4th Sunday in Advent
Today’s Gospel recounts Mary’s Visitation to Elizabeth, where Mary’s perpetual virginity is highlighted through her sacred role as the New Ark of the Covenant, carrying the presence of God within her.
In the Old Testament, the Ark, built at God’s command, held the tablets of the Law, the manna, and Aaron’s staff, symbolizing God’s covenant, provision, and priestly authority. Likewise, Mary bore Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of the Law, the Bread of Life, and the Eternal High Priest. The Old Testament Ark was built and carried reverently, using poles to prevent direct contact, emphasizing its sanctity. We see this emphasized when Uzzah was struck down for touching it (2 Sam 6:6-7). This foreshadows Mary’s own sacredness. Like the Ark, she is untouchable, set aside entirely for God, embodying the divine mystery of His presence among us.
When David brings the Ark to Jerusalem, he travels to the hill country in haste, just as Mary does in today’s Gospel. David exclaims, “How can the Ark of the Lord come to me?” mirroring Elizabeth’s words: “And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” Both moments reveal awe at God’s nearness.
As the Ark brought blessings to the house of Obed-Edom for three months, Mary’s presence sanctifies Elizabeth’s home during her three-month stay. David’s dancing before the Ark parallels John the Baptist leaping in Elizabeth’s womb, both joyful responses to God’s presence.
Through these parallels, Mary’s role as the New Ark fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy: “The virgin shall conceive and bear a son.” Her perpetual virginity underscores her complete set-asideness, inviting us to rejoice in the mystery of God dwelling among us.
How can you cultivate a greater awareness of Christ’s presence in your daily life?
How might you respond with joy and reverence like Elizabeth and John?
What areas of your life might God be calling you to set aside for His glory, trusting Him more fully with your “yes”?
Spanish
El Evangelio de hoy relata la Visitación de María a Isabel, donde se destaca la virginidad perpetua de María a través de su papel Sagrado como el Arca de la Nueva Alianza, llevando dentro de ella la presencia de Dios.
En el Antiguo Testamento, el Arca, construida por mandato de Dios, contenía las tablas de la Ley, el maná y el bastón de Aarón, simbolizando el pacto, la providencia y la autoridad sacerdotal de Dios. De manera similar, María llevó en su seno a Jesucristo, el cumplimiento de la Ley, el Pan de Vida y el Sumo Sacerdote Eterno. El Arca del Antiguo Testamento fue construida y transportada con reverencia, usando varas para evitar el contacto directo, resaltando su santidad. Esto se enfatiza cuando Uza fue castigado por tocarla (2 Sam 6:6-7). Esto prefigura la propia sacralidad de María. Al igual que el Arca, ella es intocable, completamente consagrada a Dios, encarnando el misterio divino de Su presencia entre nosotros.
Cuando David lleva el Arca a Jerusalén, viaja apresuradamente hacia la región montañosa, al igual que María en el Evangelio de hoy. David exclama: “¿Cómo puede venir a mí el Arca del Señor?”, reflejando las palabras de Isabel: “¿Y de dónde a mí que la madre de mi Señor venga a verme?”. Ambos momentos revelan asombro ante la cercanía de Dios.
Así como el Arca trajo bendiciones a la casa de Obed-Edom durante tres meses, la presencia de María santifica el hogar de Isabel durante su estancia de tres meses. El baile de David ante el Arca se refleja en el salto de gozo de Juan el Bautista en el vientre de Isabel, ambos como respuestas alegres a la presencia de Dios.
A través de estos paralelos, el papel de María como el Arca Nueva cumple con la profecía de Isaías: “La virgen concebirá y dará a luz un hijo.” Su virginidad perpetua resalta su completa consagración invitándonos a regocijarnos en el misterio de Dios habitando entre nosotros.
¿Cómo puedes cultivar una mayor conciencia de la presencia de Cristo en tu vida diaria?
