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ASCENSION -CYCLE A

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ASCENSION -CYCLE A

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit. “THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.” (John 14:26)

FIRST DAY                                                        Reread last weeks readings.

 

  1. What was a helpful or new thought from the readings or from the homily you heard on Sunday?

 

  1. From what you learned what personal application did you choose to apply to your life this week?

 

SECOND DAY                                  READ ACTS 1:1-11

                                              (“He presented Himself alive to them….”)

  1. What was dealt with before Jesus was taken up to heaven? Acts 1:1

 

  1. How did Jesus instruct the Apostles He had chosen? Acts 1:2

 

  1. After Jesus had suffered what did He show His Apostles and how did He show them? Acts 1:3

 

Personal -How have you been convinced that Jesus is alive today?

 

  1. Why did Jesus tell His disciples not to leave Jerusalem? Acts 1:4

 

  1. What did John baptize with and what would happen in a few days? Acts 1:5

 

  1. What did the Apostles ask Jesus and what did He tell them? Acts 1:6-7

 

  1. What did Jesus tell them they would receive when the Holy Spirit came down on them and what would that make them? Acts 1:8

 

  1. As the Apostles were looking on what happened to Jesus and how did it happen? Acts 1:9

 

  1. As they were looking up who appeared to them and what did they say? Acts 1:10-11

 

  1. How will the Lord come down from heaven and what will happen to the living, the believers in Him?

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

 

Personal – How are you preparing for Jesus’ return?

 

THIRD DAY                              READ EPHESIANS 1:17-23                SECOND READING

                       (“What is the surpassing greatness of His power for us who believe?”)

 

  1. What is Paul asking our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, to give you? Ephesians 1:17

 

  1. What three things does he want your innermost vision, the eyes of your hearts, to know? Ephesians 1:18-19

 

  1. What do your eyes represent, and if your eyes are good what will your body be? Matthew 6:22

 

  1. What is a lamp to our feet and a light for our path? Psalm 119:105

 

  1. What is it like, this immeasurable scope of His power in us who believe? Ephesians 1:19-20

 

  1. Where is Christ seated? Ephesians 1:20-21

 

  1. What has God put beneath Jesus’ feet and what has He made Him over the Church, His body? Ephesians 1:22

 

  1. Who is the head of every man; who is the head of the woman and who is head of Christ? 1 Corinthians 11:3

 

  1. There is one what? Ephesians 4:4

 

  1. How is the body of Christ built up? Ephesians 4:11-12

 

Personal – How have the eyes of your heart been enlightened to the surpassing greatness of His power in you?

 

FOURTH DAY                          READ MATTHEW 28:16-20                                    GOSPEL

(“Teach them to carry out everything I have commanded you.”)

 

  1. Who went to Galilee and for what reason did they go there? Matthew 28:16

 

  1. Who told the disciples where to find Jesus? Matthew 28:1, 7 & 10

 

Personal – How do you see women’s role in God’s plan of salvation according to the above question?

 

  1. When the disciples saw Jesus what did those who had entertained doubts do? Matthew 28:17

 

  1. What did Jesus tell Thomas? John 20:29

 

  1. What did Jesus tell His disciples has been given to Him both in heaven and on earth? Matthew 28:18

 

  1. What did Jesus tell His disciples to make? Matthew 28:19

 

  1. Who did Jesus say are His disciples? John 8:31

 

  1. In whose name were the disciples to baptize? Matthew 28:19

 

  1. What were the disciples to teach? Matthew 28:20

 

  1. Which disciple did Jesus say He would build His Church and entrust to him the keys to the kingdom of heaven? Matthew 16:16-19

 

  1. What did Jesus say He would do and for how long? Matthew 28:20

 

Personal – To whom have you been called to teach what you have learned from God’s Word? Under whose authority have you been in doing this?

 

FIFTH DAY                                 READ PSALM 47:2-3, 6-9

(“God mounts His throne amid shouts of joy;”)

Read and mediate on Psalm 47:2-3, 6-9.

 

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

SIXTH DAY                     READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ACTS 1:1-11

This passage begins with Luke addressing the Roman official called Theophilus. Luke was implying that Jesus’ work continues in Acts through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Acts is called by many the fifth Gospel in that it tells about the lives and events of the new Church. Jesus showed the Apostles after His suffering and death His many wounds. He gave them many convincing proofs that He was alive. He told them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the gift that His Father had promised them.  He told them that they would then receive the Holy Spirit and they would receive power and become His witnesses to the ends of the earth.  He then was taken up before their very eyes and a cloud hid Him from their sight.

Today, He is still among us in the Power that lives within His Church and within you as a member of the community of His disciples.  You have become a Temple of that Power by your Baptism and Confirmation. The Power that split the Red Sea for Moses lives within you. The Power that impregnated Mary with Jesus lives within you.  The Power that baptized Jesus in the Jordan River lives within you.  The Power that raised Jesus from the dead lives within you.  He is alive and He lives in you waiting to be given freely to the hurt, the lost, the sick, the lonely, the captive throughout the ends of the earth.

                                                            EPHESIANS 1:17-23

In this passage St. Paul is praying and giving thanks for the gifts that have been given to the believers.  We today are reminded to thank God for the gifts of wisdom and knowledge that are available to us today.   We grow in wisdom and knowledge through prayer, scripture, sacraments and Catholic Church teaching. This follows an order of discipline and humility.

Our hope for the future is not an ambiguous feeling, on the contrary, it is a complete assurance of victory through the power of the Holy Spirit and in the name of Jesus Christ. We see many on all sides fearing nuclear disaster  and the collapse of morals. We must always remember we belong to the God of the Universe, who raised Jesus Christ from the dead. God’s great power is available to help us today through the Holy Spirit in the community of faith.  Scripture tells us that with God nothing is impossible (Philippians 4:13). Paul tells us in scripture that we do not have to fear anything or anyone because nothing can separate us from God and His love (Romans 8:31-39).

When we talk about the fullness of the Catholic Church, we are talking about Christ filling the Church with gifts and blessings. The Church itself, with Christ at its head, is the full expression of Christ who Himself is the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:19). The image of the body shows the Church’s unity.  We should not attempt to work, serve or worship on our own.  There are no Lone Rangers in the Body of Christ.  Each one of us is involved with all the others as we go about doing God’s work on earth.

                                                            MATTHEW 28:16-20

This feast is a time of joy, a time of consolation, and of course, a time of hope for anyone who is a true believer.

We celebrate the feast day on the strength of His promise to always be with us and the power of His commission to evangelize. We know that earthly death awaits everyone of us, but because of His promise, we also know that it is not the end of us, but rather the beginning. Today’s feast is the reminder of this consoling fact..

I invite you to picture the eleven disciples going to the mountain in Galilee as Jesus had directed them through the women at the tomb (Matthew 28:10). When they saw Him many fell on their knees and worshiped Him, even those who had some doubts. His last words and appearance on earth still ring out with authority and power. He told them that all authority on heaven and earth had been given to Him. He  gave them access to that power when He entrusted to Peter the keys of the kingdom of heaven and the leadership of His Church on earth (Matthew 16:16-19). This authority has been passed down from Peter to the succession of Popes in the Church.

Today, the Church teaches us with that same authority and power to go forth and make disciples of all nations. Jesus told them to baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. He closes by telling His disciples that He would be with them always. He is telling us that same message today, we are to go out and make disciples of all nations and that He would be with us for all ages. Go forth now and do the right thing.

Application

The first reading tells us as the Apostles were looking on, Jesus was lifted up and you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. In the second reading God seated Jesus at His right hand in the heavens and gave Him as head over all things to the Church, and in the Gospel we are all commissioned to make disciples of everyone starting with our own families.

This week let us go to someone in our family, our community or our parish, to pray with them and  proclaim the Good News to them. You might want to ask your pastor how you can help him fulfill the great commission and make disciples of all his parishioners.

SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER ‑ CYCLE A

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SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER ‑ CYCLE A

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit.

“THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.” (JOHN 14:26)

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

 

  1. What was a helpful or new thought from the readings or from the homily you heard on Sunday?

 

  1. From what you learned, what personal application did you choose to apply to your life this week?

 

SECOND DAY             READ ACTS 1:12‑14         FIRST READING

(“Together they devoted themselves to constant prayer.”)

 

  1. Where is the mount called Olivet and what had previously occurred there? Acts 1:1‑2, 12

 

  1. Entering the city, who went to the upstairs room where they were staying?   Acts 1:13

 

  1. To what did they devote themselves? Acts 1:14

 

  1. What do the following scriptures say about prayer?

 

Mark 11:24

Philippians 4:6‑7

Colossians 4:2

1 Timothy 2:8

1 Timothy 4:4‑5

 

Personal ‑ In what ways do you come together to pray with others, how do you pray, and for what do you pray?

 

  1. Who were in the company of the disciples? Acts 1:14

 

  1. When was there another occasion that women were present? Luke 8:1‑3

 

  1. What did Jesus say about his mother and brothers in Luke 8:19‑21?

 

  1. What does not exist among us and for what reason? Galatians 3:24‑28

 

Personal ‑ In what ways have you prayed with Mary, the mother of God, this week? How often do you pray with the men, women and children who are closest to you?

 

THIRD DAY            READ 1 PETER 4:13‑16      SECOND READING

(“When his glory is revealed, you will rejoice exultantly.”)

 

  1. In what are you to rejoice? 1 Peter 4:13

 

  1. How can you share in Christ’s sufferings? 2 Timothy 2:11

 

  1. To what do our sufferings or afflictions lead? Romans 5:3‑5

 

  1. How do we become glorified with Jesus? Romans 8:17, John 12:23‑24

 

  1. What will you do when his glory is revealed? 1 Peter 4:13

 

  1. What are we when we are insulted for Christ’s sake and who in his glory has come to rest on us?   1 Peter 4:14

 

  1. What will be present in us when the Spirit rests on us? Isaiah 11:2

 

  1. What reasons must we see to that none of us suffer? 1 Peter 4:15

 

  1. If anyone suffers for being a Christian, what must he not be, rather, what should he do?   1 Peter 4:16

 

Personal ‑ In what way have you died to your way of doing things in order to bear the name Christian? What does that name mean to you? How have you suffered because of the name, and what has been your attitude?

 

FOURTH DAY             READ JOHN 17:1‑11                GOSPEL

(“I revealed your name to those whom you gave me out of the world.”)

 

  1. What reassuring words had Jesus spoken? John 16:33

 

  1. Where did Jesus look and what did he say? John 17:1

 

  1. What has been given Jesus over all mankind, and what may he do?   John 17:2

 

  1. What is eternal life? John 17:3, 1 John 5:20

 

  1. What did Jesus do on earth and how did he do it? John 17:4

 

  1. Where does the Father give Jesus glory and when did he have this glory?   John 17:5

 

  1. What did he make known and what did those given him keep? John 17:6

 

  1. What do they realize, what was entrusted to them, and what did they have to do?   John 17:7-8

 

  1. How is it known to them that Jesus came from the Father and what did they have to do?   John 17:8

 

  1. For whom does he pray? John 17:9

 

  1. How has he been glorified? John 17:10

 

  1. Where does he say he will no longer be, what does he ask the Father to do, and how is he to do it so that they may be one even as the Father and Son are one?   John 17:11

 

Personal ‑ In what way have you made Jesus’ name known to those he has given to you? List the ways you have come to know Jesus. How has he revealed the way, the truth and the life to you? Meditate on this and share with someone.

 

FIFTH DAY           READ PSALM 27:1, 4, 7‑8

(“…your presence, O Lord, I seek.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 27:1, 4, 7‑8.

 

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

SIXTH DAY         READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ACTS 1:12‑14

The central theme from today’s passage is the absolute need for prayer. In today’s world, the strongest area in our lives must be our prayer time with Jesus Christ. We have seen all through the New Testament that Jesus went off and prayed alone to his Father before he did anything. We are called to do no less than he. Jesus told them not to leave the upper room until his Spirit returned to them. They prepared for the coming event that would change the face of the entire known world in about 25 years by spending the next ten days in solemn prayer.

This time of preparation which we would call a retreat is a time of waiting, praying, and expecting the Holy Spirit’s power and guidance. A difficult decision, or a very hard task should never be attempted without praying first to the Holy Spirit. We need to take the apostles’ example and not rush in and hope everything turns out all right. We need to ask ourselves, how often do we stop and pray before we do anything or even say anything.

These apostles had been with Jesus for three years and had seen many miracles, and yet, they knew that they lacked something. Jesus did not want them to go into the world unprepared. He does not want us to go unprepared either. He has given us his Holy Spirit who will never leave us. His power will be what we will use to resist Satan and make Satan flee (James 4:7).

                        1 PETER 4:13‑16

There is much talk in the Christian world today that if you follow Christ, you will be happy and live a prosperous life. Some people are drawn to the Christian faith thinking it is like an insurance policy. Many people think if they attend services every week, receive all the sacraments and are obedient to the church, they will make it to heaven without too much pain.

Jesus tells us that he does not have a place to lay his head, never mind being successful in the world. In today’s message, Peter is telling the new converts that we will be with Christ in heaven, if we carry the crosses he sends us. This is not a theology of works, this is a covenant of love. Our love for him will be what holds us up when we are persecuted for being a Christian.

Living the Christian life is not the product of mere men, it is the product of human nature raised to a higher plane by Divine Grace. The channels by which we receive his Divine Grace are sacraments, prayer and sacred scripture. We really can not say that being a Christian is too severe, because when we see how our baptism has made us brothers and sisters of Christ and has prepared us for the other sacraments, then we know that nothing can separate us from the love of God. No persecution, no trial and conviction, not even death itself will separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:31‑39).

To experience suffering because we are Christian is a cause for tremendous joy. It means that we belong to Christ, not the world. I must say that we have to pray and discern that the suffering that we are going through is because we are doing God’s will and not our will. We must all remember our time here on earth is but a moment in eternity, but the time that we will spend with Christ in heaven will be eternal, and that is “Good News.”

                         JOHN 17:1‑11

This passage from the Gospel of John is a prayer of Jesus. We can see that the world is a battle ground and the forces under Satan’s power are driven by bitterness and hatred for Jesus and all of his followers. We must never forget that we are locked in spiritual warfare and that we, by ourselves, are no match for Satan. We are called to put on our spiritual armor (Eph. 6:10‑18) and be ready.

Again we see Jesus going to his Father in prayer. He prayed to the Father to protect his followers and that protection extends today to you and me. We respond to that protection through our prayer life, our scripture study, and our receiving of the sacraments. He will make us holy and unite us in his truth if we abide in him and keep his commandments (John 15:7).

Jesus is telling us that eternal life is entering into a personal relationship with God in Jesus Christ. We see Jesus asking the Father to restore him to his original place now that his time on earth is coming very quickly to an end. We need to realize that Jesus’ resurrection and ascension were proof that this prayer was indeed answered in full. Jesus said that his disciples are his glory and that, of course, means us who have decided to follow Jesus.

What a tremendous blessing that Jesus can find glory in our lives. It is a tremendous sign of encouragement to all of us. If you have slipped or even walked away from Christ, now is the time to come back to him. His prayer to the Father was for all of his brothers and sisters. He wants all of us to have eternal life. His real and full glory is sharing with all of us who believe in him, the reality of seeing and giving praise and glory to his heavenly Father. We must remember, Jesus said, “I have not lost any whom you have given me.” So come on back; “Abba” is waiting.

Application

The first reading tells us the first Christian community devoted themselves to prayer. The second reading tells us that those who suffer because of righteousness are very much blessed.

The Gospel reveals that everything that was of the Father was also of Jesus at his hour of glory.

