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Lectio Divina – 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Jan. 29th) – Cycle A

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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 ON THE GOSPEL OF THE DAY

Matthew 5:1-12 – When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.”

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Jan. 29th) – CYCLE A

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THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

by Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

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 ZEPHANIAH 2:3, 3:12-13     FIRST READING

(“Seek the Lord all you humble of the Lord.”)

  1. Who must seek the Lord? Zephaniah 2:3

 

  1. What happens to those who humble themselves?

2 Chronicles 7:14

Job 22:29

Psalm 25:9

Proverbs 3:34

Proverbs 11:2

Sirach 3:18

1 Peter 5:5

 

  1. What happens to those who do not humble themselves?

2 Chronicles 33:23, 24

Sirach 10:15

Isaiah 13:11

Daniel 4:34

 

  1. What does it mean to humble yourself?

Ezra 8:21

Sirach 2:17

Sirach 18:20

Philippians 2:3-5

 

  1. What happens to God through those that are humble? Sirach 3:19

 

  1. From whom do we learn to become humble? Matthew 11:25, 29

 

  1. How should Christians act toward one another? 1 Peter 3:8

 

Personal – Read Philippians 2:3, 4. Put your name in the following first and third blank spaces, and insert the name of a person you have the most trouble getting along with, in the second and fourth blank spaces:

 

(1)_________, never act out of rivalry or conceit; rather think humbly of (2)__________as superior to (3)_________, looking to (4)__________interest rather than to my own.

 

  1. What three things must they seek? Zephaniah 2:3

 

  1. What may happen to these people on the day of the Lord’s anger?  Zep 2:3. Also see Psalm 2:11, on how not to be      affected by God’s anger

 

  1. What will he leave in your midst and in what shall they take refuge?   Zephaniah 3:12

 

  1. What three things shall they not do, and what shall they do?      Zephaniah 3:13

 

Personal – Are you one of God’s remnants? Do others see you as one of his remnants? What can you do to better glorify God? Meditate on this.

 

 

THIRD DAY          READ 1 CORINTHIANS 1:26-31    SECOND READING

(“If anyone wants to boast, let him boast about the Lord.”)

  1. Who are among those called, and what are they to consider?     1 Corinthians 1:26

 

  1. What are these brothers not considered? 1 Corinthians 1:26

 

Personal – Who do you consider the well-born today? Who are the influential?

 

  1. Who did God choose to shame the wise, and who did God single out of this world to do what? 1 Corinthians 1:27

 

  1. How does the world see these people, and what was God’s reason for choosing the low born?   1 Corinthians 1:27-29

 

  1. Who has God chosen according to James 2:5?

 

  1. Who has given us life in Christ Jesus? 1 Corinthians 1:30

 

  1. Was this new life in Christ Jesus accomplished by anything we have done? Ephesians 2:8-9

 

  1. Fill in the following blanks: He has made him our ________ and also our _________, our _________________and our

_____________ (1 Corinthians 1:30)

 

  1. Who gives wisdom, what is wisdom, and to whom does God give wisdom?   1 Kings 5:9, Ephesians 1:9, Job 28:28, Psalm 19:8

 

  1. As Jesus grew in size and strength with what was he filled?      Luke 2:40

 

  1. With what does righteousness begin and end, and how will we receive justice?  Romans 1:17, Luke 18:7

 

  1. What leads us to righteousness, and what must we do with our      bodies to sanctify them?   Romans 6:16-19

 

  1. How have we been sanctified? Hebrews 10:10

 

  1. How have we been redeemed? Ephesians 1:7

 

  1. How did we deserve to be justified by the gift of God through the redemption of Christ? Romans 3:24

 

Personal – At times, how do you find yourself boasting about your accomplishments? Think about this today, and when you begin to do this, discipline your mind to think on what Jesus has done for you in that situation.

 

 

FOURTH DAY             READ MATTHEW 5:1-12               GOSPEL

(“Happy are the poor in spirit.”)

  1. When Jesus went up on the mountainside and sat down, who gathered around him?  Matthew 5:1

 

  1. What did Jesus begin to do, and where did Jesus do his teaching?

Matthew 5:1-2

Mark 1:21

Mark 4:1

Luke 5:3

 

Personal – How and where do you teach about God’s ways? How can you follow Jesus’ example to teach whenever a need arises? In what way have you learned about how Jesus acted in certain situations to be able to share that with your spouse, your children, your friends, and those with whom you work?

 

  1. Who did Jesus tell his disciples would teach them when he was not there?   Luke 12:12

 

  1. Whose is the kingdom of God? Matthew 5:3; Luke 6:20

 

  1. Who shall be consoled? Matt 5:4; Luke 6:21; Psalm 126:5

 

  1. Who shall inherit the land? Matt 5:5; Psalm 37:11; Proverbs 2:21

 

  1. What will happen to those who hunger and thirst for holiness? Matt 5:6, Luke 6:21, Proverbs 21:21

 

  1. Mercy shall be whose, and who shall see God? Matt 5:7-8

 

  1. Who shall be called sons of God, and to whom does the reign of God belong?  Matthew 5:9-10, 1 Peter 2:20

 

  1. Whose reward is great in heaven? Matthew 5:12

 

  1. When being persecuted, how should we act? Whom did they persecute before us and in what way?  Matt 5:12, James 1:2, 2 Chronicles 36:16

 

 

FIFTH DAY              READ PSALM 146:6-10

(“The Lord sets captives free.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 146:6-10.

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

ZEPHANIAH 2:3, 3:12-13

The “day of Yahweh” was coming, the day when God would punish all disobedient nations. Judah, because of her pride and rebelliousness, was very much included. A small remnant of God’s people would survive the day of wrath if they became obedient to God’s commands. This same warning is issued for our benefit today. The chosen people (the Israelites) did not really believe this prophecy and their nation was subjected to incredible violence. We are that remnant today and we are called more than ever to bring his Word to those around us. Many people today are still waiting for a Messiah who will bring them recognition, wealth and power.

When Jesus finally came they were not ready for him and resented him. They condemned him to death on the cross. That cross became the banner around which the few faithful Jews and Gentiles (remnant) rallied. His kingdom on earth spread and in just 30 years after his death, Christianity was known and practiced in the entire civilized world.

Today the world is turning more and more into a pagan world, and the warnings of Zephaniah are ringing in our ears. God is opposed to the proud and arrogant of every generation. He will always bless and protect the poor and the humble because they believe in him. Self-reliance and arrogance found no place in God’s kingdom then and neither will it find any place in God’s kingdom today. Zephaniah shows us that only when we faithfully follow and obey God’s Word can we really ever be truly happy.

The Good Shepherd looks over his flock and provides them with the protection that they need. They know they can lie down in safety and rest in peace because he is always present among them. We need not fear any man or nation because Jesus tells us that through him, all things are possible (Philippians 4:13).

 

1 CORINTHIANS 1:26-31

Paul tells us how fortunate we are to have a God who loves us so much that he chose to become just like us in every way but sin. He tells us that God calls us to be one of his children, not because of what we have done or what we may own or even how smart we may be. In fact, God has made salvation available to all, especially the lowly and humble. All anyone needs is faith in order to be saved. Salvation comes from believing that Jesus Christ died so that all of our sins would be washed away by his blood. Jesus’ death allowed us to become holy and spotless before God. We are justified in faith by what Jesus did on that cross, not by anything we ever did. This is tremendously Good News for us, especially those of us who are struggling in our own lives through sickness, poverty, tyranny or being from the wrong side of town. It’s incredible to realize that Jesus came to earth to die for all men and women, rich or poor, weak or strong, young or old.

Not everyone accepted Jesus and the result is that many are searching in the wrong direction for the peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Faith is a response to the power and presence of the living God in our lives. Salvation is free, but it is not inherited. Each one of us has to personally accept the invitation from Christ. Paul’s words are great comfort and hope to the people in our world today. Much of the world is suffering through famine, tyranny, and lack of respect for human dignity. Jesus is present among all of us and he seeks out the oppressed and offers them full partnership in his kingdom in heaven and encourag­es all of us to bring that kingdom into reality here on earth now.

