January 1, 2017 - Feast of Mary the Mother of God

The Feast of Mary,
the Mother of God        

Reading 1:  Nm. 6:22-27
Response:  Psalm  67
Reading 2:  Gal. 4:4-7
Gospel:  Luke 2:16-21

The Church has had reverenced Mary the Mother of God from the beginning. She has been considered very special and not a random choice. The French poet Henri Jordin envisioned God the Father saying, “When I sent my son on earth, he wasn't hard to please, about food or lodging or state of life or anything - except his mother. About her he was exacting, he wanted his mother to be a masterpiece.”

Jesus also wanted to give us a special gift by sharing his beautiful mother with us. She is one who cares for us and intercedes for us with her son. We saw that in his human life when she came to the assistance of a young couple at their wedding ceremony. She noted that they were running out of wine and simply told her son who performed a miracle to remedy the situation.

Jesus also provided us with a human model. Mary was not only totally open to the plans of God, but she was also an extremely strong person to be able to accept the struggles and pains associated with being the mother of Jesus. We know of her suffering with Jesus in his lifetime and finally her faithfulness as she saw him falsely accused, tortured and crucified.

As we see all the starving, violence and suffering in our world, let us ask our mother's intercession for all her children of our time. Immaculate Mary is the patroness of the United States. A Shrine to her Immaculate Conception is was built in our country's capitol. Let us fly to her protection at this turbulent time in our history.
 
O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you.  Amen.

A Blessed New Year to you and yours!!!

Spanish Translation of Reflection Above...

Fiesta de María, madre de Dios

La Iglesia ha reverenciado a María Madre de Dios desde el principio. Ella ha sido considerada muy especial y no una elección al azar. El poeta francés Henri Jordin imaginó a Dios el Padre diciendo: “Cuando envié a mi hijo a la tierra, no era difícil de complacer, de comida o alojamiento, estado de vida o cualquier cosa, excepto su madre. Sobre ella era exigente, quería que su madre fuera una obra maestra.”

Jesús también quiso darnos un regalo especial compartiendo su bella madre con nosotros. Ella es quien cuida de nosotros e intercede por nosotros con su hijo. Vimos que en su vida humana cuando ella vino a la ayuda de una pareja joven en su ceremonia de la boda. Ella notó que se les estaba acabando el vino y simplemente le dijo a su hijo que realizó un milagro para remediar la situación.

Jesús también nos proporcionó un modelo humano. María no sólo estaba totalmente abierta a los planes de Dios, sino que también era una persona extremadamente fuerte para poder aceptar las luchas y dolores asociados con ser la madre de Jesús. Sabemos de su sufrimiento con Jesús en su vida y finalmente su fidelidad al verlo falsamente acusado, torturado y crucificado.

A medida que vemos todo el hambre, la violencia y el sufrimiento en nuestro mundo, pidamos la intercesión de nuestra madre por todos sus hijos de nuestro tiempo. Inmaculada María es la patrona de los Estados Unidos. Un santuario a su Inmaculada Concepción se construyó en la capital de nuestro país. Volvamos a su protección en este momento turbulento de nuestra historia.

O María, concebida sin pecado, ruega por nosotros que recurrimos a ti. Amén.

Un bendito año nuevo para usted y el suyo!!!

December 25,2016 - Feast of Christmas

The Solemn Feast of Christmas-Year A

Reading 1: IS 9:1-6,
Response:  Psalm 96
Reading 2:  Luke 2:10-11
Gospel:  Luke 2: 1-14

“Behold I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born to you who is Christ and Lord.” How blessed we are!!! Praise the Lord!

The Feast of Christmas is like a diamond in that there are so many facets that it is difficult to know where to start. The picture above is my favorite image of Christmas. It shows Mary exhausted from the travel and the pain of childbirth sleeping peacefully.  Meanwhile, Joseph, also tired from the journey and challenges he faced, holds and cares for the newborn Son of God, giving Mary some needed time to rest. To me, it gives a realistic, human picture of that first Christmas night. Also, it reminds us of the beautiful, self-sacrificing roles of Mary and Joseph in the plan of redemption.

During the days preceding Christmas the prayer of the Catholic Church and some Anglican and Lutheran Churches include the following O Antiphons to focus on some of the qualities of this new Savior:  

   

  December 17 -  O Sapientia (O Wisdom)

        

        O Wisdom, coming forth from the mouth of the Most High,  

        reaching from one end to the other,

        mightily and sweetly ordering all things:

        Come and teach us the way of prudence.

 December 18 -  O Adonai (O Lord)

         O Adonai, and leader of the House of Israel,

         who appeared to Moses in the fire of the burning bush

         and gave him the law on Mt. Sinai:

         Come and redeem us with an outstretched arm.

December 19 -  O Radix Jesse  (O Root of Jesse)

         

           O Root of Jesse, standing as a sign  among the peoples;

           before you kings will shut their mouths.

           to you the nations will make their prayer:

           Come and deliver us and delay no longer.

           

December 20 -  O Clavis David (O Key of David)

          

             O Key of David and sceptre of the House of Israel;

             you open and no one can shut; 

             you shut and no one can open:

             Come and lead the prisoners, from the prison house,

             those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death.

December 21 -  O Oriens (O Dayspring)

            O Morning Star,

            splendor of light eternal and sun of righteousness:

            Come and enlighten those who dwell in darkness and

            the shadow of death.

