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FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT ‑ CYCLE A

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FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT ‑ 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 2:1‑5         FIRST READING

(“Come, let us climb the Lord’s mountain.”)

  1. Who saw something concerning Judah and Jerusalem and whose son was he?   Isaiah 2:1

 

  1. What will happen to the mountain of the Lord’s house, who will come towards it, and when will this happen?   Isaiah 2:2

 

  1. What will the people say who come to it? Isaiah 2:3

 

  1. Who is to instruct us in his ways, in whose paths are we to walk, and from where will instruction come?   Isaiah 2:3

 

  1. Where is Zion? 1 Kings 8:1, Joel 4:17, 21

 

  1. In days to come, from where will the Word of the Lord come? Isaiah 2:3

 

  1. Where does the Word of God come from today? John 1:1,14

 

  1. How do we know he is speaking to us if he is not walking and talking with us as he did with the apostles two thousand years ago?   John 16:7

 

  1. In days to come, how will there be a judgment? And what will end? Isaiah 2:4

 

  1. What are we to walk in and who is the light of the world?    Isaiah 2:5, John 8:12

 

Personal – How are you anticipating with joy our Lord’s coming? Do your family and friends know that Jesus will come again? How are you preparing for his coming and how is your family preparing for it?

 

THIRD DAY             READ ROMANS 13:11‑14      SECOND READING

(“Let us cast off deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.”)

  1. What is the summation of all the commandments? Romans 13:9-10

 

  1. When should we wake from sleep? Romans 13:11

 

  1. When will our salvation be completed? Revelations 1:7, 1 Thessalonians 5:2

 

  1. What does it mean to “accept the faith? ” Write out the following verses

John 3:16

John 14:6

  1. What does verse 12 of Romans 13 say about the day and night, what must we cast off and what must we put on? Romans 13:12

 

  1. What is the armor of light? (Light representing Jesus, John 8:12) List all of the armor that we are to put on:

Ephesians 6:10-17

Helmet ‑

Breastplate ‑

Belt  ‑

Footgear ‑

Shield ‑

Sword ‑

  1. According to Romans how are we to live and how are we not to live? Romans 13:13

 

Personal ‑ According to verse 13, what is one of the major reasons for divorce today? What is one of the major causes of automobile accidents? What is one of the major causes of abortion today? What is one of the major causes of division in our churches today?

 

  1. To put on the Lord Jesus Christ, how must we conduct ourselves?   1 John 2:6

 

  1. For what are we not to make provision? Romans 13:14

 

  1. How do we not give in to the desires of the flesh?     Galatians 5:13

 

Personal ‑ Do you know Jesus well enough through his Word to walk as he did? In what way can you better learn about him?

 

FOURTH DAY            READ MATTHEW 24:37‑44              GOSPEL

(“Stay awake, therefore, you cannot know the day your Lord is coming.”)

  1. Who is the Son of Man? Matthew 1:18, 23
  1. What will he repeat? Matthew 24:37, Gen 7:11-23

 

  1. What were the people doing in the days before the flood and what did the flood do to them?   Matthew 24:38‑39

 

  1. What will happen when Jesus comes again? Matthew 24:40‑41

 

  1. What must we do, why must we do this, and what must we not allow?   Matthew 24:42-43

 

  1. Who are the thieves? John 10:1, 8

 

  1. What do the thieves come to do? John 10:10

 

  1. What must we be before the Son of Man comes? Matthew 24:44

 

  1. How can we be best prepared? John 8:31

 

Personal ‑ In what way are you living according to his teachings? How do you know his teachings?

 

FIFTH DAY             READ PSALM 122:1‑9

(“We will go up to the house of the Lord.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 122:1‑9.

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

ISAIAH 2:1‑5

The emphasis in this passage is peace through obedience to God. This is the only kind of peace that will be permanent. The temple is mentioned, not so much because of its architecture, but because of the presence of God in the Old Testament scripture. The temple was a symbol of religious authority, and all worship was centralized through the temple. The temple was a symbol of God’s holiness, and it was the setting for many of the great visions of the prophets. The temple was a symbol of God’s covenant with Israel.

The temple was a symbol of God’s forgiveness and it prepared the people for the coming of their long-awaited Messiah. The temple was a testimony to human effort and creativity, and finally, above all else, the temple was a place of prayer. Isaiah was prophesying what was going to happen to Jerusalem, and that was that Jerusalem would not only be freed of her bondage, but that she would become a leader to all nations.

The new Jerusalem is a city of God where there will be no more tears, no more sorrow, no more crying, no more pain and no more death. Have you ever wondered what heaven will be like? The Holy City, or New Jerusalem is described in scripture (Rev. 21) as a place where God dwells among his people amid the absence of pain, sorrow and death.

This is a tremendous comfort for us, because no matter what we may be going through, it is not the last word. God has written that last chapter and he has promised us that if we believe in his Son (Jesus), we will not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16). We are told in this passage that a wonderful day of peace will come when we are taught God’s laws and then obey them. We know that sin causes war, conflict, sickness, and disruption.

We are encouraged to begin to obey God, not in the next world but rather, in today’s world. He has given us his Word for direction and guidance. We will not have to wait until we die to enjoy the benefits of his love, we will begin to enjoy them immediately. We will become changed and that change will affect our family, friends, and fellow co‑workers. We must never forget God made a covenant with us. He will never break his promise, and his promise is to be with us until the end of time. (Matt. 28:20).

                       ROMANS 13:11‑14

In this message, Paul really stresses the urgency of changing our lives before Jesus Christ comes back again. No man knows when God will rise and bid him go. The time grows shorter, for we are every day one day nearer that time. Paul stresses that we too must have all things in our life ready. St Augustine, in his story “Confessions” tells of finding conversion in the last verses of this passage. He wondered how long it was going to take to end his life of sinfulness.

With his Word God had spoken to St. Augustine and he will speak to us if we will let him. We do not search for God; he is already searching for us. God’s Word can always find the human heart, no matter how much darkness surrounds it. Let Jesus come into your heart right now and put on the clothes of light and the armor of right living.

In Roman society, a young man put down the clothes of his childhood and put on the toga, a sign of an adult, with its rights and responsibilities. Paul is saying we have laid aside the clothes of the law and now we are putting on Christ’s clothes of righteousness. We are to do the same, we are to cast off and throw away our rotten garments of sin and put on the clothes of grace. Paul was appealing to the commitment the believers had made in their baptism (2:12). They understood baptism to symbolize the death and burial of the old way of life, followed by resurrection to a new life in Christ. When we think of our old life in sin as being dead, we then have a powerful motive to resist sin in our lives today. Today we must consider ourselves dead and unresponsive to the deadly desires of sins of attitude as well as to sins of the flesh. Attitudes lead to action, just like hatred can lead to murder. Jealousy can lead to fighting, and lust can lead to adultery. We must be ourselves, as clean on the inside as we are on the outside when Christ returns again.

                       MATTHEW 24:37‑44

The message in today’s Gospel is to be alert, and be prepared for Jesus’ return to earth. We call this special time Advent as we prepare for the celebration of the birth of the Christ Child on Christmas Day. As we prepare for this blessed day in our Christian calendar, we need to especially remember that what we are celebrating is the anticipation of Christ coming again on this earth to bring the “Good News” to all who have believed in him. As we are told in today’s passage, we are fortunate not to know when that special day comes because we might become lazy in our work for Christ. Some would probably keep on sinning right up to the end and then try to turn to God in the nick of time.

Our goal in life is not just to get to heaven; we also have a commission (Matt. 28:19) right here on earth. We must continue on in our life, living out the reality of God’s presence until we see the triumphant return of our Savior. Our Lord’s second coming will be instantaneous and there will be no time for last minute repentance or bargaining. The choice we have already made today will determine our destiny. Have you made a choice today to let Jesus Christ become the Lord of your life? In today’s passage, Jesus is not telling us about his return to put fear or doubt in our heart. He is not trying to get us into making all kinds of predictions. He is warning us to be prepared. He is giving us a warning of love, because he wants no man or woman to perish.

The bottom line in today’s message is: Will you be found faithfully doing his work on the day of his return? We have those who say we can work our way to heaven alone, and others who say we need only faith to be saved. A story was told of a man in a rowboat taking passengers from the dock to the waiting ship. He had painted on one oar “Faith” and on the other oar “Works.” When he used only the oar that said “Faith,” the boat went in a circle to the left. When he used only the oar marked “Works,” the boat still went into a circle, only this time to the right. When he used both oars the boat went ahead to its desired goal. Jesus wants us, in faith, to continue our good works until he comes again in glory.

Application

In the first reading, we saw the emphasis being placed on obedience. The second reading stressed the urgency of changing our lives, and the Gospel tells us to be alert and prepared.

This week, be alert and prepared to do battle against temptation and sin by being obedient to those who are placed in authority over us. Therefore, let us curb our tongue when we are in conversations at work, school or in the privacy of our own home. The example you provide will allow your co-workers, classmates and family to see the gifts and fruits of the Spirit in your life.

 

34th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME- CHRIST THE KING

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34th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME- CHRIST THE KING

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

Luke 23:35-43 – The rulers sneered at Jesus and said, “He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Christ of God.” Even the soldiers jeered at him. As they approached to offer him wine they called out, “If you are King of the Jews, save yourself.” Above him there was an inscription that read, “This is the king of the Jews.” Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus saying, “Are you not the Christ! Save yourself and us.” The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, “Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” He replied to him, “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”

 

  1. What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

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

 

Share your reflection with someone.

TRIGESIMOCUARTO DOMINGO DEL TIEMPO ORDINARIO CRISTO REY

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TRIGESIMOCUARTO DOMINGO DEL TIEMPO ORDINARIO CRISTO REY

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                                                          2 SAMUEL 5:1-3                                     PRIMERA LECTURA

                                                                  (“Tú eres el que guiará a mi pueblo, Israel.”)

  1. ¿Quiénes vinieron a hablarle a David, qué le dijeron? 2 Samuel 5:1

 

  1. ¿Dónde estaba David? Si puedes busca en un mapa bíblico el lugar, 2 Samuel 5:1.