 

MATTHEW 5:1-12

Jesus gave this sermon on a hillside near Capernaum, and it is believed that this “Sermon on the Mount” probably lasted several days. Jesus broke through the traditional view of the law and talked about the attitudes of men. He stressed that it is as important to be, as to do. We might even call them “The Be-Attitudes” of Christianity. Tremendous crowds were following Jesus, he was the talk of everyone. He preached with such simpleness and yet with much authority.

The disciples were Jesus’ closest companions, and all of this attention certainly must have made them feel important, popular and maybe even prideful. Being with Jesus gave them plenty of notoriety, as well as being faith healers of a sort. Jesus warned them about the temptations they would face as his associates, and some think his sermon on the mount may have been directed to his disciples, as well as everyone else in the crowd.

We hear a lot of comments today that if you follow Jesus’ teaching, you will be successful, healthy, wealthy and wise. Jesus really tells us to expect not fame or fortune; but to expect mourning, hunger, and persecution. Jesus tells us not to look for our reward in this life. We will be rewarded but not necessarily here on earth. The beatitudes are a standard of conduct for all Christian believers. There is a strong contrast in values. The kingdom values deal with eternal life and worldly values deal with what is temporary. They contrast the superficial faith of the Pharisees with the real faith Jesus wants.

Today we are faced with the same challenge. We need to really take a look at our values and see if they are worldly values or kingdom values. The beatitudes cannot be a multiple choice, pick what you want and leave the rest. To be a real follower of Christ these have to be your be-attitudes.

 

Applications

The first reading talks about a day of warm healing for the humble and a day of wrath for the proud. The second reading shows us how God has chosen ordinary people to be eligible for salvation. In the Gospel, we hear the attitudes of Christ are to be our attitudes.

This week, let us reach out and give comfort to someone in our family. It might be nothing more than a letter of sympathy or a get well card. It could also be visiting someone who has lost a loved one and who is lonely.

 

TERCER DOMINGO DEL TIEMPO ORDINARIO (22 de enero) – CICLO A

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El Pan de Vida – Estudio de Biblia Católico

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                                     ISAIAS 8:23-9:3                           PRIMERA LECTURA

(“La gente que caminaba en tinieblas ha visto una gran luz.”)

  1. ¿Cuáles tierras ha degradado Dios? Ve si puedes localizar estas tierras en el mapa de la Biblia   Isaías 8:23

 

  1. ¿Qué pasó al final? ¿Qué tierra ha glorificado? y ¿Qué será quitado?  Isaías 8:22, 23

 

  1. ¿Qué pasó con la gente que caminaba en tinieblas? Isaías 9:1

 

  1. ¿Quién ilumina la oscuridad que hay a nuestro alrededor? 2 Samuel 22:29

 

  1. ¿Qué debemos hacer para salir de las tinieblas y entrar a la luz de acuerdo a las siguientes escrituras:

Isaías 58:10

Juan 8:12

Hechos 26:18

Romanos 13:12-14

 

Personal – ¿Cómo has salido de la oscuridad y entrado en la luz?  1 Pedro 2:9 dice: “Ustedes, sin embargo, son una raza elegida, un reino de sacerdotes, una nación consagrada, un pueblo que Dios eligió para que fuera suyo y proclamara los trabajos gloriosos del que los llamó de las tinieblas hacia su luz admirable.” Medita esto.

 

  1. ¿Qué les ha traído El, o cuál es el resultado de caminar en la luz? Isaías 9:2

 

  1. ¿Cómo experimentaron las siguientes personas esta alegría abundante y en quién la encontraron?

David (Salmo 16:7-11)

María (Lucas 1:46-47)

Juan Bautista (Juan 3:29-30)

Pablo (Filipenses 1:18)

 

  1. ¿Qué los había agobiado? Isaías 9:3

 

  1. ¿Qué nos dice Jesús acerca de su yugo? Mateo 11:28-30

 

Personal – ¿De qué modo has encontrado que la vida es pesada y agobiadora?  Escribe el versículo anterior y medita sobre él.

 

  1. ¿Qué fue aplastado y qué comparación se hace aquí? Isaías 9:3, Éxodo 18:1

 

TERCER DIA                              1 CORINTIOS 1:10-13, 17                    SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“En el nombre de nuestro Señor Jesucristo pónganse de acuerdo.”)

  1. ¿A quién se está apelando, por quién y en nombre de quién? 1 Corintios 1:1, 10

 

  1. ¿Qué les está rogando Pablo que hagan? 1 Corintios 1:10

 

  1. ¿Cómo estamos unidos en Cristo? Romanos 6:1-5

 

  1. ¿En las siguientes escrituras qué nos une mentalmente?

1 Corintios 5:4

Filipenses 2:2-4

Colosenses 2:2

 

  1. ¿De qué fue informado Pablo y por quién? 1 Corintios 1:11

 

  1. Apunta los nombres de los cuatro hombres acerca de los cuales la gente decía que se habían dividido y escribe quienes eran ellos.   1 Corintios 1:12

 

  1. _____________________________________Juan 1:36, 41
  2. _____________________________________Juan 1:42
  3. _____________________________________Hechos 18:24-25
  4. _____________________________________1 Corintios 1:1

 

  1. ¿Cuál fue la respuesta de Pablo acerca de lo que ellos discutían? 1 Corintios 1:13

 

  1. ¿Qué nos dice la Palabra de Dios acerca de las discusiones? Romanos 13:12-13

 

Personal – ¿Cómo te previenes para no discutir con otros sobre la Palabra de Dios?  Por medio del estudio de Su Palabra te encontrarás discutiendo menos y basándote más en las verdades de Su Palabra.

 

  1. ¿Quién mando a Pablo y que le mandó hacer? 1 Corintios 1:17

 

  1. ¿Cómo no debía predicar el Evangelio? 1 Corintios 1:17, 1 Corintios 2:4

 

  1. ¿Qué le hubiera pasado a la cruz si Pablo hubiera predicado con “sabiduría mundana?”   1 Corintios 1:17

 

Personal – ¿Cuando hablas de Dios con tu familia, amistades y compañeros de trabajo, acerca de qué les hablas?  ¿Terminas en discusiones y argumentos o haces lo que hizo Pablo en 1 Corintios 2:1-5?  Reflexiónalo.

 

CUARTO DIA                              MATEO 4:12-23                                                   EVANGELIO

(“Arrepiéntanse por que el Reino de Dios se ha acercado.”)

 

  1. ¿Qué había escuchado Jesús y qué hizo? Mateo 4:12

 

  1. ¿A dónde se fue cuando oyó las noticias acerca de Juan? Mateo 4:13

 

  1. ¿Cuál fue la razón para ir ahí? Mateo 4:14

 

  1. ¿Qué empezó Jesús a proclamar desde ese momento? Mateo 4:17

 

  1. ¿Cuál era el mensaje de Juan para prepararse para la venida de Jesús? Mateo 3:2

 

  1. ¿Qué dijo Jesús que está a la mano? Mateo 4:17, Lucas 17:20-21

 

Personal – ¿Qué quiere decir para ti, reformar tu vida?  ¿Qué piensas que quiere decir “El Reino del Cielo está a la mano”?  ¿Hay áreas en tu vida que necesitan cambios?  Siéntate frente a tu Padre Celestial y háblale acerca de esto.

 

  1. ¿Dónde estaba caminando Jesús y qué estaba mirando? Mateo 4:18

 

  1. ¿Qué les dijo a los dos hermanos? Mateo 4:19

 

  1. ¿Qué dijo Dios por medio del profeta Jeremías? Jeremías 16:16

 

Personal – ¿Qué debemos hacer para volvernos pescadores de hombres?  Llena los espacios: Jesús les dijo:    “______________ y los haré pescadores de hombres.”  Mateo 4:19

 

  1. ¿Cuál fue la respuesta de Pedro y Andrés a la invitación de Jesús? ¿Se detuvieron a pensar en ella?   Mateo 4:20

 

  1. ¿Mientras que Jesús caminaba, en que se fijó? Mateo 4:21

 

  1. ¿Qué estaban haciendo los dos hermanos y quién estaba con ellos? Mateo 4:21

 

  1. Llena los espacios. Mateo 4:21-22 El_______________________________ _______________ y  ellos también _____________________________________________ y al padre y empezaron a

_________________________.

 

  1. ¿Qué lugar recorría Jesús y qué hizo en las sinagogas? Mateo 4:23

 

  1. Hubo tres cosas que Jesús hacía de acuerdo con Mateo 4:23, ¿cuáles eran?

 

Personal – A la hora de tus oraciones a solas con Jesús, pídele que te enseñe Sus verdades por medio de Su Palabra.  Pídele que te ayude a entender las Buenas Nuevas de Su Reino y pídele el regalo de la sanación para que tu familia, amistades o compañeros de trabajo lleguen a conocerlo mejor.  Comparte esto con alguien.

