Meditation: Friday, December 1, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Friday, December 1, 2006
The Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation Rev 20:1-4, 11—21:2
Psalm 84:3, 4, 5-6a and 8a
Luke 21:29-33


A reflection on today's Scripture:

The Book of Revelation (from which today’s first reading comes) is a vision full of mysterious symbolism. When we have been properly instructed on the symbolism some of the things that seem so mysterious and strange become more understandable or so it seems. There is however, even then, an underlying realization that we don’t understand fully the mystery of our creation, our human fall from grace and the wonder of Christ’s love which redeems us.

As a naturally curious human being I want to know it all: the details, the nuances, the beauty of God’s intricate plan. That however, is reserved for the final days when all will be revealed with, I am sure, remarkable clarity and probably frightening reality.

In the meantime according to God’s desire, we have purview to some knowledge, some information, actually all that is required for us to respond lovingly to God. We need not be Scripture scholars or have special access to programs of instruction because we have come “hardwired” to recognize and respond to God’s gifts of grace.

Let us then read Holy Scripture not so much to learn and know the heart and mind and plans of God, but above all to seek Him with faith, in hope and above all with love.

“Be watchful and ready; you know not when the Son of Man is coming.”
(Matthew 24:42, 44)

- Donna Nelson, OCDS
(drn3rd at hughes dot net)

Meditation: Thursday, November 30, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, November 30, 2006
Thursday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Andrew, apostle

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Romans 10:9-18
Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11
Matthew 4:18-22


A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)

These are very encouraging words from St. Paul. The Lord will save us if we love. For it is only for someone that you love, that you will share stories about them and want others to meet them and get to know them. This is all that our Lord is asking of us—faithfulness through love, and for that love to be shared throughout the world.

But how are we to confess with our mouths that Jesus is Lord? The disciples didn’t know this either but they had faith in our Lord and followed Him without questioning Christ’s words. “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men. At once they left their nets and followed him.” (Matthew 4:19-20) As they followed Christ they learned how to love others and sacrifice their lives so that when it came time for them to go and proclaim that Jesus is Lord to the four corners of the world, they were able to do so without questioning and with confidence that Jesus would be with them always. They proclaimed Jesus’ good news by word and action. In some cases they even gave the ultimate sacrifice, their lives.

We too are called to do as the disciples, to give our lives for Christ—at home, in the work place, at school, in the streets. So that all, whom we meet, may see, hear and believe that Jesus is our Lord and Savior!

- Danielle

Meditation: Wednesday, November 29, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Wednesday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Readings from the Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 15:1-4
Psalm 98:1, 2-3ab, 7-8, 9
Luke 21:12-19


A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

They will persecute you—you will be hated because of My Holy Name—but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives. (see Luke 21:12-19)

As we become more like Jesus in our walk with Him, we begin to face some of the challenges He did. Why wouldn’t we? When we experience a conversion, the events that make up our daily routine don’t change, we do. So we should expect our outcomes to change. We are tested when we choose God first. If we were shown some of the trials we would encounter before we began our new life in Christ, we would most likely have withdrawn.

But along the way, Jesus fulfills his promise, “I myself will give you wisdom . . . .” Our old tactics begin to look foolish to us. He gives us a portion of His knowledge so we can answer challenges to our faith. He quiets the words in our hearts so we won’t reply angrily and chooses words for us that restore and nourish. He gives us patience to endure our sufferings, understanding to simply forgive, joy to effortlessly love.

We persevere to secure our lives. Through the wisdom He gives us, Jesus shows others how to secure theirs.

- Elizabeth
(elizabethtichvon at comcast dot net)

Meditation: Tuesday, November 28, 2006

Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Tuesday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 14:14-19
Psalm 96:10-13
Luke 21:5-11


A reflection on today's Liturgy of the Word . . . .


The day will come when there will not be left one stone upon another . . . (see Luke: 21:6)

Today's readings deal with the effects and end results of faithlessness. Sadly, disbelievers in God have chosen a bleak and hopeless existence, trapped themselves in a world devoid of true love, truth and justice. Lacking a foundation upon which to build a sound and unchanging morality, their days move randomly, at the mercy of ever-changing tides. By denying God and the existence of an immortal human soul, they deny being accountable to a higher power and so mainly obey their animal instincts for ascendancy and survival. Their fictitious freedom is actually enslavement to their insatiable appetite for worldly goods, unheeding of harm to others while remaining in denial of their own death and eternal loss.

Christ foresees the destruction of Jerusalem's temple caused by His people willfully turning away from God, their protector. Jesus tells the faithful, those living in God's truth and love in joyful anticipation of gaining heaven, that they will be hounded by infidels who will hate them for exposing their sinful behavior. St. John's "Revelation" pictures the fate of unbelievers. Biblically, blood is seen as the very source of life. Pity those souls who have denied and willfully refused to receive the cleansing and saving blood of Christ, for in the end they will be wrung dry of all life to become like empty skins left in a winepress. At death, when these souls encounter the light and fire of God's love, they will see themselves as they really are. After a lifetime of rejecting Him, they will have rendered themselves incapable of bearing His Presence. In consequence, they will be left with Satan to exist eternally in excruciating pain, raging in their eternal loss.

Merciful Christ, help us see that heaven or hell is a matter of human choice, and that we can attain eternal life with You if we, in this life, agree to being transformed in Your holy Image. Amen.

- Marie Bocko, OCDS
(mlbocko at earthlink dot net)

Meditation: Monday, November 27, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, November 27, 2006
Monday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 14:1-3, 4b-5
Psalm 24:1bc-2, 3-4ab, 5-6
Luke 21:1-4


A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:


Little did the "poor widow" realize how many people would learn from her example! This is being said in reference to the gospel of today. Christ brought the attention of His disciples to the generosity of the woman. She gave from what she needed, whereas the rich wealthy persons gave from their surplus.

