a mom knowing your child something still didn't seem right, he always wanted to be in his diaper and wanted a hug most of the time.

I did some research until I finally read an article about the SPD with the title "ADHD Impostor". Learning about the SPD felt like a light bulb had gone on and finally I understood why my son was struggling and why we were so frustrated with his behaviour at times. I don't want my son to have a label but I do want the best for our son and want him to be as amazing as I know he can be.

Back then, I started to search for the best developmental doctors in town and finally found one. It was a great help for us to really understand what my li'l boy was. After reading the diagnosis and some of the signs of SPD and what it feels like to them, I cried and cried to know that this is what my son feels everyday. Then the guilt sets in about all the times we were angry with him... thinking he was being a brat, or unreasonable.

We also seeked occupational therapy, we see improvements, then it will just confirm for me that this a real condition, my son has it, and there are real positive steps that can be taken to help children and their parents to enjoy life more and not to struggle so much.

For instance, when he is excited, he will run and "crash" or bear hug and do touch other people he don't even know. I don't know how many times I told him to stop, or explain to him that it is inappropriate to do this, he does this anyway. He is also constantly touching others faces. I try to explain to him personal space, but it is as if he "forgets" or doesn't get it.

I know that Rallione is not being naughty or malicious, I have sensed for a long time that he is just not in control of his body and can't help his actions. He exhausts me with his endless energy. I struggle with how to discipline him - if this is not his fault, he needs extra empathy, compassion and patience which I find hard when he testing me to my limits. Also, I believe it is important to still be strict and discipline him like any other child who steps out of line to help him learn what is and what isn't appropriate behaviour.

Rallione cannot wear jeans or anything that isn't very soft and smooth. At times even sitting on the couch seems to be unbearable without a soft blanket under him. He also fluctuates from day to day, sometimes he is bouncing off the walls and can't get enough stimulus and other days buckling his seatbelt is hard for him to do and he's scared to touch anything. Sometimes raindrops falling on his skin seem to hurt him and birds chirping are too loud. He has some seeing problems too which is the hardest for me to understand, but I try.

He is hypersensitive to touch. Sound, every little noise drives him mad, smells everything and will not taste new food. He lives on breakfast cereal, bread, chicken nuggets.

He hates new situations and will go into himself if he is not happy with things.He is in first grade and the bullying has now carried to the classroom. He has become the person in the class that every one teases, calls him bad , and tell him that no one likes him, and the list goes on. He asks what is wrong with him, because no one likes him.

He's addicted to the tv and computer games but we have recently limited this activity as it appears to make him more aggressive, more hyper and less able to deal with frustrations at attempting to do things.

I am sure parents dealing with SPD children know exactly what I am talking about... People out in public would stare at me like why are you letting your li'l boy to roam around running. Ohh!!!... if they only knew. Sometimes I also feel tired of explaining to other regarding my son differences from the other but still in my heart I know I should be very strong for my son.

Believe me, there are people who can still understand without any explanation, but still there are some that despite of explaining , they could hardly understand...But I leave it that way...what matters most is my son. Children with SPD needs to receive our utmost love and understanding.

I believe SPD is real and my hope is that it is recognized sooner rather than later and people become more understanding and empathetic to the children and the parents of these children. Child rearing is difficult enough, without SPD thrown into the mix.

Right now, Rallione's school is very supportive and understanding and needless to say we have tried punishments, incentives, talking through with him how other children feel etc. Because he is very smart, appears to have no unusual 'symptoms', seems to be just another high spirited normal 7 year old, most people would probably say there is nothing wrong with him but having been around him 24/7 the last 7 years, I sense that if he is to be successful then these extra sensory needs need to be addressed before they cause real problems.

I am not a professional in this field, but I feel in my heart that someday we will see light at the end of the tunnel.

What is Sensory processing disorder

2010-06-27T13:40:00.000+08:00

Sensory processing refers to how we experience our surroundings. How we take in information through our senses (touch, movement, smell, taste, vision, and hearing), organize and interpret that information, and make a meaningful and appropriate response.

Most people process information about their surroundings without even thinking about it. Lights may be glaringly bright, but we squint and ignore them. A room full of noisy people may make conversation difficult, but we talk louder and listen harder. Most of us never notice if our sock has a wrinkle in it, or care if our food is lumpy. But for people with sensory processing disorders, these situations bombard their senses, feeling more like an attack than a nuisance.

Sensory processing issues can make it difficult for children to concentrate, and may be misinterpreted as signs of ADD. Their seeming "over-reaction" to sensory input can also be misinterpreted as behavioral issues.

When a child is unable to cope with typical daily doses of noise, fluorescent lights, scratchy tags, food textures, and jostling crowds - parents may seek help from Occupational Therapists (OT's) that are trained in sensory processing issues. Therapy can reduce the child's anxiety and help them cope with and minimize their sensitivities.

At the opposite end of sensory processing issues, there are also children who seem oblivious to their senses. They seem to feel no pain and fear nothing. They may love rough-housing, and try to get other children to wrestle with them, not realizing that others don't enjoy it.
They may be spinners or rockers, and often love spicy or sour foods. Therapy can help these children to be more aware of their senses, help them moderate their behavior, and help their families provide a daily "sensory diet" rich in sensory experiences.

Blog Transformation (Sensory Processing Disorder)

2010-06-27T13:34:00.004+08:00

Sorry it has been a long time! It takes me so long before I decided to share with you my struggle being a mother of SPD kid. Starting now I will join you in my journey in finding the hope and strength needed to get through raising my li'l boy Rallione, as a "mother of potentially gifted child with SPD".

I am now a stay-at-home mom trying to manage life with a "bumper and crasher" I'll share our journey, good and bad, as well as what we do and what we've tried to manage this disorder. We've learned so much together and I've learned so much from being her mom. I share about what therapies we have had and are currently having, what I've found works (or doesn't work) for us, information about special needs and how to be an advocate for your child. Here you will find all the latest updates, changes, new information, news about Giftedness, SPD and personal comments/questions.

Blog makeover

2010-03-02T09:13:00.002+08:00

Friends and Visitors, I am on the process of make over, for your convenience. I am truly grateful for the support each of you has extended to my blogsite that resulted to more viewer who visited and linked to my site.

Please bear with me as I adjust and modify my template, topics that will surely suits your interest.

2010-02-14T20:25:00.000+08:00

Sat., Jan. 30: 2 Sam 12:1-7a, 10-17; Mark 4:35-41

2010-01-30T11:02:00.000+08:00

Quiet! Be still! With a few simple words, Jesus calms the tempest. We should take note when our own lives are in upheaval and our personal demons rage within us. We need to let Jesus exercise his might in soothing our internal storms. We need to quiet ourselves, be still and rest assured that the Lord will not allow us to perish.

*For faith that the Lord will save us from the violent squalls of our lives, we pray.

Fri., Jan. 29: 2 Sam 11:1-4a, 5-10a, 13-17; Mark 4:26-34

2010-01-29T11:01:00.000+08:00

With many such parables he spoke the word to them as they were able to understand it. The Lord will meet us where we are. There is no intent to confuse or deceive us — no unfathomable mystery or complicated theology. He speaks simply and directly to us in order to lead us to the kingdom. What would we or the Lord gain from our inability to comprehend his love for us and his purpose for our lives? No matter how insignificant we may feel, the Lord clearly wants us to realize that we’re called to be part of the kingdom. Those who get that idea will gain more than they can possibly imagine.

*Lord, help us to grow in understanding, we pray.

Thurs., Jan. 28: 2 Sam 7:18-19, 24-29; Mark 4:21-25

2010-01-28T11:00:00.000+08:00

Thomas Aquinas, priest and doctor

The measure with which you measure will be measured out to you. In our consume-and-discard society we’ll eventually face a serious crisis of diminishing resources. One commodity that is already lacking from our day-to-day existence is compassion. We may credit ourselves with possessing the gifts of generosity and consideration, but how generous are we, really? What if our Lord returned to us only what we gave to others? What if he held back for fear of not having enough for himself? Times are tough, but certain resources should never be in short supply — love, forgiveness, understanding, acceptance, patience, justice and mercy. Indeed, the one who has these assets will surely be given more.

