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Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (August 9th) – 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?

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY   READ 1 KINGS 19:9, 11‑13 FIRST READING

(“Go outside and stand on the mountain before the Lord; the Lord will be passing by.”)

1. Where was Elijah, and what came to him? 1 Kings 19:8‑9

 

2. What did the Lord ask him?   1 Kings 19:9

 

Personal ‑ When you pray, how do you communicate with God? Does he ever ask you any questions?

 

3. Who is another prophet who communicated with God and the glory of God was revealed to him, and where did this take place? Exodus 33:6, 18‑23

 

4. Where did the Lord tell Elijah to go, and who did he say would be passing by?   1 Kings 19:11

 

5. What was hitting the mountains and crushing the rocks before the Lord, and where was the Lord not to be found? 1 Kings 19:11

 

6. What came after the earthquake?   1 Kings 19:12

 

7. What came after the fire?   1 Kings 19:12

 

8. What did Elijah do when he heard the tiny whispering sound? 1 Kings 19:13

 

9. What was the question repeated to Elijah by the Lord? 1 Kings 19:13

 

10. When Jesus was transfigured, where did he go, and who appeared with him?   Matthew 17:1‑3

 

11. How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings glad tidings. What are they announcing? Isaiah 52:7

 

Personal ‑ Where is the mountain of the Lord for you? In what way does God communicate with you?

 

 

THIRD DAY   READ ROMANS 9:1‑5 SECOND READING

(“I speak the truth in Christ: I do not lie.”)

1. Who is speaking, what does he speak, and what does he not do?  Romans 9:1 Romans 1:1

 

2. With whom does Paul’s conscience join witness, and to what is it he bears witness?   Romans 9:1‑2

 

3. Who bears witness to what Paul does?   Romans 1:9

 

4. What is the truth?   1 Timothy 2:4-6

 

5. What does Paul say he could wish for himself for the sake of his brothers, his kinsmen, the Israelites?   Romans 9:3

 

6. What does God tell Moses when he asked God to strike him out of the book that he has written?   Exodus 32:30‑33

 

7. What seven things does he say were theirs, and who came from them?   Romans 9:4‑5

 

8. Where did the Messiah come from according to the flesh?  Romans 9:5 and Romans 1:3

 

9. What does the term Messiah mean?  John 1:41 4:25

 

10. Who is over all?   Romans 9:5

 

Personal ‑ How do you show your concern for a family member, friend, schoolmate or work acquaintance who is not following the way of the Lord? In what way do you speak the truth, as Paul did, to those around you?

 

 

FOURTH DAY   READ MATTHEW 14:22‑33 GOSPEL

(“When he had sent them away, he went upon the mountain by himself to pray.”

1. What did Jesus insist his disciples do, and what preceded this?   Matthew 14:16‑22

 

2. When Jesus had sent them away, where did he go? Matthew 14:23

 

3. After Jesus was baptized, what was he doing when the skies opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him?   Luke 3:21‑22

 

4. Who was with Jesus as he prayed, where did he go, and what time of day was it?   Matthew 14:23

 

Personal ‑ Over the next 24 hours, see how much time you spend alone with the Lord. See whether you can list how many times Jesus prayed alone in the New Testament.

 

5. What was happening to the boat the disciples were in, and what time was it when Jesus came walking on the water towards them?  Matthew 14:24‑25

 

6. When the disciples saw him walking on the water, how did they react?   Matthew 14:26

 

7. What did Jesus hasten to do, and what did he say to his disciples?   Matthew 14:27

 

8. Who spoke up? What did he say to Jesus, and what did Jesus say to him?   Matthew 14:28‑29

 

9. When Peter got out of the boat and started toward Jesus walking on the water, what did he perceive?   Matthew 14:30

 

10. What happened to Peter when he perceived this, and to whom did he cry out?   Matthew 14:30

 

11. Jesus at once stretched out his hand and caught him. What did he exclaim, and what did he ask him?   Matthew 14:31

 

12. What happened when they climbed into the boat? What did those in the boat show him, and what did they declare? Matthew 14:32‑33

 

Personal ‑ What happens to you when you take your eyes off Jesus and dwell on what’s going on around you? What does Jesus do when you call out to him in your distress?

 

 

FIFTH DAY  READ PSALM 85:9‑14

(“I will hear what God proclaims; the Lord‑for he proclaims peace, to his people,..”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 85:9‑14.

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

1 KINGS 19:9, 11‑13

This passage shows us how God speaks to his people in all kinds of circumstances. Elijah had killed the false prophets and then, in fear himself, he fled from the pagan queen, Jezebel. Elijah experienced the depths of fatigue and discouragement just after his two spiritual victories, the defeat of the false prophets, and the answered prayer for rain. Many times discouragement sets in after we have had a very great spiritual experience. God let Elijah eat and rest (19:34), and then sent Elijah to the mountains to wait for him.

Elijah, like many of us do when we are under heavy pressure, began to think that he was the only one following God’s work. He became frustrated and fearful and began to lose sight of what God had in store for him. God asked Elijah what he was doing there, and Elijah told him that he was in danger of losing his life for following God’s orders. Then God said to Elijah, go stand before me on the mountain. Elijah then experienced terrific windstorms and even an earthquake, followed by fire, and still no sign of God. How many times do we look to see whether God is speaking to us in some spectacular way or event? The minute Elijah heard the gentle whispers in that cave, he knew that it was the voice of God.

God speaks to all of us, and the challenge for us is to be quiet and listen. He told Elijah that he wanted him to go back and continue on in his ministry, and not to be afraid of anyone. Do you feel as if no one really cares about you, or what you are doing? Are you afraid of what other people might think about you?

God will come to us just like he did to Elijah in that cave. He will speak in gentle whispers to a humbled heart, and he will change our lives. God doesn’t reveal himself ordinarily in miraculous ways. To look for him in just big rallies, churches, conferences or visible leaders may be to miss him. Are you listening to God right now? Step back from the noise and activity of your life and listen to his gentle whisper. If you listen, listen real close, you will hear him say “I love you.”

 

ROMANS 9:1‑5

Paul’s love and concern for his people was like that of a parent towards his or her child. Parents would do anything to prevent their children from hurting themselves, and yet the children must experience maturity and growth themselves. Paul tells them that they are fortunate to have such a loving, caring God, and it was not only foolish to ignore his teachings, it was also dangerous. Paul is willing to lose not only his life for his people, but also his salvation.

Today, as in this passage, so many Christians take their faith for granted. They assume their salvation is a non‑refundable object. Today, much of the world looks at God as sort of an amusing fantasy to which only oppressed and lonely people cling. Do you have such a concern for others who do not know Christ personally? How concerned are you for those in your own family who do not know Christ personally?

The real challenge to believing Christians today is how much are we all willing to sacrifice of our time, money, energy, comfort and safety to see our loved ones come to faith in Jesus. What do you think about most of the time? Where do you spend most of your free time? Remember, our treasure is where our heart is. We are called to seek his kingship first, and then everything else will fall into line (Matthew 6:33).

A loving parent, like Paul, would gladly die for a child, but like Paul, we see that living for Christ is harder than dying for Christ. To live for Christ means to die to ourselves every day.

 

MATTHEW 14:22‑33

The miraculous feeding of the 5,000 occurred on the shores of the Sea of Galilee near Bethsaida. Jesus then told his disciples to get into their boats and cross to the other side of the lake while he stayed to get the people started home. We then see him going up into the hills and praying far into the night.