This week, let the presence of God fill you in your home, work, and school area. Let the power of prayer transform your attitude and your conduct this week. Make a commitment to yourself to begin each morning in a quiet time alone with the Lord. In the middle of your day take a few minutes again to spend a quiet time with the Lord in prayer. Before you go to sleep review your day with the Lord, and go to sleep with him on your mind.

Lectio Divina – 6th Sunday of Easter-A

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Lectio Divina – 6th Sunday of Easter-A

PURPOSE OF THIS SCRIPTURE READING – Develop a personal relationship with Jesus through the Word of God with the understanding that the Holy Spirit will teach and remind us of all Jesus said and did. Psalm 32:8 tells us, “I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk, give you counsel and watch over you.”

  1. Say the opening prayer
  2. Read the passage slowly three times as though Jesus were talking to you.
  3. Converse with Jesus, asking questions and listening to Him.

OPEN WITH THE FOLLOWING PRAYER:

 Father, I can’t understand Your Word without Your grace, I acknowledge my weakness so Your power can reach perfection in me. Send Your Holy Spirit to remind, teach, and guide me to the Truth. May I share as soon as possible whatever You teach me. AMEN

READ, REFLECT AND WRITE – John 14:15-21 – Jesus said to His disciples: ‘If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you always, the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot accept, because it neither sees nor knows Him. But you know Him, because He remains with you, and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you. In a little while the world will no longer see me, but you will see me, because I live and you will live. On that day you will realize that I am in my Father and you are in me and in you. Whoever has my commandments and observes them is the one who loves me. And whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and reveal myself to him.”

 

  1. What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

  1. What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

Share your reflection with someone.

SEXTO DOMINGO DE PASCUA – CICLO A

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SEXTO DOMINGO DE PASCUA – CICLO A

ANTES DE COMENZAR:

Ora y pídele a Dios que te hable a través de Su Espíritu Santo. “EL ESPIRITU SANTO INTERPRETE, QUE EL PADRE LES ENVIARA EN MI NOMBRE, LES VA A ENSEÑAR TODAS LAS COSAS Y LES RECORDARA TODAS MIS PALABRAS.”  (JUAN 14:26)

PRIMER DIA  Vuelve a leer las lecturas de la semana pasada.

 1. ¿Cuál fue el mensaje qué recibiste de la homilía o de las lecturas que oíste en misa el domingo?

 

  1. ¿De lo que aprendiste, qué escogiste para aplicar a tu vida esta semana?

 

SEGUNDO DIA                          LEE HECHOS 8:5-8, 14-17                   PRIMERA LECTURA

(“Samaria había aceptado la Palabra de Dios.”)

 

  1. ¿Adonde fue Felipe y que proclamó? Hechos 8:5

 

  1. ¿Quién era Felipe? Hechos 6:5 y 21:8

 

  1. ¿Qué hacían y veían las multitudes que oían a Felipe? Hechos 6:6

 

  1. ¿Qué les pasaba a los espíritus impuros y a los paralíticos lisiados? Hechos 6:7

 

  1. ¿Qué llegó a su punto culminante en ese pueblo? Hechos 6:8

 

Personal – ¿En qué forma ves que tu familia y amigos son sanados por tus palabras o acciones personales?

 

  1. ¿A quiénes mandaron los apóstoles y que aceptó Samaria? Hechos 8:14

 

  1. ¿Qué juzga la Palabra de Dios? Hebreos 4:12

 

  1. ¿Qué hicieron Pedro y Juan y qué pedían recibir en su oración? Hechos 8:15

 

  1. ¿Porqué no había venido el Espíritu Santo todavía a ellos? Hechos 8:16

 

  1. ¿Qué pasó cuando ellos impusieron sus manos sobre los demás? Hechos 8:17

 

  1. ¿Cómo recibieron al Espíritu Santo los apóstoles? Juan 20:22

 

Personal – ¿Qué señales ve tu familia, amigos y compañeros de trabajo en ti por medio del poder del Espíritu Santo que recibiste con el Bautismo, la Confirmación y la creencia en la Palabra de Dios?

 

TERCER DIA                              LEE 1 PEDRO 3:15-18                         SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“La razón por la que Cristo murió por nuestros pecados…fue que te podría llevar a Dios.”)

 

  1. ¿Dónde debemos venerar al Señor? 1 Pedro 3:15

 

  1. ¿Qué es lo que penetra el Señor? Lucas 16:15 y 1 Tes. 2:4

 

  1. Si alguien te pregunta la razón de esta esperanza, ¿qué debes estar listo a hacer y cómo        lo harás?  1 Pedro 3:15-16

 

  1. Cuando seas difamado, ¿qué debes hacer y que pasará a los que te calumnien?             1 Pedro 3:16

 

  1. Si es el designio de Dios que sufras, ¿por qué es mejor sufrir? 1 Pedro 3:17

 

  1. Al sufrir ¿a quién debemos seguir? 1 Pedro 2:21

 

  1. ¿Cuántas veces murió Cristo por los pecados y por quién? ¿y el hombre justo?              1 Pedro 3:18

 

  1. ¿Cuál fue la razón de la muerte de Cristo? 1 Pedro 3:18

 

  1. ¿En cuál existencia fue Cristo sentenciado a muerte y en qué reino le fue dada la vida?             1 Pedro 3:18

 

  1. ¿Qué vino antes de la vida en el Espíritu? l Pedro 3:18

 

  1. ¿Cómo probó Dios Su amor por nosotros? Romanos 5:8

 

Personal – ¿Cómo respondes a los demás cuando te preguntan porque tienes esperanza?  ¿Te ven los demás como una persona confiada en Dios?  Pregunta a las personas mas cercanas a ti si ven esta esperanza y si no, lee de nuevo el versículo 1 de Pedro 3:18 y Romanos 5:8-9 y medita sobre esto.

 

CUARTO DIA                              LEE JUAN 14:15-21                                             EVANGELIO

(“Aquel que me ame será amado también por mi Padre.”)

  1. ¿Quién está hablando en Juan 14:15-21 y Juan 14:9?

 

  1. ¿Cuáles son las dos cosas que debemos hacer para poder recibir el Espíritu Santo (El Paráclito)?  Juan 14:15

 

  1. ¿Por quién abogará Jesús con su Padre? ¿Estará siempre con nosotros? ¿Cuál es otro nombre que se le da al Paráclito; ¿cómo lo ve el mundo?  Juan 14:15-17

 

  1. ¿Cómo lo reconoces? ¿Hacia donde nos guiará?  Juan 14:17 y Juan 16:13

 

  1. ¿Qué efecto tiene la verdad sobre nosotros? Juan 8:31-32

 

  1. ¿Qué es lo que dice Jesús a sus discípulos que hará y que no hará? Juan 14:18

 

  1. ¿Quién no lo verá más y quién lo verá como uno que tiene qué? Juan 14:19

 

  1. ¿Dónde está Jesús y donde estamos nosotros? Juan 14:20

 

  1. ¿Quién es el hombre que ama a Jesús y cómo se comporta? Juan 14:21 y  1 Juan 2:5-6

 

  1. ¿Quién amará a quién ame a Jesús? Juan 14:21 y Juan 16:27

 

  1. ¿Qué le revelará Jesús? Juan 14:21

 

Personal – ¿En qué formas se te ha revelado Jesús en el hogar, en la escuela, en el trabajo  o en la Iglesia?

 

QUINTO DIA                             LEE EL SALMO 66:1-7, 16, 20

(“Canta alabanzas a la gloria de su nombre.”)

Lee y medita el Salmo 66:1-7, 16, 20.

 

¿Qué te dice personalmente el Señor por medio de este Salmo?

 

¿Cómo puedes aplicar esto a tu vida diaria?