*That we may always share the countless and wondrous gifts we have received, we pray.

Wed., Jan. 27: 2 Sam 7:4-17; Mark 4:1-20

2010-01-27T10:59:00.000+08:00

Angela Merici, virgin

And these are the ones sown on rocky ground who, when they hear the word, receive it at once with joy. But they have no root; they last only for a time.

It’s easy at this time of year to enter the doldrums of our faith life. The excitement of Advent and the Christmas season has passed, and the discipline of Lent still seems far off. At seemingly high points in the liturgical year we have a tendency to regard our faith life like a new and exciting romance; however, often a relationship that starts like a whirlwind cools to a comfortable complacency that we take for granted. Jesus encourages us to keep the joy of our faith alive. We cannot leave it untended and expect it to grow. We must recognize every time of year, even so-called Ordinary Time, as the perfect season for God’s word to take root within us.

*Lord, find within us rich soil to sow your word, we pray.

Tues., Jan. 26: 2 Tim 1:1-8; Mark 3:31-35

2010-01-26T10:58:00.000+08:00

Timothy and Titus, bishops

Who are my mother and my brothers?

So many people seem determined to tear us apart. We can’t turn on the television or radio or open a newspaper without feeling the effects of our national and international divisions. The 24-hour cable news and the Internet allow for endless programs aimed at separating people. We teach children not to label by color, but we see no disconnect in judgmentally calling states red or blue or people conservative or liberal. It’s easy to question who our mother and brothers are when we can look across the aisle at church and see good folks whom someone constantly paints as our opposition. We need to recognize that people of faith and goodwill labor in many different ways to do the work of God. We may prefer our own ways, but we should have faith that the Lord guides our mothers and sisters and brothers to take different paths for the glory of his name. Lord, make us one, we pray.

Mon., Jan. 25: Acts 22:3-16 or Acts 9:1-22; Mark 16:15-18

2010-01-25T10:58:00.000+08:00

Conversion of Paul, apostle

I persecuted this Way to death, binding both men and women and delivering them to prison. We’re never beyond the power of the Lord’s healing touch. No matter how far we stray or what wrongs we’ve committed, the Lord seeks to bring us home. Regardless of the darkness of our sin, the Lord’s light can shine in our lives. Even if we’ve been deaf to the cries of those we harm, the Lord will continue to call until we no longer can ignore his voice. We simply need to recognize our failings and, like St. Paul, ask the Lord to guide us in our blindness.

*O Righteous One, speak to us. Help us regain our sight, we pray.

Sat., Jan. 23: 2 Sam 1:1-4, 11-12, 19, 23-27; Mark 3:20-21

2010-01-23T10:57:00.000+08:00

He is out of his mind. Short Gospel today. Calling folks crazy is one way of explaining why they stay faithful, resist temptation to follow the crowd, continue to love when love seems hopelessly naive. Another word for it is “saint.”

*For faith that withstands accusation, purity that resists temptation, love that embraces all that is good, we pray.

Fri., Jan. 22: 1 Sam 24:3-21; Mark 3:13-19

2010-01-22T10:56:00.000+08:00

He appointed the Twelve. Apostolic succession is one of the serious doctrinal issues that is a stumbling block to unity among the churches. It is ironic, but perhaps predictable, that the great unifiers are also the great dividers, the Eucharist being the most obvious. And yet, many of the differences among the Christian churches are simply a matter of style. We sing different songs, pray using different words, use different books — or no books at all. Dig deeper and we discover the common ground. Today on the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision we remember another divider — the issue of abortion. We need to find common ground on the life issues and it seems possible only with God’s grace.

*For wisdom, creativity, humility and charity so that we may together find ways to reverence all life.

Thurs., Jan. 21: 1 Sam 18:6-9; 19:1-7; Mark 3:7-12

2010-01-21T10:56:00.000+08:00

Agnes, virgin, martyr

Unclean spirits saw Jesus and shouted, ‘You are the Son of God.’ Throughout the Gospel of Mark only the demons recognize Jesus. His true identity remains a secret even from his followers and is revealed only when he dies on the cross and the centurion pronounces, “Surely, this man was the Son of God.” We are in the midst of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Sometimes we are so involved in our own community’s efforts and squabbles that we forget to pray for unity. Why should we? Because it was among the last wishes of Jesus before he left this earth: “Father, may they all be one.” Our divisions are surely the work of the demons, who recognize that a united church strengthens Jesus’ presence in this world.

*Lord Jesus, we pray with you to the Father: “Make us one.”

Wed., Jan. 20: 1 Sam 17:32-33, 37, 40-51; Mark 3:1-6

2010-01-20T10:55:00.000+08:00

Thus David overcame the Philistine. Like children everywhere, we love stories of the righteous little guy’s triumph over the powerful big guy. The powerful are after Jesus, watching for any misstep. Jesus, grieved by their hardness of heart and despite the danger, still heals on the Sabbath. We are in the midst of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Such unity, like world peace, seems an impossible dream. And yet a young boy defeats the Philistine army and Jesus makes his way to Calvary, only to rise to new life.

*For the impossible: for the unity of Christians and the success of our common efforts for a peaceful world, we pray.

Tues., Jan. 19: 1 Sam 16:1-13; Mark 2:23-28

2010-01-19T10:55:00.000+08:00

Why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?

Occasionally Jesus set aside lesser laws in order to put into practice a higher law. We have a duty to imitate Jesus, but with the same single-mindedness and purity of heart. Jesus didn’t thumb his nose at religious authority. He was not a rebel, but one whose heart and mind were so attuned to the truth that he could only do what was right and just. There are situations where we find ourselves struggling with this conflict between lesser and higher laws. One that occurs to me is in the area of immigration. Aren’t some of the so-called “illegals” obeying a higher law of providing for their children? Can we fault them?

*For pure hearts and honest minds and God’s own wisdom so that we may always live out the higher law of love.

Mon., Jan. 18: 1 Sam 15:16-23; Mark 2:18-22

2010-01-18T10:54:00.000+08:00

New wine … old wineskins. Those of us accustomed to drinking a $3 bottle of Shiraz may find this image confusing. New wine will ferment and burst the old, stretched wineskin. You need a new wineskin that will stretch with the expanding wine. Today in the United States we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It might be well to remember two things: 1. there are people who have only recently experienced a liberal activist Christianity. We should remind them that the civil rights movement was a Christian-inspired crusade against racism and included thousands of Catholics marching in the ranks. 2. It is not enough to change the law. The “new wine” of the Civil Rights Act was once too much for the “old wineskins” of our institutions, leaving us confused, resentful and scared. We cried, “What more can we do?” We stretched and we hurt, but it is more and more common for people of different heritages to join together, including in the White House. Where do we confront today’s new wine and old wineskins? Health care reform?

*For the generosity and strength to bear the burden of our convictions, we pray.

Sat., Jan. 16: 1 Sam 9:1-4, 17-19; 10:1a; Mark 2:13-17

2010-01-16T10:53:00.000+08:00

I did not come to call the righteous but sinners. When we look at our world, our city, our church, our family and even ourselves, we may be tempted either to the sin of presumption (I don’t have to do anything. God will fix it) or that of despair (It can’t be fixed). Our pride is at the basis of both these wrong attitudes. We do not want to accept what we are — sinners who are incapable of making things right on our own, yet sinners who are so loved by God that we are called and empowered to be the Lord’s instruments in the healing of the world and its people.

*Lord, shed your light on us so that we may see both our great need and your greater love.

