Podcasts about gospel reading luke

Asking in Jesus' Name: What It Really Means to Pray This Homily centers on the meaning and importance of prayer, . . . . . . particularly as shown through the readings of the day. The Homily acknowledges the frustration many Christians feel when prayers seem unanswered and addresses why persistent, faithful prayer is essential. Drawing on the example of Abraham interceding for Sodom, the Homily emphasizes that prayer requires trust, like Abraham's friendship with God. It is a relationship, not a transaction. Jesus teaches us to pray by calling God “Father,” which implies intimacy and trust. Just as manna could only be gathered daily in the wilderness, so too must prayer be a daily act of dependence. The Homily explains three key attitudes in prayer: 1. Trust/Faith – We believe God hears and answers in the best way. 2. Persistence – Like Abraham, we must not give up. 3. Reciprocity – We must be willing to give what we ask for (e.g., forgiveness, food, mercy). Ultimately, prayer in Jesus' name must reflect His love and justice. It cannot be selfish or vengeful. The message concludes by encouraging believers to grow in their personal relationship with God, as true prayer is rooted in that bond. How? Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to Asking in Jesus' Name: What It Really Means to Pray ------------------------------------------------------------ The Virgin in Prayer: Painter: Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato: 1645 ------------------------------------------------------------ Gospel Reading Luke 11: 1-13 First Reading Genesis 18: 20-32 Second Reading Colossians 2: 12-14

Gospel Reading: Luke 11:1-13 Gospel Reading: John 13:21-25

Gospel Reading: Luke 11:1-13

Gospel Reading Luke 10:38-42 Gospel Reading Matthew 26:47-51, 55-56

Gospel Reading: Luke 10:38-42

This encore podcast "Jesus Sustains Me" on the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C first aired on July 17, 2022. Listen carefully to the readings and join Dina Marie for this reflection on the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C. Resources used in this recording are: Magnificat July 2022 Vol. 24, No. 5 https://us.magnificat.net/ The Word Among Us Daily Meditations for July/August 2022. www.WAU.ORG 2022 Workbook for Lectors, Gospel Readers, and Proclaimers of the Word: United States Edition www.LTP.org The readings for the Mass on the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Genesis 18:1-10a Psalm 15: He who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord. Colossians 1:24-28 Gospel Reading: Luke 10:38-42 For the daily liturgical readings visit: www.usccb.org or www.wau.org The podcast of this program is at www.materdeiradio.com.

Christ, Our First Neighbor: The Call to Go and Do Likewise The Homily initially reflects on a personal experience during a visa interview . . . . . . where the identity as a priest was questioned, drawing a parallel to the Gospel account in which a lawyer tests Jesus' identity and authority. Jesus responds with the parable of the Good Samaritan, shifting the focus from the legalistic question “Who is my neighbor?” to the deeper reality that Christ Himself has become a neighbor to humanity. In the parable, the journey from Jerusalem (symbolizing a movement away from God) represents humanity's fall, with the wounded man symbolizing sinful, broken people. The priest and Levite, themselves on a path away from God, are unable to help. It is the Good Samaritan . . . symbolizing Jesus . . . who shows compassion, heals, and restores the wounded man, a clear symbol for Christ's saving work through the sacraments and His incarnation. Christ has Made Himself Our Neighbor The key message: because Christ has made Himself our neighbor through love, compassion, and sacrifice, we are now commissioned to become neighbors to others . . . especially those in need, those who mourn, and those seeking forgiveness or assistance. Our ability to love others flows from having first received Christ's love ourselves. Listen more to: Christ, Our First Neighbor: The Call to Go and Do Likewise ----------------------------------------------------------------- The Good Samaritan: Dutch Painter: Rembrandt: 1630 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke 10: 25-37 First Reading: Deuteronomy 30: 10-14 Second Reading: Colossians 1: 15-20