We might ask ourselves the question: how can we always be returning to Christ out of our need? Very quickly we will have nothing. That is the beautiful mystery He was describing. Yes, if we give our all, we really do have nothing, but then we have Him, our dependence on God and each other. But again, we might say that this is really not very practical, and a bit risky to say the least.

There is a way to do this that is very practical—and it's really what our lives are about anyway. It is that we make a deliberate offering of ourselves to God every morning. This is a prayer called “The Morning Offering." A person can pray it in their own words. It helps us realize that everything we have is a gift, and we return that gift, those numerous gifts, to God daily. It changes our entire life, our focus, our priorities!

“O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart to Mary,
I offer thee all my prayers, works and sufferings of this day,
in union with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass throughout the world,
in reparation for my sins, the sins of the world,
the intentions of the Pope, the Sacred Heart of Jesus
and my own intentions. Amen.”

- Joan of Jesus, OCDS
(jmurphy at utica dot edu)

Meditation: Sunday, November 26, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, November 26, 2006
Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Daniel 7:13-14
Psalm 93:1, 1-2, 5
Revelation 1:5-8
John 18:33b-37


A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

This, the last Sunday of the Church year, celebrates the coming of the Son of Man on the clouds heaven at the end of time! In every century, Christians have found immense consolation from these readings. Just when we seem to be heading for cosmic, social, and personal disaster, we are reminded that God is still in charge, and that we belong to a kingdom that will never fail us, an eternal kingdom of justice, peace, and love

The gist of the message this week is found in the writings of two great visionaries—the old testament prophet, Daniel, and the new covenant writer, John. Although they are “dream visions,” we can confidently believe that they are truly the Word of God. Daniel wrote at a time of great distress for the Jews under the Greek ruler, Antiochus Epiphanes II. Such visions gave the people courage to endure. In John’s time, Christians were already suffering persecution under the Emperor Domitian. Again, apocalyptic visions helped them be patient for the Son of Man’s arrival in the clouds.

In the Gospel, Jesus boldly affirms to Pilate that He is that Son of Man who will come on the clouds of heaven as a king. In effect, Jesus is saying, “Don’t worry, Pilate. I’m not here to take your job, or to dethrone Caesar, for my kingdom is not political but spiritual. It’s not on your maps!"

Neither Pilate nor the political leaders of our own day believe in the practical reality of spiritual kingdoms. Nations rise and nations fall, but Christ’s kingdom will triumph into eternal life!

Every living follower of Christ has reason to find meaning and purpose in the wonderful prophecy of John today: “To Him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by His blood, Who has made us into a kingdom, priests for His God and Father, to Him be the glory and power forever and ever. Amen.”

May those words serve to melt all pessimism, doubt, and despair about the ultimate triumph of good over evil, and of the effectiveness of our witness through prayer and, yes, suffering as we struggle in faith towards our future. Many of us still remember that glorious hymn we used to sing in Latin “Christus vincit. Christus regnat. Christus imperat!”

Christ conquers! Christ rules! Christ reigns supreme!

Msgr. Paul Whitmore
(pwhitmore29 at yahoo dot com)

Saturday, November 25, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, November 25, 2006
Saturday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time
St. Catherine of Alexandria

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 11:4-12
Psalm 144:1, 2, 9-10
Luke 20:27-40

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"They no longer die, for they are like angels . . . ."

The Lord teaches that the provisions and quality of the life of heaven are completely different from those here below. We will be the same, given the glorious bodies of the resurrection, but we will not marry nor be given in marriage. We will be all children of God.

What Heaven is like is almost completely unknown, except that the Lord assures us that the measure and the ordering that we know here below will not be the measure and the ordering of heaven. We will be new people, retaining the body in the resurrection and made glorified, just as Jesus was mysteriously glorified after His own resurrection.

We don't know what this means, and really, it isn't that important. What is important here and now is to know that we cannot know the glory of Heaven, and so there is no point wasting time trying to understand it. Instead, it is better to start living that heaven here on Earth in the presence of the Lord and in the service of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

- JuandelaCruz
(sriddle415 at yahoo dot com)

Meditation: Friday, November 24, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Friday, November 24, 2006
The Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time
St. Andrew Dung-Lac, priest, martyr and his companions, martyrs

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 10:8—11
Psalm 119:14, 24, 72, 103, 111, 131
Luke 19:45—48

A reflection on today's Scripture:

"My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves." (Luke 19:46)

Reading newspapers and watching TV make one wonder what we would talk or complain about if we lived in a "victimless" world. In this present day many people would find life unbearable because they relish hearing of theft, murder, rape, adultery, war, etc. If they could no longer watch others' misfortunes and think better of themselves for avoiding such troubles, our news and entertainment media would immediately go bankrupt for lack of support. Also who could be so foolish as to believe in, obey or love a God Who would deny us such gruesome pleasures, Who asks us to consume our time by working to promote and do the dull job of cherishing life and loving others.

All sarcasm and irony aside, humanity has largely allowed itself to be fed moral garbage, thus coming to accept that subhuman behavior is unavoidable and perhaps even necessary in some situations. In consequence, many lives are in rebellion against God and especially toward the Christ of the New Testament who calls us to self-denial and self-giving love. St. John's Revelation is anathema to some human minds, for it prophesies a new world from which unrepented and unreformed sinners will have excluded themselves. The sweet and sour scroll John was told to eat represents the goodness of God's Word contrasted with the bitter struggles encountered by those living in His Word in this world. But while evil forces influence many souls, the love and truth of God will prevail in the end.

Jesus' forceful expelling of the money changers from the Temple area demonstrates that He has indeed come to cleanse and purify us, His people, from corrupting influences. What better place was there for Him to begin than at the threshold of God's dwelling? We would do well to apply this to ourselves who are called to be Temples of God's Holy Spirit

Almighty and merciful Christ, You cleanse and make all things new. May we allow You to make us truly clean and so give You glory throughout every moment of our lives. Amen.