Praying was the core of Jesus’ activity. He prayed in all circumstances. He was praying even when the skies opened up and the Holy Spirit descended upon him. He often prayed alone, no distractions, just complete union with his Father. We need to look at ourselves honestly and see how much time every day we share in personal prayer with the Lord. This is a time of tremendous intimacy and a time of hope.

The sea became angry and the storm threatened to overturn the boat that carried the disciples. It was early in the morning when, through the fog and heavy seas, they saw Jesus coming toward them walking on the water. They were terrified because they didn’t really recognize him and thought he was some kind of ghost or evil spirit. Jesus called out to them and Peter replies, still not sure whether it really is Christ, “If it really is you, tell me to come over to you walking on the water.” Peter began to walk toward Jesus and then he noticed the high winds, and when he took his eye off Jesus and began to sink he screamed to the Lord, “Save me.” Jesus instantly reached out his hand and rescued him. He looked at them and said, “Why do you always doubt me,” and as they stepped into the boat the wind immediately and obediently died down.

Today’s passage reveals to us how important solitude is to Jesus. He never began or ended anything without spending time alone in prayer with his Father. He was always equipped to handle anything because he was a man full of prayer. Spending time in prayer will help us meet the challenges and struggles of life. Peter sank because he took his eyes off Christ. You need to ask yourself whether you take your eyes off Christ, during a time of crisis.

Jesus is the center of all healing, and no other means can take his place. The high waves in our lives can be tension, turmoil, sickness, marital discord, and many other forms of destruction. When we keep Jesus as the Lord of our life we too will walk on water and stay above the raging seas of destruction. That really means that we will be able to walk through tough situations when we are focused on Christ, rather than the situation. We need not fear that we will sink in any kind of trouble because, just as Jesus told the men in the boat, “Do not be afraid,” he tells us the same. True love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment (1 John 4:18). There is no condemnation in one who accepts the Lord as his or her Savior (Romans 8:1). Pray about everything, worry about nothing and the peace that surpasses all understanding will be yours (Philippians 4:6, 7).

 

Application

The first reading showed us the power of communication through a gentle whisper of God. The second reading dealt with the power of truth in all that we speak. The Gospel brought home the power of prayer, especially as we prepare to deal with the challenges of life.

This week, make a special effort to speak only the truth, and nothing but the truth, and speak in a clear and gentle manner to those in your family, in your work area, and in your school. His Word is truth. Take some extra time to be alone with the Lord so he can reveal to you what his truth is and how to communicate that to others. Always remember, before you speak to pray and ask the Lord to give wisdom and discernment. This sounds easy but it is not, because Satan, the father of all lies, will try to discourage you in every way he can. Remember, your actions tell others what you really believe.

Lectio Divina – Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time (August 16th) – 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 15:21-28 – At that time, Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon.  And behold, a Canaanite woman of that district came and called out, “Have pity on me, Lord, Son of David!  My daughter is tormented by a demon.”  But Jesus did not say a word in answer to her. 
Jesus’ disciples came and asked him, “Send her away, for she keeps calling out after us.”
He said in reply, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But the woman came and did Jesus homage, saying, “Lord, help me.”  He said in reply, “It is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs.”  She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps
that fall from the table of their masters.”  Then Jesus said to her in reply, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.”  And the woman’s daughter was healed from that hour.

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

 

VIGESIMO DOMINGO DEL TIEMPO ORDINARIO (Aug. 16th) – 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 56:1, 6-7                   PRIMERA LECTURA

(“Actúen correctamente y hagan siempre lo debido.”)

  1. ¿Quién está hablando, qué dice El que observemos y que dice que hagamos? Isaías 56:1

 

  1. ¿De qué nunca te debes cansar? 2 Tesalonicenses 3:13

 

  1. ¿A quién debemos seguir porque todas Sus obras están bien y Sus caminos son justos? Daniel 4:34

 

  1. ¿Qué dice el Señor que está por venir y ser revelado? Isaías 56:1

 

  1. ¿Qué guía a la justificación y salvación? Romanos 10:10

 

  1. ¿Qué están haciendo los extranjeros quienes se agregan a si mismos al Señor? Isaías 56:6

 

  1. ¿Qué le están haciendo los extranjeros al nombre del Señor y en qué se están convirtiendo? Is. 56:6

 

  1. ¿A quién traerá el Señor a Su santa montaña, y qué los hará? Isaías 56:6-7

 

  1. ¿A qué llamará El Su casa, para quién es Su casa y qué será aceptable en Su altar?   Isaías 56:7

 

  1. ¿Qué debemos ofrecerle continuamente a Dios y con qué tipos de sacrificios se complace Dios?  Hebreos 13:15-16

 

Personal – ¿De qué modo guardas el domingo como día del Señor?  ¿Te sientes feliz en la iglesia?  ¿Es ésta una casa de oración y adoración para ti?  Si no sientes la Alegría del Señor en la iglesia, examina tu conciencia y ve si hay algo de esto que te esté bloqueando:

 

– no estás haciendo lo que es correcto y justo

– no estás trabajando para el Señor (con los pobres)

– no estás amando Su nombre

– no estás siendo Su servidor

– no estás evitando lo profano el domingo

– no estás atado a su pacto

 

 

TERCER DIA                                 ROMANOS 11:13-15, 29-32          SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“Dios hizo pasar a todos por la desobediencia, a fin de ejercer con todos su misericordia.”)

  1. ¿Quién está hablando y a quién le está hablando? ¿Quién dice que es El?  Romanos 1:1 y    Romanos 11:13

 

  1. ¿En qué se glorifica Pablo y qué está tratando de hacer? Romanos 11:13-14

 

  1. ¿Qué dice el Señor acerca de Pablo en Hechos 9:15?

 

  1. Si el rechazo de los Judíos significó reconciliación para el mundo, ¿qué irá a significar su aceptación? Romanos 11:15

 

  1. ¿Cómo fuimos reconciliados con Dios y como hemos sido salvados? Romanos 5:10

 

  1. ¿Qué son los regalos de Dios y Su llamado? Romanos 11:29

 

  1. ¿Qué dice Números 23:19 acerca de Dios?

 

  1. ¿Qué has recibido por medio de la desobediencia de los Judíos, y que recibieron ellos también por medio de ésta? Romanos 11:30-31

 

  1. ¿Qué nos ha hecho pasar Dios a todos y por qué? Romanos 11:32

 

  1. ¿Qué les pasa a los que esconden sus pecados y qué les pasa a los que los confiesan y aborrecen? Proverbios 28:13

 

  1. ¿Qué hizo Dios por nosotros en Su inmensa piedad y de dónde saca su vida? 1 Pedro 1:3

 

Personal – ¿Cómo te ves a ti mismo como un desobediente que necesita un Salvador o como uno que ha sentido la misericordia de Dios a través de Jesús?

 


CUARTO DIA                                                 MATEO 15:21-28                                             EVANGELIO

(“¡Mujer, que grande es tu fe! Que se cumpla tu deseo.”)