 

  1. ¿Quién dirigia a Israel y los trajo de regreso? 2 Samuel 5:2

 

  1. ¿Según las tribus de Israel quién habló a David y qué le dijo? 2 Samuel 5:2, y Ezequiel 34:23-24

 

Personal – ¿Entonces, quién creés tú que es el que designa al pastor del pueblo? ¿Sigues tú al Unico, al que Dios ha designado como Rey de Reyes de todos los tiempos?

 

  1. ¿Con quién estaba hablando David? 2 Samuel 24:17

 

Personal – ¿Cómo te habla Dios y cómo le hablas tú como lo hizo David?

 

  1. ¿Qué le pasará al pastor que Dios ha designado cuando éste no escucha y se somete a la palabra de Dios?  Zacarías 11:17, y Jeremías 25:34-36

 

  1. ¿Quién es nuestro Gran Pastor? Leé y escribe las siguientes escrituras:

Génesis 48:15

Salmo 23:1

Juan 10:6-7, 11

Juan 10:16

 

  1. ¿Quién fue hecho rey de Israel? ¿Con quién hizo un pacto el rey antes de ser ungido?   2 Samuel 5:3

Personal – ¿Qué diferencias encuentras entre un buen pastor, un buen rey y un rey malo? ¿Y tú qué eres?

TERCER DIA                                                       COLOSENSES 1:12-20                               SEGUNDA LECTURA

                                        (“A través de El tenemos la redención y el perdón de nuestros pecados.”)

 

  1. ¿Por qué tenemos que darle gracias al Padre? Colosenses 1:12

 

  1. ¿Quién tendrá luz y vida? ¿Quién es la luz? Juan 8:12

 

  1. ¿Quién nos rescató y de quién? Colosenses 1:13

 

  1. ¿Quién tiene el poder de las tinieblas? Hechos 26:18

 

  1. ¿Cuando nos rescató a dónde nos llevó? Colosenses 1:13

 

  1. ¿Qué recibimos a través de Jesús? Colosenses 1:14, 1 Pedro 2:9

 

Personal – ¿Has sido tu redimido? ¿Le has pedido al Señor que te perdone y te haga libre? Vuelve a leer el versículo 14. Esta es una promesa de Dios. Copia este versículo y medita sobre él.

 

  1. ¿Quién es la imágen de Dios que no se puede ver y quién es el primogénito de toda la creación?  Colosenses 1:15

 

  1. Lee y copia lo siguiente:

Salmo 89:28

Juan 1:3

Juan 1:18

Personal – ¿Cómo ves a Dios Padre? ¿Cómo te lo ha revelado Jesús a tí de manera personal? ¿Está con la vara en la mano listo para castigarte o es gentil, amable y está listo para perdonarte? Así como ves a Jesús así vé al Padre.

 

  1. ¿Qué fué creado en él y dónde? Colosenses 1:16, 1 Corintios 8:6

 

  1. ¿Para quién se hizo todo? Colosenses 1:16

 

  1. ¿En quién se mantiene todo? Colosenses 1:17

 

  1. ¿Quién empezó la iglesia y quién es la cabeza? Efesios 1:22, Apocalipsis 1:5, Colosenses 1:18

 

  1. ¿A quién le pasó Cristo ese lugar de cabecera? Mateo 16:18

 

  1. ¿Cómo hemos sido reconciliados con el Padre? Colosenses 1:20

 

Personal – ¿Le has permitido a Jesús lavarte con su sangre y darte la paz con el Padre? ¿Qué cambios puedes ver en tu vida desde que esto fue hecho?

CUARTO DIA                                                             LUCAS 23:35-43                                                      EVANGELIO

                                                                              (“Este es el rey de los Judíos.”)

 

  1. ¿Quién estaba ahí mirando? ¿Quiénes se burlaban de Jesús y qué decían? Lucas 23:35

 

  1. ¿Había alguien más, burlandose de Jesús? ¿Qué le ofrecieron y qué le dijeron? Lucas 23:36-37

 

Personal – ¿Por qué crees que Jesús no se bajó de la cruz y se salvó a sŇ mismo de ésta muerte tan agonizante? Lucas 22:42

 

  1. ¿Era el deseo del Padre que Jesús, Su único Hijo muriera en la cruz? ¿Por qué?  Leé y copia:

1 Timoteo 2:4

Juan 12:47

Juan 3:16

Juan 10:10

 

  1. ¿Si Jesús fué obediente al Padre y estuvo colgado en la cruz y sufrió el peso de nuestros pecados para salvarnos, qué debemos hacer nosotros?  Juan 1:12, Apocalipsis 3:20

 

  1. ¿Cómo debemos seguir el ejemplo de Jesús? Mateo 16:24-25, Marcos 8:35, Lucas 9:24

 

  1. ¿Ha sido a través de algún esfuerzo que nosotros hayamos hecho, que hemos sido salvados? Tito 3:4-5

 

  1. ¿Cuál era la inscripción en el letrero de la cruz de Jesús? Lucas 28:38

 

Personal – ¿De qué modo has hecho a Jesús tu Rey de Reyes y Señor de Señores?  1 Timoteo 1:17, Apocalipsis 17:14, Apocalipsis 19:16

 

  1. ¿Qué le dijo uno de los criminales a Jesús en Lucas 23:39?

 

  1. ¿Por quién estaba preocupado? Lucas 23:39

 

  1. ¿Qué dijo e hizo el otro criminal? Lucas 23:40-41

 

Personal – ¿De qué modo eres como alguno de esos dos criminales? ¿Quién se negaba a sí mismo? ¿Cómo te niegas tú a tí mismo?

 

  1. ¿Qué le dijo a Jesús en el versículo 42 de Lucas 23 y cuál fué la respuesta de Jesús?

 

  1. Leé Mateo 25:33, 34, y 41. ¿Cómo puedes comparar esto con Lucas 23:39-40?

 

Personal – ¿Eres tú el de la derecha o el de la izquierda? ¿De qué modo te has negado a tí mismo esta semana, poniendo antes que a tí mismo a tu esposa, hijos, amigos, vecinos, compañeros de trabajo o amigos de la escuela?

 

QUINTO DIA                                                      LEE EL SALMO 122:1-5

(“Dá gracias al nombre del Señor.”)

Leé y medita el Salmo 122:1-5.

¿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

                                                                                         2 SAMUEL 5:1-3

David fué finalmente ungido rey de todo Israel y esto fué el cumplimiento de una promesa de Dios. Previamente había sido ungido rey en privado por Samuel (1 Samuel 16:13). David era apenas un adolescente y pasó muchos años al servicio del Rey Saúl. Cuando fue coronado Rey de Judá, a los 30 años que era la mitad sur de la Tierra Prometida (2 Samuel 2:4). Fué Coronado rey de todo el país a los treinta y siete años y reinó por cuarenta años.

Cuando David era jóven y estaba considerado fuera de la ley, su futúro se veía muy triste, pero la promesa de Dios de hacerlo rey se había cumplido. David tuvo que esperar muy pacientemente para que ésta se cumpliera, pasaron muchos años antes de que sucediera. Nosotros debemos reflexionar sobre la paciencia y humildad que David tenía al esperar tanto tiempo. El llegó a ser un gran rey, soldado, poeta, cantante, músico, escritor y líder espiritual de su pueblo. Había sido ungido por Dios y sabía que con el tiempo cuando según Dios fuera el tiempo, el plan se realizaría.

El tiempo que David tuvo que esperar lo preparó para el importante oficio de ser el buen pastor que su país necesitaba. Así nosotros necesitamos esperar en el Señor y confiar en que El nos dirigirá en nuestro camino hacia el reino. David fué un líder porque había sido un seguidor de Dios. En un tiempo él quitó sus ojos de Dios y cayó en grave pecado. Pero se arrepintió y vió que insignificante era su reino comparado con el de Dios y regresó y recibió el don de la gracia de Dios y el perdón. Nosotros podemos ser como David; podemos regresar a la sagrada luz de Dios arrepintiéndonos y dándonos cuenta de que Dios es nuestro único buen pastor y de que El nunca falla en ir a buscar y salvar a la oveja perdida. Sigamos el ejemplo de David y permitamos que nuestra unción bautismal sea el principio de nuestra vida eterna con el “Buen Pastor,” Jesús, quien nos hará libres por siempre (Juan 8:32).

COLOSENSES 1:12-20

                 Pablo estaba sacando a la luz una herejía de la iglesia Colosense que fue el inicio del Gnosticismo. La palabra “Gnosticismo” quiere decir conocer y la palabra “herejía” quiere decir instruir contrariamente a la verdadera doctrina. La herejía Gnóstica atacó a la Cristinadad en diversas formas. Sostenía que el conocimiento secreto importante no debía ser revelado a todos los creyentes y enseñaba que el cuerpo es maligno. Pablo responde a esta herejía declarando que Jesús eligió el vivir en un cuerpo humano. Esta herejía niega la humanidad de Cristo y Pablo insistió que en Jesús, vemos a alguien que está completamente vivo, es humano y es bueno.

El Gnosticismo empezaba a ser conocido y podía haber hecho tambalear facilmente las mentes de los creyentes que no sabían sobre la voluntad de Dios a traves de las enseñanzas de la iglesia. Todavía vemos muchas señales de esta herejía rondando en nuestra iglesia. Hoy como en los tiempos de Pablo el mejor modo de que la iglesia permanezca fiel a las enseñanzas del Señor es a través del estudio personal y las enseñanzas de la iglesia. Pablo enlista beneficios que Jesús nos dió a traves de su muerte en la cruz. Nos hizo para ser parte de su reino. Nos rescató de Satanás, nos hizo Sus hijos y nos trajo a su reino eterno (Efesios 2:5-6).