Fri., Jan. 15: 1 Sam 8:4-7, 10-22a; Mark 2:1-12

2010-01-15T10:52:00.000+08:00

They are rejecting me as their king. Those who stray from the Lord and the church often say it’s because they want to be “free” — free from rules and restrictions that they think will keep them from having total control of their lives (as if we ever had total control). If that sounds tempting, recall the saying: “Be careful what you wish for; you might get it!” Time and again, we try to remake God’s will into a more comfortable fit. Time and again, God gently leads us back through the scriptures and the church to the basic truth that in God’s rule and kingdom is our peace, our salvation and our protection from devastating harm.

*Lord, teach me that in your will is my peace and the peace of all the earth

Thurs., Jan. 14: 1 Sam 4:1-11; Mark 1:40-45

2010-01-14T10:51:00.000+08:00

‘If you wish, you can make me clean.’ Jesus replied, ‘I do will it. Be made clean.’ Jesus was “moved with pity” by the leper’s plea not only for physical healing, but for the freedom to rejoin his fellow Israelites and to be shunned no longer. Jesus wants to heal us from whatever keeps us from full communion with the church. Notice that Jesus commanded the leper, as the final step of his healing, to do what the Law of Moses required. If we are separated from our fellow worshipers by an attitude, a sin or an estrangement from the community — even from one of its members.

*let us seek the resolution of this impediment to unity through counseling, repentance, confession and reconciliation. Lord, be merciful to me, a sinner.

Wed., Jan. 13: 1 Sam 3:1-10, 19-20; Mark 1:29-39

2010-01-13T10:50:00.000+08:00

Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening. We can get so involved in proclaiming and working for God’s kingdom on earth that we become too busy to spend quiet time with the Lord in prayer and reflection. The Gospels tell us that Jesus withdrew from the demands of public life to pray and took his closest disciples with him to do the same. Our time of prayer must lead to love and service for our brothers and sisters or else it becomes a comforting fantasy. On the other hand, without frequent refreshment in prayer, we lose touch with the Lord and our true work of collaboration in building God’s kingdom in our lives.

*Lord, open our eyes to human need, our ears to your word and our hearts to ever-greater love.

Tues., Jan. 12: 1 Sam 1:9-20; Mark 1:21-28

2010-01-12T10:50:00.000+08:00

He commands even the unclean spirits and they obey him.

In Jesus’ time, people believed that sickness of mind or body was caused by an evil spirit and was often due to the sufferer’s sins, or even those of their parents. Today we depend on the discoveries of science, but it doesn’t change the fact that those who suffer, and their loved ones, are still focused on seeking a cure. We should remember that Jesus’ healing power is still with us, actualized through the work of those trained to deal with disorders of body, mind or spirit. We cooperate with their help while we continue to trust and praise our Lord. A wise doctor of my acquaintance has a framed proverb hanging above his desk that reads: “I treat. God heals.”

*Lord, heal us and help the healers who are your instruments.

Mon., Jan. 11: 1 Sam 1:1-8; Mark 1:14-20

2010-01-11T10:49:00.000+08:00

The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel. These words might make us think that Lent has arrived early, although the call to repentance and faith is a constant in the Christian life. The post-holiday blahs and midwinter doldrums are here. This is a good time to wake up and invigorate our spiritual lives by taking a quick inventory of our relationship with the Lord. We can ask ourselves: Have the holidays so upset my schedule that I’ve neglected prayer and meditation? Has holiday spending so exceeded my means that I’ve decided to economize by cutting back on donations to those in need? Let us restore sanity and balance to our lives by remembering that Christ’s call to holiness, generosity and love is always in season.

*Speak, Lord, your servant is listening

Sat., Jan. 9: 1 John 5:14-21; John 3:22-30

2010-01-09T10:48:00.000+08:00

Children, be on your guard against idols. I must admit I was a bit shocked by the name of the show “American Idol” when it premiered in 2002. Talent-search shows were nothing new and the show itself didn’t bother me so much, but its name seemed such a brazen rejection of biblical injunctions against idolatry. Of course, our audacious adulation of pop stars and celebrities today also has subtler counterparts. We surround ourselves with golden calves — so much electronic gadgetry, so many ways to entertain ourselves, so much time given to vain pursuits, time we might otherwise give to God in worship and service. What are my idols?

*How can I say no to them and yes to God? For the grace always to put God first in our lives, we pray

Fri., Jan. 8: 1 John 5:5-13; Luke 5: 12-16

2010-01-08T10:47:00.000+08:00

Who is the victor over the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? In a world where vice of every sort still abounds, it’s easy for Christians to get worked up. Indeed, when we look at the world, we may see so many things that stand in opposition to what we value that we feel defeated rather than victorious. After much talk about the marvelous love we share with God and one another through Jesus, John now speaks of faith and its power in our lives. Through his life, death and resurrection, Jesus has won our salvation, and through our faith in him, his victory over sin and death is our victory.

*For faith that emboldens us to face every trial with confidence, we pray.

Thurs., Jan. 7: 1 John 4:19–5:4; Luke 4:14-22a

2010-01-07T10:46:00.000+08:00

This is the commandment we have from him: Those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also. God’s love is generative and organic, inspiring us to love all things in turn. To know God is to love all that God loves and has created. Yet we fool ourselves into thinking otherwise. We make excuses; we see others as not measuring up, not deserving love. We judge their behavior in order to rationalize and justify our own unloving behavior. But there really is no way around it: God has commanded that we love one another, no matter what. Let us distinguish the sin from the sinner when our brothers and sisters behave badly and see that this, in fact, is when they most need for us to be channels of God’s love.

*For the grace to love those who are hard to love, we pray.

Wed., Jan. 6: 1 John 4:11-18; Mark 6:45-52

2010-01-06T10:46:00.000+08:00

There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear.

Fear would seem to be the antithesis of love. Yet fear does have its function. It is a built-in protection mechanism, our innate, common-sense response to danger. But too often we don’t know what to do with fear. We get bogged down in it. We let it fester and morph into anxiety or depression. Adding to our trouble, people play on our fears, magnifying real dangers and manufacturing false ones. Let us use fear as it was intended, by taking it directly to the One who protects us from all harm and gives us confidence to face every threat.

*For the love that drives out fear, we pray.

Tues., Jan. 5: 1 John 4:7-10; Mark 6:34-44

2010-01-05T10:45:00.000+08:00

St. John Neumann, bishop

In this is love: not that we have loved God, but that he loved us.

When I hike in the woods, I often recall the instruction a retreat director gave when he sent his retreatants out to take in the beauty of the retreat center grounds. “Don’t even try to love the Lord,” he would tell them. His hope was that instead they would attend fully to the experience of being loved by God. To give love generously, as God does, we need first to know God, the starting place of all love. When we know deeply, in our bones, how very much our God loves us, our love for others is both natural and spontaneous.

*For deep, abiding knowledge of God’s love for us, we pray.

Mon., Jan. 4: 1 John 3:22–4:6; Matt 4:12-17, 23-25

2010-01-04T10:44:00.000+08:00

Every spirit that acknowledges Jesus Christ come in the flesh belongs to God. In The Holy Longing, Fr. Ronald Rolheiser calls the Incarnation the most “underunderstood” of Christian mysteries. The Incarnation was not “a one-shot incursion by God into human history.” Rather, it is ongoing, an ever-unfolding mystery: God, in the flesh, ever accessible to us now in the community of believers, the body of Christ. The fuller grasp of this mystery is, perhaps, what sets saints apart from the rest of us. Jesus Christ come in the flesh filled St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s mind and heart. But more than this, it permeated her words and her actions. She saw Christ in others; she acted as Christ toward them.

*May we do likewise. For a fuller understanding of God’s marvelous love, we pray.

Sat., Jan. 2: 1 John 2:22-28; John 1:19-28

2010-01-02T10:42:00.000+08:00

Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen, bishops and doctors

And this is the promise that he made us: eternal life.

At this time of year we make many resolutions and implement changes in our lives for self-improvement. So there’s no better time to make or renew our commitment to live in confidence that Jesus is the Christ. We can resolve to reject lies and to denounce those would deceive us. As we enter into new beginnings, we look to what has been true and what we’ve known from the beginning.

