Podcasts about matthew mt

From the responsorial psalm: “The LORD said to me, 'You are my Son; this day I have begotten you. Ask of me and I will give you the nations for an inheritance and the ends of the earth for your possession.'" I will give you all the nations for an inheritance. A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 4:12-17, 23-25) His fame spread to all of Syria, and they brought to him all who were sick with various diseases and racked with pain, those who were possessed, lunatics, and paralytics, and he cured them. "Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand." With these words, Jesus picks up where John left off after he had been arrested. The mission of Jesus begins to unfold in Galilee as he teaches in the synagogues, proclaims the kingdom of God, and cures every disease and illness. In doing this, Jesus fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah: "Galilee of the Gentiles, the people who sit in darkness have seen a great light, on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death light has arisen." And the light he brings is healing to those whose illnesses are physical, mental, and spiritual. He continues to do that today. God, give me the grace and wisdom to do as great crowds did in following Jesus. The Gospel acclamation says, "Jesus proclaimed the Gospel of the Kingdom and cured every disease among the people." Strengthen my faith, Lord. Nourish me through the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, where you are truly present—body and blood, soul and divinity. Be my light in the darkness, and throughout the day let me trust in your merciful care and power to heal mind, body, and soul. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

From the responsorial psalm: “For he shall rescue the poor when he cries out, and the afflicted when he has no one to help him. He shall have pity for the lowly and the poor; the lives of the poor he shall save. Lord, every nation on earth will adore you." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 2:1-12) When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.”

Feast of the Holy Innocents, martyrs From the responsorial psalm: “Had not the LORD been with us— When men rose up against us, then would they have swallowed us alive, When their fury was inflamed against us. Our soul has been rescued like a bird from the fowler's snare." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 2:13-18) When the magi had departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him." Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt. Matthew describes the events surrounding the flight of the Holy Family into Egypt to escape King Herod's decree to kill all male infants in Bethlehem. An attempt to maintain absolute control, . . . --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

From the responsorial psalm: "Into your hands I commend my spirit; you will redeem me, O LORD, O faithful God. I will rejoice and be glad because of your mercy. Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 10:17-22) Jesus said to his disciples: "Beware of men, for they will hand you over to courts and scourge you in their synagogues, and you will be led before governors and kings for my sake as a witness before them and the pagans. When they hand you over, do not worry about how you are to speak or what you are to say. You will be given at that moment what you are to say. For it will not be you who speak but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you." Jesus describes to the disciples the truth about discipleship, which Saint Stephen experiences as the first martyr in the reading from the Acts of the Apostles. In saying "Beware of men," Jesus contrasts human sin with supernatural grace. . . --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

Today's antiphon, O Adonai: O Leader of the House of Israel, giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai: come to rescue us with your mighty power! (Isaiah 11:4–5; 33:22) A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 1:18-25) Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." Matthew's account of the birth of Jesus gives us a glimpse into Joseph's submission to God's will. Under the circumstances, his intention was to divorce Mary quietly until the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. Among his first words after identifying Joseph by his Davidic lineage, the angel tells him not to be afraid. Surely, he must have been greatly relieved—overjoyed—to hear that the woman he loved, to whom he is betrothed, remained a virgin. Matthew tells us that all this took place to fulfill what had been said through the prophet, "Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel." When Joseph awakes, he does what the angel commands him and takes Mary into his home. Jesus, Son of God and son of the Virgin Mary, is born to the world fully divine and fully human. God, help me see Joseph as a model of obedience to your will. Although silent and docile, Joseph speaks clearly as he moves from deciding to divorce Mary quietly to taking his wife into his home as the angel commanded. The transformation he experienced is one that I can seek today and every day, allowing my plans to become overshadowed by God's. The plans I make, the things I decide, are bound ultimately to fail unless I allow you to do your will through me. "If the Lord does not build the house," the psalmist prays, "in vain do its builders labor." Give me the grace, Lord, to know your will and carry it out joyfully. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

Today's antiphon, O Sapientia: O Wisdom of our God Most High, guiding creation with power and love: come to teach us the path of knowledge! (Isaiah 11:2–3; 28:29) A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 1:1-17) Eleazar became the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ. Presenting the genealogy of Jesus Christ, Matthew traces the lineage of Jesus from Abraham through David to Joseph, the husband of Mary. By his direct connection from Abraham and David, from David to the exile in Babylon, and from the exile to Jesus, Matthew provides a genealogy that establishes Jesus as the Messiah in fulfilling all of God's promises to the patriarchs. These are the credentials of Jesus the Messiah, establishing his identity. In other words, Jesus is in truth who he claims to be. By including a long list of names, forty-two generations, Matthew provides not only a historical account but also the context of Jesus' birth within all the breadth of salvation history. God, you are Wisdom Most High who guides all of creation by your power and love. Teach me the path to knowledge of you. What is there in human wisdom that could compare with yours? Give me the grace to hear and receive your wisdom through scriptures, through the Holy Spirit, and through the sacraments of the Church. You are love itself. Guide me today in your love and make me your instrument; teach me to depend on you, trusting in the way you lead. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