La iglesia Colosense estaba atrapada creyendo que todo lo que es materia es básicamente maligno. Ellos creían que Dios, siendo un espíritu completamente bueno, nunca vendría a la tierra como un verdadero ser humano (ser humano es tener algo de materia). Creían que Cristo no había hecho el mundo pues era increíble que Dios hubiera creado algo que era maligno. Creían que el saber secreto y especial era el único modo de que la gente encontrara a Dios. Pablo les dice que solo Cristo tiene el poder de salvar. Les dice que Jesús no solo es igual a Dios (Filipenses 2:6), El és Dios (Juan 10:30).

Entendamos que Pablo está combatiendo una herejía que trata de poner el conocimiento por encima de los aspectos salvíficos de Dios. Nosotros como los creyentes Colosenses, debemos creer que Jesucristo es Dios y no simplemente un gran profeta. Nuestra fe será hueca, dirigida erroneamente y sin sentido si vemos a Jesús como alguien menos que Dios.

LUCAS 23:35-43

En este pasaje Jesús es puesto en la cruz; y aún con su increíble dolor busca el modo de consolar y perdonar a otros. El lugar donde Jesús fue llevado para ser crucificado se llamaba “Gólgota” que significa “calavera.” Era una pequeña colina en las afueras de las murallas de la ciudad, a un costado de uno de los caminos principales. Los Romanos hacían de las ejecuciones una exposición pública como un ejemplo de lo que sucedía a los que desafiaban la ley Romana. Es irónico que Santiago y Juan le pidieron a Jesús tener lugares de honor cerca de El en su reino (Marcos 10:35-39). Cuando Jesús se estaba preparando a entrar a su reino por la crucifixión, los lugares a su izquierda y derecha eran tomados por criminales convictos que estaban muriendo.

Es un ejemplo increíble para todos nosotros el que Jesús muriera por todos los hombres no solo por unos cuantos seleccionados. Debemos tomar las palabras de Jesús, dirigidas a sus dos discípulos hambrientos de poder, como nuestras y recordar que aquél que quiera estar cerca de Jesús debe prepararse para sufrir y morir como El lo hizo. El único camino al paraíso es a través de la cruz. Aún estando colgado, muriendo y en agonía, Jesús le pide a su Padre que “los perdone por que no saben lo que hacen.” Debemos reflexionar sobre esas palabras, especialmente con todo lo que sucede hoy en día en el mundo.

¿Realmente entendemos que horrible es el pecado para Dios? ¿Realmente entendemos que horrible es cuando dejamos a otros morir de hambre, vivir sin un techo o cuando no damos de vestir al desnudo? ¿Realmente entendemos cuando le damos la espalda al anciano, al que está solo o en prisión o al enfermo mental? ¿Realmente entendemos que horrible es cuando somos la causa de que otros vivan con miedo y que les fallemos sin nuestro amor? Jesús sabía que no entendemos realmente nuestra crueldad y nos muestra la razón real por la cual El murió por todos nosotros. Nos libró de las garras mortales en las que Satanás nos tenía y ahora, con fe, podemos escoger el amar, el hacer a todos los hombres libres y el perdonar. Dios nos dice que si aceptamos a Su hijo, viviremos por siempre (Juan 3:16).

Jesús murió por nosotros y nos perdonó nuestros pecados. Así, nosotros, debemos perdonar a otros como El nos ha perdonado (Mateo 6:15). Seamos como el buen ladrón (Dimas) a la derecha de Jesús y digamos, “Señor, recuérdame cuando estés en tu reino.” El nos dirá como le dijo a Dimas, “En verdad te digo que estarás conmigo en el paraíso.” Jesús es la aurora que se abre en la obscuridad del pecado y dá luz eterna.

Aplicación

En la primera lectura vemos a David siendo paciente y humilde, esperando ser coronado rey cuando Dios lo dispusiera. En la segunda lectura Pablo les está diciendo a los Colosenses que la salvación es una persona llamada Jesús, no una doctrina intelectual. El Evangelio muestra que aún al estar muriendo, Jesús estaba perdonando a los que lo habían herido.

Veamos a las personas y situaciones a nuestro derredor y digamos específicamente, “Padre, perdona a ___________ y a ___________ por lo que él o élla me está haciendo. Aplica esto a la familia, los amigos, el jefe y los compañeros de trabajo.

THIRTY-FOURTH SUNDAY (CHRIST THE KING) – CYCLE C

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                       THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

        THIRTY-FOURTH SUNDAY (CHRIST THE KING) – CYCLE C

 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 2 SAMUEL 5:1-3          FIRST READING

             (“You shall shepherd my people Israel…”)

  

  1. Who came to David and what did they say to him? 2 Samuel 5:1 

    

  1. Where was David? If you can locate this place on a bible map, give location.  2 Samuel  5:1

  

  1. Who led the Israelites out and brought them back?  2 Samuel 5:2

  

  1. Who did the tribes of Israel say spoke to David and what did he say to him?  2 Samuel 5:2, Ezekiel 34:23-24

  

Personal – Who, then, do you think appoints those to shepherd the people?  Are you following the One whom God has appointed King of kings for all times?

 

  1. To whom was David speaking? 2 Samuel 24:17

 

Personal – How does God speak to you and how do you speak to him   as David did?

  

  1. What will happen to the shepherd God has appointed that does not listen and submit to the words of God? Zechariah      11:17 and Jeremiah 25:34-36

  

  1. Who is our Great Shepherd? Read and write out the following      scriptures:

      Genesis 48:15

     Psalm 23:1

     John 10:6-7, 11

     John 10:16

  

  1. Who was made king of Israel? With whom did the king make an  agreement before and who anointed him?  2 Samuel 5:3

  

Personal – What do you see as the difference between a good shepherd, a good king, and a bad king?  What are you?

THIRD DAY          READ COLOSSIANS 1:12-20        SECOND READING

 (“Through him we have redemption, the forgiveness for our sins.”)             

 

  1. For what are we to give thanks to the Father? Colossians 1:12

  

  1. What does it mean “the saints in light” and who is the light?      John 8:12

  

  1. Who rescued us and from whom did he rescue us? Colossians 1:13

  

  1. Who is the power of darkness? Acts 26:18

 

  1. When he rescued us, where did he bring us? Colossians 1:13

  

  1. What do we receive through Jesus? Colossians 1:14, 1 Peter 2:9

  

Personal – Have you been redeemed?  Have you asked the Lord to cleanse you and make you whole?  Reread verse 14.  This is a promise from God.  Write out this verse and meditate on it.

  

  1. Who is the image of our God we cannot see and who is the first-born of all creatures? Colossians 1:15

  

  1. Read and write out:

      Psalm 89:28

     John 1:3

     John 1:18

 Personal – How do you see God the Father?  How has Jesus revealed  him to you personally?  Is he holding a rod ready to punish you or is he gentle, kind and forgiving?  As you see Jesus, you see the Father.

  

  1. What was created in him and where was it created?  Colossians 1:16, 1 Corinthians 8:6

  

  1. For what reason was all created? Colossians 1:16

  

  1. How does everything continue its being? Colossians 1:17

  

  1. Who began the church and who is the head of it?  Ephesians 1:22, Revelation 1:5, Colossians 1:18

  

  1. Onto whom did Christ pass this headship? Matthew 16:18

  

  1. How have we been reconciled with the Father?    Colossians 1:19-20

  

Personal – Have you allowed Jesus to wash you with his blood and   bring you to peace with the Father?  What changes can you see in your life since you have done this?

FOURTH DAY               READ LUKE 23:35-43               GOSPEL

                 (“This is the King of the Jews”)

  

  1. Who stood there watching? Who was jeering at Jesus, and what       were they saying?  Luke 23:35

  

  1. Was there anyone else making fun of Jesus? What did they offer him, and what were they telling him to do?

     Luke 23:36-37

  

Personal – Why do you think Jesus did not come down off the cross  and save himself from this agonizing death?  Luke 22:42

 

 

  1. Was it the Father’s will that Jesus, his only begotten Son, die on the cross and why?

  

     Read and write out:

      1 Timothy 2:4

     John 12:47

     John 3:16

     John 10:10

  

  1. If Jesus was obedient to the Father and hung on the cross and  suffered from the weight of our sins in order to save us,     what must we do?  John 1:12, Revelation 3:20

  

  1. How are we to follow Jesus’ example? Matthew 16:24-25,  Mark 8:35, Luke 9:24

 

  1. Was it through any effort of our own that we have been saved?   Titus 3:4-5

  

  1. What was the inscription written over Jesus’ head?   Luke 23:38

  

Personal – How have you made Jesus your King of Kings and Lord of Lords?  1 Timothy 1:17, Revelation 17:14, Revelation 19:16

  

  1. What did the one criminal say to Jesus in Luke 23:39?

  

  1. About whom was he concerned? Luke 23:39

  

  1. What did the other criminal do and say? Luke 23:40-41

  

Personal – In what way are you like either one of the criminals?  Who was denying himself and how do you deny yourself?

 

  1. What did he say to Jesus in verse 42 of Luke 23 and what was Jesus’ reply?

 

  1. Read Matthew 25:33-34, 41. How can this be compared to Luke 23:39-40?

  

Personal – Are you the one on the left or the right?  In what ways have you denied yourself this week for your spouse, children, friends, neighbor, business associates, or school friends?

 FIFTH DAY             READ PSALM 122:1-5              

              (“Give thanks to the name of the Lord.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 122:1-5.

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     

                         2 SAMUEL  5:1-3

     David was finally anointed king over all Israel, and this was a fulfillment of God’s promise.  He first was anointed king in private by Samuel (1 Samuel 16:13).  David was just a teenager then and spent many years in the service of King Saul.  David was thirty years old when he was crowned King of Judah, which was the southern half of the Promised Land (2 Samuel 2:4).  He was crowned king of the whole country at the age of thirty-seven and reigned for forty years. 

      When David was young and an outlaw, his future looked very bleak, but God’s promise to make him king was now fulfilled.  David had to wait very patiently for God’s promise to be fulfilled, even though he had been promised the kingship many years earlier.  We need to reflect on the patience and humility that David practiced in his long wait.  He went on to become a great king, warrior, poet, singer, musician, writer and spiritual leader of his people.  David was anointed by God and he knew that in time, God’s  time, the plan would come into being. 

