iMissal: My Daily Bread Verse

Luke 17:20-21

Asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, he said in reply, "The coming of the kingdom of God cannot be observed, and no one will announce, 'Look, here it is,' or, 'There it is.' For behold, the kingdom of God is among you."

Daily Scripture Reflection

Monday, Sept. 29
Sts. Michael, Gabriel and Raphael

Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14 or Revelation 12:7-12ab; John 1:47-51

Angels are sent to do God's will as his messengers. Do I feel sent in the same way?

Lord, I know you have sent me into this world to spread your good news. Help me to have the courage to step up and fulfill your wishes for me. Never allow me to shy away from spreading your good news.

Readings of The Day's Mass

Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels - Feast


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FIRST READING
Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14

As I watched:

Thrones were set up and the Ancient One took his throne. His clothing was bright as snow, and the hair on his head as white as wool; His throne was flames of fire, with wheels of burning fire. A surging stream of fire flowed out from where he sat; Thousands upon thousands were ministering to him, and myriads upon myriads attended him.

The court was convened, and the books were opened. As the visions during the night continued, I saw

One like a son of man coming, on the clouds of heaven; When he reached the Ancient One and was presented before him, He received dominion, glory, and kingship; nations and peoples of every language serve him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that shall not be taken away, his kingship shall not be destroyed.

or:

Revelation 12:7-12ab

War broke out in heaven;
Michael and his angels battled against the dragon. The dragon and its angels fought back, but they did not prevail and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. The huge dragon, the ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, who deceived the whole world, was thrown down to earth, and its angels were thrown down with it.

Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: "Now have salvation and power come, and the Kingdom of our God and the authority of his Anointed.

For the accuser of our brothers is cast out, who accuses them before our God day and night. They conquered him by the Blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; love for life did not deter them from death. Therefore, rejoice, you heavens, and you who dwell in them."


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 138:1-2ab, 2cde-3, 4-5

R. In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.

I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart, for you have heard the words of my mouth; in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise; I will worship at your holy temple and give thanks to your name.

R. In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.

Because of your kindness and your truth; for you have made great above all things your name and your promise. When I called, you answered me; you built up strength within me.

R. In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.

All the kings of the earth shall give thanks to you, O LORD, when they hear the words of your mouth; And they shall sing of the ways of the LORD: "Great is the glory of the LORD."

R. In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.


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ALLELUIA
Psalm 103:21

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Bless the LORD, all you angels, you ministers, who do his will.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
John 1:47-51

Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, "Here is a true child of Israel. There is no duplicity in him." Nathanael said to him, "How do you know me?" Jesus answered and said to him, "Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree." Nathanael answered him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel." Jesus answered and said to him, "Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this." And he said to him, "Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man."

iMissal: My Daily Bread Verse

John 15:4

Remain in me, as I remain in you. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me.

Daily Scripture Reflection

September 28, 2014
Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time

He said in reply, "I will not," but afterwards he changed his mind and went. (Matthew 21:29)

Thank goodness our God give second chances. And more.
For years I said, "I will not."
Well, I never actually said, "I will not." More like – I am not ready or I am not sure or I think I will hang around the vineyard gate.
I liked God. I was pretty close to him when I was a child. But as I got older, other things took precedence. I prayed to him once in awhile, when I needed something. But there was little worship. No daily prayer. No scripture.
Then I changed my mind.
I will always remember that day, sitting at Mass, with my husband and 2 little boys, suddenly knowing that it was time to commit. I wanted to become Catholic.
To me at the time, it seemed to come out of the blue. But looking back, I can see that there was a lot that happened that led up to that day.
I often feel sad about those days when I did not know God. When I did not worship God. When I did not make Him the Lord of my life.
But then I think about people like St. Augustine. Look at his late conversion and what became of him! "Late have I loved you, O Beauty, ever ancient, ever new."
Look at Paul. Saint Paul.
Maybe some of us have to be later than others. And was I really late?
I have known God in some way all of my life. I have no doubt that he has always been with me. Even when I was avoiding him.
But it seems to me that my whole life has been headed in the same direction – towards God. I know I have made some detours, but God makes straight with crooked lines.
So here I am.
Was I late? Or was I on time?
Does it matter as long as I am with Him now?
God is still calling me into the vineyard. He is calling all of us - with ministries and sacrifices and the little everyday conversions that happen in our lives of faith.
I still avoid those things that scare me a little. I still often say No.
But I hang around that vineyard gate and then I change my mind again.
Praise our God of Second Chances.

Dear Lord, thank you for never giving up on me, for calling me again and again. Thank you for loving me. Amen.

Readings of The Day's Mass

26th Sunday in Ordinary Time; St. Lawrence Ruiz and Companions


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FIRST READING
Ezekiel 18:25 - 28

Thus says the LORD:
You say, "The LORD's way is not fair!" Hear now, house of Israel: Is it my way that is unfair, or rather, are not your ways unfair? When someone virtuous turns away from virtue to commit iniquity, and dies, it is because of the iniquity he committed that he must die. But if he turns from the wickedness he has committed, and does what is right and just, he shall preserve his life; since he has turned away from all the sins that he has committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 25:4 - 5, 6 - 7, 8 - 9 (6a)

R. Remember your mercies, O Lord.

Your ways, O LORD, make known to me; teach me your paths, guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior.