From the responsorial psalm: “Your ways, O LORD, make known to me; teach me your paths, Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior. Teach me your ways, O Lord.” A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 21:23-27) Jesus said to them in reply, “I shall ask you one question, and if you answer it for me, then I shall tell you by what authority I do these things. Where was John's baptism from? Was it of heavenly or of human origin?” Jesus is teaching in the temple when the chief priests and elders approach and question him. He responds with another question. The chief priests and elders deliberate among themselves as they face a dilemma. Through his questioning, Jesus reveals their hypocrisy and the complexities they wrestle with in recognizing divine authority, setting the stage for the continuing conflict that would lead to Jesus' passion and death. Ultimately, the leaders say, “We do not know.” This reflects their inability to see the truth about John and Jesus. God, help me see clearly in these remaining days of Advent that true authority rests in Jesus Christ your Son. The false authority of consumerism and innumerable media distractions would have me believe I can have at will a joyous Christmas season, and these falsehoods put Christmas ahead of Advent and not the other way. Give me the grace to recognize my true longing for Jesus, who comes as a child in a manger and definitively at the Second Coming on a cloud of glory with the authority to bring a new heaven and a new earth. Come, Lord Jesus, come! Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

From the responsorial psalm: "Once again, O LORD of hosts, look down from heaven, and see; Take care of this vine, and protect what your right hand has planted, the son of man whom you yourself made strong. Lord, make us turn to you; let us see your face and we shall be saved." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 17:9a, 10-13) As they were coming down from the mountain, the disciples asked Jesus, "Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?" He said in reply, "Elijah will indeed come and restore all things; but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him but did to him whatever they pleased. So also will the Son of Man suffer at their hands." Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them of John the Baptist. Jesus speaks to the disciples immediately after his transformation on the mountain, where Moses and Elijah appear to him. According to Jewish belief, Elijah would appear again before the coming of the Messiah. Jesus makes clear that Elijah has appeared again, referring to John the Baptist and his message of repentance and baptism. Just as people failed to listen to John, they will fail to listen to Jesus, rejecting him and putting him to death on a cross. In indicating that the disciples understand Jesus, Matthew expresses in his account that John brings to fulfillment the role of Elijah in the continuity between the greatest of prophets and the mission of Jesus. God, help me understand more deeply that regardless of what reality looks like on the surface, you have a plan. Jesus reveals this to the disciples, and in revealing it to them, reveals it to me. As the psalmist prays, in turning to you, we see your face and are saved. "Take care of this vine, and protect what your right hand has planted. . . ." In today's Gospel, Peter, James, and John had just witnessed the Transfiguration, and they were full of questions. In pondering your glory, Lord, help me turn more and more to your saving power, your plan for me; let me see your face. Saint John of the Cross, pray for us! Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

From the responsorial psalm: "Blessed the man who follows not the counsel of the wicked Nor walks in the way of sinners, nor sits in the company of the insolent, But delights in the law of the LORD and meditates on his law day and night. Those who follow you, Lord, will have the light of life." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 11:16-19) Jesus said to the crowds: "To what shall I compare this generation? It is like children who sit in marketplaces and call to one another, 'We played the flute for you, but you did not dance, we sang a dirge but you did not mourn.'" Jesus describes to the crowds two depictions of the kingdom of God. In neither of them do people of his generation participate in the revelation of God's presence. They regarded John's ascetism as insane and the full participation of Jesus within the community as sinful and indulgent. That leaves for them by their own choice an existence in limbo, neither here nor there. "But wisdom is vindicated by her works," Jesus tells them. And Isaiah, speaking the word of the LORD, says, "If you would hearken to my commandments, your prosperity would be like a river, and your vindication like the waves of the sea." To be forgotten by God is to choose to live apart from him in an oblivion that willfully stands outside of his presence. God, help me listen to your commandments. As you say through Isaiah, teach me what is for my good, and lead me on the way I should go. If the hope of prosperity isn't enough to lead me on or seems uncertain, give me the grace to desire always to remain in your presence. You, the Holy One of Israel, sent Jesus your Son as incarnate wisdom to lead us out of darkness and into the light of your face. Isn't that enough to follow where he goes? Saint Lucy, pray for us! Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

From the responsorial psalm: "Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all my being, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.  O bless the Lord, my soul!" A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 11:28-30) Jesus said to the crowds: "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves.  For my yoke is easy, and my burden light." The Lord who invites us to come to him when we are burdened and need rest is the same one in whom Isaiah tells us, "They that hope in the LORD will renew their strength. . . . They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint." And this is the same one we hear of in the Gospel acclamation: "Behold, the Lord comes to save his people; blessed are those prepared to meet him." So when the labor and burden and weariness do come, we have a source of infinite strength in the Lord who asks us to take up his yoke and find rest. God, it would seem easy for me to remember to come to you today as the day wears on and I grow tired. But it's often the opposite. I try harder to make the best of time, eagerly using the gifts and opportunities you give me, just as I should. Yet, why is it so hard to pause and allow myself to learn from you and to recognize that if I let you, you will be beside me to consecrate every effort and to consecrate time itself as your work unfolds? Give me the grace to pause throughout the day, attentive to the way and the truth and the life who invites me to rest in him. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

From the responsorial psalm: "Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice; let the sea and what fills it resound; let the plains be joyful and all that is in them! Then let all the trees of the forest rejoice. The Lord our God comes with power." A ⁠reading⁠ from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 18:12-14) Jesus said to his disciples: "What is your opinion? If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go in search of the stray? And if he finds it, amen, I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety-nine that did not stray. In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost." In the familiar Parable of the Lost Sheep, Jesus sets an example for the disciples to seek out the sheep that go astray and bring back what was lost with great joy. By asking the opinion of the disciples, and all who hear him, the hypothetical question engages the missionary muscle of the disciples and puts them in the place of their master and teacher. In doing as the Good Shepherd does, the disciples follow God's will and act through his grace so that not one of these little ones will be lost. God, help me understand the compassion of Jesus in seeking out the lost sheep. It is both a glimpse into your infinite mercy and example of how to care for others who stray from you, "the little ones." Isaiah describes the same shepherd who comes to rule us with tenderness and strength: "Here is your God! . . . Like a shepherd he feeds his flock; in his arms he gathers the lambs, Carrying them in his bosom, and leading the ewes with care." Pray for us, O holy Mother of God. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

