Author Archive: admin

TWENTY-FIFTH SUNDAY (Sept. 24th) IN ORDINARY TIME – CYCLE A

Posted on by

THE BREAD OF LIFE

CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

 

TWENTY-FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – 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 ISAIAH 55:6-9         FIRST READING

 

(“Let him turn to the Lord for mercy.”)

 

  1. Whom do we seek while he may be found? Isaiah 55:6

 

  1. What must we do while he is near? Isaiah 55:6

 

  1. With what must we seek the Lord? Jeremiah 29:13-14,

Deuteronomy 4:29

 

  1. What are we to let the scoundrel do, and the wicked

man?   Isaiah 55:7

 

  1. To whom must the scoundrel and the wicked turn, and what will be given to them?   Isaiah 55:7

 

  1. In what is our God generous? Isaiah 55:7

 

  1. What has the Lord done with our sins, and what is he asking us to do?   Isaiah 44:22

 

  1. What are the Lord’s thoughts and ways not like?

Isaiah 55:8

 

  1. As high as what are his ways above our ways and his

thoughts above our thoughts?   Isaiah 55:9

 

  1. What does God do, and what does he not do? Numbers    23:19

 

Personal – In what way have you experienced the greatness and mercy of God? In what way has he revealed to you that his way is far superior to the way you thought something should be done? What did you do when he revealed this to you?

 

 

THIRD DAY         READ PHILIPPIANS 1:20-24, 27    SECOND READING

 

(“For, to me, `life’ means Christ,

hence dying is so much gain.”)

 

  1. Who is writing this letter, and to whom is he writing?

Philippians 1:1

 

  1. What does Paul firmly trust and anticipate?      Philippians 1:20

 

  1. In what does he have full confidence? Philippians    1:20

 

  1. Of what does Paul not dare to speak when trying to win the Gentiles to obedience by word and deed?   Romans 15:18

 

  1. What does “life” mean to Paul, and what is dying?

Philippians 1:21

 

  1. What is the life Paul lives, of what is his human life, and in whom is his life?   Galatians 2:20

 

  1. If we are to go on living in the flesh, what does that

mean?   Philippians 1:22

 

  1. To what is Paul attracted, and from what does he long to be free? Philippians 1:23

 

  1. What is the more urgent, and for whose sake? Philippians 1:24

 

  1. How are we to conduct ourselves, and if we do this, what will be clear?   Philippians 1:27

 

Personal – What do you prefer, to live or die? Why? What spiritual insight has the Lord revealed to you personally in this reading? How can you apply it to your life?

 

FOURTH DAY            READ MATTHEW 20:1-16               GOSPEL

 

(“Thus the last shall be first and the first shall be last.”)

 

  1. The reign of God can be compared to the owner of an estate who went out at dawn to do what? What did he     reach with the workmen for the usual daily wage, and    then, what did he do? Matthew 20:1-2

 

  1. When the owner came out about midmorning, what did he see? What did he say to them? What did he say he would pay them?     Matthew 20:3-4

 

  1. What did the owner find at noon and mid-afternoon? What did he say to those he found in late afternoon?     Matthew   20:5-6

 

  1. What did they say to the owner, and what did he tell them to do? What did the owner of the vineyard say to    his foreman?   Matthew 20:7-8

 

  1. When those hired late in the afternoon came for their pay, what did they receive? What did the first group suppose? Matthew 20:9-10

 

  1. What did they receive, what was their complaint to the

owner, and what was his response?   Matthew 20:11-13

 

  1. What did the owner tell them to do, and what did he intend to do?   Matthew 20:14

 

  1. In Matthew 20:15, what two questions did he ask the workers?

 

  1. What do envy and anger do? Sirach 30:24

 

  1. How does God give to all? James 1:5

 

  1. Who will be first, and who will be last? Matthew     20:16

 

 

Personal – How do you see yourself, as the one receiving much for little done or as receiving little for much work done? How do you feel about this, and how do you deal with your feelings? Go to the Lord and repent of any envy you may have been holding. Seek the Sacrament of Reconciliation this week.

 

FIFTH DAY        READ PSALM 145: 2-3, 8-9, 17-18

 

(“The Lord is gracious and merciful.”)

 

Read and meditate on Psalm 145: 2-3, 8-9, 17-18.

 

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

 

ISAIAH 55:6-9

 

This passage tells us that first we seek his kingship and then all else will be added (Matt. 6:33). The desire to seek his will is a gift of grace from God. We are called to yield to that gift and then respond to it in faith. The Jews had a prayer called the “Shema” (Deut. 6:4-8) that supported this revelation.

 

We are called to relate the Word of God in our daily lives. God has emphasized the importance of parents to teach Scripture to their children. The church and Christian schools can not always be used to escape this responsibili­ty. Today eternal truths are most effectively learned in the loving environment of a God-fearing home, just as in the time of Moses.

 

Jesus tells us that loving God with all of our heart, soul and mind is the greatest command and to love our neighbor as ourself is the greatest rule of all. These two commands of his encompass all of Scripture.

 

We need to know, study and live out his daily Word so that our ways will be his ways. He will reveal his holy will to us, but we have to hunger and thirst to seek for him, for he is a gentle and loving God who seeks us more than we seek him. He stands always ready at the door to our heart, waiting for us to let him come in (Rev. 3:20).

 

What is really incredible is that he wants to come in and dine with us. In the early Bible days, the act of eating with someone was a very special sign of friendship. You did not eat with just anyone. Jesus wants to become intimate with us. He wishes to reside in our temple (1 Cor. 6:20). He rushes in and he does everything. All we have to do is open our hearts and let him in. That is why his thoughts and ways are not like ours, because he wants only to heal and love us.

 

PHILIPPIANS 1:20-24, 27

 

This was not to be Paul’s final imprisonment in Rome. He knew that he could be either released or executed, and it was in this atmosphere that he was filled with joy. The secret of Paul’s joy while in prison was his personal relationship with Jesus. Today people desperately want to be happy, but are tossed and turned by their daily successes, failures, and inconveniences. In other words, they are looking to the wrong source for their joy. To those who do not believe in God, life on earth is all there will be for them. So as the television commercial states, they go for the “gusto,” or try to get as much as they can as quickly as they can.

 

Paul saw life as developing eternal values and telling others about Jesus Christ, and this is what a messenger of the king is called to tell his people. We are that messenger. We are that prophet and like Paul, we will have to tell others that money, popularity, power and prestige are only temporary values in this world. Similar to Paul, we are to speak out boldly for Christ and to become more like him in the way we live out our daily lives.

 

Paul sees dying as more superior than living, because he knew that in death he would be spared from the troubles of the world and would see Christ face to face (1 John 3:2,3). To be ready to die is to be ready to live for Christ. It is only when we die to ourselves and put on the “mind of Christ” that we are really able to live (Phil. 2:5-11). Once we know our purpose in life is to love others as Christ has loved us, then we are free to serve. Then, and only then, can we devote our life to what really counts without the fear of dying.