             

 December 22 -  O Rex Gentium (O King of the Nations)

         

            O King of Nations and their desire,

            the cornerstone making both one:

            Come and save the human race,

            which you fashioned from clay.

 December 23 -  O Emmanuel (O With Us is God)

             O Emmanuel, our king and our lawgiver,

             the hope of the nations and their Savior

             Come and save us, O Lord our God.

While each of these titles is wonderful,  the one that I love the best is Emmanuel, God with us. God could have redeemed us and then left us to ourselves. However, in His love, He wants to be with us in all the aspects of our lives. In the Eucharist at Mass, He continually offers himself for our sins and feeds and strengthens us in Holy Communion throughout our lives. In the Blessed Sacrament, He remains with us as our faithful friend ready to hear our prayers and speak to our hearts. How great His love and how blessed we are!!

Have a very happy Christmas!!!

Spanish Translation of Reflection Above...

Fiesta de Navidad

“He aquí yo os anuncio buenas nuevas de gran gozo que será para todo el pueblo. Porque hoy en la ciudad de David ha nacido un Salvador que es Cristo y Señor.” ¡Qué bienaventurados somos! ¡Alabado sea el Señor!

La Fiesta de Navidad es como un diamante en que hay tantas facetas que es difícil saber por dónde empezar. La imagen de arriba es mi imagen favorita de la Navidad. Muestra a María agotada por los viajes y el dolor del parto durmiendo pacíficamente. Mientras tanto, José, también cansado del viaje y los desafíos que enfrentó, sostiene y cuida al recién nacido Hijo de Dios, dándole a Maria un tiempo necesario para descansar. Para mí, da una imagen realista y humana de esa primera noche de Navidad. También nos recuerda los bellos y abnegados papeles de María y José en el plan de redención.

Durante los días que precedieron a la Navidad, la oración de la Iglesia Católica y algunas Iglesias anglicanas y luteranas incluyen las siguientes antífonas para enfocarse en algunas de las cualidades de este nuevo Salvador:

17 de diciembre - O Sapientia (O Sabiduría)

        

        Oh Sabiduría, saliendo de la boca del Altísimo,

        Alcanzando de un extremo al otro,

        Poderosa y dulcemente ordenar todas las cosas:

        Ven y enséñanos el camino de la prudencia.

 18 de diciembre - Oh Adonai (Señor)

         Oh Adonai, y líder de la Casa de Israel,

         Que se apareció a Moisés en el fuego de la zarza ardiente

         Y le dio la ley sobre el monte. Sinai

         Ven y redímenos con un brazo extendido.

19 de diciembre - O Radix Jesse (O Raíz de Jesse)

         

           Oh Raíz de Isaí, que está como señal entre los pueblos;

           Antes que los reyes cerraron sus bocas.

           A ti las naciones harán su oración:

           Ven a entregarnos ya no te tardes.

           

20 de diciembre - O Clavis David (O Clave de David)

          

             O Llave de David y cetro de la Casa de Israel;

             Tú abres y nadie puede cerrar;

             Cierras y nadie puede abrir:

             Ven y conduce a los prisioneros, desde la prisión,

             Los que moran en las tinieblas y la sombra de la muerte.

21 de diciembre - O Oriens (O Dayspring)

            O Estrella de la mañana,

            Esplendor de luz eterna y sol de justicia:

            Venid e iluminad a los que moran en tinieblas y

            La sombra de la muerte.

             

 22 de diciembre - Rex Gentium (Rey de las Naciones)

         

            ¡Oh Rey de las Naciones y su deseo,

            La piedra angular haciendo ambos uno:

            Ven y salva a la raza humana,

            Que usted formó de arcilla.

 23 de diciembre - O Emmanuel (O Con Nosotros es Dios)

             Oh Emmanuel, nuestro rey y nuestro legislador,

             La esperanza de las naciones y de su Salvador

             Ven y salvanos, oh Jehová nuestro Dios.

Mientras que cada uno de estos títulos es maravilloso, el que más me gusta es Emmanuel, Dios con nosotros. Dios podría habernos redimido y luego habernos dejado a nosotros mismos. Sin embargo, en Su amor, Él quiere estar con nosotros en todos los aspectos de nuestras vidas. En la Eucaristía en la Misa, Él se ofrece continuamente por nuestros pecados y nos alimenta y nos fortalece en la Santa Comunión a lo largo de nuestras vidas. En el Santísimo Sacramento, Él permanece con nosotros como nuestro fiel amigo dispuesto a escuchar nuestras oraciones ya hablar a nuestros corazones. ¡Cuán grande es Su amor y cuán dichosos somos !!

¡Tenga una Navidad muy feliz!!!

December 18, 2016 - The Faith and Trust of Joseph and Mary

The Fourth Sunday of Advent - Year A

Reading 1: Isaiah 7:10-14
Response: Psalm 24
Reading 2: Romans 1:1-7
Gospel: Matthew 1:18-24

In today’s Gospel, we hear of the dilemmas of Joseph and Mary, as they face the circumstances around the conception of Jesus. Mary is pregnant, and Joseph to whom she is betrothed is not the father. In their society, a woman pregnant out of wedlock was to be stoned to death.

Joseph is torn because he is an observer of the law, yet he is too much in love with Mary to carry out the law. He very reluctantly decides to divorce her quietly. He knows Mary’s goodness, but doubts may have crept in. Did he ask Mary how she came to be with child? Did he question her answer? 

In the picture above, we see Joseph trying to sleep. The picture suggests that he is in emotional turmoil, probably unable to sleep. God sends an angel to reassure him that the child was conceived by the Holy Spirit and that he is to take her to his home.