 

 

QUINTO DIA                               LEE EL SALMO 27:1, 4, 13-14

(“El Señor es mi luz y mi salvación.”)

Lee y medita el Salmo 27:1, 4, 13-14.

¿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

ISAIAS 8:23 – 9:3

Este pasaje empieza con los resultados de Israel al haber sido invadido por los Asirios y termina con la profecía de Isaías acerca del Mesías venidero.  A Isaías el Señor le dio una profecía, la cuál decía que Israel y Siria, ambos enemigos formidables de Judea caerían bajo los Asirios.  Judea rechazó este aviso y experimentó la ira y el castigo de Dios.  A Isaías se le consideró hasta como un traidor porque le dijo a la gente que confiara solo en Dios, no en una nación poderosa que estaba hacía el norte.  El fue quien predijo la caída de Judea y miró a la nación hundirse en la oscuridad y el temor.

La gente rehusó consultar a Dios acerca de su futuro y hasta empezó a culpar a Dios por sus pruebas.  Hoy en día todavía hay mucha gente que culpa a Dios por sus problemas de salud, matrimonio, trabajo, etc.  Necesitamos preguntarnos a nosotros mismos porqué actuamos como la gente de la que habla la Escritura (Isaías 8:16-21) y tratamos de echarle la culpa a otros.  La oscuridad a la que la gente fue empujada no significaba necesariamente la muerte, puede significar desesperación, apuro, angustia, vencimiento o rechazo.  Isaías nos dirá en su profecía (9:1-6) que un Mesías va a venir y que la desesperación, tristeza y problemas van a terminar.

La gente de esos tiempos probablemente se sintió muy parecido a nosotros cuando estamos pasando por pruebas y nos preguntamos, ¿se acabará esto alguna vez?  Podemos decir solamente lo que dice el Salmo 23, “Aunque pase por quebradas muy obscuras no temo ningún mal, porque Tú estás conmigo, tu bastón y tu vara me protegen”.  El Señor nunca nos prometió que no habría problemas, pero sí prometió que El estaría ahí para pasar por ellos con nosotros y guiarnos a la seguridad.

Necesitamos ser así ahora y debemos seguirlo si vamos a ser guiados con seguridad durante los tiempos de tribulación y pruebas.  Dios promete una luz a todos aquellos que viven en el valle de la muerte y oscuridad y el nombre de esa luz es Jesús.

 

1 CORINTIOS 1:10-13, 17

Vemos en este pasaje que Pablo no era solamente un evangelista que predicaba la Palabra de Dios y ayudaba a formar comunidades Cristianas, sino que además tuvo un interés vivo toda su vida por el bien espiritual de éstas.  Y empieza por apelar a ellos como hermanos en el Señor, preguntémonos nosotros, cuando nos encontramos con discusiones y pleitos, ¿apelamos al que nos ha lastimado en el nombre del Señor?  Debemos de amar a nuestro hermano como a nosotros mismos (Mat.22:37) y esto quiere decir cuidarse uno al otro y estar listos a perdonarse uno al otro en el nombre del Señor.

La naturaleza humana es todavía la misma ahora, o sea que la gente esta todavía peleando por ser el más importante o el que merece mas reconocimiento.  La pasión de Jesús había pasado solamente unos cuantos años atrás y podemos ver que había facciones y divisiones entre los líderes de la iglesia.  El orgullo personal estaba interfiriendo en su deseo de seguir a Cristo en el camino al cielo.  El orgullo y ambición que es demostrado en el mensaje de hoy no solamente inflige daño en esa comunidad sino que ha dado pie a una división permanente en la iglesia Cristiana aún hoy en día.

Las divisiones en la iglesia son un escándalo para los seguidores de Cristo y un obstáculo tremendo para la conversión de los incrédulos, lo cuál es el resultado de las acciones de hombres orgullosos y arrogantes.  No podemos llamarnos a nosotros mismos humildes cuando olvidamos, que por nuestras acciones Cristo murió por todos nosotros y que El no está y no será dividido.  Estamos llamados todos a vivir la vida de Cristo quien debido a nuestro bautismo vive ahora dentro de nosotros.  Por medio de nuestras oraciones pidámosle a Dios que nos dé la gracia para unirnos en Su nombre salvador y traer Su amor a nuestro prójimo, lo cuál resultará en el trabajo de reunión entre Dios y todas sus criaturas.  De seguro que Dios oirá y responderá al llamado que viene de sus hijos humildes.

 

 

MATEO 4:12-23

Cuando Jesús oyó que Juan había sido encarcelado, salió de Judea y regresó a Nazaret, su ciudad natal.  No se estuvo ahí mucho tiempo por la oposición y apatía de la gente local.  El empezó su ministerio de predicar yendo de pueblo en pueblo.  Salió de Nazaret y se fue a Cafarnaún el cuál llegó a ser su base durante su ministerio en Galilea.  Cafarnaún era una ciudad muy activa y el mensaje de Jesús sería escuchado por mucha gente.  Ahí tendría más recursos y apoyo para su ministerio.  La profecía de Isaías (9:1-2) fue cumplida en el hecho de que Jesús fue la luz de la tierra de Zebulón y Neftalí, la región de Galilea en la que se localizaba Cafarnaún.

Mateo usa la frase “Reino del Cielo” por respeto a los Judíos porque en reverencia estos no pronunciaban el nombre de Dios.  Probablemente Jesús quería decir que el Reino de Dios está cerca, porque cuando Jesús mismo está en el corazón del hombre, el Reino de Dios está en el corazón del hombre, el Reino de Dios está definitivamente cerca.  Necesitamos saber que no tenemos que ir por todo el mundo y buscar para encontrar a Dios.  El está aquí dentro de nosotros, todo lo que tenemos que hacer es invocar Su nombre, confesar con nuestros labios y creer en nuestro corazón (Romanos 10:10-17).  Jesús comenzó su ministerio donde Juan Bautista lo dejó y el mensaje es el mismo ahora “Dejen el pecado y regresen a Dios”.  Cuando nos hacemos seguidores de Cristo volteamos la cara, dejamos, de estar centrados en nosotros mismos y de estar controlándonos a nosotros mismos.

Jesús llamó a los hermanos para que lo siguieran y se convirtieran en pescadores de hombres.  El te está llamando ahora para que hagas lo mismo.  ¿Vas a pescar o a cortar carnada?  Probablemente estos hombres ya habían oído hablar de Jesús por medio de sus predicaciones en el área pero después de experimentar personalmente su amor y escuchar su llamado, respondieron inmediatamente a su invitación. Jesús está enseñando, predicando y sanando ahora igual como lo hacía en el evangelio.  El está predicando las Buenas Nuevas ahora por medio de personas como tú y yo.  Decididamente El está sanado gente ahora, física, emocional, y espiritualmente.  Jesús predicó las Buenas Nuevas a todo el que quisiera escucharle.  Las Buenas Nuevas son que Dios se hizo hombre y que Dios está entre nosotros en la presencia del Espíritu Santo y que a El le importamos muchísimo.  Regocíjate y ponte alegre de que no hay un pecado o problema muy grande o muy chiquito que El no pueda solucionar.  Ahora, como en los días de Isaías, Jesús el Mesías es una “Luz para la tierra.”

 

Aplicación

La primera lectura llama al Mesías a ser “una luz para la tierra” para traer a Su gente fuera de la oscuridad.  Pablo nos dice en la segunda lectura que el orgullo y ambición han causado grandes obstáculos en la iglesia.  En el Evangelio escuchamos que el Reino de los Cielos está cerca porque Jesús se hace presente en nuestros corazones cuando El murió en la cruz para que podamos tener vida eterna.

Esta semana vamos a ser una luz para nuestra familia siendo extra cariñosos y compasivos.  Tal vez sea ofreciéndonos para cuidar los niños, lavando el coche de la familia, lavando la ropa, visitando un familiar enfermo o alguien que tu sabes que no tiene a nadie para que le cuide.

THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Jan. 22nd) ‑ 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 ISAIAH 8:23‑9:3        FIRST READING

(“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.”)

  1. What lands has he degraded? See if you can locate this on      your bible map Isaiah 8:23

 

  1. What happened in the end, what land has he glorified, and what shall be taken away?   Isaiah 8:23

 

  1. What happened to the people who walked in darkness? Isaiah 9:1

 

  1. Who brightens the darkness about us? 2 Samuel 22:29

 

  1. What must we do to come out of the darkness and into the light, according to the following scriptures:

Isaiah 58:10

John 8:12

Acts 26:18

Romans 13:12‑14.

Personal ‑ How have you come out of the darkness into the light? 1 Peter 2:9 states, “You, however, are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people he claims for his own to proclaim the glorious works of the one who called you from dark­ness into his marvelous light.” Meditate on this.

 

  1. What has he brought them or what is the result of walking in the light?   Isaiah 9:2

 

  1. How did the following experience this abundant joy and in whom did they find this joy?

 

David (Psalm 16:7‑11)

Mary (Luke 1:46-47)

John the Baptist (John 3:29‑30)

Paul (Philippians 1:18)

 

  1. What had burdened them? Isaiah 9:3

 

  1. What does Jesus tell us about his yoke? Matt 11:28‑30

 

Personal ‑ In what way have you found life become heavy and burden­some? Write out the above verse and meditate on it.

 

  1. What got smashed and what comparison is made here? Isaiah      9:3, Exodus 18:1

 

 

THIRD DAY        READ 1 CORINTHIANS 1:10‑13, 17   SECOND READING

(In the name of Our Lord Jesus Christ agree in what you say.”)

  1. Who is being appealed to, by whom, and in whose name? 1 Corinthians 1:1, 10

 

  1. What is Paul begging them to do? 1 Corinthians 1:10

 

  1. How are we united with Christ? Romans 6:1‑5

 

  1. What unites us in mind in the following scriptures?

1 Corinthians 5:4

Philippians 2:2‑4

Colossians 2:2

 

  1. What was Paul informed about and by whom? 1 Cor 1:11

 

  1. List the four men the people were quarreling over, and tell who they were. 1 Corinthians 1:12

 

  1. __________________________ John 1:36, 41

 

  1. __________________________ John 1:42

 

  1. __________________________ Acts 18:24‑25

 

  1. __________________________ 1 Corinthians 1:1

 

  1. What was Paul’s response to what they were quarreling about?   1 Corinthians 1:13

 

  1. What does God’s Word tell us about quarreling? Romans 13:12‑13

 

Personal ‑ How do you prevent yourself from quarreling with others over God’s Word? By studying his Word, you will find yourself quarreling less and standing more on the truths of his Word.

 

  1. Who sent Paul and what did he send him to do? 1 Corinthians 1:17

 

  1. How is he not to preach the Gospel? 1 Cor 1:17, 1 Corinthians 2:4

 

  1. What would happen to the cross if Paul spoke with “worldly wisdom? ” 1 Corinthians 1:17

 

Personal ‑ When you speak about God to your family, friends, work acquaintances, what do you talk about? Does it end up in quarreling and arguing or do you do as Paul did in 1 Cor. 2:1‑5? Re­flect on this.

 

FOURTH DAY             READ MATTHEW 4:12‑23               GOSPEL

(“Repent, the kingdom of God is close at hand.”)

  1. What did Jesus hear and what did he do? Matthew 4:12

 

  1. Where did he go when he heard the news about John? Matthew 4:13

 

  1. What was his reason for going there? Matthew 4:14

 

  1. What did Jesus begin to proclaim from that time on? Matthew 4:17

 

  1. What was John’s message in preparing for Jesus’ coming? Matthew 3:2

 

  1. What did Jesus say is at hand? Matthew 4:17, Luke 17:20‑21

 

Personal ‑ What does it mean to you to reform your life? What do you think “The kingdom of heaven is at hand” means? Do you have areas in your life that need changing? Sit before your heavenly Father and talk to him about this.

 

  1. Where was Jesus walking and what was he watching? Matthew 4:18

 

  1. What did he say to the two brothers? Matthew 4:19

 

  1. What did God say through the prophet Jeremiah? Jeremiah 16:16

 

Personal ‑ What must we do to become fishers of men? Fill in the blanks: __________ __________ ____________ and I will make you fishers of men. Matthew 4:19

 

  1. What was Peter and Andrew’s response to Jesus’ invitation and did they stop to think about it?   Matthew 4:20

 

  1. As Jesus walked along, what did he notice? Matthew 4:21

 

  1. What were the two brothers doing and who was with them?

 

  1. Fill in the blanks. Matthew 4:21-22.

He _________________them, and ______________ they abandoned

their boat and _______________to_________________him.

 

  1. Where did Jesus tour and what did he do in their synagogues? Matthew 4:23

 

  1. There were three things that Jesus did according to Matthew 4:23. What were they?

Personal ‑ In your prayer time alone with Jesus, ask him to teach you his truths through his Word. Ask him to help you understand the good news of the kingdom and ask him for the gift of healing so that those in your family, your friends and your work ac­quaintances may come to better know him. Share this with some­one.

 

 

FIFTH DAY           READ PSALM 27:1, 4, 13‑14

(“The Lord is my light and my salvation.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14.

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 8:23‑9:3

This passage begins with the results of Israel being invaded by Assyria and ends with Isaiah’s prophecy about the coming Messiah. Isaiah was given a prophecy by the Lord that Israel and Syria, both very strong enemies of Judah, would fall to the Assyrians. Judah rejected this warning and experienced God’s wrath and punishment. Isaiah was even considered a traitor because he told the people to trust only in God, not some power­ful conquering nation to the north. He even predicted the fall of Judah and watched the nation plunge into darkness and fear.

The people refused to consult God about their future and even began to blame God for their trials. Today many people still blame God for their problems of health, marriage, work, etc. We need to ask ourselves why do some act like the people in scripture (Is. 8:16‑21) and try to pass the blame off onto others. The darkness that the people were thrust into does not mean death necessarily, it may mean despair, trouble, anguish, defeat, rejection. Isaiah tells us in his prophecy (9:1‑6) that a Messiah is coming and despair, sorrow and trouble will come to an end.

The people in those times probably felt very much as most of us do when we are going through trials, and that is, will it ever end? We can say just what it says in Psalm 23, “Yeah, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, thou art with me, thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.” The Lord never promised us there would be no troubles, but he did promise that he would be right there to go through them with us, and lead us to safety.

We need to be like that today and we must follow him if we are to be led safely through the times of tribulation and trial. God promises a light to all those who live in the valley of the shadow of death and the light’s name is Jesus.

 

                   I CORINTHIANS 1:10‑13, 17

We see in today’s passage that Paul is not only an evangel­ist who preached God’s Word and helped form Christian community, but he also kept a life-time interest in their spiritual welfare. He begins by appealing to them as brothers in the Lord. We need to ask ourselves when we come up against quarreling or bickering, do we appeal to the one who has hurt us in the name of the Lord? We are to love our neighbor as ourself (Mt. 22:37) and that means to care about one another and to be ready to forgive one another in the name of the Lord.

Human nature is still the same today in that people are still fighting over who is the most important, or who deserves the most recognition. It had only been a few years since Jesus’ crucifix­ion, and factions and divisions were already forming in the new expanding church leaders. Personal pride was entering into their desire to follow Christ on the road to heav­en. The pride and ambition shown in today’s message not only inflicts damage on that community but it has given ground to long-standing division in the Christian church even today.

The divi­sions in the church are a scandal to the followers of Christ and a tremendous obstacle to the conversion of unbelievers, which is the result of the actions of proud and arro­gant men. We cannot call ourselves humble when we forget, by our actions, that Christ died for us all and that Christ is not and will not be divided. We are all being called to live out the life of Christ who, because of our baptism, now lives within us. In our prayers, we can ask God to give us the grace to come together in his saving name and bring his love to our neighbor which can result in the work of reunion between God and all of his children. God will surely hear and respond to the call that comes from his humble children.