 

MATTHEW 20: 1-16

 

Today’s Gospel is not concerned with rewards but with salvation. It is a powerful teaching about the incredible gift called grace that God gives to us. The story is not quite how we earn our way to heaven, because that would be impossible. Jesus clarified the membership rules of the kingdom of heaven. Entrance to heaven is by God’s grace alone.

 

In today’s story, God is the estate owner and the believers are those who work for him. In early Christianity there were many who felt superior because of heritage or favored positions, just as today. There were those who felt superior because they had spent so much time with Christ and knew so much about him. The message in this story was a reassurance of God’s grace to the new believers.

 

We should not resent anyone who turns to God in the last moments of life, because, in reality, no one deserves eternal life. Many people we do not expect to see may be in the Kingdom. The thief who repented on the cross will be next to Jesus (Luke 23:40-43) as well as the people who have believed and served God all of their lives.

 

Think for a moment about your life. Do you resent God for allowing all those outcasts and sinners into heaven, and those who turn to him at the last moment of their lives? Are you ever jealous of what God has given to someone else? I challenge you to reflect on God’s gracious gift of grace in your life. Focus on the benefits given to you and give praise and thanksgiving for what you have received. He has given you eternal life (John 3:16). He has loved you so much he died for you. He has given you another chance to love every time you begin a brand-new day.

 

If you do not have any friends, then invite him into your heart to be your friend. (John 15:13-15). He will change your life immediately, and you will, in return, change others with your joy and testimony (Matt. 28:19). Jesus is our owner, our shepherd, and our Savior, and he wants us to be healed and made whole (John 10:10).

 

The bottom line is – the generous gift of God’s grace and our follow through on it are what allows us to be eligible to enter heaven. The result of accepting that grace in faith will be shown by the way we live our lives on earth.

 

 

Application

 

The first reading tells us to first seek the kingship of God and then all else will be given unto you (Matt. 6:33). The second reading tells how personal relationships with Christ can bring joy and peace even in very difficult circumstances. The Gospel tells us how grace and our response to it bring us into heaven.

 

This week, show how you value yourself, your family, your school and your work associates by being very generous with your time, money, and talent. Some examples: Spend time with someone who is sick or lonely, financially help someone you know who is strug­gling, share with someone a talent or a gift that you have. Remember, grace is the presence of God in your relationship with others.

 

VIGESIMOCUARTO (Sept. 17th) DOMINGO DEL TIEMPO ORDINARIO – A

Posted on by

VIGESIMOCUARTO DOMINGO DEL TIEMPO ORDINARIO

 

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 ECLESIASTICO 27:30 – 28:7    PRIMERA LECTURA

(“Perdona los errores de tu prójimo.”)

 

  1. ¿Cuáles cosas son abominables y qué hace el pecador con ellas? Eclesiástico 27:30

 

  1. ¿Qué debes tener en mente, y qué no cumple la ira del hombre? Santiago 1:19-20

 

  1. ¿Qué sufrirá el vengador y por qué? Eclesiástico 28:1

 

  1. ¿Quién dice, “la venganza es mía: yo repagaré”? Romanos 12:19

 

  1. ¿Si perdonas la injusticia a tu prójimo, que te pasará cuando ores? Eclesiástico 28:2

 

  1. ¿Qué le dijo Jesús al Padre cuando estaba muriendo en la cruz? Lucas 23:34

 

  1. ¿En Quién te ha perdonado Dios? Efesios 4:32

 

  1. ¿Si una persona alimenta el enojo contra otra persona, qué puede esperar del Señor? Ecl. 28:3

 

  1. ¿Cuáles son las preguntas dadas en los versículos cuatro y cinco de Eclesiástico 28?

 

  1. ¿Qué debes recordar, qué debes dejar de hacer y qué debes cumplir? Eclesiástico 28:6

 

  1. ¿Qué no debes odiar, la alianza de quien debes recordar, y que debes dejar pasar?          Eclesiástico 28:7

 

Personal – Ora y pídele al Señor que te revele cualquier enojo que tal vez estés abrigando contra alguna persona.  Qué te dé la fuerza para perdonar cuando eres tratado(a) injustamente siendo inocente.

 

 

TERCER DIA                                        ROMANOS 14:7-9                 SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“Tanto en la vida como en la muerte, pertenecemos al Señor.”)

 

  1. ¿Qué no hace ninguno de nosotros? Romanos 14:7

 

  1. ¿Qué ejemplo nos dio Jesús para seguir en nuestro modo de vivir? ¿El servidor no es más grande que quién?  Juan 13:12-16

 

  1. ¿Mientras vivimos para quien vivimos? Romanos 14:8

 

  1. ¿Cuando morimos, para quién morimos? Romanos 14:8

 

  1. ¿A quién pertenecemos tanto en la vida como en la muerte? Romanos 14:8

 

  1. ¿Qué es el esclavo que fue llamado a creer en el Señor, y cómo hemos sido comprados?

1 Corintios 7:22-23

 

  1. ¿Por qué murió Cristo y volvió a la vida de nuevo? Romanos 14:9

 

  1. ¿Quién fue apartado por Dios para juzgar tanto a los vivos como a los muertos?

Hechos 10:36-42

 

  1. ¿Cómo es llamado el bendito y único regidor? 1 Timoteo 6:15

 

  1. ¿Qué debe proclamar cada lengua para la gloria de Dios el Padre? Fil. 2:11

 

Personal – ¿En qué forma te has sometido a nuestro Señor Jesucristo?  ¿Es sumisión total o parcial?  ¿Cómo se ha hecho visible esta sumisión para tu familia, amistades, compañeros de escuela, o conocidos en el trabajo?

 

CUARTO DIA                                         MATEO 18:21-35                                EVANGELIO

(“Mi Señor, ten paciencia conmigo y yo te pagaré todo.”)