On Mary’s side, how heartbreaking to see the emotional pain of Joseph, and experience her own, as she senses the disdain of those who now consider her a sinful woman! How she must have been hurt by the contempt in the eyes of her neighbors! Was she anxious about her child? Would he be considered illegitimate? Would he be mistreated? How could she convince Joseph that she had been faithful to him?

God didn’t have to allow all this turbulence in the relationship between Mary and Joseph. Couldn’t He have spared them all that suffering? Surely, there would be another option. Then, why did God allow all this suffering? Could it be so that the relationship between Mary and Joseph could deepen? How grateful Mary must have been when Joseph took her to his home. How grateful Joseph must have felt when Mary still loved him in spite of his questioning her faithfulness. How tender their love must have become!

What about their relationships with God? Did that deepen as a result of the trials they had experienced? Their faith and trust had been sorely tested. However, by grace, they were able to be faithful to God, and to one another.

This seems to be one of the ways the Lord works with us humans. If the pain and suffering are accepted with His help and that of others, they can bring us closer to Him and to one another. On the other hand, there are those who become bitter instead of better with suffering. Let us ask the Lord to help us to become more holy, following the example of Joseph and Mary.

During this season of Advent, let us remember that God is our Fortress. He is our Strength. He is our Father who knows what is for our ultimate good. Let us deepen our faith and trust in Him, as did Joseph and Mary!

Spanish Translation of Reflection Above...

La fe y la confianza de José y María

En el Evangelio de hoy, oímos hablar de los dilemas de José y María, cuando enfrentan las circunstancias alrededor de la concepción de Jesús. María está embarazada, y José a quien está prometida no es el padre. En su sociedad, una mujer embarazada fuera del matrimonio iba a ser apedreada hasta la muerte.

José está desgarrado porque es un observador de la ley, pero está demasiado enamorado de María para llevar a cabo la ley. Él muy a regañadientes decide divorciarse de ella en silencio. Él conoce la bondad de María, pero es posible que haya habido dudas. ¿Le preguntó a María cómo había llegado a estar con su hijo? ¿Preguntó su respuesta?

En la foto de arriba, vemos a José tratando de dormir. El cuadro sugiere que él está en la agitación emocional, probablemente incapaz de dormir. Dios envía un ángel para tranquilizarle que el niño fue concebido por el Espíritu Santo y que él debe llevarla a su casa.

¡De parte de María, cuán desgarrador es ver el dolor emocional de José, y experimentar la suya, al sentir el desprecio de aquellos que ahora la consideran una mujer pecadora! ¡Cómo debió haber sido herida por el desprecio a los ojos de sus vecinos! ¿Estaba ansiosa por su hijo? ¿Sería considerado ilegítimo? ¿Sería maltratado? ¿Cómo podía convencer a José de que le había sido fiel?

Dios no tuvo que permitir toda esta turbulencia en la relación entre María y José. ¿No les habría podido ahorrar todo ese sufrimiento? Seguramente, habría otra opción. Entonces, ¿por qué Dios permitió todo este sufrimiento? ¿Podría ser para que la relación entre María y José pudiera profundizarse? Cuán agradecida María debe haber sido cuando José la llevó a su casa. ¡Cuán agradecido José debe haber sentido cuando María todavía lo amaba a pesar de su cuestionamiento de su fidelidad. ¡Qué tierna debe haber sido su amor!

¿Qué pasa con sus relaciones con Dios? ¿Esto se profundizó como resultado de las pruebas que habían experimentado? Su fe y su confianza habían sido muy probadas. Sin embargo, por gracia, fueron capaces de ser fieles a Dios, ya los unos a los otros.

Esta parece ser una de las maneras en que el Señor trabaja con nosotros, los humanos. Si el dolor y el sufrimiento son aceptados con Su ayuda y la de otros, pueden acercarnos más a Él ya los demás. Por otro lado, hay quienes se vuelven amargos en vez de mejor con el sufrimiento. Pidamos al Señor que nos ayude a ser más santos, siguiendo el ejemplo de José y María.

Durante esta temporada de Adviento, recordemos que Dios es nuestra Fortaleza. Él es nuestra Fuerza. Él es nuestro Padre que sabe lo que es para nuestro bien supremo. ¡Aprofundemos nuestra fe y confianza en Él, como José y María!

December 11, 2016 - The blind will be able to see.....

The Third Sunday of Advent - Year A

Reading I:  IS 35:1-6A, 10
Response:  Psalm 146
Reading: II  JAS 5:7-10
Gospel:  MATT 11:2-11

This Sunday is sometimes called Gaudete Sunday, meaning “rejoice.” It marks the half-way point between the beginning of Advent to Christmas Day. For those of us who might be impatient waiting for the coming of Jesus, it is meant to be a source of comfort.

The Church is aware that waiting can be a challenging time for us humans, although there is great value in it. Therefore, she chose the words of Isaiah to encourage the faithful. In the first reading, we hear the words: “the desert and the parched land will exult; the steppe will rejoice and bloom.”  There will be an end to the waiting time.

This became so real to me when on a retreat in the Holy Land as our guide pointed to a tall brown hill. He then assured us that when the rains would come, the hill would be completely blanketed with beautiful flowers. That helped me to understand the psalmist when he said that “the mountains would shout for joy.” When the waiting time of Advent is over and we can celebrate the birth of our Savior, the earth will be filled with music, lights, giving, love, and joy.