  1. ¿A cuál distrito se retiró Jesús? Mateo 15:21 Ve si puedes localizarlo en el mapa de la Biblia

 

  1. ¿Quién estaba viviendo en esta localidad y qué le gritaba a Jesús? ¿Qué le dijo Jesús a ella?     Mateo 15:22-23

 

  1. ¿Cuando los discípulos de Jesús se le acercaron a El, que le dijeron? Mateo 15:23

 

  1. ¿Cuál fue la respuesta de Jesús y a quién se estaba refiriendo?   Mateo 15:24, Romanos 15:8

 

  1. ¿Cómo se acercó la mujer a Jesús, cuál era su súplica? ¿Cuál fue la respuesta de Jesús?   Mateo 15:25-26

 

  1. ¿Cómo llamó la mujer a Jesús y qué dijo ella acerca de los perros? Mateo 15:27

 

  1. ¿Qué dijo Jesús que tenía la mujer que era grande y qué le pasó a su hija? Mateo 15:28

 

  1. ¿Qué dijo Jesús acerca del centurión y qué le pasó a su sirviente? Mateo 8:10, 13

 

  1. ¿Qué vio Jesús en la gente que le trajo a un paralítico y qué le pasó a este?    Mateo 9:2, 6-7

 

  1. ¿Qué le pasará a la persona que pone su fe en Jesús? Juan 14:12

 

Personal – Examínate a ti mismo y ve que tanta fe tienes.  ¿Cómo respondes cuando un ser querido se enferma?  ¿Qué pides del Señor?  Pasa más tiempo a solas con el Señor esta semana y pídele que aumente tu fe.  Escucha lo que El dice y apréndete de memoria Romanos 10:17, “La fe nace de una predicación y la predicación se arraiga en la palabra de Cristo”.

 

QUINTO DIA                                      SALMO 67:2-3, 5-6, 8

(“Oh Señor, que los pueblos te aclamen.”)

Lee y medita el Salmo 67:2-3, 5-6, 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

ISAIAS 56:1, 6-7

El Sábado era un día apartado para la oración, descanso y adoración.  Dios nos ha mandado observar Su “Sábado” porque necesitamos pasar tiempo sin prisas en oración cada semana.  Las Escrituras nos dicen claramente que recordemos el “Sábado” como un día santo.  Seis días por semana son para los quehaceres y el trabajo normal.  Pero el séptimo día es un “Sábado” de descanso frente al Señor tu Dios.  En ese día no debes hacer trabajo de ningún tipo, ni tus hijos(as) ni nadie que este en tu casa “Pues en seis días Yavé hizo el cielo y la tierra, el mar y todo cuanto hay en ellos, pero el séptimo día Yavé descansó y por eso bendijo el “Sábado” y lo hizo sagrado.”  (Ex. 20:8-11)

Hoy en día hay mucha gente que ignora este día especial y lo tratan con poco o ningún respeto.  El Domingo en muchas partes del mundo es un día de deportes, no un “día del Señor.”  El Domingo nunca fue destinado a ser el día en que harías todos los trabajitos en la casa que no hubo tiempo de hacer durante la semana.  Todos necesitamos preguntarnos a nosotros mismos, “¿En verdad le doy honor y gloria al Señor el Domingo, o solamente lo miro como un día de descanso del trabajo?”

Dios nos ha llamado a hacer Su casa de oración un lugar de santidad.  El nos dice que todos los que hagan de Su templo una casa de oración recibirán Sus bendiciones.  Dios está complacido con nuestro sacrificio de oración, nuestra alegría y nuestro confesar con los labios que El es el Señor de nuestra vida. Dios nos enseña en este pasaje que si le respondemos a El, El mandará Sus bendiciones sobre nosotros, sin importar color, posición social, trabajo, o situación financiera.  Recuerda que las bendiciones de Dios son tanto para ti como para cualquier otra persona.  Recuerda, el Domingo es un día de adoración y comunión con el Señor.

 

ROMANOS 11:13-15, 29-32

Necesitamos recordar que en esos días después de Pentecostés, la nueva iglesia Cristiana estaba llena mayormente de gente Judía.  Por los esfuerzos Misioneros de Pedro, Pablo, Felipe y otros, los Gentiles se convirtieron en creyentes.  No pasó mucho tiempo para que los Gentiles o creyentes no-Judíos fueran la mayoría en la iglesia.  Este cambio de los Judíos hacía los Gentiles no significaba que Dios los había abandonado, significaba que cuando un Judío venía a Cristo, había un gran regocijo, como si una persona muerta hubiese regresado a la vida.

La visión de Pablo era de una iglesia en la cual todos los Judíos y Cristianos estuvieran unidos en su amor por Dios.  Hoy nuestro mundo es mucho más chico y esa visión es mucho más amplia.  Hay muchos tipos de gente en la iglesia Cristiana de ahora.  Debemos recordar que Cristo redimió al mundo enteró por medio de Su muerte en la cruz y la salvación es para esos quienes aceptan y creen en El.

La piedad del Señor no está limitada a un grupo selecto de personas especiales.  Las Escrituras nos enseñan que los Judíos comparten libremente las bendiciones con los Gentiles.  (Gen. 12:13) Dios nos hace el llamado de bendecirnos unos a los otros y a “Amarnos unos a los otros como Yo los he amado” (Juan 15:22). La piedad de Dios tiene la intención de caer sobre toda Su gente.  En los días de Pablo había una brutalidad tremenda hacia los pobres, oprimidos y los despreciados.

Hoy en día podemos ver mucha piedad y compasión extendida hacía las personas que no tienen casa, los pobres y los que están en las filas de las cocinas donde se les da alimentos y en las prisiones.  Tenemos una tremenda oportunidad de extender la piedad y compasión de Dios a esos quienes están sufriendo del SIDA.  La brutalidad aún existe en todos los segmentos de nuestra sociedad porque solamente la obediencia a la Palabra de Dios traerá un alivio real y permanente a nuestra gente.

Cuando la Palabra de Dios esté en la lengua de cada persona, y cuando cada rodilla se doble y todos llamen a Jesús “Señor,” entonces y solamente entonces, habrá realmente un paz duradera en el mundo.  Todos hemos experimentado la piedad de Dios porque El murió por todos nosotros, sabiendo muy bien que seríamos pecadores (Rom. 5:8).  Yo he encontrado en mi vida personal que mi necesidad por mi Salvador es de diario y es solamente por medio del tiempo en silencio y el estudio de la Escrituras que empiezo a sentir Su presencia increíble.

 

MATEO 15:21-28

El pasaje del Evangelio nos enseña que la fe está disponible para toda la gente.  Considera la fe como respuesta al poder viviente y la presencia de Dios en tu vida.  La mujer en la lectura de ahora tenía una fe inmensa en Jesús.  Considera que en esos días atreverse a dirigirse al maestro era muy restringido.  Sin embargo, no solamente es abordado el maestro y molestado por sus ruegos, sino que todo esto es hecho por una mujer.  No había derechos de igualdad para la mujer en esos días.

Esta mujer estaba tomando un riesgo enorme por el amor a su hija.  Ella respondió al poder viviente y la presencia de Jesús en su vida insistiendo que El hablara con ella.  Los apóstoles estaban escandalizados de que esta mujer estaba interrumpiendo.  Los apóstoles no oían el miedo en su voz y no había compasión en sus voces.  Debemos recordar siempre que aún cuando estamos por hacer algo bueno o hasta espiritual, debemos estar siempre listos para oír y responder al llamado de Dios.

Jesús estaba increíblemente impresionado con la fe de esta mujer y no hizo ningún alarde sobre ello. Ella no era Judía y sabía que su audacia estaba fuera de orden, sin embargo también sabía que el poder de la vida y la muerte estaba de pie enfrente de sus ojos.  Jesús sabía que los discípulos se estaban preocupando de asuntos espirituales y habían fallado en las necesidades espirituales de esta mujer.  El quería que ellos y quiere que nosotros, estemos alertas a las oportunidades que los rodeaban a ellos y a nosotros ahora.