¿Cómo podrías responder con gozo y reverencia como Isabel y Juan?
¿Qué áreas de tu vida podría Dios estar llamándote a consagrar para Su gloria, confiando más plenamente en tu “sí”?
3rd Sunday in Advent
This week, we reflect on the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which teaches us about the perfect obedience and trust that God desires from us. "Where the head goes, the body follows"—just as Christ, the head of the Church, ascended to the Father, so too did Mary, His faithful Mother. In the Assumption, we see not only God’s grace but also His promise that those who live in faith and obedience to His will will share in His glory.
In the Gospel, St. Luke tells us, “Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled” (Luke 1:45). Mary’s response to God’s call was one of complete faith and trust, and she is the model for us all. She teaches us that holiness is achieved through surrendering our will to God, trusting that He will fulfill His promises in us.
Through the sacraments, especially the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we are given the grace to realign our hearts with God’s will. This helps us grow in the same obedience and trust that Mary exemplified throughout her life. Our ultimate goal is to one day be “assumed body and soul into the glory of heaven,” just as Mary was, where we will experience the beatific vision.
This week, reflect on Mary’s obedience and faith. How can you deepen your trust in God’s will and align your heart more fully with His? Ask Mother Mary to help lead you in this space.
Spanish
Esta semana reflexionamos sobre la Asunción de la Santísima Virgen María, que nos enseña acerca de la obediencia perfecta y la confianza que Dios desea de nosotros. "A donde vaya la cabeza, el cuerpo la seguirá": así como Cristo, cabeza de la Iglesia, ascendió al Padre, también lo hizo María, Su fiel Madre. En la Asunción vemos no solo la gracia de Dios, sino también Su promesa de que quienes viven en fe y obediencia a Su voluntad compartirán Su gloria.
En el Evangelio, San Lucas nos dice: “Dichosa tú que has creído, porque lo que te ha dicho el Señor se cumplirá” (Lucas 1:45). La respuesta de María al llamado de Dios fue de completa fe y confianza, y ella es un modelo para todos nosotros. Nos enseña que la santidad se alcanza al rendir nuestra voluntad ante Dios, confiando en que Él cumplirá Sus promesas en nosotros.
A través de los sacramentos, especialmente el Sacramento de la Reconciliación, recibimos la gracia para alinear nuestros corazones con la voluntad de Dios. Esto nos ayuda a crecer en la obediencia y confianza que María ejemplificó a lo largo de su vida. Nuestro objetivo final es el de algún día ser "asumidos en cuerpo y alma a la gloria del cielo", así como lo fue María, donde experimentaremos la visión beatífica.
Esta semana, reflexiona sobre la obediencia y la fe de María. ¿Cómo puedes profundizar tu confianza en la voluntad de Dios y alinear tu corazón más plenamente con Él? Pídele a nuestra Madre María que te guíe en este camino.
2nd Sunday in Advent
Baruch 5:1-9 | Psalm 126:1-6 | Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11 | Luke 3:1-6
"The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.”
Psalm 126
As this second week of Advent begins, we are called to remember how “ God is leading Israel in joy by the light of his glory, with his mercy and justice” (Baruch 5:9). While the days grow shorter and colder, our God is not in hibernation mode. He is alive and active in the world, even if we find ourselves in a season of hiddenness, silence, and waiting.
Dec. 8th is also the day we remember and honor the Immaculate Conception of Mary, her being conceived in the womb of St. Ann without the stain of original sin. In the 5th century, the Council of Ephesus (431 AD) and Chalcedon (451 AD) both declared Mary to be the Theotokos—”the Mother of God.” Mary gave birth not just to one aspect of Christ (his humanity or his divinity), but one divine person. This is the mystery of Jesus who lived, died, and resurrected for us in human history, almost two thousand years ago, “In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea” (Luke 3:1).
