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First Sunday in Advent (November 29th) – Cycle B

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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 63:16, 17, 19; 64:2-7 FIRST READING

(“…we are the work of your hands.”)

l. What is the Lord to us, and what is he named forever? Isaiah 63:16

 

2. How has God redeemed us?  1 Peter 1:18-21

 

3. What happens to our hearts when we wander from the Lord’s ways?  Isaiah 63:17

 

4. What has to be broken, and for what reason? Ezekial 6:8-10

 

5. What hardens our hearts and keeps us from his rest? See Hebrews 3:15-19, concentrating on verse 19

 

6. Whom have they been like for too long?  Isaiah 63:19

 

7. For what was it they thought they could not hope? Isaiah 64:2-3

 

8. What has no ear heard nor eye seen, and what is God doing?  Is. 64:3 and also 1 Corinthians 2:9

 

9. With what were the Israelites concerned that the Lord might eet them doing, and of what might they be mindful? What is the Lord, and what are we?   Isaiah 64:4

 

10. Like what had all of them become, and what carries them away like the wind?   Isaiah 64:5

 

11. Who calls upon your name and rouses himself to cling to you, and for what reason?   Isaiah 64:6

 

12. We are the work of whose hands?  Isaiah 64:7

 

Personal – In what way have you hardened your heart to the way of the Lord, and is guilt a part of your life?  How has God been trying to break through the heart of stone and make it a heart of flesh?

 

 

THIRD DAY READ 1 CORINTHIANS 1:3-9 SECOND READING

(“God is faithful,”)

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

 

2. What has surpassed the increase of sin, and how does it reign, and through whom does it reign?  Romans 5:20-21

 

3. What is Jesus’ gift to us?   John 14:27

 

4. Why does Paul continually thank God, and in what is it that the people have been richly blessed?  1 Corinthians 1:4-5

 

5. Who has the king for his friend?   Proverbs 22:11

 

6. Who gains and seeks knowledge?  Proverbs 18:15

 

7. What has been confirmed among those of Corinth, and what is it the people do not lack?  1 Corinthians 1:6-7

 

8. What has appeared offering salvation to all people, and what does it train us to do?  Titus 2:11-14

 

9. What will God do for us so that we will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ?   1 Corinthians 1:8

 

10. What does God say he will do for us?  Isaiah 41:10

 

11. What is God, and to what has he called us?  1 Cor. 1:9

 

Personal – How has your speech to your family, friends, school mates and co-workers been a reflection of the spiritual gifts God has given you?

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ MARK 13:33-37 GOSPEL

              (“Be constantly on the watch!”)

1. What are we to do, and what do we not know?  Mark 13:33, also Matthew 24:42

 

2. What are we to attend, and what two things are we to watch?   1 Timothy 4:15-16

 

3. Whom does a man who leaves home to travel abroad leave in charge, and how does he leave them?  What does the man order the gatekeeper to do?  Mark 13:34

 

4. What did Mary call herself?  Luke 1:38

 

5. What did Jesus say that anyone who serves him would do, where will he be, and what will the Father do? John 12:26

 

6. What do we not know, and what must we not let him do? Mark 13:35-36

 

7. What does he say to us and to all?  Mark 13:37

 

8. Against what did Jesus tell his disciples to be on guard? Luke 12:1

 

9. Against what did Paul warn us to be on guard?  Acts 20:30-31

 

10. For what other reason do we stay sober and alert? 1 Peter 5:8

 

11. What will stand guard over our hearts and minds? Philippians 4:7

 

Personal – How alert have you been to the hypocrisy and lies of those who are not following God’s Word?  This week, in what way have you been able to use his Word to fight against this?

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 80: 2-3, 15-16, 18-19

(“Give us new life, and we will call upon your name,”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 80: 2-3, 15-16, 18-19.

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 63: 16-17, 19; 64:2-7

The faithful remnant (those who survived the Babylonian captivity) asked God for several favors. One was to show compassion to them and also to punish their enemies. This reading describes God’s glory as like an intense consuming fire that burns everything in its path. His power is described in awe, and no one has ever heard or seen a God like him. The people realized that being so impure themselves, there was no way that they could be saved on their own merits. God’s mercy was the only hope that they had, and they grasped eagerly for it. When God met with Moses there was a thunderstorm, smoke, and an earthquake.

If God were to meet us today, his glory would overwhelm us, especially when we look at our so-called good works or filthy rags. Sin makes us unclean, it produces a hardened heart, and it ultimately leads to spiritual and sometimes physical death. Because of our sins, we are dressed in rotten rags and could not dine at the king’s table. Our best efforts still fall short. God steps forth like the potter and remakes the clay. He takes our old hardened heart and he lets it be broken through sickness, humiliation, pain, suffering and defeat. God spared his remnant of people then and he will do the same now. But we must be open to true repentance. The people in today’s message would not change until they had learned some hard lessons. You need to reflect today and ask yourself, does your heart long for God enough to change those areas within you that displease and hurt him? Will God have to “break” your heart in order to bring you to true repentance?

 

1 CORINTHIANS 1:3-9

Today’s reading clearly reveals that in a world of noise, confusion and incredible pressures, people long for peace. In today’s world that hunger and thirst for peace still resides in the hearts of most people. Yet, many give up the search, thinking it impossible to find, but the peace of mind and heart is available through faith in Jesus Christ.

For a moment, let us review our description of faith. Faith is the living response to the power and presence of God in our life. In other words, we have to respond to the presence of God to utilize fully the power of the Holy Spirit.

Paul had some strong words for the Corinthian people, but he began this letter on a very positive note. He affirms their being in the family of God and having the power of the Spirit in their lives.  The Corinthian church members had all the spiritual gifts they needed to live the Christian life, to witness for Christ, and to stand up against the paganism of Corinth.

We too have those very same gifts and the same power because we have the very same Holy Spirit. We are called by Christ to come follow him and he promised us salvation. This salvation was not because of any great accomplishment on our part. His action of dying on the cross and rising from the dead is where our guarantee has its source.

Later on in this same letter to the Corinthians, Paul admonishes the people because they began to argue over which of the gifts was more important (1 Cor. Chapters 12-14). Hold on to what has been promised to you, and if you believe and have faith in Christ, you will experience the reality and honor of God’s covenant. God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, so that anyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

 

MARK 13:33-37

Jesus shows us his complete trust and obedience to his heavenly Father when he tells us that he did not know even the time of the end. He was affirming his humanity when he voluntarily gave up the unlimited use of his divine attributes. The emphasis on Jesus’ statement is that only the Father knows, and the secret is God the Father’s to be revealed when he wills. Jesus is really telling us that no interpretation of scripture or science can predict the exact day which only his heavenly Father knows. Jesus is teaching that preparation, and not calculation, is needed.

Look around and see how much planning goes into a wedding, the birth of a child, a career change, or the purchase or rental of a home. Jesus’ return is the most important event in our lives and we need to ask ourselves whether we place the same importance on preparing for his return. We can prepare for his return through study of his Holy Word, following the teachings of the church, and receiving the sacraments. We are being told how to prepare by scripture and sacred tradition. We are not to be misled by confusing claims or idle interpretations of what will happen at the end of time. We are called to witness to Christ in season and out of season, and to be prepared for persecution (Mark 13:13).

We especially need to be morally alert and obedient to God’s commandments. Scripture tells us to stay sober and alert. Our opponent, the devil, is prowling like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). Lions choose victims who are alone, sick, or not alert. Being in the company of supportive Christians is a good way of being prepared. This passage really brings home the power of right living. That is living for God in a world where God is largely ignored.

 

Application   

This week’s first reading tells us that God’s grace changes us from sinners to saints.  In the second reading we see that peace is attainable only through Jesus Christ.  The Gospel warns us to prepare, and not calculate for Christ’s return.

This week, be alert and be aware of hypocrisy in your speech and in the speech of the members of your family, your co-workers, and school associates. First affirm this person by telling him\her how much God has blessed him\her and then witness to him\her that hypocrisy is a tool of Satan who is waiting to devour people who are not alert.  Your speech and actions are signs to others that you will be prepared when Christ returns.

Lectio Divina – The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe (November 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 25:31-46 – Jesus said to His disciples: “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit upon his glorious throne, and all the nations will be assembled before him. And he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the king will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.’ Then the righteous will answer him and say, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?’ And the king will say to them in reply, ‘Amen I say to you, whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me.’ Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you accursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, a stranger and you gave me no welcome, naked and you gave me no clothing, ill and in prison, and you did not care for me.’ Then they will answer and say, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison, and not minister to your needs?’ He will answer them, ‘Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.’ And these will go off to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

Solemnidad de Nuestro Señor Jesucristo, Rey del Universo (22 de Noviembre) – 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 EZEQUIEL 34:11-12, 15-17 PRIMERA LECTURA

(“Yo mismo les daré reposo, dice el Señor Dios.”)

