regan.ocd – Page 2 – SPRINGS OF LIVING WATER

January 25, 2025January 25, 2025

26th JANUARY 2025

SUNDAY, THIRD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME (WORD OF GOD SUNDAY)

Neh 8:2-10 Ps 19 1 Cor 12:12-30 Lk 1:1-4; 4:14-21

UNITED IN FAITH, JOY AND SERVICE

Today we celebrate two important aspects of our lives: our faith and our national pride. The readings of the day call us to embrace unity, joy, and service. At the same time, today is Republic Day in India, a day we honour the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, which are the pillars of our Constitution. In a certain orphanage, people of different backgrounds used to gather to render service. Though they came from different religions and cultures, they worked side by side, sharing stories and smiles. One young woman, who had been feeling alone, shared how much the community had supported her and made her feel welcome. This simple act of serving others created a bond among them, and joy was found in their unity. It is a simple story but reminds us that when we come together in service and love, we experience true joy. Even when we have differences, we are united in our desire to help others. This is a powerful reminder of the strength we can find in community.

The words of prophet Nehemiah in today’s first reading, “The joy of the Lord is your strength,” remind us that unity in faith gives us strength and hope. This unity is what holds us together. From our earliest years we are taught that we are one people, but not the same; within that unity, there is a great diversity. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us that the diversity of gifts and cultures enriches the whole Church. In the same way, our country is enriched by its many languages, traditions, and customs. When we come together in unity, our faith and our community grow stronger. The Responsorial Psalm of the day is a reminder that the beauty and power of God’s law give us life and bring us joy. This joy is not a passing feeling but a deep happiness that comes from following God’s commandments and living according to His will. Pope Francis reminds us that Christian unity is a gift from God, and we must open our hearts to receive it. When we live with this joy, we are transformed, and that joy becomes our strength.

St. Augustine once said that a Christian “should be an alleluia from head to foot.” This means that joy should be present in everything we do, be it in our work, our relationships, or our service to others. In today’s gospel, Jesus tells us that He has come to bring good news to the poor and freedom to those who are oppressed. This mission was not just for Him alone; it is a call for all of us as members of the Church. We are called to share this good news with others and serve those in need. Pope John Paul II once said that the Church’s unity is a gift that comes with a responsibility to promote understanding and peace among all people. In our world, which is divided by conflict, the Church is called to be a sign of hope and unity.

So how can we be the instruments of unity, joy, and service? Firstly, in our daily lives, we can take small steps to build bridges with those who are different from us. Whether it is reaching out to a neighbour of a different faith or simply being kind to someone in need, we can promote unity in our community. Secondly, we can follow the example of Jesus by serving those in need. Whether it is volunteering in our parish, helping out at a local charity, or offering support to someone going through a difficult time, we are called to serve with love. Thirdly and lastly, we are called to the mission of spreading joy. We are reminded that the joy of the Lord is our strength. Let us strive to live with joy, even in difficult times. A smile, a kind word, or a simple gesture can bring joy to others and remind them of God’s love.

St. Paul tells us that we are all part of one body, the Body of Christ, and each of us has an important role to play. By embracing our differences and working together in love, we reflect the values of our faith and the ideals of our Republic. Let us commit ourselves therefore to living out our faith with joy and unity. May the joy of the Lord be our strength as we work together to build a community that reflects the love of God and the values of justice, liberty, and equality.

Response: Your words, O Lord, are Spirit and life.

January 24, 2025January 24, 2025

25th JANUARY 2025

Today, January 25, is the Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul

SATURDAY, SECOND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul

Acts 22: 3-16/ Acts 9: 1-22 Ps 117: 1-2 Mk 16: 15-18

THE ‘SCALES’ IN OUR HEARTS

Today’s feast reminds us that conversion is a lifelong process. Each of us is in constant need of spiritual renewal. To call ourselves Christians is not merely to bear a title; it is to live a life that reflects Christ Himself. As we grow in conformity to Him, this inner transformation fundamentally changes how we view the world and others. We begin to see Christ in every person we encounter, recognizing His presence in the faces of our neighbours, especially in the poor, the marginalized, and the suffering. Paul’s journey teaches us this profound truth.

On the road to Damascus, Paul was struck down by a vision that forever changed his life. Falling to the ground, he heard the voice of Christ: “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” (Acts 9:4). Paul’s physical blindness in that moment symbolized his spiritual blindness – his inability to see Christ in others, especially in those he persecuted. However, when Ananias laid hands on Paul and prayed for him, “something like scales” fell from his eyes (Acts 9:18), and he regained his sight – both physically and spiritually. What were these “scales” that had prevented Paul from recognizing Christ in those around him? Perhaps they were the same obstacles we often face – ignorance, prejudice, pride, self-righteousness, and stubbornness.