No one wants to lead us closer to Jesus than his own mother—honoring her takes nothing away from Christ. St. Maximilian Kolbe, a Franciscan martyr at Auschwitz, wrote that we need not be afraid of loving Mary too much, because “we can never love her more than Jesus did.” Indeed, as the Fourth Commandment calls us to honor our earthly fathers and mothers, how much more can we celebrate our Father in heaven and our Lady, the Mother of Christ our Savior?
What are your thoughts on Mary? Do you have a relationship with her or turn to her for prayer?
How might you or your family increase in devotion to Jesus through Mary this Advent season? (Praying the Rosary together, reading an Advent devotion, etc)
Do you have hope that God can move in and transform your life? Do you believe that “the one who began a good work in you will continue to complete it?” (Phil 1:6)
1st Sunday in Advent
Jeremiah 33:14-16 | Psalm 25:4-5, 8-10, 14 | 1 Thessalonians 3:12—4:2 | Luke 21:25-28, 34-36
“Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Luke 21:36
As we enter into the Advent season, it’s too easy to be tempted to jump straight into Christmas. Festive songs play over the radio, colorful holiday lights brighten the night sky in our neighborhoods, and we might be occupied with planning for Christmas gatherings and gift exchanges. However, as Catholics, we are called to remember how Christ came in total humility as an infant to save us and to prepare for when He comes again.
The task seems daunting, but it isn’t meant for us to do alone. In the second reading, St. Paul writes in hopes that the community might “abound in love for one another and for all.” This love binds our communities together, making them stronger and holier as we wait for the second coming of Christ.
These relationships help us to better our Church so that we can be prepared for the mission ahead. Jesus Himself says in the Gospel that we must “be vigilant at all times,” urging his disciples to be prepared, to stay alert and not fall into the daily anxieties that plague our minds. This Advent season, lean into the relationships that draw you closer to God. Take time to be present to the beauty of the season as we await the joy of Christmas Day.
1. What is one thing you can do to be more present this Advent season?
2. Who are the people in your community? Do they bring you closer in relationship to God?
Thirty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Deuteronomy 7:13-14 | Psalm 93:1, 1-2, 5 | Revelation 1:5-8 | John 18:33b-37
This Sunday, we celebrate the Solemnity of Christ the
King
a feast that calls us to acknowledge Christ’s reign over all creation. In the Gospel, Pilate questions Jesus: “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus reveals that His kingdom is not of this world. Unlike earthly kings, Christ's kingship is not about political power or division. His kingship is marked by kenosis—self-emptying—and redemptive sacrifice.
This mystery reveals that His sovereignty is paradoxical: He reigns not from a throne of gold but from the Cross, where He triumphs over sin and death. Through His Passion and Crucifixion, Jesus reveals His royal authority, summoning us to deeper conversion and sanctification. His kingdom is not merely a distant realm; it is His very body, and His body is the Church—a people called to bear witness to His reign on earth. As sojourners and journeymen in this world, we are invited to live within His heavenly Kingdom here on earth with the same humility, obedience, and mission.
As we anticipate His second coming and the fulfillment of all things, we’re reminded of our call to serve under His sovereign reign and to fulfill His mission. St. Ann will soon begin Mission Tracks, a four-step journey inviting each of us to encounter Jesus, establish purpose, explore our unique gifts, and be empowered to use them in service to others. Whether you’re new or seeking deeper connection, Mission Tracks is your next step in following Christ’s call to discipleship and service, helping build His Kingdom—His Church—here on earth.
Take the next step and learn more about Mission Tracks
Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Daniel 12:1-3 | Psalm 16:5, 8-11 | Hebrews 10:11-14, 18 | Mark 13:24-32
"...he is near, at the gates.”
Mark 13:29
One of Christ's challenges before his very first disciples was to “be ready.” Prepare for trial and tribulation. Stay vigilant. Be not afraid!