In today’s Gospel, we find John the Baptist in prison and in a confused state. He had seen the coming of the Messiah as a time of retribution against injustice and corruption. Nevertheless, he is hearing that Jesus is going around healing people like the blind man and showing compassion to people. John began to question whether he was mistaken to think of Jesus as the Messiah.

John then sent messengers to Jesus to ask Him if He was the true Messiah. Understanding John’s confusion, Jesus told them to go back and tell John that the blind see again, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear...and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. Thus,
by his actions Jesus is fulfilling the prophesies of Isaiah.

The miracles performed by Jesus were not only to confirm that he was indeed the Messiah, but they were also expression of his compassion and his love. He showed us by his actions that the kingdom of God IS a kingdom of love.

Jesus is the “God who sees” (understands). Hagar was the first to call God by that name
when He assured her of His help in her desperate situation. (Gen.16:13)  He is our Healer (the physician of our souls) and our Redeemer (the One who gave Himself as our ransom).  He just asks that we spread love and compassion to the people in our times. How blessed we are to have such a Savior!!!

Spanish Translation of Reflection Above...

El ciego podrá ver

Este domingo se llama a veces el domingo de Gaudete, que significa “regocija”. Marca el punto medio entre el comienzo del Adviento y el día de Navidad. Para aquellos de nosotros que podrían estar impacientes esperando la venida de Jesús, está destinado a ser una fuente de consuelo.

La Iglesia es consciente de que la espera puede ser un momento difícil para nosotros los seres humanos, aunque hay un gran valor en ella. Por lo tanto, escogió las palabras de Isaías para alentar a los fieles. En la primera lectura, escuchamos las palabras: “El desierto y la tierra seca se alegrarán; La estepa se regocijará y florecerá”. Habrá un fin al tiempo de espera.

Esto se hizo tan real para mí cuando en un retiro en Tierra Santa como nuestro guía señaló a una alta colina marrón. Entonces nos aseguró que cuando llegaran las lluvias, la colina estaría completamente cubierto con hermosas flores. Eso me ayudó a entender al salmista cuando dijo que “las montañas gritarían de alegría”. Cuando el tiempo de espera del Adviento haya terminado y podamos celebrar el nacimiento de nuestro Salvador, la tierra estará llena de música, luces, Amor y alegría.

En el Evangelio de hoy, encontramos a Juan el Bautista en la cárcel y en un estado confuso. Había visto la venida del Mesías como un tiempo de retribución contra la injusticia y la corrupción. Sin embargo, él está escuchando que Jesús está dando vueltas para curar a la gente como el ciego y mostrar compasión a la gente. Juan comenzó a preguntarse si se equivocaba al pensar en Jesús como el Mesías.

Entonces Juan envió mensajeros a Jesús para preguntarle si era el verdadero Mesías. Comprendiendo la confusión de Juan, Jesús les dijo que volvieran y dijeran a Juan que los ciegos ven otra vez, los cojos caminan, los leprosos son limpiados, los sordos oyen ... y las buenas nuevas son proclamadas a los pobres. Así, por sus acciones Jesús está cumpliendo las profecías de Isaías.

Los milagros realizados por Jesús no fueron sólo para confirmar que él era de hecho el Mesías, sino que también eran la expresión de su compasión y su amor. Él nos mostró por sus acciones que el reino de Dios ES un reino de amor.

Jesús es el “Dios que ve” (entiende). Agar fue la primera en llamar a Dios por ese nombre cuando Él le aseguró su ayuda en su desesperada situación. Es nuestro Sanador (el médico de nuestras almas) y nuestro Redentor (Aquel que se dio a sí mismo como nuestro rescate). Simplemente nos pide que difundamos amor y compasión a la gente en nuestros tiempos. ¡Qué bienaventurados somos de tener tal Salvador!

December 4, 2016 - Prepare for the Second Coming of Christ

The Second Sunday of Advent - Year A

Reading I: Isaiah 11:1-10
Response: Psalm 72
Reading II: Romans 15: 4-9
Gospel: Matthew 3:1-12

Last week, we focused on the coming of Jesus as a Emmanuel, God with us.  This week we focus on the second coming of Jesus, as it was predicted by Isaiah who said:            
          
      Justice shall be the band around his waist,
      and faithfulness a belt upon his hips.
      Then the wolf shall be a guest of the lamb,
      and the leopard shall lie down with the kid;
      The calf and the young lion shall browse
      together, with a little child to guide them.  
     (Isaiah 11:5-6)

When Jesus returns, he comes as a merciful judge.  However, he calls us to justice which is the only way we can have peace. John O’Malley, S.J. said, “Pope Francis is continually pushing us beyond the comforts of our religious boundaries to encounter the one human family.” 

Sometimes, I have felt discouraged about bringing about the Kingdom of God. I say to myself, “What can I do?” Then, I realize that I can make God’s kingdom come in my own heart. That is how it has to happen. It is one person at a time bringing justice and peace to his or her own environment.

However, I am still disturbed that I cannot do more when I see the Native American protesters being put down by the government. They are simply asking that the pipeline carrying oil not go through their land. Signing the petition on their behalf and joining others who oppose the action, does not seem to have helped. Then, I see so many innocent African Americans, even children, being shot practically every day. Concern for the immigrants is also weighing on my heart, not to mention all the atrocities in other countries.

Although I often feel overwhelmed by the situations in our world, I remind myself that God can bring good out of evil. I always appreciate the positive things that newscasters present after sharing the tragic stories. The good done by ordinary people, even little children, gives me hope.