*That we may resolve to live what is true, to be faithful to what we have been taught and to remain in him always, we pray.

Thurs., Dec. 31: 1 John 2:18-21; John 1:1-18

2010-01-01T11:21:00.000+08:00

To those who did accept [Jesus] he gave the power to become children of God. Ring out the old; ring in the new! This is traditionally a time to make resolutions, which often involve rooting out a bad habit and replacing it with … what? Often we have no good habit in mind. Let us resolve that in the year to come we will begin each day with a brief prayer, turning our lives over to the Lord and asking for the grace to grow more fully into a son or daughter of God. It sounds safe and simple, but — Beware! God’s delight at our request might lead to quite an adventure.

*Lord, take me as I am; form me into what you want me to be.

Fri., Jan. 1: Num 6:22-27; Gal 4:4-7; Luke 2:16-21

2010-01-01T10:37:00.000+08:00

Mary, Mother of God

The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace!

The words the Lord offers Moses to bless the Israelites are appropriate for all of us as we embark on this new year. The Hebrew word for peace suggests happiness and prosperity. The blessing gives us gentle and comforting images of the Lord smiling and looking kindly on us — of the Lord’s face shining upon us. How God’s face must have shone on Mary when he entrusted her to bear his son! This year, let’s resolve to look gratefully upon the many gifts and blessings we’ve received and to offer a confident yes to every opportunity we have to serve the Lord. Let our actions reflect our desire to bring a smile to God’s face.

*May we praise and glorify God and live each day in amazement at the power and wonders of our Lord, we pray.

Wed., Dec. 30: 1 John 2:12-17; Luke 2:36-40

2009-12-31T11:20:00.000+08:00

The world and its enticements are passing away, but whoever does the will of God remains forever. The world itself is God’s creation, awaiting God’s rule, but John uses "the world" here to mean the domain of Satan. Worldly possessions and attitudes lead us away from God. The Christmas season juxtaposes the image of the Savior as a helpless infant born in a stable, the child of the poor, against the overkill bombast of images touting the glitter of material things. Let us resolve to learn what we can do to heal and preserve our planet and to ensure an equitable distribution of the earth’s resources to all God’s beloved children.

*Lord, grant us your wisdom and your grace that we may grow strong in your service.

Tues., Dec. 29: 1 John 2:3-11; Luke 2:22-35

2009-12-30T11:19:00.000+08:00

Whoever claims to abide in him ought to walk just as he walked. We sought repentance and conversion during Advent. We welcomed the Lord Jesus at Christmas. Now what? Soon the lights and tinsel will be memories, whereas real life, with its everyday challenges and demands, is bearing down on us. How do we keep "that Christmas feeling"? We can’t. It’s as short-lived as wilting Christmas greenery. But how do we keep the Christmas spirit in our hearts and our choices? By remembering John’s sober warning that if we say we walk in the light yet fail to love all people — no exceptions! — as our brothers and sisters, then we’re still in the dark.

*Lord, help me to see with your eyes as I walk by your light.

Mon., Dec. 28: 1 John 1:5–2:2; Matt 2:13-18

2009-12-29T11:18:00.000+08:00

If we say, ‘We are without sin,’ we deceive ourselves. Herod couldn’t risk a challenge to the status quo, even from a tiny baby. Through the ages, the actors and scenery change, but the script is basically the same. The very young, the unborn, the old, the sick and the helpless are all made subject to marginalization, neglect and death, all because they somehow threaten us. We will not trust God and risk alternative solutions to put the lives of the defenseless ahead of our comfort. So we cause or at least silently condone war, famine, abortion, exile, forced marches and genocide. Wake up! As Thomas Merton observed, "There are no innocent bystanders."

*Lord, help me to remember that I am my brother’s and sister’s keeper.

Sat., Dec. 26: Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59; Matt 10:17-22

2009-12-27T11:17:00.000+08:00

They threw him out of the city and began to stone him. Stephen, the first martyr, fully understood the significance of Jesus’ teachings. He followed Jesus’ example and, like Jesus, faced judgment and martyrdom. Also like Jesus, he asked forgiveness for his persecutors. He looked only to heaven for the truth and stood firm in his faith.

*May we have the faith and the strength to do the same, we pray.

Fri., Dec. 25: Christmas Day

2009-12-26T11:16:00.000+08:00

Note other options for readings

And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.

The gift we receive today is the incarnate Word. Our present is his physical presence. The Lord takes his place among his people; our God is visible, approachable, knowable and familiar. He is not merely in the likeness of the human form. He is truly human. In being born of woman and taking the form of our flesh, he experiences and understands our frailty firsthand and shows us how to love each other despite our imperfections and weaknesses. He reveals to us how the Father’s glory, full of grace and truth, can perfectly dwell within the human vessel — the brightest Christmas light, the shiniest package or the most beautiful carol that remains throughout the year. Jesus, our brother, in taking your place as God’s presence among your people, you’ve revealed God’s love and fidelity in a way more real than we could ever imagine. We are grateful for the moments of grace we experience in your presence.

*Amen.

Thurs., Dec. 24: 2 Sam 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16; Luke 1:67-79

2009-12-25T11:15:00.000+08:00

… because of the tender mercy of our God by which the daybreak from on high will visit us to shine on those who sit in darkness and death’s shadow, to guide our feet into the path of peace. What could be more tender or merciful than God’s gift of the Savior to lift us out of darkness, save us from death and give us comfort and peace? This is more than a promise fulfilled; it is freedom, forgiveness, redemption, salvation. It’s the coming of hope.

*The Lord is with us. Alleluia.

Wed., Dec. 23: Mal 3:1-4, 23-24; Luke 1:57-66

2009-12-24T11:13:00.000+08:00

What, then, will this child be? From his infancy it was clear that the hand of the Lord was with John the Baptizer. Though it may not have been immediately clear to those who knew him that he would be the one who would prepare the way for the coming of the Savior, it was obvious to those present at his circumcision that he had a great call. We, too, are called not only during this last week of Advent, but each and every day, to prepare for the coming of Jesus and to go before him to announce his glory. Even if we’ve spent recent days consumed with the trivialities of the season, it’s not too late — it is never too late if we trust in the Lord. Certainly Elizabeth and Zechariah can attest to that!

*Let us profess with confidence and joy, "Yes, the Lord is coming."

Tues., Dec. 22: 1 Sam 1:24-28; Luke 1:46-56

2009-12-23T11:12:00.000+08:00

My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior. Stop. Put down the shopping list. Step away from the baking. Take a deep breath and simply exult in the wonders of the Lord. Enjoy the splendor of God’s favor. Delight in the Lord’s coming. We spend so much time preparing for the holidays that we may let them pass without savoring their message and their meaning. If we don’t take the time to contemplate the joy of this moment and react like Mary in utter exuberance at how blessed we are, then we make this season of grace a time of deadlines and drudgery.

*Let us raise our voices in joyful hymns for God’s wondrous favors, we pray.

Mon., Dec. 21: Song 2:8-14 or Zeph 3:14-18a; Luke 1:39-45

2009-12-22T11:12:00.000+08:00

And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? This week as we look toward Bethlehem, we stand in awe like Elizabeth that we’re worthy to participate in such a miracle. Indeed, who are we that our Lord should come to us? At least Elizabeth understood her kinship to Mary and the familial ties they shared. Most of us merely stand dumbstruck at being among the blessed. Instead of doubting our worth and questioning God’s motives, however, we will be much better served during this time of grace if we look at ourselves and our loved ones gathered around us and try to see each other as God sees us — precious, beloved and infinitely worthy of the best Christmas gift possible, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. O Lord, we’re grateful for the precious gift of your Son. Thank you for considering us worthy.

*Help us to see in ourselves and others what you see and love in us, we pray.