We do not know the hour of our death or judgment, and so much of life lies beyond our control. We can naturally tend towards doom and despair, and so it takes to surrender to lay down our anxieties and fears before the God of heaven and earth. The prophet Daniel both warned of the coming distress while also encouraging those who live wisely “shall shine brightly like the splendor of the firmament, and those who lead the many to justice shall be like the stars forever." (Dan 12:3).
St. Paul asserts that Christ “offered one sacrifice for sins, and took his seat forever at the right hand of God; now he waits until his enemies are made his footstool” (Heb. 10:13-14). Jesus himself speaks of disturbances and earthly kingdoms that shall pass, but he will remain Lord of all. If we stay near his heart, what shall we fear? We can take heart by looking back to the historical life of Christ on earth 2000 years ago, we can meet him in the Eucharist at every Mass today, and we can look with faith to his Second Coming in glory.
Jesus has a plan for our lives. Can we put our trust in him?
What takes up my attention, worry, or concern?
How might God be trying to get my attention? What does he want to say to bring comfort or challenge into my life?
Am I need of the sacrament of Confession? How can I make time to return to God with the time I have to live a life without fear?
Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
1 King 17:10-16 | Psalm 146: 7-10 | Hebrew 9:24-28 | Mark 12:38-44
“but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood.” - Mark 12:44
Jesus contrasts the pride of the scribes with the humble faith of a poor widow. The scribes’ display of piety is empty, performed for attention and honor with no real significance. They seek status, while their hearts lack true love and devotion. In contrast, Jesus draws attention to a widow who quietly gives her last two coins to the treasury, demonstrating pure generosity and trust.
This passage invites us to examine our own giving: Do we give only from what is extra, or do we give from our true heart? Sometimes, we may hesitate, questioning if we’re ready or if we have enough to offer. But Jesus assures us that giving what we have—even if it feels small or incomplete—holds great value. When we give, even from a place of poverty or uncertainty, self-sufficiency and self-reliance dies. Like the widow, we’re called to give with faith and surrender, trusting that God can multiply our small offerings. Her example shows that genuine faith does not rely on abundance but on trusting God with our small offerings.
Are there ever times when you perform works of piety solely for recognition? How can you begin to work on striving to live a hidden life of sincere faith, where your actions reflect genuine love and devotion rather than a desire for praise?
What is holding you back from giving your all to God?
Thirty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time
Deuteronomy 6:2-6 | Psalm 18:2-4, 47, 51 | Hebrews 7:23-28 | Mark 12:28b-34
St. Peter writes, "As He who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct" (1 Peter 1:15). Each of us is invited to a unique vocation – whether in priesthood, religious life, marriage, or single life – as a path to sanctification, drawing us into deeper love for God and neighbor. Though each vocation is distinct, all share this same call to holiness, nurtured by love, the sacraments, and the life of the Church. Embracing this call means recognizing that holiness is not a distant ideal solely for church leaders / professionals, but it’s a call that extends to all the faithful as a daily journey in our ordinary lives. By responding to God’s invitation with an open heart, we find true purpose and joy, allowing His love to flow through us and touch the world.
This week, take a moment to visit the adoration chapel and pray intentionally for vocations. Ask God for the grace to support others in their journey of discernment. Here are three ways to offer support:
If you see a calling in someone, ask them if they’ve considered it.
Approach them with reverence and sincerity.
Affirm the qualities you see that prompted you to ask.
Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Jeremiah 31:7-9 | Psalm 126: 1-6 | Hebrews 5:1-6 | Mark 10:46-52
“Master, I want to see.” - Mark 10:51
Your Way Becomes His Way
The story of Bartimaeus stands symbol of our journey from self-reliance to divine surrender. Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, was caught between two worlds—his old life and the call of Jesus. However, when Jesus called him, Bartimaeus threw aside his cloak, a significant act symbolizing his decision to leave his old world behind and embrace the new life Jesus offered. Jesus even gives Bartimaeus the free choice of continuing on with his old way “Go your way.” Yet, Bartimaeus “followed him on the way.” In this pivotal moment, his way became the Lord’s way.