R. Remember your mercies, O Lord.

Remember that your compassion, O LORD, and your love are from of old. The sins of my youth and my frailties remember not; in your kindness remember me, because of your goodness, O LORD.

R. Remember your mercies, O Lord.

Good and upright is the LORD; thus he shows sinners the way. He guides the humble to justice, and teaches the humble his way.

R. Remember your mercies, O Lord.


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SECOND READING
Longer Form Philippians 2:1 - 11

Brothers and sisters:
If there is any encouragement in Christ, any solace in love, any participation in the Spirit, any compassion and mercy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing. Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for his own interests, but also for those of others.

Have in you the same attitude that is also in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

or:

Shorter Form Philippians 2:1 - 5

Brothers and sisters:
If there is any encouragement in Christ, any solace in love, any participation in the Spirit, any compassion and mercy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing. Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for his own interests, but also for those of others.

Have in you the same attitude that is also in Christ Jesus.


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ALLELUIA
John 10:27

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
Matthew 21:28 - 32

Jesus said to the chief priests and elders of the people: "What is your opinion? A man had two sons. He came to the first and said, 'Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.' He said in reply, 'I will not,' but afterwards changed his mind and went. The man came to the other son and gave the same order. He said in reply, 'Yes, sir,' but did not go. Which of the two did his father's will?" They answered, "The first." Jesus said to them, "Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did. Yet even when you saw that, you did not later change your minds and believe him."

iMissal: My Daily Bread Verse

1 Peter 3:21

This prefigured baptism, which saves you now. It is not a removal of dirt from the body but an appeal to God for a clear conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Daily Scripture Reflection

Saturday, Sept. 27
St. Vincent de Paul

Ecclesiastes 11:9-12:8; Luke 9:43b-45

The disciples were afraid to ask Jesus about what he had said to them. When am I afraid to ask Jesus for clarification of his words?

Lord, I read your word but don't always understand how it applies to my life. Help me to better understand your word and to better apply it to my daily life.

Readings of The Day's Mass

Saturday of Week 25; St. Vincent de Paul


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FIRST READING
Ecclesiastes 11:9—12:8

Rejoice, O young man, while you are young and let your heart be glad in the days of your youth. Follow the ways of your heart, the vision of your eyes; Yet understand that as regards all this God will bring you to judgment. Ward off grief from your heart and put away trouble from your presence, though the dawn of youth is fleeting.

Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come And the years approach of which you will say, I have no pleasure in them; Before the sun is darkened, and the light, and the moon, and the stars, while the clouds return after the rain; When the guardians of the house tremble, and the strong men are bent, And the grinders are idle because they are few, and they who look through the windows grow blind; When the doors to the street are shut, and the sound of the mill is low; When one waits for the chirp of a bird, but all the daughters of song are suppressed; And one fears heights, and perils in the street; When the almond tree blooms, and the locust grows sluggish and the caper berry is without effect, Because man goes to his lasting home, and mourners go about the streets; Before the silver cord is snapped and the golden bowl is broken, And the pitcher is shattered at the spring, and the broken pulley falls into the well, And the dust returns to the earth as it once was, and the life breath returns to God who gave it.

Vanity of vanities, says Qoheleth, all things are vanity!


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 90:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14 and 17

R. (1) In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

You turn man back to dust, saying, "Return, O children of men." For a thousand years in your sight are as yesterday, now that it is past, or as a watch of the night.

R. In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

You make an end of them in their sleep; the next morning they are like the changing grass, Which at dawn springs up anew, but by evening wilts and fades.

R. In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart. Return, O LORD! How long? Have pity on your servants!

R. In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

Fill us at daybreak with your kindness, that we may shout for joy and gladness all our days. And may the gracious care of the Lord our God be ours; prosper the work of our hands for us! Prosper the work of our hands!

R. In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.


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ALLELUIA
See 2 Timothy 1:10

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Our Savior Christ Jesus destroyed death and brought life to light through the Gospel.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
Luke 9:43b-45

While they were all amazed at his every deed, Jesus said to his disciples, "Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men." But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.

iMissal: My Daily Bread Verse

Matthew 24:35

Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

Daily Scripture Reflection

Thursday, Sept. 25

Ecclesiastes 1:2-11; Luke 9:7-9

Herod was puzzled by some of the things that he heard being said about Jesus. What puzzles me most about Jesus?

Lord, there are many things about you that I question. Help me to see those questions that are most important for my future and grant me the understanding

Readings of The Day's Mass

Thursday of Week 25; St. Sergius


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FIRST READING
Ecclesiastes 1:2-11

Vanity of vanities, says Qoheleth, vanity of vanities! All things are vanity! What profit has man from all the labor which he toils at under the sun? One generation passes and another comes, but the world forever stays. The sun rises and the sun goes down; then it presses on to the place where it rises. Blowing now toward the south, then toward the north, the wind turns again and again, resuming its rounds. All rivers go to the sea, yet never does the sea become full. To the place where they go, the rivers keep on going. All speech is labored; there is nothing one can say. The eye is not satisfied with seeing nor is the ear satisfied with hearing.