      David’s time of waiting prepared him for the very important task of being the good shepherd that his country needed. We too need to wait on the Lord and trust that he will direct us in our walk through the kingdom.  David was a leader because he was a follower of God.  Later David took his eyes off of God and he fell into great sin.  David repented and saw how puny his kingdom was next to God’s and he came back and received God’s gift of grace and forgiveness. We too can be like David; we can all come back to God’s holy light by repenting and realizing that God is our only good shepherd and he will never fail to go out and save the lost sheep.  Let us follow David’s example and let our baptismal anointing be the beginning of our eternal life with the “Good Shepherd,” Jesus, who will set us all free forever (John 8:32).

                         COLOSSIANS 1:12-20

      Paul was bringing to light a heresy in the Colossian church that was the beginning of Gnosticism.  The word “Gnosticism” means knowledge and the word “heresy” means a teaching contrary to true doctrine.  The Gnostic heresy attacked Christianity in several ways. It held that important secret knowledge was to be kept from most believers, and it taught that the body is evil.  Paul responded to this heresy by stating that Jesus chose to dwell in a human body.  This heresy denied the humanity of Christ and Paul insisted that in Jesus we see one who is fully alive, human and good. 

      Gnosticism was beginning to get known and it could easily sway believers’ minds that did not know God’s will through the teachings of the church.  We see many signs of this heresy still lingering on in our church.  Today, as in the times of Paul, the best way a church can remain true to the teachings of the Lord is through personal study and church teachings.  Paul lists five benefits that Jesus gave us through his death on the cross.  He made us to be part of his kingdom.  He rescued us from Satan and made us his children.  He brought us into his eternal kingdom (Eph 2:5-6).

      The Colossian church was caught up in believing that all matter is basically evil.  They believed that God, being a spirit which is all good, would never come to earth as a true human being (being human is part of matter).  They believed that Christ did not make the world, because they believed God would not create anything that was evil.  They believed that special and secret knowledge was the only way people could find God.  Paul told them that only Christ has the power to save.  Paul told them that Jesus is not only equal to God (Phil 2:6), he is God (John 10:30). 

     We need to understand that Paul is combatting a heresy that tries to put knowledge above the saving aspects of God.  We, like the Colossians, must believe that Jesus Christ is God and not simply some great prophet.  Our faith will be hollow, misdirected, and meaningless if we see Jesus as anything less than God.  

                           LUKE 23:35-43

      In this passage, Jesus is placed on the cross; and even in his own incredible pain, he seeks to comfort and to forgive others.  The place where Jesus was led to be crucified was called “Golgotha” which means “the skull.”  This was a small hill just outside of the city walls, alongside a main road.  The Romans made the execution a public display as an example of what happens to those who defy Roman law.  It is ironic that Jesus was asked by James and John for the places of honor next to him in his Kingdom (Mark 10:35-39).  Now that Jesus was preparing to enter his Kingdom through his crucifixion, the places on his left and right were to be taken by dying, convicted criminals.  This is an incredible example for all of us that Jesus’ death was for all men, not just a selected few.  We must take Jesus’ words to his two power-hungry disciples, to our own hearts and remember that anyone who wants to be close to Jesus must be prepared to suffer and die as he did.  The only way to paradise is through the cross.  Even as he hung there dying in agony, Jesus was asking his Father to “forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.”  We need to reflect on those words, especially with what is going on in today’s world.

      Do we really understand how horrible sin is to God?  Do we really understand how horrible it is when we let others starve, go homeless, or we fail to clothe the naked?  Do we really understand when we turn our backs on the old, the lonely, the imprisoned, the mentally ill?  Do we really understand how horrible it is when we cause others to live in fear, and when we fail to love?  Jesus understands that we don’t really understand our own cruelty and he shows us the real reason why he died for all of us.  He freed us from the deathhold that Satan had on us and now, in faith, we can choose to love, choose to make all men free, and choose to forgive.  God tells us that if we accept his son, we will live forever (John 3:16). 

      Jesus died for us and forgave us our sins.  We must also forgive others as he has forgiven us (Matt 6:15).  Let us be like the good thief (Dismas) on Jesus’ right, and say, “Lord, will you remember me in your Kingdom?”  He will say to us as surely as he said to Dismas,  “Believe in me and you too shall be with me in Paradise.”  Jesus is the dawn that breaks into the darkness of sin and gives us the light eternal.

 Application

      In the first reading, we saw David being patient and humbly waiting to be crowned King in God’s time.  In the second reading, Paul is telling the Colossians that salvation is a person named Jesus, not some intellectual doctrine.  The Gospel shows us that even as he was dying, Jesus was forgiving those who hurt him.

      Let us look at the people and situations around us and specifically say, “Father, forgive so and so for what he or she is doing to me.”  Apply this to family, friends, boss, fellow workers, etc.             

33rd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

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33rd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

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

Luke 21:5-19 – While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, “All that you see here—the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.” Then he asked him, “Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?” He answered, “See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and ‘The time has come.’ Do not follow them! When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end,” Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky. “Before all this happens, however, they will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

 

  1. What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

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

 

Share your reflection with someone.

TRIGESIMOTERCER DOMINGO DEL TIEMPO ORDINARIO

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TRIGESIMOTERCER 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                                                      MALAQUIAS 3:19-20                           PRIMERA LECTURA

 

(“Brillará el sol de la justicia que traerá en sus rayos la salud.”)

 

  1. ¿Cómo será el día que está por venir? Malaquías 3:19

 

  1. ¿Qué pasará con todos los orgullosos y malhechores? Malaquías 3:19

 

  1. ¿Cómo quedarán ellos al finalizar ese día? Malaquías 3:19

 

  1. ¿Quién es el que dice que ésto va a pasar? Malaquías 3:19

 

  1. ¿Qué hacen los orgullosos y malhechores? Malaquías 3:5, 13-14

 

  1. ¿Qué aparecerá para todos los que temen el nombre del Señor y con qué clase de rayos? Mal. 3:20

 

  1. ¿Qué harás en tal caso? Malaquías 3:20

 

  1. ¿Qué hacen quienes temen al Señor? Malaquías 3:16

 

  1. ¿Qué diferencia hay entre un orgulloso y un malhechor y quién teme al Señor? Malaquías 3:18

 

  1. ¿De qué es fuente el temor al Señor y de qué nos defiende? Proverbios 14:27

 

Personal – Examina tu conciencia y tus actos de esta última semana; ¿De qué manera has servido al Señor y de qué manera no lo has hecho? ¿Tienes un pie dentro del Reino y el otro afuera?  Leé Apocalipsis 3:15-16.

 

TERCER DIA                                                  2 TESALONICENSES 3:7-12                         SEGUNDA LECTURA

                           (“Que seamos capaces de presentarnos como un ejemplo a ser imitado por los demás.”)

 

  1. ¿Quién habla, a quién le habla y qué le pide hacer en 2 Tesalonicenses 3:7? 2 Tesalonicenses 1:1

 

  1. ¿Por qué pedían a los Tesalonicenses que los imitaran? 2 Tesalonicenses 3:6-8

 

  1. ¿Cuál es el valor de un hombre trabajador? Mateo 10:10

 

  1. ¿Cómo querían presentarse ellos y por qué? 2 Tesalonicenses 3:9

 

  1. ¿Cuál fue la regla que impusieron mientras estuvieron allí? 2 Tesalonicenses 3:10

 

  1. ¿Con qué les dijeron que tenían que trabajar y por qué? 1 Tesalonicenses 4:11-12

 

  1. ¿Qué oyeron Pablo y los otros que algunos de ellos no hacían y cómo actuaban al respecto?  2 Tesalonicenses 3:11

 

  1. ¿Qué pasa cuando no se mantienen ocupados y pierden el tiempo? 1 Timoteo 5:13

 

  1. ¿Qué fue lo que Pablo y los otros les rogaron hacer en el nombre del Señor Jesucristo y cómo deberían hacerlo?  2 Tesalonicenses 3:12

 

  1. ¿Que debemos recordar cuando estemos trabajando? Colosenses 3:23

 

Personal – Si eres estudiante, ama de casa o tienes un empleo o si estás jubilado, ¿Cuál ha sido tu actitud hacía el trabajo que has estado haciendo? ¿Qué clase de ejemplo has sido para los demás? Reflexiona unos momentos sobre esto.

 

CUARTO DIA                                                              LUCAS 21:5-19                                                         EVANGELIO

                                                            (“Serán odiados de todos a causa de Mi nombre.”)

 

  1. ¿De qué estaban hablando en Lucas 21:5?

 

  1. ¿Qué les dijo Jesús acerca de las cosas que estaban contemplando? Lucas 21:6

 

  1. ¿Cuáles fueron las dos cosas que les preguntó? Lucas 21:7

 

  1. ¿A quién les dijo Jesús que no siguieran y qué deberían decir? Lucas 21:8

 

  1. ¿Qué sucederá primero y por lo cual no debemos sentirnos perturbados? ¿Vendrá el fin inmediatamente?  Lucas 21:9

 

  1. ¿Qué les dijo después? Lucas 21:10-11

 

  1. ¿Qué les dijo que iba a pasarles antes de que esto sucediera? Lucas 21:12

 

  1. ¿Qué resultaría en persecusión y juicio como acto concerniente a Su nombre? Hechos 5:28

 

  1. ¿Qué nos harán hacer, qué no debemos hacer y por qué? Lucas 21:13-15

 

  1. ¿Quién hablaba por Esteban cuando acudieron a rebatirlo? Hechos 6:9-10

 

  1. ¿Quién nos librará al final y qué pasará con algunos de nosotros? Lucas 21:16

 

  1. ¿Qué nos pasará por causa de Jesús y aún así, qué es lo que pasará al cabello de nuestra cabeza?

Lucas 21:17-18

  1. ¿Cómo salvarás tu vida? Lucas 21:19

 

  1. Leé los siguientes pasajes de la Sagrada Escritura y apunta lo que dicen acerca de la constancia: Hebreos 3:14, Hebreos 6:11-12 y Hebreos 10:36

 

Personal – ¿Puedes imaginarte perseguido a causa del nombre de Jesús? ¿De qué manera? ¿De qué modo persigues tú a otros por su obediencia a Dios? ¿Cuál es tu posición, sinceramente?