Just as Bartimaeus surrendered his past for the freedom of following Christ, we too are called to serve in our ministry with a heart open to God's will. We often desire our own way, but true freedom and fulfillment come from surrendering our will to the Lord. As St. Paul reminds us, "God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7). Our generosity reflects our trust in God's provision and our commitment to His path.
This week, ask yourself: What are you holding onto that’s keeping you from fully living God’s way?
Twenty-Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Isaiah 53:10-11 | Psalm 33:4-5, 18-20, 22| Hebrew 4:14-16 | Mark 10:35-45
For the Son of Man did not come to be served
but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many – Mark 10:45
In this Gospel, James and John approach Jesus, asking for positions of honor at His right and left hand. Jesus responds by challenging their understanding of greatness, reminding them—and us—that true greatness comes through humble service and sacrifice, not status or power. Jesus invites us to "drink the cup" that He drinks, which symbolizes the willingness to give ourselves fully, just as He gave His life as a ransom for many.
This teaching connects deeply with our call to stewardship. As we reflect on God's abundant blessings in our lives, we are reminded that everything we have is a gift from Him. In the Old Testament, the tithe was a call to give back a portion of what we received, but in the New Covenant, we are called to give even more. It’s about offering a sacrificial gift—a return to the Lord for all He has generously bestowed upon us.
As we approach our stewardship campaign this weekend, we ask everyone to prayerfully consider pledging. Your gift not only supports the needs of our parish, but also deepens your commitment to the call of discipleship.
How can I offer my time, talents, and treasures more generously in response to all that God has given me?
In what ways can I make my giving a more sacrificial act of love, aligning it with Jesus' example of selfless service?
Twenty-Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Wisdom 7:7-11 | Psalm 90:12-17 | Hebrews 4:12-13 | Mark 10:17-30
"For human beings it is impossible, but not for God.
All things are possible for God.”
Mark 10:27
What if God doesn’t come through? What if I’m on my own? What if …
It’s easy to let anxiousness get the best of us, to catastrophize in our thoughts, and jump to the worst case scenario. We’re hesitant to surrender control as humans, and it often makes sense based on how we’ve been hurt. We can grasp for control through our means or our finances, and attempt to order our lives and cling on to everything.
Jesus invites us into a different way of being. “You’re lacking in one thing,” Christ challenges to the rich young man who has otherwise zealously kept to all the commandments of God. Jesus appeals to his heart to give up his attempt to control and order everything: “go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” (Mark 10:21).
Generosity is the antidote. Giving up control and embracing the adventure is what Christ offers. And that involves surrendering, giving your life away, and not trying to possess anymore. The rich young man went away sad, but we dont’ know the end of his story, just as we don’t fully know the end of ours. Perhaps, after grieving for his belongings and security, he came to acceptance and returned to Christ. We don’t know! But we can hope for the same courage for ourselves to say “yes” to trusting the Lord, following him wherever he invites us.
In what area is it difficult for you to trust in God’s plan for your life? In your finances, your time, your relationships, etc?
Does a part of you fear that God won’t provide if you are generous with your time, talent, or treasure?
What is the “one thing” Christ might be calling you to surrender?
Twenty-Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
Genesis 2:18-24 | Psalm 128:1-6 | Hebrews 2:9-11 | Mark 10:2-16
Embracing Sacrifice and Commitment in a World of Consumption
The readings for the Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time call us to reflect on the sacred vocation of marriage and the deeper meaning of commitment. In a culture that often prioritizes personal satisfaction and consumption, Jesus’ teachings remind us that true love requires sacrifice. Genesis 2:24 reveals that marriage is not just a union of two people but a profound bond where "a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh."
Jesus further emphasizes in the Gospel, "What therefore God has joined together, let no man put asunder" (Mark 10:9). This divine command challenges us to move beyond a consumer mindset that treats relationships as disposable. Instead, we are called to embrace the self-giving love that marriage demands—a love that mirrors Christ’s own sacrificial love for the Church.
