SPRINGS OF LIVING WATER

February 10, 2025February 10, 2025

11th FEBRUARY 2025

Genesis 1:25 - "And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good."

TUESDAY, FIFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Memorial of Our Lady of Lourdes

Gn 1: 20–2:4 Ps 8: 4-9 Mk 7: 1-13

THE BEST ARGUMENT FOR GOD’S EXISTENCE!

We live in a world of immense beauty. The entire creation is finely tuned in such an intricate manner that contemplating the way everything works around us posits that the world is not a product of accidents; rather, it was ordained to work this way, and hence was created by someone much greater than itself. This is one of the best refutations against those who argue against the existence of God – the argument from design that says that behind this complex but ordered world, there is the Great Designer who has fine-tuned everything.

The first reading is not a scientific explanation of how God created the world. However, written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the author considers how God created the world gradually for days before creating His masterpiece, humankind. Hence, while He was satisfied with what He created and said that it was ‘good’, God was extremely pleased in creating humankind, calling it ‘very good.’ This shows that humankind is the pearl of God’s creation. In forming humankind in His own image and likeness God brought forth something that was way better than the fine-tuned universe. As St. Irenaeus said, “The glory of God is man fully alive.”

Reflecting on the profound generosity of God in creating humankind in His own image and likeness invites a deeper understanding of our existence. He bestows upon us a spiritual soul, calls us to eternal life, and offers salvation through His Son. This divine act of creation is not merely a philosophical concept; it is a transformative truth that can inspire belief. Rather than engaging in debates about the fine-tuning of the universe to counter those who deny God’s existence, we might consider a more compelling approach. By inviting individuals to ponder the mystery of their own creation as human beings we open a pathway to faith.

Response: O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name through all the earth!

February 9, 2025February 9, 2025

10th FEBRUARY 2025

Genesis 1:1–19 (ESV) - Genesis 1:1–19 ESV - In the beginning, God… | Biblia

MONDAY, FIFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Memorial of Saint Scholastica

Gn 1: 1-19 Ps 104: 1-2,5-6,10-12,24,35 Mk 6: 53-56

CREATED GOOD!

The first reading presents a narrative of creation, where God meticulously brings the universe into existence over six days. Each act of creation is marked by the declaration of its goodness, culminating in the creation of light, sky, land, and living creatures. This passage emphasises the intentionality and sovereignty of God, who not only creates but also imbues creation with inherent value and purpose. The refrain, “And God saw that it was good,” serves as a reminder of the beauty and order within the created world.

The theological implications of this creation narrative invite believers to recognise the divine order and beauty that reflect God’s nature. As Pope Francis notes, creation is a “magnificent book in which God speaks to us.” This perspective is found in the teachings of St. Scholastica as well, who emphasised the importance of understanding God through creation and the pursuit of wisdom. St. Scholastica, was the twin sister of St. Benedict, and, like him, she dedicated her life to prayer and reflection. She teaches us to appreciate the beauty of creation as a means to draw closer to God. Her commitment to a contemplative life encourages believers to seek God in the natural world, recognising that creation is not merely a backdrop but a vital part of our relationship with the Creator.

In the gospel, we witness Jesus performing miracles of healing as He travels through the land of Gennesaret. These acts of healing are not merely physical restorations but a re-establishment of the created order disrupted by sin and suffering. Jesus’ compassion and power to heal echo the goodness of creation articulated in the first reading, where God’s creative acts are characterized by intention and care. Through contemplation and action, we are called to participate in the ongoing work of creation and healing, reflecting the love and order established by God from the very beginning.

Response: May the Lord rejoice in his works!

February 8, 2025February 7, 2025

9th FEBRUARY 2025

Bible Helps: Children's Sermon on Luke 5:1-11 – The Miraculous Catch of Fish

SUNDAY, FIFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Is 6: 1-8 Ps 138: 1-5, 7-8 1 Cor 15: 1-11 Lk 5: 1-11

CALLED TO BE FISHERS OF MEN

In the first reading, we are presented with the story of the call of Isaiah, who experiences a transformative vision in the temple. As he listens to the chanting of the temple choir and witnesses the sanctuary filled with smoke, he sees the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted. This majestic and holy presence awakens in him a deep awareness of his own unworthiness and sinfulness, leading to a realization of his nothingness before God. Isaiah’s encounter illustrates that those who recognize their need for cleansing are precisely the ones God can work with.