1. ¿Qué dice el Señor Dios que va a hacer cuando El se encuentre entre sus ovejas dispersas?  Ezequiel 34:11-12

 

2. ¿Qué hará El con las que estaban dispersas cuando estaba nublado y oscuro?  Ezequiel 34:12

 

3. ¿Qué hizo Dios cuando nosotros estábamos bajo el poder de la oscuridad?  Col 1:13

 

4. ¿Quién, dice el Señor, que apacentará Sus ovejas y les dará reposo?  Ezequiel 34:15

 

5. ¿Quién dice Jesús que es El?  Juan 10:11, 14

 

6. ¿A quiénes buscará el Señor?  ¿A quiénes traerá de vuelta?  ¿A quién ha de vendar y a quién ha de curar?  Ezequiel 34:16

 

7. ¿A qué vino el Hijo del Hombre (Jesús)?  Lucas 19:10

 

8. ¿A quién cura el Señor?  Isaías 61:1

 

9. ¿Qué es lo que hace el Señor a la gorda y robusta?  ¿Cómo las apacentara a todas?  Ezequiel 34:16

 

10. ¿Quién es elegido en este mundo para avergonzar a los fuertes?  1 Corintios 1:27-28

 

11. ¿Entre quiénes juzgará el Señor Dios?  Ezequiel 34:17

 

Personal – ¿Cómo has sido sanado por el Señor y de qué manera te trajo de vuelta cuando te perdiste?  ¿Qué heridas te ha vendado?  Toma unos minutos y agradécele al Señor.

 

 

TERCER DIA 1 CORINTIOS 15:20-26, 28 SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“Así como en Adán todos mueren, en Cristo todos volverán a la vida.”)

1. ¿De qué fue Cristo resucitado y de quién es El, el primer fruto?  1 Corintios 15:20

 

2. ¿Qué dará a sus cuerpos mortales el que resucitó a Cristo y por medio de quién lo hará?  Romanos 8:11

 

3. ¿A quiénes llevará Dios junto a Jesús?  1 Tesalonicenses 4:14

 

4. ¿Cómo vino la muerte?  ¿Cómo vino la resurrección de los muertos y cuál es el orden apropiado?  1 Corintios 15:21-23

 

5. ¿A quién escuchó Adán y qué fue lo que Dios le prohibió hacer?  Génesis 3:17

 

6. ¿A quiénes trae condenación ésta desobediencia y qué es lo que hace un simple acto justo?   Romanos 5:18

 

7. ¿Quién bajará del cielo a la señal?  ¿Qué pasará a aquellos que han muerto en Cristo?  ¿Qué pasará a los que están vivos?  1 Tesalonicenses 4:16-17

 

8. ¿Cuando llegue el fin, qué es lo que Cristo destruirá y qué entregará a Dios Padre? 1 Corintios. 15:24

 

9. ¿Por cuánto tiempo debe reinar Cristo y cuál es el último enemigo?  1 Corintios 15:25-26

 

10. ¿Dónde está sentado Cristo y de qué es cabeza?  Efesios 1:20-23

 

11. ¿Por medio de qué, ha robado Cristo su poder a la muerte haciendo resplandecer vida e inmortalidad?  2 Timoteo 1:10

 

12. ¿Cuando todo esté sometido al Hijo, a quién se someterá El mismo y porqué? 1 Corintios 15:28

 

Personal – ¿Cómo fue destruido tu miedo a la muerte?  Marca en la lista siguiente aquellos a quienes escuchabas cuando tomabas decisiones: madre, padre, cónyuge, hija/o, amiga/o, párroco, o la palabra de Dios.

 

 

CUARTO DIA MATEO 25:31-46 EVANGELIO

(“En verdad les digo que, cuando lo hicieron con uno de estos mis hermanos mas pequeños, lo hicieron conmigo.”)

1. Cuando el Hijo del Hombre venga en su gloria, ¿quiénes lo rodearán; dónde se sentará, y quiénes se reunirán frente a El?  Mateo 25:31-32

 

2. ¿Los que se reunieron, cómo serán separados?  Mateo 25:32-33

 

3. ¿Cómo recibirá uno su recompensa, buena o mala?  2 Corintios 5:10

 

4. ¿Qué dirá el Rey a aquellos que están a su diestra y por qué?  Mateo 25:34-36

 

5. ¿Qué clase de ayuno desea el Señor?  Isaías 58:6-7

 

6. ¿Quién es el virtuoso que vivirá?   Ezequiel 18:5-9

 

7. ¿Qué pidió el hombre justo al Señor y de qué lo aseguró el Rey?  Mateo 25:37-40

 

8. ¿Cómo dice Jesús que hallaremos nuestra vida y cuando recibes a otros, a quién estás recibiendo también?  Mateo 10:39-40

 

9. ¿Qué dirá el Rey a aquellos que están a la izquierda?  ¿Para quiénes está el fuego eterno preparado y qué es lo que estos dejaron de hacer?  Mateo 25:41-43

 

10. ¿Qué dice la Palabra de Dios acerca de la fe?  Santiago 2:14-17

 

11. ¿Qué preguntarán al Señor los que están a la izquierda y qué les responderá El? Mateo 25:44-45

 

12. ¿Qué les pasará a aquellos que fueron negligentes con uno de sus pequeños y que pasará a los justos?   Mateo 25:46

 

Personal – ¿De qué manera has dado alimento a los hambrientos y de beber a los sedientos?  ¿Esta semana, has acogido al forastero, vestido al desnudo, confortado al enfermo y visitado a los prisioneros?  Ora y ruega al Señor para que te revele aquellos en tu vida cotidiana que entran dentro de estas categorías.  Ruega para que El te muestre como podrías responder a las necesidades de ellos.

 

 

QUINTO DIA SALMO 23:1-3, 5-6

(“Junto a tranquilas aguas me conduce.”)

Lee y medita en el Salmo 23:1-3, 5-6.

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

 

¿Cómo puedes aplicar esto a tu vida diaria?

 

 

SEXTO DIA LEE TODO EL COMENTARIO

EZEQUIEL 34:11-12, 15-17

La lectura de hoy es una poderosa profecía dada por Dios a Ezequiel más de 500 años antes de la llegada de Cristo a la tierra.  Esta profecía fue cumplida al pie de la letra en Cristo.  Jesús fundó el nuevo rebaño, el nuevo pueblo elegido y el reino en la tierra.  Vemos en este pasaje que Dios mismo ha de ser su pastor.  El reemplazará a los pastores terrestres que fracasaron en sus deberes.  El describió la relación entre sí mismo y su pueblo bajo la imagen de las ovejas y su pastor.

Esta lectura es un consuelo enorme.  Nosotros podemos estar ciertos que Dios soberanamente tomará posesión del cargo de pastor de su rebaño disperso.  Cuando nuestros líderes nos fallan, no debemos desesperar, pero sí volvernos a Dios por ayuda.  Nunca debemos olvidar que El está siempre en control y puede, cambiar cualquier situación trágica, para producir bien para el reino. (Romanos 8:28)

Jesús nos dice que El es el Buen Pastor y que El conoce Sus ovejas y ellas lo conocen a El.  El constantemente busca a las perdidas y trae de vuelta a las extraviadas y desilusionadas.  Solo necesitamos prestar oído a su llamado en la oscuridad de nuestra alma.  Las ovejas conocen la voz de su pastor muy bien. Nosotros también necesitamos conocer la voz de nuestro Pastor.  Esto lo podemos hacer dedicándole quietamente, tiempo a solas con El cada día y escuchándole cuando El nos habla.  Necesitamos apaciguarnos y comprender que El es nuestro Dios, nuestro Pastor, nuestro Salvador, nuestro refugio, nuestra roca y nuestra fuerza.  (Salmo 46:10 y Salmo 91).

Un buen pastor cuida siempre su rebaño y lo alimenta antes de comer él mismo. Está atento a cada uno/a e inmediatamente les cura las heridas. Sana a los enfermos dándoles su amor, cuidados y atención. Necesitamos aceptar todo esto en nuestros corazones. Hoy, en muchos lugares, hay pastores que han abandonado sus manadas, mientras otros están abusando y aun matando sus rebaños. Nosotros podemos rogar por nuestros hermanos y hermanas que están viviendo tiempos de terror. Nosotros sabemos que un día el Buen Pastor, Nuestro Señor Jesús, retornará y sanará a los heridos, resucitará a los muertos y destruirá a los falsos profetas arrogantes, gordos, y robustos. (Ezequiel 34:16)

 

1 CORINTIOS 15:20-26, 28

El pasaje de hoy de 1 Corintios nos dice que la muerte vino al mundo a causa del pecado de Adán y Eva.  Mucha gente dice hoy, “¿por qué somos declarados culpables por algo que Adán hizo tantísimos siglos atrás?”  De manera que mucha gente piensa que no es justo que Dios nos juzgue por culpa del pecado de Adán; sin embargo, cada uno de nosotros confirmamos nuestra solidaridad con Adán por medio de nuestros propios pecados.  Parece ser que estamos hechos de la misma materia, propensos a rebeldía, y somos juzgados por los pecados que nosotros cometemos.

Porque todos somos pecadores, lo que necesitamos hoy no es imparcialidad, no, lo que necesitamos es misericordia.  Pablo nos dice que Cristo, con su muerte y resurrección, pagó el rescate por lo que Adán hizo.  Nosotros, los creyentes, nos hemos convertido en hermanos y hermanas de Cristo y participamos en Su resurrección.  Porque Cristo resucitó de entre los muertos, tú y todos los que creen en El pueden afrontar el mañana sin miedo.  Todos podemos mirar hacía la eternidad porque Cristo conquistará a la última enemiga y ésta es la muerte.  El papel de Cristo es el de vencer todo lo maligno en la tierra.  El venció al pecado por nosotros con Su muerte en la cruz.  En los días finales El vencerá a Satanás y todo lo diabólico.  Los acontecimientos mundiales pueden parecer totalmente fuera de control y la justicia puede ser difícil de encontrar, pero Dios está en control. Dios ha permitido que todo lo malo persista por un tiempo hasta que El mande a Jesús otra vez a la tierra.  Jesús presentará al Padre un mundo nuevo y perfecto.  La muerte no tendrá poder sobre nosotros.