St. Teresa of Calcutta warned against the destructive effects of a self-centered culture, saying, "The greatest destroyer of peace today is abortion, because it is a war against the child, a direct killing of the innocent child, murder by the mother herself." This speaks to the broader issue of how our society's focus on personal convenience can undermine the sanctity of life and the deep sacrifices that true love requires. St. Augustine reminds us, "God is the best and most faithful provider of all; He wills that in marriage one be fruitful and many children be brought up in piety" (De Bono Coniugali).
How can we resist the consumer culture that promotes self-gratification and instead cultivate a spirit of sacrifice and commitment in our relationships?
Twenty-Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Numbers 11:25-29 | Psalms 19:8, 10, 12-14 | James 5:1-6 | Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48
our words and actions are powerful.
Today’s readings highlight the significance of the things we say and do. When we align ourselves with or work against God’s will for our lives, we can create lasting consequences for ourselves and those around us.
Jesus strongly proclaims in the Gospel reading that “if your hand causes you to sin, cut it off.” While the statement is an exaggeration using strong, hyperbolic language, it signals to us that we have to take what we do seriously. The Lord desires our good, and He wants us to choose the path that leads us home to Him. For this reason, Jesus asserts that it is better to live without the things that lead us into sin if those things are keeping us from Heaven.
Maybe the music you listen to, the people in your social circle, the shows you watch, thenews you consume, or the books you read aren’t inherently sinful to engage with, but it’s important to ask yourself if you notice a difference in your own actions because of them. Maybe there are things God is asking you to let go of in order to better love Him and those around you.
1. Think about how you spend your time each week. Are there opportunities to spend more time serving others, growing in prayer, or connecting more deeply with those around you?
2. What are some things that you may need “cut off” that might be leading you away from God?
3. Practice saying no this week. Find something to fast from for the next few days to help you grow in discipline.
Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Wisdom 2:12, 17-20 | Psalm 54:3-6 and 8 | James 3:16—4:3 | Mark 9:30-37
“If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” -Mark 9:35
In today’s Gospel, the apostles discuss who is the greatest among them. Knowing what was on their hearts and minds, Jesus gathers them to remind them of a hard, counter-culture truth: the first shall be last, and the last shall be first. By asking His followers to be “last,” Jesus does not mean forgotten, abandoned or unprovided for. In fact, Jesus invites us into this posture of humility so that we can receive more, and receive from Him.
So often when we are tempted by the Enemy to put ourselves first, we are grasping for titles or possessions that will not satisfy us. The Lord created us for more; He created us for Eternity with Him. Yet He knows that as long as our hands are full of these self-obtained, worldly gains, we have no room to receive true life from Him as our Father. Jesus invites us to become little and humble like children, so that we may be sustained by Him, our Father, who wills our good more than we could ever imagine.
What area of your life do you most struggle with pride? (in the workplace, in conversations with family, self-image etc.)
What might Jesus’ invitation be to you in this place?
Who is one person you can put before yourself this week?
Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Isaiah 50:5-9a | Psalm 116:1-6, 8-9 | James 2:14-18 | Mark 8:27-35
"Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself,
take up his cross, and follow me.” – Mark 8:34
In this Sunday’s second reading, James speaks to the Jewish Christian community, emphasizing that both faith and works are essential for salvation. He strongly declares that “faith without works is dead,” (Jas 2:26) urging believers to reflect on the relationship between what they believe and how they act. While Jesus has already given us the free gift of salvation by taking our place and dying on the cross, James makes it clear that true faith cannot exist without showing itself through good actions. Mere belief, without accompanying good deeds, is insufficient for a genuine and living faith.