Sat., Dec. 19: Judg 13:2-7, 24-25a; Luke 1:5-25

2009-12-20T11:11:00.000+08:00

How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years. Poor Zechariah! The moral of his story might be: "When the angel of the Lord appears to you, don’t ask questions!" If the Advent and Christmas seasons teach us nothing else, we should at least come away with less cynicism. These are days for pondering the most wonderful stories we know, for telling about how our God is with us. Some say that Christmas is (just) for children. Not so, but we could take a lesson from them, for they have not yet grown jaded with the years. May we use these final days of Advent to recapture our capacity for wonder. O Root of Jesse, come!

*For wonder and awe, we pray.

Fri., Dec. 18: Jer 23:5-8; Matt 1:18-24

2009-12-19T11:09:00.000+08:00

This is the name they give him: ‘The LORD our justice.’ Our anticipation of the Lord’s coming grows. With wonder we recall his birth, yet we long for him to come again, and we pray that he might come to us personally now as we grow in knowledge of his ways. It has been said that we can’t really know Jesus without doing justice. So perhaps justice is the missing piece. We’ve shopped, cooked, decorated and wrapped gifts, but has any of that helped the poor and oppressed? How much have we given to charity, not just of our money, but as a volunteer, offering also our time and our talent? How might we make an ongoing commitment to the poor? O Lord and Ruler of Israel, come!

*For justice, we pray.

Thurs., Dec. 17: Gen 49:2, 8-10; Matt 1:1-17

2009-12-18T11:06:00.000+08:00

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Israel’s history was filled with promise. God promised Abraham countless descendants, a people who would be the source of blessing to all nations. In renewing the covenant with David, God also promised that David’s royal line would be without end. Matthew illustrates how Israel’s history reaches its climax with the fulfillment of all of God’s promises in Jesus — the One through whom all peoples find blessing, the One whose reign is without end. We are the people of God’s promise. When Christ’s love reigns in our hearts, we become instruments of God’s blessing to the world. We pray today: O Wisdom, come, teach us the way of prudence!

*For hope in God’s promises, we pray.

Wed., Dec. 16: Isa 45:6b-8, 18, 21b-25; Luke 7:18-23

2009-12-17T11:05:00.000+08:00

And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me. We all know what it feels like to be disappointed with another person. But if we analyze the situation, often enough we find that in fact we can’t really blame the other person for letting us down. Rather, our own faulty expectations of that person have let us down. Many in Jesus’ day expected a warrior-king Messiah. They were stuck on that image, so they rejected Jesus. Others, however, recognized that this authoritative Teacher and compassionate Healer surpassed all expectations. As we sojourn through this season of anticipation, what are our expectations of Jesus? Do we harbor any illusions based on who we think God should be?

*For humility and openness to Christ, we pray.

Tues., Dec. 15: Zeph 3:1-2, 9-13; Matt 21:28-32

2009-12-16T11:04:00.000+08:00

He said in reply, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he changed his mind and went. We may be among those who readily said "Yes" to Advent when it began, but by now, perhaps, we must admit that we have not followed through. We haven’t changed anything, but instead find ourselves taken in again by the consumerism and greed that co-opt the season each year. Or we may be among those who said "No" to Advent at the start … but now we’re having second thoughts. The good news is that Advent is a standing invitation. Whether we’ve been fickle or slow, there is still time to use this blessed season well, time for loving service to others and prayerful anticipation of our Lord.

*For the grace to turn to God, we pray.

Mon., Dec. 14: Num 24:2-7, 15-17a; Matt 21:23-27

2009-12-15T11:02:00.000+08:00

Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things. Jesus deftly parries the chief priests’ and elders’ questions concerning his authority, countering so as to make them demonstrate their own lack of authority. If they can’t say where John, Jesus’ herald, came from, why should Jesus be obliged to answer them at all? In fact, the chief priests and elders lack the basic attributes that would allow them to accept Jesus’ authority: trust, respect and humility. Instead, fear, arrogance and self-interest motivate them to oppose him. What prevents us from submitting fully to Jesus’ authority? As we anticipate our celebration of the Incarnation, what blocks us from knowing God-with-us more fully?

*For humble deference to Jesus in all things, we pray.

Sat., Dec. 12: Zech 2:14-17; Luke 1:26-38 or Luke 1:39-47 or any readings from the Common of the Blessed Virgin Mary

2009-12-13T11:00:00.000+08:00

How does this happen that the mother of my Lord should come to me? This is Elizabeth’s question when Mary visits her. Perhaps Juan Diego asked the same question. Perhaps Juan’s bishop, who had served the church all his life, asked, "Why him? Why not me?" Mary appeared to Juan Diego not as a European Madonna, but as a beautiful Aztec Princess. And it is she, this Patroness of the Americas, who led millions to Jesus. Perhaps we Catholics in the United States should consider the faith of our neighbors to the south and pray for the grace to receive our Latin American brothers and sisters as friends and models of faith.

*Juan Diego, pray for us.

Fri., Dec. 11: Isa 48:17-19; Matt 11:16-19

2009-12-12T11:00:00.000+08:00

Wisdom is vindicated by her works. Jesus’ critics are going to be unhappy with him no matter what. They call John a demon because he fasted. They call Jesus a glutton because he enjoyed food and drink. In my years on a parish staff I found that critics had a lot of power. Even an anonymous note from an apparent crank could initiate a discussion that lasted way longer than the criticism deserved. If we make our decisions prayerfully, we shouldn’t be swayed by the inevitable critic who won’t be happy no matter what. Meanwhile, be sure to be a person who praises — often and loudly. In everyone’s life it takes a lot of praise to balance the disapproval.

*Jesus, give me the grace to praise and thank others.

Thurs., Dec. 10: Isa 41:13-20; Matt 11:11-15

2009-12-11T10:58:00.000+08:00

The kingdom of heaven suffers violence and the violent are taking it by force. This verse is obscure. The first part is not so difficult to understand. From the Holy Innocents to Calvary, from ancient martyrs to modern ones, the kingdom has suffered violence. But what does it mean that "the violent are taking it by force"? This verse has been used to condone violence on behalf of the kingdom, but I can’t live with that. Perhaps there is violence of a different kind — the violence of Dorothy Day’s "harsh and dreadful love." There is a violence done to our core selfishness when we choose love over all else. It burns us from the inside out and remakes us into a person more like Jesus.

*Jesus, when we pray to be like you, we should tremble at the prospect. Make us brave.

Wed., Dec. 9: Isa 40:25-31; Matt 11:28-30

2009-12-10T10:56:00.000+08:00

Come to me … and I will give you rest. Both readings today refer to weariness and the strength that is available to those who hope in the Lord. Today we remember Juan Diego, canonized in 2002 by John Paul II, whose homily was a moving tribute to the faith of the indigenous people of Mexico. There is conflict today for citizens of the United States. What is to be done about immigrants? What does our faith say? Is the civil law more important to us than the natural law that compels good people to feed their children? Isn’t it possible that the passionate faith of the countrymen and women of Juan Diego might be a source of strength to the world-weary wealthy who have lost hope?

*St. Juan Diego, pray for us.

Tues., Dec. 8: Gen 3:9-15, 20; Eph 1:3-6, 11-12; Luke 1:26-38

2009-12-09T10:53:00.000+08:00

May it be done to me according to your word. Mary the Christbearer is the model for us as Christ-bearers to the world. Whereas she was predisposed to accept God’s plan for her, we struggle — both with knowing that plan and acceding to it. We rarely find ourselves with such a ready "Yes." We add a codicil: "May it be done to me according to your word … as long as your word doesn’t stretch me too much." Pray today for the United States, who claims Mary Immaculate as patron.

*For United States citizens, those who seek refuge within its borders, those who look to the States for justice and those who fear U.S. intervention … for Mary’s protection and guidance, we pray.