Gospel Reading: Luke: 10:25-37 Gospel Reading: Matthew 16:13-17, 20-24

Gospel Reading: Luke 10:25-37

Today, we are joined by Rev. Chip Robinson as our Supply Pastor for July (and part of August).  Rev. Chip previously served our congregation on Easter Sunday of this year. Gospel Reading: Luke 10:1-11, 16-20

Gospel Reading: Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 Gospel Reading: John 16:33

Gospel Reading: Luke 9:51-62

The Two Most Important Days in Our Lives: Birth and Purpose The Homily focuses on the significance of the Nativity of John the Baptist, . . . . . . one of only three birthdays celebrated in the Catholic liturgical calendar (the others being Jesus Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary). The Homily highlights John's miraculous birth through the prayers of his elderly parents, his divine calling from the womb, and his faithful fulfillment of his life's purpose: to prepare the way for Christ and bear witness to the truth. There are Two Crucial Days in Each Person's Life The Homily also emphasizes the importance of discovering our God-given purpose, recalling that there are two crucial days in each person's life . . . the day we are born and the day we understand why. Through John's example, the homily invites us to seek their purpose in God's plan and to live it out with humility and faithfulness. Listen to: The Two Most Important Days in Our Lives: Birth and Purpose --------------------------------------------------------------------- Quote From The Homily And that is why there is this great saying, which says, there are two days true, important days in our life. The first one is when we are born. The second one is when we realize why we were born. The second one is when we realize the purpose that God has set for us and we start journeying towards that. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The Birth of Saint John the Baptist: Sanish Artist: Bartolomé Estebán Murillo: 1655 --------------------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke 1: 57-66, 80 First Reading: Isaiah 49: 1-6

Gospel Reading: Luke 8:26-39

SEQUENCE HYMN # 435 At the Name of JesusAll stand. GOSPEL READING Luke 19:28-40PriestThe Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke.PeopleGlory to you, Lord Christ.After telling a parable to the crowd at Jericho, Jesus went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. When he had come near Bethphage and Bethany, at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of the disciples, saying, "Go into the village ahead of you, and as you enter it you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' just say this, 'The Lord needs it.'" So those who were sent departed and found it as he had told them. As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, "Why are you untying the colt?" They said, "The Lord needs it." Then they brought it to Jesus; and after throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. As he rode along, people kept spreading their cloaks on the road. As he was now approaching the path down from the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of power that they had seen, saying,"Blessed is the kingwho comes in the name of the Lord!Peace in heaven,and glory in the highest heaven!"Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, order your disciples to stop." He answered, "I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out."PriestThe Gospel of the Lord.PeoplePraise to you, Lord Christ. THE SERMON

Gospel Reading: Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32

Sermon: "Party Pooping vs. Pig Pen Hopping"Gospel Reading: Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

Gospel Reading: Luke 13:1-9

More Than the Desert: Rediscovering Lent Through the Mountain It is generally the case as we move through the season of Lent. . . . . . that we hear the statement that during Lent, we are in the desert with Jesus. And that's true, but only to a certain extent. The church has a much fuller understanding of the season of Lent than simply being in the desert with Jesus. And that's because the desert doesn't go anywhere, and Lent does. The Homily explores the deeper meaning of Lent beyond the common notion of simply “being in the desert with Jesus.” While the desert symbolizes the struggle of human life and temptation, Lent is not meant to leave us there. Instead, it's a journey — a movement with Christ toward transformation and salvation, culminating in the celebration of Easter. The Church Uses Three Symbolic Models to Understand Lent The Church uses three symbolic models to understand Lent: the desert, the mountain of the Transfiguration, and the journey to Jerusalem. The desert represents the harsh reality of a world hostile to goodness, but Christ meets us there to lead us onward. The mountain of the Transfiguration reveals another dimension of Lent — an ascent with Christ, where distractions fall away, our spiritual vision sharpens, and we encounter divine light and truth. This mountaintop experience is not just a metaphor but a preparation for the Resurrection. It reveals Christ's divine glory and reassures us of the destination: eternal life and glory, not just hardship or sacrifice. The Transfiguration calls us to deeper listening and seeing — to lift our hearts, clarify our vision, and engage more fully in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Ultimately, the Homily culminates in the Eucharist, where Christ not only invites us to look and listen but to receive Him fully into our hearts. Lent is not just about abstaining but about ascending — spiritually rising with Christ toward His glory and our transformation. Listen more within this Meditation Media listen to: More Than the Desert: Rediscovering Lent Through the Mountain ------------------------------------- Image: Transfiguration: Danish Painter: Carl Bloch:  1872 ------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke 9: 28-36 First Reading: Genesis 15: 5-12, 17-18 Second Reading: Philippians 3: 17—4: 1