Isaiah’s experience of forgiveness and healing in the temple led him to fulfill his divine calling to urge the people to repent. His message, “Though your sins are red as scarlet, they shall be white as snow,” (1:18) encapsulates the transformative power of God’s mercy. The surrender of one’s life to the Lord is a profound response to His invitation: “Whom shall I send?” Having encountered the boundless love and forgiveness of God, Isaiah’s immediate response is one of unconditional surrender: “Here I am, send me.” He was tasked with delivering a message of repentance to a people who would largely reject him, yet his mission remained crucial. We are all called like Isaiah, as Paul reminds us in Ephesians 1:3-4: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who chose you in him before the foundation of the world.” This divine call was first made at our baptism, which commissions us to proclaim the “good news.” (cf. Mt 28:18-19) However, this calling comes with a challenge: are we prepared to face ridicule and rejection, sacrificing everything for the sake of the Kingdom? While we may not all be prophets like Isaiah, we each have the potential to make a meaningful difference in society.

In the Gospel we find a multitude of people pressing around Jesus, eager to see Him, touch Him, and listen to His words. This overwhelming crowd was drawn to Him because His teachings were imbued with love, offering comfort and healing to those in need. Their deep hunger for God’s word reflects a spiritual desire that resonates within each of us. In our own lives, we must cultivate an appetite for the word of God, allowing it to nourish, strengthen, cleanse, and transform us. The power of God’s word is not merely in its ability to inform but in its capacity to heal and restore our souls.

In Luke 5:4, Jesus instructs Simon to “let down your nets for a catch,” a directive that might seem peculiar coming from a carpenter to a seasoned fisherman. Simon, who had dedicated his life to fishing and understood the sea intimately, faced a choice: obey this carpenter or dismiss His suggestion as foolish. This moment brings to the fore a common tendency among us to rely solely on our own abilities and understanding. However, true discipleship requires us to surrender our preconceived notions and allow the Lord to guide us. Simon’s act of obedience resulted in an astonishing catch of fish, demonstrating that with obedience comes abundant blessings. The awe and wonder experienced by Simon and his companions serve as a testament to the grace God bestows upon those who trust in Him. We are reminded of that famous hymn Amazing Grace: “Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me.”

As we deepen our relationship with the Lord, we come to recognize the incredible nature of His call in our lives. Just as Simon Peter experienced the miraculous catch of fish and left everything to follow Jesus, we too are invited to respond to His call – whether that means serving in our parishes, engaging in social service, or joining other associations. The question we must ask ourselves is: Are we ready to embrace this calling, even if it involves sacrifice and the potential for ridicule or rejection? While we may not all be called to the same level of discipleship as Isaiah, Paul, or Simon, each of us has the opportunity to make a significant impact in our communities. If we respond positively to Jesus’ invitation, we can become “fishers of men,” experiencing blessings that overflow beyond our imagination.

Response: In the presence of the angels I praise you, O Lord.

February 7, 2025February 7, 2025

8th FEBRUARY 2025

7 Beautiful Images of Jesus Christ as The Good Shepherd | LDS Daily

SATURDAY, FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Heb 13: 15-17, 20-21 Ps 23: 1-6 Mk 6: 30-34

JESUS, THE SHEPHERD-PRIEST

The first reading from the letter to the Hebrews speaks of the priesthood of Jesus. As the perfect High Priest, He offered the perfect sacrifice of Himself for the atonement of our sins and opened the way for us to approach God directly through Him. Reconciled to God, we are now asked to make the priesthood of Christ our own. Living the priesthood is to offer the sacrifice of praise. We are called to praise God, acknowledging Him as our Lord and Saviour. However, a sacrifice of praise is given to God even when He does not act according to our will. We are called to praise God not just in good times but also in bad times. Sometimes, we cannot see where God is leading us, but we are called to trust Him.

There are times when we need to go beyond our duty. We are called to help even when we are exhausted and need to rest. The same was with Jesus and the disciples. Our Lord spent most of His time and effort caring for all the people who had come looking for Him, reaching out to them, and showing them His mercy and kindness. He saw all of them like sheep who were without a shepherd and guide. Thus, He Himself took up their role as the shepherd of all the people of God.

Yet. Jesus was not just a shepherd but a priest who sacrificed Himself, His rest, and His time to be with the people. He took pity on them because they were hungry physically and spiritually. The responsorial psalm of the day reaffirms this theme of Jesus as the Shepherd-Priest. “The Lord is my shepherd: there is nothing I shall want” says the psalmist. In the first two stanzas highlight the qualities of the Good Shepherd – he gives rest, nourishment, protection and comfort. In the following couple of stanzas, the focus is on Jesus the High Priest who anoints the faithful with the oil of salvation. May the words of the psalmist reign in our hearts as we embrace Jesus as our Shepherd and Priest.