A la mujer no le importó la palabra perro y su fe en Jesús la llevó a pedir solamente las migajas de abajo de la mesa, ya que esto no era negado ni a un perro.  Jesús sanó a su hija por su fe.  El sanará a tus hijos(as) también si tú crees en El verdaderamente y obedeces Sus enseñanzas.

 

Aplicación

La primera lectura de esta semana es un llamado de respeto para el día del Señor.  La segunda lectura enseñó como la piedad de Dios está abierta para toda la gente y el Evangelio reveló la fe como la respuesta al poder viviente y la presencia de Dios en tu vida.

Esta semana, no hagamos nada el Domingo más que celebrar en la iglesia y pasar tiempo con nuestras familias.  No trabajes a menos que sea absolutamente necesario.  Padres, planeen una actividad con sus hijos(as) para que les aumente su fe.  Niños(as), este Domingo estudien las lecturas de Dios y compártanlas con sus padres antes de ir a la iglesia.  Personas solteras, únanse a un grupo y entren en un estudio de Biblia.  Aprendan como Su Palabra hará cada día el “Día del Señor.”

 

Lectio Divina – Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (August 9th) – 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 14:22-33 – After He had fed the people, Jesus made the disciples get into a boat and precede Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. After doing so, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When it was evening He was there alone. Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, He came toward them walking on the sea. When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea they were terrified. “It is a ghost,” they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” Peter said to Him in reply, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught Peter, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, “Truly, you are the Son of God.”

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

 

Decimonoveno Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario (9 de Agosto) – 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?

 

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

 

 

SEGUNDO DIA LEE 1 REYES 19:9, 11-13 PRIMERA LECTURA

(“Sal y ponte en el monte ante el Señor; El Señor pasará por ahí.”)

1. ¿Dónde estaba Elías y qué le pasó?  1 Reyes 19:8-9

 

2. ¿Qué le preguntó el Señor?  1 Reyes 19:9

 

Personal – Cuando haces oración, ¿cómo te comunicas con Dios?  ¿Alguna vez te ha hecho El una pregunta?

 

3. ¿Quién es otro profeta que también se comunicaba con Dios y a quien también le fue revelada la Gloria de Dios?  ¿Dónde tuvo lugar esto?   Éxodo 33:18-23

 

4. ¿A dónde le dijo el Señor a Elías que fuera?  ¿Y quién dijo que iba a pasar por ahí?  1 Reyes 19:11

 

5. ¿Por qué se abrían grietas en la montaña y se quebrantaban las rocas ante el Señor?  ¿Qué pasó después de esto y en lo cual el Señor no estaba presente?  1 Reyes 19:11

 

6. ¿Qué vino después del temblor?  1 Reyes 19:12

 

7. ¿Qué vino después del fuego?  1 Reyes 19:12

 

8. ¿Qué hizo Elías cuando oyó el suave susurro?  1 Reyes 19:13

 

9. ¿Cuál fue la pregunta que el Señor repitió a Elías?  1 Reyes 19:13

 

10. ¿Cuando Jesús fue transfigurado, a donde fue y quién apareció con El?  Mateo 17:1-3

 

11. ¡Que hermosos son sobre los montes los pies del Mensajero que trae buenas nuevas!  ¿Qué están anunciando y qué es lo que dicen?  Isaías 52:7

 

Personal – ¿Donde está la montaña del Señor para ti?  ¿De qué modo se comunica el Señor contigo?

 

 

TERCER DIA LEE ROMANOS 9:1-5 SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“Digo la verdad en Cristo: no miento.”)

1. ¿Quién está hablando, de qué habla y que es aquello que no hace?  Romanos 9:1, Romanos 1:1

 

2. ¿Con quién habla la conciencia de Pablo, y qué es lo que está atestiguando?  Romanos 9:1-2

 

3. ¿Quién da fe por lo que hace Pablo?  Romanos 1:9

 

4. ¿Cuál es la verdad?  1 Timoteo 2:4-6

 

5. ¿Qué es lo que dice Pablo que desearía para si mismo y para sus hermanos, los de su raza, los Israelitas?  Romanos 9:3

 

6. ¿Qué le dice Dios a Moisés cuando éste le pide que lo borre del libro que estaba escribiendo?   Éxodo 32:30-33

 

7. ¿Cuáles son las siete cosas que dice Pablo que les pertenecen y quién vino de ellos?  Rom 9:4-5

 

8. ¿De dónde vino el Mesías según la carne?  Romanos 9:5 y Romanos 1:3

 

9. ¿Qué significa el término Mesías?  Juan 1:41 y 4:25

 

10. ¿Quién está sobre todas las cosas?  Romanos 9:5

 

Personal – ¿Cómo demuestras tu preocupación por algún miembro de la familia, amigo, compañero de escuela o de trabajo que no está siguiendo el camino del Señor?  ¿De qué modo hablas de la verdad con los que están a tu alrededor, así como hizo Pablo?

 

 

CUARTO DIA LEE MATEO 14:22-33 EVANGELIO

(“Cuando El los despidió, subió al monte a solas para orar.”)

1. ¿Qué insistió Jesús que hicieran los discípulos y qué pasó antes de eso?  Mateo 14:16-22

 

2. ¿Cuando Jesús los despidió a dónde se fue?  Mateo 14:23

 

3. ¿Después de que Jesús fue bautizado, qué estaba haciendo cuando se abrieron los cielos y el Espíritu Santo descendió sobre El?  Lucas 3:21-22

 

4. ¿Quién estaba con Jesús mientras éste oraba, a dónde fue y qué hora del día era?  Mateo 14:23

 

Personal – Dentro de las próximas 24 horas, fíjate cuanto tiempo pasas a solas con el Señor y ve si puedes enlistar cuantas veces Jesús oró a solas en el Nuevo Testamento.

 

5. ¿Qué le estaba sucediendo a la barca donde se encontraban los discípulos y qué hora era cuando Jesús vino caminando sobre las agua hacía ellos?  Mateo 14:24-25

 

6. ¿Cuando los discípulos lo vieron caminando sobre las aguas como reaccionaron?  Mateo 14:26

 

7. ¿Qué se apresuró Jesús a hacer y qué les dijo?  Mateo 14:27

 

8. ¿Quién habló, qué le dijo a Jesús y que le respondió?  Mateo 14:28-29

 

9. ¿De qué se dio cuenta Pedro cuando salió de la barca y empezó a caminar sobre el agua yendo hacía Jesús?  Mateo 14:30

 

10. ¿Que le pasó a Pedro cuando se dio cuenta de esto y a quién le gritó?  Mateo 14:30

 

11. Jesús inmediatamente extendió Su mano y lo rescató.  ¿Qué exclamó y qué le preguntó a Pedro?   Mateo 14:31

 

12. ¿Qué pasó cuando subieron a la barca, que hicieron los que ahí se encontraban y que dijeron?   Mateo 14:32-33

 

Personal – ¿Qué pasa cuando quitas tus ojos de Jesús y te fijas en lo que pasa a tu alrededor?  ¿Qué hace Jesús cuando lo llamas cuando estás afligido?

 

 

QUINTO DIA LEE EL SALMO 85:9-14

(“Voy a escuchar de que habla Dios; El Señor habla de paz para Su pueblo…”)

Lee y medita en el Salmo 85:9-14.