 

MATTHEW 4:12‑23

When Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he left Judah and returned home to Nazareth, his hometown. He didn’t stay long because of opposition and apathy of the local hometown people. He began his preaching ministry by going from one small town to another. He left Nazareth and headed for Capernaum which was to become his home base during his ministry in Galilee. Capernaum was a very busy city and Jesus’ message would be heard by many people. He also would be able to have more resources and support for his ministry. Isaiah’s prophecy (9:1‑2) was fulfilled in that Jesus was the light to the land of Zebulun and Naphtali, the region of Galilee in which Capernaum was located.

Matthew uses the phrase “kingdom of heaven” out of respect to the Jews because in reverence they did not pronounce God’s name. Jesus probably meant the kingdom of heaven is near because when Jesus is in a man’s heart, the kingdom of God is definitely near. We need to know that we do not have to go out and search the wide world over to find God. He is right here within, and all we need to do is call out his name, confess with our lips and believe in our heart (Romans 10:10‑17). Jesus began his ministry where John the Baptist left off, and the message is the same today, “Turn from sin and turn to God.” When we become followers of Christ, we turn away from our self‑centeredness and self‑control.

Jesus called the brothers to come follow him and become fishers of men. He is calling us to do the same things. Are you going to fish or cut bait? These men probably had already heard about Jesus through his preaching in the area but after personally experienc­ing his love, and hearing his call, they immediately responded to the invitation.

Jesus is teaching, preaching, and healing today as much as he was in today’s Gospel. He is teaching us how to bring others to him and be saved. He is preaching the Good News through his people today, like you and me. He certainly is heal­ing people today, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Jesus preached the Good News to everyone who wanted to hear it. The Good News is that God became man, that God is with us in the Holy Spirit, and that he cares very much for us. Rejoice and be glad that there is no sin or problem too great or too small for him to handle. Today, as in the days of Isaiah, Jesus the Messi­ah is a “Light to the Land.”

 

 

Application

The first reading calls the Messiah to be “A light to the Land” to bring his people out of darkness. Paul tells us in the second reading that pride and ambition have caused great obstacles in the church. In the Gospel, we hear the kingdom of heaven is near because Jesus becomes present in our hearts when he died on the cross so that we might have eternal life.

This week, be a light to your family by being extra caring and compassion­ate. It could be volunteering to baby sit, wash the family car, do laundry, visit a sick relative or someone else you know that has no one else to care for them.

Lectio Divina – 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (Jan. 22nd) – Cycle A

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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 4:12-23 – When Jesus heard that John had had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee. He left Nazareth and went to live in Capernaum by the sea, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali, that what had been said through Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled. Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles, the people who sit in darkness have seen a great light, on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death light has arisen. As he was walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew, casting a net into the sea; they were fishermen. He said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him. He walked along from there and saw two other brothers, James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They were in a boat, with their father Zebedee, mending their nets. He called them, and immediately they left their boat and their father and followed him. He went around all of Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and curing every disease and illness among the people.

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

Lectio Divina – 2nd Sunday of Ordinary Time (Jan. 15th) – Cycle A

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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 ON THE GOSPEL OF THE DAY

John 1:29-34 – John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. He is the one of whom I said, ‘A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me because he existed before me.’ I did not know him, but the reason why I came baptizing with water was that he might be made known to Israel.” John testified further, saying, “I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from heaven and remain upon him. I did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain, he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God.”

 

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

SEGUNDO DOMINGO DEL TIEMPO ORDINARIO (15 de enero) – 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                                                           ISAIAS 62:1-5                                       PRIMERA LECTURA

                                                                                  (“Te llamarán Me gusta,”)

  1. ¿Por amor a quién no habrá silencio y hasta cuando? Isaías 62:1

 

  1. ¿A quién salvará el Señor, dónde estarán los que queden, y quién habita ahí? Joel 3:5 y Joel 4:21

 

  1. ¿Qué verán las naciones? ¿Cómo te llamarán? ¿Y quién te dará ese nombre? Isaías 62:2

 

  1. ¿Qué dice el Espíritu a las iglesias? Ver Apocalipsis 2:17 y 3:12

 

  1. ¿Qué serás en las manos del Señor? Isaías 62:3

 

  1. ¿Si caes quién te sostendrá? Salmo 37:24

 

  1. ¿De qué manera ya no te llamarán los hombres ni a tí ni a tu tierra? Isaías 62:4

 

  1. ¿En dónde ha escrito el Señor tu nombre? Isaías 49:14-16

 

  1. ¿Cómo serán llamados tú y tu tierra y qué hace el Señor por ambos? Isaías 62:4

 

  1. ¿Quién es tu esposo y cómo es éste llamado? Isaías 54:5

 

  1. ¿Con quién te desposarás y quién se regocijará en tí? Isaías 62:5

 

Personal – ¿Cuál ha sido tu respuesta al ser llamado “Me gusta” o lo que es lo mismo ser muy querido por el Señor? Pasa un tiempo a solas y medita estos cinco versículos de Isaías 62.

 

 

TERCER DIA                                                      1 CORINTIOS 12:4-11                              SEGUNDA LECTURA

                           (“En cada uno el Espíritu revela su presencia con un don que es también un servicio.”)

  1. ¿Qué es lo diferente aún cuando el Espíritu es el mismo? 1 Corintios 12:4

 

  1. ¿Debido a qué hay diferencia en los dones? Romanos 12:6

 

  1. ¿En que están las diferencias, pero el mismo Dios que las produce? 1 Corintios 12:5-6

 

  1. ¿Cómo han sido designados algunos en la iglesia? 1 Corintios 12:28

 

  1. ¿Quién nos da el deseo de trabajar y con qué objeto? Filipenses 2:13

 

  1. ¿Qué le es dado a uno en particular que a la vez es un servicio? 1 Corintios 12:7

 

  1. ¿Cuáles son los dones dados por el Espíritu? 1 Cor 12:8-10

 

  1. ¿Qué debemos buscar y por qué razón? 1 Corintios 14:12

 

  1. ¿Quién hace todo esto y cómo lo distribuye? 1 Cor 12:11

 

  1. ¿Cómo se nos dá la gracia y que se dice acerca de Jesús? Efesios 4:7-8

 

Personal – ¿Qué dones te ha dado a tí el Señor, y cómo se ha mejorado la iglesia debido a tu don? Busca dones que mejoren a la iglesia.

 

 

CUARTO DIA                                                    JUAN 2:1-12                                                       EVANGELIO

                                                                         (“Hagan todo lo que El les mande.)

  1. ¿Qué estaba sucediendo en Caná de Galilea y quién estaba ahí? Juan 2:1-2

 

  1. ¿Cuando se acabó el vino que le dijo su madre a Jesús? Y este, cómo la llamó y qué le dijo?           Juan 2:3-4

 

  1. ¿Qué les dijo la madre de Dios a los sirvientes? Juan 2:5

 

Personal – ¿Cómo has seguido tú las indicaciones de María para los servidores de hoy día?

 

  1. ¿Cuántas tinajas para agua había y cuanto les cabía? ¿Qué dijo Jesús a los sirvientes que hicieran?               Juan 2:6-7

 

  1. ¿Qué les dijo Jesús que llenaran y a dónde las debían de llevar? Juan 2:8

 

  1. ¿Qué fue lo que probó el mayordomo? ¿Quién sí sabía de dónde lo habían sacado y a quién llamó el mayordomo?  Juan 2:9

 

  1. ¿Qué le dijo el mayordomo al esposo? Juan 2:10

 

  1. ¿De qué fue esto el principio, qué nos revela y quiénes empezaron a creer en El? Juan 2:11

 

  1. ¿Dónde realizó Jesús su segunda señal y qué le dijo a la gente? Juan 4:46, 48, y 54

 

  1. ¿Qué señales acompañan a los que creen? Marcos 16:17-18

 

  1. ¿Después de cambiar el agua en vino, a dónde fue Jesús y los que iban con El? Juan 2:12

 

Personal – ¿Qué señales puedes ver en tu vida diaria que revelen la presencia del Espíritu de Dios?

 

 

QUINTO DIA                                                    LEE SALMO 96:1-3, 7-10

                                           (“Canten y bendigan al Señor. Su salvación proclamen diariamente,”)

Leé y medita el Salmo 96:1-3, 7-10.