We must ask ourselves: What are the scales that blind me from seeing Christ in those around me? Anger, jealousy, resentment, unforgiveness, and a desire for revenge can harden our hearts and distort our vision. To remove these scales, we must turn to God in humility. Time spent in prayer reveals the sins hidden in our hearts, and through the sacrament of reconciliation, we receive the grace to change. As we grow in our relationship with God through prayer and the sacraments, we experience inner liberation. The scales fall away, and we begin to see clearly the face of Christ in every person we meet.

Response: Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel.

January 23, 2025January 23, 2025

24th JANUARY 2025

When YAHshua Ascended He Gave Gifts to Men — It's Midnight Ministries

FRIDAY, SECOND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Memorial of Saint Francis de Sales

Heb 8: 6-13 Ps 85: 8, 10-14 Mk 3: 13-19

REJOICING IN ETERNAL GIFTS

The world teaches us values that are power-centric. There is a constant hankering for power of some kind or the other, either for personal advancement or for the subjugation of the other. We see this clearly in the political arena, but sadly even in the church and in families. Today’s gospel, however, teaches us something different. We have Jesus calling many, and all of them listened to the voice of the Good Shepherd and followed him into the hills. Each of them, like good, faithful sheep, endured the hardship of the climb out of love for Jesus. If power were a value in itself, Jesus would have definitely given it to all, but we see him giving it only to a few.

True happiness lies not in power, not in the gifts or talents we possess, nor even in our virtues, but in understanding and humbly accepting who we are. “Do not rejoice at this, that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven” (Lk 10:20). Jesus is not telling us not to rejoice over our power over the ‘devils’ or any earthly achievement. But these are transitory and passing, even though they are gifts from God. They can only give us momentary joy. A better and lasting reason to rejoice is rather the certainty that we are loved by God and belong to Him. “Little flock, it is the Father’s good pleasure to give you this kingdom” (Lk 12:32). Today we may be successful; tomorrow, perhaps not.

Today praised, tomorrow criticized. We can apply the same principle to our spiritual life too. Some days we may be able to overcome every trial and temptation, and on other days feel utterly crushed by them. Our heavenly destination, however, is unchanging, eternal, and certain. This is a gift that is not passing; “neither moth nor rust consumes, and thieves do not break in and steal” (Mt 6:20). May we always set our minds “on things that are above, not on things that are on earth” (Col 3:2).

Response: Merciful love and faithfulness have met.

January 22, 2025January 21, 2025

23rd JANUARY 2025

Continuing the Mission - Catholic Daily Reflections

THURSDAY, SECOND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Heb 7: 25 — 8:6 Ps 40: 7-10, 17 Mk 3: 7-12

GOD’S LOVE PURIFIES US

Jesus went about healing people afflicted with sickness and infirmities. Crowds of people flocked to Him as He continued His mission in different places. Mark names seven regions, Jewish and non-Jewish. His gospel is for all. The ordinary, needy people crowded around him to touch Him and experience the healing that comes from Him, but the officials, out of jealousy, tried to stop Him. The cry of the unclean spirits echoes Mark’s theme: ‘You are the Son of God’. This is not, however, a cry of faith but one of recognition that God the Creator is conquering chaos through Jesus. It is a plea from the evil spirits for Jesus to stop, but he will not stop till all evil is purged from our lives. Everyone who reads about Jesus in Mark’s gospel has to decide for himself or herself: Who is this man? The question we have to ponder is, “Who is Jesus for me?”

Jesus also teaches us how to respond to opposition. In this case, the opposition was against God’s will and therefore sinful. Jesus, however, knew that nothing could separate Him from His Father’s love and that God’s grace is present and active even where there is sin. Trusting in that grace, he remained faithful to the mission. We too encounter opposition. Sometimes it is deserved; at other times it is not. Sometimes those opposing us have good intentions, and sometimes not. In every case, God is present, strengthening us through this opposition. Let us be attentive to his grace and use the opportunity to place our trust in Him more fully.

The scene of the gospel of today demonstrates that when the fire of God’s love encounters anything other than love, it must devour it. It is not enough to acknowledge God’s presence. We must allow our worldly ‘peace’ to be disturbed. We must allow our hearts to be purified. We must give up all self-reliance and allow God’s love to purify us.