Gospel Reading: Luke 13:31-35 Today, we welcome Rev. Brad Wolff back to Holy Trinity, who has served our congregation many times in the past, while Pastor Luther takes a much-deserved vacation.

The Cross, the Choice, and the Call to Follow It sounds so deceptively simple. I place before you life or death and you get to choose. I place before you, the blessing and the curse, and you can take your pick. And when you put it that directly and that bluntly, it seems like this is just the ultimate no-brainer. Well, of course, I am taking life all day long and yet hidden with that simple pairing of opposites is a sobering reality. The Homily centers on the powerful and deceptively simple biblical invitation: “Choose life or death.” While it seems like an obvious choice, however, many don't truly understand what choosing life entails. It's not about chasing dreams or material comfort, but about choosing God and living according to His will. Moses, standing before the Israelites on the threshold of the Promised Land, urges them to remember that true life comes from obedience to God, not merely from achieving external goals. Choice and the Connection With Lent This message is deeply connected to the purpose of Lent, which is not valuable on its own but serves as a preparation for Easter. The season invites believers into self-denial, reflection, and a deeper commitment to follow Christ daily—not just in words or superficial gestures, but through intentional, ongoing decisions to walk in God's ways. The Gospel call to take up one's cross daily is emphasized as the core spiritual discipline of Lent. Ultimately, choosing life is choosing Christ, and this choice must be reaffirmed in daily actions and decisions—not someday, but today. Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to: The Cross, the Choice, and the Call to Follow ------------------------------------------ Image: Christ Carrying His Cross: Italian Painter: El Greco: 1580 The painting resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, NY. ------------------------------------------ Gospel Reading: Luke 9: 22-25 First Reading: Deuteronomy 30: 15-20

Gospel Reading: Luke 4:1-13

Gospel Reading: Luke 9:28-43a

Gospel Reading: Luke 9:28-43a

Walking in Wisdom: Preparing for Lent with Sirach As the Catholic Church approaches the Lenten season; we stand at the threshold of a sacred time—a time to reflect on the profound mystery of our salvation and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Lent calls us to renew our baptismal promises and deepen our spiritual journey. But why is this reflection so essential? Discover more in today's homily. A Time for Preparation Lent is a season of preparation, especially for those seeking baptism into Christ. The Church, through today's readings, imparts wisdom that arises from daily life experiences. One such reading comes from the Book of Sirach—unique among Old Testament wisdom literature because its author, Yeshua ben Eleazar ben Sira (or Ben Sira), identifies himself. His purpose is clear: to emphasize that true wisdom is found in following God's commandments. The depth of our understanding and spiritual growth is revealed through the choices we make and the way we live each day. Sirach Teaches Us About Wisdom Ben Sira teaches that wisdom is most clearly expressed in our speech. A person's words immediately reveal the depth of their understanding and character. Furthermore, he speaks of the heart—not merely as a physical organ but as the core of our authentic self. A heart rooted in truth manifests itself through acts of love, compassion, and charity. Our words and actions ultimately reflect the condition of our hearts. So, how do we care for our hearts? How do we nurture our true selves in faith and wisdom? Let us take to heart the lesson from Sirach, embracing the journey of Lent as a time for transformation and spiritual renewal. Listen to this Meditation Media. Walking in Wisdom: Preparing for Lent with Sirach -------------------------------------------- Image: Sirach: German Artist: Julius Schnorr von Karolsfeld: 1860 -------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke 6: 39-45 First Reading: Sirach 27: 4-7 Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 15: 54-58