How important this is today! We must continue to reach out in love and care for all our brothers and sisters, the beloved children of our heavenly Father. Jesus came and will come for us all. Jesus is the Lord of All, our Merciful Judge, and our Prince of Peace.

Spanish Translation of Reflection Above...

Prepararse para la Segunda Venida de Cristo

La semana pasada, nos enfocamos en la venida de Jesús como Emmanuel, Dios con nosotros. Esta semana nos centramos en la segunda venida de Jesús, como fue predicho por Isaías quien dijo:

          

      La justicia será la banda alrededor de su cintura,

      Y la fidelidad un cinturón en sus caderas.

      Entonces el lobo será un huésped del cordero,

      Y el leopardo se acostará con el niño;

      El becerro y el león joven

      Juntos, con un niño pequeño para guiarlos.

     (Isaías 11: 5-6)

Cuando Jesús regresa, viene como un juez misericordioso. Sin embargo, él nos llama a la justicia, que es la única manera en que podemos tener paz. John O'Malley, S.J. Dijo: “El Papa Francisco nos empuja continuamente más allá de las comodidades de nuestras fronteras religiosas para encontrarnos con la única familia humana.”

A veces, me he sentido desalentado acerca de la realización del Reino de Dios. Me digo a mí mismo, “¿Qué puedo hacer?” Entonces, me doy cuenta de que puedo hacer que el reino de Dios venga en mi propio corazón. Así es como tiene que suceder. Es una persona a la vez que trae justicia y paz a su propio ambiente.

Sin embargo, todavía estoy preocupado de que no puedo hacer más cuando veo a los manifestantes nativos americanos que son puestos por el gobierno. Simplemente están pidiendo que la tubería que transporta petróleo no pase por sus tierras. Firmar la petición en su nombre y unirse a otros que se oponen a la acción, no parece haber ayudado. Entonces, veo a tantos afroamericanos inocentes, incluso a niños, siendo asesinados casi todos los días. La preocupación por los inmigrantes también está pesando en mi corazón, por no hablar de todas las atrocidades en otros países.

Aunque a menudo me siento abrumado por las situaciones en nuestro mundo, me recuerdo a mí mismo que Dios puede sacar lo bueno del mal. Siempre aprecio las cosas positivas que presentan los periodistas tras compartir las trágicas historias. El bien hecho por la gente común, incluso los niños pequeños, me da esperanza.

¡Qué importante es esto hoy! Debemos seguir amando y cuidando a todos nuestros hermanos y hermanas, los hijos amados de nuestro Padre celestial. Jesús vino y vendrá por todos nosotros. Jesús es el Señor de todos, nuestro Misericordioso Juez, y nuestro Príncipe de Paz.

November 27, 2016 - Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord

First Sunday of Advent - Year A

Reading 1: Isaiah 2: 1-5
Response:  Psalm 122
Reading 2: Rom.13:11-14
Gospel: Matt. 24:37-44


“Advent” means “coming.”  For that reason we call the time before Christmas the Season of Advent. The emphasis on beautiful lighting during the Christmas season reminds us that Jesus is the Light of the World. His coming made the world a better place because of the love He gave and that He asks His followers to share.


How can we  prepare for the coming of Jesus?

There are many ways Christians choose to prepare His way. In spite of the commercialism which has sometimes distracted us from the real meaning of Christmas, we still see some aspects of the spirit of Christ in the outreach to those in need and taking time to be with family and friends, and the effort to go to Church on the holy day.


St. John the Baptist’s admonition to prepare the way of the Lord makes me question whether there is something more to be done as we await the coming of the Lord. Is there a deeper way of preparing for his coming in the midst of the busyness of this time?

Do we need to be reminded that Christ comes to us daily in the form of brothers and sisters who need our love? Besides the material needs, there are so many who are lonely, who are grieving, who are not understood, who need forgiveness, who need faith, who need encouragement, who need purpose, who need to know of God’s love and presence. How can we attempt to fulfill those needs? Let us ask the Lord to open our eyes and hearts to recognize the coming of Jesus in these people.


Another way I find helpful to keep Christ in Christmas is to focus on one of the Names of Jesus during the day. In the official prayers of the Church, we find this practice in the O Antiphons from December 20-25.  However, there are many more names of Jesus besides those seven: Wisdom, Lord, Root of Jesse, Key of David, Dayspring, King of nations, Emmanuel, God with Us. 
Some names which might keep us focused earlier in Advent are the following: Everlasting Light,  Redeemer, Glory of  Israel, Anointed One, Beloved Son, Gift of God, etc. All these and many more can be found in the Bible.

Let us keep our eyes on the Lord by simply recalling one of his names as we go about our busy days.

Spanish Translation of Reflection Above...

Prepara el Camino del Señor

“Adviento” significa “venir”. Por eso llamamos la época antes de Navidad la Temporada de Adviento. El énfasis en la iluminación hermosa durante la estación de la Navidad nos recuerda que Jesús es la luz del mundo. Su venida hizo al mundo un lugar mejor debido al amor que Él dio y que Él pide a Sus seguidores compartir.

¿Cómo podemos prepararnos para la venida de Jesús?

Hay muchas maneras en que los cristianos eligen preparar Su camino. A pesar del mercantilismo que a veces nos ha distraído del verdadero significado de la Navidad, todavía podemos ver algunos aspectos del espíritu de Cristo en el acercamiento a los necesitados y tomar tiempo para estar con la familia y los amigos y el esfuerzo de ir a la Iglesia en el día santo.