James is not suggesting that we earn our salvation through good works, but rather that our works are a natural and necessary expression of our faith. Simply claiming to be a Christian or professing belief in God isn’t enough. God, in His love, has given us free will, allowing us to accept or reject the gift of salvation. Our good works show our way of saying yes to this gift. Just because a gift is freely given doesn’t mean it will be accepted and received by everyone. James' statement serves as a powerful reminder that authentic faith requires a commitment to live it out through tangible actions.
How can you actively portray your faith through good deeds?
Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Isaiah 35:4-7a | Psalm 146:6-7, 8-9, 9-10 | James 2:1-5 | Mark 7:31-37
“Anyone who listens to the Word of God can and must speak and transmit it to others, to those who have never heard it, or who have forgotten it and buried under the thorny troubles and deceptions of the world” – Pope Benedict XVI
During the time of today’s Gospel story, society cast out those with any sort of physical impediment rendering them as unequal. Jesus transcends cultural and social boundaries in two ways.
He first takes the man “off by himself away from the crowd.” The act of taking the man aside demonstrates the need for spiritual openness. Many times we are too busy, indifferent, closed-off, and we cannot hear the voice of the Good Shepherd. We surround ourselves with too many distractions that can lead to a spiritual deafness. The Lord removes the man from the crowd, showing through example the need to step away from the noise of everyday life that hinders us from hearing the Word of God.
Secondly, “He put his finger into the man’s ears and, spitting, touched his tongue;” and said “‘Ephphatha!’— that is, ‘Be opened!’” This command signifies both a physical healing and a spiritual awakening to God’s word. Jesus had performed previous miracles where his mere words were enough to heal. But, here, we see His intentionality in intimacy. He displays his desire to draw close to us in our weaknesses. Jesus is not deterred by our faults.
This encapsulates the kerygma (the proclamation of the faith) message: that Jesus has come to heal, restore, and redeem, allowing us to be opened and hear the Word of God which awakens us to new life in Christ.
What are some habits that we have on a daily basis that keep us from hearing the voice of the Good Shepherd?
How might the Lord be calling us to remove ourselves from the crowd to better hear his voice (e.g. spend time in silence, go on a silent retreat, take a walk outside)?
Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-8 | Psalm 15:2-5 | James 1:17-18, 21b-22, 27 | Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23
“The one who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord.”
Psalm 15
Where does your heart lie?
In our readings this weekend we hear about living rightly according to God’s statutes, and decrees. For the Israelites who grew accustomed to living amongst Egyptian gods and idols, there were many behaviors and customs that needed course correction, and this is why there was such a proliferation of laws and commandments to set their behavior aright.
Jesus is certainly concerned with our right behavior and action—as James’ letter affirms us to be “doers of the word and not hearers only”-- but Jesus’ focus is on winning the battle for the heart, above all else. Jesus knows that he who wins the battle of the heart wins the soul of the whole woman or man.
The heart is sometimes referred to as the dwelling place of God, the seat of the person, or the inmost self. "From within people, from their hearts, come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed,” Jesus declares (Mark 7). To be a disciple in Christ’s footsteps is to constantly seek to purify our hearts, not just live by right action alone. This is long and exacting work, requiring the grace of God to transform our conscience, attitudes, and inner desires.
Our hearts should be moved to carry the burdens of our neighbors. Our hearts must be open to be loved by the one who first loved us (1 John 4:19).
Do you believe that God is seeking you and cares for your heart?
How does your heart inform your decisions and the way you look at others?
What small service might you do for someone in need this week?
Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Scripture and Early Church Teachings on the Eucharist
Proverbs 9:1-6 | Psalm 34:2-7 | Ephesians 5:15-20 | John 6: 51-58
“If it's just a symbol, to hell with it.” - Flannery O'Connor
Rooted in Sacred Scripture and affirmed by early Church Fathers like St. Ignatius of Antioch (died c. 108 AD), who passionately described the Eucharist as the "flesh of our Savior Jesus Christ" (Letter to the Ephesians, 20:2), we explore the Scriptural, theological, and historical foundations that affirm the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist.