The Strength of Restraint: Lessons from David and Jesus The Homily reflects on a challenging Gospel passage that urges . . . . . . believers to transcend the natural human desire for revenge and vindication. Using the Old Testament story of David sparing King Saul's life as an example, the Homily highlights the importance of choosing mercy over retaliation, even when given the power to strike back. This message is reinforced by Jesus' teachings, which challenge his followers to go beyond basic goodness and be truly set apart through acts of patience, mercy, and generosity. Jesus calls his disciples to a higher standard—not just loving friends and family but also showing kindness to enemies and responding to hostility with grace. The Homily illustrates how unchecked anger and resentment diminish a person's character, emphasizing that true strength lies in restraint and forgiveness. St. Joseph Custom The Homily concludes with a call to generosity, tying it to the tradition of the St. Joseph Altar, where food donations symbolize an abundance of kindness and concern for those in need. Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to: The Strength of Restraint: Lessons from David and Jesus --------------------------- Image: King David – the King of Israel: Dutch Painter: Gerard van Honthorst:  1622 King David playing the harp. --------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke 6:27-38 First Reading: 1 Samuel 26: 2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23 Second: Reading: 1 Corinthians 15: 45-49

Gospel Reading: Luke 6:27-36

Gospel Reading: Luke 6:27-38

Turning Hearts to God: The Key to Eternal Life Today's readings guide us to seek something that never ends—eternal and everlasting blessings. In the first reading from the book of Jeremiah, we encounter two types of people: those who are cursed and those who are blessed. Jeremiah warns, “Cursed is the one who trusts in human beings.” This prompts us to pause and reflect: In our families, we naturally place trust in our spouses, children, and loved ones. So, is it wrong to trust them? Jeremiah continues, “Cursed is the one who seeks strength in the flesh.” If Our Trust . . . The key message he delivers is this: Cursed is the one who turns their heart away from God. If our trust in people, in ourselves, or in our wealth leads us away from God, then we are truly cursed. In the Gospel, Jesus declares, “Woe to you who are rich! Woe to you who laugh now! Woe to you who are praised!” Again, we must pause and ask: Is it wrong to be wealthy? Is it wrong to be joyful or to receive praise? Certainly not. But if our wealth, happiness, or praise lead us to believe we are self-sufficient, distancing us from God, then woe to us indeed. Jeremiah continues his message: We are cursed when we place ultimate trust in people. We are cursed when we rely solely on our own strength. We are cursed when our hearts turn away from God. Why is this so? Because we become like a barren bush in the desert, deprived of life-giving water, unable to bear fruit. Without God, we lack true life and vitality. Woe to us if we turn our hearts away from Him. But there is hope. Jeremiah also speaks of a second group: “Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose hope is in the Lord.” In the Gospel, Jesus echoes this by saying: “Blessed are the poor.” “Blessed are those who weep.” “Blessed are those who hunger.” “Blessed are those who are persecuted.” We might wonder: Is it good to be poor or hungry? Is it good to suffer or be persecuted? No. God did not create us for suffering or sorrow. But blessed are we when we place our complete trust in the Lord, for He is the source of life. The second reading reinforces this by reminding us that life does not end here. Christ rose from the dead, becoming the first fruit of the resurrection. Those who trust in the Lord receive blessings that extend beyond this life—eternal blessings that lead to resurrection and everlasting life. What is the lesson from today's readings? Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to: Turning Hearts to God: The Key to Eternal Life --------------------------------- Image: Christ and the Rich Young Ruler: German Painter: Heinrich Hoffman:  1889 --------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke 6: 17,20-26 First Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-8 Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:12, 16-20

Old Testament Reading Jeremiah 17:5-10 Gospel Reading Luke 6:17-26

Gospel Reading: Luke 6:17-26 For the second Sunday in a row, we were forced to move to an Online Service because of a snowstorm.

Gospel Reading: Luke 5:1-11. Due to the weekend snowstorm, we moved our service to Zoom.  Please excuse the quality of the audio.