Jesús nos dice, en 1 Juan 4:4, que el Espíritu en nosotros es más grande  que el que está en el mundo. Nosotros tenemos la iglesia, las sagradas escrituras y los sacramentos.  La fuente de verdad es Jesucristo y El es el mismo ayer, hoy y por siempre jamás.  (Hebreos 13:8)

 

MATEO 25:31-46

El Evangelio de hoy golpea el centro de lo que decimos creer.  Para decir que creemos tenemos que probarlo por la forma como actuamos.  Hablar con El Señor no es lo mismo que caminar con El Señor. Cuando caminamos con El Señor caminamos en las esquinas peligrosas, oscuras y solitarias de los corazones oprimidos y maltratados de la gente.

Un día Dios separará los discípulos obedientes de los falsos e incrédulos.  Hemos sido llamados a tratar a todas las personas como si fueran Jesús, y esto no es una tarea fácil.  Lo que hacemos por otros demuestra lo que realmente pensamos acerca de las palabras que Cristo nos dio – alimenten al hambriento, den amparo al destituido, visiten al enfermo y prisionero.  Otros observarán tus acciones, ¿te separarán de los falsos e incrédulos?  Jesús usó ovejas y cabras para mostrar la diferencia entre creyentes y no creyentes. Las ovejas y cabras a menudo pastoreaban juntas pero eran separadas al tiempo de la trasquila.

El Evangelio de hoy describe acciones de misericordia que todos podemos hacer cada día.  Estas son acciones simples dadas y recibidas libremente.  No tenemos excusas para descuidar a aquellos que tienen muchas necesidades y no podemos pasar esta responsabilidad a alguna agencia.  Jesús demanda un compromiso personal para atender a las necesidades de otros.  Muchos pueden decir que no tienen la oportunidad de visitar una prisión u hospital, trabajar en un dispensario de alimentos para los pobres, o en un refugio para desamparados.  Algunos hasta dicen que ellos no tienen los talentos necesarios para hacer estas cosas, pero Jesús nos pone realmente a prueba cuando dice: “Lo que hacen por el mas pequeño de estos, mis hermanos y hermanas lo hacen por mi.”

Recibimos el poder de hacer todo esto a través del Espíritu Santo que nos unge para alimentar al hambriento, libertar a los cautivos y dar vista a los ciegos (Lucas 4:8).  Esto puede ser verdad en tu propia familia y el hambre podría ser hambre de Cristo; la prisión podrían ser sus mentes humanísticas.  La ceguedad puede ser la inhabilidad de ver la verdad, la cual viene de la Sagrada Palabra de Dios (Juan 8:32). Nosotros podemos y debemos, por medio del Espíritu Santo, poner en libertad a nuestros hijos.

 

Aplicación

La primera lectura de esta semana revela que el Buen Pastor es Jesucristo.  La segunda lectura nos asegura que aún en las dificultades Dios está en control.  El Evangelio nos muestra que todos podemos hacer las obras de misericordia de Dios.

Esta semana elige una obra particular de misericordia y da a otra persona.  Quizá escribirle a un prisionero o a una persona en el hospital; visitar a alguien confinado o que vive solo.  Llévale comida a una persona anciana o un amigo enfermo.  Pasa unas horas en un dispensario de alimento para pobres.  Se voluntario por un tiempo en un negocio que usa donaciones y ventas para ayudar a gente en necesidad.  Si miras realmente de cerca, hasta podrías ver a Jesús sonriéndote y diciendo, “Gracias mi fiel sirviente.”

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe (November 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?

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY READ EZEKIEL 34:11-12, 15-17 FIRST READING

(“I myself will give them rest, says the Lord God.”)

l. What does the Lord God say he will do when he finds himself among his scattered sheep?   Ezekiel 34:11-12

 

2. What will he do to those who were scattered when it was cloudy and dark?   Ezekiel 34:12

 

3. What did God do when we were in the power of darkness? Colossians 1:13

 

4. Who does the Lord say will pasture his sheep and give them rest?   Ezekiel 34:15

 

5. Who does Jesus say he is?   John 10:11, 14

 

6. Whom will the Lord seek out, whom will he bring back, whom will he bind up, and whom will he heal?  Ezekiel 34:16

 

7. What did the Son of Man (Jesus) come to do?  Luke 19:10

 

8. Whom does the Lord heal?   Isaiah 61:1

 

9. What does the Lord do to the sleek and the strong, thus shepherding them rightly?   Ezekiel 34:16

 

10. Who is singled out in this world to shame the strong? 1 Corinthians 1:27-28

 

11. Between what does the Lord God judge?   Ez 34:17

 

Personal – How have you been healed by the Lord, and in what way has he brought you back when you went astray? What wounds has he bound up in you? Spend a few minutes in thanksgiving to the Lord.

 

 

THIRD DAY READ 1 CORINTHIANS 15:20-26, 28 SECOND READING

(“Just as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will come to life again.”)

1. From what has Christ been raised, and of whom is he the first fruits?   1 Corinthians 15:20

 

2. To what will he who raised Christ bring your mortal bodies, and how will he do it?   Romans 8:11

 

3. Whom will God bring forth with Jesus from the dead? 1 Thessalonians 4:14

 

4. How did death come, how did the resurrection of the dead come, and what is the proper order? 1 Corinthians 15:21-23

 

5. To whom did Adam listen, and what did God forbid him to do? Genesis 3:17

 

6. To whom did this single offense bring condemnation, and what did a single righteous act do?   Romans 5:18

 

7. Who will come down from heaven at the word of command, what will happen to those who have died in Christ, and what will happen to the living? 1 Thesselonians 4:16-17

 

8. When the end comes what will be destroyed, and what will be handed over to God the Father? 1 Corinthians 15:24

 

9. How long must Christ reign, and what is the last enemy? 1 Corinthians 15:25-26

 

10. Where is Christ seated, and of what is he the head? Ephesians 1:20-23

 

11. Through what has Christ robbed death of its power and brought life and immortality into clear light? 2 Timothy 1:10

 

12. When all has been subjected to the Son, to whom will he then subject himself, and why?  1 Corinthians 15:28

 

Personal – In what way has fear of death been destroyed in you? Check off on the list below those to whom you have been listening when making decisions: mother, father, wife, husband, daughter, son, friend, pastor, God’s Word.

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ MATTHEW 25:31-46 GOSPEL

(“I assure you, as often as you did it for one of my least brothers, you did it for me.”)

1. When the Son of Man comes in his glory, who will escort him; where will he sit, and who will be assembled before him? Matthew 25:31-32

 

2. How will those assembled be separated? Matthew 25:32-33

 

3. How does one receive his recompense, good or bad? 2 Corinthians 5:10

 

4. What will the king say to those on his right and for what reason?   Matthew 25:34-36

 

5. What kind of fasting does the Lord desire?  Isaiah 58:6-7

 

6. Who is the virtuous and the one who shall live? Ezekiel 18:7-9

 

7. What did the just man ask the Lord, and of what did the king assure him?   Matthew 25:37-40

 

8. How does Jesus say we discover who we are, and when we welcome others, whom do we also welcome?   Matthew 10:39-40

 

9. What will the king say to those on the left, for whom is the everlasting fire prepared, and what did they neglect to do?   Matthew 25:41-43

 

10. What does God’s Word say about faith?   James 2:14-17

 

11. What will those on the left ask, and what will he answer?   Matthew 25:44-45

 

12. What will happen to those who neglected one of the least ones, and what will happen to the just?   Matthew 25:46

 

Personal – In what ways have you given food to the hungry and drink to the thirsty? This week, have you welcomed a stranger, clothed the naked, comforted the sick, and visited those in prison? Pray and ask the Lord to reveal to you those in your everyday life who fit into these categories. Ask him how you might respond to them.

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 23:1-3, 5-6

(“Beside restful waters he leads me;”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 23:1-3, 5-6.

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

EZEKIEL 34:11-12, 15-17

Today’s reading is a powerful prophecy given by God to Ezekiel over 500 years before Christ came on earth. This prophecy was fulfilled to the letter in Christ. Jesus founded the new sheepfold, the new chosen people, and the kingdom on earth. We see in this passage that God himself would be their shepherd. He would replace the earthly shepherds that had failed in their duty. He described the relationship between his people and himself under the image of sheep and shepherd.

This reading is a tremendous comfort. We can be assured that God will sovereignly take over as pastor of the scattered flock. When our leaders fail us, we must not despair, but turn to God for help. We must never forget that he is still in control and can turn even this tragic situation over to produce good for the kingdom. (Rom. 8:28)

Jesus tells us that he is the Good Shepherd and that he knows his sheep and they know him. He constantly seeks out the lost and brings back the strayed and disillusioned. We need only to listen to his call in the darkness of our soul. The sheep know the shepherd’s voice very well. We need to know our shepherd’s voice also. We can do this by spending quiet time alone with him each day and listening to him speak to us. We need to be still and realize that he is our God, our shepherd, our savior, our refuge, our rock, and our strength (Psalm 46:10 and Psalm 91).

