regan.ocd – Page 2 – SPRINGS OF LIVING WATER

September 26, 2024September 26, 2024

27th SEPTEMBER 2024

A heartfelt witness - Friday, 25th week in ordinary time - Lk 9:18-22

FRIDAY, TWENTY FIFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Memorial of Saint Vincent de Paul

Eccl 3: 1-11 Ps 144: 1-4 Lk 9: 18-22

WHO IS JESUS TO ME?

Down the times, Jesus of Nazareth has been a hot topic of discussion at all levels. At one end there are those who admire his life and are ecstatic about his teaching, whereas at the other end there are those who cannot digest his words and hate him. Strangely nobody who knows his life can remain indifferent to him.

Jesus asks a very personal question: “who do you say that I am”? Jesus knew he was the Son of God (Mt 3:17; 17:5). He knew who he was. He knew his mission of proclaiming the Good News (Lk 4:18). Jesus did not ask this question because he faced some kind of identity crisis. These questions were asked so that the audience might come to know the one who is asking the question. In fact the response of his close disciples is ambiguous. They had lots to say about what others thought of him. But when the question was put straight to each one’s conscience they were silent. Only Peter responds with the basic faith formula affirming the saving role of Jesus, ‘You are the Messiah’.

In the first reading, we are made aware of the limitations and futility of our efforts for our own well being and happiness. Everything has a time fixed by God, beyond the total control of mankind. Everything functions within God’s master plan. It lowers human pride and the desire to amass wealth or dominate others leading to enmity and inequality.

The mission and message of Jesus therefore is to lead humanity, that keeps rebelling against God’s law, to enter once again willingly into the Kingdom of God, into the control of God, into the rule of God in their life as it is done in the life of Jesus, Mary and the saints. Hence, we are invited to humbly affirm true faith in Jesus as our Divine saviour and not merely a supplier of some earthly needs and emotional comforts.

Response: Blest be the Lord, my rock.

September 25, 2024September 25, 2024

26th SEPTEMBER 2024

Saturday, 17th Week in Ordinary Time August 3, 2024 - Institute of Charity

THURSDAY, TWENTY FIFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Eccl 1: 2-11 Ps 90: 3-6, 12-14, 17 Lk 9: 7-9

AND HE SOUGHT TO SEE HIM

In all the Gospels we read and heard, that many religious leaders, common people, as well as citizens of other nations came to see Jesus. All of them had their own desires and intentions to seek Him, some to get healed, some to know about the kingdom of God, some to have clarity on the Law and its regulations, and some to fill their stomach and fulfil their personal intentions. But only a few of them were blessed by the Lord, because they genuinely came to seek Jesus, as the only Son of God, God Himself. Then what about the others?

There were like, Herod the Tetrarch, who just desired to see a person who was known for His performance. Being Christians, we often try to seek Jesus, like the Herod, just for our sense gratification. We follow the crowd, which always seeks, not the Living Lord but the Giving Lord. This means, a lack of desire to make Jesus as my priority and to seek only the miracles in my life. Being entitled as a Baptized Christian (Catholic), how are we really imitating Jesus Christ our Saviour? Attending Sunday mass as an obligation, does it make me a really true Christian? Or by attending all the devotions and novenas, do I become a true follower of Christ?

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me (Jn 15:4). The early church always practised the teachings of Jesus and His apostles, and remained close to the Most Holy Eucharistic Celebration, and then they tried to imitate Jesus with all their heart. Though they too were busy in this world of business, their true Love for their God was of first and utmost priority. Today who is my priority? Do I seek a Living God or a giving god? Being a true Christian, my attitude should not be like Herod’s but rather, like that true and genuine believer of Christ.

Response: O Lord, you have been our refuge, from generation to generation.