 

 

  1. ¿Quién estaba hablando y qué le pidió al Señor? Mateo 18:21

 

  1. Cuando Jesús les dijo a Sus discípulos como oraran, ¿qué dijo El que hicieran concerniente al perdón? Mateo 6:12

 

  1. ¿Cuál fue la respuesta de Jesús para perdonar siete veces? Mateo 18:22

 

  1. ¿A qué puede ser comparado el reino de Dios? Mateo 18:23

 

  1. Mientras el Rey empezaba sus audiencias uno que le debía una gran cantidad de dinero fue traído adentro, ¿qué ordenó su patrón en pago de la deuda? Mateo 18:24-25

 

  1. ¿Qué hizo y dijo el oficial? Mateo 18:26

 

  1. ¿Con qué se compadeció el patrón, y que hizo? Mateo 18:27

 

  1. ¿Qué hizo el mismo oficial cuando se encontró a un compañero sirviente? Mateo 18:28

 

  1. ¿Qué hizo y dijo su compañero sirviente y qué hizo que hicieran con él? Mateo 18:29-30

 

  1. ¿Cuando sus compañeros sirvientes vieron lo que pasó, cuál fue su reacción a dónde fueron y qué hicieron? Mat. 18:31

 

  1. ¿Cuando su patrón lo mandó a buscar, qué le dijo? Mateo 18:32-33

 

  1. ¿Qué hizo él en su coraje? Mateo 18:34

 

  1. ¿Qué dijo Jesús que haría Su Padre celestial y que debemos hacer nosotros? Mateo 18:35

 

  1. ¿Qué penetra los pensamientos más íntimos? Hebreos 4:12

 

Personal – ¿Por cuál falta tuya murió Jesús en la cruz y te perdonó?  ¿Qué falta mayor necesitas perdonar en un hermano o hermana?  Sé especifico(a).

 

QUINTO DIA                                  LEE SALMO 103:1-4, 9-12

(“No nos trata según nuestros pecados.”)

 

Lee y medita en el Salmo 103:1-4, 9-12.

 

¿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

 

ECLESIASTICO 27:30-28:7

 

“Padre, perdónalos, porque no saben lo que hacen (Lucas 23:34)”.  Jesús le pidió a Su Padre que perdonara a la gente que lo estaba preparando para Su muerte.  Dios contestó esa oración abriendo el camino de salvación para todos.

El pasaje de ahora nos revela que la venganza es solamente del Señor (Romanos 12:19).  Se nos ha dicho que la piedad vendrá solamente para esos quienes demuestran piedad y que seremos perdonados por nuestros pecados en la misma medida que nosotros perdonemos a quien ha pecado contra nosotros.

Tú y yo no debemos rehusar la piedad a ninguna persona porque ya hemos sido perdonados por Jesucristo y Su muerte pagó el precio de nuestra redención.  Su sangre nos ha lavado.  Porque El nos ha perdonado, podemos perdonar a otros.  El dolor de ser lastimado(a) físicamente, emocionalmente, sexualmente o hasta espiritualmente, puede ser tan abrumador que parece que la venganza es más justificable.  A veces parece más lógico esconderse del dolor que hay adentro.

Permite que Jesús entre en tu corazón y mientras estás leyendo esto, déjalo ir al punto del dolor en todo tu ser.  Di, “Ven, Espíritu Santo, dame el poder de perdonar igual como lo hace mi hermano Jesús”.  El te sanará y renovará tu mente (Romanos 12:2).  El tomará residencia en tu corazón y te dará un corazón de carne en lugar de ese corazón de piedra.  El será tu roca, tu fortaleza, tu refugio (Salmo 91).  El ungirá tu cabeza con aceite sanador, y habitarás en Su casa para siempre (Salmo 23).

Aprenderás a dar piedad porque El reside en tu templo (1 Corintios 6:20).  Perdonarás a esos quienes te han dañado porque tú has sido perdonado(a) por todos tus pecados (Mat. 6:12).  Vamos a recordar ser prontos para escuchar, lentos para el enojo, y lentos para hablar (Santiago 1:19, 20).  Pues la cólera del hombre no demuestra la justicia del Señor.

 

 

 

ROMANOS 14:7-9

 

La única persona que nació para morir ha sido Jesucristo.  El vivió y murió por toda la humanidad. El murió por todos los pecadores en el mundo.  Su muerte pagó el precio que liberó a la humanidad de la esclavitud de Satanás.  No toda la humanidad decidió aceptar Su regalo increíble y como consecuencia miramos un tremendo conflicto entre lo bueno y lo malo.  Porque tanto amo Dios al mundo que le dio Su único Hijo, para que todo el que crea en El no se pierda, sino que tenga Vida Eterna (Juan 3:16).

Jesús nació para ser el servidor que sufriera por la humanidad y para ser su Señor y Salvador.  Hoy en día vemos mucha gente que vive su vida en la creencia de que son sus propios talentos y deseos los que determinan su destino.  Vemos muchas culturas que dicen que tienes que ser fuerte e independiente para salir adelante.  La humildad es confundida con la debilidad en muchas partes de nuestra sociedad.  El amor a Dios, familia y país es considerado por algunos(as) como una tontería sentimental.

Jesús nos llamó a ser lavadores de pies en el mundo (Juan 13:3-17).  El nos llamó a ser sirvientes para nuestros prójimos y a amarnos unos a los otros como El nos ha amado (Juan 13:34).  El nos dice que nuestra libertad ha sido comprada a un precio muy alto y ese precio fue Su sangre (1 Corintios 7:22-23).  El nos pide una sumisión a El y una sumisión de uno para con el otro.  Debemos pensar primero en los demás.

Debemos ponernos la mente de Cristo (Fil. 2:2-11).  Hemos sido llamados a vivir para Cristo porque El ha muerto por nosotros para que podamos vivir para siempre.  El es nuestro Señor y cuando nosotros muramos pasaremos la eternidad en Su presencia amorosa.

Yo los animo a que paren de hacer lo que están haciendo ahora, se arrodillen y confiesen que Jesucristo es el Señor de sus vidas.  El está de pie junto a la puerta de tu corazón.  Abre esa puerta e invítalo a pasar y déjalo que te sane ahora.  (Apocalipsis 3:20).

 

MATEO 18:21-35

 

En el Evangelio de hoy se nos dice que si no perdonamos a los que nos ofenden, tampoco Dios perdonará nuestras ofensas a El.  En los días de Cristo había una costumbre Judía que solo se perdonaba a alguien tres veces.  Era considerado perfectamente aceptable y se demandaba castigo en la cuarta ofensa.

Pedro pensó que él estaba siendo muy generoso sugiriendo perdonar a alguien siete veces.  El estaba asustado, al oír a Jesús decirle que debemos perdonar siempre, sin importar cuantas veces lo pidan.

La historia de ahora nos enseñó las serias consecuencias que esperaban a los que no podían pagar sus deudas.  No era raro ver un deudor permanecer el resto de su vida en la cárcel.  Piensa acerca de esto por un momento.  Ninguno de nosotros es capaz de pagar nuestra propia deuda a Dios.  Jesucristo murió por nosotros en la cruz y pagó el rescate por nuestros pecados con Su vida.  Si alguna vez fuéramos juzgados sobre que tan bien pagamos nuestra propia deuda, el cielo estaría vacío.

¿Cuántas veces le has pedido al Señor que te perdone y recibiste Su perdón en el hermoso sacramento de la reconciliación?  ¿Cuántas veces caíste en la seducción de la tentación?  Dios en su increíble misericordia no ha puesto límite en el número de veces que podemos caer.