Response: See, I have come, Lord, to do your will.

January 21, 2025January 21, 2025

22nd JANUARY 2025

Mark #10: The Heart of God vs The Hardened Heart (Mark 3:1-6) — Eastgate

WEDNESDAY, SECOND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Heb 7: 1-3, 15-17 Ps 110 : 1- 4 Mk 3: 1-6

HOPE IN JESUS URGES US ON

On a previous occasion, as found in the gospels, the Pharisees had accused Jesus’ disciples of violating the law of Sabbath. Today, the Lord Himself is accused of the same violation of the law because He healed a man with a paralysed hand on the Sabbath. Through today’s gospel, Jesus wants to remind us that doing good must not occur solely at specific times; showing compassion to our fellow humans should flow spontaneously from the heart.

The withered hand can be seen as a symbol of a soul that is burdened by sin and disconnected from God’s grace. Jesus had no reason to ask the man to stretch out his hand; healing wasn’t dependent on the man’s participation. Jesus wanted to teach all those present that the very thing that caused the man to be ostracised from society was a metaphoric sign of belonging. Jesus saw a man with a need, not a needy man. Just as Jesus restored the withered hand, so is He ready to restore full and free salvation to every withered life. God gives him the grace of healing through the call of Jesus to do it, to stretch forth that hand. Jesus comes not just to make limp hands whole, but He sees us in our misery. That is why He has come from heaven to deliver us from sin and guilt because he is a holy God who is jealous for the well-being of His people. The Lord is willing to break traditions and rules for the sake of compassion. For Him, the law should ensure freedom and wellbeing of human life; it should value human life and put it at the centre.

The first reading from the letter to the Hebrews tells us that Christ interceded for us to His Father. It is through Christ, the only Begotten Son, that we reach the forgiveness of God. He is both King of Peace and the High Priest of God. Let us pray to Him and ask him to intercede for us, especially when we are burdened by sin and disconnected from the Father.

Response: You are a priest forever, in the line of Melchizedek.

January 20, 2025January 20, 2025

21st JANUARY 2025

Hebrews 6:10-20 - NLT - For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard...

TUESDAY, SECOND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Memorial of Saint Agnes

Heb 6: 10-20 Ps 111 : 1-2, 4-5, 9-10 Mk 2: 23-28

NURTURING THE SPIRIT OF PRAISE

The first reading offers a profound insight into the nature of divine love and human response. It assures us that any act of love, no matter how small, performed for the glory of God or His saints is a tangible expression of our faith. “God would not be so unjust as to forget all you have done… for the saints.” This promise of eternal salvation, rooted in acts of love, is a source of immense comfort and inspiration. Our loving and compassionate Lord, ever generous and merciful, rewards our efforts in ways that often surpass our expectations. We have witnessed countless instances of God’s divine providence. His grace sustains me, His mercy forgives my sins, and His love fills my heart with joy. These experiences have deepened my faith and inspired me to serve Him with renewed zeal.

Love and faith are the twin pillars that support our spiritual journey. They ignite hope within us, empowering us to work tirelessly for the Kingdom of God. St. Agnes, whose feast we celebrate today, is a radiant example of this unwavering love. She defied the Roman Emperor, choosing faith over worldly desires. Her unwavering devotion to Christ serves as an inspiration to all who seek to live a life of faith.

In contrast to the Pharisees, who were blinded by self righteousness, the Psalmist extols the Lord’s graciousness and mercy. “Great are the works of the Lord, to be pondered by all who love them.” He recognised God’s divine providence in every aspect of his life, and his heart overflowed with gratitude. Let us emulate the Psalmist’s spirit of praise and thanksgiving. Despite our daily failings, God continues to shower us with His boundless love and mercy. He strengthens us, renews us, and empowers us to persevere on our spiritual journey. As we journey through life, let us strive to live a life of love, faith, and service. May we always seek to glorify God in all that we do, and may His love continue to inspire and transform us.

Response: The Lord keeps his covenant ever in mind.