September 24, 2024September 24, 2024

25th SEPTEMBER 2024

Spiritual and Physical Healing. Luke Chapter 5 | by kipakcho | Medium

WEDNESDAY, TWENTY FIFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Prv 30:5-9 Ps 119:29,72,89,101,104,163 Lk 9:1-6

THE CONFIDENCE IN GOD’S LOVE

“Tell me what your priorities in everyday life are, and I will tell you the status of your life.” We humans live by priorities, and our priorities are those which we think to be the most important for our everyday success story. And based on these priorities we make the choices of things in life. However, for us Christians, the priorities of life are supposed to be totally different. Since God alone is the surety of our life, we are to be preoccupied in His mission alone. Jesus himself had promised that every labourer deserves his wages and God will give them their daily bread. That is the reason, Jesus tells his disciples, “Take nothing for your journey; neither staff, nor scrip, nor bread nor money” All will be provided when needed by their providential God.

When a disciple of Jesus begins to live a life based on the providence of God one more great miracle begins to happen in their life. He/she begins to live a life of total integrity and authenticity, with no vanity and falsehood. Hence the first reading tells us that a true believer in the Lord knows the power of God and the worth of living in His abundance of blessings. What makes us to be so confident in God that He will provide us with whatever we need? It is our utter trust in His love that comes from our intimacy with Him in prayer. Therefore, all the mystics of the Catholic Church especially Saints John of the Cross and Teresa of Avila propose detachment as a primary requirement in our spiritual pursuit. It is our total distaste for earthly things and our complete belonging to God, that can make us to come to the experience of this confidence.

Saint Therese, would put it more succinctly when she says, “for it is the confidence, and nothing but confidence, which will open the arms of Jesus to you so that He will bear you up. Confidence will be for you the golden key to His Heart.” Can we vouch for God to live a life with total confidence in Him alone?

Response: You word is lamp for my feet, Lord.

September 23, 2024September 23, 2024

24th SEPTEMBER 2024

Gospel Reflection - Lk 8:19-21 | The extended family of Jesus | Tuesday, week 25 in Ordinary Time

TUESDAY, TWENTY FIFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Prv 21:1-6,10-13 Ps 119:1,27,30,34-35,44 Lk 8:19-21

IS GOD PLEASED WITH YOU?

All of us desire to be accepted, appreciated and praised. We wish that others praise us for being wise and faithful. If this is a reality in our ordinary life, even in our spiritual life this is what we hear being said about those who obey God and do his will. God is pleased when people work for justice and do what is right (Prv 21:3). This is the invitation Jesus extends to us so that we become members of divine family.

In the Beatitudes, when Jesus uses the word ‘Blessed’ it is about God being well pleased. There are different ways in Jesus’ teaching we can please God. In all these ways, one needs to go through inconveniences, sacrifices and risk one’s own life. Sharing God’s nature and glory necessarily involves the process of aligning one’s will to God’s will.

Being part of the family of Jesus doesn’t depend on blood relationship with him but on recognising that he comes from God and doing God’s will. Belonging to the new family of Jesus is joining him in the business of incarnating, making real in flesh and blood, God’s deep love and mercy for all his people. We truly belong to Jesus whenever we follow his teaching.

Jesus also promised to come with his heavenly Father and dwell in us when we follow his commandment of love (ref. Jn 14:23). The sacrificial love Jesus is inviting us to be part of, is to trust God’s plan for each of us. The Good News of Salvation is not just hearing the news that is sweet and pleasing to us, but embracing the challenges to die to selfishness and surrender to God’s plan to make us partners with Jesus to make humanity God’s new family. Failure to live according to the God’s word, leads to a warning: “every one who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish person…” (Mt 7:26-27). So, the only way to be wise and faithful before God is to live the commandment of love.

Response: Guide me, Lord, in the path of your commands.

September 22, 2024September 22, 2024

23rd SEPTEMBER 2024

MONDAY, TWENTY FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Memorial of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina

Prv 3: 27-34 Ps 15: 2-5 Lk 8: 16-18

LIVING A VIRTUOUS LIFE

The Book of Proverbs is indeed a treasure trove of wisdom, offering guidance on a wide range of life’s subjects. The first reading today contains five pieces of advice regarding maintaining relationships with a neighbour and four couplets dealing with the relationship with God. The former are valuable lessons for fostering harmony in our interactions with others. The first two emphasize the significance of giving willingly and promptly. Generosity that comes from the heart, without hesitation or reluctance, is not only appreciated but also strengthens the bond between individuals. Conversely, delayed or begrudging giving can strain relationships and create a sense of obligation rather than goodwill.