El camino a la vida eterna estaría vacío y sería muy largo si Dios nos limitara únicamente a un número determinado de veces de ser perdonados.  Tenemos un Dios que nos ama tanto que está tocando en la puerta de nuestros corazones pacientemente, esperando a entrar y sanarnos al igual que perdonarnos (Apocalipsis 3:20).

Jesús nos está diciendo ahora que el perdón es una decisión y es una decisión de amar.  Jesús nos dice en la última oración de la parábola de hoy que Su Padre hará con nosotros lo que nosotros le hagamos a otros (Mat. 18:35).  Jesús mismo nos dice en la Escritura que lo que sea que hagamos al más pequeño de Sus hermanos, lo hacemos a El (Mat. 25:31-41).  Jesús mismo nos ha demostrado que Sus acciones apoyan Sus palabra.  Mientras moría en la cruz El miró arriba a Su Padre y dijo, “Padre, perdónalos, porque no saben lo que hacen.”  (Lucas 23:34)  Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo, hemos sido llamados hoy a hacer nada menos que lo mismo y eso es perdonar a los que nos han ofendido

 

Aplicación

 

La primera lectura nos enseña que la venganza es de Dios, no de nosotros.  La segunda lectura nos dice que la humildad es el carácter de Cristo.  El Evangelio revela que el perdón no es una opción para el Cristiano.  Es un requisito que ofrecemos a otros de la misma manera que Dios nos lo ofrece a nosotros.

Toma tiempo esta semana para ir con un miembro de la familia, amistad, o compañero del trabajo contra quien guardas un resentimiento.  Pídeles que te perdonen por ello.  Pide perdón por haberte quedado con ese resentimiento, amargura, o falta de perdón hacía ellos.  Recuerda, por medio del perdón viene el alivio.

 

TWENTY-FOURTH SUNDAY (Sept. 17th) IN ORDINARY TIME – CYCLE A

Posted on by

THE BREAD OF LIFE

CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

 

TWENTY-FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – 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 SIRACH 27:30-28:7       FIRST READING

 

(“Forgive your neighbor’s injustice.”)

 

  1. What are hateful things, and what does the sinner do with them?   Sirach 27:30

 

  1. What are we to keep in mind, and what does man’s anger not fulfill?   James 1:19-20

 

  1. What will the vengeful suffer, and for what reason?

Sirach 28:1

 

  1. Who says, “Vengeance is mine: I will repay? “

Romans 12:19

 

  1. If we forgive our neighbor’s injustice, what will happen when we pray?   Sirach 28:2

 

  1. What did Jesus say to the Father as he was dying on

the cross?   Luke 23:34

 

  1. In whom has God forgiven us? Ephesians 4:32

 

  1. If a person nourishes anger against another person, what can he expect from the Lord?   Sirach 28:3

 

  1. What are the questions asked in verses four and five of Sirach 28?

 

  1. What are we to set aside, what are we to remember, and

from what are we to cease?   Sirach 28:6

 

  1. Who are we not to hate, whose covenant are we to remember, and what are we to overlook?   Sirach 28:7

 

 

Personal – Pray and ask the Lord to reveal to you any anger you may be harboring against anyone. What gives you the strength to forgive when you were innocent and unjustly treated?

 

 

THIRD DAY              READ ROMANS 14:7-9         SECOND READING

 

(“While we live we are responsible to the Lord.”)

 

  1. What does not one of us do? Romans 14:7

 

  1. What example did Jesus give us to follow on how to live, and what is no slave greater than?   John 13:12- 16

 

  1. While we live, to whom are we responsible? Romans    14:8

 

  1. When we die, as what do we die? Romans 14:8

 

  1. To whom do we belong in both life and death?

Romans 14:8

 

  1. The slave called in the Lord is what, and how have we been bought? 1 Corinthians 7:22-23

 

  1. Why did Christ die and come to life again? Romans    14:9

 

  1. Who is set apart by God to judge both the living and the dead?   Acts 10:36-42

 

  1. What is the blessed and only ruler called?

1 Timothy 6:15

 

  1. What must every tongue proclaim to the glory of God the Father?   Philippians 2:11

 

 

Personal – In what way have you submitted to the Lordship of Jesus Christ? Is it partial or total submission? How has this submission been visible to your family, friends, schoolmates, or work acquaintances?

 

 

FOURTH DAY            READ MATTHEW 18:21-35              GOSPEL

 

(“My Lord, be patient with me and I will pay back in full.”)

 

  1. Who was speaking, and what did he ask the Lord?

Matthew 18:21

 

  1. When Jesus told his disciples how to pray, what did he say to do regarding forgiveness?   Matthew 6:12

 

  1. What was Jesus’ reply to forgiving seven times?

Matthew 18:22

 

  1. To what may the reign of God be compared? Matthew    18:23

 

  1. As the king began his auditing one was brought in who owed him a huge amount of money, what did his master order in payment of the debt?   Matthew 18:24-25

 

  1. What did the official do and say? Matthew 18:26

 

  1. With what was the master moved, and what did he do?

Matthew 18:27

 

  1. What did that same official do when he met a fellow servant?       Matthew 18:28

 

  1. What did his fellow servant do and say, and what did he have done with him?   Matthew 18:29-30

 

  1. When his fellow servants saw what had happened, what was their reaction, where did they go, and what did    they do?   Matthew 18:31

 

  1. When his master sent for him, what did he say to him?

Matthew 18:32-33

 

  1. What did he do in anger? Matthew 18:34

 

  1. What did Jesus say his Heavenly Father would do, and

what are we to do?   Matthew 18:34-35

 

  1. What judges the thoughts and reflections of the heart?

Hebrews 4:12

 

 

Personal – For what major flaw in you did Jesus die on the cross and forgive you? What major flaw do you need to forgive in a brother or sister? Be specific.

 

FIFTH DAY           READ PSALM 103:1-4, 9-12

 

(“Not according to our sins does he deal with us.”)

 

Read and meditate on Psalm 103:1-4, 9-12.

 

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

 

SIRACH 27:30-28:7

 

“Father, forgive these people, they do not know what they are doing (Luke 23:34).” Jesus asked his Father to forgive the people who were putting him to death. God answered that prayer by opening up the way of salvation to everyone.

 

Today’s passage reveals to us that vengeance for us comes from the Lord only (Romans 12:19). We are told that mercy will come only to those who show mercy and that we will be pardoned for our sins in the same measure that we pardon those who have sinned against us.

 

You and I do not ever have to refuse mercy to anyone, because we have been forgiven by Jesus Christ whose death paid the price of our redemption. His blood has washed us clean.

 

Because he has forgiven us, we can forgive others. The pain of being hurt physically, emotionally, sexually, or even spiritually, can be so devastating that it seems vengeance is more justifiable. Sometimes it seems more logical just to run away from the pain inside.