¿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

1 REYES 19:9, 11-13

Este pasaje nos muestra como Dios habla a Su pueblo en toda clase de circunstancias.  Elías había matado a los falsos profetas y teniendo miedo por si mismo, huye de la reina pagana Jezabel.  Elías pasa por una profunda fatiga y desaliento justamente después de sus dos victorias espirituales, la derrota de los falsos profetas y la respuesta a su oración por la lluvia.  Muchas veces se presenta el desaliento después de haber tenido una gran experiencia espiritual.  Dios deja que Elías coma y descanse (19:34), y después lo manda a las montañas a esperarlo.

Elías como muchos de nosotros hizo lo que hacemos cuando estamos bajo una presión intensa, empieza a pensar que él era el único que seguía el trabajo de Dios.  Estaba desilusionado, temeroso y empezando a perder de vista lo que Dios tenía guardado para el en el futuro.  Dios preguntó a Elías qué estaba haciendo ahí y Elías le dijo que estaba en peligro de perder su vida por seguir Sus órdenes.  Entonces Dios le dijo que fuera a pararse ante El en la montaña.  Elías sintió terribles ventarrones y hasta un temblor de tierra seguido de fuego y no había seña de Dios.  Cuántas veces miramos para ver si Dios nos habla de un modo espectacular.  Elías sabía que en el momento que oyera un suave susurro en la cueva, esa sería la voz de Dios.

Dios nos habla a todos y el reto para nosotros es estar callados y escuchar.  El le dijo a Elías que quería que regresara y continuara con su ministerio y que no tuviera miedo de nadie.  ¿Sientes como que nadie se preocupa de ti o de lo que tú haces?  ¿Temes lo que otros puedan pensar de ti?

Dios vendrá a ti exactamente como lo hizo para Elías en aquella cueva.  El hablará con suave susurros a un corazón humilde y El cambiará tu vida.  Dios no se muestra a Si mismo en formas milagrosas frecuentemente.  Buscarlo en grandes reuniones, templos, conferencias o líderes visibles puede llevarte a no encontrarlo.  ¿Estás escuchando a Dios en este momento?  Hazte a un lado del ruido y la actividad de tu vida y escucha a Su suave susurro.  Si escuchas, escucha muy de cerca y lo oirás diciéndote “Te amo.”

ROMANOS 9:1-5

El amor y la preocupación de Pablo por su pueblo era como aquella del padre hacía su hijo o hija. Los padres hacen cualquier cosa para evitar que sus hijos se hagan daño a si mismos, sin embargo ellos han de experimentar la madurez y el crecimiento por si mismos.  Pablo les dice que son muy afortunados de tener un Dios tan amoroso y que cuida de ellos y que no solo es tonto ignorar Sus enseñanzas sino que es peligroso.  Pablo está dispuesto a perder no solo su propia vida sino su salvación por su pueblo.

Hoy, como en este pasaje, hay muchos Cristianos que dan por sabida su fe. Asumen que su salvación es un objeto que no se recobra.  Hoy gran parte del mundo mira a Dios algo así como una divertida fantasía a la que solo se adhiere la gente oprimida y solitaria.  ¿Tienes tú esa preocupación por alguien que no conoce a Cristo personalmente?  ¿Qué tan preocupado estás por aquellos de tu misma familia que no conocen a Cristo personalmente?

El gran desafío de los creyentes Cristianos hoy en día, es que tanto estamos dispuestos a sacrificar nuestro tiempo, dinero, energía, comodidad y seguridad para ver que nuestros seres queridos tengan fe en Cristo.  ¿En qué piensas la mayor parte del tiempo?  ¿Dónde pasas la mayor parte de tu tiempo libre? Recuerda, nuestro tesoro está donde esta nuestro corazón.  Estamos llamados a buscar primero que nada Su Reino y su Justicia y después todo lo demás caerá por si solo en su lugar. (Mateo 6:33)

Un padre amoroso como Pablo gustosamente moriría por su hijo, pero como Pablo, también vemos que vivir por Cristo es más difícil que morir por Cristo.  Vivir por Cristo significa morir a nosotros mismos todos los días, o sea poner a los demás primero.

MATEO 14:22-33

La milagrosa comida de los 5,000 tuvo lugar a orillas del Mar de Galilea cerca de Bethsaida.  Jesús al terminar les dijo a sus discípulos que se fueran caminando hacía sus barcas, mientras El veía que la gente se fuera yendo a sus casas.  Los discípulos lo vieron subir a las colinas y hacer oración ahí hasta bien entrada la noche.

La Oración era el centro de la actividad de Jesús.  El oraba en todas las circunstancias.  El se encontraba orando cuando los cielos se abrieron y el Espíritu Santo descendió sobre él.  Frecuentemente oraba a solas, sin ninguna distracción, únicamente en unión con Su Padre.  Debemos vernos a nosotros mismos honestamente y darnos cuenta cuanto tiempo compartimos diariamente en oración a solas con El Señor.  Ese tiempo es tiempo de una gran intimidad y de esperanza.

El mar se embraveció y la tormenta amenazaba con voltear la barca de los discípulos.  Era temprano en la mañana cuando a través de la niebla y las pesadas aguas, vieron a Jesús caminando hacía ellos sobre las aguas.  Estaban aterrorizados por que realmente no lo reconocían y creían que era un fantasma o espíritu maligno.  Jesús les habló y Pedro contestó, aún cuando todavía no estaba muy seguro de que era Cristo, “si realmente eres tú, mándame que vaya hacia ti caminando sobre las aguas.”  Pedro empezó a caminar hacía Jesús y de pronto se dio cuenta de los fuertes vientos y cuando quitó sus ojos de Jesús y empezó a hundirse gritó al Señor “Sálvame.”  Jesús inmediatamente extendió su mano y lo rescató.  Se quedó mirándolo y dijo “por qué siempre dudan de mí,” subieron a la barca y amainó el viento inmediatamente.

El pasaje de hoy nos revela, que importante era para Jesús la soledad.  Nunca empezaba o terminaba algo sin pasar un tiempo a solas en oración con Su Padre.  El estaba siempre preparado para manejar cualquier cosa por que era un hombre lleno de oraciones.  El pasar tiempo haciendo oración te ayudará a estar preparado para los desafíos y la lucha en la vida.  Pedro se hundía por que quitó sus ojos de Cristo y tú necesitas preguntarte a ti mismo si quitas tus ojos de Cristo cuando estas pasando por una crisis.

Jesús es el centro de todo alivio y no hay nadie más que pueda tomar su lugar.  Las olas altas en nuestra vida pueden ser la tensión, los disturbios, la enfermedad, la discordia en el matrimonio y muchas otras formas de destrucción.  Cuando mantenemos a Jesús como el Señor de nuestra vida podemos caminar sobre el agua y mantenernos arriba de los enfurecidos mares de la destrucción.  O sea que realmente seremos capaces de pasar por situaciones difíciles cuando estamos centrados en Cristo en vez de centrarnos en la situación.  No debemos tener miedo de hundirnos en cualquier problema por que así como Jesús dijo a los hombres de la barca “No tengan miedo” así nos dice a nosotros también.  El verdadero amor expulsa el temor porque el temor tiene que ver con el castigo (l Juan 4:18).  No hay condena en aquel que acepta al Señor como su salvador (Romanos 8:1).  “No te inquietes por cosa alguna, has oración en toda ocasión y la paz que sobrepasa todo el entendimiento será tuya” (Filipenses 4:6,7).