Response: The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

February 6, 2025February 6, 2025

7th FEBRUARY 2025

8 Ways Your Faithfulness is Evaluated - LetterPile

FRIDAY, FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Memorial of Saint Gonsalo Garcia

Heb 13: 1-8 Ps 27: 1,3, 5, 8-9 Mk 6: 14-29

ARE WE FAITHFUL?

The author of the letter to the Hebrews speaks of marriage and urges to keep it pure. In the Gospel passage of today, we find that this pure relationship of marriage is defiled by King Herod who divorces his first wife and then seduces the wife of his half-brother, Herodias, eventually marrying her. It is very sad that when John the Baptist confronts Herod, he is imprisoned; and by Herodias’ scheming, he is beheaded. An innocent man of God is executed for someone else’s immoral act.

With this background, it is fitting that we need to go into a deeper meaning of the word ‘marriage’. It is often used in the Bible as an imagery or a metaphor to define the relationship with God. In Isaiah 54:3 Yahweh declares, “For your husband is your maker, whose name is the Lord of hosts; and your redeemer is the Holy One of Israel, who is called the God of all the earth.” What a privilege to be the spouse of the creator of the world! But what is Israel’s response to this marriage covenantal relationship?? We find it in Ezekiel 16:32-34: “You adulteress wife, who takes strangers instead of her husband! Men give gifts to all harlots, but you give your gifts to all your lovers to bribe them to come to you from every direction for your harlotries. Thus, you are different from those women in your harlotries, in that no one plays the harlot as you do, because you give money and no money is given you; thus, you are different.”

In the New Testament, Christ is the Bridegroom, and the Church is the bride. What a privilege that the Bridegroom dies for his bride in order to save her. The message of the Scriptures is that God is inviting us into the Trinitarian relationship that the Father, Son and Spirit share, and reminds of our responsibility to respond to His invitation; first, as an individual, and then as a faith community, i.e., the Church. God loves us and He is faithful. The question remains: Are we?

Response: The Lord is my light and salvation.

February 4, 2025February 4, 2025

5th FEBRUARY 2025

08-13-17 - "Divine Discipline: A Blessed Exchange" (Hebrews 12:1-7)

WEDNESDAY, FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Memorial of Saint Agatha

Heb 12: 4-7, 11-15 Ps 103: 1-2, 13-14, 17-18 Mk 6: 1-6

DIVINE DISCIPLINE

In the first reading, the author invites us to reflect on the nature of divine discipline and the importance of perseverance in faith. He emphasizes that enduring trials is a vital part of the Christian journey, as God disciplines those He loves, akin to a father correcting his children. This loving correction is not meant to harm but to guide those who believe in Him toward righteousness and peace, reminding them that “whom the Lord loves, he chastises.”

St. Agatha, a third-century martyr, whose feast we celebrate today, embodies the virtues of endurance and steadfastness in the face of suffering. Her life exemplifies the very essence of the message in Hebrews. Agatha faced severe persecution and torture for her unwavering faith, yet she remained resolute, demonstrating the spirit of perseverance that the first reading encourages. Her trials were opportunities for her to deepen her relationship with God and to witness to her faith, even unto death. In her suffering, she found strength and grace. Like St. Agatha, we are urged to view these difficulties as opportunities for growth. The discipline mentioned in the first reading can be seen in the struggles that refine character and deepen one’s relationship with God. Embracing trials with courage, as St. Agatha did, allows believers to transform suffering into a profound witness of faith.

The gospel presents Jesus as an example of this courage in the face of difficulties. The people of Nazareth, astonished by his teachings and miracles, ultimately take offense at him, unable to reconcile their familiarity with Jesus as a carpenter with his newfound authority and wisdom. However, this rejection did not deter him in his mission. Similarly, Agatha’s steadfastness has made her a symbol of courage and faithfulness for everyone who answers the call of discipleship.

Response: The mercy of the Lord is everlasting upon those who hold him in fear.