 

As you are reading this, let Jesus come into your heart and let him go to the point of the pain in your entire being. Say, “Come, Holy Spirit, give me the power to forgive as my brother Jesus forgives.” He will heal you and renew your mind (Romans 12:2). He will take up residence in your heart and he will give you a heart of flesh in place of that heart of stone. He will be your rock, your fortress, your refuge (Psalm 91). He will anoint your head with healing oil, and you will dwell in his house forever (Psalm 23).

 

We will learn to give mercy because he resides in our temple (1 Corinthians 6:20). We will pardon those who have injured us because we have been pardoned for all of our sins (Matt. 6:12). Let us remember to be quick to hear, slow to anger, and slow to speak (James 1:19, 20) for the wrath of a man does not show righteousness to God.

 

ROMANS 14:7-9

 

The only person who was ever born to die for us was Jesus Christ. He lived and died for all mankind. He died for all of the sinners in the world. His death paid the price that freed humanity from the bondage of Satan. All mankind did not decide to accept his incredible gift, and consequently, we see a tremendous conflict between good and evil. For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16).

 

Jesus was born to be the suffering servant of mankind and to be its Lord and Savior. Today we see many people who live in the belief that it is their own talents and drive that deter­mines their fate. We see many cultures who claim we have to be tough and independent to get ahead. Meekness is confused with weakness in many parts of our society. Love of God, family and country is considered by some to be sentimental foolishness.

 

Jesus called us to be foot washers in the world (John 13:3-17). He called us to be servants to our neighbors and to love one another as he has loved us (John 13:34). He tells us our freedom has been bought at a high price, and that price was his blood (1 Corinthians 7:22-23). He calls from us a submission to him and a sub-mission to one another. We are to think of others first.

 

We are to put on the mind of Christ (Phil 2:2-11). We are called to live for Christ because he has died for us so that we might live forever. He is our Lord and when we die we will spend eternity in his loving presence.

 

I encourage you to stop what you are doing right now, get down on your knees, and confess that Jesus Christ is the Lord of your life. He stands at the door of your heart. Open that door and invite him in, and let him heal you today (Rev. 3:20).

 

MATTHEW 18:21-35

 

We are told in today’s Gospel that if we do not forgive those who have offended us, neither will God forgive us of our offenses to him. In the days of Christ there was a Jewish custom that a person had to forgive someone only three times for having offended you. It was considered acceptable to demand punishment on the fourth offense.

 

Peter thought he was being very generous by suggesting to forgive someone seven times. He was startled to hear Jesus tell him that, in effect, we should always forgive those who repentant, no matter how many times they ask.

 

Today’s story tells us the serious consequences that awaited those who could not repay their debts. It was not uncommon to see a debtor remain in prison for the remainder of his life. Think about that for a moment. Not one of us is capable of paying off our own debt to God. Jesus Christ had to die on the cross for us, and he paid the ransom for our sins with his life. If we were at any time to be judged as to how well we paid off our own debts, heaven would be empty.

 

How many times have you asked the Lord to forgive you and you received his forgiveness in the beautiful Sacrament of Reconciliation? How many times did you then go on to fall to the seduction of temptation. God, in his incredible mercy, has put no limit on the number of times we are allowed to fall.

 

The road to eternal life would be empty and very long if God limited us to only a limited number of times to be forgiven. We have a God who loves us so much that he stands knocking at the door to our hearts, patiently waiting to come in to heal us as well as to forgive us (Rev 3:20).

 

Today, Jesus impresses us with the fact that forgiveness is a decision, and it is a decision to love. Jesus tells us in the last sentence of today’s parable that his Father will do to us what we do to others (Matt. 18:35). Jesus tells us in Scripture that whatever we do to the least of his brothers, we do unto him (Matt. 25:31-41).

 

Jesus has shown us that his actions back up his words. While dying on the cross he looked up at his Father and said, “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34) My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, we are called today to do no less, and that is to forgive others who have offended us.

 

Application

 

The first reading shows us that vengeance comes from God, not from us. The second reading tells us that humility belongs to the character of Christ. The Gospel reveals that forgiveness is not an option for the Christian, it is a requirement that we extend it to others as God has extended it to us.

 

This week, approach a family member, friend, or co-worker against whom you hold a grudge, and ask them to forgive you. Holding on to any resentment, bitterness or unforgiveness towards them is what you ask in forgiveness. Remember, through forgiveness comes healing.

 

 

VIGESIMOTERCER (Sept. 10th) DOMINGO DEL TIEMPO ORDINARIO – A

Posted on by

VIGESIMOTERCER DOMINGO DEL TIEMPO ORDINARIO

 

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                                     EZEQUIEL 33: 7-9                PRIMERA LECTURA

(“A ti, hijo de hombre, yo te he puesto por centinela de la gente de Israel.”)

 

  1. ¿Para quién viene la palabra del Señor y quién ha sido designado como centinela de la casa de Israel?  Ezequiel 1:3, 3:17 y 33:7

 

  1. ¿Qué es lo que Ezequiel tiene que hacer por el Señor? Ezequiel 33:7

 

  1. Si el Señor le dice al hombre malo que ciertamente morirá ¿qué debía hacer Ezequiel y que pasará al hombre malo? Ezequiel 33:8

 

  1. ¿Quién será hecho responsable por la muerte del malo? Ezequiel 33:8

 

  1. ¿Qué pasará si tú no hablas? Salmo 32:3

 

  1. ¿Qué pasa al hombre malo y cómo se le paga? Isaías 3:11

 

  1. ¿Cuál es aquel que morirá? Ezequiel 18:20

 

  1. ¿Cómo debes advertir al malo? Ezequiel 33:9

 

  1. ¿Si el rehúsa hacerlo que le pasará y que te pasará a ti? Ezequiel 33:9

 

  1. ¿Qué clase de Dios tenemos nosotros? Salmo 7:12

 

Personal – ¿Qué les dices a los de tu casa cuando ves que hacen mal?  ¿Qué crees que te pasará si permaneces en silencio y estás viendo a los de tu alrededor que son pecadores?

 

TERCER DIA                                       ROMANOS 13:8-10                   SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“Amarás a tu prójimo como a ti mismo.”)

 

  1. ¿Qué es lo que no debemos deber a nadie y cuál es la única excepción a esto? Romanos 13:8

 

  1. ¿Con qué ha cumplido el que ama a su prójimo? Romanos 13:8

 

  1. ¿Cuál es la virtud que vincula a todos y los hace perfectos? Colosenses 3:14

 

  1. ¿Qué es resumir todo en “Amarás a tu prójimo como a ti mismo?” Romanos 13:9

 

  1. ¿Qué nos dio Jesús y como debemos amarnos los unos a los otros? Juan 13:34

 

  1. ¿Cómo debemos tratar a los otros? Mateo 7:12

 

  1. ¿Qué no debemos guardar en nuestro corazón en contra de nuestro hermano, que no debemos cometer y fomentar en contra de nuestros compatriotas? Levítico 19:17-18

 

  1. ¿Qué es lo que el amor nunca hace y en qué cabe todo el cumplimiento de la ley?           Romanos 13:10

 

  1. ¿Cómo es el amor y qué es lo que no hace? 1 Corintios 13:4-7

 

  1. ¿Quién es nuestro prójimo? Lucas 10:25-37 concentrándose en los versículos 36-37.