What has been, that will be; what has been done, that will be done. Nothing is new under the sun. Even the thing of which we say, "See, this is new!" has already existed in the ages that preceded us. There is no remembrance of the men of old; nor of those to come will there be any remembrance among those who come after them.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 90:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14 and 17bc

R. (1) In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

You turn man back to dust, saying, "Return, O children of men." For a thousand years in your sight are as yesterday, now that it is past, or as a watch of the night.

R. In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

You make an end of them in their sleep; the next morning they are like the changing grass, Which at dawn springs up anew, but by evening wilts and fades. R. In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart. Return, O LORD! How long? Have pity on your servants!

R. In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

Fill us at daybreak with your kindness, that we may shout for joy and gladness all our days. Prosper the work of our hands for us! Prosper the work of our hands!

R. In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.


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ALLELUIA
John 14:6

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

I am the way and the truth and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father except through me.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
Luke 9:7-9

Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, "John has been raised from the dead"; others were saying, "Elijah has appeared"; still others, "One of the ancient prophets has arisen." But Herod said, "John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?" And he kept trying to see him.

iMissal: My Daily Bread Verse

John 10:16

I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. These also I must lead, and they will hear my voice, and there will be one flock, one shepherd.

Daily Scripture Reflection

Wednesday, Sept. 24

Proverbs 30:5-9; Luke 9:1-6

Jesus tells us that all we need are the essentials when we set out to spread his Good News. What do I carry with me that weighs me down when I proclaim the word of God?

Lord, I have so many attachments to this world. Help me to surrender these attachments when they get in the way of spreading your Good News. Grant me the courage to set aside all that comes between me and your Word.

Readings of The Day's Mass

Wednesday of Week 25; St. Thecla


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FIRST READING
Proverbs 30:5-9

Every word of God is tested;
he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Add nothing to his words, lest he reprove you, and you will be exposed as a deceiver.

Two things I ask of you, deny them not to me before I die: Put falsehood and lying far from me, give me neither poverty nor riches; provide me only with the food I need; Lest, being full, I deny you, saying, "Who is the LORD?" Or, being in want, I steal, and profane the name of my God.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 119:29, 72, 89, 101, 104, 163

R. (105) Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet.

Remove from me the way of falsehood, and favor me with your law.

R. Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet.

The law of your mouth is to me more precious than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

R. Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet.

Your word, O LORD, endures forever; it is firm as the heavens.

R. Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet.

From every evil way I withhold my feet, that I may keep your words.

R. Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet.

Through your precepts I gain discernment; therefore I hate every false way.

R. Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet.

Falsehood I hate and abhor; your law I love.

R. Your word, O Lord, is a lamp for my feet.


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ALLELUIA
Mark 1:15

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

The Kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the Gospel.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
Luke 9:1-6

Jesus summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. He said to them, "Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money, and let no one take a second tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there and leave from there. And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them." Then they set out and went from village to village proclaiming the good news and curing diseases everywhere.

iMissal: My Daily Bread Verse

Luke 12:15

Then he said to the crowd, "Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one's life does not consist of possessions."

Daily Scripture Reflection

Monday, Sept. 22

Proverbs 3:27-34; Luke 8:16-18

Jesus warns us that trying to hide our good or bad deeds will never work. What bad deeds do I most wish to hide?

Lord, there are things that I would rather not have known about me. Things I have done and things that I have not done. Grant me the strength to allow all that I do, bad and good, to be open for all to see.

Readings of The Day's Mass

Monday of Week 25; St. Thomas of Villanova


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FIRST READING
Proverbs 3:27-34

Refuse no one the good on which he has a claim when it is in your power to do it for him. Say not to your neighbor, "Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give," when you can give at once.

Plot no evil against your neighbor, against one who lives at peace with you. Quarrel not with a man without cause, with one who has done you no harm.

Envy not the lawless man and choose none of his ways: To the LORD the perverse one is an abomination, but with the upright is his friendship.

The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked, but the dwelling of the just he blesses; When dealing with the arrogant, he is stern, but to the humble he shows kindness.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 15:2-3a, 3bc-4ab, 5

R. (1) The just one shall live on your holy mountain, O Lord.

He who walks blamelessly and does justice; who thinks the truth in his heart and slanders not with his tongue.

R. The just one shall live on your holy mountain, O Lord.

Who harms not his fellow man, nor takes up a reproach against his neighbor; By whom the reprobate is despised, while he honors those who fear the LORD.

R. The just one shall live on your holy mountain, O Lord.

Who lends not his money at usury and accepts no bribe against the innocent. He who does these things shall never be disturbed.

R. The just one shall live on your holy mountain, O Lord.


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ALLELUIA
Matthew 5:16

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
Luke 8:16-18

Jesus said to the crowd:
"No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light. Take care, then, how you hear. To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away."

iMissal: My Daily Bread Verse

Luke 11:1-4

He was praying in a certain place, and when he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray just as John taught his disciples."  He said to them, "When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come.  Give us each day our daily bread and forgive us our sins for we ourselves forgive everyone in debt to us, and do not subject us to the final test."

Daily Scripture Reflection

September 21, 2014
Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Am I not free to do as I wish with my own money? Are you envious because I am generous? (Matthew 20:15)

Some people have a hard time with this parable. On the surface, it seems so unfair that the landowner pays the workers who show up at the last minute the same as the ones who have been there all day.
But God does not think the way that we think.

