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PENTECOST (May 28th) ‑ CYCLE A

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THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

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

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

 

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

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

 

 

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

 

 

 

SECOND DAY               READ ACTS 2:1-11          FIRST READING

(“All were filled with the Holy Spirit.”)

  1. What day had come, and where were the disciples gathered? Acts 2:1

 

 

  1. How many days after the Passover was Pentecost celebrated, and what are other names for it?  Leviticus 23:15-16, Exodus 23:16, Numbers 28:26

 

 

  1. What suddenly happened from up in the sky, and where was it heard?   Acts 2:2

 

 

  1. Read the following scripture, and tell what the Spirit gives to a person? Ezekiel 37:9, 14

 

 

  1. What appeared, and what did it do? Acts 2:3

 

 

  1. What was Jesus’ promise just before he ascended to heaven? Acts 1:5, 8

 

 

  1. With what were all filled, and how did they express themselves?   Acts 2:4

 

 

  1. What did the Spirit prompt them to do? Acts 2:4, Acts 4:31

 

 

  1. Who was staying in Jerusalem at the time, and what did they hear?   Acts 2:5-6

 

 

  1. About what were they confused? Acts 2:6

 

 

  1. What was their reaction? What did they ask, and about what were they so amazed?   Acts 2:7-11

 

 

Personal – How can your family or friends identify the Spirit of God’s presence in you? What comes forth from your mouth, and what do you need to do so people will be astonished by your words?

 

 

THIRD DAY       READ 1 CORINTHIANS 12:3-7, 12-13 SECOND READING

(“No one can say “Jesus is Lord,” except in the Holy Spirit.”)

  1. What is Paul telling the brothers that you cannot do in the Spirit of God, and what can be said only in the Holy Spirit? 1 Corinthians 12:3

 

 

  1. What is there different, but with the same Spirit? 1 Corinthians 12:4

 

 

  1. There are different ministries and works but the same God who accomplishes what?   1 Corinthians 12:5-6

 

 

  1. To each person the manifestation of the Spirit is given for what reason?   1 Corinthians 12:7

 

 

  1. In what gifts should you try to be rich? 1 Corinthians 14:12

 

 

  1. Fill in the following blanks: The body is ___ and has _____ members, but all the members, ____ though they are, are ____ body; and so it is with Christ.  1 Corinthians 12:12

 

 

  1. In the one Spirit, who were baptized into the one body? 1 Corinthians 12:13

 

 

  1. What have all of us been given to drink? 1 Cor. 12:13

 

 

  1. Into whom have we been baptized? Galatians 3:27

 

 

  1. When were we chosen and sealed with the Holy Spirit? Ephesians 1:13

 

 

Personal – From the above scriptures, how can you identify the manifestation of the Spirit in your life, and in those you come in contact with? Reread 1 Corinthians 12:3, and take note of what comes forth from your mouth this week.

 

 

FOURTH DAY              READ JOHN 20:19-23                GOSPEL

(“Receive the Holy Spirit.”)

  1. Why did the disciples lock the doors of the place where they were? John 20:19

 

 

  1. Who came and stood before them, and what did he say to them? John 20:19

 

 

  1. When he had said this, what did he show them? John 20:20

 

 

  1. What did the disciples do at the sight of the Lord? John 20:20

 

 

Personal – In what way has our Lord appeared to you when you have been gathered with others praying, and what has been your respo­nse?

 

  1. What did Jesus say again, and what is his gift to you? John 20:21, John 14:27

 

  1. Whom has the Father sent, and who sends us? John 20:21

 

  1. What did Jesus do to the disciples, and what did they receive?   John 20:22

 

  1. How did the Lord God form man, and how did he give him life? Genesis 2:7

 

  1. If we forgive other’s sin, what happens to them, and if we hold them bound, what happens?   John 20:23

 

  1. What did Jesus say to the Father while on the cross, and whom should we imitate? Luke 23:34, Ephesians 5:1-2

 

Personal – How do others see in you, spiritually and physically, the breath of his life? How do others see you living out your sign of baptism through repentance, which means change? How do others see you as you practice forgiveness of others, and ask others to forgive you? How often do you feel the need for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and why?

 

 

FIFTH DAY        READ PSALM 104:1, 24, 29-31, 34

(“When you send forth your Spirit, they are created.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 104:1, 24, 29-31, 34

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

 

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ACTS 2:1-11

In today’s readings we celebrate the Feast of “Pentecost,” which means fifty (50). This was a feast that was celebr­ated about fifty days after Passover and was a feast of thanksg­iving for the harvest. The first fruits of the crop were offered to God that day. All Jewish men were expected to come to the temple for the feast. The city was usually full to overflow­ing, and it was fitting that this day was chosen as the day the Holy Spirit descended on the Apostles.