La advertencia de San Juan Bautista para preparar el camino del Señor me hace cuestionar si hay algo más que hacer mientras esperamos la venida del Señor. ¿Existe una manera más profunda de prepararse para su venida en medio de la ocupación de este tiempo?

¿Necesitamos recordar que Cristo viene a nosotros diariamente en forma de hermanos y hermanas que necesitan nuestro amor? Además de las necesidades materiales, hay tantos que están solos, que están afligidos, que no son entendidos, que necesitan perdón, que necesitan fe, que necesitan aliento, que necesitan propósito, que necesitan conocer el amor y la presencia de Dios. ¿Cómo podemos intentar satisfacer esas necesidades? Pidamos al Señor que abra nuestros ojos y corazones para reconocer la venida de Jesús en estas personas.

Otra manera que encuentro útil para mantener a Cristo en Navidad es centrarse en uno de los Nombres de Jesús durante el día. En las oraciones oficiales de la Iglesia, encontramos esta práctica en las O Antífonas del 20 al 25 de diciembre. Sin embargo, hay muchos más nombres de Jesús además de los siete: Sabiduría, Señor, Raíz de Isaí, Llave de David, Princesa, Rey de las naciones, Emmanuel, Dios con Nosotros. Algunos nombres que nos podrían mantener enfocados antes en Adviento son los siguientes: Luz eterna, Redentor, Gloria de Israel, Ungido, Hijo Amado, Regalo de Dios, etc. Todos estos y muchos más se pueden encontrar en la Biblia.

Mantengamos nuestros ojos en el Señor simplemente recordando uno de sus nombres a medida que avanzamos en nuestros días ocupados.

November 20, 2016 - Feast of Christ the King

Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year C

Reading I:  2 Samuel 5:1-3
Response:  Ps.122
Reading II: Colossians1:12-20
Gospel: Luke 23: 35-43

In this week’s Gospel, we hear the beautiful words of the “good thief,”...“Remember me when you come into your kingdom.” We also rejoice in Jesus’ touching response: “I promise you that today you will be with me in paradise.” Somehow, the thief was able to recognize the holiness of Jesus and to trust in his mercy. This had to be a very special grace. He was granted this gift out of the pure abundance of God’s mercy. What peace and joy must have filled his heart!

Yes, we are also blessed to have such a loving and generous Savior. As we contemplate the image of Christ the King, we see him gesturing peace. In the Scriptures, we often hear him offering us peace. However, like the good thief, we must trust in his goodness and surrender ourselves to Him as our King if we are to have that peace. We need to follow his ways acknowledging that his way of love is the only way we can have peace in our families, our country, and in our world.

This is so important these days as our country, torn apart politically, must strive to come together in the aftermath of a very deeply divisive election. Let us remember that the important thing is to
maintain good relationships not only with those who agree with us, but also with those who see things differently.

This can start with praying especially for them, and respecting them although we may not agree with them. We need to move on, despite our own concerns and fears. Jesus is still King.

In the image above, we see that he holds the world in his hands. Presently, things seem to be out of control, but, as the song goes... “He’s got the whole world in his hands.” In spite of our mistakes and sinfulness, “the Lord can write straight with crooked lines.”

Sometimes, we need to go through difficult times to remind ourselves that we need God. Tragedy can bring us to our knees. However, we read in Holy Scripture that “for those who love God, all things work together unto good.” (Romans 8:28)


See our new blog Spanish Translation below:

En el Evangelio de esta semana, escuchamos las hermosas palabras de el “buena ladrón,”
…“Acuérdate de mí cuando vengas en tu reino.” Nosotros también regocijo en respuesta tocar a Jesús: “Te prometo que hoy estará conmigo en el paraíso.” De alguna manera, el ladrón fue capaz de reconocer la santidad de Jesús y confiar en su misericordia. Esto tenía que ser una gracia muy especial. Se le concedió este regalo fuera de la pura abundancia de la misericordia de Dios. Lo que la paz y la alegría debe de haber llenado su corazón!

Sí, también la suerte de tener un Salvador tan amoroso y generoso. Al contemplar la imagen de Cristo Rey, lo vemos haciendo un gesto de paz. En las Escrituras, que a menudo le oímos nos ofrece la paz. Sin embargo, como el buen ladrón hay que confiar en su bondad y entrega a Él como nuestro Rey, si queremos tener esa paz. Necesitamos seguir sus caminos reconociendo que su forma de amor es la única manera que podemos tener paz en nuestras familias, nuestro país y en nuestro mundo.

Esto es tan importante en estos días como nuestro país, desgarrado políticamente, deben esforzarse para reunirse como consecuencia de una elección muy profundas divisiones. Recordemos que lo importante es mantener buenas relaciones no sólo con los que están de acuerdo con nosotros, pero también para aquellos que lo ve cosas de manera diferente.

Esto puede comenzar con la oración especialmente para ellos, y respetarlos aunque no estemos de acuerdo con ellos. Tenemos que seguir adelante a pesar de nuestras propias preocupaciones y temores. Jesús sigue siendo el rey.

En la imagen de arriba vemos que sostiene el mundo en sus manos. En este momento, las cosas parecen estar fuera de control, pero, como dice la canción: “Él tiene el mundo entero en sus manos.” A pesar de nuestros errores y pecaminoso, “el Señor puede escribe derecho con líneas torcidas.”