"As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways above your ways and my thoughts above your thoughts." (Isaiah 55:9)

This parable is not about fairness. This parable is about God's abundant love and and generosity.
And let's not miss the good news in this story - we are ALL recipients of this love and generosity. All of us.
Where we make our mistake is thinking that we deserve heaven. We think we earn our way into heaven by being good.
Salvation is not earned. Salvation is not deserved. Salvation is a gift.
Sometimes I have heard people ask, what good is it for us to be faithful our whole lives if we can just make a deathbed confession and be saved?
I think of the parable of the Prodigal Son. The older brother asks his father the same kind of question. And I remember this beautiful statement made by the father -
Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.
Those who come to the vineyard earlier have had a life filled with God's love and graces. They are always with Him. St. Catherine of Siena said it well when she said that "all the way to heaven is heaven."
I myself am a prodigal daughter returned. I only wish I had come home to the Father earlier.

Dear Lord, help me to pray for those who have not yet come to work at your vineyard. Help me to welcome all who come, early or late. Thank you, Lord, for all the graces you have given me, undeserved as they are. Amen.

Bishop Kohn Ayah installed Bishop of Uyo Catholic Diocese

It was a joyful sunny Saturday morning, as all came from from far and near, travelling some tens and hundreds of kilometres, to witness the installation ceremony of His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. John Ebene Ayah, as the Local Ordinary of the Catholic Diocese of Uyo.

The See of Uyo, which had been without a Local Ordinary for a period nearing sixteen months, rejoiced like a newly wedded bride re-uniting with her groom.

Bishop John Ayah was before now the Bishop of Ogoja Catholic Diocese, Northern Cross River State.

Readings of The Day's Mass

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time; Saint Matthew


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FIRST READING
Isaiah 55:6 - 9

Seek the LORD while he may be found, call him while he is near. Let the scoundrel forsake his way, and the wicked his thoughts; let him turn to the LORD for mercy; to our God, who is generous in forgiving. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the LORD. As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways above your ways and my thoughts above your thoughts.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 145:2 - 3, 8 - 9, 17 - 18 (18a)

R. The Lord is near to all who call upon him.

Every day will I bless you, and I will praise your name forever and ever. Great is the LORD and highly to be praised; his greatness is unsearchable.

R. The Lord is near to all who call upon him.

The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness. The LORD is good to all and compassionate toward all his works.

R. The Lord is near to all who call upon him.

The LORD is just in all his ways and holy in all his works. The LORD is near to all who call upon him, to all who call upon him in truth.

R. The Lord is near to all who call upon him.


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SECOND READING
Philippians 1:20c - 24, 27a

Brothers and sisters:
Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me life is Christ, and death is gain. If I go on living in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. And I do not know which I shall choose. I am caught between the two. I long to depart this life and be with Christ, for that is far better. Yet that I remain in the flesh is more necessary for your benefit.

Only, conduct yourselves in a way worthy of the gospel of Christ.


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ALLELUIA
see Acts 16:14b

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Open our hearts, O Lord, to listen to the words of your Son.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
Matthew 20:1 - 16a

Jesus told his disciples this parable:
"The kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out at dawn to hire laborers for his vineyard. After agreeing with them for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard. Going out about nine o'clock, the landowner saw others standing idle in the marketplace, and he said to them, 'You too go into my vineyard, and I will give you what is just.' So they went off. And he went out again around noon, and around three o'clock, and did likewise. Going out about five o'clock, the landowner found others standing around, and said to them, 'Why do you stand here idle all day?' They answered, 'Because no one has hired us.' He said to them, 'You too go into my vineyard.' "When it was evening the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, 'Summon the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and ending with the first.' When those who had started about five o'clock came, each received the usual daily wage. So when the first came, they thought that they would receive more, but each of them also got the usual wage. And on receiving it they grumbled against the landowner, saying, 'These last ones worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us, who bore the day's burden and the heat.' He said to one of them in reply, 'My friend, I am not cheating you. Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? Take what is yours and go. What if I wish to give this last one the same as you? Or am I not free to do as I wish with my own money? Are you envious because I am generous?' "Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last."

iMissal: My Daily Bread Verse

Luke 6:38

"Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you."

Daily Scripture Reflection

Monday, Sept. 15
Our Lady of Sorrows

1 Corinthians 11:17-26, 33; John 19:25-27 or Luke 2:33-35

What sorrow do I most need Mary's help with?

Lord, there are many sorrows in my life. Some are easier than others to accept. Help me to understand those that I am in most need of help with accepting. Grant me the grace to accept all sorrows in loving partnership with you.

Readings of The Day's Mass

Our Lady of Sorrows


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FIRST READING
Hebrews5:7-9

In the days when Christ was in the flesh, he offered prayers and supplications with loud cries and tears to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered; and when he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 31:2 and 3b, 3cd-4, 5-6, 15-16, 20

R. Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.

In you, O LORD, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame. In your justice rescue me, make haste to deliver me!

R. Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.

Be my rock of refuge, a stronghold to give me safety. You are my rock and my fortress; for your name's sake you will lead and guide me.

R. Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.

You will free me from the snare they set for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hands I commend my spirit; you will redeem me, O LORD, O faithful God.

R. Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.

But my trust is in you, O LORD, I say, "You are my God." In your hands is my destiny; rescue me from the clutches of my enemies and my persecutors.

R. Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.

How great is your goodness, O LORD, which you have in store for those who fear you, And which, toward those who take refuge in you, you show in the sight of the children of men.

R. Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.


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ALLELUIA

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Blessed are you, O Virgin Mary; without dying you won the martyr's crown beneath the Cross of the Lord.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
John 19:25-27

Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved he said to his mother, "Woman, behold, your son." Then he said to the disciple, "Behold, your mother." And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.

or:

Luke 2:33-35

Jesus' father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, "Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted and you yourself a sword will pierce so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed."

My Daily Bread Verse

Romans 8:31

What then shall we say to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Daily Scripture Reflection

September 14, 2014
Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. - John 3:16

A little boy came into the parish office one day. His mother was talking to the pastor and he was in the waiting room, looking a bit uncomfortable and nervous.
So first I did what any self-respecting parish secretary would do. I offered chocolate.
That brought a smile.
And then I asked him what he liked to do. And he started telling me about his favorite toys and games.
Then suddenly he looked up and saw the crucifix on the wall. And he asked, very seriously, "Why did Jesus have to die like that?"
"To show us how much he loves us," I told him.
"It hurt him a lot, didn't it?"
"Yes, it hurt very much.
"He didn't have to die like that, did he?"
"No, he could have walked away."
"But he loves us, right?"
"Yes. Very much. All the time. No matter what."
He was pretty satisfied with that, and feeling better, we went on to talk about other things that little boys like to talk about. Games and tv shows and favorite toys, etc.
But for those few minutes, we were not little boy and old parish secretary lady. We were just two people, wondering why Jesus loves us that much, and very grateful that he does.

Dear Lord, thank you for loving us, no matter what we do or who we are. And thank you for bringing different people into our lives who help us to see and know your love in many ways. Amen.

Readings of The Day's Mass

The Exaltation of the Holy Cross - Feast


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FIRST READING
Numbers 21:4b - 9

With their patience worn out by the journey, the people complained against God and Moses, "Why have you brought us up from Egypt to die in this desert, where there is no food or water? We are disgusted with this wretched food!"

In punishment the LORD sent among the people saraph serpents, which bit the people so that many of them died. Then the people came to Moses and said, "We have sinned in complaining against the LORD and you. Pray the LORD to take the serpents from us." So Moses prayed for the people, and the LORD said to Moses, "Make a saraph and mount it on a pole, and if any who have been bitten look at it, they will live." Moses accordingly made a bronze serpent and mounted it on a pole, and whenever anyone who had been bitten by a serpent looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 78:1bc - 2, 34 - 35, 36 - 37, 38 (see 7b)

R. Do not forget the works of the Lord!

Hearken, my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in a parable, I will utter mysteries from of old.

R. Do not forget the works of the Lord!

While he slew them they sought him and inquired after God again, Remembering that God was their rock and the Most High God, their redeemer.

R. Do not forget the works of the Lord!

But they flattered him with their mouths and lied to him with their tongues, Though their hearts were not steadfast toward him, nor were they faithful to his covenant.

R. Do not forget the works of the Lord!

But he, being merciful, forgave their sin and destroyed them not; Often he turned back his anger and let none of his wrath be roused.

R. Do not forget the works of the Lord!


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SECOND READING
Philippians 2:6 - 11

Brothers and sisters:
Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.


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ALLELUIA
John 10:27

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you, because by your Cross you have redeemed the world.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
John 3:13 - 17

Jesus said to Nicodemus:
"No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life."

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.

iMissal: My Daily Bread Verse

1 John 3:8

Whoever sins belongs to the devil, because the devil has sinned from the beginning. Indeed, the Son of God was revealed to destroy the works of the devil.

Daily Scripture Reflection

Friday, Sept. 12
The Most Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary

1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22b-27; Luke 6:39-42

Which of my own faults do I turn a blind eye to?

Lord, it is hard to look at myself and see my own faults. Help me to better understand what personal faults get in the way of my seeing clearly. Never let me think I am perfect and without fault.

Readings of The Day's Mass

Friday of Week 23; Most Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary


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FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22b-27

Brothers and sisters:
If I preach the Gospel, this is no reason for me to boast, for an obligation has been imposed on me, and woe to me if I do not preach it! If I do so willingly, I have a recompense, but if unwillingly, then I have been entrusted with a stewardship. What then is my recompense? That, when I preach, I offer the Gospel free of charge so as not to make full use of my right in the Gospel.

Although I am free in regard to all, I have made myself a slave to all so as to win over as many as possible. I have become all things to all, to save at least some. All this I do for the sake of the Gospel, so that I too may have a share in it.

Do you not know that the runners in the stadium all run in the race, but only one wins the prize? Run so as to win. Every athlete exercises discipline in every way. They do it to win a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one. Thus I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight as if I were shadowboxing. No, I drive my body and train it, for fear that, after having preached to others, I myself should be disqualified.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 84:3, 4, 5-6, 12

R. (2) How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord, mighty God!

My soul yearns and pines for the courts of the LORD. My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.

R. How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord, mighty God!

Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest in which she puts her young— Your altars, O LORD of hosts, my king and my God!