Gospel Reading: Luke 5:1-11

Gospel Reading: Luke 2:22-40

When God Enters His Temple: The Mystery of the Presentation A Light Revealed: The Feast of the Presentation We begin with candles—simple yet profound. By doing something so unusual, the Church signals that today's feast is anything but ordinary. The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas, begins with the lighting of candles, the blessing of the very instruments that will illuminate our worship and homes. This ritual reminds us of the deeper truth at the heart of this celebration: the light we honor today has a name. His name is Jesus Christ. As proclaimed in the Gospel, He is the “light of revelation to the Gentiles” and the “glory of Israel“—not hidden but revealed for all nations to see. This is no mere commemoration of Mary and Joseph bringing their child to the temple. Rather, the greater mystery we celebrate today is the Lord presenting Himself. Scripture tells us, “Suddenly the Lord whom you seek will appear in the temple.” At first, this may seem odd—shouldn't the Lord always be found in His temple? And yet, this verse speaks of something deeper, an intensification of divine presence. The Lord is not merely invoked or symbolized here. He is truly present, personally, physically, as the Incarnate Word, entering the temple not just spiritually but in human flesh. God's Presence Revealed to the World What a contrast! The grandeur of God's presence—His infinite majesty—contained within the small, fragile frame of an infant. In the midst of temple sacrifices, the very God to whom those offerings are made is among His people, gazing upon the worship offered in His name. But this is no ordinary gaze—it is the eye of God Himself, beholding His people, receiving their prayers, and preparing the ultimate sacrifice that will redeem them all. This is the mystery of today's feast: the glory of God made manifest in the temple; the Lord who was sought now present among us. Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to: When God Enters His Temple: The Mystery of the Presentation *************************************** Image Simeon In The Temple: Dutch Painter: Rembrandt: 1631 *************************************** Gospel Reading: Luke 2:22-40 First Reading: Malachi 3: 1-4 Second Reading: Hebrews 2: 14-18

Gospel Reading Luke 4:21-30  

Gospel Reading- Luke 4:21-30 Key Verse- And He said, "Truly I tell you, no prophet is accepted in his hometown."

Gospel Reading: Luke 2:22-40At that time, the parents brought the child Jesus up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, "Every male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord") and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, "a pair of turtle doves, or two young pigeons." Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Symeon, and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And inspired by the Spirit he came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law, he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,"Lord, now let your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel."And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him; and Symeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher; she was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity, and as a widow till she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. And coming up at that very hour she gave thanks to God, and spoke of him to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem. And when they had performed everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.

Old Testament Reading: Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10 Gospel Reading: Luke 4:14-21

Gospel Reading: Luke 4:14-21

Gospel Reading: Luke 19:1-10At that time, Jesus was passing through Jericho. And there was a man named Zacchaios; he was a chief collector, and rich. And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not, on account of the crowd, because he was small of stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaios, make haste and come down; for I must stay at your house today." So he made haste and came down, and received him joyfully. And when they saw it they all murmured, "He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner." And Zacchaios stood and said to the Lord, "Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have defrauded any one of anything, I restore it fourfold." And Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man came to seek and to save the lost."

Gospel Reading: Luke 17:12-19At that time, as Jesus entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said: "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us." When he saw them he said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus's feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then said Jesus: "Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" And he said to him: "Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well."

Gospel Reading: Luke 3:15-17, 21-22

Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 43:1-7 Gospel Reading: Luke 3:15-17, 21-22