A good shepherd always takes care of his flock and he feeds them before he eats. He notices each one and immediately binds up any wounds. He heals the sick by giving them his love, skills and attention. We need to take all this into our heart. Today, in many places, there are shepherds who have abandoned their flock, while others are abusing and even killing their flock. We can pray for our brothers and sisters who are going through this time of terror. We know that one day the Good Shepherd, Our Lord Jesus, will return and he will heal the wounded, raise the dead, and will destroy the arrogant, fat, sleek, false shepherds (Ezekiel 34:16).

 

1 CORINTHIANS 15:20-26, 28

Today’s passage from 1 Corinthians tells us that death came into the world as a result of the sin of Adam and Eve. Today many people say, “How can we be declared guilty of something Adam did so many centuries ago?” So many people today think it is not right for God to judge us because of Adam’s sin, yet each of us confirms our solidarity with Adam by our own sins. We seem to be made of the same stuff, prone to rebel, and we are judged for the sins we commit.

Because we are all sinners, what we need today is not fairness; no, what we need is mercy. Paul tells us that Christ, through his dying and rising, paid the ransom for what Adam did. We who believe have become Christ’s brothers and sisters and share in his resurrection. Because Christ did rise from the dead, you and all who believe in him can face tomorrow without fear. We all can face eternity because Christ will conquer the ultimate enemy and that is death. Christ’s role is to defeat all evil on earth. He defeated sin for us with his death on the cross. In the final days he will defeat Satan and all evil. World events may seem totally out of control, and justice may be very hard to find, but God is in control. God has allowed evil to remain for a time until he sends Jesus back to earth again. Jesus will present to the Father a new and perfect world. Death need have no claim on us.

Jesus tells us in 1 John 4:4 that the Spirit in us is greater than he that is in the world. We have the church, sacred Scripture, and the sacraments. The source of truth is Jesus Christ, and he is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

 

MATTHEW 25:31-46

Today’s Gospel strikes at the very core of what we say we believe. To say that we believe is proved by how we act. To talk with the Lord does not mean to walk with the Lord. When we walk with the Lord we walk in the dark, dangerous, lonely corners of oppressed and beaten people’s hearts.

One day God will separate his obedient followers from the pretenders and unbelievers. We are called to treat all persons whom we encounter as if they are Jesus, and this is no easy task. What we do for others demonstrates what we really think about Jesus’ words to us – feed the hungry, give the homeless shelter, visit the sick and imprisoned. You will be observed by others, and will your actions separate you from the pretenders and unbelievers? Jesus used sheep and goats to show the division between believers and unbelievers. Sheep and goats often grazed together but were separated when it came shearing time.

Today’s Gospel describes acts of mercy that we all can do every day. They are simple acts freely given and freely received. We have no excuse to neglect those in deep need, and we can not hand over this responsibility to some agency. Jesus demands personal involvement in caring for the needs of others. Many people might say that they do not have the opportunity to visit a prison or hospital, work in a soup kitchen, or even a shelter for the homeless. Some even say that they do not have the special talents needed for this, but Jesus really lays it on the line when he says, “What you do to the least of my brothers and sisters, you do unto me.”

We get the power to do this through the Holy Spirit who anoints us to feed the hungry, set the captives free, and give sight to the blind (Luke 4:18). This could be right in your own family and the hunger might be for Christ; the prison might be their humanistic minds. The blindness may be their inability to see

the truth which comes from God’s Holy Word (John 8:32). We can and we must, through the Holy Spirit, set our children free.

 

Application

This week’s first reading reveals the Good Shepherd is Christ. The second reading assures us that even in turmoil God is still in control. The Gospel shows us that all of us can do God’s holy works of mercy.

This week pick out a particular work of mercy and give of yourself to another person. Maybe write to a prisoner or a person in a hospital. Visit a shut-in or someone who lives alone. Bring a meal to an elderly person or a sick friend. Spend a few hours at a soup kitchen. Volunteer some time in a thrift shop that uses its

donations and sales to help others in need. If you look real closely, you might just see Jesus smiling at you and saying, “Thank you, my faithful servant.”

Lectio Divina – Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (November 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

Matthew 25:14-30 – Jesus told His disciples this parable: “A man going on a journey called in his servants and entrusted his possessions to them. To one he gave five talents; to another two; to a third, one—to each according to his ability. Then he went away. Immediately the one who received five talents went and traded with them, and made another five. Likewise, the one who received two made another two. But the man who received one went off and dug a hole in the ground and buried his master’s money.

“After a long time the master of those servants came back and settled accounts with them. The one who had received five talents came forward bringing the additional five. He said, ‘Master, you gave me five talents. See, I have made five more.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.’

Then the one who had received two talents also came forward and said, ‘Master, you gave me two talents. See, I have made two more.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.’ Then the one who had received the one talent came forward and said, ‘Master, I knew you were a demanding person, harvesting where you did not plant and gathering where you did not scatter; so out of fear I went off and buried your talent in the ground. Here it is back.’ His master said to him in reply, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I did not plant and gather where I did not scatter? Should you not then have put my money in the bank so that I could have got it back with interest on my return? Now then! Take the talent from him and give it to the one with ten. For to everyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. And throw this useless servant into the darkness outside, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.’”

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

Trigésimo Tercer Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario (15 de Noviembre) – 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 PROVERBIOS 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31 PRIMERA LECTURA

(“La mujer que honra al Señor es digna de alabanza.”)

1. ¿Cuándo uno encuentra una esposa ejemplar, a que sobrepasa su valor?  Proverbios 31:10

 

2. ¿Qué tanto puede confiar en ella, el esposo que tiene una esposa valiosa?  ¿Qué le traerá esta suerte?   Proverbios 31:11

 

3. ¿De qué cosas se preocupa el hombre casado y qué significa esto?  1 Corintios 7:33

 

4. ¿Qué deben hacer las esposas con respecto a sus maridos, y por qué?  Efesios 5:23-24

 

5. ¿Cómo debe un esposo amar a su esposa?  Efesios 5:33

 

6. ¿Qué es lo que una esposa valiosa brinda a su esposo?  Proverbios 31:12

 

7. ¿Cuáles son algunas de las cosas que conoce y hace con sus propias manos? Prov. 31:13 y 31:19

 

8. ¿A quién tiende sus manos?  Proverbios 31:20

 

9. ¿Cuál cosa es engañosa y cuál fugaz?  ¿Quién es digna de alabanza?  Prov. 31:30

 

10. ¿A qué da principio el temer al Señor?  ¿Quién se deleita en sus mandatos?  Salmos 111:10 y 112:1

 

11. ¿Qué se le da y que la alaba en sus puestas de la ciudad?  Proverbios 31:31

 

Personal – ¿Si eres esposa, dónde encuentras tu valor en tu relación con tu esposo?  ¿Si eres esposo, cómo muestras tu amor a tu esposa?  A todos los hijos, chicos y grandes, ¿Cómo pueden compartir lo que aprendieron en esta lectura para ayudar a alguna pareja?

 

 

TERCER DIA 1 TESALONICENSES 5:1-6 SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“No nos quedemos dormidos como los otros, sino que permanezcamos sobrios y despiertos.”)

1. ¿Sobre qué no necesita Pablo escribirnos y cómo llegará el día del Señor? 1 Tesalonicenses 5:1-2

 

2. ¿Quién sabe el día o la hora en que viene el Señor?  Mateo 24:36

 

3. Justamente cuando la gente sienta “paz y seguridad,” ¿Qué le va a pasar?  ¿Cómo va a ser ese momento?  ¿Habrá algún escape?  1 Tesalonicenses 5:3

 

4. ¿Qué volverá a suceder en la venida del Hijo del Hombre?  Mateo 24:37-42

 

5. ¿Por qué el Día del Señor no nos sorprenderá cómo hace el ladrón?  1 Tesalonicenses 5:4

 

6. ¿En quién no hay tinieblas?  1 Juan 1:5

 

7. ¿Quién es aquel que dice estar en la luz pero que todavía está en tinieblas?  1 Juan 2:9

 

8. ¿De quién son todos ustedes hijos?  1 Tesalonicenses 5:5

 

9. ¿Cómo debemos permanecer y cómo no debemos quedarnos?  1 Tesalonicenses 5:6

 

10. ¿Qué otra razón hay para ser sobrios y estar alertas?  1 Pedro 5:8

 

Personal – Si el Señor Jesús viniera justamente en este momento, ¿qué te gustaría cambiar si tuvieras tiempo?

 

 

CUARTO DIA MATEO 25:14-30 EVANGELIO

(“Ven a compartir la alegría de tu Señor.”)

