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Lectio Divina – 4th Sunday of Advent (Dec 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 1:18-24 – This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.” When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

 

Lectio Divina – 3rd Sunday of Advent (Dec 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 11:2-11 – When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus with this question, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.” As they were going off, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, “What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? ‘Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. Then why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written: Behold I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you. Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

 

Lectio Divina – Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Dec 9th)

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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 1:26-38 – In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

 

Cuarto Domingo de Adviento (22 de Dic) – 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 ISAIAS 7:10-14     PRIMERA LECTURA

(“El Señor, pues, les dará esta señal”.)

1. ¿A quién le habló el Señor y por medio de quién habló? Isaías 7:10 y Isaías 7:3

 

2. ¿Quién es Ajaz? Isaías 7:1

 

3. ¿Qué le iba a pedir Ajaz a Dios? Isaías 7:11

 

4. ¿Cuál fue la respuesta de Ajaz a esta pregunta? Isaías 7:12

 

5. ¿Qué le dijo Isaías a Ajaz? Isaías 7:13

 

6. ¿Qué le dio el Señor a Ajaz? Isaías 7:14

 

7. ¿Cuál fue la señal que le dio? Isaías 7:14

 

8. ¿Qué le dijeron los Fariseos y maestros de la ley a Jesús, y cuál fué su respuesta? Mateo 12:38-40

 

9. ¿Cuál fue la señal dada a los pastores? Lucas 2:12, 16-17

 

Personal – ¿De que modo has cansado a Dios buscando señales constantemente aparte del nacimiento de la virgen? ¿En qué forma es Jesús tu señal?

 

 

TERCER DIA     LEE ROMANOS 1:1-7     SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“Por, Cristo Jesús, nuestro Señor, recibí la gracia y la misión de apóstol.”)

1. ¿A quién le estaba enviando saludos y como se refiere a sí mismo?     Romanos 1:1

 

2. ¿Para que fue llamado y para qué ha sido apartado? Romanos 1:1

 

3. ¿Dónde fue anunciado lo que prometió hace mucho tiempo por medio de sus profetas? Romanos 1:2

 

4. ¿A quién se refiere el Evangelio, de quién descendió y cómo descendió de él?Romanos 1:3

 

5. ¿Cómo fue hecho El, Hijo de Dios? Romanos 1:4

 

6. ¿Cuáles son las dos razones por las que has sido llamado tú? Romanos 1:5

 

7. ¿Qué debemos de esparcir en lo concerniente a su nombre? Hechos 4:12

 

8. ¿A quién somos llamados a pertenecer? Romanos 1:6

 

9. ¿A quién le estaba hablando Pablo? Romanos 1:7

 

10. ¿A qué dijo que ellos habían sido llamados y con qué los saluda de parte de Dios nuestro Padre y el Señor Jesucristo? Romanos 1:7

 

Personal – ¿En qué forma te vez a ti mismo(a) llamado(a) esparcir el nombre de Jesús igual como lo fue Pablo? ¿Cómo te puedes convertir en un apóstol para Jesús con tu familia y amistades?

 

 

CUARTO DIA     LEE MATEO 1:18-24     EVANGELIO

(“Y dará a luz un hijo, al que pondrás el nombre de Jesús, porque él salvará a su pueblo de sus pecados.”)

1. ¿Cómo sucedió el nacimiento de Jesucristo?  Mateo 1:18

 

2. ¿Por medio del poder de quién se encontró María esperando un niño?   Mateo 1:18

 

3. ¿Quién era José y que tipo de hombre era?  Mateo 1:19

 

4. ¿Cuál era la intención de José, cómo se le apareció el ángel del Señor, y qué le dijo?  Mateo 1:19-20

 

5. ¿Cuándo se le volvió a aparecer un ángel a José en un sueño, qué le dijo que hiciera, y cuál fue su respuesta?  Mateo 2:13-14

 