From the responsorial psalm: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. He tells the number of the stars; he calls each by name. Blessed are all who wait for the Lord." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 9:27-31) Jesus sent out these Twelve after instructing them thus, "Go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: 'The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.' Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give." Jesus sends out the Twelve to do what he has been doing around all the towns and villages: teaching, proclaiming the Gospel, and curing all manner of disease and illness. Moved to pity at the sight of the crowds, Jesus sees the need to give authority to the Twelve "to cure every disease and illness" and to drive out unclean spirits. This is the same Lord, responsive to every one of our needs, that Isaiah tells us about in the first reading: "The Lord will give you the bread you need and the water for which you thirst." God, help me today see in others what Jesus saw in the crowds. His reason for compassion was because "they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd." Help me be obedient to Jesus' command to go to the lost sheep without counting the cost. Jesus models Christian discipleship not only for the apostles but for all who hear his call to remain faithful to the Church in proclaiming the kingdom. With your authority, Lord, through baptism and the sacraments, give me the grace to proclaim in my words and actions that your kingdom is now at hand. Saint Ambrose, pray for us! Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

From the responsorial psalm: "I believe that I shall see the bounty of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD with courage; be stouthearted, and wait for the LORD. The Lord is my light and my salvation." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 9:27-31) As Jesus passed by, two blind men followed him, crying out, “Son of David, have pity on us!” When he entered the house, the blind men approached him and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I can do this?” “Yes, Lord,” they said to him. Then he touched their eyes and said, “Let it be done for you according to your faith.” And their eyes were opened. After Jesus gives sight to the blind men, he sternly warns them not to tell anyone about the miracle. But they tell their story anyway, and word of Jesus spreads throughout the region. By asking the blind men if they believe he can heal them, Jesus invites them into a relationship with him just as the angel Gabriel invited Mary into a relationship with God. She said, "May it be done to me according to your word." As Jesus touches the eyes of the blind men, he says, “Let it be done for you according to your faith.” God, the giver of all good gifts, invites us to receive his mercy; in turn, we give him our trust and faith in him and are made whole. God, it is difficult for me to say "Let it be done." I would rather go by my own vision diminished by life experience and by sin than to have complete faith and trust in you. Yet, in complete trust, the blind men said yes to you and were given sight to see but greater still the supernatural vision of your love and mercy for them. I wonder if I have to be a bit reckless in the way a child might be reckless--unaware of self-preservation and not taking myself so seriously. Is it like this: within reason, one way is as good as another as long as I don't turn away from you? Or "Love God and do what you will," as Saint Augustine said. Open my eyes, Lord, my light and my salvation. Saint Nicholas, pray for us! Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

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From the responsorial psalm: "You spread the table before me in the sight of my foes; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. I shall live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 15:29-37) Jesus said to them, "How many loaves do you have?" "Seven," they replied, "and a few fish." He ordered the crowd to sit down on the ground. Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, gave thanks, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied. They picked up the fragments left over–seven baskets full. The great crowds come to listen listen to Jesus. With them come people who have all sorts of debilitations and illnesses, and Jesus cures them. The deformed are made whole, the lame walk, and the blind see. Because of this, Matthew tells us, "they glorified the God of Israel." As he looks at the crowd, he is moved with pity for them because they have had nothing to eat for three days. The disciples question where they will get enough bread to satisfy the crowd. The ending to this familiar Gospel account is well known. Yet, the story goes on as the same Lord who destroyed death forever spreads a table for us in the sight of our foes. In the Eucharist, Christ prepares a feast of "rich food and pure, choice wines." What is a fitting response to this invitation? "Behold, the Lord comes to save his people," the responsorial psalm says, "blessed are those prepared to meet him." God, how little separates the people then with people today? Considering my own brokenness and sin, what will be my response to the invitation to receive healing from Jesus, to share in the superabundance of blessings in this day alone? Jesus also speaks to me as he speaks to the disciples: "How many loaves do you have?" It's as if he is saying, "What little you have, give me. I will bless it and break it; in breaking it, I will not divide it but multiply it a hundredfold." From on high, he asks the same of me, that I come to him in brokenness to be made whole and be made ready for the banquet of eternal life. Help me, God, remember to come to the feet of Jesus to bring him what I have to give. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

From the Gospel acclamation: "Come and save us, LORD our God; Let your face shine upon us, that we may be saved." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 8:5-11) When Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion approached him and appealed to him, saying, "Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully." He said to him, "I will come and cure him." The centurion said in reply, "Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed." Although Jesus is willing to go to the servant's house, the centurion feels unworthy to have him under his roof. He asks Jesus to simply speak a word of healing, drawing on his experience as a leader and as one who leads others. He trusts the authority of Jesus and has faith in him. Jesus is amazed by this and turns to those following him, witnesses to the centurion's faith, and says, "Amen, I say to you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith. I say to you, many will come from the east and the west, and will recline with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the banquet in the Kingdom of heaven." We hear also in the first reading the hope of having the Lord enter under our roof, as Isaiah prays, "O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the LORD!" God, let me follow the centurion's example of faith and trust in the word of Jesus to heal me. In the Gospel, the servant is "lying at home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully." I am sure there will be moments throughout the day when I am completely stuck, stifled by uncertainty and wondering where you are and how to move toward you. I may be paralyzed in that moment, but you are not. Give me the grace to remember this prayer and bear witness to your mercy: Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