January 19, 2025January 19, 2025

20th JANUARY 2025

OLD AND NEW [Mark 2:18-22] – Today's Gospel Reading in the Mass | A CHRISTIAN PILGRIMAGE

MONDAY, SECOND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Heb 5: 1-10 Ps 110 : 1-4 Mk 2: 18-22

EMBRACING THE NEWNESS CHRIST BRINGS

In the first reading from Hebrews, we encounter a profound insight into the role of the priest. A priest is chosen from among the people and appointed to act on their behalf in matters related to God. This role carries a weighty responsibility, one that requires compassion and empathy. The priest must be able to understand the struggles and temptations of those entrusted to him. Here, we see a beautiful picture of God’s desire for a relationship with humanity, one that is based on understanding and love. Jesus, our ultimate high priest, embodies this role perfectly. He knows our pain, our joys, and our trials. His sacrifice is not merely ritualistic; it is deeply personal and transformative. Through His suffering, He becomes the source of eternal salvation for all who obey Him. This truth is at the heart of our faith: Christ, in His humanity, makes a way for us to experience grace and redemption.

In the Gospel, Jesus, in his response to the question on fasting, calls to embrace this newness of life He brings. “No one pours new wine into old wineskins.” What does this mean for us today? Both passages invite us to reflect on our own lives and our relationship with God. Are we clinging to old practices and traditions that no longer serve our spiritual growth? Or are we open to the new ways God is calling us to live? The invitation of Christ is not merely to uphold traditions but to embody a living faith that responds to the world’s needs. Moreover, Jesus emphasises the joy that comes from His presence. Fasting, as He suggests, is not just about abstaining; it’s about cultivating a relationship with God that is alive and dynamic. In our spiritual practices, let us seek to encounter Christ, who fills us with joy and purpose. Let us ask ourselves today: What old garments am I clinging to? What new wine is God pouring into my life? How can I embrace change in my spiritual journey, allowing Christ to reshape my heart and my actions?

Response: You are a priest forever, in the line of Melchizedek.

January 18, 2025January 18, 2025

19th JANUARY 2025

Desire of Ages Ch 15 - At the Marriage Feast - Jesus First Miracle - Water To Wine - Wedding - Faith - YouTube

SUNDAY, SECOND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Is 62:1-5 Ps 96:1-3,7-10 1 Cor 12:4-11 Jn 2:1-11

TURN TO GOD

God is our eternal companion and ever-present Immanuel. To truly embrace this reality, we must seek Him, turning to Him in every season of life. Our lives are inevitably woven with threads of challenge and uncertainty. No one is exempt from the storms that life brings. These trials, like shadows, follow us wherever we go. Yet, we are not destined to be consumed by them. Instead, we are called to navigate these turbulent waters with courage and faith. Seeking solace in counseling, spiritual guidance, and most importantly, in prayer can provide the strength and clarity we need. Prayer is not merely a passive act; it is an active engagement with the Divine. By pouring out our hearts to God, we invite Him to work within us and through us. With His grace as our compass, we can journey through life’s challenges with hope and confidence.

In the first reading, God’s unwavering love for His people shines through as He pledges protection and salvation. The promise of redemption rings clear: “No more shall people call you ‘Forsaken’…” The imagery of bride and bridegroom evokes the depth of God’s love and commitment. It paints a picture of a profound, intimate relationship between the Divine and humanity. This powerful metaphor underscores the lengths to which God will go to nurture and sustain His people.

In the second reading, St. Paul illuminates God’s boundless generosity, bestowing upon us a diverse array of gifts and talents. These gifts are not merely for personal adornment, but are intended to equip us for service and to bear abundant fruit. We are called to rise to the occasion, to step out of our comfort zones, and to actively participate in the life of the Church and the world. It is imperative that we recognize and appreciate the unique gifts of others, fostering an environment of collaboration and mutual support. By working together in harmony, we can create a vibrant and dynamic community. Yet, underlying all our endeavors is the steadfast love of God, who unfailingly provides for our every need.

In today’s Gospel, we witness Mary’s faith and trust in action. At the wedding feast in Cana, she recognized a need and turned to Jesus. Her simple request sparked a miraculous transformation, turning water into wine. This event symbolizes the abundance of joy and grace that God pours out upon us when we turn to Him in faith. Life’s uncertainties can often cast a shadow over our hearts. However, by turning to God, we can dispel darkness and embrace the light of His love. When we entrust our worries and anxieties to Him, we experience a profound sense of peace and joy. Just as the wedding guests rejoiced at the miraculous wine, so too can we find joy in the midst of our challenges. As Christians, we are called to be people of joy, radiating the love and hope of Christ. Through His death and resurrection, He has conquered sin and death, offering us eternal life. By turning to God in every circumstance, we can experience the fullness of life and find true happiness.