The four couplets deal directly with one’s relationship with God. If mockery is interpreted as a disregard for or insincerity in religious duties, then it touches upon the idea that faith and devotion should come from the heart, not just as routine or obligation. It is a reminder to approach one’s relationship with the divine with sincerity, respect, and genuine devotion.

It’s worth noting that the themes of generosity, humility, and genuine devotion are not unique to the Book of Proverbs. They resonate throughout the Bible. The Letter of James, for instance, contains passages that echo the wisdom found in Proverbs. James emphasizes the importance of generosity towards those in need, highlighting the Christian virtue of helping others, especially those who are less fortunate. James 4:6 quoting Proverbs 3:34 underscores the idea that God bestows His favour on the humble. This connects the Old Testament wisdom of Proverbs with the New Testament teachings, emphasizing the continuity of moral and spiritual principles across the biblical texts. The key themes of generosity, humility, sincerity, and devotion to God remain central to the Judeo-Christian tradition.

Response: Who shall dwell on your holy mountain, O Lord?

September 21, 2024September 20, 2024

22nd SEPTEMBER 2024

Isn't everyone a child of God?

SUNDAY, TWENTY FIFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Wis 2:12,17-20 Ps 54:3-8 Jas 3:16–4:3 Mk 9:30-37

SUFFERINGS OF THE RIGHTEOUS ONE

Human life on earth is incomplete without suffering. There are sufferings that we are easily able to bear, but there are also sufferings which we find hard to accept and go through. It is then, that we ask the question, ‘Why suffering’? We are fully aware that all of us suffer and there is no one without suffering. The type of suffering we undergo and the intensity of the suffering may differ from person to person, but all of us have some share in human suffering. We also know that suffering is useful in our daily life. If we want to achieve great things or climb the ladder of success, we need to suffer, sacrifice, give up etc. Despite all this, we do ask the same question, ‘why suffering’? Long and intense suffering can also lead to desperation and meaninglessness in one’s life.

The liturgy today gives us the real meaning of suffering and shows a new direction in living our life. The first reading highlights the sufferings of a righteous man. We usually think that the righteous should not suffer and only the unrighteous or sinners should suffer. Contrary to this, we find many examples in the Bible. The enemies of the righteous man mentioned in today’s reading lie in wait to attack him because he is an obstacle to them to fulfil their own selfish plans.

The righteous man opposes their evil designs and actions. When they go against the law, he is there to reproach them and he is a mirror to them in showing their sins. The enemies challenge him and see if he will persevere in his righteous way, and they wait to see his end. The righteous man trusts in God, he is God’s son. God will help him and deliver him from all his adversaries. But his enemies insult him, torture him, and test him if he is patient. He is condemned to a shameful death because he believes that he will be protected.

In the second reading, Saint James explains the causes of human suffering. We suffer from our fallen nature where we see jealousy and selfishness. This leads to disorder and vile practices. God’s wisdom brings about good fruits and there will be no sin. Righteousness brings about peace and harmony. But the reality is that there is war and fighting caused by our inner human and sinful passions. Selfish desires cause murder, war etc. Sin has entered the world causing innumerable sufferings.

In the Gospel, Jesus gives us the full meaning of suffering and the means to face such suffering. He was going through Galilee with His disciples. He then taught them the secret of the kingdom of God. He revealed to them with clarity that He would be delivered into the hands of men, they would kill Him, and after three days He would rise from death.

Was it necessary for Jesus to suffer? Sin has caused suffering and Jesus through His suffering on the Cross has paid the price of our redemption. Jesus told His disciples that suffering was necessary for the Resurrection and to save humanity. Going through the suffering and death on the Cross, Jesus does the will of the Father and offers Himself as the sacrifice for our salvation. The disciples failed to understand the meaning of His teaching; they were busy discussing who will be the greatest among them.

Like the disciples, inspite of the example of Jesus before us, we fail to understand the mystery and the value of suffering. We do also ask the question, ‘Why suffering’? Jesus had to take time to explain many things in private. One who wants to be first must be the last of all and servant of all.