Aplicación

La primera lectura nos muestra el poder de la comunicación a través del suave susurro de Dios.  La segunda lectura trata sobre el poder de la verdad en todo lo que hablamos.  El Evangelio trae a casa el poder de la oración, especialmente cuando nos preparamos a lidiar con los desafíos de la vida.

Hagamos esta semana un esfuerzo especial con nuestra familia, en el trabajo o en la escuela y hablemos solo con la verdad y nada más que la verdad haciéndolo de un modo claro y gentil.  Su Palabra es la verdad.  Date un tiempo extra para estar a solas con el Señor para que El te pueda revelar Su verdad y como puedes comunicarla a otros.  Recuerda siempre, antes de hablar, hacer oración y pedir al Señor que te dé sabiduría y discernimiento.  Suena fácil pero no lo es, porque Satanás el padre de la mentira tratará de disuadirte de todos los modos que pueda.  Recuerda tus acciones dicen a otros lo que tu realmente crees.

Lectio Divina – Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (August 2nd) – 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 14:13-21 – When Jesus heard of the death of John the Baptist, he withdrew in a boat to a deserted place by himself. The crowds heard of this and followed him on foot from their towns. When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, and he cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples approached him and said, “This is a deserted place and it is already late; dismiss the crowds so that they can go to the villages and buy food for themselves.” Jesus said to them, “There is no need for them to go away; give them some food yourselves.” But they said to him, “Five loaves and two fish are all we have here.” Then he said, “Bring them here to me,” and he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to crowds. They all ate and were satisfied, and they picked up the fragments left over – twelve wicker baskets full. Those who ate were about five thousand men, not counting women and children.

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

 

Lectio Divina – Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (July 26th) – 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 13:44-52 – Jesus said to His disciples: “The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net thrown into the sea, which collects fish of every kind. When it is full they haul it ashore and sit down to put what is good into buckets. What is bad they throw away. Thus it will be at the end of the age. The angels will go out and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth. “Do you understand all these things?” They answered, “Yes.” And he replied, “Then every scribe who has been instructed in the kingdom of heaven is like the head of a household who brings from his storeroom both the new and the old.”

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

 

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (August 2nd) – 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?

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY   READ ISAIAH 55:1‑3 FIRST READING

(“Listen, that you may have life.”)

1. Who is to come to the water and who is to receive grain and eat?   Isaiah 55:1

 

2. Who seeks water in vain, and what will the God of Israel not do?   Isaiah 41:17

 

3. What does Jesus say he will give us?   John 4:10

 

4. What do we not have to do to drink wine and milk? Isaiah 55:1

 

5. Who is the bread of life, and who will never be thirsty? John 6:35

 

6. What question is asked in verse 2 of Isaiah 55?

 

7. What are we to do to eat well, and in what shall we delight? Isaiah 55:2

 

8. What are we to do that we may have life?   Isaiah 55:3

 

9. What will he renew with us?   Isaiah 55:3

 

10. What is the covenant or promise made to David? 2 Samuel 7:12‑16

 

Personal ‑ An invitation to come to him is given over and over in these passages. In what way have you come to him without feeling you have to pay in some way? In what way do you see this invitation as a free gift?

 

 

THIRD DAY READ ROMANS 8:35, 37‑39 SECOND READING

(“…we are more than conquerors because of him who has loved us.”)

1. Fill in the following blanks:

What will separate us from the _______ of __________?

______________ or ____________, or _______________, or ____________, or ____________, or _______________, or the _____________?   Romans 8:35

 

2. Because of him who has loved us, what are we? Romans 8:37

 

3. How does God prove his love for us?   Romans 5:8

 

4. Of what am I certain?   Romans 8:38‑39

 

5. List the ten things that cannot separate us from the love of God stated in Romans 8:38-39.

 

 

6. In whom does the love of God come to us?   Romans 8:39

 

7. What way are we to follow?   Ephesians 5:2

 

8. What does 1 Cor. 13:4‑8 say about love?

 

9. What separates us from God?   Isaiah 59:2

 

10. What is the way we come to understand love?   1 John 3:16

 

Personal ‑ In what way have you personally been a conqueror in your life? In what way are you experiencing the love of God in your life on a daily basis? Is your relationship with a family member or friend separating you from the love of God? What can you do to be reconciled with that person?

 

 

FOURTH DAY   READ MATTHEW 14:13‑21  GOSPEL

(“There is no need to disperse. Give them something to eat yourselves.”)

1. What had Jesus heard; how and where did he go? Matthew 14:1‑13

 

2. What did the crowds do?   Matthew 14:13

 

3. When Jesus disembarked and saw the vast crowd, what were his feelings and what did he do?   Matthew 14:14

 

4. Who, also, took pity upon someone and was moved to respond? Luke 10:30‑34

 

5. What does Mark’s Gospel say Jesus did when he saw the vast crowd?   Mark 6:34

 

6. As evening drew near, what did Jesus’ disciples suggest he tell the crowd?   Matthew 14:15

 

7. Jesus responded by telling them there was no need to tell them to disperse. What did he tell the disciples to do, and what was their response?   Matthew 14:16‑17

 

8. What did Jesus tell the disciples to do with the five loaves and two fish, and what did he order the crowd to do? Matthew 14:18‑19

 

9. When Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, where did he look, and what three things did he do with them? Matthew 14:19

 

10. What did the disciples do, and what happened to all those present?   Matthew 14:19‑20

 

11. How much was left over, and how many were present?    Matthew 14:20‑21

 

Personal ‑ In what way, this past week, have you lost the benefits of having your hunger filled through Jesus by either eating out or focusing on the preparation of the physical food?

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 145:8‑9, 15‑18

(“You open your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 145:8‑9, 15‑18.

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ISAIAH 55:1‑3

This passage invites us to seek nourishment from the real source of food and water, not just a temporary source that satisfies only our bodies. Jesus tells us, as well as the woman at the well, that the water he gives us becomes a perpetual spring within us. We, then, are free from thirst forever, with eternal life (John 4:14).

There is a tremendous parallel in the functions of our spiritual and physical life. We spend money on food that lasts only a short time and meets only our physical needs. Can you imagine how people would react if there were notices in the community that all kinds of food and drink were to be given away for free? The response would be incredible and immediate. Yet that is what God is offering us right this very moment. He is offering us perpetual, living water and nourishment that will fill us spiritually. We can all receive this food for our soul, but first we must come to the Lord by responding to his call. We must listen to him, seek him out, and call upon the name of the Lord. God’s salvation is freely offered, but to nourish our souls we must openly receive it.

It is very important for us to remember that we will starve spiritually without his food, as surely as we will starve physically without our daily bread. As our bodies hunger and thirst, so do our souls. The living Word, Jesus Christ, can satisfy our hungry and thirsty souls.

 

ROMANS 8:35, 37‑39

This passage affirms our faith and hope in the Lord Jesus Christ by clearly showing us that nothing, not even death itself, can separate us from God’s love. The power of the Holy Spirit frees us from falling into sin, and we know that power is at our side always. If you were standing in a courtroom and waiting for the verdict to be read, what would those words mean to you if you were on death row? We must remember that the whole world is on death row, justly condemned for repeatedly breaking God’s holy law. Without Jesus Christ, we would have no hope at all. But thanks be to God, he has declared us not guilty and has offered us freedom from sin and the power to follow his will.