From the responsorial psalm: "The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul; The decree of the LORD is trustworthy, giving wisdom to the simple. The judgments of the Lord are true, and all of them are just." A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 4:18-22) As Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew, casting a net into the sea; they were fishermen. He said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him. After calling Simon and Andrew, Jesus walks along the shore and calls James and John to follow him. Simon and Andrew are casting a net into the sea, and James and John are mending their nets. From his walk along the shore, Jesus calls four fisherman who would become the first apostles. In the first reading, Saint Paul also describes the consequences of responding to the call of the Lord. If we are called, we are sent so that "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." In choosing the apostles, Jesus exercises childlike faith in the Father's plan, and we glimpse the beauty and simplicity of the mind of Jesus as he carries out his will. Men who cast nets to catch fish would be good at catching souls to be brought into his Father's kingdom. Men who mend nets would make good stewards of the faith, loyal and persevering in times of adversity. The Gospel acclamation speaks to all of us in the voice of Jesus: "Come after me, says the Lord, and I will make you fishers of men." Father in heaven, strengthen my faith today; help me hear and respond to your call. To be saved is to be sent out and made fishers of men. As Saint Paul says, it is to confess that Jesus is Lord and to believe in my heart that you raised him from the dead. The risen Christ, alive in the word, in the Eucharist, and in the sacraments of the Church accomplishes your will as he calls me to respond immediately and follow him. As I look to you with childlike faith, make clear to me what skills and talents I have to bring the words of Christ to one person at a time so that everyone who hears would believe in the Gospel and call on your name. Saint Andrew, pray for us! Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

From the responsorial psalm: “Who can ascend the mountain of the LORD? or who may stand in his holy place? One whose hands are sinless, whose heart is clean, who desires not what is vain. Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face.” A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 5:1-12a) When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.” Today's Solemnity of All Saints honors the men and women throughout the ages who lived a life of holiness. The Beatitudes reveal the roadmap—the guidelines Jesus gave to them and to all of us—to achieve sanctity. Each of the saints, a cloud of witnesses who intercede for us to the Father, lived out the Beatitudes as they accomplished his will. For each of the Beatitudes that is lived out, Jesus promises a reward now (“for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven”) and in the life of the world to come. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God. . . . Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.” God, help me see in the Beatitudes a way of being and the goodness that follows. Each Beatitude is in itself a way to holiness and results in its natural end: to the merciful mercy will be shown; to peacemakers, peace as children of God; to the persecuted for the sake of Christ, the kingdom of heaven. In the first reading, John describes the great multitude of the saints in heaven as they cry out to you: “Salvation comes from our God, who is seated on the throne, and from the Lamb.” With the psalmist, in the company of all the holy men and women who have gone before us, I pray: “Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face.” Bless me, Lord, as I hunger and thirst for the truth of your love. All you angels and saints, pray for us! Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

When did Matthew discover his real self? - Fr. Lucas Laborde. Click here for today's readings. How does this account illumine your own conversion? In what ways Jesus' calling revealed to you your true identity? Was some bridge person instrumental in your own faith journey? Do you think Jesus may have called you because you are meant to be a bridge person for a specific group?

Friends of the Rosary, Today, on the optional memorial days of Saint John Fisher, bishop and martyr, and Saint Thomas More, martyr, we learn through the Gospel of Matthew (Mt 6:24-34) to seek the Kingdom of Heaven and its treasures first. Jesus is saying to his disciples: "Seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness,and all these things will be given you besides.Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself.Sufficient for a day is its own evil." Through the gift of faith, we open ourselves to what God will reveal and invite. We entrust our lives completely to the all-powerful God,not worrying and depending on him. Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You! Come, Holy Spirit, come! To Jesus through Mary! + Mikel Amigot | RosaryNetwork.com, New York • ⁠June 22, 2024, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Simple Faith for a Complex World. Today, Pastor Michael is drilling down on the complexities of modern life.  We like complexity until it becomes overwhelming, but it is a real part of modern day-to-day living.  God did not make a world that was overly complex.  He put people in a situation that was pretty idyllic and low-key.  But we, starting with Adam and Eve, pretty much messed that one up!  Now more than ever, we wish for a simple life, that world that God created before disease, sickness, and bad fortune.  But: Good news! The same God who created that simple life is going to bring it back. But we're in the messy middle right now, and it's a struggle.  So lets jump into the study: We're with Jesus in this lesson from the book of Mark, where He talks about the end times.  “Let the reader understand” is important in this passage, probably inserted by the author Mark for future generations.  Herein, they're talking about the Abomination of Desolation, which is when someone in authority reaches the end of the sacrifices in the temple in an abominable way, causing desolation, happening in the middle of a covenant.  This prophecy has three fulfillments to it.  Two are partial and temporary, and one is complete and forever. In the first fulfillment, Antiochus, a truly evil man, entered an altar and sacrificed a pig in their temple, defiling it utterly. Eventually, the temple was cleaned and restored. When Jesus arrived, the temple was humming along. Hannukah came about during this restoration, an interesting historical fact.  The second fulfillment, also partial, occurred during Roman times.  Revolts were now occurring against the Romans, and so in marches the Roman army right into Jerusalem, and they knocked down the temple, disrupting the sacrifices, which is still not occurring to this day.  The ultimate fulfillment is the third one, the AntiChrist, who will broker the seven-year covenant. Seemingly, a peace treaty will be made with Israel and its neighbors, and the temple will be rebuilt. He will then break that covenant at the halfway mark and will defile the temple yet again.  A complex world calls for a simple faith—a faith that is thought out, reasoned through, and returns to simplicity.  We're in the middle, and it can be overwhelming, but God will make it simple again! You CAN trust God! (CSB Bible Notes) 13:14 The abomination of desolation is drawn from Dn 9:27; 11:31; 12:11 (cp. Mt 24:15) and was used to describe the desecration of the temple by Antiochus Epiphanes in 167 BC (see the apocryphal book 1Macc 1:54). Jesus's reference may be to some event prior to AD 70 or to the “man of lawlessness” (2Th 2:3-10; cp. Rv 13:1-10,14-15). Mark did not identify the location for standing where it should not be, but Matthew (Mt 24:15) said “in the holy place,” meaning the temple's sanctuary (cp. 2Th 2:4). Verses can be found in Mark 13: 14 - 23. Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.  