- Marie Bocko, OCDS
(mlbocko at earthlink dot net)

Meditation: Thursday, November 23, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, November 23, 2006
Thursday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Reading I: Sirach 50:22-24
Psalm 138:1-2a, 2bc-3, 4-5
Reading II: 1 Corinthians 1:3-9
Luke 17:11-19


A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Today in the United States we honor a long tradition of spending this day in thanksgiving to almighty God with our families and friends. We gather in prayer, family meals, visit and perhaps watch some sports. So far, the occasion has been spared much of the commercialism of some other holidays. It is a chance to reflect, regroup and give thanks for all our many blessings. We trust that the tradition will continue indefinitely.

Not to take away from the holiday of Thanksgiving, but perhaps this year we might also ponder how much and how often we take time to praise God for all the many blessings we receive instant by instant. It also helps us to realize that though God needs our cooperation, He is at all times guiding and directing our lives. Sometimes we might forget that important fact.

- Joan of Jesus, OCDS
(jmurphy at utica dot edu)

Meditation: Wednesday, November 22, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Wednesday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time
St. Cecilia, virgin and martyr

Readings from the Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 4:1-11
Psalm 150:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6
Luke 19:11-28


A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Today’s scripture and Psalm can be summed up in one word: praise! We find in hearing today’s Word, a full spectrum of praise for our God. We begin with John’s vision from Revelation and the praise around the heavenly throne. Then, in the psalm it seems we can actually hear the rousing praise springing forth from the instruments. Finally, Luke gives us a parable where the king gives control of his wealth to others, who do him honor and praise by bringing him a sound return. The scripture shows us that there are many, almost countless ways to praise God.

This is true when we look at the saints and holy people through history. St. Francis praised God through his poverty and love of the downtrodden. Fr. Solanus Casey brought praise through his humble work as a doorman in his friary. Brother Lawrence praised the Lord in his washing pots in his community. Mother Teresa praised the Lord she found in all the poor in India she attended to. The Apostles gave praise through the miracles they did in His name. And the list goes on and on . . . .

There is simply no end to the way we can praise our Lord. While we may not be given riches by a king to manage, or given the gift to perform miracles, we can still offer praise in the small task of washing pots and pans. We can certainly help with the poor, sick, aged and all creatures, and we can sing, bang a drum or play the flute to praise our Lord. We all have the ability--it is just necessary for us to use it.

- Don Claunch, SFO
(dlclaunch at bresnan dot net)

The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Tuesday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time
Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 3:1-6, 14-22
Psalm 15:2-3a, 3bc-4ab, 5
Luke 19:1-10


A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:


In today’s First Reading from the Book of Revelation we hear a few words which remind us of the importance of “self-knowledge." Self-knowledge is necessary in order to make progress on our spiritual journey. Without having the proper vision regarding our behavior and motives, we risk thinking that we are acting rightly when, in fact, the contrary might be more accurate.

Today Holy Scripture says, “Little do you know how wretched you are, how pitiable and poor, how blind and naked,” (Revelation 3:17) when in contrast what is being felt is that, all is well—that there are richness, security and want of nothing.

It’s a bit of a warning, isn’t it? We must be on guard! When everything seems well and comfortable perhaps it’s time to take a closer look and determine if our senses have anesthetized our reason and we are in need of a “reality check.”

How blessed we are that we have the Church and her teachings to help us form our consciences and direct us in a holy and uncompromising way toward salvation! Let us avail ourselves of prayer and The Sacraments, the surest compass in a mixed-up and confusing world.

- Donna Nelson, OCDS
(drn3rd at hughes dot net)

____________________

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Meditation: Monday, November 20, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Monday, November 20, 2006
Monday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Rev 1:1-4; 2:1-5
Psalm 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6
Luke 18:35-43

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"Lord, please let me see." (Luke 18:41)

What will heaven be like? Children often ask this question but we as adults tend to preoccupy ourselves with matters of far greater spiritual importance. When we do this, do we forget what our ultimate goal is—or should be? This year, on the feast of All Saints, Pope Benedict XVI reminded us to live each day with an eye on “the world to come.” By focusing on the next world, not only are we sustained by the promise of a great heavenly reward at the end of our long journey—but we’re called to look closely at our lives to see if we’re indeed journeying in the right direction to reach our ultimate destination.

What would it be like to not be able to see? Would our lives be very different from what they are today, if all we could see was a formless dark blackness? And what if—one glorious day—the gift of sight was restored to us? And what if the first thing we saw was Jesus Himself surrounded by a breathtaking light? How would you react? What would it be like to stand before Jesus? To see his face? And if He spoke, what do you think He would say? What would your response be? Is there anything that you would have done differently in your life prior to this meeting?

Take a moment to ponder these questions and starting now, strive to grow in a faith that will heal you and lead you to see God more clearly.

- Anne
(anne97 at gmail dot com)

Meditation: Sunday, November 19, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, November 19, 2006
Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Daniel 12:1-3
Psalm 16:5, 8, 9-10, 11
Hebrews 10:11-14, 18
Mark 13:24-32

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Don’t you love it when one of your friends starts off a conversation by saying quite solemnly, “There are two kinds of people . . . .”? We’re supposed to hold our breath for a brilliant analysis! So forgive me if I start off this meditation with one. There are two kinds of people: those who believe that life ends with death, and those who believe that death is just the beginning. It wasn’t so obvious to the Jews of the Old Testament. The Book of Daniel, from which our first reading is taken, is called an apocalyptic book. It talks about the archangel Michael, “the great prince,” directing some really dramatic events. For the first time, a belief in the resurrection of the body is stated pretty clearly. Not everyone will be happy about that, of course, especially if they haven’t lived a good life.