1. ¿Qué encargó a sus servidores el hombre que se fue de viaje?  Mateo 25:14

 

2. ¿Qué hicieron los discípulos y de acuerdo con qué?  Hechos 11:29

 

3. ¿Qué dio el hombre a sus servidores antes de marcharse?  Mateo 25:15

 

4. ¿Qué hicieron los dos hombres que recibieron las cantidades mayores y qué hizo el que recibió la menor?  Mateo 25:16-18

 

5. Después de larga ausencia, el señor regresó a casa.  ¿Qué dijeron e hicieron los dos servidores que tenían cinco y dos talentos?  Mateo 25:20-23

 

6. ¿Cuál fue la respuesta de su señor, qué les dijo y qué les confió?  Mateo 25:21-23

 

7. ¿A qué gente le confiarás lo que has oído?  2 Timoteo 2:2

 

8. ¿A qué se parece el confiar en una persona impía?  Proverbios 25:19

 

9. ¿Qué compartió el señor con los dos primeros servidores?  Mateo 25:21, 23

 

10. ¿Cómo participaremos la alegría de Jesús?  Juan 15:9-11

 

11. ¿Qué dijo acerca de su patrón el hombre que recibió un talento y qué hizo por miedo? Mateo 25:24-25

 

12. ¿Qué le dijo su señor y que hizo con él?  Mateo 25:26-30

 

13. ¿Qué es lo que echa fuera al temor?  ¿Con qué tiene que ver el temor?  1 Juan 4:18

 

14. ¿Qué debemos evitar y qué debemos imitar?   Hebreos 6:12

 

Personal – ¿En la medida en que Dios te ha dado fe, cómo la has hecho crecer en los últimos seis meses?  ¿La has compartido con los de tu alrededor?  ¿A cuál de los servidores te pareces?

 

 

QUINTO DIA SALMO 128:1-5

(“Felices los que temen al Señor.”)

Lee y medita en el Salmo 128:1-5.

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

 

¿Cómo puedes aplicar esto a tu vida diaria?

 

 

SEXTO DIA LEE TODO EL COMENTARIO

PROVERBIOS 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31

La lectura de hoy es un tanto inusual en el sentido de que se trata de un testimonio de alabanza a la esposa ideal.  Es algo raro de encontrar en el Antiguo Testamento, ya que en la cultura de ese tiempo la mujer no tenía demasiada importancia en la vida pública, civil o religiosa.  La verdadera importancia del mensaje de hoy está en el poder y alabanza a una esposa fiel y sabia.

Vemos aquí a una mujer que primero que nada es fiel a Dios, después a su esposo y finalmente a sus hijos.  Ella está en perfecto orden, como se nos dice en las Escrituras (1 Corintios 11:3).  La lectura de hoy estimula tremendamente a las madres cristianas de todas las edades.  La mujer ideal de la Escritura de hoy es también la esposa ideal y la madre ideal en la vida real, en el mundo de hoy.  Gran parte de nuestra sociedad ha rechazado el papel sagrado que tiene la esposa y madre y como resultado tenemos una terrible destrucción del papel y el lugar que debe tener la familia.

Una esposa ideal es una mujer con una fe y un carácter muy firme, y una gran compasión.  Mucha gente piensa que la mujer ideal en la Biblia era tímida, servil y completamente dedicada a su hogar.  Y no es así.  La mujer ideal es la que pone a Jesucristo primero que nadie en su vida y que ha sido bendecida con muchas gracias y talentos.  Sus habilidades, inteligencia, firmeza e integridad no vienen de sus propios esfuerzos sino que son el resultado de su reverencia a Dios.

A nuestra sociedad, para la cual la apariencia física cuenta tanto, le sorprenderá darse cuenta que la apariencia de una mujer no se menciona.  Su belleza viene completamente de su carácter.  En la televisión, las películas, las revistas y los libros, se nos empuja la idea de que la mujer tiene que verse como una reina de belleza para ser bien aceptada.  En la lectura de hoy se alienta a la mujer a ser todo lo que pueda ser.  Esas cualidades cuando se juntan al temor al Señor, guían hacia el poder disfrutar, tener éxito, honores y valer mucho.

 

1 TESALONICENSES 5:1-6

Hacer esfuerzos para determinar cuando regresará Cristo fue y es algo tonto.  Oímos a gente que asegura saber cuando regresará el Señor, algunos hasta describen la hora y el lugar y lo que pasará cuando esto suceda.  No se dejen engañar por alguien que asegure saber esto.

En la lectura de hoy nos dicen que nadie sabe y que hasta los creyentes estarán sorprendidos cuando esto suceda.  Pablo nos dice que el Señor regresará cuando menos lo esperemos.  Por eso debemos estar listos.  Debemos planear nuestras vidas como sí fuéramos a vivir en la tierra para siempre y vivirla como si este fuera el último día.

Supongamos que Jesús regresara hoy, ¿cómo encontraría tu vida?  Estás listo para encontrarlo y decirle, Señor, he decidido seguirte y estoy listo para irme contigo.  El día del Señor es un tiempo en el futuro en el que Dios intervendrá directamente en los asuntos del mundo.  El día del Señor incluirá tanto el castigo como la bendición.  Cristo juzgará el pecado y establecerá su reino eterno.  Los que creemos en Dios somos hijos de la luz y no tenemos por que tener miedo al momento del juicio.  Tenemos la luz del Evangelio la iluminación de la verdadera fé.

Si continuamos viviendo y practicando nuestra fe bajo esa luz, la llegada de la muerte no será en la oscuridad.  Debemos estar preparados espiritualmente para ello.  Debemos permanecer despiertos y estar sobrios.  O sea, estar preparados viviendo nuestra fe cristiana cada día.  Todavía tenemos tiempo de escoger entre Cristo y el mundo para que sea el centro de nuestra vida.  ¿Qué te gustaría haber cambiado si Cristo llegara hoy?  ¡Pues, anda y cámbialo ya!

 

MATEO 25:14-30

En el Evangelio de hoy vemos que el patrón dividió el dinero entre sus sirvientes de acuerdo a sus habilidades.  Nadie recibió más o menos de lo que estaba dentro de sus posibilidades.  Si falló aquel, no fue debido a que estaba abrumado.  La falla vino o por que fue flojo o por que odiaba a su patrón.  Dios nos da tiempo, habilidades y otros recursos y espera que los utilicemos correctamente hasta que El regrese.  Somos responsables de usar bien lo que Dios nos ha dado y de lo cual nos tomará cuentas.

Lo importante no es cuanto tenemos, sino qué hacemos con lo que tenemos.  Jesús va a regresar y no tenemos que renunciar a nuestro trabajo para servir a Dios.  Lo que sí debemos hacer, es ser diligentes usando nuestro tiempo, nuestros talentos y nuestro tesoro para servir a Dios totalmente en todo lo que hagamos.  Para algunas personas eso puede significar cambiar de profesión.  Un ejemplo sería alguien que esta trabajando en donde tiene que participar en abortos.  Otro sería alguien que trabaja en un medio donde la pornografía es una cosa común.  Para la mayoría significa hacer nuestro trabajo diario de un modo que sea reverente a Dios.

El último hombre, en la historia de hoy, estaba pensando sólo en sí mismo, haciendo las cosas de modo que fuera seguro y que estuviera protegido de su exigente patrón.  Al final él fue juzgado por su egocentrismo.  Debemos prestar mucha atención a esta última parte del Evangelio de hoy.  No pongamos excusas evitando hacer lo que Dios quiere que hagamos.  Somos cuidadores, no dueños.  Cuando ignoramos o abusamos de lo que se nos ha dado, estamos rebelándonos y somos pecadores.  Haremos bien en recordar que el pago del pecado es la muerte (Romanos 6:23).

 

Aplicación

La primera lectura de esta semana nos revela que la verdadera belleza está en el carácter.  La segunda lectura muestra que debemos vivir una vida de preparación.  El Evangelio nos dice que Dios premia a los que tienen fe.

Esta semana fíjate y alaba el carácter de tu esposa o de tu madre “ideal.”  Se específico y hazle saber lo que sientes por ella debido a su belleza interna.  Toma tiempo para hablar con tu esposa, sácala a distraerse un rato.  Tráele un regalo (flores, dulces, etc.).  Que sienta el amor que tienes por ella.  No hagas chistes sobre ella (sobre su edad, o su figura, etc.) y no la critiques en público.  Dios te premiará por tu lealtad, tu cortesía y por tu amor a esa tan especial “esposa ideal.”  Visita a tu madre si ya está grande donde quiera que se encuentre.  A ella la llegará más tu amor por tu presencia que por los regalos que le hagas.

Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (November 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?

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY READ PROVERBS 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31 FIRST READING

(“The woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”)

l. When one finds a worthy wife, what is her value far beyond? Proverbs 31:10

 

2. What does a worthy wife’s husband entrust to her, and what kind of a prize does he have?   Proverbs 31:11

 

3. What is the married man busy doing, and what does this mean?   1 Corinthians 7:33

 

4. How should the wives be toward their husbands, and who is the head of the wife?   Ephesians 5:23-24

 

5. How should a husband love his wife?   Ephesians 5:33

 

6. What does a worthy wife bring her husband? Proverbs 31:12

 

7. What does she obtain, make, and do with her hands? Proverbs 31:13 31:19

 

8. To whom does she reach out her hands and extend her arms? Proverbs 31:20

 

9. What is deceptive and fleeting, and who is to be praised? Proverbs 31:30

 

10. Of what is the fear of the Lord the beginning, and who greatly delights in his commands? Psalm 111:10, Psalm 112:1

 

11. What is she given, and what praises her at the city gates?   Proverbs 31:31

 

Personal – If you are a wife, what gives you value in your relationship with your husband? If you are a husband, how do you show love to your wife? To all children, young and old, how can you help a husband and wife by sharing what you have learned in this lesson?

 

 

THIRD DAY READ 1 THESSALONIANS 5:1-6 SECOND READING

(“…let us not be asleep like the rest, but awake and sober.”)