Mon., Dec. 7: Isa 35:1-10; Luke 5:17-26

2009-12-08T10:52:00.000+08:00

We have seen incredible things today. Sometimes it’s helpful to imagine oneself as different characters in a Gospel story. In the healing of the paralyzed man we might be Jesus the healer, the afflicted man himself, his resourceful friends who let him down through the roof, the homeowner who is anxious about folks tearing up the roof, the person in the crowd who is finally about to have a long-awaited audience with Jesus when these guys butt in line, the religious leaders who wonder at this itinerant rabbi’s power and audacity. Try telling the story from each character’s point of view and see what lessons emerge.

*Jesus, healer and teacher, show us your way that we may be your presence in the world.

Sat., Dec. 5: Isa 30:19-21, 23-26; Matt 9:35–10:1, 5a, 6-8

2009-12-06T10:51:00.000+08:00

The kingdom of heaven is at hand! In the Lord’s Prayer we say, "Thy kingdom come," and we should be careful to realize that we are praying for a present reality, not something in the far future. We are preparing to celebrate the birth of Jesus, who embodies the rule (kingdom) of God by his perfect submission to God’s will. When we welcome him into our hearts and lives, we are saying, with Mary, "Be it done to me according to your word." Let us use this time of Advent well, to pray and reflect on what needs to change in our attitudes, priorities and choices so that God’s kingdom may be firmly established in us.

*Lord, establish your rule in my heart and my life.

Fri., Dec. 4: Isa 29:17-24; Matt 9:27-31

2009-12-05T10:50:00.000+08:00

The lowly will ever find joy in the Lord. God is the one gift-giver who understands perfectly our fondest dream, our deepest need and our perfect fit. What we seek may be unfolded slowly or granted in an unexpected way, but God’s gift will never, never disappoint us. God gives us Jesus, the first Christmas gift, the gift that can always be opened further to reveal new wonders. Nothing we do or say can entitle us to this; it comes freely from God’s love. Let us call on the Lord, in faith and humility, for the grace to become more like Jesus and to grow into the loving, forgiving, generous persons we are called to be.

* Lord, we ask in faith to be made worthy to dwell in your kingdom

Thurs., Dec. 3: Isa 26:1-6; Matt 7:21, 24-27

2009-12-04T10:47:00.000+08:00

Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. Many find preparing for Christmas painful. It’s hard even to say "Lord, Lord" if we are mourning a lost loved one or have no family or job or money or home. But the Child in the manger is also the Man on the cross. Jesus came to take away our sin, bear our pain, show us God’s everlasting love for us and teach us that God’s will for us on earth is to love each other and show it by helping to bear each other’s burdens.

*Lord, teach us to love one another, especially those in any need.

Wed., Dec. 2: Isa 25:6-10a; Matt 15:29-37

2009-12-03T10:46:00.000+08:00

Great crowds came to him, having with them the lame, the blind, the deformed, the mute … and he cured them. Jesuit scripture scholar Fr. Dennis Hamm has observed that the healing stories in the synoptic Gospels are parables about Jesus’ saving ministry. Consider the majority of the bodily ailments mentioned and their spiritual counterparts: the lame in body and those who have difficulty moving toward God; those who are blind or deaf in body or in spirit; the physically mute and those who cannot speak to God or about God to others. Advent is when we prepare for Christmas, when heaven’s gates are opened and healing Love comes down.

*Lord, heal us that we may see your goodness, hear your word, proclaim you to others and run joyfully to do your will.

Tues., Dec. 1: Isa 11:1-10; Luke 10:21-24

2009-12-02T10:42:00.000+08:00

He shall judge the poor with justice, and decide aright for the land’s afflicted. During the getting-the-jump-on-Christmas marathon of busyness let’s remember that it’s Advent — time to prepare our minds and hearts to welcome Jesus. In these economically troubled times, might we consider giving first to those whose financial problems may be worse than ours? Consider getting all members of the family involved in the parish Christmas outreach program or making Christmas cards for the chronically ill at local hospitals or nursing homes, especially those who have no family. Remember, it’s much easier to find the Holy Family at a homeless center than at a department store or office Christmas party.

*Come, Lord Jesus, show us your face in the faces of the poor and lonely among us.

Mon., Nov. 30: Rom 10:9-18; Matt 4:18-22

2009-12-01T12:48:00.000+08:00

At once they left their nets and followed him. The call of discipleship didn’t end with the apostles. It isn’t that fewer people are being called to vocations. The difference lies in the willingness to walk away from our distractions. We have ourselves so tangled in the nets of our lives and society that it’s very hard to escape. We all are invited to share in Jesus’ work in a unique and personal way. It’s time to free ourselves from whatever net traps us and heed the call.

*Jesus, we long to follow you; show us the way, we pray.

Sat., Nov. 28: Dan 7:15-27; Luke 21:34-36

2009-11-29T12:47:00.000+08:00

… And that day catch you by surprise like a trap. Anyone who attends to the word of the Lord should be well aware that we have had fair notice to be watchful for the appearance of the Son of Man. We also know how impatient and distractible most of us are and how easy it is to allow our thoughts to stray to the trivialities of daily life. Only through a constant dialogue of prayer can we lessen the trap of how daily anxieties sidetrack us and not be caught off-guard.

*Gentle Jesus, lighten our hearts so that we may focus on you, we pray.

Fri., Nov. 27: Dan 7:2-14; Luke 21:29-33

2009-11-28T12:46:00.000+08:00

… Know that the kingdom of God is near. We like to make plans for the future. We ask children what they want to be when they grow up. We live for tomorrow with little time for the gift of today. We do the same with our views of faith and salvation. We speak of the time many years from now when we will die and, by God’s grace, go to heaven. In doing so we fail to recognize an obvious and fundamental truth of our faith — the reign of God is at hand, if we only work to bring it about. We must focus on how the kingdom is already in our midst and live in a way that helps others see it as well.

*O Lord, show us the way to accept today as a sign of your kingdom, we pray.

Thurs., Nov. 26: Dan 6:12-28; Luke 21:20-28

2009-11-27T12:45:00.000+08:00

… And he fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him. Amid the celebrations of family, friends and food on Thanksgiving Day, let us be ever mindful that the plentiful gifts we celebrate and share are only possible through the love and goodness of God. The greatest show of gratitude that we can offer is to reach out to those who experience suffering and want while so many others overindulge, or to offer companionship to those who suffer loneliness while so many others squeeze into crowded and joyous homes. If we are truly grateful we’ll do all that we can to ensure that all God’s children experience the loving abundance of God.

*Generous Lord, give us the grace to show our gratitude today and every day, we pray.

Wed., Nov. 25: Dan 5:1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28; Luke 21:12-19

2009-11-26T12:44:00.000+08:00

… For I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking. Many Christians, despite a firm belief in God, dismiss their personal role in evangelization. They fear their own limited grasp of theology or their lack of experience talking in front of others. Indeed, one of the greatest fears among adults is public speaking — adds to that the often private and very personal topic of speaking of faith, and most quickly and quietly shrinks into the background. Thus we begin to view the task of professing God’s word as the sole domain of those called to religious vocations. While there are many excellent preachers, we all have a story of faith and trust in the Lord’s role in our lives that can be of hope or inspiration to others. Profess the Lord’s goodness. You never know how God will speak through your voice.

*Lord, open our hearts and our mouths to profess your greatness before all, we pray.

Tues., Nov. 24: Dan 2:31-45; Luke 21:5-11

2009-11-25T12:42:00.000+08:00

See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and ‘The time has come.’ Do not follow them! There is no question that we must make sacrifices to follow the Lord. Does what we surrender bring joy or grumbling? We’re often weak and fearful. We doubt our ability to emulate the Lord’s great sacrifice and, truthfully, most of us dread being called upon to do so. Andrew Dung-Lac, priest and martyr, and his companions paid dearly for following the one true God. Between 1820 and 1862, over 130,000 Christians suffered martyrdom in Vietnam. Later 117 martyrs were canonized and represented countless other unnamed individuals who followed the same agonizing path, in life and in death, of Jesus Christ, the king of the martyrs. They would not be deceived, even if it meant persecution and death. Truly our sacrifices are miniscule in comparison. Let’s hope, however, that our fervor to follow the Lord isn’t.