Then Mark’s Gospel gives us Jesus’ prophecy about the end times. Again, it’s pretty scary for people who haven’t prepared very well. After some gigantic cosmic fireworks, with the sun, the moon, and the stars going crazy, we will see the Son of Man coming in all his glory. Why is He coming? He’s coming to judge every person who was ever born. Some will enter into eternal joy, others into eternal pain.

There is no question that these readings should inspire us with a certain dread and fear. Yet, they are meant to give us great hope, especially in the second reading from Hebrews. Here, St. Paul assures us that Jesus, the High Priest, took on Himself the burden of our sins and destroyed them through His one-time sacrifice on Calvary. Jesus is a High Priest totally different from the other High Priests, for when He comes again (on the clouds of heaven), He comes to save us and bring all people to salvation. There is the most hopeful note in this next to the last Sunday of the Church year.

How many will be saved? When will all this happen? Mark’s Gospel tells us no one knows the time or the place, except the Father. So speculation is useless! What we need to do is live each day as though it were our last—in confident hope and constant love for God and neighbor.

Msgr. Paul Whitmore
(pwhitmore29 at yahoo dot com)

Meditation: Saturday, November 18, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, November 18, 2006
Saturday of the Thirty-second Week in Ordinary Time
St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, virgin

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
1 John 5-8
Psalm 112:1-2, 3-4, 5-6
Luke 18:1-8

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"I shall deliver a just decision for her . . . ."

Be faithful. Be persevering and God will come with justice and with mercy, bringing you to your goal and bringing you safely home to him.

The importunate widow was asking for justice in this world, for small and perishable things. But the justice we ask for is the mercy of God. We ask the justice of the promise made in His Son that whosoever should believe in Him shall have everlasting life.

Be faithful; persevere in prayer for those around you, for the Church, for the poor souls in Purgatory, for yourself. God cannot but reward such perseverance because to judge against it would be to judge against Himself who made it possible through His grace and Holy Spirit.

- JuandelaCruz
(sriddle415 at yahoo dot com)

Meditation: Friday, November 17, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Friday, November 17, 2006
The Thirty-second Week in Ordinary Time
St. Elizabeth of Hungary

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
2 John: 4-9
Psalm 119:1, 2, 10-11, 17-18
Luke 17:26-37

A reflection on today's Scripture . . . .

Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it,
but whoever loses it will save it. (Luke 17:33)

St. John's second letter cites a problem still afflicting Christ's Church today. Those who do not pray deeply and therefore are not attuned to the Holy Spirit invent their own doctrines more in keeping with worldly views thereby drawing many into accepting liberal, heretical beliefs. St. John advises these troubled groups to be steadfast in their faith, live the great commandment of mutual love and embrace Jesus as the Son of God who has indeed come to us in human flesh. To believe otherwise denies the seriousness of sin, dismisses Christ's sacrificial death for its remission, and leaves humanity unforgiven and dead in sin.

Over the past half century theologians and clergy have ceased mentioning hell, suggesting that negativism offended and demoralized people. They stressed instead that since God is love, hell simply does not fit into His picture. The effects of this "positive" attitude allowed many to settle comfortably in their sin, cease going to Confession and saw the Eucharistic Mass simply as a communal meal rather than a Sacrament of God's love, the sacrificial giving of Himself for His children's salvation. Unwittingly, perhaps, our religious "experts" trivialized Jesus' supreme act of self-giving love and the necessity of our dying with Him to all selfish behaviors that hinder peace and harmony between peoples.

Jesus speaks today of the "end times" when He returns to gather to Himself all who have embraced His truth and love and sincerely sought to live in and by God's grace. Those who have pursued "self" rather than God's Word will be left behind in the places of destruction as in the flood in Noah's time and the fiery end of Sodom in Lot's time. Christ excludes no one from His kingdom; we exclude ourselves by closing our hearts to Him.

Most gracious Lord, continue to pour out your love and truth upon us by doing all that will awaken our hearts and minds to You and so allow you to become our all in all. Amen.

- Marie Bocko, OCDS
(mlbocko at earthlink dot net)

Meditation: Thursday, November 16, 2006

The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, November 16, 2006
Thursday of the Thirty-second Week in Ordinary Time
St. Margaret of Scotland
St. Gertrude

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Philemon 7-20
Psalm 146:7, 8-9a, 9bc-10
Luke 17:20-25

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In the northeastern part of the United States, the home of this writer, nature is winding down the brilliant hues of autumn; the gentle rains are falling in preparation for our long, but beautiful snow-laden winter. In our social spheres we have not yet begun the frantic commercial preparations for the Christmas holiday. We can choose to take advantage of this precious "oasis" to realize the Kingdom of God within each of us, as baptized Christians.

In the first reading, St. Paul makes reference to the joy he receives from the love of his fellow Christians. Would this not also be true of our Lord? We are all children of God, and as children we can express our sincere, childlike love to our Abba—Father. We can curl up in the loving arms of our Father in Heaven and just BE! That total gift of self is all that we can give back to our Father, and is really all that He wants.

- Joan of Jesus, OCDS
(jmurphy at utica dot edu)

Meditation: Wednesday, November 15, 2006

November 14, 2006
An important note for our weblog readers:

There’ll be more changes and experimentation taking place here on the weblog as we strive to publish the Daily Meditations with less labor-intensive operations.

One thing you’ll notice is that the appearance of this blog may be slightly less colorful than in the past as we attempt to port the Daily Meditations from our email list over here to the weblog. I hope that in the future, we’ll be able to return to a “color” version with the usual formatting as in the past.

Another change taking place immediately, is that the Daily Meditations will no longer be published early in the morning as in the past four years. Now they will be published 1/2 day earlier, shortly after 12-noon Eastern Time, USA.