Today is, in reality, the birthday of the church, and the Christian religion was to be a church for the whole world. The old law was given by God to Moses for the Jews only. The new law, given by Christ and confirmed by the power of the Holy Spirit, was for all peoples. That means you, and that means today, right­ where you are. The very fact that you are reading this Bible Study is proof that the power of the Holy Spirit is drawing you near to him.

Let today be the day that you fall upon your knees and invite Jesus Christ to come into your heart and become the Lord of your life. Take a few moments and confess to the Lord all that is twisted within you, and then ask him to let his Holy Spirit fill you with the power and peace that surpasses all under­standing. The celebration of Pentecost is for us as well as it was for the Jews in today’s passage. Let the power of the Holy Spirit flow through you, and you will enjoy that same gift that the Apostles had, the gift of speaking in tongues.

The signs and wonders of that incredible day brought huge crowds of Jews to the place where the Apostles were staying. This was the day chosen for the Apostles to go forward and make disciples of all nations. We are called also to go forward and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). Let us remember, after the Jews celebrated the Feast of the Passover (Moses leading his people to freedom), they celebrated the Feast of Weeks and the Feast of Harvests which were celebrated on the same day and were later called Pentecost. It was one of three major feasts of the year (Leviticus 23:16), a feast of thanksgiving for the harvested crops. The Holy Spirit came fifty days after the resurrection and Peter’s speech resulted in a harvest of new believers.

The Lord needs some good labore­rs to work in the vineyard. Are you ready to join the workers?

 

1 CORINTHIANS 12:3-7, 12-13

In this passage, we see that the gifts of the Holy Spirit were given for the good of the whole community to help build up the body of Christ. We should not refuse to use the gifts of the Holy Spirit nor claim them as our own. Paul clearly warns against listening to false teachers, and he shows us how to check out their credentials. We are to find out what they teach about Christ.

We see people today who mock Jesus Christ, not only with their words, but in the way they live. We see people using their gifts to split communities apart, and then trying to tell us that they are only doing God’s will. Anyone can claim to speak for God, and we need only to look at some of the leaders in some countries, and we can see a lot of false messiahs running around. God has given us many different gifts, but we must remember, they all come from the same Spirit, and they are to be used to help the community or church. They will know we are Christians by the way we love and help one another.

Paul com­pares the body of Christ to a human body. Each part is an individual, and has a specific job to do. In their differ­ences, all of the parts must work together for the good of the whole body. Jesus Christ is the head, and the rest of us make up the body of Christ. It is very important that we are not too proud of our abilities, and we must not compare ourselves with one another. We are called to use our different gifts together, to spread the “Good News” to a world that is filled with “bad news.” The church, which is the people who believe that “Jesus is Lord,” must be united in its belief in Christ. It must not let its leaders or members use any gifts to cause divisions or strife.

Faith in Christ is the core of Christian unity. We are one body, with one spirit, united in Christ with the Father through the power of the Holy Spirit. When we were baptized into the Christian Faith, the Holy Spirit took up residence in us and we became the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corin­thians 3:16). You, by your baptism, have been born into God’s family, and our common goal is faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

 

JOHN 20:19-23

Today’s Gospel passage reveals to us the incredible gift of the Holy Spirit being given publicly to the disciples of Jesus by Jesus himself. This is a tremendous feast day in the church. We look back, and we see that Advent was a time to prepare for the Incarnation of God (God becoming man). Christmas was the happen­ing of this great Incarnation act. We then moved into Lent and began to prepare ourselves for the sufferings endured by Christ on our behalf during his holy week. We celebrated victory in Jesus’ triumph over death which guaranteed our union with him in heaven.

Today, we celebrate in Pentecost the Holy Spirit coming to abide within his church. This means abiding in you, me, and all believers of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit gives the power to preserve, to teach, to ex­plain, and to spread the Gospel of “Good News,” which is a message of hope and love for everyone in the world.

This Holy Spirit who came upon the disciples and all of the people in the upper room is the same Spirit who wants to abide in us. We can let him come into our heart right now by getting down on our knees and confessing our sins to the Lord. Invite him to come and take up residence in your temple, and let him take control of your life. His power will flow through you, and your life will never be the same again. His peace will be your peace, and it will be a peace that surpasses all understand­ing (Philippians 4:7).

The power from the Holy Spirit helps all of us live a life of holiness and wholeness. We need to always remember that God’s plan for each one of us is to live a life that is abundant and full (John 10:10). The Holy Spirit gives us the power, in the name of Jesus, to bind Satan and his cohorts, and in his name, to loosen the Spirit of the Lord Jesus to heal, to restore and, to forgive. We can release others from the bondage of sin by our compassion and forgiveness. We are more than conquerors; we are children of the Living God and we are called to set the captives free and give sight to the blind. We do that by forgiving them, and loving them through the power of the Holy Spirit, and in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Pentecost – the harvest is now, the Kingdom of God is at hand, come and be fishers of men. I pray that the Holy Spirit today will fill you with his love and power, and fill all of us with gratitude for all that God has done for us.