*Give us the strength, O God, to follow your will for our lives, we pray.

Mon., Nov. 23: Dan 1:1-6, 8-20; Luke 21:1-4

2009-11-24T12:41:00.000+08:00

… And he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. As we enter into the holiday season, despite our best efforts it’s easy to get carried away in consumerism. When our mood is light, a little splurging here and there seems reasonable and deserved. It’s important for us to remember that some people, like the widow, are so poor that splurging isn’t an option. We must come to know dependence on what will truly lighten our mood and our burden — dependence on the Lord and complete trust in his ability to provide what we truly need. Few of us need more things, but we could all rely more on God to understand how truly blessed we are.

*That we may forego the temptation of the fleeting excesses of this life, we pray.

Sat., Nov. 21: 1 Macc 6:1-13; Luke 20:27-40

2009-11-22T12:40:00.000+08:00

And he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive. In response to the ridiculous hypothetical situation presented by the Sadducees, Jesus points to scriptural evidence of the resurrection of the dead: Moses’ encounter with the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob — ancestors gone from this life but still very much alive with God. Of course, we know the rest of the story: Jesus himself is the resurrection. In him, we have already begun to live the resurrected life. As we say in prayer when a loved one dies, life is changed, not ended. While we cannot yet know the fullness of heaven, we have every reason to hope for it, and, in the meantime, to work for the fullness of God’s kingdom on earth.

*For trust in God’s promise of eternal life, we pray.

Fri., Nov. 20: 1 Macc 4:36-37, 52-59; Luke 19:45-48

2009-11-21T12:38:00.000+08:00

And every day he was teaching in the temple area. Today’s readings center on characters demonstrating zeal for the temple. The first reading commemorates the institution of the feast of Hanukkah. The temple, having been occupied and desecrated by invaders, is regained by Israel. The joyful, eight-day celebration of its purification and rededication is to be remembered as an annual celebration. Jesus purifies the temple, too, by driving out those who have reduced it to a marketplace. Do we have this sort of zeal for our place of worship? Do we protect it from those who might like to use it as a multipurpose facility? Do we resist those who suggest we can legitimately, for convenience’s sake, hijack the liturgical assembly — people who have come to church to pray — to do business?

*For respect for God’s house and God’s people, we pray.

Thurs., Nov. 19: 1 Macc 2:15-29; Luke 19:41-44

2009-11-19T19:55:00.000+08:00

The days will come when … your enemies … will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. Life is full of reasons to give thanks, to rejoice and to stand in awe of God’s power and goodness. But life can turn on a dime. It also brings us experiences of unspeakable suffering and grief, days of sorrow or even despair, encounters with inexplicable evil — what theologian Edward Schillebeeckx calls “contrast experiences” because they differ so radically from our experiences of God’s goodness and love. Ironically, such contrast experiences have unique revelatory power. Jesus is headed toward Jerusalem and the cross, the quintessential contrast experience. His disciples’ experience of him will be turned on its head, their understanding broken wide open.

*He tells them to pay attention. For the grace to find God in all circumstances, we pray.

Wed., Nov. 18: 2 Macc 7:1, 20-31; Luke 19:11-28

2009-11-18T19:54:00.000+08:00

With your own words I shall condemn you, you wicked servant. The heartless execution of seven brothers before their mother (today’s first reading) illustrates pure wickedness. But the description “wicked” seems a bit harsh for the poor fellow in Jesus’ parable, doesn’t it? Surely we could ascribe various unflattering labels to him: stupid, lazy, irresponsible. But wicked? Perhaps we need to consider how both evil and goodness grow and evolve. Evil often begins with what seem mild offenses, little omissions, wrongs so small that we readily excuse ourselves for committing them. But each one adds grease to an increasingly slippery slope. Conversely, when we take what we have been given, little though it might be, and use it conscientiously and well, remarkable good can result.

*For gratitude and diligence in serving the Lord, we pray.

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2009-11-18T19:32:00.000+08:00

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Tues., Nov. 17: 2 Macc 6:18-31; Luke 19:1-10

2009-11-17T19:51:00.000+08:00

So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree in order to see Jesus, who was about to pass that way. Today’s readings present two models of faith, Eleazar and Zacchaeus. In 2 Maccabees, we find the aged Eleazar under persecution for his faith. When offered the chance to avoid torture and death, he refuses, finding the cost — a subterfuge that could lead others astray — unacceptable. In the Gospel, Zacchaeus overcomes the problem of his small stature by climbing a tree to see Jesus. Later, when Jesus is criticized for associating with him, Zacchaeus pledges in real, tangible terms to reform his ways. What challenges to our faith will we encounter today? What creativity or virtue will we need to remain true to Jesus?

*For the integrity and zeal of faithful disciples, we pray.

Mon., Nov. 16: 1 Macc 1:10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-63; Luke 18:35-43

2009-11-16T19:50:00.000+08:00

Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me! Sometimes, like the blind man, we have a hard time getting through to Jesus. But those who rebuke and try to silence us are likely members of our own interior committee: subtle inner voices that tell us prayer is useless or we don’t deserve the Lord’s special attention. But, as with the blind man, faith can empower us to overcome such opposition to reaching the Lord. Like the Maccabees (whose story we will hear in the first reading throughout this week), we also face great opposition from outside sources, particularly from a culture that calls us to make idols of everything: food, money, sex, celebrities … everything but God. May our faith be strong and zealous, keeping us steadfast in the Lord.

*For faith that saves, we pray.

Sat., Nov. 14: Wis 18:14-16; 19:6-9; Luke 18:1-8

2009-11-15T04:25:00.000+08:00

Pray always without becoming weary. We sometimes feel that we pray and pray but God doesn’t answer. We’ve all heard the unhelpful words, “God always answers, but sometimes God says ‘No.’ ” Actually, when what we seek is for God’s glory and the good of the one we pray for, God always says “Yes” — but in God’s time, not ours (we usually want results “immediately, if not sooner”). We should meditate prayerfully on today’s parable. The judge was not a nice person, much less a good one. Yet he granted the widow’s request just to get rid of her. Surely our Lord will do much better and meet every need of ours and our loved ones, but according to God’s timing and by God’s chosen means.

*Lord, you show such great patience with me. Help me to have a little patience with you.

Fri., Nov. 13: Wis 13:1-9; Luke 17:26-37

2009-11-14T04:24:00.000+08:00

Frances Xavier Cabrini, virgin (USA)

For from the greatness and the beauty of created things their original author is seen. Wake up! Pay attention! All creation shows us the image of the Author of creation. Jesus warns us to remain alert for the time of judgment. These words not only refer to the Last Judgment but also to the judgment each of us will undergo at the end of earthly life. We humans show forth the image of God. When Jesus looks into my soul, will he see that image of divine mercy and love, polished by my choices? Or dulled and distorted, perhaps beyond recognition, by sin or simply by laziness?

*Lord, help me to live each moment of my life so that I need not fear the moment when I meet you face to face.

Thurs., Nov. 12: Wis 7:22b–8:1; Luke 17:20-25

2009-11-13T04:21:00.000+08:00

Josaphat, bishop, martyr

The coming of the kingdom of God cannot be observed. … For behold, the kingdom of God is among you. A challenging yet comforting statement. God’s kingdom is among (some translations read “within”) us, a work in progress. God builds us into his image by making us collaborators in his work. We must not spend so much time meditating on heaven that we neglect persons and situations we encounter every day. We must not regard any good work we are able to do for those in need as too insignificant to claim our attention. In heaven’s economy, no good work that alleviates human need or protects the earth’s well-being should be considered trivial, nor need it distract us from God, who is here, working through us.

*Lord, lift my praising heart to you and my helping hand to my neighbor.