1. What do we not need to write you, and how is the day of the Lord coming?   1 Thessalonians 5:1-2

 

2. Who knows the day or hour of the Lord’s coming?  Matthew 24:36

 

3. Just when people are saying “Peace and security,” what will fall on them? What will it be like, and will there be any escape?   1 Thessalonians 5:3

 

4. What will the coming of the Son of Man repeat? Matthew 24:37-42

 

5. What are we not in, that the day should find us off guard and like a thief?   1 Thessalonians 5:4

 

6. In whom is there no darkness?   1 John 1:5

 

7. Who is the man who claims to be in the light but is still in the dark?   1 John 2:9

 

8. Of what are all of us children?   1 Thessalonians 5:5

 

9. What should we not be, but what two things should we be? 1 Thessalonians 5:6

 

10. What is another reason for staying sober and alert? 1 Peter 5:8

 

Personal – If the Lord Jesus were to come right at this moment, what would you change in yourself if you had the time?

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ MATTHEW 25:14-30 GOSPEL

(“Come, share your master’s joy.”)

1. What did the man going on a journey hand over to his servants, and to what was it in accordance? Matthew 25:14-15

 

2. What did the disciples do, and to what was it in accordance? Acts 11:29

 

3. What did the man disburse to the three servants before going away?   Matthew 25:15

 

4. What did the two men do who received the larger amounts, and what did the one who received the smaller amount do? Matthew 25:16-18

 

5. After a long absence, the master came home. What did he do, and what did the servants who have received the five thousand and the two thousand say and do? Matt 25:20-23

 

6. What was their master’s response, what three things did he say about his servants, and of what did he put them in charge?   Matthew 25:21-23

 

7. To what kind of people must we hand on what we have heard?   2 Timothy 2:2

 

8. What is it like to depend on a faithless man? Proverbs 25:19

 

9. In what do the first two servants share?  Matthew 25:21, 23

 

10. How may we have Jesus’ joy?   John 15:9-11

 

11. What did the man who received the thousand say about his master, and what did he do out of fear? Matthew 25:24-25

 

12. What did his master say to him, and what did he have done with him?   Matthew 25:26-30

 

13. What casts out fear, and with what does fear have to do? 1 John 4:18

 

14. In what should we not grow, and whom should we imitate? Hebrews 6:12

 

Personal – In the measure of faith that God has granted you, share how it has grown in the past six months. Have you been sharing it with those around you? Which of the servants do you see as similar to you?

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 128:1-5

(“Happy are you who fear the Lord.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 128:1-5.

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

PROVERBS 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31

Today’s reading is a somewhat unusual reading in the sense that it is a testimony of praise to the ideal wife. This is rather rare in the Old Testament because in the culture of that time women played a minor role in public, civil or religious life. The real power in today’s message is in the power and praise of a wise and faithful wife.

We see in this reading a woman who is faithful first to God, then to her husband, and finally to her children. She is in perfect order as we are told in Scripture (1 Cor. 11:3). Today’s reading gives tremendous encouragement to the Christian mothers of all ages. The ideal woman of today’s Scripture is still the ideal wife and mother of today’s real-life world. Much of our society has rejected the sacred role of wife and mother, and as a result, we have tremendous destruction in the role and place of the family.

An ideal wife is a woman of strong faith, character, and great compassion. Many people think that the ideal woman in the Bible was shy, servile, and completely domestic. This is not so. The ideal woman is one who puts God first in her life and has been blessed with many gifts and talents. Her abilities, intelligence, strength, and integrity do not come from her amazing achievements, but as a result of her reverence of God.

In our society, where physical appearances count for so much, it may surprise us to realize that a woman’s appearance is never mentioned. Her beauty comes entirely from her character. We are assaulted by television, movies, magazines, and books that a woman has to look like a beauty queen in order to be accepted. Today’s reading encourages a woman to be all that she can be. These qualities when coupled with fear of the Lord, lead to enjoyment, success, honor, and worth.

 

1 THESSALONIANS 5:1-6

Efforts to determine the date of Christ’s return were foolish then and they are foolish today. We hear different people claiming to know when the Lord will be coming back, and some even describe the time, place, and the action that will accompany the return. Do not be mislead by anyone who claims to know.

We have been told in today’s reading that no one knows, and that even the believers will be surprised when it happens. Paul tells us that the Lord will return suddenly and unexpectedly. We are told by Paul to be ready. We should plan our lives as if we were going to live on earth forever and live our lives as if this were the last day.

Suppose Jesus were to return today. How would he find you living your life? Are you ready to meet him and say, “Lord, I have decided to follow you and I am ready to go with you?” The day of the Lord is a future time when God intervenes directly in world affairs. The day of the Lord will include both punishment and blessing. Christ will judge sin and set up his eternal kingdom. We who believe in God are children of the light and we do not have to be afraid of that moment of judgment. We have the light of the Gospel – the illumination of the true faith.

If we continue to live and practice our faith in that light, the coming of death will not be in the darkness. We shall spiritually be prepared for it. We are called to keep awake and be sober. This means being prepared by living our Christian faith every day. You still have time to choose Christ, or the world, to be the center of your life. If Jesus came today, what would you wish you had changed? Then change it now!

 

MATTHEW 25:14-30

In today’s Gospel we see that the master divided the money among his servants according to their abilities. No one received more or less than he could handle. If he failed, it could not be because he was overwhelmed. Failure could come only from laziness or hatred toward the master. God gives us time, abilities, and other resources, and he expects us to invest wisely until he returns. We are responsible for using well what God has given us, and we will be held accountable.

The real issue is not how much we have, but what we do with what we have. Jesus is going to return, and for us to serve God does not mean that we have to quit our jobs. It does mean that we have to diligently use our time, talents, and treasure to serve God completely in whatever we do. For some people, it may mean changing professions. An example would be someone who is in a career that participates in abortion. Another is someone who works in the media where pornography is a common product. For most, it means doing our daily work in a manner that gives reverence to God.

The last man in today’s story was thinking of himself only, by playing it safe and protecting himself from his hard task master. In the end he was judged for his self-centeredness. We need to really heed the message of this last part of today’s Gospel. We must not make excuses to avoid what God has called us to do. We are caretakers, not owners. When we ignore or abuse what we are given, then we are rebellious and sinful. We might do well to remember that the wages of sin is death (Rom. 6:23).

 

Application

This week’s first reading reveals that real beauty is in the character. The second reading shows that we must live a life of preparedness. The Gospel tells us that God rewards faithfulness.

This week, point out and praise the character of your “ideal” wife or mother. Be specific and let her know how you feel about her internal beauty. Take time out to talk with your wife, take her out of the house. Bring her a special gift (flowers, candy, etc.). Let her experience your love for her by being there for her. Don’t make jokes about her (age, weight, etc.) and don’t criticize her in public. God will reward your loyalty, your courtesy, and your loving your very special “ideal” wife. Visit your mother as she grows older, whether she is in her own home or in a convalescent home. She will experience being loved more by your presence than by your presents.

Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (November 8th) – 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 WISDOM 6:12-16 FIRST READING

(“He who watches for her at dawn shall not be disappointed.”)

l. What is resplendent and unfading, readily perceived by those who love her, and found by those who seek her? Wisdom 6:12

 

2. In what did Jesus advance?   Luke 2:52

 

3. With what two things are reputable men filled? Acts 6:3

 

4. In anticipation of men’s desire, what does wisdom do? Wisdom 6:13

 

5. Whose name has Jesus made known, and what will Jesus make known?   John 17:25-26

 

6. What will happen to those who watch for wisdom at dawn? Wisdom 6:14

 

7. What should we not reject, and what makes a man happy? Proverbs 8:32-34

 

8. What is the perfection of prudence, and how can we be free from care?   Wisdom 6:15

 

9. Who is wisdom seeking?   Wisdom 6:16

 

10. Who is most worthy of honor?   Hebrews 3:3

 

11. In what way can we live a life worthy of the calling we have received?   Ephesians 4:1-3

 

Personal – Look back to when you made your First Holy Communion and write down on a piece of paper the ways you have grown in wisdom since then. When you awake in the morning, ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom. Make a conscious effort to seek after her this week.

 

 

THIRD DAY READ 1 THESSALONIANS 4:13-18 SECOND READING

(“Thenceforth, we shall be with the Lord unceasingly.”)

1. Who would have you be clear about those who sleep in death? To whom are they speaking, and for what reason? 1 Thessalonians 1:1 4:13

 

2. From where do we derive our hope?   Romans 15:4

 

3. What do we not have when we are without God in the world? Ephesians 2:12

 

4. If we believe that Jesus died and rose, what will God do?   1 Thessalonians 4:14

 

5. What helps us believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and what gives us life?   John 20:30-31

 

6. What will those who live, who survive until his coming, be without?   1 Thessalonians 4:15

 

7. What will the Lord do at the word of command and with what sound? What will happen to those who have died in Christ? 1 Thessalonians 4:16

 

8. If we obey the commands of Jesus, what will he do? John 14:15-16

 

9. After those who have died in Christ rise, what will happen to the living, the survivors?  1 Thessalonians 4:17

 

10. With what are we to console one another? 1 Thessalonians 4:17

 

Personal – What do you know about the personality of God that makes you look forward to being with him unceasingly?