 

Application

The first reading tells us that we celebrate the birthday of the church when we celebrate “Pentecost.” The second reading reveals that the gifts of the Holy Spirit are to be used to uplift the community. The Gospel reveals to us that the Holy Spirit gives us power in the name of Jesus. This power is a healing power.

Let us take a long look at our gifts, and then share them with others this week. You might visit someone who is sick, or visit someone in jail. You might write a letter to someone who is lonely, or cook someone a special meal. Do some­thing beauti­ful for God this week, and keep on giving your gift away. God will never let you be without a gift – try it, you’ll like it.

 

SEPTIMO DOMINGO DE PASCUA (May 21st) – CICLO A

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El Pan de Vida – Estudio de Biblia Catolico

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

ANTES DE COMENZAR:

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

SEGUNDO DIA                                  LEE HECHOS 1:12-14              PRIMERA LECTURA

(“Todos ellos perseveraban en la oración.”)

  1. ¿Dónde está la montaña llamada de los Olivos y que había ocurrido ahí previamente?   Hechos 1:1-2 y 12.

 

  1. ¿Llegando a la ciudad, quién fue a los cuartos de arriba donde ellos se estaban quedando?   Hechos 1:13

 

  1. ¿A qué se habían dedicado ellos? Hechos 1:14

 

  1. ¿Qué dicen las siguientes escrituras acerca de la oración?

 

Marcos 11:24

Filipenses 4:6-7

Col. 4:2

1 Timoteo 2:8

1 Timoteo 4:4-5

 

Personal – ¿En qué formas te reúnes a orar con otros, cómo oran, y por qué oran?

 

  1. ¿Quién estaba en la compañía de los discípulos? Hechos 1:14

 

  1. ¿Cuándo hubo otra ocasión en la que había mujeres presentes? Lucas 8:1-3

 

  1. ¿Qué dijo Jesús acerca de su madre y hermanos en Lucas 8:19-21?

 

  1. ¿Qué no existe entre ustedes y por qué razón? Gálatas 3:24-28

 

Personal – ¿En qué formas has orado esta semana con María, la madre de Dios?  ¿Qué tan seguido oras con los hombres, mujeres y niños que están más cerca de ti?

 

TERCER DIA                                         1 PEDRO 4:13-16                  SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“Cuando Su gloria sea revelada, ustedes se regocijarán.”)

  1. ¿En qué te debes regocijar? 1 Pedro 4:13
  2. ¿Cómo puedes compartir los sufrimientos de Cristo? 2 Timoteo 2:11

 

  1. ¿A qué nos dirigen nuestros sufrimientos y aflicciones? Romanos 5:3-5

 

  1. ¿Cómo somos glorificados con Jesús? Romanos 8:17 y Juan 12:23-24

 

  1. ¿Qué harás cuando Su gloria sea revelada? 1 Pedro 4:13

 

  1. ¿Cómo nos encontramos cuando nos insultan por causa de Cristo, y quién en Su gloria ha venido a descansar sobre nosotros? 1 Pedro 4:14

 

  1. ¿Qué estará presente en ti cuando el Espíritu descanse sobre ti? Isaías 11:2

 

  1. ¿Cuáles son aquellas cosas por las cuáles ojalá no tengamos que sufrir? 1 Pedro 4:15

 

  1. ¿Si alguien sufre por ser Cristiano, como no debe sentirse; más bien que debe hacer?  1 Pedro 4:16

 

Personal – ¿En qué forma has muerto a tu antiguo modo de hacer las cosas para poder llevar el nombre de Cristiano?  ¿Qué significa ese nombre para ti?  ¿Cómo has sufrido por ese nombre, y cuál ha sido tu actitud?

 

CUARTO DIA                                       LEE JUAN 17:1-11                               EVANGELIO

(“He manifestado tu Nombre a los que me diste apartándolos del mundo.”)