Gospel Reading: Luke 1:1-14

The Root of Jesse and the Bloom of Christ: An Advent Meditation The entrance antiphon for today's Mass reflects a powerful image. “A shoot shall sprout from the root of Jesse.” Sometimes translated as “from the stump of Jesse,” this image resonates deeply when we pause to consider its implications. A stump represents what remains after a tree has been cut down, a remnant of something once towering and alive. To envision a shoot springing from such a root is to witness life emerging from death, hope bursting forth where none seemed possible. The Promise of New Life This imagery encapsulates a central theme of Advent—the promise of new life. The shoot symbolizes the Blessed Virgin Mary, not Jesus directly. From the fallen line of Jesse and David, Mary emerges as the life-bearing shoot, preparing the way for the bloom and fruit to come. Jesus, the Messiah, is the flower and fruit of this miraculous shoot, fulfilling the promise of salvation. Today's Scripture readings highlight this theme, beginning with Isaiah's interaction with King Ahaz. Ahaz, a corrupt and faithless ruler, faces an existential crisis as enemies threaten to destroy his kingdom. Despite his moral failings, God speaks to him through the prophet Isaiah, offering a remarkable opportunity: “Ask the Lord for a sign, as high as the heavens or as deep as the earth.” But Ahaz, cloaked in false humility, refuses, demonstrating cowardice rather than trust. Isaiah's response, both exasperated and resolute, conveys a divine truth: human hopelessness and indifference do not limit God's action. God, through Isaiah, declares, “The Lord Himself will give you a sign: the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.” This prophecy transcends Ahaz's faithlessness, pointing to the ultimate sign of hope and salvation. The Virgin Mary is this Sign The Virgin Mary is this sign. Unlike Ahaz, she responds to God's call with openness and faith. When the angel Gabriel announces her role in salvation history, her question—“How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?”—is not one of disbelief but of wonder at the divine mystery. Her willing acceptance reveals her as the singular shoot through which God's promise is fulfilled. Jesus, born of Mary, embodies the salvation foretold by Isaiah. This interplay of prophecy, hope, and fulfillment serves as a powerful reminder during Advent. In the face of sin and darkness, God's promises stand firm. He calls us to hope, to look beyond present struggles, and to trust in His plan—a plan fulfilled in Mary and brought to fruition in Jesus, the Savior. Listen to this Meditation Media. listen to: -------------------------------- Image: The Root of Jesse and the Bloom of Christ: An Advent Meditation The Tree of Jesse: French Artist and Painter: Jacques de Besançon: 1485 The top shows 43 generations within the family tree. The bottom section, the birth and childhood of Mary. The Tree of Jesse is a depiction in art of the ancestors of Jesus Christ, shown in a branching tree which rises from Jesse of Bethlehem, the father of King David. It is, perhaps, the original use of the family tree as a diagram / piece of art representation of a genealogy. -------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke: 1:26-38 First Reading: Is 7:10-14

Gospel Reading: Luke 1:39-45

God's Call to Each of Us This Christmas As Christmas draws near, we find ourselves immersed in the exchange of greetings. These greetings come in many forms—gifts, cards, words, and heartfelt messages. Yet, they hold a deeper significance beyond their outward expressions. Giving Inspired by God When a gift is given, it can transcend its material value, especially when inspired by God. Such gifts and words have the power to transform lives, bringing light and change to those who receive them. In these final days of Advent and during the Christmas season, our greetings—be they spoken wishes, acts of kindness, or tokens of peace—carry profound meaning when they are divinely inspired. But this season calls for reflection: What kind of greetings are we offering to others as Christmas approaches? And perhaps more importantly, what kind of greetings are we open to receiving? We are reminded that we cannot give what we do not possess. Only when we truly embrace and are convinced of the blessings we've received from God can we share them authentically with others. The first reading offers a powerful example: God's greeting to Bethlehem. A small and seemingly insignificant city, Bethlehem was chosen not for its fame or achievements but as part of God's divine plan. Despite its humble stature, Bethlehem was destined to play a pivotal role: “Through you shall come forth a king of Israel.” God Calls Upon Each of Us This moment teaches us a profound lesson. Even in our weakness, smallness, or lack of influence, God calls each of us to play a role in His plan of salvation. Just as Bethlehem was chosen despite its modesty, we too are invited to recognize our purpose and embrace the role God has entrusted to us. “We have all been saved, but not yet.” There is still work to be done, even in our imperfection. Let this be a season where we reflect on how our greetings—our actions, words, and gifts—fit into God's grand design. Listen to this meditation and reflect: What remains for our salvation, and how can our Christmas greetings become a part of God's transformative plan? Listen to: God's Call to Each of Us This Christmas ------------------------------- Image: Adoration of the Shepherds: Dutch Painter: Gerard van Honthorst: 1622 Notice the use of light in the painting. He was known as a painter that utilized light in his paintings. ------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke: 1: 39-45 First Reading: Mi 5:1-4 Second Reading: Heb 10: 5-10