In the face of trouble or calamity, or when we are hunted down or devastated, the question continually arises, “Who can ever keep God’s love from us?” Are our trials and tribulations a sign that he doesn’t love us any more or that he even has deserted us? We need to hear, read, and believe the scriptures that tell us over and over that he will never leave us or take away his love from us. These words were written to a church that soon would undergo terrible persecution. In just a few short years, Paul’s words would turn into painful realities.

Today’s passage reaffirms God’s incredible love for his people. Today, in many countries throughout the world, these words are a tremendous reality. We must all be ready to lose everything we own and even be ready to face death itself. Christ did that and we are called to follow his example. It is very important for us to remember that no matter where we are or what happens to us, we can never be separated from his love. When suffering comes, it will not drive us away from God. On the contrary, through the power of the Holy Spirit, it will bring us closer to God. We will be able to identify with him, and allow his love to heal us.

These verses contain one of the most comforting and healing promises in all scripture. We may have to face the hardship of persecution, illness, imprisonment, even death itself. Any one of these hardships could cause us to fear that we have been deserted by Christ. Paul tells us that nothing can separate us from God’s love, because his death is proof of how much he loved us. Nothing can stop his constant presence with us. God tells us how great his love really is so that we will be totally secure in him and we will not be afraid. Because of Jesus Christ, you and I need not fear tomorrow, because we, too, can live forever.

 

MATTHEW 14:13‑21

Galilee was a small part of the country, and there were people from many small towns who heard about Jesus and flocked to hear him speak. Jesus was filled with grief over the news about John the Baptist, his cousin, and like many of us in our time of grief, he needed to rest and be alone with his thoughts. The crowd saw where Jesus was heading and followed him by land from many villages.

Jesus sought solitude after the news of John’s death. However, he did not dwell on his grief, and he returned to his ministry. He had tremendous compassion for those who came to him. He pitied them and healed their sick, even while he grieved. How many times do we feel cheated when we need to rest or just simply be alone, and the pressures of our families, jobs, or communities prevent us from being able to minister to ourselves through taking time for God in solitude and peace.

Jesus listened to the disciples complain about the crowd and tell him to send them away to the villages and feed themselves. Can you imagine over 5,000 people out in the middle of no where all of a sudden being told to go look for a place to buy food? Jesus’ compassion was in full force when he told the disciples to feed the crowd. The disciples were shocked and said, “Where are we going to get the food and how are we supposed to do it?” Whenever we come up against something that appears to be “difficult to impossible,” it is common to complain and predict failure. The impossible to men becomes the possible through Christ; and the 5,000 people were fed with just five loaves and two fishes. Jesus even provided enough food to have leftovers. Do you believe this story? Do you believe that with Jesus all things are possible?

Jesus made room in his busy schedule to be alone with the Father. His time of solitude was not to sulk, but to be with his Father in prayer. He knew that this time would equip him to meet the challenges and struggles of life. Jesus took the bread and fish and looked to his Father and gave thanks, and blessed the meal. He then, in confidence, broke the bread and distributed it to the people. The disciples were flabbergasted, the people were ecstatic and Jesus was thankful to his Father.

What about today? There are many people tired and in need of food, not just physical food, but spiritual food. Who is to feed them? We are, according to today’s passage. We are the disciples of Jesus Christ, and by our baptism we are called to go forth and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). We are to follow Jesus’ example and take time to rest in the solitude of God. We are not to dwell in grief and fall prey to self‑pity over our illness, misfortune or even death of a loved one. We are to give thanks, rise up and feed our brothers and sisters with the living, healing Word of God.

 

Application

The first reading tells us to seek nourishment from the real source of food and water, not just temporary nourishment. The second reading tells us nothing, not even death, can separate God’s love from us. The third reading shows us how God wants us to feed our brothers and sisters with his Holy Word, and not be caught up in any self‑pity.

This week, try to bring the Eucharist to someone you know who is sick or shut‑in. Feed your family this week by reading a scripture passage everyday at the main meal time. Make a family visit to help feed the poor at a local soup kitchen. Remember, whatever you do for the least, you do for Jesus!

Lectio Divina – Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (July 19th) – 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 13:24-43 – Jesus proposed another parable to the crowds, saying: “The kingdom of heaven may be likened to a man who sowed good seed in his field. While everyone was asleep his enemy came and sowed weeds all through the wheat, and then went off. When the crop grew and bore fruit, the weeds appeared as well. The slaves of the householder came to him and said, ‘Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? Where have the weeds come from? He answered, ‘An enemy has done this.’ His slaves said to him, ‘Do you want us to go and pull them up?’ He replied, ‘No, if you pull up the weeds you might uproot the wheat along with them. Let them grow together until harvest; then at harvest time I will say to the harvesters, “First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles for burning but gather the wheat into my barn.”’”

He proposed another parable to them. “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that a person took and sowed in a field. It is the smallest of all the seeds, yet when full-grown it is the largest of plants. It becomes a large bush, and the ‘birds of the sky come and dwell in its branches.’”

He spoke to them another parable. “The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch was leavened.” All these things Jesus spoke to the crowds in parables. He spoke to them only in parables, to fulfill what had been said through the prophet: I will open my mouth in parables, I will announce what has lain hidden from the foundation of the world. Then, dismissing the crowds, he went into the house. His disciples approached him and said, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field.” He said in reply, “He who sows good seed is the Son of Man, the field is the world, the good seed the children of the kingdom. The weeds are the children of the evil one, and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. Just as weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his kingdom all who cause others to sin and all evildoers. They will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears ought to hear.”

 

 

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

 

SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (July 26th) – 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 1 KINGS 3:5, 7-12       FIRST READING

(“I give you a heart so wise and understanding…”)

  1. Where did the Lord speak to Solomon, and what was known about that place? 1 Kings 3:4-5

 

  1. Who were Solomon’s parents? 2 Samuel 12:24

 

  1. What did God say to Solomon, and where did he say it? 1 Kings 3:5

 

  1. Why did God show great favor to Solomon’s father? 1 Kings 3:6

 

  1. What did Solomon say God has made him, and what did he call himself?   1 Kings 3:7

 

  1. Because of his age, what did he recognize about himself? 1 Kings 3:7

 

  1. Whom would Solomon serve, and how many were there? 1 Kings 3:8

 

  1. What kind of heart did Solomon ask God to give him, and what two things would this help him to do? 1 Kings 3:9

 

  1. How did the Lord feel about Solomon’s request? 1 Kings 3:10

 

  1. God was pleased with Solomon because he did not ask for what three things? 1 Kings 3:11

 

  1. What did God say he would do? What kind of heart would Solomon have, and would there ever be anyone like him? 1 Kings 3:12

 

  1. What has God given us through Christ? Ephesians 1:9

 

  1. Where is every treasure of wisdom and knowledge hidden? Colossians 2:2-3

 

Personal – What have been your requests from God this past week? How have you been praying for a loved one who may have strayed from the faith? After you have done the above study, what changes can you make in your prayers (requests from God)?

 

 

THIRD DAY              READ ROMANS 8:28-30        SECOND READING

(“Those he called he also justified;”)

  1. What do we know God makes, and to whom does he make this happen? Romans 8:28

 

  1. For those whom God foreknew, what did he predestine them to share? Romans 8:29

 

  1. Of whom might the Son (Jesus) be the first-born? Romans 8:29

 

  1. Through whom has God predestined us to become his adopted sons and daughters, and when did God plan this? Ephesians 1:3-5

 

  1. What did God do for them? Romans 8:30

 

  1. What did God do to those he called and in turn glorified? Romans 8:30

 

  1. How does God administer everything, and how were we predestined?   Ephesians 1:11

 

  1. What two things were our responses to being chosen in Jesus?  Ephesians 1:13

 

  1. As was promised, with whom were we sealed?  Ephesians 1:13

 

  1. How have we been justified? Romans 8:30, Ephesians 1:7, 13

 

Personal – What is your response to what Jesus has done for you personally? Do your actions in public show your belief? How do you act in a crisis? Is the reality of what Christ has done in your life visible to others in all circumstances? Reflect on this.