 

SEXTO DIA                               LEE TODO EL COMENTARIO

                                                            HECHOS 8:5-8, 14-17

            Felipe fue a Samaria un lugar en que los Israelitas discriminaban fuertemente a los samaritanos porque ellos no seguían la ley de Moisés.  Es increíble que haya escogido ir a una ciudad hostil para llevarles el poder sanador del Señor.  Los alivios fueron muchos y se expandió la alegría por toda la ciudad.  Cuando los apóstoles se enteraron de lo que había pasado fueron y bautizaron a muchos en el nombre del Señor y muchos recibieron el Espíritu Santo.

            Jesús instruyó a sus apóstoles a que fueran y atestiguaran por todos los confines de la tierra (Hechos 1:6).  La nueva fe se formó oficialmente con el martirio de Esteban y esto marco el comienzo del rechazo de la nueva fe (Hechos 8:1).  Preguntamos, ¿qué nos trae el bautismo hoy en día?  El Bautismo nos trae un nuevo comienzo, una familia nueva (la familia de Dios).  Es una limpieza de los caminos viejos y el comienzo de una vida nueva (la vida de Jesús).  El Espíritu Santo desata todo su poder sobre ti en la Confirmación (Hechos 1:8).  La gran tragedia de nuestros tiempos es que muchos cristianos ni siquiera saben que dentro de ellos mismos tienen el poder más grande del mundo (1 Juan 4:4).

            ¿Creemos realmente que el Espíritu Santo habita dentro de cada uno de los que creemos que Jesucristo es el Señor?  La manera como vivimos es una prueba visible de lo que realmente creemos.  Si el Espíritu Santo no parece estar visiblemente en tu vida, búscalo por medio de las Escrituras y la Oración.  El Espíritu Santo nos da el poder de resistir la tentación y alejar el mal (Santiago 4:7).  El mundo en general hoy en día es hostil a Jesús, pero gracias a Su Espíritu Santo, hemos sido llamados a ser sus discípulos victoriosos y a bautizar a todas las naciones de la tierra (Mat. 18:19) y con la ayuda de Dios, los haremos.

                                                                1 PEDRO 3:15-18

            La fe, para mucha gente es algo muy privado que debe reservarse para uno mismo; sin embargo, probablemente el secreto mejor guardado del mundo es la Revelación de que Jesucristo es el Señor y Salvador de la humanidad.  No necesitamos ser presumidos ni arrogantes al compartir nuestra fe, pero tampoco debemos ocultarla bajo una canasta (Mateo 5:15), o no permitir que sea vista como la ciudad en la montaña (Mateo 5:14).

            Cuando nos preguntan sobre nuestro estilo de vida, contestemos siempre con respeto y gentileza de acuerdo con nuestra fe.  ¿Es realmente visible para los demás tu fe en Cristo?  No quiero decir por lo que haces, sino por lo que eres.  ¿Estás preparado(a) para decirles a otros lo que Cristo ha hecho en tu vida? ¿Estás preparado para sufrir por Cristo, quizá perder tu trabajo, ir a prisión (oponerse al aborto) o incluso ser asesinado porque convenciste a otro que sea cristiano?  ¿Si te arrestaran hoy por ser cristiano, tendrían ellos suficiente evidencia como para condenarte?

            Que tu estilo de vida esté de acuerdo con la enseñanza de Jesús y las acusaciones de los demás quedarán huecas y se avergonzarán de ellos mismos.  Tu conducta como seguidor de Cristo debe estar por encima de toda crítica.  Estamos llamados a ser sus mensajeros y como el mismo Jesús, podemos esperar sufrimientos en el camino.

                                                                  JUAN 14:15-21

            Jesús, había prometido dejar Su Espíritu Santo con sus seguidores y ellos deben haber estado algo confusos pensando como podría dejarlos y al mismo tiempo estar con ellos.  En su humanidad, Jesús estaba solo para aquellos que estaban con El, pero ahora por medio de Su Espíritu Santo El está presente en todas partes.  Su Espíritu reside en nuestro templo (cuerpo) (1 Corintios 3:16) y El está siempre listo para con Su presencia, ayudar a Su pueblo.  El Espíritu Santo es la verdadera presencia de Dios dentro de todos los creyentes.

            El prometió que su Padre nos daría otro Consolador y que El nunca nos abandonaría; ¿Crees realmente que dentro de ti existe Dios?  Jesús así lo dijo, y dijo también que nunca abandonará el corazón de quienes creen en El.  El Consolador es una combinación de consuelo y consejo.

            El Espíritu Santo es una persona poderosa quien está trabajando por nosotros y con nosotros. Necesitamos saber que el Espíritu Santo es el espíritu de la verdad (Juan 14:7).  El es nuestro maestro y necesitamos recordar que El nos enseñará que hacer y qué decir cuando estemos en una crisis.  Nunca debemos convencernos a nosotros mismos o a otros de que el Espíritu Santo no es nuestro maestro o que El nos abandonará.

            El es el Espíritu de la verdad.  El nos dará fortaleza para hablar cuando es más seguro callar.  El nos acompañará cuando todos se burlen de nosotros, nos abandonen e incluso nos maten.  Sin embargo, no debemos sentir angustia, sino alegría extática porque Jesús nos ha escogido para ser sus embajadores.  Esto significa que tenemos el privilegio increíble de ser mensajeros de la Buena Nueva y con el Espíritu Santo residiendo dentro de nosotros somos mucho más que simples conquistadores.

Aplicación

            La primera lectura nos revela que el regalo de la salud puede ser simplemente un toque ordinario de la mano sobre alguien quien tiene dolor.  La segunda lectura revela lo profundo de nuestra fe por medio de nuestra respuesta.  El Evangelio nos habla de la promesa de Jesús de dejarnos Su Espíritu Santo con nosotros y llenarnos de poder con Su amor.

            Esta semana vamos a ver a los miembros de nuestra familia y vamos a responder a sus necesidades y dolores tendiéndoles la mano, ayudándolos tal vez en sus quehaceres domésticos, lavándoles su carro o simplemente sentándonos a escuchar a un ser querido compartiendo sus necesidades.  Da un paso adelante en la fe y deja que el Espíritu Santo te dé valentía esta semana y seas un servidor(a) para tu familia, amistades y comunidad.

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER ‑ CYCLE A

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SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER ‑ CYCLE A

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit.

“THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.” (JOHN 14:26)

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

  1. What was a helpful or new thought from the readings or from the homily you heard on Sunday?

 

  1. From what you learned, what personal application did you choose to apply to your life this week?

 

SECOND DAY          READ ACTS 8:5‑8, 14‑17      FIRST READING

(“Samaria had accepted the Word of God.”)

  1. Where did Philip go, and what did he proclaim? Acts 8:5

 

  1. Who was Philip? Acts 6:5, Acts 21:8

 

  1. What did the crowds do who heard Philip, and what did they see?   Acts 8:6

 

  1. What happened to the unclean spirits, and what happened to the paralytic or cripples?   Acts 8:7

 

  1. What rose to fever pitch in that town? Acts 8:8

 

Personal ‑ In what way do you see family or friends being healed by your words or touch?

 

  1. What had Samaria accepted, and what two men did the apostles send to them?   Acts 8:14

 

  1. What does the Word of God judge? Hebrews 4:12

 

  1. What did Peter and John do, and what did they pray that they might receive?   Acts 8:15

 

  1. Why had the Holy Spirit not yet come down on them? Acts 8:16

 

  1. What happened when the pair laid hands on them? Acts 8:17

 

  1. How did the apostles receive the Holy Spirit? John 20:22

 

Personal ‑ What signs do your family, friends and work acquaintanc­es see performed by you through the power of the Holy Spirit that you have received by way of your baptism and confirmation and belief through the Word of God?

 

THIRD DAY            READ 1 PETER 3:15‑18      SECOND READING

(“The reason why Christ died for sins,…was that he might lead you to God.”)