 

Personal – ¿Has visto a alguien necesitado esta semana, como has respondido a esa necesidad?  ¿De qué modo amas a tu prójimo?  Cada día de esta semana anota una vez en la que hayas amado a tu prójimo.

 

CUARTO DIA                                         MATEO 18:15-20                                EVANGELIO

(“Si tu hermano ha pecado contra ti, anda a hablar con él.”)

 

  1. ¿Si tu hermano cometiera algo incorrecto en tu contra, qué debes hacer? Mateo 18:15

 

  1. ¿Quién dijo Jesús que eran para El, su hermano, su hermana y su madre? Marcos 3:35

 

  1. ¿Después que un hermano ha hecho algo en tu contra, ¿qué ganas tu si él te escucha? ¿Si no te escucha qué debes hacer y por qué?  Mateo 18:15-16

 

  1. ¿Qué es lo que dicta la ley? Juan 8:17

 

  1. Si tu hermano ignora a los otros que has reunido, ¿a quién has de referirlo? Mateo 18:17

 

  1. Si tu hermano que ha hecho mal, ignora a la iglesia ¿cómo debes tratarlo? Mateo 18:17

 

  1. ¿A quién no debemos preocuparnos en juzgar y que pasará a aquellos que teniendo el título de hermanos son inmorales? 1 Corintios 5:9-13

 

  1. ¿Cómo será declarado lo que declaremos atado en la tierra y lo que declaremos desatado, cómo será tomado en el cielo? Mateo 18:18

 

Personal – ¿Cómo has tratado a alguien que ha hecho algo equivocado en tu contra, en     comparación de lo que nos dice la escritura anterior?

 

  1. ¿Qué dice Jesús que pasará si dos de ustedes se unen en oración en la tierra para pedir cualquier cosa? Mateo 18:19

 

  1. ¿Qué debes hacer para recibir cualquier cosa del Señor? Mateo 7:7 y Juan 15:7

 

  1. ¿Quién está presente cuando dos o tres se reúnen en Su nombre? Mateo 18:20

 

Personal – ¿Con quién has unido tu voz esta semana y cuál ha sido el resultado?

 

QUINTO DIA                                    LEE SALMO 95:1-2, 6-9

(“Cantemos a la Roca que nos salva.”)

 

Lee y medita en el Salmo 95:1-2, 6-9.

 

¿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

 

EZEQUIEL 33:7-9

 

Este pasaje nos dice que Dios nos hará responsables si no hablamos en su nombre a esos que violan Sus enseñanzas.  No podemos decir que no es nuestra responsabilidad o que yo no soy apto para hablar. Ezequiel nos dice que Dios nos ha llamado para prevenir al hombre malo de sus acciones equivocadas o si no cargaremos la responsabilidad de su muerte.

Hoy en día es muy usual voltearse para el otro lado cuando se trata de lo que está mal hecho.  Una de las mayores filosofías de hoy en día parece ser, si no me afecta a mí para que me quejo.  La proporción de crímenes en muchos países es de asustarse; el derrumbamiento de la familia está casi aceptado como precio del progreso.  Hay una tremenda ganancia financiera hoy en día en el área de la pornografía, pornografía con niños, prostitución, drogas, fumar, alcohol, y aborto.

Se nos ha dicho que sostener al pecado es la muerte (Romanos 6:23) y sin embargo parece que estamos increíblemente callados en lo que se refiere a nuestra respuesta Cristiana a esta barrera de inmundicia.  La esencia de todo pecado está en nosotros mismos y es la gratificación de si mismo la que está derrumbando los países.  El resultado del pecado es la muerte y si no lo crees mira a tu alrededor y ve los efectos del pecado.  La muerte y los horrores del SIDA, el resultado de las drogas y la homosexualidad que se van pasando aún a victimas inocentes en transfusiones de sangre.  Están naciendo niños que llevan consigo la terrible enfermedad sin tener la falta en si mismos, pero es la falta de alguien más.

La cantidad de abortos ha subido a 70 millones al año.  Tiene que haber un hasta aquí a los millones de personas que se vuelven como cadáveres bajo la influencia de las drogas y el alcohol.  Los cigarros matan más gente que las drogas y el alcohol combinados y aun así hay silencio en el mundo Cristiano.  El silencio indica a muchos un grado de aceptación de la situación.

Rezo para que hables en el nombre de Jesús y te proteja de lo que esté mal en tu corazón, tu familia, tu comunidad y tu país.

 

ROMANOS 13:8-10

 

San Pablo nos llama a tener un sentido completo de libertad en cuanto a no deberle nada a ningún hombre excepto el amor.  Dios nos da su mandamiento, “Ámense unos a otros como yo les he amado”. (Juan 13:34).  Jesús fue más allá cuando nos dijo a todos que amemos a Dios con todo nuestro corazón, mente y espíritu y después amar a nuestro prójimo como a nosotros mismos.

Para mucha gente hoy en día eso no es mucho, especialmente cuando la estimación propia, la imagen de si mismo o el amor propio no han sido establecidos.  Hay millones de personas por ahí que no sienten que valen mucho o que no valen la pena de ser amados.  Jesús sabe esto y por eso El nos dice, “Ámense unos a otros como Yo los he amado”.  Tú eres tan estimado, tan valioso, que Dios mandó a Su único hijo a morir en la cruz en el Calvario solo por ti.

Jesús te ama completamente, incondicionalmente y te ama exactamente ahí donde estas hoy.  La parte increíble de esta declaración es que El te ama tanto que te deja ser así como eres.  El te transformará si tú lo dejas.  El está tocando en este momento la puerta de tu corazón mientras estas leyendo este estudio (Apocalipsis 3:20).  Imagina un cuadro donde se muestra a Jesús tocando a la puerta y verás algo muy impresionante.  No hay manija en la puerta; ¡ésta solo se abre por adentro!  El te amará con amor imperecedero.  La gente muere simplemente por que no sabe quien es El y como es Su amor.  (Oséas 4:6)

Se nos ha dicho que Dios es amor y que nosotros lo amamos por que nos hemos dado cuenta de que El nos amó primero.  Dios es amor y el amor es paciente, el amor es amable, el amor aguanta todo, el amor lo cree todo, el amor es esperanza, el amor lo soporta todo y el amor es el cumplimiento de la Ley.  Jesús nos dice que si vivimos en El y guardamos Sus mandamientos, entonces El vivirá en nosotros (Juan 15:7). Amar a tu prójimo como a ti mismo realmente significa que Dios te amo tanto que hasta murió por ti; y nosotros tenemos que morir (negarnos) a nosotros mismos y estar dispuestos a hacer lo que sea para ayudar a cualquiera que lo necesite.