 

 

FOURTH DAY            READ MATTHEW 13:44-52              GOSPEL

(“Angels will go and separate the wicked from the just.”)

  1. The reign of God is like a man who finds a treasure. What does he do when he finds it? Matthew 13:44

 

  1. Again, like what is the kingdom of heaven? Matthew 13:45

 

  1. What did the merchant do when he found a really valuable pearl? Matthew 13:46

 

  1. What did Jesus say we would have in heaven if we sell all our possessions, and whom are we to follow? Matthew 19:21

 

  1. What does Paul consider a loss in the light of the surpassing knowledge of his Lord Jesus Christ, and for Jesus’ sake, what has he forfeited? Philippians 3:7-8

 

  1. The reign of God is also like a dragnet thrown into the lake which collected all sorts of things. When the haul is brought ashore, what is done with what is worthwhile, and what is done with what is useless?   Matthew 13:47-48

 

  1. What will it be like at the end of the world? Matthew 13:48-49

 

  1. What will the angels do? Matthew 13:49-50

 

  1. What is the question Jesus put to his disciples, and what was their reply?   Matthew 13:51

 

  1. By whom are we taught in order to interpret spiritual things, and whose mind do we have?   1 Cor 2:10-16

 

  1. What is every teacher of the law like who is learned in the reign of God? Matthew 13:52

 

Personal – Take an inventory of your life and reflect on the areas where you have been worthwhile or useful for God. Also, reflect where you have not been worthwhile or useful for God. How can you become more useful? A good example of usefulness for God is Mother Teresa. Pray on this.

 

FIFTH DAY     READ PSALM 119:57, 72, 76-77, 127-130

(“The revelation of your words give light, giving understanding to the simple.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 119:57, 72, 76-77, 127-130.

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

1 KINGS 3:5, 7-12

Today’s passage from the book of 1 Kings, is about Solomon, the third king of Israel. He was called the wisest man who ever lived. He sealed many of his foreign agreements by marrying pagan women, and he allowed his lust for women and power to affect his loyalty to God. Solomon is an example to all of us how effective leadership can be blocked by an ineffective personal life. He was a tremendous politician, diplomat, trader, and collector of fine arts, but he was very disobedient to God in running his own household. He had it all and yet he failed to obey God, and he did not learn repentance until late in life. Today’s story brings out what is really lasting in life and what is temporary. Solomon was given a chance to have anything he requested and he asked for wisdom to be a good leader of his people. God was very pleased at his request.

We need to ask ourselves: if God gave us the same chance to have anything we wished, would we have responded like Solomon? We need to ask for this same kind of wisdom. Solomon asked for wisdom to do what was expected of him, and today more than ever, we need to ask God for the wisdom to know what to do and the courage to do it. Solomon, like many of us, received great gifts; but again, like some of us, he did not apply the benefits of these gifts to all areas of his life.

You and I need to reflect on our own lives and discern how much we are living for God instead of ourselves. Solomon was wise, but he did not put that wisdom fully into action. Wisdom is both the discernment to know what is best and the strength of character to act upon that knowledge. Solomon asked for wisdom, not wealth, power or fame. God gave him all of this because of his generosity. Solomon sought only God’s Kingship, not anything else, and we too must do the same and have the courage to follow his way all of our life (Matt.6:33). You can be wiser than Solomon by putting God and his work first in your life. The real wise man is the one who has put on the mind of Christ and serves others rather than rules over others (Phil. 2:2-5).

 

ROMANS 8:28-30

Today’s reading from Paul to the Romans is one of the most powerful verses in the New Testament, and it is also one of the most misunderstood. God works out all things, not just a few isolated incidents, for our good. All that happens to many of us is not just good; sometimes bad things happen too. God is able to take them and turn them around for our long-range good. God is not working to make us happy, but to fulfill his purpose. We must recognize that this promise applies only to those who love God and are fitting into God’s plans. We are called to trust in God, not in life’s treasures. We are called to look for our security in heaven, not here on earth (Cor. 3:2-4). Then, and only then, can we learn to accept pain and persecution on earth, because they bring us closer to God. This sounds rather hard; but when the force of some catastrophic event slams into your life, the healing power of God’s love can take you through the dark raging waters.

God does work things out for our good. Many times we do not see them at first, but time shows us how God was very much present when we thought we were all alone. God’s ultimate goal is for all of us to become like Christ (1 John 3:2). God’s Holy Word reveals to us that we can become the persons we were created to be. We need to remember that God’s purpose was that no one should perish. We are all called to serve and to glorify God. The sovereignty of God should always be a reason for rejoicing and confidence, not of puzzlement or doubt.

Remember, if God gave his Begotten Son to die for us, he is not going to hold back the gift of salvation. If Christ gave his life for us, he is not going to turn around and condemn us. No matter what may be happening to you, just rest in his redeeming grace and he will work things out for your ultimate good, simply because he loves you.

 

MATTHEW 13:44-52

The kingdom of heaven is more valuable than anything else we can have, and a person must be willing to give up everything to obtain it. The kingdom of heaven is ours because of Jesus’ death and resurrection. His death bought our freedom and eternal life with him forever in heaven.

We might ask, who would oppose us in our goal to obtain the kingdom of heaven. In many places the tyranny of governments strictly puts the pressure of threats and physical harm on Christians, and in many cases, subjects them to public ridicule. We need only look around and see how society treats those who object to abortion. The people who choose pro-life instead of pro-death are many times arrested and sentenced to jail (Matt. 10:18-19).

Today’s Gospel passage deals with a treasure found by accident and the value was so great that everything else was sold in order to possess the great treasure. How much of your treasures are you willing to let go in order that you might possess the greatest treasure in the universe? We cannot serve God and money, power or status. We are called as Christians to go out and tell others of this priceless treasure.

We need to show others that they too may possess this treasure by giving up their temporary treasures and claiming the treasure of treasures, a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. We must never forget Jesus’ words in Matthew 10:39, “If you cling to your life, you will lose it, but if you give it up for Me, you will save it.” Jesus taught that the kingdom was now and he was the real treasure, not power, money, sex, or status. He tells us again today that to gain his treasure, we must let go of the earth’s treasures and cling only to him. If you sometimes doubt your salvation, the forgiveness of your sins, or God’s work in your life, look at the evidence in Scripture and the changes in your life. About what do you spend most of your time thinking? Remember, where your treasure is, there is your heart also (Matthew 6:21).

 

Application

The first reading this week shows Solomon really choosing a great treasure in asking for wisdom. In the second reading we see Paul going beyond the quick fix, and in faith proclaiming God’s will for those who believe in the Lord. The Gospel brings us into touch with the what and where of our real treasure.

This week, let us use our spiritual vision and see what God wants to do with our lives. Look around and choose someone in the family, or in school or at work, and show by your action that you want to serve them and that their interest comes first. Your treasure is serving others in the name of Jesus. Serve them by doing a chore for them, helping out at home, or spending time with your family. Do not let anything interrupt.