 

QUINTO DIA                                                       LEE EL SALMO 98:5-9

                                           (“Juzgará con justicia al universo y según el derecho a las naciones.”)

 

Leé y medita el Salmo 98:5-9.

 

¿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

                                                                                    MALAQUIAS 3:19-20

Leemos en este pasaje que el día del juicio vendrá sobre nosotros como un ardiente horno para todos aquellos que hayan vuelto la espalda al Señor. Malaquías exhorta y advierte al pueblo acerca de la obediencia al Señor o la pena de sufrir terribles consecuencias. Un horno ardiente tiene fuego blanco y su función es quemar todas las impurezas del metal. Requiere un fuego caliente, peligroso y destructor. A este es al que Malaquías se refiere al compararlo con el día del juicio.

Muchos desobedecieron la voluntad de Dios y deshonraron Su nombre (1:6). Ofrecieron falsos sacrificios (1:7-14), y condujeron a otros al pecado (2:7-9). Muchos se volvieron arrogantes y orgullosos y llamaron “mal” al bien (2:17). A estos fue a los que Malaquías les aseguró que el día del juicio quedarian convertidos en cenizas.

Necesitamos reflexionar sobre nuestro estilo de vida en estos tiempos y ver si esta advertencia se aplica también a nosotros. El nombre de Dios es profanado constantemente en la televisión, en las películas. La idolatría es tan común hoy en este país como lo fué  en el tiempo de Abraham.  Hoy en día muchos adoran al dios de los deportes, televisión, pornografía, aborto, dinero, y poder; ese horno ardiente es tan real hoy en día como lo fue en tiempos de Malaquías.

Malaquías no fue un profeta que habló de la destrucción, el dejó un mensaje de esperanza y perdón. Nos dejó la imágen de un Dios amoroso que será como una curación tierna del sol para aquellos que se arrepientan y regresen a Su amor y obediencia. Dios no quiere que nadie perezca. Juan Bautista habló de la venida del Señor y dijo que sería como un amanecer para los que viven en pecado, en la obscuridad (Lucas 1:76-79). Jesús es la luz del mundo y nosotros somos llamados a llevar esa luz por todas partes donde vayamos.

2 TESALONICENSES 3:7-12

Pablo toma una posición fuerte ante los líderes de la Iglesia que son flojos y también hacía la gente floja en general. Exhorta claramente a todos a que sean responsables y a que trabajen duro y con espíritu cristiano. Pablo nunca pensó que el insistir en que trabajemos fuerte, fuera un ataque a nuestra integridad o dignidad. El pensó que una persona tiene que sacar el mejor provecho de su tiempo y sus talentos; los exhorta a proveerse a sí mismos y también a los demás, al tiempo que insiste claramente en qué  importante es el ejemplo para nuestra comunidad.

Necesitamos insistir en esto, especialmente con nuestros jóvenes y niños. ¿Qué clase de ejemplo les estamos dando? Realmente me ven los demás como una persona honrada y trabajadora, amable y cristiana? ¿Dedico demasiado tiempo a ver la televisión? ¿Paso algún rato todos los días a solas y en silencio con Dios en oración personal? ¿Leo y estudio las Escrituras a diario? Este es el tipo de ejemplo que debemos dar a los demás.

Pablo reprende seriamente a los que pierden el tiempo lamentablemente en chismear. El chisme es un pecado contra el quinto mandamiento: “No matarás.” Matamos a una persona social, emocional o espiritualmente, centimetro a centimetro cuando chismeamos sobre élla. El chisme genera desconfianza, división, desilusión y finalmente desesperación en el Cuerpo de Cristo. El chisme es en algunas ocasiones excitante y parece que cuando lo oimos nos sentimos “de confianza,” pero el chisme en lugar de construir, destruye.

Jesús nos llama a amar a los demas, así como El nos ha amado (Juan 15:12). No podemos deshacer la honra de nuestro prójimo y al mismo tiempo creer que somos Cristianos obedientes. Necesitamos pedir al Señor para que nos libre de este defecto miserable. Nuestras oraciones son poderosas porque nuestro Señor siempre escucha y cura (Santiago 5:16).

LUCAS 21:5-19

El templo al que se refiere aquí y que los discípulos admiraban no era el templo de Salomón. Este fue destruido por los Babilonios en el siglo sexto antes de Cristo. El templo de este pasaje fue construido por Herodes el Grande en el 20 A.C. y después de muchas reparaciones fue completamente arrasado por la armada Romana en el año 70 D.C.

Los discípulos comentaban que bonito y duradero era el templo. Jesús les dice que será destruido y se convertirá en un montón de escombros; ellos por su parte, querían saber cuando pasaría todo esto. Jesús los previene contra los falsos mesías y contra los desastres naturales. Les dijo que nunca los abandonaría y que permanecería con ellos hasta el final de los tiempos (Mateo 28:16-20). Les anunció también que serían perseguidos y llevados a juicio acusados de estar asociados con El. Hoy en día vemos que ésto pasa con algunos que trabajan en un movimiento para parar los abortos bloqueando las entradas a las clínicas de aborción. Muchos de los que protestan son arrestados y llevados a la corte. Un testimonio tremendo se está dando a nuestra nación con ésto y mucha gente se úne a los que actualmente dan testimonio, arriesgando su libertad y su persona por Cristo. Las advertencias de Jesús y sus promesas, todavía son válidas para nosotros hoy en día mientras esperamos su venida. En respuesta a la pregunta de “cuándo sera el fin de los tiempos,” Jesús dice que deberíamos estar menos preocupados con la fecha y más con el estar preparados.

Estamos llamados a vivir una vida Cristiana constantemente, de manera que, no importando lo que venga, estemos preparados. La iglesia primitiva pasó a traves de una persecución. En el siglo segundo, la sangre de los Cristianos estaba considerada como la semilla de los futúros creyentes. Necesitamos recordar que las palabras de Jesús son tan verdaderas hoy como entonces. Hoy tenemos muchas familias que se pelean unas con otras y sufren persecusiones aún a manos de sus parientes amados. Podemos estar sequros de que, no importando que tan difíciles se vuelvan los tiempos, El estará siempre con nosotros y Su Espíritu nos enseña lo que tenemos que decir en tiempos de prueba.

Jesús nos dice que “Ni un solo cabello de nuestra cabeza será dañado,” y quiere decir con eso que ninguno de sus seguidores sufrirá pérdida espiritual o condenación eterna. Podrás perder todas tus posesiones aquí en la tierra, podrás ser golpeado, robado, hasta condenado a muerte, pero si sigues a Cristo, estarás salvado para toda la eternidad.

Aplicación

En la primera lectura escogemos ser o frios o calientes. En la segunda lectura estamos llamados a ser modelo, ejemplo. En el Evangelio escuchamos que debemos tomar una posición firme, o estamos con Dios o estamos contra El.

Escojamos a Cristo en cada situación en que nos encontremos en nuestros hogares, iglesia o trabajo. Antes de que entremos en acción en cualquier situación, ésta semana preguntémonos, “Estoy poniendo en peligro mis creencias al hacer ésto?”

THIRTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – CYCLE C

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                       THE BREAD OF LIFE  CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

         THIRTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – CYCLE C

 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 MALACHI 3:19-20          FIRST READING         

(“…There will arise the sun of justice with its healing rays…”)

 

  1. What will the day be like that is coming? Malachi 3:19

  

  1. What will happen to all the proud and evildoers? Malachi 3:19

  

  1. How will that day leave them? Malachi 3:19

  

  1. Who says this will happen? Malachi 3:19

  

  1. What do the proud and evildoers do? Malachi 3:5, 13-14

  

  1. For those who fear the name of the Lord, what will arise and with what kind of rays?  Malachi 3:20

  

  1. What will you do? Malachi 3:20

  

  1. What do those who fear the Lord do? Malachi 3:16

  

  1. What is the difference between the proud, the evildoer and the      one who fears the Lord?  Malachi 3:18

  

  1. To fear the Lord brings what and what does it avoid?    Proverbs 14:27

 

Personal – Examine your conscience over this past week.  What ways have you served the Lord and what ways have you not served him?  Do you have one foot in the kingdom and one outside?  Read Revelation 3:15-16.

 

THIRD DAY          READ 2 THESSALONIANS 3:7-12     SECOND READING            

                (“…That we might present ourselves as an example for you to imitate.”)

  

  1. Who is speaking? To whom are they speaking?  What are they  asking them to do in 2 Thessalonians 3:7?  2 Thessalonians 1:1

  

  1. Why were they asking the Thessalonians to imitate them?      2 Thessalonians 3:6-8

  

  1. What is the workman worth? Matthew 10:10

  

  1. How did they want to present themselves and for what reason?      2 Thessalonians 3:9

  

  1. What was the rule that they laid down while they were with them?  2 Thessalonians 3:10

  

  1. With what did they tell them to work, and for what reason? 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12

  

  1. What did Paul and the others hear that some of them were not doing and how were they acting?  2 Thessalonians 3:11

  

  1. What happens when you don’t keep busy but waste time?   1 Timothy 5:13

  

  1. What did Paul and the others urge them strongly in the Lord Jesus Christ to do and how were they to do it? 

     2 Thessalonians 3:12

  

  1. What should we remember when working? Colossians 3:23

  

Personal – If you are a student, if you are a homemaker or working on a job, or if you are retired, what has your attitude been towards the work you are doing?  What kind of example are you to outsiders?  Reflect on this. 