  1. ¿Qué palabras tranquilizadoras había hablado Jesús? Juan 16:33

 

  1. ¿A dónde miró Jesús, y qué dijo? Juan 17:1

 

  1. ¿Qué se le ha dado a El por sobre toda la humanidad, para que pueda hacer qué? Juan 17:2

 

  1. ¿Qué es la vida eterna? Juan 17:3 y 1 Juan 5:20

 

  1. ¿Qué hizo Jesús en la tierra y cómo lo hizo? Juan 17:4

 

  1. ¿Dónde le da gloria el Padre a Jesús y cuando tuvo El esta gloria? Juan 17:5

 

  1. ¿Qué les hizo saber, y qué han hecho esos a los que se les han dado? Juan 17:6

 

  1. ¿De qué se dan cuenta, que fue confiado a ellos y qué tuvieron que hacer? Juan 17:8

 

  1. ¿Cómo se les es dado a saber que Jesús vino del Padre y qué tuvieron que hacer?  Juan 17:8

 

  1. ¿Por quién ora Jesús? Juan 17:9

 

  1. ¿Quién ha sido glorificado? Juan 17:10

 

  1. ¿Dónde dice El que no estará más? ¿Qué le pide al Padre que haga, cómo lo hará para que estos lleguen a ser uno, como lo son el Padre y el Hijo?  Juan 17:11

 

Personal – ¿Cómo has hecho conocido el nombre de Jesús a esos que El te ha dado?  ¿Apunta de que manera has llegado a saber quien es Jesús.  ¿Cómo te ha revelado el camino, la verdad y la vida?  Medita sobre esto y comparte con alguien.

 


QUINTO DIA                                 LEE EL SALMO 27:1, 4, 7-8

(“…es tu rostro, Señor, lo que yo busco.”)

Lee y medita el Salmo 27:1, 4, 7-8.

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

 

¿Cómo puedes aplicar esto a tu vida diaria?

 

SEXTO DIA                                LEE TODO EL COMENTARIO

HECHOS 1:12-14

El tema central del pasaje de ahora es la absoluta necesidad de la oración. En el mundo de ahora, el área más fuerte en tu vida debe ser el tiempo en que oras con Jesucristo.  Hemos visto por todo el Nuevo Testamento que Jesús se retiraba y oraba a solas a Su Padre antes de hacer cualquier cosa.  Nosotros somos llamados a ser como El.  Jesús les dijo que no abandonaran la habitación superior hasta que Su Espíritu regresara a ellos.  Así se prepararon para los eventos futuros que cambiarían la faz del mundo entero conocido, en unos 25 años, pasando los siguientes diez días en solemne oración.

Este tiempo de preparación al cuál le llamaremos un retiro de oración es el tiempo de la espera, orando y esperando el poder y guía del Espíritu Santo.  Una decisión difícil, o un trabajo muy duro nunca debería de atentarse sin antes orar primero al Espíritu Santo.  Necesitamos tomar el ejemplo de los apóstoles y no apresurarnos y esperar que todo salga bien.  Necesitamos preguntarnos a nosotros mismos que tan seguido nos detenemos y oramos antes de hacer cualquier cosa o aún decir cualquier cosa.

Estos apóstoles habían estado con Jesús por tres años y habían visto muchos milagros y sin embargo sabían que les faltaba algo.  Jesús no quería que ellos fueran al mundo sin preparación.  El no quiere que vayamos nosotros sin preparación tampoco.  El nos ha dado Su Espíritu Santo quien nunca nos abandonará. Su poder es lo que usaremos para resistir a Satanás y hacerlo huir (Santiago 4:7).

 

1 PEDRO 4:13-16

            Hay muchos rumores en el mundo Cristiano ahora de que si  sigues a Cristo, serás feliz y vivirás una vida próspera.  Algunas gentes son atraídas a la fe Cristiana pensando que es como una póliza de seguro. Mucha gente piensa: si yo atiendo a misa cada semana, recibo todos los sacramentos y soy obediente a la iglesia, entonces llegaré al cielo sin mucho dolor.

Jesús mismo nos dice que El no tiene un lugar donde descansar Su cabeza, ni se preocupa por ser próspero. En el mensaje de ahora, Pedro les está diciendo a los nuevos conversos que estaremos en el cielo con Cristo, si cargamos las cruces que El nos manda.  Esta no es una teología de obras, este es un convenio de amor.  Nuestro amor por El es lo que nos sostendrá cuando seamos perseguidos por ser Cristianos.

Vivir la vida Cristiana no es el producto del hombre simple; es el producto de la naturaleza humana elevada a un plano más alto por medio de la gracia divina.  Los canales por los cuales recibimos Su gracia son las Escrituras.  En realidad no podemos decir que ser un Cristiano es algo severo, porque vemos como nuestro bautismo nos ha hecho hermanos y hermanas en Cristo y nos ha preparado para los otros sacramentos, entonces sabemos que nada nos puede separar del amor de Dios.  Ni la persecución, ni pruebas y condenas, ni siquiera la muerte misma nos separará del amor de Dios (Romanos 8:31-39).

Experimentar sufrimiento por ser Cristiano es causa de tremenda alegría.  Esto significa que eres de Cristo, no del mundo.  Debo de decir que tenemos que orar y discernir, que el sufrimiento por el que estás pasando resulta por que estás haciendo la voluntad de Dios y no tu voluntad.  Debemos recordar todos que nuestro tiempo aquí en la tierra no es más que un momento en la eternidad, pero nuestro tiempo que vamos a pasar con Cristo en el cielo será eterno y esos son las “Buenas Nuevas.”