Jesus humbled Himself and thus obtained glory. He showed the disciples, a child and asked them to receive the child in His name. One who becomes the last or servant of all, or one who tries to become like a child will suffer. But, he will not be lost in suffering because he trusts in the Lord. Jesus suffered and died, and then rose from the death. One, who suffers by uniting one’s suffering with the Lord, will also rise with Him. So, our sufferings are meant to prepare us to enter into life, the life of the Resurrection.

Response: Behold, the Lord is the upholder of my life.

September 20, 2024September 20, 2024

21st SEPTEMBER 2024

SATURDAY, TWENTY FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Feast of Saint Matthew, the Evangelist

Eph 4: 1-7, 11-13 Ps 19: 2-5 Mt 9: 9-13

DISCIPLESHIP FOLLOWS MERCY

Today we see Jesus calling Matthew, a tax collector, to follow Him. The reaction of the Pharisees and Jesus’ response to them captures a key element of Jesus’ ministry: the priority of mercy over ritual sacrifice. The passage begins with Jesus’ call to Matthew. This simple yet profound invitation marks the beginning of Matthew’s transformation from a tax collector to a disciple of Christ. The immediacy of Matthew’s response underscores the compelling nature of Jesus’ call, a theme emphasized in the Church’s understanding of vocation.

The Catechism describes a vocation as a call from God to live a life of holiness and service (CCC 542). Matthew’s vocation is particularly striking because it demonstrates that Jesus calls individuals from all walks of life, even those considered sinners or outcasts. This reflects the Church’s teaching that “God does not call the qualified, but qualifies the called.” Matthew’s willingness to leave his profession and follow Jesus symbolizes the transformative power of divine grace.

Following Matthew’s call, Jesus reclines at a meal with many tax collectors and sinners. Pope Francis emphasizes the Church’s mission to reach out to the side-lines, to those marginalized by society. Jesus’ actions in this passage illustrate this mission vividly. He does not merely tolerate sinners; He seeks them out and shares a meal with them, signifying acceptance and reconciliation. This underscores the Church’s call to embody a pastoral approach that orders mercy.

Like Matthew, young people today are invited to respond to Jesus’ call with courage and openness, allowing His love to transform their lives. This call to discipleship is not limited to the young; it extends to all members of the Church, inviting everyone to a deeper relationship with Christ and greater commitment to His mission.

Response: Their sound goes forth through all the earth.

September 19, 2024September 19, 2024

20th SEPTEMBER 2024

Real women power supports Jesus – Éditions Verbum Bible

FRIDAY, TWENTY FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Memorial of Saint Andrew Kim Taegon and Companions

1 Cor 15: 12-20 Ps 17: 1, 6-8, 15 Lk 8: 1-3

EQUALITY IN THE EYES OF THE MASTER

Women in Palestine in the time of Jesus lacked a public role, a public voice, and the freedom to be individuals. Rabbis detested women and considered them to be little more than goods or instruments of seduction. Men must therefore avoid talking to or being seen with women in public and maintain a safe distance from them. They were cornered and kept apart from men in the synagogues so they could stay hidden.

In contrast, Jesus demonstrates an entirely different attitude towards women. To his disciples’ surprise, he addresses them in public. As we see in today’s gospel passage, he does something that no Jewish rabbi would have ever done: he accepts them as disciples. Without a doubt, he would have made them apostles, but he would have had to stop short of that since no one would have agreed to listen to them. After the Resurrection, Christ did however, first appear to women. Jesus obviously believed that women had equal value to men. He chose one to be an Apostle to the apostles.

The women are the main characters in today’s passage. Even while the Twelve are the subject of the majority of the gospel’s highlights, the gospel does contain fragments of information on the Lord’s female disciples. Even if the women did not actively participate in the proclamation of the gospel, their participation cannot be disregarded.

As long as the messenger is in excellent health, the message is fine. Before the mission can begin, its fundamental requirements must be satisfied. Thus, we must pay gratitude to all the unknown women who helped Christ’s mission succeed in any small manner today. In fact, we could argue that they make up the other half of the mission. The disciples would not have been able to proceed if their burden with the practical requirements of carrying out their mission was not fulfilled.