 

FOURTH DAY              READ LUKE 21:5-19                  GOSPEL     

               (“All will hate you because of me,…”)

  

  1. About what were some people speaking? Luke 21:5

  

  1. What did Jesus say to them about the things they were contemplating?  Luke 21:6

  

  1. What two things did they ask Jesus? Luke 21:7

  

  1. Who did Jesus say not to follow and what would they be saying?      Luke 21:8

  

  1. What is bound to happen first about which we are not to become perturbed?  Does the end immediately follow this?  Luke 21:9

  

  1. What did Jesus continue to say to them? Luke 21:10-11

  

  1. What did he say would happen to them before all this took place?  Luke 21:12

  

  1. What action concerning his name would result in persecution and trial?  Acts 5:28

  

  1. What will we be brought to do? What are we not to do and     for what reason?  Luke 21:13-15

   

  1. With what did Stephen speak when engaged in debate?      Acts 6:9-10

  

  1. Who will deliver us up and what will happen to some of us?   Luke 21:16

  

  1. What will all do to us because of Jesus and, yet, what will happen to the hair on our heads?  Luke 21:17-18

  

  1. How will we save our lives? Luke 21:19

  

  1. Read the following scriptures and write out what they say about patient endurance:

      Hebrews 3:14

     Hebrews 6:11-12

     Hebrews 10:36

 Personal – In what way do you see yourself being persecuted because of the name of Jesus?  In what way are you persecuting others for their obedience to God?  Where do you stand?

  

FIFTH DAY               READ PSALM 98:5-9                          

              (“He will rule the world with justice and the peoples with equity.”)

 

Read and meditate on Psalm 98:5-9.

 

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 

                  

                         MALACHI 3:19-20

      We  read in this passage that the day of judgment is coming like a blazing furnace for those who have turned their backs on God.  Malachi exhorted and warned the people about being obedient to the Lord or facing terrible consequences. A blazing furnace is white hot and its function is to burn impurities out of precious metal.  It require a hot, dangerous and all consuming fire. Malachi compared judgment day to this.

      Many people were disobedient to God’s will and dishonored his name (Mal.1:6).  They offered false worship (Mal.1:7-14), and they led others into sin (Mal.2:7-9). Many became arrogant and proud, and they called “evil” good (Mal.2:17). These were the people who  Malachi promised would be reduced to stubble on Judgment Day. We need to reflect on our own lifestyle in these troubled times and see if this warning applies to us also. The name of God is mocked and profaned on television and in the movies with great regularity. Idolatry is as common today in this country as it ever was in the time of Abraham.  Today many pay homage to the god of sports, television, pornography, abortion, money, and power. That blazing furnace is as real today as it was in the time of Malachi.

     Malachi was not a prophet of doom, and he left them with a strong message of hope and forgiveness.  He gave us the image of a loving God who will be like a healing warmth of the sun to those that repent and come back to love and obey him. God wills that no man perish. John the Baptist told about the coming of Jesus and said he was like the dawn about to break with light for those in sin and darkness (Luke 1:76-79). Jesus is the light of the world, and we are called to bring that light everywhere.

                      2 THESSALONIANS 3:7-12

      Paul takes a strong stand against laziness in the church leaders and in the people themselves.  He strongly exhorts them to be responsible and hard working Christians.  Paul certainly did not think that working or insisting that people who should work was an attack on their integrity or dignity.  Paul thought that a person should make the most of his time and talents.  Paul exhorted them to provide for themselves and for others as well.  Paul stresses very strongly how important example is to a community. 

      We need to stress that today more than ever to our young people and especially our children.  What kind of example are you setting?  Do people see you as a hard working, kind and patient Christian?  Do you spend too much time watching television?  Do you spend time alone every day with the Lord in quiet prayer?  Do you read and study Scripture every day?  These are the type of examples we need to set for others. 

     Paul really admonishes the people about wasting time gossiping, a sin against the fifth commandment: “Thou shalt not kill.”  You kill a person socially, emotionally, and even spiritually inch by inch when you are gossiping about him.  Gossips breed distrust, division, discouragement and, finally, despair in the body of Christ.  Gossip, in some cases, is exciting to hear; and it means those who are hearing it feel like insiders.  Instead of building up, gossiping tears down.  Jesus calls us to love others as he has loved us (John 15:12).  We cannot be tearing someone down through gossip and think we are loving, obedient Christians.  We need to pray to the Lord so that he will heal us of this miserable, bad habit.  Our prayers are powerful because our Lord listens and heals (James 5:16).

                           LUKE 21:5-19

      The temple the disciples were admiring was not Solomon’s temple.  Solomon’s temple was destroyed by the Babylonians in the sixth century B.C.  The temple in Jesus’ day was the one built by Herod the Great, begun in 20 B.C. It was much larger than the earlier temples.  This temple, after many restorations, was destroyed completely in 70 A.D. by the Roman army.  The disciples were commenting on the beauty and durability of the temple.  Jesus tells them the temple will be knocked down and it will become a pile of rubble.  They wanted to know when this terrible event would happen.  Jesus warned them about false Messiahs and natural disasters.  He told them that he would never leave them and that he would be with them even unto the end of time (Matthew 28:16-20).  he warned them about persecution and being dragged into court because of being associated with him.  We see that happening today to those involved in a movement to stop abortion by blocking the entrance into the abortion clinics.  Many of the protestors have been arrested and hauled into court. A tremendous witness is taking place in our country, so many people have come forward and are being imprisoned for the sake of Christ.  Jesus’ warning and his promises still apply to us as we look forward to his return.  In response to their question of “knowing when the end of the age will come,” Jesus stated that they should be less concerned about the date and more concerned about being prepared.

     We are called to live God’s way constantly so that no matter when he comes, we will be prepared.  The early church thrived despite incredible persecution.  In the early second century the blood of the Christians was considered the seeds of future believers.  We need to remember that Jesus’ words are as true today as they were yesterday.  Today we have many families who have turned against each other and suffer great persecution at the hands of their own loved ones.  We can be assured that no matter how rough the times may get, he is with us, and his Spirit even teaches us what to say in time of trial. 

     Jesus tells us, “Not a hair of your head will be harmed.”  He means that none of his followers will suffer spiritual or eternal loss.  You may lose all of your possessions here on earth, you may be beaten, robbed and even put to death, but you will be saved forever and ever.

Application

     In the first reading we are choosing to be either hot or cold. In the second reading we are called to be a role model.In the Gospel we heard that we need to take a stand with God or against him. 

     Let us choose Christ in every situation we encounter in our homes, church, and jobs.  Before we take action in any situation this week let us ask ourselves, “Am I compromising what I believe in by doing this?” 

32nd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

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32nd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

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

Luke 20:27-38 – Some Sadducees, those who deny that there is a resurrection, came forward and put this question to Jesus, saying, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us, If someone’s brother dies leaving a wife but no child, his brother must take the wife and raise up descendants for his brother. Now there were seven brothers; the first married a woman but died childless. Then the second and the third married her, and likewise all the seven died childless. Finally the woman also died. Now at the resurrection whose wife will that woman be? For all seven had been married to her.” Jesus said to them, “The children of this age marry and remarry; but those who are deemed worthy to attain to the coming age and to the resurrection of the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. They can no longer die, for they are like angels; and they are the children of God because they are the ones who will rise. That the dead will rise even Moses made known in the passage about the bush, when he called out ‘Lord,’ the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob; and he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive.”

 

  1. What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

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

 

Share your reflection with someone.

TRIGESIMOSEGUNDO DOMINGO DEL TIEMPO ORDINARIO

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TRIGESIMOSEGUNDO 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                                                  2 MACABEOS 7:1-2, 9-14                            PRIMERA LECTURA

                                    (“Estamos listos para morir y no violar a las leyes de nuestros antepasados.”)

 

  1. ¿Cuántos hermanos fueron arrestados y quién estaba con ellos? 2 Macabeos 7:1

 

  1. ¿Qué les hizo el rey, por qué lo hizo y cuál fue el motivo por el cual violó la ley? 2 Macabeos 7:1

 

  1. ¿Qué dijo uno de los hermanos cuando estaban hablando de los demás? 2 Macabeos 7:2

 

  1. ¿Qué prefirieron hacer en vez de quebrantar las leyes de quién? 2 Macabeos 7:2

 

  1. ¿Después de matar al primer hermano qué le hicieron al segundo y qué dijo éste? 2 Macabeos 7:7-9

 

  1. ¿Quién es el Rey del mundo y por qué nos resucitará? 1 Timoteo 6:14-15 y 2 Macabeos 7:9

 

  1. ¿Qué le pasó al tercer hermano y qué dijo? 2 Macabeos 7:10-11

 

  1. ¿De qué estaban sorprendidos el rey y sus ayudantes y por qué razón? 2 Macabeos 7:12

 

  1. ¿Qué le pasó al cuarto hermano y qué escogió hacer a manos de los hombres? 2 Macabeos 7:13-14

 

  1. ¿Cuál era la esperanza en Dios que tenía el cuarto hermano y qué es lo que dijo que no habría para los que lo torturaban?  2 Macabeos 7:14

 

  1. ¿Cuando nos morimos quién nos regresa el aliento y la vida y por qué razon? 2 Macabeos 7:23

 

  1. ¿Qué hace el Hijo, Jesús? Juan 5:19-30

 

Personal – ¿De qué manera estás dispuesto a sufrir por creer en Dios? Reza y pídele a Dios que te de valor para defender tus creencias. ¿Qué has dicho ultimamente a los que están a tu alrededor y que te costó trabajo y tuviste que darte valor?

 

TERCER DIA                                                2 TESALONICENSES 2:16-3:5                       SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“Consuelen sus corazones y háganlos más fuertes y progresarán en todo lo bueno que se puede obrar y conocer.”)