 

 

JUAN 17:1-11

Este pasaje del Evangelio de Juan es una oración de Jesús.  Nosotros podemos ver que el mundo es un campo de batalla y las fuerzas bajo el poder de Satanás son manejadas por el odio implacable a Jesús y todos sus seguidores.  Nunca debemos olvidar que estamos encerrados en una batalla espiritual y que nosotros, por nosotros mismos, no somos ningún reto para Satanás.  Somos llamados a ponernos nuestra armadura espiritual (Efe. 6:10-18) y estar listos.

De nuevo miramos a Jesús yendo a Su Padre en oración.  El oró al Padre para que protegiera a Sus seguidores y esa protección se extiende ahora a ti y a mí.  Nosotros respondemos a esa protección por medio de nuestra vida en oración, nuestro estudio de las Escrituras y la recepción de los sacramentos.  El nos hará santos y nos unirá en Su verdad si nosotros habitamos en El y guardamos Sus mandamientos (Juan 15:7).

Jesús nos está diciendo que la vida eterna es entrar en una relación personal con Su Padre por medio de El mismo.  La vida eterna requiere que nosotros entremos en una relación personal con Dios en Cristo Jesús.  Cuando finalmente aceptamos que somos pecadores (Romanos 2:23), y apartamos nuestras vidas del pecado (arrepentimiento), el amor de Cristo vive en nosotros por medio del Espíritu Santo.  Vemos a Jesús pidiéndole al Padre que lo restaure a Su lugar original ahora que Su tiempo de estar en la tierra está llegando rápidamente al final.  Necesitamos darnos cuenta que la resurrección y ascensión de Jesús fueron prueba de que ésta oración fue en verdad contestada totalmente.  Jesús dijo que Sus discípulos son Su gloria y que, por supuesto, significa que nosotros, quienes hemos decidido seguir a Jesús también.

Que bendición tan grande es que Jesús pueda hallar gloria en nuestras vidas.  Es un signo de aliento para todos nosotros.  Si te has desprendido o hasta retirado de Cristo, ahora es el tiempo para regresar a El. Su oración al Padre fue por todos Sus hermanos y hermanas.  Recuerda que El fue a la cruz sabiendo muy bien que habría muchos pecadores quienes ni siquiera se daban cuenta de lo que El iba a hacer.  El también sabía que nos dejaría Su Espíritu para que nos habilitará a pelear contra Satanás (Juan 14:16).  Su muerte en esa cruz ganó para nosotros el derecho de ser llamados hijos e hijas del Altísimo, y El quiere que todos los que creemos en El tengamos vida eterna.  Su gloria llena y verdadera es compartir con todos nosotros, quienes creemos en El, la realidad de ver y dar alabanza y gloria a Su Padre celestial.  Debemos recordar que el mensaje de Jesús fue, “No he perdido ninguno de los que me has dado.”  ¡Así es que regresa!  “Abba” está esperando.

 

Aplicación

La primera lectura nos dice que la primera comunidad Cristiana se dedicaba a la oración.  La segunda lectura nos dice que aquellos que sufren debido a que son justos están muy bendecidos. El Evangelio revela que todo lo que era del Padre fue también de Jesús en su hora de gloria.

Esta semana permite que te llene la presencia de Dios en tu casa trabajo o escuela.  Que el poder de la oración transforme tus actitudes y tu conducta esta semana.  Hazte el propósito tú mismo de empezar cada mañana con unos momentos de silencio a solas con El Señor.  A la mitad del día toma otros momentos para hacer lo mismo.  Antes de irte a dormir revisa tu día con El Señor y duérmete teniéndolo a El en la mente.

 

LA ASCENSION (May 18th or 21st) – CICLO A

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El Pan de Vida – Estudio de Biblia Catolico

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

ANTES DE COMENZAR:

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

SEGUNDO DIA                             LEE HECHOS 1:1-11                    PRIMERA LECTURA

(“Se presentó vivo ante ellos”)

 1. ¿De qué se trató antes de que Jesús fuera Ilevado al cielo? Hechos 1:1

 

  1. ¿Cómo instruyó Jesús a los Apóstoles que había escogido? Hechos 1:2

 

  1. ¿Después de que Jesús sufrió, que les mostró a Sus Apóstoles y cómo se los mostró? Hechos 1:3

 

Personal – ¿Cómo te has convencido de que Jesús está vivo hoy día?