 

  1. Where are we to venerate the Lord? 1 Peter 3:15

 

  1. Upon what does God look, and of what is he the tester? Luke 16:15, 1 Thess. 2:4

 

  1. If anyone asks us the reason for this hope, what should we be ready to do, and how are we to do it? 1 Peter 3:15‑16

 

  1. Whenever we are defamed by those who libel our way of life in Christ, what are we to do, and what will happen to them? l Peter 3:16

 

  1. If it is God’s will that we suffer, for what is it better to suffer?   1 Peter 3:17

 

  1. Whose footsteps do we follow in suffering? 1 Peter 2:21

 

  1. How many times did Christ die for sins and for whom, also the just man?   1 Peter 3:18

 

  1. For what reason did Christ die? 1 Peter 3:18

 

  1. In what existence was Christ put to death, and in what realm was he given life?   1 Peter 3:18

 

  1. What came before life in the Spirit? 1 Peter 3:18

 

  1. How did God prove his love for us? Romans 5:8

 

Personal ‑ In what way have you responded to others when they ask you why you are so hopeful? Do others see you as a hope‑filled person? Ask those closest to you if they see this hope in you and, if not, reread and pray over 1 Peter 3:18 and Romans 5:8‑9.

 

FOURTH DAY            READ JOHN 14:15‑21               GOSPEL

(“He who loves me will be loved by my Father.”)

 

  1. Who is speaking in John 14:15‑21? John 14:9

 

  1. What two things must we do in order to receive the Paraclete (the Holy Spirit)? John 14:14-16

 

  1. For whom will Jesus ask the Father, will he always be with us, what is another name for the Paraclete, and how does the world see him?   John 14:15-17

 

  1. How do we recognize him, and to what will he guide? John 14:17, John 16:13

 

  1. What does the truth do to us? John 8:31‑32

 

  1. What does Jesus tell his disciples he will not do, and what does he say he will do?   John 14:18

 

  1. Who will see him no more, and who will see him as one who has what?   John 14:19

 

  1. Where is Jesus, and where are we? John 14:20

 

  1. Who is the man who loves Jesus, and how does he conduct himself?  John 14:21, 1 John 2:5‑6

 

  1. Who will love him who loves Jesus? John 14:21, John 16:27

 

  1. What will Jesus reveal to him? John 14:21

 

Personal ‑ What are the ways that Jesus has revealed himself to you at home, at school, at work, or at church?

 

FIFTH DAY          READ PSALM 66:1‑7, 16, 20

(“…sing praise to the glory of his name;”)

 

Read and meditate on Psalm 66:1‑7, 16, 20.

 

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

SIXTH DAY         READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ACTS 8:5‑8, 14‑17

Philip went to Samaria, a country of people who were regarded with condescension by the Israelite’s because they did not follow the law of Moses. It is incredible that he had chosen to go to an unwelcome city to bring the healing power of the Lord. The healing’s were many, and a sense of joy spread throughout the city. When the apostles heard of what happened, they followed and baptized many in the name of the Lord and consequently many received the Holy Spirit.

Jesus told his apostles to go forth and be witnesses in all areas even to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). The new faith was officially formed when Stephen was killed and this began the rejection of the new faith (Acts 8;1). We ask, what does baptism bring to us today? Baptism brings us into a new beginning, a new family (God’s family). It is a cleansing of old ways and the beginning of a new way (Jesus’ way). The Holy Spirit releases his full range of power through you in Confirmation (Acts l:8). The great tragedy of our times is that so many Christians today do not even know that within them they have the greatest power in all the world (1 John 4:4).

Do we really believe that the Holy Spirit dwells within each one of us who believes that Jesus Christ is Lord? The way we live our life is a visible proof of what we really believe. If the Holy Spirit does not seem to be present in your life, seek him out through Scripture and prayer. The Holy Spirit gives us the power to resist the devil and causes him to flee (James 4:7). Much of the world today is hostile to Jesus Christ, but because of his Holy Spirit, we are called to be victorious disciples and baptize all the nations of the earth (Matt 28:19). With God’s help, we will.

1 PETER 3:15‑18

Faith, to many people, is a personal and private matter that we try to keep to ourselves. Yet, probably the best kept secret is the revelation that Jesus Christ is the Lord and Savior of the whole world. We do not have to be boisterous or objectionable in sharing our faith, but we should not hide it under a bushel basket (Matthew 5:15) or keep it from being seen like a city on a hill (Matthew 5:14).

When asked about our lifestyle, we should always try to answer gently and respectfully in compliance to our faith. Is your faith in Christ readily observable by others? I don’t mean, by what you do, I mean by who you are. Are you prepared to tell others what Jesus Christ has done in your life? Are you prepared to suffer for Christ, such as losing your job, going to prison, opposing abortion or even being assassinated because you have convinced others that you are a Christian? If you were arrested today for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you? Let your lifestyle be so much in accord with what Jesus teaches that their accusations will be empty and only embarrass them. Your conduct as a follower of Christ must be above criticism. We are called to be his messengers and, like Jesus, we can expect suffering along the way.

JOHN 14:15‑21

Jesus had promised to leave his Holy Spirit with his followers and they were somewhat confused, and wondered how he could leave them and still be with them. In the form of human flesh, Jesus was available only to those who were where he was, but now he is available wherever we are through his Holy Spirit. his Spirit resides in our temple (body ‑ 1 Cor. 3:16) and he is always prepared to use his presence to help his people. The Holy Spirit is the very presence of God within us and all believers.

He promised that his Father would give us another comforter and that he would never leave us. Do you really believe the presence of God exists within you? Jesus stated that he does live within us and that he will never leave the heart of one who believes in Him. The comforter is a combination of comfort and counsel. The Holy Spirit is a powerful person who is working for us and with us. We have to know that the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth (14:17), and is our teacher. We must remember that he will show us what to do and what to say when we are in a crisis. All of our intelligence and human wisdom are weak and insignificant compared to his wisdom. We must never seduce ourselves or others into thinking that the Holy Spirit is not our teacher or that he will ever leave us.

He is our Spirit of truth. He will give us the courage to speak when it is easier to be silent. He will be within us and comfort us when all others will mock us, abandon us, or even kill us. But, we are not to be pitied; rather, we are to be ecstatic with joy because Jesus has chosen us to be his ambassa­dors. This means we have the incredible privilege of being messengers of the Good News and, with the Holy Spirit who resides within us, we are far more than conquerors.

Application

The first reading reveals to us that the gift of healing can be present through just an ordinary touch of the hand on someone who is suffering. The second reading reveals the depth of our faith by our response. The Gospel tells us of the promise of Jesus to leave his Holy Spirit with us and empower us with his love.

This week, look at the members in your family and respond to their needs and hurts by affirming them with a helping hand, possibly with the chores, or with the washing of a car, or simply sitting and listening to a loved one share his needs. Take a leap in faith and allow the Holy Spirit to give you boldness this week and be a loving servant to your family, friends and community.

Lectio Divina – 5th SUNDAY OF EASTER – A – JOHN 14 1-12

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5th SUNDAY OF EASTER – A – JOHN 14   1-12

PURPOSE OF THIS SCRIPTURE READING – Develop a personal relationship with Jesus through the Word of God with the understanding that the Holy Spirit will teach and remind us of all Jesus said and did. Psalm 32:8 tells us, “I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk, give you counsel and watch over you.”

  1. Say the opening prayer
  2. Read the passage slowly three times as though Jesus were talking to you.
  3. Converse with Jesus, asking questions and listening to Him.

 

OPEN WITH THE FOLLOWING PRAYER:

 

Father, I can’t understand Your Word without Your grace, I acknowledge my weakness so Your power can reach perfection in me. Send Your Holy Spirit to remind, teach, and guide me to the Truth. May I share as soon as possible whatever You teach me. AMEN

 

READ, REFLECT AND WRITE – John 14:1-12 – Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be. Where I am going you know the way.” Thomas said to him, “Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you know me, then you will also know my Father. From now on you do know him and have seen him.” Philip said to him, “Master, show us the Father, and that will be enough for us.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you for so long a time and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on my own. The Father who dwells in me is doing his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else, believe because of the works themselves. Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these, because I am going to the Father.”