SHARE & CONNECT WITH US: YouTube: https://youtube.com/@lectiodiv Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/za/podcast/lectio-divina-daily-reflections/id1637258440 Support Lectio Divina Reflections on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user/membership?u=85589341 A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 2:13-18) When the magi had departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him." Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt. He stayed there until the death of Herod, that what the Lord had said through the prophet might be fulfilled, Out of Egypt I called my son. Joseph obeys the angel's instructions and takes his family to Egypt, where they stay until Herod's death. Matthew goes on to give an account of the innocent children who were slaughtered. The Massacre of the Holy Innocents also reveals the suffering and persecution Jesus will endure after he begins his public ministry. In contrast to the evil actions of Herod, we see the purity and innocence of the child Jesus and the Holy Innocents. God, help me understand today's Gospel as a way to comprehend how evil is perpetrated. I have come to learn that while you don't cause evil--the human misuse of freedom does--and in its mystery, you permit it to bring about a greater good. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church states: "God is in no way, directly or indirectly, the cause of moral evil. He permits it, however, because he respects the freedom of his creatures and, mysteriously, knows how to derive good from it." This is beyond my understanding. Teach me to trust in your mercy and the redemptive work of Jesus your Son as a way to overcome evil through love, justice, and mercy. Holy Innocents, pray for us! Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lectio-divina-daily/support

When did Matthew discover his real self? - Fr. Lucas Laborde. Click here for today's readings. How does this account illumine your own conversion? In what ways Jesus' calling revealed to you your true identity? Was some bridge person instrumental in your own faith journey? Do you think Jesus may have called you because you are meant to be a bridge person for a specific group? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lucas-laborde/message

Follow Fr. Michael Delcambre's Homily for the 22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time. Follow along in Matthew Mt 16:21-27.

Friends of the Rosary: Today, Jesus Christ speaks in the Gospel of Matthew (Mt 19:3-12) about the mystery and sacrament of marriage. The reading couldn't be more relevant, considering the attempts of evildoers and their collaborators to destroy Christian lawful marriages and families. ”From the beginning, the Creator made them male and female and said: For this reason, a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, man must not separate." The Son of God also warns that not everyone is prepared to marry. "Some are incapable of marriage because they were born so; some, because they were made so by others; some because they have renounced marriage for the sake of the Kingdom of heaven." Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You! To Jesus through Mary! + Mikel A. | RosaryNetwork.com, New York • August 18, 2023, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET   

Friends of the Rosary: With faith, nothing is impossible. Our problem lies in our lack of faith. Christ Jesus conveyed this message to His disciples when they struggled to expel a demon from a possessed boy, as recounted in today's Gospel of Matthew (Mt 17:14-20). He stated: "Amen, I say to you if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." Jesus urges us through His disciples to exercise our faith. St. Paul reminds us that "we walk by faith, not by sight." We observe the world around us through conventional categories—political, cultural, and economic. We might be driven by instinct. However, by nurturing our faith daily, we can reach a point where the beauty of the Spirit predominates in our lives because the Divine will grant us the grace to perceive it. Instinct and sensory perceptions will unravel, and we will comprehend that we are wired for God. Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You! To Jesus through Mary! + Mikel A. | RosaryNetwork.com, New York • August 12, 2023, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Friends of the Rosary: Our Father in Heaven, who sees what is hidden, repays us for everything we do silently for others, Jesus reminds us in today's Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 6:1-6, 16-18). When we give alms, pray, or fast, we shouldn't seek people's praise or approval. As Jesus said to his disciples, “Take care not to perform righteous deeds in order for people to see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father.” How often are we trapped in the pursuit of pleasing the world around us, seeking praise and honors? That might comfort us for a moment, but it won't last. As we contemplate the third Glorious Mystery that we pray today, we strive to live with and for the Spirit of Truth. Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!To Jesus through Mary! + Mikel A. | RosaryNetwork.com, New York • June 21, 2023, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

The calling of St. Matthew - Fr. Lucas Laborde. Click here for today's readings. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/lucas-laborde/message

Today's Topics: 1) Matthew - Mt 8:18-22 - “Lord, let me go first and bury my father.” But Jesus answered him, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their dead.” Saint Cyril of Alexandria. pray for us 2) Why is the Sacred Heart on Fire https://aleteia.org/2022/06/21/why-is-the-sacred-heart-on-fire/  3, 4) I'm spiritual but not religious https://www.crisismagazine.com/2018/catholic-converts-case-religion-mere-spirituality