 

  1. ¿Por qué les dijo Jesús a sus discípulos que no se alejaran de Jerusalén? Hechos 1:3

 

  1. ¿Con qué bautizó Juan y que pasaría en unos cuantos días? Hechos 1:5

 

  1. ¿Qué le preguntaron los Apóstoles a Jesús y que les dijo El? Hechos 1:6-7

 

  1. ¿Qué les dijo Jesús que recibirían cuando el Espíritu Santo descendiera sobre ellos y qué  Los haría esto? Hechos 1:8

 

  1. ¿Al estar los Apóstoles mirando, qué le pasó a Jesús y cómo pasó esto? Hechos 1:9

 

  1. ¿Cuándo estaban mirando quién se les apareció y qué dijeron? Hechos 1:10-11

 

  1. ¿Cómo bajará el Señor y que les pasará a los que estén vivos, los que creen en El?  1 Tesalonicenses 4:16-17

 

Personal – ¿Cómo te estás preparando para el regreso de Jesús?

 

TERCER DIA                               LEE EFESIOS 1:17-23                   SEGUNDA LECTURA

(¿“Qué es ésta extraordinaria fuerza que actúa a favor de los que hemos creído?”)

  1. ¿Qué le está pidiendo Pablo a Nuestro Señor Jesucristo, el Padre de la Gloria que te dé? Efesios 1:17

 

  1. ¿Cuáles son las tres cosas que quiere que sepa tu mirada interior, los ojos de tu corazón?   Efesios 1:18-19

 

  1. ¿Qué representan tus ojos, y si tus ojos son buenos que será tu cuerpo? Mateo 6:22

 

  1. ¿Cuál es la antorcha para nuestros pies y la luz de nuestro camino? Salmo 119:105

 

  1. ¿Cómo es está extraordinaria fuerza para los que hemos creído? Efesios 1:19-20

 

  1. ¿Dónde está sentado Cristo? Efesios 1:20-21

 

  1. ¿Qué ha puesto Dios bajo los pies de Jesús y qué lo ha hecho mas arriba de la Iglesia, Su cuerpo?  Efesios 1:22

 

  1. ¿Quién es la cabeza de todo hombre; quién es la cabeza de la mujer y quién es la cabeza de Cristo? 1 Corintios 11:3

 

  1. ¿De qué hay solo uno? Efesios 4:4

 

  1. ¿Cómo se construye el cuerpo de Cristo? Efesios 4:11-12

 

Personal – ¿Cómo se han iluminado los ojos de tu corazón con la grandeza extraordinaria de Su poder en ti?

 

 

CUARTO DIA                              LEE MATEO 28:16-20                               EVANGELIO

“Enséñenles a cumplir todo lo que les he encomendado.”

  1. ¿Quién fue a Galilea y por qué razón fueron ahí? Mateo 28:16

 

  1. ¿Quién les dijo a los discípulos donde podían encontrar a Jesús? Mateo 28:1, 7 y 10

 

Personal – ¿Cómo ves el papel de la mujer en el plan de salvación de Dios de acuerdo a la pregunta de arriba?

 

  1. ¿Cuando los discípulos vieron a Jesús, ¿qué hicieron aquellos que habían tenido dudas? Mateo 28:17

 

  1. ¿Qué le dijo Jesús a Tomás? Juan 20:29

 

  1. ¿Qué les dijo Jesús a sus discípulos que le había sido dado en el cielo y en la tierra? Mateo 28:18

 

  1. ¿Qué les dijo Jesús a sus discípulos que hicieran? Mateo 28:19
  2. ¿Quiénes dijo Jesús que son sus discípulos? Juan 8:31

 

  1. ¿En nombre de quién debían bautizar los discípulos? Mateo 28:19

 

  1. ¿Qué debían enseñar los discípulos? Mateo 28:20

 

  1. ¿Sobre cuál discípulo dijo Jesús que edificaría Su Iglesia y confiaría las llaves del reino del cielo? Mateo 16:16-19

 

  1. ¿Qué dijo Jesús que haría y por cuánto tiempo? Mateo 28:20

 

Personal – ¿A quién has sido tu llamado a enseñar lo que has aprendido de la Palabra de Dios, y bajo la autoridad de quien lo estás haciendo?

 

 

QUINTO DIA                                    LEE SALMO 47:2-3, 6-9

(“Dios se sienta en su trono entre voces alegres”)

Lee y medita el Salmo 47:2-3, 6-9.

 

¿Qué te dice el Señor personalmente por medio del Salmo?

 

¿Cómo puedes aplicar esto en tu vida?

 

 

SEXTO DIA                          LEE TODO EL COMENTARIO

                                                            HECHOS 1:1-11

Este pasaje empieza con Lucas hablándole al oficial Romano Ilamado Teófilo. Lucas se estaba refiriendo a que el trabajo de Jesús continua en los Hechos de los Apóstoles a través del poder del Espíritu Santo.