 

  1. What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

 

 

Share your reflection with someone.

QUINTO DOMINGO DE PASCUA – CICLO A

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QUINTO DOMINGO DE PASCUA – CICLO A

 ANTES DE COMENZAR:

Ora y pídele a Dios que te hable a través de Su Espíritu Santo. “EL ESPIRITU SANTO INTERPRETE, QUE EL PADRE LES ENVIARA EN MI NOMBRE, LES VA A ENSEÑAR TODAS LAS COSAS Y LES RECORDARA TODAS MIS PALABRAS.”  (JUAN 14:26)

PRIMER DIA  Vuelve a leer las lecturas de la semana pasada.

 

  1. ¿Cuál fue el mensaje qué recibiste de la homilía o de las lecturas que oíste en misa el domingo?

 

  1. ¿De lo que aprendiste, qué escogiste para aplicar a tu vida esta semana?

 

SEGUNDO DIA                                  LEE HECHOS 6:1-7                       PRIMERA LECTURA

(“La palabra de Dios se difundía.”)

 

  1. ¿De qué se quejaban aquellos que hablaban griego? Hechos 6:1

 

  1. ¿En qué consiste la religión verdadera y perfecta? Santiago 1:27

 

  1. ¿A quiénes reunieron a los doce; qué les dijeron que no era correcto descuidar?  Hechos 6:2

 

  1. ¿Qué pidieron los discípulos que se buscara y cómo debían ser esos hombres? Hechos 6:3

 

  1. ¿Qué podemos hacer con las palabras que nos enseña el Espíritu? 1 Corintios 2:13

 

  1. ¿Cuáles son las dos cosas en las que se podían concentrar los discípulos? Hechos 6:4

 

  1. Con ésta proposición aceptada por la comunidad ¿quiénes fueron seleccionados?  Hechos 6:5

 

  1. ¿De qué estaba lleno Esteban? Hechos 6:5

 

  1. ¿Cuáles son las dos cosas que hicieron los discípulos cuando éstos fueron presentados?             Hechos 6:6

 

  1. ¿Qué sucedía al mismo tiempo que se difundía la palabra de Dios? Hechos 6:7

 

  1. ¿Quiénes estaban entre los que aceptaron la fe? Hechos 6:7

 

Personal – ¿Cómo has respondido en tu papel de líder ya seas clérigo, padre o maestro?  ¿De qué modo has demostrado que eres profundamente espiritual y prudente en tu casa, trabajo o comunidad?

 

TERCER DIA                                  LEE 1 PEDRO 2:4-9                         SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“Tropiezan en ella: esto se refiere a que no creen en la Palabra.”)

  1. ¿A quién debemos acercarnos, qué clase de piedra es El, quién lo rechazó, y quién la escogió por su             valor?  1 Pedro 2:4, Hechos 4:11

 

  1. ¿Qué somos? ¿Cómo hemos sido construidos y qué se construye con nosotros?  1 Pedro 2:5

 

  1. ¿Qué ofrecemos, a quién le agrada esto y por medio de quién lo ofrecemos? 1 Pedro 2:5

 

  1. ¿Qué dice la Escritura que fue colocado en Sión? ¿Qué clase de piedra es?  1 Pedro 2:6,  Isaías 28:16 y Romanos 9:33

 

  1. ¿Qué le pasa al que pone su fe en la piedra de base (Jesús)? 1 Pedro 2:6

 

  1. ¿Quienes recibirán honor? 1 Pedro 2:7

 

  1. ¿Qué es la piedra para aquellos que no tienen fe? 1 Pedro 2:7-8

 

  1. ¿Quiénes son los que tropiezan y caen? 1 Pedro 2:8

 

  1. ¿Quiénes somos, y quién nos eligió como suyos? 1 Pedro 2:9

 

  1. ¿De dónde no llamó Dios? 1 Pedro 2:9

 

Personal – ¿De qué manera ven los que te rodean, en quién pones tu fe?  ¿De qué modo se ve en tus acciones lo que crees?  ¿Cómo lo ve tu cónyuge, hijos, amigos, familiares compañeros de trabajo, etc.?

 

CUARTO DIA                               LEE JUAN 14:1-12                                              EVANGELIO

(“Yo soy el camino, la verdad y la vida.”)

 

  1. ¿Qué no debemos hacer y en quién debemos poner nuestra fe? Juan 14:1

 

  1. ¿Dónde hay muchas mansiones, que dijo Jesús que iba a hacer? Juan 14:2

 

Personal – ¿Cómo te imaginas el cielo, cómo será?  ¿A quién crees que verás allá?

 

  1. ¿Qué repite Jesús en el versículo 3 de Juan 14, qué dice que hará cuando regrese, y por qué?  ¿Qué dice que sabes?  Juan 14:3-4

 

  1. ¿Qué le dijo Tomás a Jesús? ¿Cuáles son las tres cosas que Jesús dice que El es?  ¿Cómo vienes tú al Padre?  Juan 14:3-6

 

  1. ¿De dónde viene la salvación? ¿Qué nos asegura la entrada al santuario?  Hechos 4:11-12 y Hebreos 10:19-20

 

  1. ¿Quién dice Jesús que es? Juan 6:35 y Juan 10:9

 

  1. ¿A quién tenemos acceso por medio de Jesús? Efesios 2:13,18

 

  1. Si conocemos realmente a Jesús, ¿a quién mas conocemos? ¿Qué dice Jesús en este punto?

Juan 14:7

 

  1. ¿Qué le dice Felipe a Jesús, cuál fue su respuesta? Juan 14:8-9

 

  1. ¿Qué pregunta les hace Jesús, qué dice sobre las palabras que pronuncia? ¿Dónde vive el padre y porqué?  Juan 14:10

 

  1. ¿Qué nos está pidiendo Jesús que creamos? ¿Qué hará para ayudarnos a creer?  Juan 14:11

 

  1. ¿Qué hará la persona que tiene fe y por qué? Juan 14:12

 

  1. ¿Cuál es la obra de Dios? Juan 6:29

 

PERSONAL – ¿De qué modo ha sido Jesús, el camino, la verdad y la vida en tu vida? ¿Cómo ven esto los demás en ti?

 

QUINTO DIA                                  SALMO 33:1-2,4-5,18-19

(“Preparen sus palabras y serán escuchados.”)

Lee y medita el Salmo 33:1-2 4-5 18-19.

¿Qué te dice personalmente el Señor por medio de este Salmo?

 

¿Cómo puedes aplicar esto a tu vida diaria?

 

SEXTO DIA                               LEE TODO EL COMENTARIO

                                                                   HECHOS 6:1-7

            Los Judíos que hablaban griego eran probablemente de otras tierras y se quejaban de que sus viudas no eran tratadas con justicia.  Esta discriminación tal vez era debida a una barrera del lenguaje.  Los apóstoles pusieron a siete hombres respetables que hablaban griego a cargo de los programas de alimentos y viviendas.  De este modo los apóstoles podían continuar centrando su ministerio en las enseñanzas y predicación de las Buenas Nuevas acerca de Jesús.

            Tal vez quisiéramos pertenecer a una iglesia como la primitiva con sus milagros, coparticipación y alegría de ser parte de una comunidad, pero ellos tenían tantos problemas como los tenemos nosotros hoy día. Ninguna iglesia será perfecta hasta que Cristo y Su iglesia se unan en Su segunda venida.  Todas las iglesias van luchando por su crecimiento y si las deficiencias de tu iglesia te mortifican, pregúntate: ¿me permitirían ser miembro de una iglesia perfecta?

            Recordemos que estamos llamados a ser fieles no exitosos.  Todos podemos poner nuestro grano de arena para hacer a nuestra iglesia en particular una vibrante, viva y sana comunidad de Dios, centrándonos en las enseñanzas y predicaciones de las Buenas Nuevas de Jesucristo.