New Testament / NOUVO TESTAMAN MATTHEW / Mt 24:29-51 La Bible explique dans année. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/haitianhelpinghands/support

New Testament / NOUVO TESTAMAN MATTHEW / MT 17- La Bible Expliquée Dans une année. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/haitianhelpinghands/support

New Testament / NOUVO TESTAMAN MATTHEW / MT 15:1-20 La Bible Expliquée Dans Une Année. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/haitianhelpinghands/support

Pastor Jeske's Advent series, "What a Magnificent Plan", kicks off with a study on the "Meticulous Genealogy" in Matthew 1:1-17 and Luke 3:23-37.  Jews kept extensive genealogies as records of family descendants to establish a person's heritage, inheritance, legitimacy, and rights. Matthew gives Jesus' ancestry through Joseph's line to demonstrate that Jesus is the legal heir to the covenant promises linked to David's throne and the legal heir to the covenant promises linked to Abraham's heirs and land.  Comparing Jesus' genealogy in Matthew (Mt 1:1–16) with the one found in Luke, Matthew begins with Abraham and works forward to David and then to Jesus, whereas Luke works back from Jesus beyond Abraham to Adam as the son of God.  Each connection allows a point to be made about who Jesus is and whom he is qualified to serve. The connection to David establishes his rights as regal heir; Jesus can be king of Israel. “Son of God” in this sense involves the right to rule as the Promised One, the Son of David.  It is important to appreciate the uniqueness of this list. We all have genealogies, but none of them qualifies us to be God's chosen Son. We receive our role in God's family through him. In a sense the only genealogy that counts for us is the one that connects us to Jesus, for his work makes our biological roots less relevant. He makes his children out of Jews and Gentiles, males and females.

Pastor Jeske's Advent series, "What a Magnificent Plan", kicks off with a study on the "Meticulous Genealogy" in Matthew 1:1-17 and Luke 3:23-37.  Jews kept extensive genealogies as records of family descendants to establish a person's heritage, inheritance, legitimacy, and rights. Matthew gives Jesus' ancestry through Joseph's line to demonstrate that Jesus is the legal heir to the covenant promises linked to David's throne and the legal heir to the covenant promises linked to Abraham's heirs and land.  Comparing Jesus' genealogy in Matthew (Mt 1:1–16) with the one found in Luke, Matthew begins with Abraham and works forward to David and then to Jesus, whereas Luke works back from Jesus beyond Abraham to Adam as the son of God.  Each connection allows a point to be made about who Jesus is and whom he is qualified to serve. The connection to David establishes his rights as regal heir; Jesus can be king of Israel. “Son of God” in this sense involves the right to rule as the Promised One, the Son of David.  It is important to appreciate the uniqueness of this list. We all have genealogies, but none of them qualifies us to be God's chosen Son. We receive our role in God's family through him. In a sense the only genealogy that counts for us is the one that connects us to Jesus, for his work makes our biological roots less relevant. He makes his children out of Jews and Gentiles, males and females.

마태복음에서 찾아야 할 언약과 여정 (마 26:39-42)

The Covenant and Journey We Must Find in Matthew (Mt 26:39-42)

The calling of St. Matthew - Fr. Lucas Laborde. Click here for today's readings. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/lucas-laborde/message

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Bibliography/ResourcesThe Gospel of John (Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture Series)Jesus of Nazareth: Holy Week by Pope Benedict XVIMass Readings Explained by Brant PitreVerbum Bible Software - www.verbum.comReferencesMark 16:1 - "And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him."Jesus predicts his resurrection six times in the Gospel of Matthew: Mt 12:40; 16:21; 17:9; 17:23; 20:19Psalm 22:22 - "I will tell of thy name to my brethren"Hebrews 2:11-12 - "That is why he is not ashamed to call them brethren, 12 saying, “I will proclaim thy name to my brethren, in the midst of the congregation I will praise thee.”1 Corinthians 15:14 - "If Christ had not been raised [...] then your faith is in vain."

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Hans ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