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ MATTHEW 25:1-13 GOSPEL

(“Keep your eyes open, for you know not the day or the hour.”)

1. To what can the reign of God be compared? Matthew 25:1

 

2. What were they like?   Matthew 25:2

 

3. How are we not to act, and what are we to try to discern? Ephesians 5:15-17

 

4. What did the foolish bridesmaids, in taking their torches, not bring, and what did the sensible ones bring? Matthew 25:3-4

 

5. What happened to the bridesmaids when the groom delayed his coming, and what happened at midnight?   Matthew 25:5-6

 

6. What did the foolish bridesmaids say to the sensible ones, and what was their reply?   Matthew 25:7-9

 

7. What happened when the foolish bridesmaids went off to buy some oil, what happened to the sensible ones, and what was barred behind them?   Matthew 25:10

 

8. What happened when the other bridesmaids came back, and what did the master say?   Matthew 25:11-12

 

9. What is the moral to the story?   Matthew 25:13

 

10. What will every eye see, even those who pierced him? Revelation 1:7

 

Personal – In what way have you been preparing for the coming of the Lord? Do you have a reserve of oil so that the light you are carrying stays lit day and night?

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 63:2-8

(“O God, you are my God whom I seek,”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 63:2-8.

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

WISDOM 6:12-16

The book of Wisdom was written about 150 B.C. It was written in Greek, and was, therefore, excluded from the Jewish canon. We have been told in this reading that wisdom is recognized by those who love the truth and seek true knowledge. The man who searches for true wisdom and really hungers and thirsts for it will not have far to seek. Today wisdom is ever present to the man or woman who seriously and prayerfully thinks on life and its value.

Today’s reading really brings us to that age-old question, “What is truth?” Jesus tells us that he is the way, the truth, and the life. Today some people are like a hitchhiker hoping someone will give him a ride. When asked where he was going, he said, “I don’t know.” When questioned where had he been? He again answered, “I don’t know.” People like this are on a journey that goes only from the cradle to the grave. Their main purpose in life is to fit into these short years all the pleasures that this world has to offer. The rise of secularism in our countries has brought about a tremendous decline in the moral and spiritual life of millions of people. Today many people want to fit as much fun and leisure as possible into their life.

There still is a high degree of apathy, apostasy, and anarchy in our struggling group of nations. Much of this humanism, self-gratification, and my-way theology has had an enormous impact on the concept and lifestyle of the Christian family.

We have had 21 centuries of Christianity from which to learn the clear meaning of life which Christ’s life, death, and resurrection brought into the world. This true knowledge, this true wisdom is within the reach of all peoples. We need to use our gifts, which have come from God, and reach out to those around us. Let us respond to his call with prayer, study, and action (liturgy, penance and Holy Eucharist). They will know we are Christians by the way we share our life and time and give spiritual support.

 

1 THESSALONIANS 4:13-18

In this reading, Paul wants the Thessalonians to know that death is not the end of the story for Christians. They were very much concerned about what would happen to their fellow believers who had died before Christ returned. Paul states to them that when Christ returns all believers, both dead and alive, will be reunited, never to suffer or die again. Paul also reveals to us a teaching that was given to him by Christ or passed along by word of mouth by the apostles to other Christians.

These words of Paul were a tremendous help to the Thessalonian people, and they challenge us today to comfort and encourage one another when one of our loved ones has died. The same love that unites believers in this life will unite others when Christ returns and reigns forever. We must always remember what we are told in Scripture, “For God so loved the world, he gave his only Son so that anyone who believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16).

Because Jesus came back to life, so will all those who believed in him. Every faithful Christian, both living and dead, will enjoy the reward of being in the full presence of the living God for all of eternity. Think about what will happen on that tremendous day of judgment. All believers in Christ who are dead will rise from their graves. All believers who are alive will be lifted into the clouds and meet Christ. We do not need to despair when a loved one dies or even when world events take a dark turn for the worse. God will turn our sorrows into triumphs, our poverty to riches, our sickness into health, our pain to glory, and our defeat into victory.

All of God’s children will stand once again united in the incredible presence of God. We will be safe and secure for all eternity. Paul gave great hope and comfort to the people with the promises of the resurrection. Today you and I are called to comfort and reassure one another with this great hope. Let us always remember the “Good News” is a message of hope and the message of “Jesus.”

 

MATTHEW 25:1-13

Jesus tells us in today’s reading that it is very important to be prepared for his return and to live in his commandments until he comes. We are taught through the story of the ten bridesmaids that accountability will be expected of all believers with no exceptions. We are taught that every person is responsible for his or her own spiritual condition. Jesus is telling what will happen on that day of his return to some of those whom he has chosen and to whom he had given every opportunity to reach their one and only goal.

The bridesmaids in the story were chosen for a great honor, and they were expected to be ready when the celebration began. The bridesmaids were generally intimate friends of the bride who went through a lot of trouble to prepare for the occasion, and yet, through carelessness, were found unworthy to share in the festivities.

Jesus describes this incident to bring home to his listeners the need to be constantly prepared for his return. The invitation that Christians receive is the Sacrament of Baptism. The Christian starts on the road to heaven and he gets his invitation to the heavenly nuptials, but this is only the beginning. He is expected from the time of reason to prepare himself by living in accordance with God’s law. “Abide in me and keep my commandments and I will abide in you.” (John 15:7)

To abide means to take up residence or to live with or in another. We are to live in Christ by keeping his commandments and that means to love him with all our heart and soul, mind, and strength. We are also to love our neighbors as ourselves.

The call will come for each one of us, and we will be held accountable for our lives and our preparedness. Do not be like the foolish bridesmaids who did not plan and then through carelessness missed the great event. Today, fall on your knees and pray for the Holy Spirit to let his fire fall upon you. Let the Lord have your offering of a contrite spirit, a heart that is humble and contrite (Psalm 51:13). It is up to you, filled with the grace of the Holy Spirit, to decide where you will be found on the last day. Will you be with the wise bridesmaids or with the foolish ones?

 

Application

The first reading revealed that truth is the core of wisdom and knowledge. The second reading showed the strength of being able to hope. The Gospel shows us that we are to prepare and act on our preparations.

This week, at the end of every day, evaluate your actions and their results. Be accountable and honest with yourself. See how you are walking with the Lord. Write down what the Lord is saying to you regarding your accountability to him. He will help you to take action to be prepared for anything.

Trigésimo Segundo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario (8 de Noviembre) – 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 SABIDURIA 6:12-16 PRIMERA LECTURA

(“El que la busque a la madrugada no será desilusionado.”)

1. ¿Qué es resplandeciente y qué no palidece, siempre pronta a ser percibida por aquellos que la aman y encontrada por aquellos que la buscan?  Sabiduría 6:12

 

2. ¿En qué crecía Jesús?   Lucas 2:52

 

3. ¿De qué dos cosas están llenos los hombres de buena reputación?  Hechos 6:3

 

4. ¿Anticipando los deseos del hombre que es lo que la sabiduría hace?  Sabiduría 6:13

 

5. ¿El nombre de quién ha dado a conocer Jesús?  ¿Qué es lo que Jesús dará a conocer?  Juan 17:25-26

 

6. ¿Qué sucederá a aquellos que esperan por la sabiduría a la madrugada?  Sabiduría 6:14

 

7. ¿Qué es lo que no debes rechazar y que es lo que hace feliz al hombre? Proverbios 8:32-34

 

8. ¿En qué consiste la prudencia perfecta y como has de estar libre de inquietud? Sabiduría 6:15

 

9. ¿Quién busca la sabiduría?  Sabiduría 6:16

 

10. ¿Quién es más merecedor de honor?  Hebreos 3:3

 

11. ¿Cómo hemos de comportarnos en la vida para ser merecedores del llamado que hemos recibido?   Efesios 4:1-3

 

Personal – Mira en tu pasado cuando hiciste tu Primera Comunión y escribe en un papel cómo o en qué manera has crecido en sabiduría desde entonces.  Cuando te despiertes por la mañana, pide al Espíritu Santo por sabiduría.  Has un concienzudo esfuerzo de buscarla esta semana.

 

 

TERCER DIA 1 TESALONICENSES 4:13-18 SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“Y para siempre estaremos con el Señor.”)

1. ¿Quiénes se deseaba que estuvieran bien enterados acerca de los que ya descansan en la muerte? ¿A quién le están hablando y por qué razón?  1 Tesalonicenses 1:1 y 4:13

 

2. ¿De dónde derivamos nuestra esperanza?  Romanos 15:4

 

3. ¿Qué es lo que no se tiene cuando se está sin Dios en el mundo?  Efesios 2:12

 

4. ¿Si creemos que Jesús murió y resucitó, que es lo que Dios hará?  1 Tesalonicenses 4:14

 

5. ¿Qué te ayuda a creer que Jesús es el Mesías, el Hijo de Dios y qué es lo que te da la vida?  Juan 20:30-31

 

6. ¿Qué es lo que no tendrán aquellos sobrevivientes, los que tengan vida cuando venga El? 1 Tesalonicenses 4:15

 

7. ¿Qué es lo que el Señor mismo hará a la voz de mando y con qué sonido?  ¿Qué sucederá a aquellos, los que han muerto en Cristo?  1 Tesalonicenses 4:16

 

8. ¿Si obedecemos los mandamientos de Jesús, que es lo que El hará?  Juan 14:15-16

 

9. ¿Después que aquellos muertos en Cristo resuciten, qué sucederá a los vivientes, los que han sobrevivido?  1 Tesalonicenses 4:17

 

10. ¿Con qué han de consolarse unos a otros?  1 Tesalonicenses 4:17

 

Personal – ¿Qué sabes de la personalidad de Dios que te hace mirar hacía adelante para estar con El incesantemente?