¿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

                                                                                           ISAIAS 62:1-5

                 En la lectura de hoy vemos a Isaías orando fervorosamente no solo por Jerusalén sino por todo el pueblo de Dios. El ora por el tiempo de liberación futura, cuando todo el pueblo vivirá con Dios en una paz perfecta. Dios no sólo nos ofrece esperanza en el futuro, sino que se nos hace presente también para ayudarnos en nuestras necesidades del presente. El entusiasmo de Isaías por su pueblo y su deseo de ver terminados los trabajos de salvación lo hacían orar sin cesar, esperando que Israel fuera salvado.

Isaías pide para que el nombre de Jerusalén traiga sobre sí misma la protección de Dios y sea llamada una ciudad en la que el Señor se deleita. Y ora para que nunca mas tenga que pasar tantos sufrimiento su pueblo.

Hariamos bien ahora si tuvieramos ese entusiasmo de Isaías de ver hecha la voluntad de Dios. Se nos dice en las Escrituras que no nos preocupemos por nada; que en cambio oremos por todo. Díle a Dios tus necesidades y no te olvides de darle las gracias por todas Sus respuestas (Filipenses 4:6). Isaías nos ha mostrado que si confiamos en Dios por medio de la oración El nos escuchará y nos contestará.

San Pablo nos dice que cambiemos nuestras esperanzas y aú nuestras preocupaciones en oraciones. ¿Quieres preocuparte menos y estar en paz? Entonces ora con más frecuencia. Siempre que empieces a preocuparte, detente y haz oración. Isaías halló la paz de Dios, no con pensamientos positivos, sino sabiendo que Dios estaba en control y que sus oraciones de alabanza serían escuchadas claramente por Dios. Podemos orar igual que Isaías y hallar la paz también.

 

1 CORINTIOS 12:4-11

                 Los dones espirituales son habilidades especiales que el Espíritu Santo da a cada persona. Esos dones pueden ser diversos pero constantemente nos orientan a la unidad. Nos permiten ayudar en las necesidades de los creyentes. Hay muchos dones espirituales y ninguno es superior al otro. Todos los dones espirituales vienen del Espíritu Santo y su intenciín es edificar el cuerpo de Cristo, la iglesia.

Pablo estaba preocupado por las fricciones que había en la iglesia de Corintio por que en vez de edificar y unificar la iglesia, los dones espirituales los estaban separando. El don espiritual es dado para el beneficio de la comunidad y no para el del individuo. Todos los Cristianos tienen fe, sin embargo algunos tienen el don espiritual de fe el cual dá en gran medida plena confianza en el poder del Espíritu Santo. Pablo nos alienta a recordar que cualquiera que sea el don espiritual que se nos haya dado debemos usarlo para mejorar a la comunidad. El poder del Espíritu Santo está sobre todos nosotros y a todos se nos ha dado un don espiritual.

Los dones se manifiestan en nuestra vida al recibir diariamente la gracia de Dios por medio de nuestra vida de oración, la lectura de las escrituras, los sacramentos y la convivencia con otros creyentes.

San Pedro nos dice que todos tenemos algunas habilidades; busca las tuyas y úsalas. Todas nuestras habilidades deben dedicarse a servir a los otros. Ninguna es para nuestro deleite personal.

 

JUAN 2:1-12

El evangelio de hoy nos muestra que cualquier cosa que Jesús tocaba era cambiada. Cambió el agua en vino, cambió a los pecadores en santos. Las bodas en los tiempos de Jesús fueron celebraciones que duraban siete días. Los banquetes eran preparados por varios de los invitados y toda la semana se iba en celebrar la nueva vida de la pareja recién casada. Muchas veces todo el pueblo estaba invitado y casi todos asistían. Era muy penoso que se acabara el vino y era como romper las reglas de hospitalidad (no escritas), del lugar.

Jesús fue llamado por Su madre para proteger el honor de una buena familia del lugar. Jesús estaba en su misión de salvar al mundo, y aún así tomó tiempo para asistir a la boda y tomar parte en las festividades. Jesús supo que el tomar parte en la vida de las personas era una gran parte de Su misión hacía el Calvario. El valoraba las festividades de la boda por que estas involucraban a la gente y El vino para estar con la gente. María no entendió la respuesta de Jesús pero como confiaba absolutamente en El, supo que El haría lo que fuera necesario.

Nuestro llamado a servir o nuestra misión de traer la palabra de Dios a otros puede conseguirse en tiempo de celebración con los demás. Debemos traer un equilibrio a nuestras vidas y lo haremos trayendo a Jesús en los tiempos placenteros al igual que en el de trabajo. Hoy los que creemos en Jesús, pero nos encontramos con situaciones que no podemos entender, debemos continuar confiando en que El hará lo que sea mejor.

 

Aplicación

                 La primera lectura de esta semana nos dice que Dios nos dá, no solo un nombre nuevo sino también una vida nueva. La segunda lectura explica como cada don individual dado por el Espíritu Santo es para el beneficio de la comunidad. El Evangelio muestra que lo que Jesús toca, El lo cambia…ya sea agua o corazones.

Esta semana, permite que tus dones del Espíritu Santo se manifiesten en la comunidad. Has oración con tu familia o con tus compañeros de escuela o de trabajo. Permite que tus dones sean edificantes para los que te rodean. El don de aliviar puede ser un simple abrazo o el hacerle la comida a alguien. El don de enseñar o predicar puede ser leerle las escrituras a alguien que no puede leer o enseñar una clase de escrituras a la comunidad. El don de la hospitalidad puede ser llevar en tu carro a alguien a la iglesia o a la tienda. Los dones son muchos, pero todos ellos vienen de un mismo espíritu. El Espíritu Santo vive en tu templo. (1 Cor.  6:19)

SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Jan. 15th) ‑ 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 ISAIAH 49:3, 5‑6                                FIRST READING

(“My God is now my strength.”)

  1. Who is the Lord’s servant? To whom is the Lord speaking and what does he show through them? Isaiah 49:3

 

  1. Who is being referred to as “Israel” in the following scriptures?

Genesis 35:9‑11

Exodus 4:21‑22

Exodus 5:1

 

Personal ‑ Do you see yourself with the name “Israel?” Reread Isaiah 49:3 and put Jesus’ name in place of Israel and then put your name in that place. Meditate on this.

 

  1. Who has spoken? Isaiah 49:5

 

  1. Where did he form Jesus and as what did he form him? Isaiah      49:5, Psalm 139:13

 

  1. Who would be brought back to the Lord and who would be gathered to him? Isaiah 49:5

 

  1. What is Jesus made in the sight of the Lord? Isaiah 49:5

 

  1. Who is Jesus’ strength? Isaiah 49:5

 

  1. What did God make Jesus to the nations and where will his salvation reach? Isaiah 49:6

 

  1. What did Jesus say and what will happen to those who follow him? John 8:12

 

Personal ‑ In question 4, 6, and 7 above, put your name along the side of Jesus’ name and reread the question and answer.

 

 

THIRD DAY READ 1 CORINTHIANS 1:1‑3                              SECOND READING

(“To you who have been consecrated in Christ Jesus and called to be a holy people.”)

  1. By whom was Paul called and what was he called to be? 1 Corinthians 1:1

 

  1. To whom did Paul and Sosthenes send greetings? 1 Corinthians 1:2

 

Personal ‑ Do you see “the church of God” as a building in which you worship God, or do you see “the church of God” made up of yourself and others who believe in God?

 

  1. Read the following and tell to whom it refers as the Church: Acts 9:31 Acts 20:28 Ephesians 5:23

 

  1. Where was “the church of God” located in this particular greeting by Paul and Sosthenes? 1 Corinthians 1:2 See whether you can locate this on your bible map

 

  1. How do we become consecrated in Christ Jesus? John 17:17‑19

 

  1. What kind of people are we called to be? 1 Cor 1:2

 

  1. What happens when we call on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ? Romans 10:13

 

  1. What comes from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ? 1 Corinthians 1:3

 

  1. How do you receive grace? 2 Peter 1:2, 2 Timothy 1:9

 

Personal ‑ How do you see yourself as one called by God to be holy, and consecrated by him daily? How do you spend time alone with the Lord, talking with him, sharing your fears and anxieties as well as your joys and peaceful times? Take at least ten minutes each day this week without any distractions and talk to him, your Lord.

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ JOHN 1:29‑34    GOSPEL

(“It is he who is to baptize with the Holy Spirit.”)