  1. ¿Qué nos dió Dios nuestro Padre por compasión? 2 Tesalonicenses 2:16

 

  1. ¿Qué hace Dios por tu corazón y por qué? 2 Tesalonicenses 2:17

 

  1. ¿Por qué razón pidieron Pablo y los otros a los hermanos que rezaran por ellos? 2 Tesalonicenses 3:1

 

  1. ¿Cuál es la otra razon por la que Pablo pidió a otros que rezaran por ellos? Colosenses 4:3-4

 

  1. ¿Pablo pidió que rezaran para que fueran librados de quién? 2 Tesalonicenses 3:2

 

  1. ¿Cómo son algunos hombres y cómo es el Señor? 2 Tesalonicenses 3:2-3

 

  1. ¿Cuáles son las dos cosas que el Señor hace por tí contra el Maligno? 2 Tesalonicenses 3:3

 

  1. ¿Cómo nos fortalece Dios? Salmo 119:28 y Efesios 3:16

 

  1. ¿Cómo recibimos esta fuerza? Hechos 3:16

 

  1. ¿En quién tienen confianza Pablo y los otros? 2 Tesalonicenses 3:4

 

  1. ¿Para qué va a dirigir Dios sus corazones? 2 Tesalonicenses 3:5

 

  1. ¿Qué nos había encargado Dios y cómo se los decíamos? 1 Tesalonicenses 2:4

 

Personal – ¿De qué manera te ha fortalecido Dios por cada buena obra y palabra dicha a traves de Su Palabra y las enseñanzas del Espíritu Santo durante la semana pasada? Sé específico.

 

CUARTO DIA                                                             LUCAS 20:27-38                                                      EVANGELIO

                                         (“Dios no es Dios de los muertos sino de los vivos. Para El todos viven.”)

 

  1. ¿Quién se adelantó para plantearle a Jesús un problema, a qué se referían? Lucas 20:27-28

 

  1. ¿Cuál fue el problema que le propusieron a Jesús? Lucas 20:28-33

 

  1. ¿Qué dijo Dios que hacen los hombres y mujeres de este mundo? Lucas 20:34

 

  1. ¿Los que son dignos de entrar al otro mundo y resucitar qué hacen en relación al matrimonio?  Lucas 20:35

 

  1. ¿A quién se parecen los que son juzgados dignos y qué es lo que no les pasará? Lucas 20:36

 

  1. ¿Quiénes son los que van a resucitar? Lucas 20:36

 

  1. ¿Qué demostró Moisés en el pasaje de la zarza? Lucas 20:37

 

  1. ¿Quiénes no tienen a Dios y quiénes si? Lucas 20:38

 

  1. ¿Para quién están vivos todos? Lucas 20:38
  2. ¿Qué dice sobre resucitar de entre los muertos, 1 Corintios 15:12-19?

 

  1. ¿Qué se necesita para creer en la resurrección de Cristo? Hechos 20:21

 

Personal – ¿De qué manera has sido resucitado y qué esperas con placer? ¿Cómo ven otros a Cristo resucitado en tí?

 

QUINTO DIA                                                LEE EL SALMO 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15

(“Guárdame como la niña de tus ojos, escóndeme en la sombra de tus alas.”)

 

Leé y medita el Salmo 17.

 

¿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

                                                                                 2 MACABEOS 7:1-2, 9-14

                Este pasaje tiene un mensaje poderoso de justicia y resurrección. ¿Pueden imaginar que horrible debió haber sido para esa madre presenciar como cada uno de sus siete hijos era torturado y ejecutado? ¿Pueden imaginar el dolor en su corazón cuando se acerca a su último hijo que le quedaba y animarlo a salvar su vida dándola por Dios? (Mateo 16:25). Qué valor tan grande el de esa madre, quien también es torturada y asesinada y el de sus hijos también. Reflexionemos sobre este relato.

                El miedo al dolor y la muerte no estaba en ellos porque el hambre y la sed de estar con Dios era mayor. No tomemos este pasaje como algo muy exagerado para explicar el asunto. Estos jóvenes amaban la vida tanto como tú o yo. Ellos soñaban con el futúro como tú o yo. Sabían que si se negaban a obedecer serían torturados y muertos. ¿Podríamos hacer nosotros lo mismo? Hoy, aquí en nuestra sociedad nos amenazan con tanta suciedad en nuestras películas, televisión, revistas y hasta con los videos en casa. El nivel de suciedad y de ganancias es tan alto que como Habacuc (1:2) gritamos: ¿Cuánto tiempo tengo que pedir auxilio y tú no me oyes?

                El grado de brutalidad nunca había sido como es ahora en los Estados Unidos ya que vemos que 25 millones de niños que no han nacido son asesinados. Nuestra nación está siendo atacada salvajemente y nuestras gargantas son cortadas con el uso desmedido de las drogas. El motivo primordial de esta plaga maligna es la codicia y las ganancias. ¿Dónde están los hombres como estos hermanos que se paren y protesten contra semejantes barbaridades? ¿Dónde están esos hombres que morirán si es necesario? Las preguntas para nosotros son: ¿Creemos realmente en la resurrección? ¿Creemos realmente que Jesús murió para librar a todos los hombres y para vivir para siempre con El? Ruego que nuestra nación se adelante y nos dé hombres y mujeres como los gigantes espirituales del pasaje de hoy. Rezo con confianza por que El nos dijo que nunca despreciaría al que lo llamara (Juan 6:37).

                                                                           2 TESALONICENSES 2:16-3:5

                Pablo sabía que las presiones por la persecusión, la apatía entre la gente, la mundanería de la gente y los falsos maestros podían causar vacilación en la fe e imprecisión sobre la verdad. El los exhortó a permanecer firmes en las enseñanzas que el Señor Jesucristo les dió, mediante las escrituras y las enseñanzas de la iglesia. Nosotros también nos enfrentamos con esas tentaciones que tratan de alejarnos de Dios. Necesitamos más que nunca asirnos bien a la verdad. Esto se encuentra en las enseñanzas de Jesús, simplemente porque nuestras vidas dependen de ello.

                No debemos olvidar nunca la realidad de Su vida y de Su amor. Pablo no solo está exhortando a la gente, también los está previniendo contra los peligros de los hombres malvados que están entre ellos. Les dice que abajo de la calma superficial de la vida diaria está llevandose a cabo una lucha entre los poderes espirituales invisibles. La pregunta que debemos hacernos es: ¿realmente lo creemos? Nuestra batalla no es contra fuerzas humanas es contra las autoridades y los poderes, los gobernantes del mundo de la obscuridad, los espíritus del mal de las regiones sobrenaturales (Efesios 6:12). Estos gobernantes malvados, seres satánicos y príncipes de la obscuridad no son personas, sino ángeles caidos sobre los que Satanás tiene el control. Estas no son fantasias; son reales verdaderamente. Solo necesitamos mirar a nuestro derredor para ver como las drogas están desgarrando las gargantas de los Americanos.

                La industria de la pornografía es inmensa y está en todas las ciudades de los Estados Unidos. El aborto o asesinato, está aceptado y legalmente protegido en todas partes de esta grán nación. ¿Hay alguna duda de que esos demonios de Satanás estan activos en estas cosas abominables que estan mutilando a nuestra nación? Cuando aceptamos a Jesús como nuestro Señor y Salvador y seguimos las enseñanzas de nuestra Iglesia Católica, Satanás se convierte en nuestro archienemigo. Está ahí para matarnos y debemos recordar que el Espíritu que está dentro de nosotros es más grande que el que está en este mundo (1 Juan 4:4). Jesús es la única respuesta a nuestros problemas y ha ganado para nosotros la victoria sobre Satanás. El es el que nos dará la fuerza y nos cuidará contra el maligno (2 Tes. 3:3). Sigamos en el Señor las enseñanzas de la iglesia con la misma obediencia y confianza que Pablo tenía en los Tesalonicenses.

                                                                                        LUCAS 20:27-38

                Los Saduceos eran un grupo de líderes religiosos conservadores que solo honraban el Pentateuco (Del Génesis al Deuteronomio). No creían en la resurrección de los muertos porque no podían encontrar ninguna mención de ello en los primeros cinco libros del Antiguo Testamento. Trataron de ponerle una trampa a Jesús con una pregunta que siempre preocupaba a los Fariseos. Jesús les contestaba sus verdaderas preguntas acerca de la resurrección después de hablarles sobre su otra pregunta acerca del matrimonio. Jesús basó sus respuestas en los escritos de Moisés. Los Saduceos respetaban a Moisés tanto que solo honraban los libros que tenían que ver con él y sus antepasados.

                Jesús sabía que respetaban a Moisés y sus respuestas confirmaban la creencia en la resurrección. La respuesta de Jesús sobre el matrimonio no quería significar que la gente no reconocería a sus esposos cuando llegaran al cielo; lo que quiso decir es que el cielo no es una extensión de la vida como la conocemos aquí en la tierra. Jesús habla de los que son encontrados dignos de ser resucitados de la muerte a una vida celestial. Quizá nos preguntamos, ¿Qué significa ser digno de ser resucitado a la vida celestial? Se nos ha dicho que si creemos en Jesucristo no pereceremos, sino que tendremos vida eterna (Juan 3:16).

                Jesús les dijo que no podían comparar lo que tenemos en la tierra con lo que tendremos en el cielo. El contestó a sus preguntas acerca de “la resurrección” mostrándoles que las escrituras de Moisés probaban que si hay una resurrección. El Dios de Moisés es el Dios de Abraham, Isac y Jacob. Esto significa que el Señor es el Dios de alguna persona, lo cual significa que esa persona está viva, no muerta. Dios ve a todos los hombres que creen en El como Sus hijos vivos.

                Necesitamos preguntarnos: ¿Creemos en la resurrección? ¿Resucitaremos de la muerte como Jesús? ¿Nos reuniremos algún día en el cielo con todos nuestros seres queridos que murieron antes que nosotros? Se nos dice en las escrituras que confesemos con los labios y creamos con el corazún que Jesús es el Señor y entonces seremos hijos suyos y estaremos con El por siempre. La verdadera pregunta para los Saduceos era: “¿Es la resurrección algo real?” Dios dice “Sí” cuando dice que todo el que crea en Su Hijo no morirá sino que vivirá para siempre en el cielo (Juan 3:16).

Aplicación

                La primera lectura muestra que el hambre y la sed por Dios eran más fuertes que el miedo al dolor y la muerte. La segunda lectura nos dice que nos mantengamos firmes a las enseñanzas de las escrituras y a las enseñanzas de nuestra amada iglesia. El evangelio nos dice que el cielo no es la extensión de la vida como la conocemos aquí en la tierra.