Wed., Nov. 11: Wis 6:1-11; Luke 17:11-19

2009-11-12T04:20:00.000+08:00

Martin of Tours, bishop

Judgment is stern for the exalted. Most of us would say, “I’m OK then. I’m not in a position of power.” Wrong. Nearly all of us, at some time, have the power to help someone stay on the Lord’s path. The effectiveness of our witness to the truth is greatly helped by a humble and empathetic manner. We are in this life to learn how to love God and one another, and God’s judgment of our lives will be based on this. Holy wisdom is God’s gift, to be shared by all. None of us owns it or has the right to lord it over our fellow travelers on the Way.

*Lord, when I assist one who is seeking to know your truth, help me always to treat the seeker as I would wish to be treated.

Tues., Nov. 10: Wis 2:23–3:9; Luke 17:7-10

2009-11-11T05:09:00.000+08:00

Leo the Great, pope, doctor of the church

As gold in the furnace he proved them, and as sacrificial offerings he took them to himself. A friend once observed, regarding the Christian life, “The working conditions can sometimes be appalling, but the retirement benefits are awesome.” Today’s rather sobering Gospel passage reminds us that we can never put the Lord in our debt by doing more than God deserves. When prayerful discernment shows us that our duty requires a difficult, even dangerous task, faith assures us that we will receive the necessary grace. Not only that, we can be certain that God cannot be outdone in generosity. Even for doing “only” what we are obliged to do; we will be rewarded beyond our wildest hopes and dreams.

*Lord, thank you for calling me to your service. Use me according to your will.

Mon., Nov. 9: Ezek 47:1-2, 8-9, 12; 1 Cor 3:9c-11, 16-17; John 2:13-22

2009-11-10T05:07:00.000+08:00

The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome

Do you not know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? The Basilica of St. John Lateran was once the papal residence and is still the official parish church of the pope (not St. Peter’s Basilica). Although sacred spaces like this are very important, God likes best to dwell in us. St. Paul reminds us that we are being formed into a dwelling place for God on earth. Is it time for me to clean house for my divine guest? Are my values, priorities and behaviors such that the Lord will feel comfortable?

* Lord, make me a welcoming home for you, where all can come and experience peace in your merciful and loving presence.

Sat., Nov. 7: Rom 16:3-9, 16, 22-27; Luke 16:9-15

2009-11-08T06:15:00.000+08:00

You cannot serve God and mammon. “Mammon” is literally “that in which one trusts.” Paul Tillich once wrote that there are no atheists. Everyone has a god — something or someone to whom we give our life. It may be a cause or comfort; power or prominence; religion or riches. Recently I read that there are three questions we should ask the rich, including ourselves as we remember the vast numbers of seriously poor people in the world: 1. Why did you want to be rich? 2. What did you do (and to whom) to get rich? 3. Why are you still rich? I really like — and hate — the third question. What is stopping me from giving it all away? Why do we give ourselves to a god that is not big enough to fully satisfy us?

*Lord Jesus, make me the servant of you and your people and nothing else

Fri., Nov. 6: Rom 15:14-21; Luke 16:1-8

2009-11-07T06:14:00.000+08:00

I know what I shall do. This parable of the dishonest steward should be understood in the light of the Palestinian custom of agents acting on behalf of their masters and charging more of the debtors than was actually owed, thereby earning a neat “commission” for themselves. The steward is commended for giving up his ill-gotten gains in order to ingratiate himself with the debtors and win them as friends after he loses his job. The point of the parable is that we should do what we have to do to gain salvation. Perhaps it might be worthy of note, particularly as we weather this difficult economy, that usury is a sin. Maybe we should mention it once in a while?

*Lord Jesus, make me as canny about getting into heaven as I am about worldly matters.

Thurs., Nov. 5: Rom 14:7-12; Luke 15:1-10

2009-11-06T06:12:00.000+08:00

This man welcomes sinners and eats with them. Either that or eat alone, right? We Christians are so accustomed to calling ourselves sinners — whether we really mean it or not — that we come up with other names for that class of people we deem not quite in our league: liberals, conservatives, hippies, warmongers, welfare leeches, terrorists, trailer trash, rednecks, Ivy League snobs, tree-huggers, rich you-know-whats. Jesus dines with all of them. Sounds like interesting table talk to me. St. Paul asks why we judge others. Lots of reasons, but wouldn’t it be more interesting to come to table with them and chat?

*Lord Jesus, thank you for inviting me to your table … and for all the interesting dinner companions.

Wed., Nov. 4: Rom 13:8-10; Luke 14:25-33

2009-11-05T06:11:00.000+08:00

Owe nothing to anyone, except to love one another. What an interesting juxtaposition of readings today. From the Gospel: “If anyone comes to me without hating his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters … he cannot be my disciple.” St. Paul tells us to love. This might be an opportunity to talk about the difference between “feeling” love and “doing” love. Being “in love” does not put us above the law. Doing the loving thing is what fulfills the law. To do that we have to place Jesus first, even before those he puts on our path to love.

*Lord Jesus, help us to love others by placing you first

Tues., Nov. 3: Rom 12:5-16b; Luke 14:15-24

2009-11-04T06:08:00.000+08:00

Rejoice in hope. The first reading today could serve as the outline for a daily examination of conscience. In just a few short lines, St. Paul summarizes what it is to live as a disciple of Jesus. And who is such a disciple? Anyone who is willing to accept the invitation, just as the parable in today’s Gospel indicates. I wonder how St. Luke’s audience received this parable, gentiles who discover they are in line behind the poor, blind and lame. It reminds me of a little poem, “Company of the Absurd,” in Madeleine L’Engle’s collection of essays The Irrational Season: “I share communion with the halt, / the lame, the blind, oppressed, depressed. / we have, it seems, a common fault / in coming to you to be blessed.” St. Martin de Porres knew this well as he ministered to the least. Lord Jesus, thank you for counting me among your friends.

* May I receive everyone as you receive me?

Mon., Nov. 2: Wis 3:1-9; Rom 5:5-11; John 6:37-40

2009-11-03T06:05:00.000+08:00

The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls)

The souls of the just are in the hands of God: In our parish we have a comforting custom. On the first Sunday of November and on All Souls Day itself, we sing the Litany of Saints as the gathering song. (We prefer the arrangement by John Becker.) After all ministers are in place — having walked slowly, slowly — the accompanist continues as the lector or other minister reads the names of parishioners who have died during the past year. We also issue a holy card with those names. In addition to being a ritualized and very lovely reminder of those who have gone before it us, it’s also comforting to know that when we die, our names will be spoken aloud in church. We all want to be remembered.

*For our loved ones who have died, for those who mourn their passing and for all who are preparing for death, we pray.

Our Daily Bread: Rom 11:1-2a, 11-12, 25-29; Luke 14:1, 7-11

2009-10-31T15:35:00.000+08:00

For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.

Do I hold myself above others because of my nationality, religion, good taste or virtuous life? If I seriously believe that I am intrinsically superior to any of God’s children because of the circumstances of my life, especially my citizenship in God’s kingdom, then I am exalting myself and headed for embarrassment. I need to learn humility, which requires that I discard all masks — Halloween or otherwise — in favor of complete honesty and simple gratitude. All my gifts, especially God’s saving grace, are just that: unearned gifts. Lord, thank you for all your gifts.

*Help me always to use them for your glory and the good of my brothers and sisters.

Our Daily Bread:Rom 9:1-5; Luke 14:1-6

2009-10-30T15:33:00.000+08:00

I have great sorrow and constant anguish in my heart.

In yesterday’s Gospel, Jesus wept over Jerusalem because so many refused his message. Today, Paul anguishes over the rift between followers of Christ and his Jewish kin. If we are truly alert to Jesus’ words, "That all may be one," we too should be earnestly praying and honestly working toward understanding and unity among people of different faiths. Christians are divided into many denominations. Jews are divided from Christians; both are divided from Muslims. Yet all of these faiths worship the one God. Let us pray, study and interact with all men and women of faith to forge paths of understanding and bonds of love.

*Lord, teach us to love all those who love you, for your sake.