February 3, 2025February 3, 2025

4th FEBRUARY 2025

Jesus Raises Jairus's Daughter Power Over Death Luke 8 A Reflection : r/Christianity

TUESDAY, FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Memorial of Saint John Britto

Heb 12: 1-4 Ps 22: 26-28, 30-32 Mk 5: 21-43

FAITH FOUNDED ON A RELATIONSHIP OF LOVE

Faith is an essential part of the human experience, whether it is faith in a person or the tools he/she has created. Without some level of faith, it would be impossible to live. How would one travel without faith in the modes of transport and those who drive them? How would one be cured of any kind of illness, if there is a lack of faith in the doctor and the medicines he prescribes? Thus, some measure of faith is inevitable in every human life. However, when faith is built on love, then it moves on to a higher plane. Here, faith is truly understood and experienced in its fullest sense. Children have faith in their parents because they know that the parents love them. Turning to the spiritual life, we have faith in God because we know that He loves us and desires our salvation.

The readings speak about the human response in faith to God’s invitation to a relationship of love. The first reading exhorts us to take as our model of faith Jesus, who even embraced suffering and death trusting in the Father’s love for him. It further places before us the example of the multitude of Christians who, with unwavering faith, suffered persecution, and now enjoy heavenly glory. The Gospel narrates two separate incidents that demonstrate the power of faith in bringing about healing and salvation – the healing of the woman suffering from a hemorrhage, and the raising of Jairus’ daughter to life. “Woman, your faith has made you well.” “Do not be afraid; only have faith.”

Let us ask ourselves today: What is the measure of my faith in the Lord? Is it founded on a deep love for the Lord? Can I without fear profess my complete confidence in His love for me even in times of struggle and suffering, and submit myself to His will at all times in obedience? Let our prayer always be that of the Virgin Mother: “I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to Your word.”

Response: They will praise you, Lord, who seek you.

February 2, 2025February 2, 2025

3rd FEBRUARY 2025

Jesus Heals a Man with a Demon - Gospelimages

MONDAY, FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Heb 11: 32-40 Ps 31: 20-24 Mk 5: 1-20

IN HIM WE FIND FREEDOM

The story of salvation recording in the Scriptures is filled with episodes of God intervening in human affairs through individuals empowered to defeat His enemies and those who oppose His people. The first reading gives us some examples from the Old Testament. However, God sometimes allows His people to endure hardships and persecution; some faced “jeers and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment” (Heb 11:36), to make them examples of faith to the world. Today, we are invited to be strong and take heart in times of struggle, resting our hope in Him, knowing that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” (Rom 8:28).

The Good News of salvation represents God’s decisive intervention in the world through Jesus, the Word made flesh. Through the mystery of the Incarnation, God embraces the whole of creation. The Word takes on our weak flesh to defeat the enemies of humanity. The gospel can be seen in the light of this battle where God conquers the powers of the Evil one. When Jesus proclaims that the Kingdom of God is near, He refers to a new reign initiated by His presence and power.

In every personal encounter the Lord reveals His love and mercy. The Gospel passage begins with Jesus proclaiming the end of the era of Satan. When He invites us to repent, He calls us to turn to Him and live by His spirit of freedom. Humans are not meant to be bound or tormented; Jesus commands evil spirits out of those possessed because we are meant to be temples of the Holy Spirit. Our bondage to sensual pleasure also requires redemption. The story of Jesus restoring a demon-possessed man teaches that true freedom is essential for enjoying life in God. Once liberated, we are called to be authentic apostles, proclaiming that genuine salvation comes only from God.

Response: Be strong, let your heart take courage, all who hope in the Lord.

February 1, 2025February 2, 2025

2nd FEBRUARY 2025

Simeon and Anna's Lifestyle Is What Is Needed to Battle End Time Demons - HubPages

SUNDAY, FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD

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

HYPAPANTE – FEA ST OF ENCOUNTER!

Today is the feast of the Presentation of the Lord. How amazingly the great prophesies of the past get fulfilled when Mary and Joseph, in humble obedience to Mosaic Law presented the Child Jesus in Jerusalem temple! Malachi lived almost 500 years before Christ. During his time the temple priests conducted the worship in an unworthy manner, disregarding the norms laid down by Moses. People too were mediocre and were stingy in their offerings to God. During this time, God in his disappointment makes the prophecy that he himself would send his messenger before him to prepare the way and the Lord would suddenly appear in the temple. Jesus is that prophesied ‘divine messenger’. He himself is the message or Good News of salvation. He appears suddenly in the temple not in his kingly attire or messianic glory, but in the form of a child.