 

MATEO 18:15-20

 

El mensaje del Evangelio nos dice hoy que debemos ir con nuestro hermano y mostrarle su falta, su pecado en contra nuestra.  Muchos preguntan, ¿quién es mi hermano?  Jesús nos dice en la escritura que todo el que hace la voluntad de Su Padre, es su hermano, hermana y madre (Marcos 3:35).  Puedes amorosamente

confrontar a tu hermano o hermana en Cristo, pero debes hacerlo en privado.  Una herida supurará si no es atendida inmediatamente.  Si eres escuchado sabrás que el problema no estriba en ti y eso te permitirá perdonar a esa persona.

Muchas amarguras y creciente división entre Cristianos hoy en día es causada por malos entendidos. Se nos ha dicho en la escritura que seremos insultados a causa de nuestras creencias Cristianas y nuestra conducta y por eso debemos dar gracias a Dios mismo (1 Pedro 4:16).  No estamos llamados a juzgar a los paganos o incrédulos, sino a confrontar a nuestros “hermanos en el Señor” que estén viviendo en pecado. Esto solo puede hacerse con amor y de acuerdo con las escrituras.

Jesús mismo nos dice que ni siquiera nuestro amor a la familia debe interponerse entre El y nosotros. Jesús también nos dice que Su presencia está siempre en medio de nosotros y siempre que nos unamos para hacer oración en Su nombre, nuestra petición será honrada por Su Padre en el cielo.  Necesitamos recordar que orar en Su nombre significa estar completamente inmersos en El.  Su Nombre es todopoderoso, todo lo sabe y todo lo sana y la escritura nos dice que todos se arrodillen y toda lengua proclame que Jesucristo es el Señor (Filipenses 2:11).  Orar en Su nombre significa haber liberado todo lo que no se había perdonado a alguien.  Significa confesar todos los pecados en los que nos hemos obstinado.  Orar en Su nombre significa quitar todo lo que este bloqueándonos de ser sanados dentro de nosotros mismos.

Entonces cuando oremos en Su nombre, cualquier cosa que atemos en la tierra será atada en el cielo y cualquier cosa que desatemos en la tierra será desatada en el cielo (Mateo 19:18).  Entonces en el nombre de Jesús podremos atar la maldad que haya en nuestros hermanos pecadores y en el nombre de Jesús soltar sobre esa persona el poder del Espíritu Santo.  La alegría, paz, amor y el Espíritu Santo traen todo ese poder celestial y la fe.  En el nombre de Jesús se obtiene el honor y la gloria del Padre.  Podemos ser oradores esperanzados cada vez que oremos en el nombre de Jesús pues tenemos Su Palabra (Mateo 18:19-20).

 

Aplicación

La primera lectura nos enseña que somos responsables de hablar con fe y que estamos llamados a dirigirnos a la persona que está en pecado y hacerle notar sus acciones.  La segunda lectura nos dice que el amor no es amor hasta que es dado a otros libremente y sin ninguna condición.  El Evangelio nos dice que confrontemos amorosamente uno al otro en el nombre de Jesús cuando estemos fuera de orden.

Esta semana habla amorosa pero francamente y en privado a alguno de tus seres queridos que no esté caminando con el Señor.  Recuerda, tu silencio puede indicar que estás de acuerdo con las acciones de esa persona.

 

TWENTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – CYCLE A

Posted on by

THE BREAD OF LIFE

CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

 

TWENTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – 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 EZEKIEL 33:7-9         FIRST READING

 

(“You, son of man, I have appointed watchman

for the house of Israel.”)

 

  1. To whom did the Word of the Lord come, and who has been appointed watchman for the house of Israel?

Ezekiel 1:3 3:17, and 33:7

 

  1. What is Ezekiel to do for the Lord? Ezekiel 33:7

 

  1. If the Lord tells the wicked man that he shall surely die, that was Ezekiel to do, and what will happen to the wicked man? Ezekiel 33:8

 

  1. Who will be held responsible for the death of the wicked man?   Ezekiel 33:8

 

  1. What will happen if we do not speak out? Psalm 32:3

 

  1. What happens to the wicked man, and how is he repaid?

Isaiah 3:11

 

  1. Who is the one who shall die? Ezekiel 18:20

 

  1. How are we to warn the wicked man? Ezekiel 33:9

 

  1. If he refuses to do this, what will happen to him, and

what will happen to us?   Ezekiel 33:9

 

  1. What kind of a God do we have? Psalm 7:12

 

 

Personal – What do you say to those you see doing wrong within your household? What do you think will happen to you if you remain silent when you see those around you being sinful?

 

 

THIRD DAY              READ ROMANS 13:8-10        SECOND READING

 

(“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”)

 

  1. What are we not to owe anyone, and what exception is there to this?   Romans 13:8

 

  1. What has he who loves his neighbor done? Romans 13:8

 

  1. What is the virtue that binds all the rest together and makes them perfect?   Colossians 3:14

 

  1. What is all summed up in “You shall love your neighbor

as yourself?”  Romans 13:9

 

  1. What did Jesus give us, and how are we to love one

another?   John 13:34

 

  1. How are we to treat others? Matthew 7:12

 

  1. What are we not to bear in our heart against our brother, and what are we not to take and cherish against our fellow countrymen?   Leviticus 19:17-18

 

  1. What does love never do, and what is the fulfillment

of the law?   Romans 13:10

 

  1. What is love, and what does it not do? 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

 

  1. Who is our neighbor? Luke 10:25-37, concentrating

on verses 36-37

 

Personal – Have you seen anyone in need this week, and how did you respond to that need? In what way have you loved your neighbor? Write down a time you loved your neighbor each day this week.

 

 

FOURTH DAY            READ MATTHEW 18:15-20              GOSPEL

 

(“If your brother should commit a crime against you,

go and point out his fault,”)

 

  1. If our brother should commit some wrong against us, what are we to do?   Matthew 18:15

 

  1. Who did Jesus say were brother, sister, and mother to him? Mark 3:35

 

  1. After going to our brother who has wronged us, what

have we done if he listens. If he does not listen,     what should we do, and for what reason?   Matthew      18:15-16

 

  1. What is laid down in the law? John 8:17

 

  1. If our brother ignores the others we have summoned, to

whom do we refer him?   Matthew 18:17

 

  1. If the brother who committed the wrong ignores the church, how should we treat him?   Matthew 18:17

 

  1. Whom do we have no business judging, what should happen to those who bear the title “brother” and who is immoral? l Corinthians 5:9-13

 

  1. Whatever we declare bound on earth shall be declared what, and whatever we declare loosed on earth shall be      held what in heaven?   Matthew 18:18

 

 

Personal – How have you dealt with someone who has wronged you, in comparison to the above scripture?