            Quizá nos preguntamos “¿Qué son las Buenas Nuevas?” Estas son mensajes de esperanza, la esperanza de que los oprimidos serán libres, los enfermos sanarán, los paralíticos caminarán, los ciegos verán, los desnudos tendrán que ponerse y los que no tienen vivienda la recibirán.

            Podemos traer estas Buenas Nuevas a todos los que encontremos pues dentro de nosotros está el poder del Espíritu Santo (1 Juan 4:4), y es importante que nos demos cuenta que debemos vivir nuestras vidas para otros, no para nosotros mismos.  Estamos llamados a negarnos a nosotros mismos y amar a los demás tal y como Jesús lo ha hecho.

            La iglesia primitiva está aquí todavía y es guiada por el mismo Espíritu Santo.  Necesitas orar y pedir que las habilidades que Dios te dio te sean reveladas y buscar a quién puedes ayudar en tu comunidad.

                                                                  1 PEDRO 2:4-9

            Pedro les está recordando a los nuevos Cristianos que deben ser santos y que eso se revelará por medio del modo que atestigüen para otros.  Los Cristianos deben ser el material viviente de que esté formado el nuevo templo de Dios.  El templo de Jerusalén estaba construido de piedras ordinarias, sin vida, pero nosotros debido a Jesucristo nos hemos convertido en templos vivos de Dios (1 Corintios 3:16).

            Juan nos dice en la Escritura que El es nuestra vid y nosotros somos sus ramas y que sin la vid las ramas no pueden dar frutos (Juan 15:5).  En el templo de Jerusalén sacrificaban animales y ofrecían frutos de los campos de Dios.

            Ahora, tú y yo, debido a Cristo, por medio de Cristo y en Cristo nos ofrecemos nosotros mismos y a nuestro sacrificio de alabanza a Cristo.  Como templos de Dios llevaremos a cabo nuestras buenas obras y la Eucaristía será nuestro modo diario vivir.  Jesús es nuestra piedra angular y sobre esa piedra ha construido un templo humano de santos vivientes.  Nosotros hacemos cosas buenas, no para volvernos buenos o para recibir un premio.  Lo hacemos debido a la bondad que está dentro de nosotros.  Esta bondad es la presencia del Espíritu Santo el cuál no da la fuerza de acercarnos y traer a nuestros hermanos y hermanas de la oscuridad a la luz.  Gran parte del mundo de hoy está en la oscuridad debido a que no han sentido de un modo personal el ser amados por Cristo.  Estás llamado a traer esa luz para ellos.  Rezo para que empieces dentro de tu propia familia, tu familia sacerdotal.

                                                                   JUAN 14:1-12

            Jesús nos dice que si realmente creemos en él, no hay incertidumbre acerca de la muerte y a donde nos llevará.  Nos dice que el cielo está tan seguro como nuestra confianza y fe en El.  El ha preparado el camino; eso es seguro.

            La única duda está en nuestra buena voluntad para creer que El ha preparado la vida eterna para nosotros.  No debemos tener miedo a la muerte de nosotros mismos o de nuestros seres queridos.

            Sabemos que El ha preparado un lugar para nosotros y cuando esté listo vendrá y nos llevará a casa, a la mansión de nuestro Padre.  Esta es la increíble promesa que Jesús nos ha hechos a todos los que creemos en El.

            Vemos a Jesús describiendo el camino para encontrar a Dios y es únicamente por medio de El que podemos llegar al Padre.  Nos dice “Yo soy El camino” pues El es ambos Dios y hombre.  Uniendo nuestras vidas con la suya, nos unimos con Dios.  Confiemos en Dios y El personalmente nos llevará al Padre. Algunas personas creen que el decir que Jesús es el único camino es poco.  Su camino es tan ancho que cabe en el mundo entero, si éste escoge aceptarlo. ¿Has escogido aceptarlo como el camino, la verdad y la vida?

            Recordemos que Jesús fue la imagen visible del Dios invisible.  Como el camino, El nos guía al Padre. Como la verdad, El es la realidad de todas las promesas de Dios.  Y como la vida, El une su vida divina a la nuestra ahora y después eternamente.

            Siendo divino Jesucristo fue la única persona que nació para morir por nosotros.  Debido a El, tú y yo nunca moriremos; Creyendo en El viviremos para siempre con El en la mansión de Su Padre (Juan 3:16). La pregunta que Felipe hizo, “¿Quién es el Padre? muéstranoslo,” la contestación de Jesús entonces es la misma contestación dada por El hoy en día.

            Ponte en calma y escucha a Dios hablándote (Salmo 46:11) y oirás como te dice Te amé, aún cuando eras un pecador, aún así decidí morir por ti (Romanos 5:8) simplemente por que te amo.  El es el camino, la verdad y la vida.  Has que tu vida demuestre a otros que ésta es la verdad.

 Aplicación

            La primera lectura nos dice que debemos ser servidores del Señor.  La segunda lectura nos invita a ser gente santa, gente que se preocupa por los demás.  En el Evangelio se nos muestra que solamente a través de Jesús podemos llegar a estar con el Padre.

            Practiquemos esto esta semana sirviendo a alguien que nos cause alguna dificultad.  No dejes que la persona se de cuenta que estás haciendo un esfuerzo especial para servirle.  Que tu santidad se concrete esta semana en servir y hacer oración.  Un modo que sugiero es ofrecer tu ayuda a algún miembro de la familia haciendo quehaceres de la casa o ayudando a un compañero(a) con algún trabajo.

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER ‑ CYCLE A

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FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER ‑ CYCLE A

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit.

“THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.” (JOHN 14:26)

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

 

  1. What was a helpful or new thought from the readings or from the homily you heard on Sunday?

 

  1. From what you learned, what personal application did you choose to apply to your life this week?

 

SECOND DAY              READ ACTS 6:1‑7          FIRST READING

(“The Word of God continued to spread.”)

  1. About what were those who spoke Greek complaining? Acts 6:1

 

  1. What makes for pure worship? James 1:27

 

  1. Whom did the twelve assemble, and what did they tell them it was not right for them to neglect? Acts 6:2

 

  1. For what did the disciples tell them to look, and what are these men to be like?   Acts 6:3

 

  1. By words being taught by the Spirit, what does this enable us to do?   1 Cor 2:13

 

  1. On what two things would this permit the disciples to concentrate?   Acts 6:4

 

  1. By this proposal being unanimously accepted by the community, whom did they select?   Acts 6:5

 

  1. With what was Stephen filled? Acts 6:5

 

  1. What two things did the disciples do to them when they were presented?   Acts 6:6

 

  1. What happened at the same time the word of God spread? Acts 6:7

 

  1. Who were among those who embraced the faith? Acts 6:7

 

Personal ‑ How have you responded in your role of leadership as clergyman, parent, teacher, etc.? How have you shown that you are deeply spiritual and prudent in your home and work or community?

 

THIRD DAY             READ 1 PETER 2:4‑9       SECOND READING

(“Those who stumble and fall are the disbelievers in God’s word;”)

  1. To whom are you to come, what kind of a stone is he, by whom was he rejected, and by whom is he approved and precious? 1 Peter 2:4, Acts 4:11

 

  1. What are we, how have we been built, and into what have we been built?   1 Peter 2:5

 

  1. What are we offering, to whom have they been acceptable, and whom is it through?   1 Peter 2:5

 

  1. What does Scripture say is being laid in Zion, and what kind of stone?  1 Peter 2:6, Isaiah 28:16, Romans 9:33

 

  1. What will happen to him who puts his faith in the corner‑stone (Jesus)?   1 Peter 2:6

 

  1. To whom is the stone of value? 1 Peter 2:7

 

  1. What is the stone for those who have no faith? 1 Peter 2:7‑8

 

  1. Who are those who stumble and fall? 1 Peter 2:8

 

  1. Who are we, and what does he claim for his own? 1 Peter 2:9

 

  1. From what did the one call you? 1 Peter 2:9

 

Personal ‑ In what way do those around you see in whom you put your faith? In what way do your actions reflect what you believe to your spouse, children, family, friends, co‑workers, etc.