Los Hechos son Ilamados por muchos, el quinto Evangelio ya que habla acerca de las vidas y los eventos de la nueva Iglesia. Jesús mostró a los Apóstoles después de Su sufrimiento y muerte, Sus muchas heridas. Les dio muchas pruebas convincentes de que estaba vivo. Les dijo que entonces recibirían al Espíritu Santo y recibirían poder y vendrían a ser Sus testigos por toda la tierra. Luego fue ascendido delante de sus propios ojos y una nube lo cubrió de su vista.

Hoy, El todavía está vivo en el Poder que vive dentro de Su Iglesia y dentro de ti como miembro de la comunidad de Sus discípulos. Tu has venido a ser un Templo de ese Poder debido a tu Bautismo y Confirmación. El Poder que partió el Mar Rojo para Moisés vive dentro de ti. El Poder que bautizó a Jesús en el Río Jordán vive dentro de ti. El esta vivo y vive en ti, esperando ser dado gratuitamente al que sufre, al que está perdido, al enfermo, al que está solo, al cautivo por todos los confines de la tierra.

 

EFESIOS 1:17-23

            En este pasaje San Pablo ora y da gracias por los dones que han sido dados a los creyentes. Hoy se nos recuerda a nosotros dar gracias a Dios por los dones de sabiduría y conocimiento que están a nuestra disposición. Crecemos en sabiduría y conocimiento a través de la oración, las escrituras, los sacramentos y las enseñanzas de la Iglesia Católica. A esto le sigue un orden de disciplina y humildad.

Nuestra esperanza para el futuro no es un sentimiento ambiguo, por lo contrario, es una completa seguridad de la victoria a través del poder del Espíritu Santo y en el nombre de Jesucristo. Vemos a muchos por todos lados temiendo un desastre nuclear, una desintegración de las computadoras y un colapso de la moral. Debemos recordar siempre que pertenecemos al Dios del Universo, quien resucitó a Jesucristo de entre los muertos. El gran poder de Dios está a nuestra disposición para ayudarnos hoy a través del Espíritu Santo en la comunidad de fe. Las Escrituras nos dicen que con Dios nada es imposible (Filipenses 4:13). Pablo nos dice en la escritura, que no tenemos que temerle a nada ni a nadie pues nada puede separarnos de Dios y de Su amor (Romanos 8:31-39).

Cuando hablamos de la plenitud de la Iglesia Católica, estamos hablando sobre Cristo colmando a la Iglesia con dones y bendiciones. La Iglesia es en sí misma la expresión total de Cristo quien es El Mismo, la plenitud de Dios (Efesios 3:19). La imagen del cuerpo representa la unidad de la Iglesia. No debemos intentar trabajar, servir o dar adoración por nuestra propia cuenta. En el Cuerpo de Cristo no hay “Ilaneros solitarios.” Cada uno de nosotros está involucrado con todos los demás al ir trabajando por Dios en la tierra.

 

MATEO 28:16-20

Esta fiesta es de alegría, de consolación y por supuesto de esperanza para cualquiera que sea un verdadero creyente.

Celebramos el día de fiesta con la firmeza de Su promesa de estar siempre con nosotros y con el poder de Su comisión de evangelizar.  Sabemos que la muerte terrena nos espera a cada uno de nosotros, pero debido a Su promesa, también sabemos que ese no es el fin de nosotros, más bien es el principio.  La fiesta de hoy es un recordatorio de este hecho consolador.

Te invito a imaginar a los once discípulos yendo a la montaña en Galilea así como Jesús los había dirigido por medio de las mujeres en la tumba (Mateo 28:10).  Cuando lo vieron, muchos cayeron de rodillas y lo adoraron, aún esos que tenían dudas.

Sus últimas palabras y aparición en la tierra todavía resuenan con autoridad y poder.  Les dijo que toda la autoridad en el cielo y en la tierra le había sido dada.  Les dio acceso al poder cuando le confió a Pedro las llaves del reino del cielo y la dirección de Su Iglesia en la tierra (Mateo 16:16-19).  Esta autoridad ha sido pasada desde Pedro a la sucesión de los Papas en la Iglesia.

Hoy en día la Iglesia nos enseña con la misma autoridad y poder para ir y hacer discípulos de todas las naciones.  Jesús les dijo que bautizaran en el Nombre del Padre y del Hijo y del Espíritu Santo.  Termina diciendo a Sus discípulos que El estará con ellos siempre.  Nos está diciendo a nosotros el mismo mensaje hoy en día, debemos ir y hacer discípulos de todas las naciones y El estará con nosotros por siempre.  Ve adelante y haz lo correcto.