Pastor Petrucci ministered this morning

2016 Feb 26 Fri: Lenten Weekday===================================================A reading from the book of GenesisGn 37: 3-4. 12-13a. 17b-28a===================================================[3] Now Israel loved Joseph more than any other of his children, because he was the son of his old age; and he made him a long robe with sleeves. [4] But when his brothers saw that their father loved him more than all his brothers, they hated him, and could not speak peaceably to him.[12] Now his brothers went to pasture their father's flock near Shechem. [13] And Israel said to Joseph, "Are not your brothers pasturing the flock at Shechem? Come, I will send you to them." [17] So Joseph went after his brothers, and found them at Dothan. [18] They saw him afar off, and before he came near to them they conspired against him to kill him. [19] They said to one another, "Here comes this dreamer. [20] Come now, let us kill him and throw him into one of the pits; then we shall say that a wild beast has devoured him, and we shall see what will become of his dreams." [21] But when Reuben heard it, he delivered him out of their hands, saying, "Let us not take his life." [22] And Reuben said to them, "Shed no blood; cast him into this pit here in the wilderness, but lay no hand upon him" -- that he might rescue him out of their hand, to restore him to his father. [23] So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe, the long robe with sleeves that he wore; [24] and they took him and cast him into a pit. The pit was empty, there was no water in it. [25] Then they sat down to eat; and looking up they saw a caravan of Ish'maelites coming from Gilead, with their camels bearing gum, balm, and myrrh, on their way to carry it down to Egypt. [26] Then Judah said to his brothers, "What profit is it if we slay our brother and conceal his blood? [27] Come, let us sell him to the Ish'maelites, and let not our hand be upon him, for he is our brother, our own flesh." And his brothers heeded him. [28] Then Mid'ianite traders passed by; and they drew Joseph up and lifted him out of the pit, and sold him to the Ish'maelites for twenty shekels of silver.The Word of the Lord==============================================From Psalm 105Ps 105: 16-17. 18-19. 20-21==============================================Remember the wonderful works that the Lord has done[16] When the Lord summoned a famine on the land,and broke every staff of bread,[17] he had sent a man ahead of them,Joseph, who was sold as a slave.Remember the wonderful works that the Lord has done [18] His feet were hurt with fetters,his neck was put in a collar of iron;[19] until what he had said came to passthe word of the LORD tested him.Remember the wonderful works that the Lord has done [20] The king sent and released him,the ruler of the peoples set him free;[21] he made him lord of his house,and ruler of all his possessions.Remember the wonderful works that the Lord has done==============================================A reading from the holy gospel according to Matthew  Mt 21: 33-43. 45-46==============================================[33] Jesus said to the chief priests and the elders of the people: "Hear another parable. There was a householder who planted a vineyard, and set a hedge around it, and dug a wine press in it, and built a tower, and let it out to tenants, and went into another country. [34] When the season of fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants, to get his fruit; [35] and the tenants took his servants and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. [36] Again he sent other servants, more than the first; and they did the same to them. [37] Afterward he sent his son to them, saying, `They will respect my son.' [38] But when the tenants saw the son, they said to themselves, `This is the heir; come, let us kill him and have his inheritance.' [39] And they took him and cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. [40] When therefore the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?" [41] They said to him, "He will put those wretches to a miserable death, and let out the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the fruits in their seasons." [42] Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the scriptures: `The very stone which the builders rejectedhas become the head of the corner;this was the Lord's doing,and it is marvelous in our eyes'?[43] Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a nation producing the fruits of it." [45] When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they perceived that he was speaking about them. [46] But when they tried to arrest him, they feared the multitudes, because they held him to be a prophet.The Gospel of the Lord

2016 Feb 24 Wed: Lenten Weekday===================================================A reading from the book of the prophet JeremiahJer 18: 18-20===================================================[18] The people of Judah and the citizens of Jerusalem said, "Come, let us make plots against Jeremiah, for the law shall not perish from the priest, nor counsel from the wise, nor the word from the prophet. Come, let us smite him with the tongue, and let us not heed any of his words." [19] Give heed to me, O LORD,and hearken to my plea.[20] Is evil a recompense for good?Yet they have dug a pit for my life.Remember how I stood before theeto speak good for them,to turn away thy wrath from them.The Word of the Lord==============================================From Psalm 31Ps 31: 5-6. 14. 15-16==============================================Save me in thy steadfast love[5] take me out of the net which is hidden for me,for thou art my refuge.[6] Into thy hand I commit my spirit;thou hast redeemed me, O LORD, faithful God.Save me in thy steadfast love [14] Yea, I hear the whispering of many --terror on every side! --as they scheme together against me,as they plot to take my life. Save me in thy steadfast love [15] But I trust in thee, O LORD,I say, "Thou art my God."[16] My times are in thy hand;deliver me from the hand of my enemies and persecutors!Save me in thy steadfast love==============================================A reading from the holy gospel according to Matthew  Mt 20: 17-28==============================================[17] As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside, and on the way he said to them, [18] "Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man will be delivered to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn him to death, [19] and deliver him to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day." [20] Then the mother of the sons of Zeb'edee came up to him, with her sons, and kneeling before him she asked him for something. [21] And he said to her, "What do you want?" She said to him, "Command that these two sons of mine may sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom." [22] But Jesus answered, "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am to drink?" They said to him, "We are able." [23] He said to them, "You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father." [24] And when the ten heard it, they were indignant at the two brothers. [25] But Jesus called them to him and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. [26] It shall not be so among you; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant, [27] and whoever would be first among you must be your slave; [28] even as the Son of man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."The Gospel of the Lord

2016 Feb 22 Mon: Feast of the Chair of Peter, apostle ===================================================A reading from the first letter of St. Peter1 Pt 5: 1-4===================================================[1] So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ as well as a partaker in the glory that is to be revealed. [2] Tend the flock of God that is your charge, not by constraint but willingly, not for shameful gain but eagerly, [3] not as domineering over those in your charge but being examples to the flock. [4] And when the chief Shepherd is manifested you will obtain the unfading crown of glory.The Word of the Lord==============================================From Psalm 23Ps 23: 1-3a. 4. 5. 6==============================================The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want[1] The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want;[2] he makes me lie down in green pastures.He leads me beside still waters;[3] he restores my soul.The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want[4] Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,I fear no evil;for thou art with me;thy rod and thy staff,they comfort me.The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want [5] Thou preparest a table before mein the presence of my enemies;thou anointest my head with oil,my cup overflows.The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want [6] Surely goodness and mercy shall follow meall the days of my life;and I shall dwell in the house of the LORDfor ever.The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want==============================================A reading from the holy gospel according to Matthew  Mt 16: 13-19==============================================[13] When Jesus came into the district of Caesare'a Philip'pi, he asked his disciples, "Who do men say that the Son of man is?" [14] And they said, "Some say John the Baptist, others say Eli'jah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." [15] He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" [16] Simon Peter replied, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." [17] And Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jona! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. [18] And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the powers of death shall not prevail against it. [19] I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."The Gospel of the Lord