St. Teresa of Avila often spoke of God’s providential care. She exemplified this trust in a remarkable incident. When the community faced a severe shortage of food, the sister in charge was understandably distressed. However, Saint Teresa, with unwavering faith, assured her, “Don’t worry, God will provide.” She instructed the sister to ring the bell as usual, signaling the time for the meal. As the community gathered in the refectory, they found empty tables. Yet, Teresa began the grace, her faith undeterred. Just as the prayer concluded, the doorbell rang. A visitor arrived, bearing a bountiful supply of food that would sustain the community for the entire week. This miraculous event underscored the power of turning to God in times of need. In the Lord’s Prayer, we petition, “Give us this day our daily bread.” This simple request encapsulates our reliance on God’s provision for our material and spiritual needs. It is a reminder to turn to Him each day, acknowledging our dependence on His grace. Let us strive to cultivate a deeper relationship with God, turning to Him in every circumstance. By doing so, we open ourselves to the countless blessings He has in store for us.

Response: Tell among all the peoples the wonders of the Lord.

January 17, 2025January 18, 2025

18th JANUARY 2025

Reflection on Hebrews 4:12-16 | New Life Narrabri

SATURDAY, FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Heb 4: 12-16 Ps 19: 8-10, 15 Mk 2: 13-17

THE TRANSFORMING WORD

The author of Hebrews paints a vivid picture of God’s Word as a dynamic, life-giving force (4:12). This Word is not merely a collection of static truths but a living, active agent that penetrates the depths of the human soul. It discerns thoughts and intentions, exposing the hidden areas of our hearts that need healing and transformation. Like a surgeon’s scalpel, God’s Word cuts through deception and falsehood, revealing the truth with precision. However, we are urged not to retreat in fear; rather, a gracious invitation is extended to us to approach the throne of grace with boldness. This bold approach is rooted in the understanding that Jesus, our compassionate High Priest, has experienced the full range of human suffering and temptation. He is an empathetic friend who understands our struggles. This assurance empowers us to come before God, confident that we will be met with mercy and grace.

Faith and trust are essential components of this approach. As we bring our burdens, doubts, and fears to God, we must do so with unwavering faith, trusting in His goodness and love. This act of faith is a deep, personal encounter with the divine. It is through this encounter that we experience spiritual growth, renewal, and a deeper understanding of God’s mercy. The Word of God calls for a faith response that is both from the heart and the mind. As we delve into Scripture, we are invited to use our minds to discern truth and apply it to our lives. At the same time, we must approach the Word with a heart open to God’s Spirit, allowing it to transform us from the inside out. Our faith response should be an informed trust in the One who has revealed Himself through Scripture and the person of Jesus Christ. Let us therefore approach the Lord with confidence, trusting in His mercy and understanding. For, in Him, we find not only a compassionate High Priest but also the living Word that transforms and renews our lives.

Response: Your words, O Lord, are spirit and life.

January 16, 2025January 16, 2025

17th JANUARY 2025

No photo description available.

FRIDAY, FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Memorial of Saint Anthony, Abbot

Heb 4: 1-5, 11 Ps 78: 3-4, 6-8 Mk 2: 1-12

YOUR SINS ARE FORGIVEN

Today’s gospel passage serves as a reminder of the profound need for inner healing. It is not merely a physical ailment we seek to remedy, but a spiritual restoration that transcends the material. The Divine Physician, our Creator, desires to heal the core of our being, the very essence of our souls. In the Old Testament era, sacrifices were offered as a tangible expression of repentance. Yet the New Covenant ushered in a more profound and personal form of atonement, in the form of Jesus Christ, who has taken away the weight of our sins. By acknowledging our shortcomings and seeking forgiveness, we invite the Holy Spirit to cleanse and renew our hearts.

The Gospel presents us with a stark choice: the narrow gate leading to eternal life or the wide gate leading to destruction. The path to salvation is demanding, requiring self-denial and perseverance. By choosing the narrow gate, we embrace a life of holiness and divine grace. The image of the paralytic, being lowered through the roof towards his Saviour symbolizes this journey through the narrow gate towards salvation.

God is greater than our problems, so we must not be too concerned about physical healing. Rather, He desires that we open ourselves for inner healing in order that our soul can reflect His light in all its glory. Ultimately, our true worth lies not in our physical appearance or worldly possessions but in the purity of our souls. God desires to transform us from within, to make us radiant with His divine light. As we surrender our hearts to Him, we experience a profound peace that surpasses all understanding. Let us heed the call of the gospel and embark on a journey of inner healing. By confessing our sins, seeking forgiveness, and striving for holiness, we can attain the eternal life that God has promised. May we choose the narrow gate, the path of righteousness, and experience the fullness of God’s love and grace.

Response: Never forget the deeds of God!