 

 

  1. What does Jesus say will happen if two of you join your voices on earth to pray for anything whatsoever?

Matthew 18:19

 

  1. What must we do in order to receive anything from the Lord? Matthew 7:7, John 15:7

 

  1. Who is present when two or three are gathered in his name? Matthew 18:20

 

Personal – With whom have you joined your voice in prayer this week, and what has been the result?

 

 

FIFTH DAY            READ PSALM 95:1-2, 6-9

 

(“Let us acclaim the rock of our salvation.”)

 

Read and meditate on Psalm 95: 1-2, 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

 

EZEKIEL 33:7-9

 

This passage tells us that God will hold us responsible for not speaking out in defense of his name to those who violate his teachings. We cannot say that it is not our responsibility to speak out because we are not qualified. Ezekiel tells us that God has called us to warn the wicked man of his wrong doings or to face up to the responsibility of his death.

 

Today there is a strong emphasis to turn the other way concerning wrong doing. A major philosophy of today seems to be, that if it does not affect me, why should I complain. For example: the rate of crime is staggering in many countries; the breakdown of the family is accepted as a price of progress. A tremendous financial profit is being made today in the areas of pornography, child pornography, prostitution, drugs, alcohol, smoking, and abortion.

 

Scripture tells us the wages of sin are death (Rom. 6:23), yet we remain incredibly silent with our Christian response to this barrage of filth. The essence of all sin is self, and it is the gratification of self that is tearing countries apart. The result of sin is death, and if we do not believe this, take a look around our communities and see the effects of sin. Many times the deaths and horror from AIDS are the results of drugs and immorality that can be passed on even to innocent victims in blood transfusions. Children are born infected with the dreaded disease through no fault of their own.

 

The rate of abortions has climbed to about 70 million a year worldwide. There has to be an end to the millions of people becoming zombies through the use of drugs and alcohol. Cigarettes kill more people than drugs and alcohol combined, and yet there is a silence in the Christian world. Silence indicates to many a degree of acceptance of the conditions.

 

I pray that you speak out in the name of Jesus and protest the wrongdoing that is going on in your own heart, your family, your community and your country.

 

ROMANS 13:8-10

 

St. Paul calls us to a complete sense of freedom in that we owe no man anything except our love. Jesus gives us his command­ment, “Love one another as I have loved you.”(John 13:34). Jesus went further when he tells us all to love God with our whole heart, mind, and spirit and to love our neighbor as ourselves.

To many people today that does not offer much, especially when self-esteem, self-image or self-love have never been established. There are millions of people walking around who do not feel that self-worth or feel they are worthy of being loved. Jesus knows that and consequently he said, “Love one another as I have loved you.” You are so precious, and so valuable, that God sent his only begotten son to die on the cross at Calvary just for you.

 

Jesus loves us completely and unconditionally, and he loves us wherever we are. The incredible part of this statement is that he loves us to the extent that he will not leave us as we are. He will transform you if you will let him. Right now he is knocking at the door of your heart while you are reading this study (Rev. 3:20). Try to look for a picture showing Jesus knocking on the door and you will see something very powerful. There is no door handle on the door; it opens only from within. He will love you with an everlasting love. People perish simply because of the lack of knowledge of who he is and of his great love for them (Hosea 4:6).

 

We are told that God is love and that we love him because we learn that he has loved us first. God is love. Love is patient. Love is kind. Love bears all things. Love believes all things. Love is hope. Love endures all things, and love is the fulfillment of the law. Jesus tells us that if we live in him and keep his command­ments, then he will live in us (John 15:7). To love your neighbors as yourself really means that God loved you so much that he died for you. We have to die to ourselves and be willing to do whatever it takes to help anyone who is in need of God’s love and mercy.

 

MATTHEW 18:15-20

 

The Gospel message tells us today that we are to go to our brother and tell him of his fault of sinning. Many ask today, “Who is my brother?” Jesus tells us in scripture that all who do the will of his Father are his brother, sister and mother (Mark 3:35). You can lovingly confront our brother or sister in Christ, if they are suffering or in pain but it should be done privately. (A wound will fester if it is not tended or healed right away.) If they listened to you and the problem is not resolved, then you know that the problem does not lie with you, it allows you to forgive that person so that he may become healed.

 

Today, bitterness and divisiveness rage among Chris­tians because of misunderstandings. We are told in Scripture that we will be insulted because of our Christian beliefs and conduct and whoever is called on to suffer should not be ashamed but to give thanks and glory to God (1 Peter 4:16). We are not called to judge the pagans or unbelievers, rather we are called to confront the “brother in the Lord” who is living in sin. This can be done only in love and in accordance with Scripture.

 

esus tells us that even our love of family is not to come between him and ourselves. Also Jesus tells us that he is always present in our midst. Whenever we come together to pray in his name, our requests will be honored by his Father in heaven. We need to remember that to pray in his name means to be completely immersed in prayer with him. His name is all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-healing. Scripture tells us that every knee shall bend and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Phil. 2:11). To pray in his name means to have released all unforgiveness toward others. It means to confess all unrepented sins. To pray in his name means to remove all the blocks towards healing within ourselves.

 

When we pray in his name, whatever we bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever we loose on earth will be loosed in heaven (Matt. 19:18). Then in Jesus’ name we can bind the evil in one of our sinful brothers, and in Jesus’ name loose upon that person the power of the Holy Spirit. Joy, peace, love – the Holy Spirit brings all that heavenly power and faith. In Jesus’ name the honor and glory of the Father are accomplished. We can be an expectant pray-er every time we pray in Jesus’ name because we have his Word on it (Matthew 18:19-20).

 

 

Application

 

The first reading tells us that we are responsible for speaking out in faith, and we are called to address the sinful actions of others. The second reading tells us that love is not love until it is freely given away to others, without any condi­tions. The Gospel tells us to confront one another lovingly in the name of Jesus when their conduct is out of order.

 

This week, speak lovingly but frankly and privately, to one of your loved ones who is not walking with the Lord. Remember, your silence may indicate that you agree with that person’s actions.

 

Lectio Divina – 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time – A

Posted on by

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 ON THE GOSPEL OF THE DAY

Matthew 18:15-20 – Jesus said to His disciples: “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother. If he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, so that ‘every fact may be established on the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If he refuses to listen to them, tell the church. If he refuses to listen even to the church, then treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax collector. Amen, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again, amen, I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”

 

  1. What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Share your reflection with someone.