 

FOURTH DAY             READ JOHN 14:1‑12                GOSPEL

(“I am the way, the truth, and the life.”)

  1. What are we not to do, and in whom are we to have our faith?   John 14:1

 

  1. Where are there many dwelling places, and what did Jesus say he was going to do?   John 14:2

 

Personal ‑ How do you picture heaven, and what will it be like? Whom do you think you will see there?

 

  1. What does Jesus repeat in verse 3 of John 14, what does he say he will come back to do, and for what reason, and what does he   say you know?   John 14:3-4

 

  1. What did Thomas say to Jesus, and what are the three things that Jesus says he is, and how do you come to the Father?      John 14:5-6

 

  1. From where does salvation come, and what assures us entrance into the sanctuary? Acts 4:11-12, Hebrews 10:19‑20

 

  1. Who does Jesus say he is? John 6:35, John 10:9

 

  1. To whom do we have access through Jesus? Eph 2:13, 18

 

  1. If we really knew Jesus, who else would you know, and what does Jesus say from this point on?   John 14:7

 

  1. What does Philip say to Jesus and what was his response? John 14:8‑9

 

  1. What question does Jesus ask them, what does he say about the words he speaks, where does the Father live, and for what reason?  John 14:10

 

  1. What is Jesus asking us to believe, and what does he do to help us believe?   John 14:11

 

  1. What will the person who has faith do and why? John 14:12

 

  1. What is the work of God? John 6:29

 

Personal ‑ How has Jesus been the way, the truth, and the life in your life? How have others seen the way, the truth, and the life of Jesus in you?

 

FIFTH DAY        READ PSALM 33:1‑2, 4‑5, 18‑19

(“Prepare your words and you will be listened to.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 33:1‑2, 4‑5, 18‑19.

 

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

SIXTH DAY         READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ACTS 6:1‑7

The Greek‑speaking Jews were probably from other lands and they complained that their widows were being treated unfairly. This discrimination was probably compounded by a language barrier. The apostles put seven Greek‑speaking, respectable men in charge of the food and shelter program. This allowed the apostles to keep the focus of their ministry on teaching and preaching the Good News about Jesus.

We may wish that we could belong to a church like the early church with all its miracles, sharing, and joy of being part of a community, but they had just as many problems as we do today. No church will ever be perfect until Christ and his church are united at his second coming. All churches are struggling in their growth and if your church’s shortcomings distress you, ask yourself; would a perfect church let me be a member?

We need to remember that we are all called to be faithful, not successful. We can all pitch in to make our own particular church a vibrant, living, healthy community of God by focusing on the teaching and the preaching of the Good News of Jesus Christ.

We might ask, “What is the Good News?” The Good News is a message of hope ‑ a hope that the oppressed will be free, the sick will be healed, the lame will walk, the blind will see, the naked will be clothed and the homeless will be sheltered.

We can bring this Good News to everyone we meet because within us is the power of the Holy Spirit (1 John 4:4), and it is important for us to realize that we are called to live our lives for others, not for ourselves. We are called to die to ourselves and love others just as Jesus has done.

The early church is still here today and it is being guided by the same Holy Spirit. You need to pray, and let your God‑given abilities become revealed to you, and then seek others in your community to help.

                         1 PETER 2:4‑9

Peter is giving the new Christians a reminder that they are called to be holy, and this will be revealed by the way they witness to others. Christians must be the living material from which the new temple of God is formed. The temple of Jerusalem was built out of ordinary dead stones, but we, because of Jesus Christ, have become living temples of God (l Cor. 3:16).

John tells us in Scripture that he is our vine and we are his branches and, without the vine, the branches cannot bear any fruit (John 15:5). In the temple of Jerusalem they sacrificed animals and offered fruits of the field to God.

Now, you and I, because of Christ, through Christ, and in Christ, will offer ourselves and our sacrifice of praise to Christ. As temples of God we will perform good works, and the Eucharist will be a daily way of life for us. Jesus is our cornerstone, and upon that stone he has built a human temple of living saints. We do good things, not to become good or to earn a reward. We do good things because of the goodness that is within us. That goodness is the presence of the Holy Spirit which empowers us to reach out and bring our brothers and sisters out of the darkness and into the light. Much of the world today is in darkness because people have not experienced being personally loved by Christ. You are called to bring that light to them. I pray that you will start within your own family, your priestly family.

                         JOHN 14:1‑12

Jesus tells us that if we really believe in him, there is no uncertainty about death and to what it leads. He tells us that heaven is as positive as our trust and faith in him. He has prepared the way; that is certain.

The only uncertainty is our willingness to believe that he has prepared eternal life for us. We do not have to fear death for ourselves or our loved ones. We know that he has prepared a place for us and when it is ready he will come and take us home to our Father’s mansion. This is the incredible promise that Jesus has made to all who believe in him.

We see Jesus describing the way to find God, and it is only through him that we can reach the Father. He states, I am THE way because he is both God and man. By uniting our lives with his, we become united with God. Trust in Jesus and he will personally take us to the Father. Some people think that saying Jesus is the only way to the Father is too narrow. His way is wide enough for the whole world, if the world chooses to accept it. Have you really chosen to accept him as the way, the truth and the life?

We must remember that Jesus was the visible image of the invisible God. As the way, he leads us to the Father. As the truth, he is the reality of all God’s promises. As the life, he joins his divine life to ours, both now and eternally.

Jesus Christ, being divine, was the only person who was ever born to die for us. Because of him, you and I will never die; believing in him, we will live forever with him in his Father’s mansion (John 3:16). The question that Philip asked, “Who is the Father; show us,” is answered by Jesus at that time and is being answered by him today.

Be still and listen to God speaking to you (Psalm 46:10) and you will hear him say, I love you, even when you were a sinner, I still decided to die for you (Rom. 5:8) because I simply love you. He is the way, the truth and the life. Let your life show others that this is true.

Application

The first reading tells us that we are to be servants of the Lord. The second reading calls us to be holy people, a people who care about others. In our Gospel, we are shown that only through Jesus can we be with the Father.

Let us, this week, practice this by being a servant to someone who is causing us some difficulty. Do not let the person know that you are making a special effort to serve him. Let your holiness be grounded in service and prayer this week. A suggested way might be to offer to help a family member with household chores or to help a co‑worker with some of his work.

Lectio Divina – John 10:1-10 – 4th Sunday of Easter

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John 10:1-10 – 4th Sunday of Easter

PURPOSE OF THIS SCRIPTURE READING – Develop a personal relationship with Jesus through the Word of God with the understanding that the Holy Spirit will teach and remind us of all Jesus said and did. Psalm 32:8 tells us, “I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk, give you counsel and watch over you.”

  1. Say the opening prayer
  2. Read the passage slowly three times as though Jesus were talking to you.
  3. Converse with Jesus, asking questions and listening to Him.

OPEN WITH THE FOLLOWING PRAYER:

Father, I can’t understand Your Word without Your grace, I acknowledge my weakness so Your power can reach perfection in me. Send Your Holy Spirit to remind, teach, and guide me to the Truth. May I share as soon as possible whatever You teach me. AMEN

 

READ, REFLECT AND WRITE – John 10:1-10, Jesus said: “Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever does not enter a sheepfold through the gate but climbs over elsewhere is a thief and a robber. But whoever enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gate keeper opens it for him, and the sheep hear his voice, as the shepherd calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has driven out all his own, he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they recognize his voice. But they will not follow a stranger; they will run away from him, because they do not recognize the voice of strangers.” Although Jesus used this figure of speech, the Pharisees did not realize what he was trying to tell them.

So Jesus said again, “Amen, amen, I say to you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. A thief comes only to steal and slaughter and destroy; I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.

  1. What is the Lord personally saying to you?
  2. What does the Lord personally want you to do?

Share your reflection with someone.