The system has a lot of variables that we can work with, and I hope to return it to the way it used to be, but with far less human intervention. Any constructive comments or suggestions, pro or con, are welcome!

Please be patient with us and remember us in your prayers as we work out these problems.

In Christ,
- Joachim, ocds


The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Wednesday of the Thirty-second Week in Ordinary Time
St. Albert the Great, bishop, doctor of the Church

Readings from the Liturgy of the Word:
Titus 3:1-7
Psalm 23:1b-3a, 3bc-4, 5, 6
Luke 17:11-19

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

We need to really stop and examine what takes place in today’s gospel reading. Allow me to paraphrase. Ten lepers meet our Lord. They ask Jesus to take pity on them. He sends them away to be examined by a priest and heals them in the process. Only one returns, a Samaritan, to praise God and give thanks to Jesus.

Lepers were complete and total outcasts in Jesus' society. Most likely disfigured from their disease, they were also unclean according to the law. So, not only were they undesirable in a physical sense, but in a religious sense as well and they could not be forced further from mainstream society than they were.

The one that returned to give thanks was a Samaritan. Samaritans were unwelcome by the Jews and there were sometimes open hostilities between them. To a Jew a Samaritan was not worth noticing. A Samaritan leper was certainly something far less.

So, we have our Lord healing ten and receiving thanks and praise from only one–a Samaritan leper. What are we to learn from this? It might be good to ask what happened to the other nine. While the scripture does not say, it might be safe to assume that they went to the priest as Jesus instructed, as this was required under the law when one was cured of leprosy.

The law was not a bad thing; Jesus said he did not come to abolish the law. But the Samaritan saw the better part of the law, which was to love God with his whole being. Doing this requires praise, thanksgiving and gratitude, which is what the Samaritan returned to deliver. Did he follow the letter of the law? Not exactly, but he did the right and better thing.

Our lesson comes from this. God gives to us freely each day and our response should always be to love Him with all we have, pure and simple. Anything that gets in the way of us doing this prevents us from giving proper thanks and praise and makes us one of the nine who did not return.

- Don Claunch, SFO
(dlclaunch at bresnan dot net)

-----

The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Tuesday of the Thirty-second Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Titus 2:1-8, 11-14
Psalm 37:3-4, 18 and 23, 27 and 29
Luke 17:7-10

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

To what extent do Gospel values permeate my behavior?

It is a question that brings me face to face with the degree of my Christian authenticity and integrity.

In the workplace I'm constantly encouraged to do my best by recalling the words of Holy Scripture that remind me that, in serving my neighbor, I'm serving God. They help me curb the natural tension that arises when I think I'm being asked to do what seems impossible and give me joy in knowing that, in trying my best, I'm pleasing the Lord.

We must utilize the Word of God to help us with the many trials of life. We should memorize and be familiar with the verses that assist us to become more Christlike and help us willingly bear the necessary burdens in life.

I, for one, love these words from today’s Gospel (see Luke 17:10) that put things in their proper perspective for me: “We are useless servants. We have done no more than our duty.” To do what is my duty with fidelity and joy, is what God expects.

This should always be my habitual attitude and response. In addition, just to make certain I don’t forget, I also like to remember that “You must never grow weary of doing what is right brothers; He whom you serve is the Lord.” (see 2 Thessalonians 3:13)

Oh, do those words ever help me! I pray they will help you too!

- Donna Nelson, OCDS
(drn3rd at hughes dot net)

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The Catholic Calendar for Monday, November 13, 2006
Monday of the Thirty-second Week in Ordinary Time
St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, virgin

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Titus 1:1-9
Psalm 24:1b-2, 3-4ab, 5-6
Luke 17:1-6

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Saint Paul entrusted to Timothy the role of appointing priests and bishops so that the teachings of Jesus Christ may be properly taught to the people. Now St. Paul is very specific about what kind of person he wishes to be the priests. “Blameless, married only once, with believing children who are not accused of licentiousness or rebellious.” (see Timothy 1:5-6) For the bishops who have a greater responsibility, much more is expected of them. “Be blameless, not arrogant, not irritable, not a drunkard, not aggressive, temperate, just, holy, and self-controlled, holding fast to the true message as taught” (see Timothy 1:7-8) Note that it was neither brains nor individual talents but the size of the individual’s faith which was supported by his actions of love. For one cannot consistently be all that St. Paul asks, without God being a part of their lives.

In today’s Gospel Jesus alludes to the severity of sin which explains why St. Paul wanted those to lead Jesus’ flock to have great faith and little sin. “It would be better for him if a millstone were put around his neck and he be thrown into the sea than for him to cause one of these little ones sin.” (Luke 17:1)

Therefore it is for the betterment of the individual to be rebuked if he should sin. But Jesus is as always merciful and kind; He instructs that if a person were to sin seven times he is to be forgiven. In the Bible the number seven is a perfect number. Therefore Jesus is telling us that it is irrelevant the number of times that we sin as long as we repent with a contrite heart; for each one of them, God will forgive us.

The disciples, just as St. Paul, knew that to achieve a blameless life it must be accompanied by faith and that is why they asked God to increase our faith. Let us ask God to increase our faith, because if our little faith can uproot a mulberry tree and be planted into the sea, imagine what wonders God may achieve through us if it were to grow—sanctity.

- Danielle

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The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, November 12, 2006
Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
1 Kings 17:10-16
Psalm 146:7, 8-9, 9-10
Hebrews 9:24-28
Mark 12:38-44 or 12:41-44

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Our readings this week are most appropriate for Stewardship Sunday, since they highlight God’s generosity to those who give to God “until it hurts!" God, in turn, is even more generous than they are.