2016 Feb 23 Tue: Lenten Weekday ===================================================A reading from the book of the prophet IsaiahIs 1: 10. 16-20===================================================[10] Hear the word of the LORD,you rulers of Sodom!Give ear to the teaching of our God,you people of Gomor'rah![16] Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean;remove the evil of your doingsfrom before my eyes;cease to do evil,[17] learn to do good;seek justice,correct oppression;defend the fatherless,plead for the widow.[18] "Come now, let us reason together,says the LORD:though your sins are like scarlet,they shall be as white as snow;though they are red like crimson,they shall become like wool.[19] If you are willing and obedient,you shall eat the good of the land;[20] But if you refuse and rebel,you shall be devoured by the sword;for the mouth of the LORD has spoken."The Word of the Lord==============================================From Psalm 50Ps 50: 8-9. 16bc-17. 21 and 23==============================================To him who orders his way aright I will show the salvation of God[8] I do not reprove you for your sacrifices;your burnt offerings are continually before me.[9] I will accept no bull from your house,nor he-goat from your folds.To him who orders his way aright I will show the salvation of God [16] "What right have you to recite my statutes,or take my covenant on your lips?[17] For you hate discipline,and you cast my words behind you.To him who orders his way aright I will show the salvation of God [21] These things you have done and I have been silent;you thought that I was one like yourself.But now I rebuke you, and lay the charge before you.[23] He who brings thanksgiving as his sacrifice honors me;to him who orders his way arightI will show the salvation of God!"To him who orders his way aright I will show the salvation of God==============================================A reading from the holy gospel according to Matthew  Mt 23: 1-12==============================================[1] Then said Jesus to the crowds and to his disciples, [2] "The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat; [3] so practice and observe whatever they tell you, but not what they do; for they preach, but do not practice. [4] They bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with their finger. [5] They do all their deeds to be seen by men; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long, [6] and they love the place of honor at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues, [7] and salutations in the market places, and being called rabbi by men. [8] But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brethren. [9] And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. [10] Neither be called masters, for you have one master, the Christ. [11] He who is greatest among you shall be your servant; [12] whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.The Gospel of the Lord

While considering the gospel account of St. Matthew (MT 25:31-46) for the Feast of Christ the King, Fr. Riccardo discusses the importance of practicing the corporal works of mercy. Fr. John reminds the congregation that God is asking us to show our love for the poor, the hungry, the homeless, the sick, and our brothers and sisters in prison.

While focusing on the gospel reading from St. Matthew (MT 22:34-40), Fr. Riccardo asks the congregation, "What does it mean to love?" Fr. John emphasizes the importance of moving back to God and serving our neighbors.

Fr. Riccardo looks at the gospel account of St. Matthew (MT 28:1-10) of the women at Jesus' tomb and focuses on four words (don't, come, go, and tell) from the exchange between the angel of the Lord and Mary Magdelene and Mary, the mother of James. Fr. John encourages the congregation to go and tell others the good news of the gospel by living lives that allow the light of Christ to shine.

While considering today's gospel account from St. Matthew (MT 11:2-11), Fr. Riccardo discusses the importance of asking questions. Just as John the Baptist sent his disciples to question whether Jesus is the true messiah, Fr. John encourages the congregation to ask questions during times of doubt.

While reflecting on the gospel reading from St. Matthew (Mt 25:31-46), Fr. Riccardo reflects on judgment day. Fr. John encourages the congregation to "wake up to living rightly," and to look for Jesus in the faces of those we encounter in our daily lives.

Fr. Riccardo tells the congregation that God wants to judge us, and that His judgment need not be negative.  While considering the gospel reading from St. Matthew (Mt 25:14-30), Fr. John encourages the congregation to consider how they are using the gifts that God has bestowed on each of us.

Fr. Riccardo encourages the congregation to participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation in this homily from Our Lady of Good Counsel Church.  While reflecting on the gospel reading from St. Matthew (Mt 16:13-20), Fr. John discusses statistics regarding catholics and confession and reminds the congregation that God is always merciful.

While reflecting on today's gospel account from St. Matthew (Mt 14:22-33), Fr. Riccardo remarks that all of life is a storm with endless opportunities for fear and anxiety.  Fr. John reminds us that in times of need we need to remember that we have a loving Savior whose power is beyond all comprehension.  He encourages us to keep our eyes on Jesus.   

Fr. Riccardo asks the congregation to reflect on the question posed by Jesus in the gospel reading from St. Matthew (Mt 13:44-52), "Do you understand all these things?" Fr. John encourages us to beg the Holy Spirit to work in our lives, that we might grow in knowledge of the Lord and build a relationship with the Father.

While reflecting on the gospel account of St. Matthew (Mt 17:1-9) of the Transfiguration of Jesus, Fr. Riccardo reminds the congregation that Jesus redeemed the world by His cross and resurrection, and that God is weaving something beautiful out of all of our suffering.

While reflecting on the gospel reading from St. Matthew (Mt 7:21-27), Fr. Riccardo discusses what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. Fr. John reminds the congregation that to be a disciple one must surrender their life to God.

Fr. Riccardo encourages the congregation to go to school at the feet of Mary, our Mother, so that they may learn how to trust.  While reflecting on the gospel reading from St. Matthew (Mt 11:2-11), Fr. John reminds us that for every situation in life, God gives grace which is sufficient.