  1. When John caught sight of Jesus coming toward him, what did he exclaim?   John 1:29

 

  1. Read Exodus 12:1‑13 concentrating on verses 3, 6, 12 and 13. What was done to atone for the sin of idolatry (Exodus 12:12), or worshipping false gods?

 

  1. Why is Jesus referred to as “the Lamb of God?” Isaiah 53:7, 8 and 12

 

  1. What is the sin of the world? Exodus 12:12

 

  1. What did John say and into what position did he put Jesus? John 1:30

 

  1. In John’s statement, “After me is to come a man who ranks ahead of me because he was before me;” would this indicate that Jesus was born before him? Luke 1:34‑36

 

Personal ‑ In your own words, write out what this passage means to you.  John 1:30

 

  1. What was John’s reason for baptizing? John 1:31

 

  1. What was John’s testimony? John 1:32, Isaiah 11:2, Matthew 3:16, Mark 1:10 and Luke 3:21‑22

 

  1. When we receive the Spirit of God, what else do we receive? Isaiah 11:2

 

  1. John says he did not recognize Jesus. Who told him who Jesus was? John 1:33

 

  1. When did God reveal to him what he was to do and where did he reveal this to him? Luke 3:2

 

  1. What did God reveal to John? What did John see for himself and to what did he testify? John 1:33-34

 

Personal ‑ How has God revealed to you that Jesus is the Chosen One? Do you feel you are one of God’s chosen ones? Take time this week to reflect on the way God has chosen you and for what purpose.

 

 

FIFTH DAY                       READ PSALM 40:2, 4, 7‑10

(“To do your will, O my God, is my delight.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 40:2, 4, 7‑10.

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 49:3, 5‑6

The prophet speaks of a mysterious figure known as the servant of the Lord. Christians have recognized Jesus in this description. Today the servant speaks of his mission. The servant reveals his mission as a mission of comfort, compassion, and restoration. He is to make Israel a light to all the nations and that light shall be seen unto the ends of the earth. This was a time of joy because the captives were being brought back to Israel and the hand of the Lord, the Holy One of Israel had created it (Isaiah 41:20).

The communities were still very poor and labored under many difficulties and affliction; so this message of comfort was well received. Isaiah tells us in these verses that the servant is clearly identified with the entire nation. Isaiah shows us how the servant, by suffering through the miseries of being exiled from their homeland and still being faithful to God, is identified with the people of Israel as their ideal representative (verse 3). Upon returning to their homeland the exiles find that rebuilding the temple was not enough. Instead, a call to holiness and worship of the one true God was needed to bring a sense of fullness to the people. The servant will be a healing visible light to all of Israel and all the other nations, Jew or Gentile.

 

1 CORINTHIANS 1:1‑3

Paul begins his letter in the ordinary style of the day, the first century equivalent of “Dear Corinthians.” However, his conventional greeting includes a reminder that they are part of the Lord’s plan for the world.

In the first three verses of this letter the name of Jesus Christ appears no fewer than four times. This was going to be a difficult letter, because it was going to deal with a difficult situation. Paul’s first and only thought was that of Jesus Christ.

Sometimes the church, or even ourselves, try to deal with a difficult situation by means of a book of laws and in the spirit of human justice. Often we try to call on our own mental powers. Paul did none of these things. To his trying situation he brought in Jesus Christ, and it was in the light of the cross and the love of Christ that he dealt with it.

Paul speaks of the church of God at Corinth. It was not the church of Corinth; it was the church of God. We might do well to imitate Paul in this respect and become more aware of the reality which unites us, and become less aware of the local differences which divide us.

Paul tells us something about the individual Christian. 1. He is consecrated in Christ. To be consecrated to Christ is to be one for whom Jesus died, and to know and to live out that reality. 2. We are called to be God’s dedicated people. The word “Hagios” means to be holy or saintly. If a person has been “called” by God, he must show that he is fit in life and in character for that holy service. The Christian is called into a community whose boundaries include heaven and earth. We are all called to be “Hagios” (saints).

 

JOHN 1:29‑34

Once again the fourth Gospel tells us that John is paying homage to Jesus. He calls him the title which has become an integral part of our liturgy, “The Lamb of God.”

John may have been thinking of the Passover lamb because he was the son of a priest and he would know all the rituals of the temple and its sacrifices. The Passover feast was not very far away (John 2:13). The blood of the slain lamb protected the people in the homes of the Israelites on the night they left Egypt (Exodus 12:1‑13). The blood of the Passover lamb delivered the Israelites in Egypt from death. Jesus was considered to be the one true sacrifice who can deliver us from death. Paul, too, thought of Jesus as the Passover Lamb (1 Cor. 5:7) in that there is a deliverance only Jesus Christ can win for us.

Two great pictures of the lamb are presented in the Prophets. Isaiah has the great picture of the one who was brought “like a lamb to the slaughter” (Isaiah 53:7). Jeremiah writes, “But I was like a gentle lamb led to the slaughter” (Jeremiah 11:19). Isaiah 53 later became to the church one of the most precious forecasters in all the Old Testament. There is sheer wonder in the phrase “The Lamb of God.” John used this phrase twenty-nine times in Revelation, and it has become one of the most precious titles of Christ. This title sums up the love, sacrifice, suffering, and triumph of Jesus Christ.

Something happened at Jesus’ baptism that convinced John that Jesus was indeed the Son of God. In Palestine, the dove was a sacred bird and it was not hunted or eaten. The dove also symbolizes Israel, God’s people formed by the Holy Spirit. The creative Spirit of God was moving across the face of the waters (Genesis 1:2)). The rabbis said that the Spirit of God moved and fluttered like a dove. The picture of the dove was one that Jesus knew and loved. The Spirit was power, power like a mighty rushing wind. The Spirit was God; the coming of the Spirit into a man’s life was the coming of God.

Baptism means to dip or to submerge. It can be used for clothes being dipped into dye. John’s baptism meant cleansing. It meant a man was being washed from impurities that clung to him. Jesus’ Baptism was a Baptism of the Spirit, and it meant his life was strengthened with power. The church has included the same Baptism that Jesus experienced in the practice of our faith. We, too, are the beloved of our heavenly Father and his favor rests on us.

 

 

 

Application

The first reading tells us about a servant whose mission is to make Israel a light to all the nations. The second reading shows us that Paul responded to his trying situation in the light of the cross, and with the love of Christ. The Gospel reveals to us that Jesus is the true “Lamb of God.”

John the Baptist’s job was to point people to Jesus. Our job is to point them to Christ and show that it is he whom they seek. This week, lead someone to Christ by intercessory prayer, introduce them to this bible study or bring someone to your church. Try to be specific and gentle.

EPIPHANY OF THE LORD (Jan. 8th) – CYCLE A, B, C

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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 ISAIAH 60:1-6         FIRST READING

(“But upon you the Lord shines.”)

  1. To what are the Israelites being called, whose light has come, and what shines upon the Israelites?   Isaiah 60:1

 

  1. How did the glory of the Lord appear in the following scriptures?

Exodus 16:7, 10

Exodus 24:16, 17

Leviticus 9:6, 23, 24

Ezekiel 3:12-13

Luke 2:9

 

Personal – In your life, in what way has “the glory of the Lord” appeared to you?

 

 

  1. What covers the earth and the unbelievers? Isaiah 60:2

 

  1. Upon whom does the Lord shine, and what appears over them? Isaiah 60:2

 

  1. Fill in the blank: Nations shall walk by your _____________ and kings by your shining radiance.   Isaiah 60:3

 

  1. Who is the light? John 8:12

 

  1. Why must we raise our eyes, and who comes to the light? Isaiah 60:4

 

  1. Who shall be radiant, whose heart shall overflow, and what will happen to the sea and the nations? Isaiah 60:5

 

  1. What will the camels do, and from where will they come? Isaiah 60:6

 

  1. What shall they bear, and what will they be proclaiming? Isaiah 60:6

 

 

Personal – In what way is the light of Christ shining through you in your family, your work, and your environment? Are people drawn to you because they see that light within you?

 

 

THIRD DAY           READ EPHESIANS 3:2-3, 5-6      SECOND READING

(“In Christ Jesus the Gentiles are now co-heirs with the Jews.”)