Discovering the Transformative Love of God In all circumstances, give thanks to the Lord. This timeless truth is exemplified in the story of a little boy who once asked a priest, “Am I going to meet God one day?” The priest confidently replied, “For sure, God will meet you one day.” A few years later, the boy was diagnosed with cancer, and doctors informed him he had only six months to live. Faced with this devastating news, the boy's father expressed his sorrow, saying, “John, I'm so sorry to hear this.” But the boy replied, “Yes, it's sad, but it could have been worse. I give thanks to the Lord.” Confused, the boy was asked, “What could have been worse?” The boy responded, “Living over 90 years without discovering the love of God. It's better to live just 24 years, as I have, knowing that God loves me. It would have been a waste if I hadn't discovered this love.” Two months later, the boy passed away, but with a heart full of gratitude and joy, having encountered the transformative love of God. Cleansed vs. Healed Today's readings call us to gratitude, just as the story of the ten lepers in the Gospel teaches. All ten called out to Jesus, “Master, have pity on us,” and Jesus, moved with compassion, told them to show themselves to the priests. On their way, all ten were cleansed. However, only one—a Samaritan—returned to thank Jesus. Why did the others not return? Perhaps they were too overjoyed or took their healing for granted. The key distinction here is that all were cleansed externally, but the Samaritan realized he had been healed internally. Healing involves transformation, a deeper recognition of God's presence and power in our lives. This story challenges us to reflect: how often do we take life's blessings for granted? How often do we credit ourselves for our successes, failing to see God's hand at work? Gratitude involves more than acknowledging the gift; it is about recognizing and cherishing the Giver. An Encounter with Christ is Transformative St. Paul reminds us that an encounter with Christ is transformative. Being touched by His love changes us, moving us from cleansing to healing, and from healing to glorifying God. Like the boy who discovered God's love and the Samaritan who returned to Jesus, our lives can be transformed when we live with hearts full of gratitude and worship. Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to: Discovering the Transformative Love of God ------------------------------- Image: God the Father Painting: Italian Painter: Giovanni Battista Cima: 1510-1517 ------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke: 17: 11-19 First Reading: Ti 3: 1-7

What Jesus' Parable Teaches About Faithful Devotion In Luke 17, Jesus teaches His disciples about forgiveness. When Peter asks how many times, they should forgive those who offend them, Jesus provides an answer that challenges their understanding. In response, the disciples say, “Lord, increase our faith,” recognizing that forgiveness is a deeply difficult act. Jesus then offers them a powerful illustration. He explains that even faith as small as a mustard seed can accomplish great things, such as commanding a mountain to uproot and move. To deepen their understanding, Jesus shares a parable about a servant. Faith is Revealed Through Humble Service In the parable, a servant works all day and comes home tired and hungry, only to be told by his master to prepare a meal before taking care of his own needs. From a human perspective, this may seem unfair, even harsh. But Jesus uses this example to emphasize a key lesson: faith is revealed through humble service. Genuine, pure, and sincere faith manifests in complete trust and wholehearted devotion to God. Jesus challenges His followers to adopt the attitude of total service to God, just as a servant faithfully serves their master. This relationship highlights that true faith is not just about belief but about living in full surrender and trust in God's authority. Listen to more within this Meditation Media. Listen to: What Jesus' Parable Teaches About Faithful Devotion ------------------------------------- Image: Parable of the Mustard Seed: Dutch Poet, Illustrator and Engraver: Jan Luyken: (lived) 1649-1712 ------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke: 17: 7-10 First Reading: Ti 2:1-8, 11-14