6. ¿Qué dijo el ángel que iba a tener María, cómo lo iba a nombrar, y por qué?  Mateo 1:21

 

7. ¿Porqué pasó todo esto, quién era el profeta, y que dijo?  Mateo 1:22, Isaías 7:14

 

8. ¿Qué significa su nombre y qué hizo José cuando se despertó?  Mateo 1:23-24, Isaías 8:8, 10

 

9. ¿Mientras José reconocía a Dios hablándole por medio de un ángel, qué demostró con su obediencia?  Juan 14:21

 

10. ¿Qué no hizo antes de que María diera nacimiento a un hijo, y qué nombre le dio José al niño?   Mateo 1:25

 

11. ¿Qué dicen las siguientes escrituras acerca del nombre de Jesús? Juan 14:13, Hechos 2:21 y 4:12, Filipenses 2:9-10

 

Personal – ¿Cuándo y en dónde reconoces más la presencia de Dios en tu vida?  ¿Qué necesitas hacer para percibir a “Emmanuel, Dios contigo” más completamente en tu vida?  ¿Qué tan seguido piensas, sientes, vives y llamas el nombre de Jesús en tu vida diaria?

 

 

QUINTO DIA     LEE EL SALMO 24:1-6

(“La bendición divina el logrará.”)

Lee y medita el Salmo 24:1-6.

¿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

ISAIAS 7:10-14

Este pasaje nos enseña la generosidad increíble de Dios cuando le insiste a Ajaz que le pida una señal. Esta señal le demostraría a Ajaz que Dios quería protegerlo y derrotar a sus enemigos. El Rey rehusó y parecía casi justo diciendo que él no probaría a Dios con una señal. La verdad de todo era que Dios le había dicho que pidiera pero Ajaz no estaba seguro de lo que Dios diría. Muchos de nosotros usamos la misma excusa, diciendo que no queremos molestar a Dios con nuestros problemas insignificantes. Esto nos impide ser realistas y comunicarnos honestamente con El.

Necesitamos recordar seriamente y agarrarnos fuerte de la escritura en 1 Corintios 2:9: “El ojo no ha visto, el oído no ha oído, a nadie se le ocurrió pensar lo que Dios ha preparado para los que lo aman.” Dios nos ama tanto que El está constantemente dándonos señales de Su presencia y amor. Necesitamos reflexionar por un momento en cuántas veces El ha estado presente para nosotros en la forma de personas que están en nuestras vidas. Dios le dio a Ajaz y a todos nosotros la señal más grande de todos los tiempos. El dijo que un niño nacería de una virgen y que ella le llamaría “Emmanuel.” Esto quiere decir “Dios está con nosotros” y siempre estará con nosotros hasta el final de los tiempos (Mateo 28:20). Esta fue una gran profecía del Mesías.

La gente Judía esperó por más de setecientos años y cuando Cristo nació en una pobre cueva y tomó el papel de un niño desvalido, la señal de todas las señales fue ignorada por los incrédulos. Hay mucha gente en el mundo hoy en día que es incrédula y que está buscando una señal. Tú eres esa señal, tú estás llamado a ser esa luz. Tú estás llamado a ser un embajador de Dios. Ellos sabrán que Dios está presente por medio de la señal en la forma en que nos amemos los unos a los otros.

 