A veces, tenemos que pasar por momentos difíciles de recordar que necesitamos a Dios. Tragedia nos puede poner de rodillas. Sin embargo, leemos en la Santa Escritura que “para aquellos que aman a Dios, todas las cosas les ayudan a bien.” (Romanos 8:28)

November 13, 2016 - the Destruction of the Temple

The Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year C

Reading I: Malachi 3: 19-20a
Psalm: 98
Reading II: 2 Thessalonians 3: 7-12
Gospel: Luke 21:5-19

In the first reading we hear of death and destruction, and it seems that God is angry and punishing people. However, when we see the face of God in Jesus, we see a loving and merciful God. How can we explain some of the violence that is attributed to God and seemingly encouraged by him? I used to question the use of some
of the Psalms which seem to be asking God’s vengeance on our enemies.
       
Fr. Ron Rolheiser, OMI, writes: “God is non-violent. God does not prescribe violence. Violence should never be rationalized in God’s name.” That is clear in Christian revelation. To support this, Fr. Ron tells us to keep two things in mind: First, that when the Scripture speaks about God as if he is angry, etc., it is speaking “anthropomorphically.” That simply means that we are projecting our own human thoughts and feelings into God. When Scripture says that we will experience God’s wrath it doesn’t mean that God is angry and will punish us. There is a natural result of sin which serves to punish people. Sometimes, dealing with the results of sin can be devastating. Relationships can be destroyed, physical pain can result, and difficult and painful circumstances can be experienced.

Another caution when studying the Scriptures, is to remember that it can be deceiving to interpret some things written in the Bible literally. Words have meanings which change over time. For example, teenagers do a good job of confusing us when they say something is “bad” when they actually mean “good” or “cool” or even “great.”  However, we can usually interpret the spoken word correctly. The challenge is when we have a written word that was used long before we were born, or when it is in a language which we do not know.

Father Ron talks about the example of archetypical stories to teach lessons, but which were not intended to be taken literally. An archetypical story is a universal symbol or representation. One example might be “mother earth” because it nourishes, sustains, gives comfort like a mother. A journey can also represent life with its up’s and down’s. Many archetypical stories represent good vs. evil.  A scapegoat represents a person who is blamed for everything that goes wrong even when he/she is not responsible.

Fr. Ron cites God’s command to the Israelites to kill all the inhabitants of Canaan when they enter the Promised Land. That is simply a metaphor (an implied comparison) to do away with all things which might tempt them to wander from the path of holiness.  This reminds me of the advice given at Weight Watchers meetings. A recommendation is to remove items which are trigger foods from your living situation. In that way, you will not be tempted so much.

What is to be concluded with all of this? Let us remember the human face of the merciful Jesus, the God-man. Fr. Ron quotes Walter Brueggermann as saying: “God is in recovery from all the violence that has been attributed to him and done in his name.” Let us hold in our hearts the words: “God is love.” (1 John 4:8).

November 6, 2016 - The Resurrection of the Dead

The Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time  -  Year C

Reading I:   2 Maccabees 7:1-2, 9-14
Response :  Psalm 17
Reading II:  2 Thessalonians 2:6-3:5
Gospel:  Luke 20:27-28

In today’s Gospel, we find the Sadducees attempting to discredit Jesus’ teaching about the resurrection of the dead. The Sadducees did not believe in bodily resurrection. Humans survived as ghosts in a place called Sheol, a shadowy underworld. On the other hand, the Pharisees believed that the afterlife was an extension of this life into eternity. The Sadducees considered this foolish.

The Hebrew Scriptures had preserved the brave words of one of the seven brothers who refused to disobey the law by eating pork. His response to the threat of death was the following: “It is my choice to die at the hands of men with the hope God gives of being raised up by him.”

Some Sadducees decided to try to trap Jesus by posing a situation in which a woman had been married seven times. According to the law, if a man died childless, his brother was to marry the wife and raise children on behalf of his deceased sibling. The story proposed that there would be seven brothers who could claim the wife. Jesus was asked which one she would belong to at the resurrection.

Jesus response was that the risen life will be a new experience in which we will share in the life and love of God. Limited earthly experiences will be replaced by more profound ones which will provide for unity with God and one another on a new level. Jesus said that we cannot even imagine what God has prepared for those who love him.

We have all heard of near-death experiences of people who are reluctant to return to earth because of the peace and joy they had, as a taste of heaven. This can be a source of comfort to us as our loved ones are called home to God.

As Catholics, we believe in the Communion of Saints, a unity with those who have gone before us and those of us still here on earth. Again, we do not know exactly what form our reunion in heaven will take. Our God is a God of love and surprises. We can look forward to the best surprise of all!!!

October 30, 2016 - Jesus visits Zacchaeus' Home

The Thirty-first Sunday of Ordinary Time  - Year C

Reading I: Wisdom 11:22-12:2

Reading II: 2 Thessalonians 1:11-2:2

Gospel:  Luke 19: 1-10

In our first reading today, we read words of mercy again: “You  are all powerful enough to do anything, but you are merciful to everyone; you overlook our sins and give us time to repent.” (Wisdom 11:23) “O Lord, because it is yours, you love all living things.” (Wisdom 11:26) “Your immortal spirit is in every one of them, and so you gently correct those who sin against you.” (Wisdom 12:1-2)Jesus provides for us the human face of God. His interactions with Zacchaeus reflect the sentiments attributed to God in the Book of Wisdom. He reads the heart of the tax-collector who has climbed a tree to see him. He reaches out to him by saying that he wants to stay at his house. How proud Zacchaeus must have felt to think that this popular man selected his home to visit! Being a man of wealth, he probably provided a delicious meal and was thrilled to have Jesus as his guest.