Take the poor widow, for instance, in the first reading from the first Book of Kings. Elijah, who is on the run from the wicked King Ahab, finds her out picking up sticks so she can make a fire. Elijah is hungry, and asks the woman to please make him a little cake. He soon finds out that the woman has nothing in the house except a small bit of flour and oil. It’s going to be the last meal for herself and her son before they die! Nevertheless, out of this little bit, she feeds Elijah first. He tells her that, as a reward, her oil and flour will last until the rains come again (which turns out to be a whole year!). God will not be outdone in generosity!

Mark’s Gospel narrates a really moving story about Jesus in the Temple, observing those who are putting in collection money. He’s really impressed with a poor widow who puts in two copper coins, all she has to live on. In her humility, she probably hoped that no one would see this, since there were many rich people around her putting in large sums. Far be it from Jesus to discourage the wealthy from making big donations! He’s merely pointing out how more admirable is sacrificial giving than just giving from what one has left over!

Jesus had a soft spot in his heart for widows. They were the most vulnerable people in the society of his time, for there was no “social security” of any kind, and no husband to protect and provide for them. He has just finished a scorching condemnation of the religious authorities for their insensitivity to the plight of these widows. Instead of helping them, they were taking away what little they had through unbearable temple taxes.

God approves of sacrificial giving. How good are we at this kind of generosity? This includes adjusting our schedules to help some person or cause in need of our time and talent.

Msgr. Paul Whitmore
(pwhitmore29 at yahoo dot com)

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The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, November 11, 2006
Saturday of the Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time
St. Martin of Tours, bishop

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Philippians 4:10-19
Psalm 112:1b-2, 5-6, 8a and 9
Luke 16:9-15

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"Who can be trusted in very small matters may be trusted in great . . . ."

As you were growing up, your parents gave you tasks to do. At first they were small--carry this from here to there, make your bed, take out the garbage. But eventually they became larger, "Could you go out to the store for me . . . ." When we showed ourselves faithful and trustworthy in the little things, our privileges grew and the tasks required of us grew.

Had we shown ourselves untrustworthy or incapable in these little things, the tasks would always have remained small. So the Lord teaches us today. We are entrusted with small matters at first, with perishable wealth and matters that are not of any importance. If we show ourselves capable of using them and employing them properly, we will be entrusted with great matters, with the matters of Saints.

And so, work hard, pray hard. Allow the Holy Spirit to carry the burden, and you will show yourself trustworthy in small matters. The time will come when the Lord will ask you to help in great ones.

- JuandelaCruz
(sriddle415 at yahoo dot com)

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The Catholic Calendar for Friday, November 10, 2006
The Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time
St. Leo the Great, pope and doctor of the Church

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Philippians 3:17--4:1
Psalm 122:1-5
Luke 16:1-8

A reflection on today's Scripture. . . .

"For the children of this world are more prudent in dealing with their own generation than are the children of the light." (Luke 16:8)

Today's reading contrasts the spiritual with the material life. St. Paul declares that Christians are called primarily to conduct themselves as people of God being transformed in the image of Christ through their exercising His self-giving love. Rather than miring themselves in earthly pursuits and passing pleasures, they are to become fit to live eternally with our all-holy God. This does not mean that they must reject enjoying this world's God-given blessings, but only that these should not become their "gods," their major pursuits. Human life is intended to reach its fulfillment in Christ who will on the last day change these lowly bodies to conform to His own glorified body and so join Him in eternity.

Our Gospel narrates the firing of a steward who squandered his master's riches. In the world's view, the master rightly seeks multiplying rather than dissipating his assets. In the Spirit's view it suggests that though God is an ample provider, He expects His stewards (that’s us) to use both material and spiritual riches wisely, neither hoarding nor wasting them. In Jesus' time, usury, charging interest on loans, was forbidden, but the steward used a loophole in the system. He enriched himself by charging buyers of his master's goods for more than they actually received. Now facing unemployment, the steward reversed his tactics; he befriended debtors by rewriting their promissory notes for the correct amounts.

Ironically, the worldly-minded former employer now praises the steward for ingratiating himself with debtors, cultivating potentially helpful friends as he seeks a new job. In this world's materialistic viewpoint, cleverness wins over honesty. Spiritually speaking, it appears that sinful humans can be driven to honesty only if it works to their advantage.

O Sanctifying Spirit, cleanse our minds of worldly selfishness and remove all guile from our hearts, that we may clearly reflect the goodness of Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen

- Marie Bocko, OCDS
(mlbocko at earthlink dot net)

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The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, November 9, 2006
Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Reading I: Ezekiel 47:1-2, 8-9, 12
Psalm 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9
Reading II: 1 Corinthians 3:9c-11, 16-17
John 2:13-22

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Throughout history, the world has shown respect toward the houses of worship, the house of God. It is considered a tragedy of significance for instance when a church, mosque or temple is bombed or plundered in wartime.

Today's scriptural readings focus on the reality that we are temples of God, a fact that can be forgotten as we move through the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. The reading from Corinthians reminds us that we are to continue building ourselves and others into the city of God. (1 Corinthians 3:9c-11)

God gives us free will to choose those "building materials," to choose materials that are appropriate or otherwise! What a wonderful world it would be if we all fully realized this responsibility! For instance, what clothing would we select each day to adorn this temple of God? How would we carry ourselves, how would we sit or speak with others? Regarding our senses, what would we look at—to allow into this temple? What would we listen to—as musical background for the temple? The considerations are endless! What a responsibility, but how better to use this precious time of ours!

- Joan of Jesus, OCDS
(jmurphy at utica dot edu)

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The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, November 8, 2006
Wednesday of the Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time

Readings from the Liturgy of the Word:
Philippians 2:12-18
Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14
Luke 14:25-33

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In recent weeks our gospel readings have dealt much with what it takes to follow Jesus. A recurring theme has been sacrifice and how one must be willing to make sacrifices to be a true follower of the Lord. In today’s gospel, Jesus delivers the same message, but in some of the strongest language we have yet heard.