                Esta semana deja que todos los que estén en contacto contigo vean que el mensaje de justicia y resurrección está vivo en tí. Que se oigan tus oraciones en casa. No temas darle gracias y alabanzas a Dios en público por algo que te haya pasado. Ve a tu alrededor y mira donde se presentan oportunidades para atestiguar. Tu familia verá y sentirá este valor y seguirá tu ejemplo.

THIRTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – CYCLE C

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                       THE BREAD OF LIFE   CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

         THIRTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – CYCLE C

 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 2 MACCABEES 7:1-2, 9-14     FIRST READING

           (“We are ready to die rather than transgress the laws of our ancestors.”)

 

  1. How many brothers were arrested and who was with them?    2 Maccabees 7:1

  

  1. What did the king do to them? Why did he do this and of what  was this in violation?  2 Maccabees 7:1

  

  1. What did one of the brothers say in speaking for the other brothers?  2 Maccabees 7:2

  

  1. What would they rather do than transgress the laws of whom?   2 Maccabees 7:2

  

  1. After killing the first brother what did they do to the second brother and what did he say?  2 Maccabees 7:7-9

 

6.  Who is the King of the world and for what will he raise us up?    1 Timothy 6:14-15, 2 Maccabees 7:9

  

  1. What happened to the third brother and what did he say?      2 Maccabees 7:10-11

  

  1. At what did the king and his attendants marvel, and for what  reason?  2 Maccabees 7:12

  

  1. What happened to the fourth brother and what did he choose to do at the hands of men?  2 Maccabees 7:13-14

  

  1. What was the fourth brother’s God-given hope and what did   he say there would not be for the torturers?  2 Maccabees 7:14

  

  1. When we die who gives back both breath and life and for what  reason?  2 Maccabees 7:23

  

  1. What does the Son, Jesus, do? John 5:19-30.

  

Personal – In what way have you been willing to suffer for your belief in Jesus?  What have you said lately to those around you that took courage to say to them?  Pray and ask God to give you the courage to stand up for what you believe in.

  

THIRD DAY        READ 2 THESSALONIANS 2:16-3:5    SECOND READING

           (“…console your hearts and strengthen them for every good work and word.”)

 

  1. What did God our Father in his mercy give us?      2 Thessalonians 2:16

  

  1. What does God do for your heart and for what reason does he do this?  2 Thessalonians 2:17

 

  1. For what reason did Paul and the others ask the brothers to pray for them?  2 Thessalonians 3:1

  

  1. What is another reason that Paul asks others to pray for them?  Colossians 4:3-4

  

  1. Paul asks them to pray that they be delivered from whom?      2 Thessalonians 3:2

  

  1. What is it that not every man has and that the Lord always keeps?  2 Thessalonians 3:2-3

  

  1. What two things does the Lord do for you against the evil one?  2 Thessalonians 3:3

  

  1. How does God strengthen us? Psalm 119:28, Ephesians 3:16

  

  1. How do we receive this strength? Acts 3:16

  

  1. About what are Paul and the others confident in the Lord?   2 Thessalonians 3:4

  

  1. In what are they asking the Lord to rule their hearts?      2 Thessalonians 3:5

  

  1. How do we speak and of what is God the tester?      1 Thessalonians 2:4

  

Personal – In what way has God strengthened you for every good work and word through his Word and the teaching of the Holy Spirit this past week?  Be specific.

  

FOURTH DAY             READ LUKE 20:27-38                GOSPEL

       (“God is not the God of the dead but of the living.   All are alive for him.”)

  

  1. Who came forward to pose a problem to Jesus and what did they claim?  Luke 20:27-28

  

  1. What was the problem they proposed to Jesus? Luke 20:28-33

  

  1. What did Jesus say children of this age do? Luke 20:34

  

  1. What do those judged worthy of a place in the age to come and of resurrection from the dead do in regard to marriage?

     Luke 20:35

  

  1. What do those judged worthy become like and what will not happen to them?  Luke 20:36

  

  1. Who are the ones that will rise? Luke 20:36

  

  1. What did Moses in the passage about the bush show? Luke 20:37

  

  1. Who does not have God and who does have God? Luke 20:38

  

  1. For what are we alive? Luke 20:38

  

  1. What does Corinthians say about being raised up from the dead?    1 Corinthians 15:12-19

  

  1. What does it take to believe in Christ’s resurrection?      Acts 20:21.

  

Personal – In what way have you already been resurrected and to what do you look forward?  In what way do others see the resurrected Christ living in you?

 

FIFTH DAY           READ PSALM 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15          

         (“Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in  the shadow of your wings…”)

 

Read and meditate on Psalm 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15.

 

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         

                      2 MACCABEES 7:1-2, 9-14

     This passage has a powerful message of justice and resurrection.  Can you imagine how horrible it must have been for that mother to watch each one of her seven sons being tortured and then being executed?  Can you just imagine the pain in her heart as she leans closely to her last remaining son and encouraging him to save his life by giving it up for God (Matthew 16:25)?  What tremendous courage this mother, who is herself later tortured and murdered, and her sons had.  We need to reflect on this story.

     The fear of pain and death was not in their responses because the hunger and thirst to be at one with God was greater.  We must not dismiss this passage as an exaggerated story told to make a point.  These young men loved life as much as you or I do.  They dreamed about their futures just like you and I do.  They knew that to refuse this command meant torture and death.  Could we do the same?  Today, here in our society, we are being threatened with such a barrage of filth in our movies, television, magazines and now even in our home video tape recordings.  The level of filth and profit is so high that like Habakkuk (1:2), we cry out, how long will I call for help, and you do not hear? 

     The degree of brutality has never been equalled as it has here in the United States when we look at the 25 million unborn babies we have murdered.  Our nation is being savagely attacked, and our throats are being slashed by the incredibly overwhelming use of drugs.  The primary motive for this plague of evil is greed and profit.  Where are men like these brothers who will stand up and protest against these outrages?  Where are these men  who will die if they have to?  The questions upon us today are: Do we really believe in the Resurrection?  Do we really believe that Jesus died to make all men free and live forever with him? I pray that our nation will come forth and give us men and women like the spiritual giants in today’s passage.  I pray with confidence because he tells us that he will never turn away anyone who calls out to him (John 6:37).

                    2 THESSALONIANS 2:16-3:5

     Paul knew that the pressures of persecutions, apathy among the people, worldliness of the people and false teachers would cause a wavering of the faith and a looseness with the truth.  He exhorted them to stand firm in the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ passed on to us through scripture and the teachings of the church.  We, too, are being confronted with these temptations that try to turn us away from God.  We need to more than ever hold onto the truth.  This is found in the teachings of Jesus, simply because our lives depend on it. 

      We must never forget the reality of his life and love.  Paul is not only exhorting the people, but he is also warning them about the dangers of evil men in their midst.  He is telling them that beneath the surface calm of daily living is the struggle that goes on among invisible spiritual powers.  The question we need to ask ourselves is, do we really believe that?  Our battle is not against human forces but against the principalities and powers, the rulers of this world of darkness, the evil spirits in regions above (Ephesians 6:12).  These evil rulers, satanic beings and evil princes of darkness are not people, but fallen angels over whom Satan has control.  They are not fantasies; they are very real.  We need only to look around and see how the drugs are tearing Americans’ throats open. 

     The pornography industry is colossal and it is in every city in the United States.  Abortion or murder is accepted and legally protected in all parts of this great nation.  Is there any doubt that these demons of Satan are active in these abominations that are crippling our nation?  When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior and follow the teachings of our Catholic Church, Satan becomes our arch-enemy.  He is out to kill us, and we must remember that the Spirit within us is greater than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4).  Jesus is the only answer to our problems and he has won the victory over Satan for us.  He is the one who will strengthen us and guard us against the evil one (2 Thess. 3:3).  Let us in the Lord follow the teachings of the church with the same obedience and confidence that Paul had in the Thessalonians.

                            LUKE 20:27-38

     The Sadducees were a group of conservative religious leaders who honored only the Pentateuch (Genesis to Deuteronomy).  They did not believe in the resurrection of the dead because they could not find any mention of it in their first five books of the Old Testament.  They tried to trick Jesus with a question that always bothered the Pharisees.  Jesus answered their real question about resurrection after he addressed their other question on marriage.  Jesus based his response on the writings of Moses. The Sadducees respected Moses so much that they honored only the books that dealt with him and his ancestors. 

      Jesus knew that they respected Moses and his answers upheld belief in the resurrection.  Jesus’ answer on marriage didn’t mean that people will not recognize their spouses when they get to heaven; he meant that heaven is not an extension of life as we know it here on earth.  Jesus talks about those who are counted worthy of being raised from the dead to heavenly life.  We might ask ourselves: What does it mean to be worthy of being raised to heavenly life?  We are told that if we believe in Jesus Christ, we shall not perish, rather we shall have eternal life (John 3:16). 

      Jesus told them that they can’t compare what we have on earth with what we will have in heaven.  He answered their question about “the resurrection” by showing that the writings of Moses proved that there is a resurrection.  Moses’ God is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  This means that the Lord is some person’s God, which means that person is alive, not dead.  God sees all men who believe in him as living children of him. 

     We need to ask ourselves this question: Do we believe in the resurrection?  Will we rise from the dead like Jesus did?  Will we some day be reunited in heaven with all of our loved ones who died before us?  We are told in Scripture to confess with our lips and believe in our hearts that Jesus is Lord and then we are his children and we will be with him forever.  The real question for the Sadducees was: “Is the Resurrection real?”  God said “YES” when he said that all who believe in his Son will not die but live forever in heaven (John 3:16). 

Application

     The first reading shows that hunger and thirst for God was much stronger than the fear of pain and death.  The second reading calls us to stand firm in the teaching of scripture and the teachings of our beloved church.  The gospel tells us that heaven is not an extension of life as we know it here on earth.

     This week, let all who come in contact with you see that the message of justice and resurrection is alive in you. Let your prayers be heard in your home. Do not be afraid to give thanks and praise to God for something that happens to you in public.  Look around and see where opportunities to witness are present.  Your family will see and experience this courage and follow your example.