  1. Who heard of the ministry which God gave Paul, and for whose regard?  Ephesians 3:2, Ephesians 2:11

 

  1. What was revealed? Ephesians 3:3

 

  1. What was unknown to men in former ages? Ephesians 3:4-5

 

  1. Who has revealed this mystery, and to whom was this mystery revealed?   Ephesians 3:5

 

  1. Read the following scriptures: John 14:26, Acts 11:12, 1 Corinthians 2:13

 

Personal – Do you listen each day for the Holy Spirit’s instruc­tions for you? What has he taught you as you have been reading his word? Remember to pray before you read God’s word, asking the Holy Spirit to teach you and give you wisdom, knowledge, and obedience to follow his plan for your life.

 

  1. Who were some of the holy apostles and prophets, and by whom were they sent?Isaiah 1:1, Jeremiah 1:1, John 1:35-50,      Romans 1:1

 

  1. What is the mystery revealed? Ephesians 3:6-8

 

  1. How do the Gentiles and the Jews become co-heirs? Ephesians 3:6

 

  1. Whom has God commissioned to preach the Gospel? Ephesians      3:6 Matthew 28:18-20

 

Personal – In what way have you ever felt called to teach or share God’s Word with others? A good beginning is to share with your spouse, children or a close friend how the Lord has touched you in his Word or from the homily on Sunday.

 

 

FOURTH DAY             READ MATTHEW 2:1-12               GOSPEL

(“They prostrated themselves and did him homage.”)

  1. Where was Jesus born, who was king at that time, and who arrived from the east?   Matthew 2:1

 

  1. Read the following scriptures: Daniel 2:27 and Daniel 4:4. According to these verses, are those who read the stars able to know God’s plan for their lives?

 

  1. Who is the only sign we follow? Isaiah 7:14 Luke 11:30

 

  1. For whom were the astrologers searching, and what did they observe?   Matthew 2:2

 

  1. How did King Herod react, and who reacted along with him?      Matthew 2:3

 

  1. Whom did King Herod summon, and what did he inquire of them? Matthew 2:4

 

  1. What did the chief priest and scribes tell Herod, and to what prophet were they referring?  Matthew 2:5, Micah 1:1   5:1

 

  1. What is the ruler to do? Matthew 2:6

 

  1. Read the following and write out your favorite verse: John 10:11, John 10:14, John 10:16, Acts 20:28, 1 Peter 2:25, 1 Peter 5:3-4, Revelation 7:17

______________________________________________________________­____________________________________________________________

 

Personal – Share the scripture you chose and tell how it has affected your life.

 

  1. What did King Herod find out from the astrologers? Matthew 2:7

 

  1. Where did he send them, and what were his instructions to them?   Matthew 2:8

 

  1. What was the astrologer’s reaction to the star as they followed it?   Matthew 2:10

 

Personal – Have you had any insight to God’s light in his Word? What is your reaction to this?

 

  1. When the astrologers found the child with his mother, Mary, what did they do? Is this in fulfillment of the Old    Testament prophesy?  Matthew 2:11, Isaiah 60:5-6

 

Personal – Have you bowed before the Lord? How have you prostrated yourself in homage before our Holy God? In his presence in the Eucharist, have you knelt to do him homage, or do you do it just out of habit? Reflect on this.

 

 

FIFTH DAY              READ PSALM 72:1-13

(“For he shall rescue the poor man when he cries out.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 72:1-13.

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

 

How can you apply this to your daily spiritual life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY            READ ALL THE COMMENTARY

ISAIAH 60:1-6

This week’s reading from Isaiah comes from a section sometimes called Third Isaiah (Chapters 55-66), and is generally considered to be written by an unknown poet. The time of this passage is about 535 B.C. and it prophesies the role of the temple and offers to open its doors to all other nations. The invitation was given to the whole world to join the ranks of Israel as the Lord’s chosen people.

Isaiah is calling on the people to rise up in the splendor and radiance of the Lord (verse 1). He tells them that the glory of the Lord shines in them and through them (verse 3). He urges them to be confident in that love and they will become leaders of all nations and many from all nations will be drawn to them (verses 4-5).

Today we are being called to rise up and become symbols of light and hope. We are called to be a light to a world that is covered with much darkness. We can be a light to the world only as long as we walk in the light of Christ. Each one of us is called by the Psalmist (Psalm 119:105) to be a light unto each other’s path. We are being called today, as in the time of Isaiah, to let the glory of God’s light shine through all of us.

 

EPHESIANS 3:2-3,5-6

Paul wrote this letter while in prison awaiting trial before Nero. He reflects on his mission to the Gentiles (those who do not believe in the Jewish faith), and he speaks about his own conver­sion as being a great mystery of Christ.

Paul was on a journey to Damascus to persecute disciples of the Lord when suddenly a light flashed around him that seemed to come from heaven. He was challenged by the Lord to stop persecut­ing him and to come follow him. Paul did and his whole life changed. He uses that conversion experience to bring others to the Lord (Acts 9:3-9). He claimed his place as an apostle because he was an eyewitness to the Lord during his “metanoia” or conversion experience.

Paul gained a deeper understanding of God’s plan of salva­tion through Christ. He reveals to us in this letter that into his life had come the great secret of God. That secret was that the love and mercy and grace of God were meant not for the Jews alone, but for all mankind. When Paul met Christ on the road to Damascus there was a sudden flash of revelation that affected his whole life. That “metanoia” is open to all of us, and we are being called to bring to the world that same message. It was to the Gentiles that God sent Paul, to open their eyes that they might turn from darkness to light. We hear Paul stating very boldly that God’s love and mercy are given to all, Jews and Gentiles alike.

 

MATTHEW 2:1-12

We celebrate the feast of Epiphany, which means the visita­tion of the seekers or as they are often called, the Magi, and Christ’s manifestation of his glory to them. It was in Bethlehem, a little town six miles south of Jerusalem, that Jesus was born.

The name Bethlehem means “house of bread,” and the manger in which Jesus slept was used to feed the animals. It is significant that Jesus was born in a place called “house of bread,” as he chose to feed us with his Word and in his presence in the Euchar­ist. He calls himself “Living Bread,” in John 6:35-66, and we share his living bread in our liturgies in accordance with scripture (Luke 22:14-20), in churches throughout the world.

Bethlehem was where Jacob buried Rachel (Genesis 48:7) and it was there that Ruth married Boaz (Ruth 4:13). This city was the home of David (1 Sam. 16:1, 17:12, 20:6) and it was in Bethlehem that the Jews expected God’s Anointed One to come into the world (Micah 5:1-2). When Jesus was born, there came to Beth­lehem seekers from the east to do him homage. The Magi were holy and wise men and were skilled in philosophy, medicine, natural sciences, soothsaying, and interpretation of dreams. Many later became members of a tribe of pagan priests in Persia and functioned much like the Levite priests in Israel.

About the same time that Jesus was born, the Roman poet, Virgil, was praising through his writings and poems the “savior of the world,” the emperor, Augustus Caesar of Rome. So it was to a waiting world that Jesus came and the astrologers from lands far away gathered at his cradle. It was the first sign and symbol of the world’s conquest by Jesus Christ.

Today many of the learned men and women are coming to praise the King of Kings, Jesus; but many are not. What about you? Is Jesus your King and are you bringing him your presence as a gift? We need to reflect on the gift given to all who believe in the Christ Child of Bethlehem. The gift is being co-heirs of his kingdom, members of the one body and sharers of the promise. Have we made someone feel like an unwanted stranger? Have we dared label anyone a foreigner, alien, outsider, or pagan? Have we welcomed all to our “manger scene?” Is the light in our hearts drawing others to him, as the star did in Bethlehem? The manifestation of the star’s brilliance spoke to the Magi of the entry of a King into the world. The glory of God’s love for all is called to be manifested in us through the power of the Holy Spirit and in the saving name of Jesus Christ.

 

Application

Isaiah urges us to look at the glory of God being unfolded before us, and calls upon the people to rise up from the shackles of captivity. In Ephesians Paul describes God’s secret plan, and in Matthew we see the wise men overjoyed at the results of following the star.

This week, like the wise men or Magi, let us bring Jesus our gift. Yours might be a gift of joy or love, peace or patience, etc. Then you need to share this gift with someone in your family or work place. The wise men came in humility and left encouraged and full of hope. We can expect no less, when we bring Jesus our gift.