When one first hears our Lord say that we must hate our mother and father, wife, children and families to be His disciples, many are shocked. “This is just too harsh,” many might say. Then, the next line seems even worse–we must hate our very lives! No doubt, many that heard these words turned and walked away, thinking the sacrifices were too much.

Did Jesus really mean we should hate our parents, in contradiction with the laws of Moses? Did Jesus really mean that we should hate our lives, while He loved every life he encountered? Perhaps, but the message is much deeper than this. Jesus wanted His followers to realize that the reward–the pearl of great price–was of such value that we must be willing to sacrifice all for it. He also wants His followers to realize that their lives are in constant need of change and conversion and we should hate our sinful selves and strive for holiness. Finally, He knows that material belongings can quickly become idols, drawing our attention away from Him.

Yes, the demands are great, but so is the ending. Jesus was very up front in saying that following Him was not easy, but nothing that is worth having is gained without sacrifice.

- Don Claunch, SFO
(dlclaunch at bresnan dot net)

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The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, November 7, 2006
Tuesday of the Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Philippians 2:5-11
Psalm 22:26b-27, 28-30ab, 30e, 31-32
Luke 14:15-24

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

In today’s Gospel we hear about the man who prepared a large dinner and invited many guests. When dinner was to begin, many of them began to make excuses about why they suddenly were unable to come.

The excuses that were given tell us a lot about human nature and hopefully allow us an opportunity to reflect on how we, in our own way, are often like the invited guests and make excuses for not accepting the Lord’s invitation to be in His presence.

Like the “no show” dinner guests, do we value the accumulation of possessions more than obtaining greater virtue . . . and do we value human relationships rather than those that guarantee us heaven?

Our answers should startle us if they are in the affirmative, especially when we hear that those who were invited and chose instead not to come “will not taste a morsel” of the heavenly banquet that the Lord has prepared.

Let us not remain foolish, but pray for wisdom to “number rightly, our days.” In other words let us get things straight, our priorities in order and stop flirting with the loss of heaven, “eternal disaster” as Fr. Thomas Dubay so aptly describes it.

- Donna Nelson, OCDS
(drn3rd at hughes dot net)

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Dear friends, visitors and RSS'ers:

I have received some encouraging comments from several viewers of this weblog and will try to continue posting it as long as possible. Comments and suggestions will be appreciated, so please email me at any time. My email address is located in the left-side column below.

Thanks for your continued interest and prayers.

May God bless you!

- Joachim, OCDS

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The Catholic Calendar for Monday, November 6, 2006
Monday of the Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Philippians 2:1-4
Psalm 131:1bcde, 2, 3
Luke 14:12-14

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Jesus calls us to invite the needy to our banquet table. His message doesn’t discourage us from welcoming friends, family and wealthy neighbors, but asks that we bear in mind our intentions. It’s against human nature to give lavishly without looking for repayment. But Jesus insists that we give without expectations. How do we do that?

Perhaps we can start by practicing generosity toward those with no means of reciprocation. Consider the young lady in prison without loved ones to send money for an occasional luxury such as a soda or bag of chips. The retired nun on a small income, standing in the grocery checkout line. The father of nine, longing to take all of his children to a ballgame, but can’t afford one ticket. The poor beggar with nothing but her clothes and unassuming nature. We may find it’s easier to give without the prospect of receiving, when we give to such persons.

But something wonderful happens to us when we give of ourselves to the least of these. Jesus rewards us by bringing joy to our hearts. We become the needy ones; constantly looking for opportunities to encourage, until giving becomes a beautiful habit. Jesus’ gifts also begin to increase, as we find ourselves offering our support to the poor and affluent alike, with no expectation of receiving. Ultimately, we find ourselves longing to be like Him in love, and sharing that love with everyone.

So, as we enter this beautiful season of giving, let us be generous with all our brothers and sisters and recognize that our repayment comes from God alone. Our most precious reimbursement . . . His amazing grace.

Elizabeth A. Tichvon
(elizabethtichvon at comcast dot net)

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Dear friends, regular visitors, RSS'ers, and first-time bloggers:

Unless there is an overwhelming response to dissuade me, I will be discontinuing this weblog after Monday, November 6, 2006. With a great deal of regret, I will no longer post new meditations here.

Why?

The meditations already appear on our regular website. After several futile attempts at activating the comments feature on the weblog, my perception is that reposting the meditations here is simply a duplication of effort. I would like to hear from you if you have any ideas to share.

This is the last call for comments and suggestions, so please speak up now! Send an email as soon as possible to my address in the left-hand column below.

Thanks for your past interest and may God bless you!

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The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, November 5, 2006
Thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Deuteronomy 6:2-6
Psalm 18:2-3, 3-4, 47, 51
Hebrews 7:23-28
Mark 12:28b-34

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

This Sunday’s readings are all about love. They’re so familiar that we’re in great danger of not listening to what Jesus is really saying. So let’s “dig in” to find something in them that we haven’t understood before. Our new Pope, Benedict XVI, has recently done that for us in his very first Encyclical, God is Love. In it, he tells us that love is basically a journey that combines two kinds of love—possessive love (eros) and giving love (agape). Many people consider divine love and human love to be miles apart, both in their nature and in their practice. That’s because we identify divine love with spirit and human love with flesh. We think of one as very objective and disciplined, and the other as warm and passionate. The Pope tells us not to separate them that way. The Old Testament is full of references to God’s love for Israel as warm and passionate. God’s creative love is full of mystery and power, but God’s love for people is similar to human love…therefore perfect love includes both possessive love and giving love.

Isn’t that awesome! Love is a journey in which we gradually progress from imperfect love (loving God without loving our neighbor, or loving our neighbor without loving God), to perfect love which includes both. As the Pope says, we can’t always be giving of ourselves to others. We have to “fill up” on God’s love through prayer, as well as allowing other people to love us.