ROMANOS 1:1-7

Este pasaje fue escrito por Pablo quién no había ido a Roma todavía. Era imposible pensar que un ciudadano Romano se llamara a sí mismo esclavo; y aún así, eso era lo que Pablo se llamaba a sí mismo, un esclavo de Jesucristo. Pablo escogió ser completamente obediente y dependiente de su amado Jesús. Necesitamos reflexionar en nuestra propia actitud hacia Cristo. ¿Es Cristo tu Maestro? ¿Dependes y eres obediente a Jesucristo? Pablo habla de Jesús siendo parte de la línea real Judía y de haber nacido y resucitado de entre los muertos. Pablo creyó totalmente que Jesús era el Mesías prometido, y el Señor resucitado. Pablo les dice a los Romanos de su acuerdo con la enseñanza de todas las escrituras y de la enseñanza oral tradicional de los apóstoles. Pablo enfatiza que la gracia de Dios verdaderamente es un privilegio no merecido y que también está acompañado por una responsabilidad de compartir el perdón de Dios con los demás. Esta es nuestra responsabilidad, ser testigos para el mundo. Tal vez Dios nunca te llame a ser testigo en otro país, pero El te está llamando a ser testigo donde estas ahora. Roma era la capital del mundo. La ciudad era rica, pero moralmente se estaba muriendo. Muchas ciudades grandes en el mundo se están enfrentando al mismo destino ahora. La Cristiandad estaba en desacuerdo con muchos elementos de la cultura Romana.

Los Romanos confiaban en que su poder militar los protegería de sus enemigos. ¿Te suena familiar este modo de pensar? Los Cristianos estaban siendo exhortados a mantenerse firmes en su punto de vista acerca de la moralidad. Estaría bien que nos fijáramos en nuestro alrededor en nuestra propia sociedad y ver si los valores tradicionales de una familia tales como la santidad de la vida, matrimonio, y castidad están siendo amenazados por una forma de vivir pagana. Pablo demostró su amor hacia la iglesia Romana al expresar su amor por ellos, y nosotros necesitamos hacer eso también. Necesitamos buscar y apoyar a nuestros líderes de la iglesia y decirles que los amamos y apoyamos en este ministerio. Necesitamos dar testimonio del mandamiento de Jesús de “Ámense los unos a los otros como yo los he amado” (Juan 13:14).

 

MATEO 1:18-24

Este pasaje se dirige al porque de la importancia del nacimiento virginal para la gente de fe Cristiana. Debido a que Jesús nació de una mujer, El fue completamente humano. También siendo el Hijo de Dios, El fue ambos, completamente humano y divino. Nos podemos identificar totalmente con Jesús porque El era humano y era como nosotros, porque El experimentó todo tipo de tentación sufrió como nosotros las sufrimos hoy en día. En Su vida entera, Jesús nunca cometió un pecado. Por esta razón El entiende nuestra debilidad y nos ofrece su perdón.

Podemos acercarnos a Dios con reverencia y hasta sin miedo cuando oramos porque sabemos que El verdaderamente entiende todas nuestras necesidades. No es necesario que nos sintamos incómodos cuando vamos frente a nuestro Señor en oración, porque El nos ama tanto y ha estado donde estamos ahora, y tiene la habilidad de ayudarnos. Necesitamos entender la importancia del nacimiento virginal para poder aceptar la situación que rodea el nacimiento de Cristo. María estaba comprometida con José cuando quedó embarazada, y José fue confrontado con muy pocas opciones para resolver el problema de su prometida que estaba embarazada, pero no de él.

El matrimonio Judío era la culminación de tres pasos. El primero era cuando la pareja se comprometía, generalmente después de que sus familias acordaban la unión. Más tarde, cuando se hacía un anuncio público, la pareja estaba “comprometida.” Esto se consideraba unión y se podía romper solamente por medio de divorcio o muerte. Sin embargo, no se permitía una relación sexual, hasta después de que la pareja estaba casada. El tiempo del “compromiso” era para planear donde iban a vivir, llenar el lugar con muebles, etc. El embarazo de María mostraba una infidelidad aparente que llevaba un estigma social severo. José, de acuerdo a la ley Judía tenía derecho de divorciarse de ella o que la apedrearan enfrente de la casa del padre de María (Deut. 22:23,24). A José se le dijo en un sueño que siguiera el deseo de Dios y que tomara a María como su esposa. El Señor le dijo que María había concebido esta criatura por medio del poder del Espíritu Santo. Reflexiona por un momento en como reaccionarías tu en una situación como ésta. José escogió obedecer el mandato de Dios de casarse con ella a pesar de la humillación obvia la cuál ambos experimentaron de parte de la gente del pueblo. Las acciones de José revelaron varias cualidades admirables que los jóvenes de ahora harían bien en imitar. El demostró un principio sólido, discreción y sensibilidad. El era muy responsable con Dios y demostró una tremenda disciplina de sí mismo.