Of course, there were those who were jealous and complained that Jesus was again eating with sinners. Nonetheless, a deep connection was made between Jesus and Zacchaeus so that he had a conversion of heart. How startled the guests must have been when the tax collector stood up and said to Jesus: “Listen, sir! I will give half my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anyone, I will pay him back four times as much.”

Jesus must have truly rejoiced over Zacchaeus’ words. His response was, “Salvation has come to this house today, for this man, also, is a descendant of Abraham. The Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Jesus gives us examples of how to reach out to the lost. There are so many ways people today are “lost.” First, we must pray that they will have open hearts. Then, it is important to enter into their world and see through their eyes in order to make a connection. This demands sacrifice and perseverance. It also, requires that we allow them to find their own way while being there for support and continuing to love them whatever choices they make.

October 23, 2016 - The Publican and the Sinner

The Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year C

Reading I:  Sirach 35:12-18
Response: Psalm 34
Reading II: 2 Timothy 4: 6-8, 16-18
Gospel: Luke 18: 9-14

In today’s Gospel we are reminded of the correct attitude when we pray. Jesus tells the parable of the Pharisee and the Publican to teach us.

As one views that picture above, one can note the attitude of the Pharisee by his posture, as well as his words. He stands looking toward heaven as he reminds God of all his virtues. His prayer is one of boasting rather than of humble truth. He doesn’t recognize his own sinfulness. Also, he sees himself as superior to others.

On the other hand, we have the publican in a posture of humble acknowledgement of his human weaknesses. He pleads, “Have mercy on me, a sinner.” In the first reading from Sirach, we hear: “The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds.”

Jesus emphasizes the fact that the publican’s prayer will be heard by the Father. The Pharisee’s “so called” prayer was simply a litany of praise to himself.

Often we recognize faults in others, but fail to recognize our own shortcomings. Sometimes, the things that bother us in another are qualities we have ourselves. Let us extend mercy to our brothers and sisters as the Lord lavishes his mercy on us.

October 16, 2016 - Persistence in Prayer

The Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time  -  Year C

Reading 1:  Exodus 17:8-13
Psalm 121: 1-8
Reading II: 2 Timothy 3:14 - 4:2
Gospel: Luke 18: 1-8

A lesson from Exodus about persistence in prayer stands out as Moses kept up his hands raised in prayer while the conflict with the Amalekites was going on. As long as he persisted in prayer, Israel was winning. However, Moses could not continue that pose long without the help of Aaron and Hur who held up his arms when they began to droop. That was necessary until the evening so that the Israelites could win the battle.

That is how the Christian Community functions. Some are working diligently to spread the Gospel while others are supporting their efforts through prayer and sacrifice. In Monasteries and Houses of Prayer, that can be the main ministry. On the other hand, active Religious and other Christians offer their prayer and work for the good of all, especially for those who request their prayers.

Just as Moses appreciated the support of Aaron and Hur, we are grateful for those who help us in our challenging situations. It requires persistence and faith that the Lord is hearing us when there seems to be no solution to our problems. We need to trust that the Lord knows when and how to respond to our requests. We also need the comfort of those who provide kindnesses and support when things are difficult.

Each morning we, as Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, pray for our families, friends, the Pope, world leaders, etc. We also pray especially for the intentions of those who pray through the intercession of St. Katharine Drexel here at the Shrine or elsewhere.

Lord, help us to be steadfast in our prayer no matter how long we must persevere, trusting that you know best how and when to respond.

October 9, 2016 - The Ten Lepers

Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year C

Reading I: 2 Kings 5:14-17
Reading II: Timothy 2: 8-13
Gospel: Luke 17: 11-19

An attitude of gratitude is one of the signs of a happy person. Jesus knows this. In the picture above, one sees Jesus blessing the one leper who returned to give thanks. However, we also see Jesus looking pensively at the other nine who are rejoicing over their cure, but are oblivious of the one who made it possible. Obviously, they are centered on themselves.

In his human nature, Jesus probably felt hurt that only one returned expressed his gratitude. However, he may also have felt sorry that they did not have the attitude of gratitude which would make them happier people.

We all have ups and downs in our lives. However, one of the best ways of pulling oneself out of the doldrums is to list all the things for which we should be grateful. Some people keep gratitude journals. They write 3 things a day for which they are grateful. Then, they try to not repeat.  As time goes on, they begin to notice the smaller blessings, e.g. the beauty of a flower, the breeze on a hot summer’s day, the smile of a friend.

When I was working in campus ministry at Xavier University in New Orleans, many of our students came from poor and difficult circumstances. However, they had a joyous manner. It blew my mind when, during prayer, they thanked the Lord for getting them up in the morning. Not being a morning person myself, I had never even thought of thanking the Lord for getting me up. Sometimes, students can become teachers for their instructors.

One day Sr. Ivan and I visited Church Point in rural Louisiana. I was taken to visit an elderly couple who lived in a small shabby house. However, they were such joyous people as every other word out of their mouths was praising and thanking the Lord. I could see why the Lord has such love for the poor.

Just as any good parent wants his/her children to be happy, so does our Heavenly Father and Jesus want this for us. Let us strive to develop a strong attitude of gratitude even on those days when everything seems to be going wrong.

Lord, you have blessed us in so many ways, we thank you for all that was, that is, and that will be.