Scripture, particularly John 6:51-58 and Matthew 26:26-28, unequivocally presents the Eucharistic elements as Christ's body and blood through His literal words—"This is my body" and "This is my blood." Early Church Fathers routinely affirmed this understanding. St. Justin Martyr (c. 100-165 AD) elaborated in his First Apology, portraying bread and wine as transformed into Christ's body and blood, spiritually nourishing believers (First Apology, 66). St. Irenaeus of Lyons (c. 130-202 AD) defended Christ's real presence against Gnostic interpretations, affirming the Eucharistic elements as truly Christ's body and blood (Against Heresies, Book 4, Chapter 18). St. Cyril of Jerusalem (c. 313-386 AD) detailed the Eucharist in his Catechetical Lectures, emphasizing its role in imparting forgiveness of sins and eternal life (Catechetical Lectures, 22:1-4).
In John 6, the shift from the Greek verb "phagein" (to eat) to "trogein" (to chew or to gnaw) occurs during Jesus' discourse on the Bread of Life. In the discourse, Jesus begins by contrasting the manna eaten by the Israelites in the wilderness with the true bread from heaven, which He identifies as Himself. He first uses the word "phago" (to eat) to describe this act in general terms. “Your ancestors ate (phago) the manna…I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats (phago) of this bread will live forever” (John 6:49-51). The Jews are shocked at this statement, and instead of clarifying that it was only a metaphor, Jesus intensifies His language to demonstrate the reality of what He is saying. In verse 54, the word “eat” shifts from “phago” (to eat) to “trogo” (to chew/gnaw), emphasizing the reality of consuming his flesh and blood, “those who eat (trogo) my flesh and drink my blood…the one who eats (trogo) this bread will live forever” (John 6:54-58).
Reflecting on the significance of Jesus' use of the Greek word "trogein" in John 6:54, this vivid language deepens appreciation of the Eucharist as a tangible encounter with Christ's sacrifice, affirming its reality beyond merely symbolism and its visceral significance in early Christian belief. The Eucharist thus stands as the sacramental heart of Christian worship, where believers partake in the true body and blood of Christ, uniting them intimately with their Savior and nourishing their souls unto eternal life.
Join us for our final installment where we will celebrate a teaching Mass, demonstrating how all these theological, scriptural, and historical insights converge in our Liturgy.
Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
1 Kings 19:4-8 | Psalm 34:2-9 | Ephesians 4:30—5:2 | John 6:41-51
Deepening Our Understanding of the True Presence
We explore deeper into the heart of the Eucharist—the True Presence of Christ among us. Echoing St. Athanasius, who said, 'He indeed assumed humanity that we might become God' (On the Incarnation, 54), the Eucharist presents a profound encounter where Christ—body, blood, soul, and divinity—becomes tangibly present. Scripture, particularly John 6:41-51, reinforces this truth as Jesus declares, 'I am the living bread that came down from heaven' (John 6:51).
Belief in the Real Presence calls us to prepare spiritually, akin to the reverence shown by the early Church. Reflecting on the metaphor that the Eucharist helps us shed our spiritual 'Egypt,' we recognize its transformative power to liberate us from sin and spiritual bondage, guiding us towards eternal life with God. This sacrament reminds us of our deep communion with Christ, who nourishes and sustains our souls.
Through the Eucharist, we experience a mystical union with Christ, participating in His sacrifice and receiving His life-giving grace. Early Church Fathers such as St. Polycarp emphasized the Eucharist's role in maintaining Church unity and true faith (Letter to the Philippians). Similarly, St. Clement of Alexandria described it as a sacred meal where believers receive the life of Christ, becoming partakers in the divine nature (The Instructor, Book 1, Chapter 6).
Reflecting on the true presence of Jesus—body, blood, soul, and divinity—in the Eucharist, how does this belief influence your daily attitudes and behaviors?