R. How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord, mighty God!

Blessed they who dwell in your house! continually they praise you. Blessed the men whose strength you are! their hearts are set upon the pilgrimage.

R. How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord, mighty God!

For a sun and a shield is the LORD God; grace and glory he bestows; The LORD withholds no good thing from those who walk in sincerity.

R. How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord, mighty God!


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ALLELUIA
See John 17:17b, 17a

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Your word, O Lord, is truth; consecrate us in the truth.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
Luke 6:39-42

Jesus told his disciples a parable:
"Can a blind person guide a blind person? Will not both fall into a pit? No disciple is superior to the teacher; but when fully trained, every disciple will be like his teacher. Why do you notice the splinter in your brother's eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own? How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me remove that splinter in your eye,' when you do not even notice the wooden beam in your own eye? You hypocrite! Remove the wooden beam from your eye first; then you will see clearly to remove the splinter in your brother's eye."

Readings of The Day's Mass

The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Feast


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FIRST READING
Micah 5:1-4a

The LORD says:
You, Bethlehem-Ephrathah, too small to be among the clans of Judah, From you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel; Whose origin is from of old, from ancient times. (Therefore the Lord will give them up, until the time when she who is to give birth has borne, And the rest of his brethren shall return to the children of Israel.) He shall stand firm and shepherd his flock by the strength of the LORD, in the majestic name of the LORD, his God; And they shall remain, for now his greatness shall reach to the ends of the earth; he shall be peace.

or:

Romans 8:28-30

Brothers and sisters:
We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. For those he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined he also called; and those he called he also justified; and those he justified he also glorified.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 13:6ab, 6c

R. With delight I rejoice in the Lord.

Though I trusted in your mercy, let my heart rejoice in your salvation.

R. With delight I rejoice in the Lord.

Let me sing of the LORD, "He has been good to me."

R. With delight I rejoice in the Lord.


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ALLELUIA

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Blessed are you, holy Virgin Mary, deserving of all praise; from you rose the sun of justice, Christ our God.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
Longer Form Matthew 1:1-16, 18-23

The Book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.

Abraham became the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers. Judah became the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar. Perez became the father of Hezron, Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab. Amminadab became the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon, Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab. Boaz became the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth. Obed became the father of Jesse, Jesse the father of David the king.

David became the father of Solomon, whose mother had been the wife of Uriah. Solomon became the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asaph. Asaph became the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, Joram the father of Uzziah. Uzziah became the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah. Hezekiah became the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amos, Amos the father of Josiah. Josiah became the father of Jechoniah and his brothers at the time of the Babylonian exile.

After the Babylonian exile, Jechoniah became the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, Zerubbabel the father of Abiud. Abiud became the father of Eliakim, Eliakim the father of Azor, Azor the father of Zadok. Zadok became the father of Achim, Achim the father of Eliud, Eliud the father of Eleazar. Eleazar became the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.

Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:

Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,

which means "God is with us."

or:

Shorter Form Matthew1:18-23

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:

Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,

which means "God is with us."

iMissal: My Daily Bread Verse

Matthew 5:6

Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.

Daily Scripture Reflection

September 7, 2014
Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jesus said to his disciples: "If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother." (Mt 18:15) 

This week's gospel could be summed up easily – How to Live in Community.
Several years ago I stayed in a Benedictine monastery for about a month, attending spiritual direction school there. One of the first things my spiritual director told me in our first meeting was that monastery life was not as easy and peaceful as it might seem. "Let's face it, living in community is very difficult."
So how do they get through it?
Prayer. Forgiveness. Love of neighbor.
So I guess if monks in a monastery have to struggle with community, then those of us in community at our churches and our neighborhoods and our families are going to struggle too.
And so how do we get through it?
Prayer. Forgiveness. Love of neighbor.
St. Benedict in his rule had a lot to say about how to live in community. Some of his (paraphrased) instructions include:

Show equal love to everyone.
Do not act in anger or nurse a grudge.
Express opinions with humility.
Welcome all guests as Christ.

I watched these monks during the month I was there and at subsequent visits. All of them, including the abbot, ate with us, waited on us, washed dishes, and when a flu virus spread throughout the community, they nursed each other and us as well.
If they were unhappy, we never saw it. I am sure it wasn't easy and who knows what arguments and tension took place in the private monastic enclosure, but we experienced love not friction.
We saw humility not pride.
We saw Jesus.

Dear Lord, thank you for sending people into my life to show me your love and your presence. Please help me welcome all as Christ. Help me to do better in loving my neighbor. Teach me, Lord. Amen.

Readings of The Day's Mass

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time; Blessed John Duckett and Blessed Ralph Corby


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FIRST READING
Ezekiel 33:7 - 9

Thus says the LORD:
You, son of man, I have appointed watchman for the house of Israel; when you hear me say anything, you shall warn them for me. If I tell the wicked, "O wicked one, you shall surely die," and you do not speak out to dissuade the wicked from his way, the wicked shall die for his guilt, but I will hold you responsible for his death. But if you warn the wicked, trying to turn him from his way, and he refuses to turn from his way, he shall die for his guilt, but you shall save yourself.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 95:1 - 2, 6 - 7, 8 - 9 (8)

R. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

Come, let us sing joyfully to the LORD; let us acclaim the rock of our salvation. Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us joyfully sing psalms to him.

R. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

Come, let us bow down in worship; let us kneel before the LORD who made us. For he is our God, and we are the people he shepherds, the flock he guides.

R. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

Oh, that today you would hear his voice: "Harden not your hearts as at Meribah, as in the day of Massah in the desert, where your fathers tempted me; they tested me though they had seen my works."

R. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.


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SECOND READING
Romans 13:8 - 10

Brothers and sisters:
Owe nothing to anyone, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. The commandments, "You shall not commit adultery; you shall not kill; you shall not steal; you shall not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this saying, namely, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Love does no evil to the neighbor; hence, love is the fulfillment of the law.


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ALLELUIA
2 Corinthians 5:19

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
Matthew 18:15 - 20

Jesus said to his disciples:
"If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother. If he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, so that 'every fact may be established on the testimony of two or three witnesses.' If he refuses to listen to them, tell the church. If he refuses to listen even to the church, then treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax collector. Amen, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again, amen, I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."

Readings of The Day's Mass

Saturday of Week 22; Blessed Bertrand of Garrigues


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FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 4:6b-15

Brothers and sisters:
Learn from myself and Apollos not to go beyond what is written, so that none of you will be inflated with pride in favor of one person over against another. Who confers distinction upon you? What do you possess that you have not received? But if you have received it, why are you boasting as if you did not receive it? You are already satisfied; you have already grown rich; you have become kings without us! Indeed, I wish that you had become kings, so that we also might become kings with you.

For as I see it, God has exhibited us Apostles as the last of all, like people sentenced to death, since we have become a spectacle to the world, to angels and men alike. We are fools on Christ's account, but you are wise in Christ; we are weak, but you are strong; you are held in honor, but we in disrepute. To this very hour we go hungry and thirsty, we are poorly clad and roughly treated, we wander about homeless and we toil, working with our own hands. When ridiculed, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we respond gently. We have become like the world's rubbish, the scum of all, to this very moment.

I am writing you this not to shame you, but to admonish you as my beloved children. Even if you should have countless guides to Christ, yet you do not have many fathers, for I became your father in Christ Jesus through the Gospel.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 145:17-18, 19-20, 21

R. (18) The Lord is near to all who call upon him.

The LORD is just in all his ways and holy in all his works. The LORD is near to all who call upon him, to all who call upon him in truth.

R. The Lord is near to all who call upon him.

He fulfills the desire of those who fear him, he hears their cry and saves them. The LORD keeps all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy.

R. The Lord is near to all who call upon him.

May my mouth speak the praise of the LORD, and may all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.

R. The Lord is near to all who call upon him.


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ALLELUIA
John 14:6

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

I am the way and the truth and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father except through me.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
Luke 6:1-5

While Jesus was going through a field of grain on a sabbath, his disciples were picking the heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands, and eating them. Some Pharisees said, "Why are you doing what is unlawful on the sabbath?" Jesus said to them in reply, "Have you not read what David did when he and those who were with him were hungry? How he went into the house of God, took the bread of offering, which only the priests could lawfully eat, ate of it, and shared it with his companions?" Then he said to them, "The Son of Man is lord of the sabbath."

iMissal: My Daily Bread Verse

2 Peter 3:10

But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a mighty roar and the elements will be dissolved by fire, and the earth and everything done on it will be found out.

Daily Scripture Reflection

Friday, Sept. 5

1 Corinthians 4:1-5; Luke 5:33-39

Paul tells us not to judge others. Am I a judgmental person?

Lord, I am fast to criticize others and judge them harshly. Help me to be less judgmental and more loving of others. Never let me forget that as I judge others I also will be judged. Lord have mercy.

Readings of the Day's Mass

Friday of Week 22; Blessed Teresa of Calcutta


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FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 4:1-5

Brothers and sisters:
Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Now it is of course required of stewards that they be found trustworthy. It does not concern me in the least that I be judged by you or any human tribunal; I do not even pass judgment on myself; I am not conscious of anything against me, but I do not thereby stand acquitted; the one who judges me is the Lord. Therefore, do not make any judgment before the appointed time, until the Lord comes, for he will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will manifest the motives of our hearts, and then everyone will receive praise from God.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 37:3-4, 5-6, 27-28, 39-40

R. (39a) The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.

Trust in the LORD and do good, that you may dwell in the land and be fed in security. Take delight in the LORD, and he will grant you your heart's requests.

R. The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.

Commit to the LORD your way; trust in him, and he will act. He will make justice dawn for you like the light; bright as the noonday shall be your vindication.

R. The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.

Turn from evil and do good, that you may abide forever; For the LORD loves what is right, and forsakes not his faithful ones. Criminals are destroyed and the posterity of the wicked is cut off.

R. The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.

The salvation of the just is from the LORD; he is their refuge in time of distress. And the LORD helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him.