Response: When I awake, O Lord, I shall be filled with the vision of your presence.

September 18, 2024September 18, 2024

19th SEPTEMBER 2024

Forgiven Much Loves Much | Luke 7:36-50 – U of T St.George Bible Fellowship

THURSDAY, TWENTY FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

1 Cor 15: 1-11 Ps 118: 1-2, 16-17, 28 Lk 7: 36-50

EXTRAVAGANT LOVE VS MISERLY LOVE

Why did a rabbi invite him to a nice dinner and then treat him discourteously by neglecting to give him the customary signs of respect and honour? Have you seen people displaying in their homes and offices their photographs alongside a celebrity or a very important person? They are celebrity syndrome people. They like to associate with celebrities as they think that will boost their image and self-worth. Simon was very likely a collector of celebrities. He patronized Jesus because of his popularity with the crowds. He probably wanted to be seen as a friend of Jesus, not for anything but popularity.

Why did he criticize Jesus’ compassionate treatment of a “sinful woman”? Simon wanted to score a point in the eyes of his friends with his association with Jesus. He thought he would be sharing Jesus’ popularity. With what Jesus allowed to happen in his house, Simon thought would be discrediting his value. In all that he did, his intention was purely selfish.

Why did the sinful woman approach Jesus and anoint him at the risk of ridicule and abuse by others? The woman’s action was motivated by one thing, and one thing only, namely, her love for Jesus and her gratitude for forgiveness. She did something a Jewish woman would never do in public. She loosed her hair and anointed Jesus with her tears. It was customary for a woman on her wedding day to bind her hair. For a married woman to loosen her hair in public was a sign of grave immodesty. She was oblivious to all around her, except for Jesus. Her love was not calculated but extravagant. In a spirit of humility and heart-felt repentance, she lavishly served the one who showed her the mercy and kindness of God. The stark contrast of attitudes between Simon and the woman of ill-repute, demonstrate how we can either accept or reject God’s mercy. May the Lord fill our hearts with love and gratitude for the mercy He has shown to us.

Response: Give praise to the Lord, for he is good.

September 17, 2024September 17, 2024

18th SEPTEMBER 2024

"Jesus' View of This Generation" | Luke 7:31-35 | FCCOP | Luke Sermon Series

WEDNESDAY, TWENTY FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

1 Cor 12:31–13:13 Ps 33: 2-5, 12, 22 Lk 7: 31-35

THE GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE

Today’s readings offer a profound opportunity to reflect on love and wisdom. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians presents a beautiful vision of love, urging us to strive for greater gifts and showing us the excellent way of love. Love is patient, kind, and forgiving, not envious, boastful, or proud. It always protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres. As we reflect on our lives, we are forced to confront our shortcomings. Are we patient and kind? Do we avoid envy and self-seeking behaviour? Do we forgive and rejoice in the truth? These questions guide us toward living a life that reflects true love. Paul concludes that faith, hope, and love remain, but the greatest of these is love.

In the Gospel, Jesus addresses the people of his generation, comparing them to children in the marketplace who cannot be pleased. Despite the mighty works of Jesus, the people of his generation refused to believe in Him. The experience of John the Baptist was not anything different. Jesus was rejected because he was too ordinary, a friend of sinners and the outcast of the society; while John was avoided because he was severe and austere. Jesus wanted to be fair with all and not exclude anyone from the kingdom of God, but when others were unfair with him and his works by swinging their moods, he wonders at what went wrong. Are we open to transformation?

True wisdom is justified by its fruits. When we live according to Paul’s principles of love, our lives become testimonies to God’s wisdom. Let us strive to represent this love, making it the guiding principle in our relationships and interactions. Let us be open to Jesus’ wisdom, allowing it to transform us, even when it challenges us. As a result, our lives will become a witness to the power of love and wisdom, and we will make a positive impact on the world around us. May we be guided by love and wisdom, and may we share that love with the world.

Response: Blessed the people the Lord has chosen as his heritage.