 

 

CUARTO DIA MATEO 25:1-13 EVANGELIO

(“Vigila con ojos abiertos, pues no sabes el día ni la hora.”)

1. ¿A qué se puede comparar el Reino de Dios?  Mateo 25:1

 

2. ¿A qué se asemejaban ellas?  Mateo 25:2

 

3. ¿Cómo es que no debemos comportarnos, y qué debemos tratar de discernir? Efesios 5:15-17

 

4. ¿Qué no trajeron las vírgenes necias al tomar las lámparas y que trajeron las prudentes?  Mat. 25:3-4

 

5. ¿Qué les pasó a las vírgenes cuando el esposo tardó en venir y que sucedió a medianoche? Mateo 25:5-6

 

6. ¿Qué dijeron las vírgenes necias a las prudentes y qué les respondieron éstas? Mateo 25:7-9

 

7. ¿Qué pasó mientras las vírgenes necias fueron a comprar algo de aceite?  ¿Qué pasó a las prudentes y que se cerró detrás de ellas?  Mateo 25:10

 

8. ¿Qué pasó cuando las otras regresaron y qué dijo el Señor?  Mateo 25:11-12

 

9. ¿Cuál es la moraleja de la narración?  Mateo 25:13

 

10. ¿Qué es lo que todo ojo verá, aún aquellos que lo  atravesaron?  Apocalipsis 1:7

 

Personal – ¿En qué forma te has estado preparando para la venida del Señor?  ¿Tienes reserva de aceite para que la luz que llevas esté prendida día y noche?

 

 

QUINTO DIA LEE SALMO 63:2-8

(“Oh Dios, Tú eres mi Dios a quien yo busco.”)

Lee y medita en el Salmo 63:2-8.

¿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

SABIDURIA 6:12-16

El libro de Sabiduría fue escrito alrededor del año 150 A.C.  Fue escrito en griego y fue, por lo tanto, excluido del canon judaico.  En esta lectura nos han dicho que la sabiduría es reconocida por aquellos que aman la verdad y buscan el verdadero conocimiento.  El hombre que procura conseguir la verdadera sabiduría no tendrá que ir lejos a buscarla.  Hoy la sabiduría está al alcance de todo hombre y mujer que seriamente y devotamente piensa en la vida y los valores de ésta.

La lectura de hoy nos trae realmente a esa antigua pregunta: “¿Qué es la verdad?” Jesús nos dice que El es el camino, la verdad y la vida.  Hay gente hoy que es como uno que pide un aventón esperando que alguien le dé pasaje gratuito, si se le pregunta adonde se dirige contesta “Yo no sé.”  Gente como esta están en un viaje que los lleva solo de la cuna a la tumba.  El único propósito en sus vidas es el de encajar en estos cortos años todos los placeres que el mundo ofrece.  El surgimiento del secularismo en nuestros países ha traído una declinación tremenda en la vida moral y espiritual de millones de personas.  Hoy, mucha gente, quiere acomodar tantas diversiones y placeres dentro de sus vidas como les sea posible.

Hay todavía un alto grado de apatía, apostasía y anarquía en nuestro extraviado y desorientado grupo de naciones.  Mucho de este humanismo, gratificación personal y la Teología “es cosa mía” ha tenido un impacto enorme en el concepto y estilo de vida de la familia cristiana.

Hemos tenido 21 siglos de Cristiandad para aprender el claro significado que la vida, muerte y resurrección que Cristo trajo al mundo.  Este verdadero conocimiento y esta verdadera sabiduría están al alcance de todas las gentes.  Necesitamos usar nuestros dones y talentos que nos vienen de Dios y extenderlos a aquellos que nos rodean.  Respondamos a Su llamado con oración, estudio y acción (liturgia, penitencia y Eucaristía).  Han de saber que somos cristianos por la manera como compartimos nuestra vida y tiempo y por el modo como demos apoyo espiritual.

 

1 TESALONICENSES 4:13-18

En esta lectura Pablo quiere que los tesalonicenses sepan que la muerte no es el fin de la historia para los Cristianos.  Ellos estaban muy preocupados por lo que les sucedería a sus compañeros creyentes muertos antes de la vuelta de Cristo.  Pablo les afirma que cuando Cristo regrese, todos los creyentes, ambos muertos y vivos, serán reunidos para nunca más sufrir o morir.  Pablo también nos revela una enseñanza que le fue dada a él por Cristo o pasada de palabra por los apóstoles a otros Cristianos.

Estas palabras de Pablo fueron una ayuda enorme para los habitantes de Tesalonia y son hoy un desafío para nosotros llamándonos a darnos valor y consolarnos los unos a los otros cuando una persona querida muere.  El mismo amor que une a los creyentes en esta vida unirá a otros cuando Cristo vuelva para reinar por siempre.  Debemos siempre recordar que la escritura nos dice que: “Dios amó tanto al mundo que le dio Su único Hijo, para que, quien crea en El no perezca sino que tenga vida eterna”.  (Juan 3:16)

Debido a que Jesús volvió a vivir, así también todos aquellos que crean en El.  Cada Cristiano fiel, sea vivo o muerto, tendrá el premio de estar en plena presencia del Dios vivo por toda la eternidad.  Piensa que pasará en ese terrible día del juicio.  Todos los creyentes en Cristo que están muertos han de levantarse de sus tumbas.  Todos los creyentes que viven serán levantados hacia las nubes para ir al encuentro de Cristo. No necesitamos desesperarnos cuando una persona querida muere o aún cuando los hechos mundiales toman un giro oscuro hacía lo peor.  Dios cambiará nuestras angustias en triunfos, nuestra pobreza en riquezas, nuestras enfermedades en salud, nuestros dolores en gloria y nuestra derrota en victoria.

Todos los hijos de Dios estarán una vez más, unidos en la presencia de Dios mismo.  Estaremos salvos y seguros por toda la eternidad.  Pablo dio gran esperanza y consuelo a la gente con las promesas de la resurrección.  Hoy, tú y yo somos llamados a consolarnos y asegurarnos unos a otros con esta gran esperanza.  Recordemos siempre que la “Buena Nueva” es un mensaje de esperanza y es el mensaje de Jesús.

 

MATEO 25:1-13

Jesús nos dice en la lectura de hoy que es muy importante estar preparado para su retorno y vivir Sus mandamientos hasta que El venga.  Se nos enseña con la historia de las diez vírgenes que se esperara rendición de cuentas de todos los creyentes sin excepciones.  Se nos enseña que cada persona es responsable de su propia condición espiritual.  Jesús está diciendo lo que va a suceder el día de su retorno a algunos de aquellos, a quienes El ha elegido y dado toda la oportunidad para alcanzar su meta primera y única.

Las vírgenes en la historia fueron elegidas para un gran honor y se esperaba de ellas que estuvieran listas al comienzo de la celebración.  Las vírgenes eran generalmente íntimas amigas de la novia que pasaron por una cantidad de inconvenientes preparándose para la ocasión y aún así, solo por ser descuidadas se las encontró inmerecedoras de compartir en las festividades.

Jesús describe este incidente para confrontar a sus oyentes con la necesidad de estar constantemente preparados para su vuelta.  La invitación que los Cristianos reciben es en el Sacramento del Bautismo.  El Cristiano comienza el camino al cielo y recibe su invitación a las nupcias celestiales, pero esto es solo el principio.  Se espera de él, desde el momento que le empieza la razón, que se prepare a vivir de acuerdo con las leyes de Dios.  “Habita en mi y guarda mis mandamientos y yo permaneceré en ti” (Juan 15:7).  Habita quiere decir tomar residencia – vivir con o en.  Debemos vivir en Cristo guardando sus mandamientos y esto quiere decir amarlo con todo nuestro corazón, alma, mente y fuerza.  Debemos también amar a nuestro prójimo como a nosotros mismos.

El llamado vendrá para cada uno de nosotros y deberemos rendir cuentas por nuestras vidas y por nuestro grado de preparación.  No te parezcas a las vírgenes necias que no planearon y luego por descuidadas perdieron asistir al gran evento.  Hoy, arrodíllate y ruega al Espíritu Santo que deje caer Su fuego sobre ti. Deja al Señor recibir tu ofrecimiento, tu espíritu contrito y tu corazón que es humilde y contrito (Salmo 51:13).  Está en ti decidir lleno de gracia del Espíritu Santo, donde se te encontrará el último día.  ¿Estarás con las vírgenes prudentes o con las necias?

 

Aplicación

La primera lectura revela que la verdad es el centro de la sabiduría y conocimiento.  La segunda lectura muestra la fuerza de ser capaz de esperar.  El Evangelio nos hace ver que debemos prepararnos y actuar en nuestras preparaciones.

Esta semana, al fin de cada día, evalúa tus acciones y los resultados derivados de éstas.  Sé responsable y honesto/a contigo mismo.  Escribe lo que el Señor te está diciendo con respecto de darle cuentas a El.  El te ayudará a estar preparado por y para cualquier cosa.