Jesus Christ: The author of Letter to the Hebrews rightly highlights the significance of the human form in which Jesus appears. Because of his incarnation, he is able to sympathise with us in our daily trials and temptations. We have a merciful and faithful high priest in Jesus. St Thomas Aquinas wrote, “the Son of God became man, and was circumcised in the flesh, not for His own sake, but that we might be circumcised in spirit. Likewise, behind the act of presentation by his parents Jesus presents himself to God, his Father. Now he presents himself in the temple; after his death and resurrection he himself will become the living temple! In the Greek Church today’s feast is called Hypapante (Meeting), in reference to Jesus’ meeting in the temple with the aged Simeon and the prophet Anna. We not only meet Jesus in the temple but in and through Jesus we meet our God, for he is the Way!

One of the traditional names given to today’s feast is “Candlemas,” denoting the blessing of candles and the candlelit procession that surrounds this feast. Pope Benedict XVI once said, “The theme of Christ the Light, which has characterized the series of Christmas feasts and culminated in the Feast of the Epiphany, is taken up and extended to the celebration today.”

Simeon and Anna: What candid lessons we can learn from Simeon and Anna. Their faith was nourished by the word of God. The word of God gave them hope of seeing the Messiah. Their life was centered around the temple where they served the Lord selflessly and untiringly. In Jesus their faith, hope, love and service was rewarded. They invite us to persevere courageously and zealously in our Christian vocation.

Mary and Joseph: Mary had no need of any ritual purification. ‘Mother all-pure’ is what we say during the litany. She is the personification of purity. Yet with Joseph she does what the Law commands her to do. Mary and Joseph shine before us as models of humility and obedience. They invite all the Christian couple and parents to emulate them and with true Christian fidelity fulfill God’s will.

It was Pope St John Paul II, in 1997 who decreed that ‘the Day of Consecrated Life’ be celebrated in conjunction with this liturgical feast. Thereby the Church tried to promote the knowledge and appreciation of consecrated life among the faithful and that those who are called to consecrated life celebrate the marvels God has worked in their feeble life as did in Mary and Joseph, Simeon and Anna.

‘Malachi’ the prophet from whom today’s reading is taken means ‘messenger’. In the light of todays great feast of the presentation let us renew our Baptism that we ourselves become the messengers and ‘light-bearers’ of Christ the ‘Messenger’ and ‘the Light’. Let us beseech the Lord who is our merciful sympathizer and high priest to grant us the virtue of “Hope’ and Christian ‘perseverance’ that was truly rewarded in Simeon and Anna. Like Mary and Joseph, today we don’t require to offer Jesus in the temple. Instead, we need to offer ourselves continually to Jesus, especially in the Eucharist and thus stive to live lives of holiness and service, keenly doing God’s will. St Thomas Aquinas rightly says, “For our sake He was presented to the Lord that we may learn to offer ourselves to God.”

Response: The Lord of hosts, he is the King of Glory

January 31, 2025January 31, 2025

1st FEBRUARY 2025

Hebrews 11:1 - Bible Verse Design — Scripture Type

SATURDAY, THIRD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Heb 11: 1-2, 8-19 Lk 1: 69-75 Mk 4: 35-41

FAITH OVERCOMES EVERY FEAR

Fear is perhaps the most prevalent of all unpleasant emotions, an experience that no one wishes to endure. It diminishes our capacity for rational thought, making it difficult to act in ways that align with our true values and beliefs. However, the liturgy today reminds us that our faith in God has the potential to conquer every form of fear; it acts as a guiding light, helping us navigate through darkness and uncertainty.

Abraham, the father of faith, exemplifies a life defined by unwavering trust in God. His journey began when God called him to leave his homeland and venture into an unknown nation among unfamiliar people. By this act of obedience, Abraham was not merely following a command; he was responding to a divine promise that he would become the progenitor of a great nation and a source of blessing for many. Abraham’s faith was further tested when God commanded him to sacrifice his only son, Isaac, on Mount Moriah. This challenge revealed the depth of Abraham’s trust in God; he believed that even if he were to carry out this heartbreaking act, God had the power to resurrect Isaac (Gen 22). As he journeyed to the altar, Abraham’s faith remained steadfast, demonstrating that he would not allow fear to overshadow his commitment to God. He reassured his servants, stating, “We will worship and then come back to you,” indicating his firm belief in God’s promise (Gen 22:5).

Sarah, too, played a crucial role in this narrative of faith. Despite being well beyond childbearing age, she believed in God’s promise that she would bear a son. Her faith overcame her fears and doubts, leading to the miraculous birth of Isaac. This shared journey of faith between Abraham and Sarah highlights the strength found in trusting God’s promises against all odds. Their example stands as a testimony, where there is faith, there is no fear, for faith overcomes every fear.

Response: Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited his people.