 

Aplicación

La primera lectura nos dice que los Apóstoles estaban mirando cuando Jesús fue levantado y que tú recibirás el poder cuando el Espíritu Santo venga sobre ti.  En la segunda lectura Dios sentó a Jesús a Su derecha en los cielos y le dio el mando sobre todas las cosas de la Iglesia, y en el Evangelio, hemos sido comisionados para hacer discípulos de todos, empezado con nuestras propias familias.

Esta semana vamos con alguien de nuestra familia, comunidad o parroquia a rezar con ellos y a proclamarles las Buenas Nuevas.  Quizá quieras preguntar a tu párroco como le puedes ayudar a cumplir esta gran comisión y hacer discípulos de todos sus feligreses.

SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (May 21st) ‑ CYCLE A

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BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

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

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

 

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

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

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY              READ ACTS 1:12‑14          FIRST READING

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

  1. What do the following scriptures say about prayer?

Mark 11:24

Philippians 4:6‑7

Colossians 4:2

1 Timothy 2:8

1 Timothy 4:4‑5

 

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

 

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

FOURTH DAY              READ JOHN 17:1‑11                GOSPEL

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

(“…your presence, O Lord, I seek.”)

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

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ACTS 1:12‑14

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

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

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

 

1 PETER 4:13‑16

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

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

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

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

 

JOHN 17:1‑11

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

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

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

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

 

Application

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

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

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

 

 

THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD (May 18th or 21st) – CYCLE A

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BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

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

 

FIRST DAY                                                      Reread last weeks readings.

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

 

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

 

SECOND DAY                                   READ ACTS 1:1-11

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

  1. How will the Lord come down from heaven and what will happen to the living, the believers in Him? 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

 

 

Personal – How are you preparing for Jesus’ return?

 

 

 

THIRD DAY                               READ EPHESIANS 1:17-23                SECOND READING

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

  1. There is one what? Ephesians 4:4

 

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

 

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

 

 

FOURTH DAY                           READ MATTHEW 28:16-20                                     GOSPEL

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY                      READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ACTS 1:1-11

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

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

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

 

EPHESIANS 1:17-23

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

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

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

 

 

MATTHEW 28:16-20

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

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

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

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

 

 

Application

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

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

 

Lectio Divina – 7th Sunday of Easter (May 21st)

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

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

OPEN WITH THE FOLLOWING PRAYER:

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

READ, REFLECT AND WRITE – John 17:1-11 – Jesus raised His eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Give glory to your son, so that your son may glorify you, just as you gave him authority over all people, so that your son may give eternal life to all you gave him. Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ. I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do. Now glorify me, Father, with you, with the glory that I had with you before the world began.

“I revealed your name to those whom you gave me out of the world. They belonged to you, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. Now they know that everything you gave me is from you, because the words you gave to me I have given to them, and they accepted them and truly understood that I came from you, and they have believed that you sent me. I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for the ones you have given me, because they are yours, and everything of mine is yours and everything of yours is mine, and I have been glorified in them. And now I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world, while I am coming to you.”

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

SEXTO DOMINGO DE PASCUA (May 14th) – CICLO A

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El Pan de Vida – Estudio de Biblia Catolico

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

ANTES DE COMENZAR:

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

 

CUARTO DIA                              LEE JUAN 14:15-21                                             EVANGELIO

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

  1. ¿Qué es lo que dice Jesús a sus discípulos que hará y que no hará? Juan 14:18
  2. ¿Quién no lo verá más y quién lo verá como uno que tiene qué? Juan 14:19

 

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

 

  1. ¿Quién es el hombre que ama a Jesús y cómo se comporta? Juan 14:21 y  1 Juan 2:5-6
  2. ¿Quién amará a quién ame a Jesús? Juan 14:21 y Juan 16:27

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

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

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

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

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

 

¿Cómo puedes aplicar esto a tu vida diaria?

 

 

 

SEXTO DIA                                LEE TODO EL COMENTARIO

                                                              HECHOS 8:5-8, 14-17

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

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

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

 

1 PEDRO 3:15-18

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

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

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

 

 

JUAN 14:15-21

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

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

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

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

 

Aplicación

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

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

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (May 14th) ‑ CYCLE A

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THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

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

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

 

 

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

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

 

 

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

 

 

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

FOURTH DAY             READ JOHN 14:15‑21                GOSPEL

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ACTS 8:5‑8, 14‑17

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

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

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

 

1 PETER 3:15‑18

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

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

 

JOHN 14:15‑21

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

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

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

 

Application

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

 

Lection Divina – The Ascension of the Lord (May 18th or May 21st)

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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 – Matthew 28:16-20 – The Eleven Disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had ordered them. When they saw him, they worshiped, but they doubted. Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

Lectio Divina – 6th Sunday of Easter (May 14th)

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

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

OPEN WITH THE FOLLOWING PRAYER:

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

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

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?