That’s why Jesus insists that there are two great commandments, and not just one.

If we exclude either one of them, we will not be complete human persons as God intends us to be. This wonderful work of Pope Benedict has given me insights I did not have before. And I know I have some ways to go yet on love’s journey.

Msgr. Paul Whitmore
(pwhitmore29 at yahoo dot com)

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The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, November 4, 2006
Saturday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Charles Borromeo, bishop

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Phil 1:18b-26
Psalm 42:2, 3, 5cdef
Luke 14:1, 7-11

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"Do not recline at table at the place of honor . . . ."

What our Lord teaches today is probably not much a problem for most of us, but it is always a good reminder. When you go into a meeting or into any place where there will be a lot of people, don't take the place of honor. Don't sit up-front only to find that you are asked to give up your seat for another that others find more worthy.

In a certain sense this is a test of our humility, but the Lord has embedded here another message. If you are a married lay-person, do not covet the position of priest. If you are a person serving the poor, do not covet the martyrs who give their lives. Take the place the Lord has set for you.

What He does not say, but which should be understood, is that every place at this table is a place of incredible honor. To be allowed to sit at table rather than to gather the scraps given to the poor is a privilege.

So, whatever your place at table, accept it--it will be a very, very good place and it serves the people of God.

- JuandelaCruz
(sriddle415 at yahoo dot com)

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The Catholic Calendar for Friday, November 3, 2006
Friday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Martin de Porres, religious

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Philippians 1:1-11
Psalm 111:1-6
Luke 14:1-6

A reflection on today's Scripture. . . .

"Who among you if your son or ox falls into a cistern would not immediately pull him out on the sabbath day?" (Luke 14:6)

St. Paul's letter to the Philippians prompts our meditating on the purpose of prayer and helps shed light on today's Gospel. He begins with a prayer for Christ's people to grow in God's love so they may live righteously and harmoniously. Growth in God's love is mainly accomplished by prayer, a sincere opening of our empty hearts to Him who gives us the ability through sanctifying grace to love as He loves, purely, selflessly and unconditionally. Effective prayer does not depend on words; it stems from a sincere motivation to deeply know and love God and consequently to make Him known to the world by how we live.

Christ's persecution and death were caused by Israel's religious elite who dressed the part, outwardly, kept the letter of the law, followed the prescribed rituals, but were devoid of God's love. Had they known the Father, they would have recognized His Son and rejoiced in His saving words. Instead they cared more about keeping their comfortable positions and authority than they did promoting their people's spiritual good. One example of their empty and loveless sabbath rules was the one broken by Christ in today's Gospel when He saved a man in heart failure from drowning in his own bodily fluids.

Times have changed vastly, but man's heart has not. Today many slothful Christians remain ignorant of their Faith's most basic tenets and prefer listening to unspiritual but purportedly "religious" leaders whose mouths are filled with grandiose words but whose hearts are empty of the love and truth of God. They, along with our mass media, gain popularity by appealing to human pride and selfishness. Yet hope lives on, for Christ never abandons His people, nor can the truly faithful ever abandon Him.

Blessed Lord, may our lives be like rivers overflowing with Your life-giving Spirit of love and truth, that Your constant presence in this world will draw others to You. Amen

- Marie Bocko, OCDS
(mlbocko at earthlink dot net)

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The Catholic Calendar for Thursday, November 2, 2006
Thursday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time
The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls)

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Reading I: Wisdom 3:1-9
Psalm 25:6 and 7b, 17-18, 20-21
Reading II: Romans 5:5-11
John 6:37-40

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

The Church has set aside today as a time to commemorate the souls of the faithful departed. It is an act of charity to pray for the deceased and many persons do so throughout the year. It is interesting to note the tone of the day as many of us become saddened as we recall the lives of our deceased family and friends and the relationships that we once enjoyed with them. But should we really be sad?

We need to recall that grief is about us, not the deceased. Our loved ones have already “passed the test” and are—we hope—reaping their just rewards. They are much more assured of eternity in heaven than we are. They are the fortunate ones! As stated in our first reading, "The souls of the just are in the hand of God. They are in peace." (Wisdom 3:1)

While we continue to pray for our loved ones and ask for their intercession we need to keep our own eyes on the mark: our relationship with Christ. As stated in the beautiful gospel of John for today, Christ said "I will not reject anyone who comes to me.”

- Joan of Jesus, OCDS
(jmurphy at utica dot edu)

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The Catholic Calendar for Wednesday, November 1, 2006
Solemnity of all Saints

Today is a Holyday of Obligation!
Check your local diocesan regulations,
and please read this first:
http://www.catholicculture.org/docs/doc_view.cfm?recnum=1371

Readings from the Liturgy of the Word:
Revelation 7:2-4, 9-14
Psalm 24:1bc-2, 3-4ab, 5-6
1 John 3:1-3
Matthew 5:1-12a

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

Who has seen the face of God? The apostles, disciples and many others saw the face of the Lord in his human form, but who has actually seen the face of the Almighty? Moses probably was the closest to looking at Him directly while he was alive on earth. Moses was a very holy man and even he could not look directly at the glory of God. So can anyone?

The psalmist asks the same question today:
“Who can ascend the mountain of the LORD?
or who may stand in His holy place?”

He then answers his own question, “One whose hands are sinless, whose heart is clean, who desires not what is vain.”

Who are these people? Certainly they are the saints who have gone before us, both those we know and the many countless others who remain nameless across time. These are the ones who found holiness in such a degree to stand before and gaze upon God Himself.

The psalmist promises that, “He shall receive a blessing from the LORD, a reward from God his savior.” And this is true for the saints who we recognize today and for all of us who Love God and seek His face.

- Don Claunch, SFO
(dlclaunch at bresnan dot net)

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