R. The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.


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ALLELUIA
John 8:12

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

I am the light of the world, says the Lord; whoever follows me will have the light of life.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
Luke 5:33-39

The scribes and Pharisees said to Jesus,
"The disciples of John the Baptist fast often and offer prayers, and the disciples of the Pharisees do the same; but yours eat and drink." Jesus answered them, "Can you make the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, and when the bridegroom is taken away from them, then they will fast in those days." And he also told them a parable. "No one tears a piece from a new cloak to patch an old one. Otherwise, he will tear the new and the piece from it will not match the old cloak. Likewise, no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the new wine will burst the skins, and it will be spilled, and the skins will be ruined. Rather, new wine must be poured into fresh wineskins. And no one who has been drinking old wine desires new, for he says, 'The old is good.'"

iMissal: My Daily Bread Verse

Acts 20:35

In every way I have shown you that by hard work of that sort we must help the weak, and keep in mind the words of the Lord Jesus who himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'

Daily Scripture Reflection

Thursday, Sept. 4

1 Corinthians 3:18-23; Luke 5:1-11

Simon left everything behind to follow Jesus. What do I need to leave behind to better follow Jesus?

Lord, I have so much and I am so attached to it. Help me to see what holds me back in following you and grant me the courage to leave it behind to follow you. Nothing is so valuable that it should separate us.

Readings of The Day's Mass

Thursday of Week 22; St. Rose of Viterbo


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FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 3:18-23

Brothers and sisters:
Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you considers himself wise in this age, let him become a fool, so as to become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in the eyes of God, for it is written:

God catches the wise in their own ruses,

and again:

The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.

So let no one boast about human beings, for everything belongs to you, Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or the present or the future: all belong to you, and you to Christ, and Christ to God.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 24:1bc-2, 3-4ab, 5-6

R. (1) To the Lord belongs the earth and all that fills it.

The LORD's are the earth and its fullness; the world and those who dwell in it. For he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers.

R. To the Lord belongs the earth and all that fills it.

Who can ascend the mountain of the LORD? or who may stand in his holy place? He whose hands are sinless, whose heart is clean, who desires not what is vain.

R. To the Lord belongs the earth and all that fills it.

He shall receive a blessing from the LORD, a reward from God his savior. Such is the race that seeks for him, that seeks the face of the God of Jacob.

R. To the Lord belongs the earth and all that fills it.


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ALLELUIA
Matthew 4:19

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Come after me, says the Lord, and I will make you fishers of men.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
Luke 5:1-11

While the crowd was pressing in on Jesus and listening to the word of God, he was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret. He saw two boats there alongside the lake; the fishermen had disembarked and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, he asked him to put out a short distance from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. After he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch." Simon said in reply, "Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command I will lower the nets." When they had done this, they caught a great number of fish and their nets were tearing. They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come to help them. They came and filled both boats so that the boats were in danger of sinking. When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at the knees of Jesus and said, "Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man." For astonishment at the catch of fish they had made seized him and all those with him, and likewise James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners of Simon. Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men." When they brought their boats to the shore, they left everything and followed him.

iMissal: My Daily Bread Verse

Acts 10:34

Then Peter proceeded to speak and said, "In truth, I see that God shows no partiality".

Daily Scripture Reflection

Tuesday, Sept. 2

1 Corinthians 2:10b-16; Luke 4:31-37

Jesus drove the evil spirits from the man in the synagogue. From what evil spirits do I need to be delivered?

Lord, there are many evil spirits attacking me constantly. Help me to know which ones I am in most need of your help with. Grant me the strength to resist any evil spirits which attack me.

Readings of the Day's Mass

Tuesday of Week 22; Blessed John DuLau and the September Martyrs


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FIRST READING
1 Corinthians 2:10b-16

Brothers and sisters:
The Spirit scrutinizes everything, even the depths of God. Among men, who knows what pertains to the man except his spirit that is within? Similarly, no one knows what pertains to God except the Spirit of God. We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand the things freely given us by God. And we speak about them not with words taught by human wisdom, but with words taught by the Spirit, describing spiritual realities in spiritual terms.

Now the natural man does not accept what pertains to the Spirit of God, for to him it is foolishness, and he cannot understand it, because it is judged spiritually. The one who is spiritual, however, can judge everything but is not subject to judgment by anyone.

For "who has known the mind of the Lord, so as to counsel him?" But we have the mind of Christ.


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RESPONSORIAL PSALM
Psalm 145:8-9, 10-11, 12-13ab, 13cd-14

R. (17) The Lord is just in all his ways.

The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness. The LORD is good to all and compassionate toward all his works.

R. The Lord is just in all his ways.

Let all your works give you thanks, O LORD, and let your faithful ones bless you. Let them discourse of the glory of your Kingdom and speak of your might.

R. The Lord is just in all his ways.

Making known to men your might and the glorious splendor of your Kingdom. Your Kingdom is a Kingdom for all ages, and your dominion endures through all generations.

R. The Lord is just in all his ways.

The LORD is faithful in all his words and holy in all his works. The LORD lifts up all who are falling and raises up all who are bowed down.

R. The Lord is just in all his ways.


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ALLELUIA
Luke 7:16

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

A great prophet has arisen in our midst and God has visited his people.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.


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GOSPEL
Luke 4:31-37

Jesus went down to Capernaum, a town of Galilee. He taught them on the sabbath, and they were astonished at his teaching because he spoke with authority. In the synagogue there was a man with the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out in a loud voice, "What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are - the Holy One of God!" Jesus rebuked him and said, "Be quiet! Come out of him!" Then the demon threw the man down in front of them and came out of him without doing him any harm. They were all amazed and said to one another, "What is there about his word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out." And news of him spread everywhere in the surrounding region.