José tomó la opción de Dios y esta fue la de casarse con María. Dios nos enseña que si lo obedecemos, El nos enseñará más opciones de lo que nosotros creemos posible para vivir de acuerdo a Su voluntad. Nunca debemos olvidar que Dios tomó en sí mismo las limitaciones de la humanidad para poder vivir y morir por la salvación de todos los que creen en El.

 

Aplicación

La primera lectura nos enseña que Dios quiere que nos comuniquemos con El (en oración) para que El nos pueda llenar con Su generosidad increíble. La segunda lectura nos dice que la obediencia y dependencia en Jesucristo es el único camino a la libertad. El Evangelio revela que el valor y la reverencia es lo que El quiere de nosotros por medio de la oración.

Ponte de rodillas y dale gracias a Cristo por haber venido a la tierra para poder morir en la cruz por tus pecados. Luego pídele que tome control de tu vida y pídeles a los miembros de tu familia que se unan a tí al ponerte de rodillas y darle alabanza y adoración por venir y estar contigo. Por eso es que le llamaron “Emmanuel.”

Tercer Domingo de Adviento (15 de Dic) – 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 ISAIAS 35:1-6, 10     PRIMERA LECTURA

(“La alegría y la felicidad los acompañarán.”)

1. ¿Qué exaltará y florecerá y por qué?  Isaías 35:1-2

 

2. ¿Cuál es la respuesta al ver la gloria del Señor?  Isaías 35:2

3. ¿Qué debemos hacer con las manos que son frágiles y las rodillas que son débiles?   Isaías 35:3

 

4. ¿Qué les debemos decir a los que tienen miedo en sus corazones? Isaías 35:4

 

5. ¿Por qué no debemos temer?  Isaías 35:4, 41:10 y Zacarías 8:13

 

6. ¿Qué les pasará a los ojos de los ciegos y los oídos de los sordos?  Isaías 35:5

 

7. ¿Qué les pasará a los cojos y a la lengua de los mudos?  Isaías 35:6

 

8. ¿Quién regresará y qué entrarán haciendo en Zión?  Isaías 35:10

 

9. ¿Con qué serán coronados, y que se alejará de ellos?  Isaías 35:10

 

Personal – ¿En qué forma te ven regocijándote en tu vida los de tu familia, tus amistades o tus compañeros de trabajo? ¿Cómo puedes, de una manera alegre, demostrar tu aprecio por lo que Dios ha hecho por ti?

 

 

TERCER DIA     LEE SANTIAGO 5:7-10     SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“Sean también pacientes y valientes, porque la venida del Señor está cerca.”)

1. ¿Qué debemos ser hasta la venida del Señor?  Santiago 5:7

 

2. ¿Qué hace el labrador?  Santiago 5:7

 

3. ¿Qué debes de hacer tú también y por qué?  Santiago 5:8

 

4. ¿Qué dice 1 Corintios 13:14 acerca de la paciencia?

 

5. ¿Qué no debes hacer y por qué?  Santiago 5:9

 

6. ¿Quién está de pie en la puerta?  Santiago 5:9

 

7. ¿Quién es el que nos va a juzgar?  1 Corintios 4:5

 

8. ¿Para qué ha separado Dios a Jesús?  Hechos 10:37-42

 

9. ¿Quiénes son nuestros modelos en el sufrimiento?  Santiago 5:10

 

10. ¿En nombre de quién hablaron los profetas?  Santiago 5:10

 

Personal – ¿En qué forma has sufrido por hablar en el nombre de Jesús? ¿En qué forma has sido modelo para tu familia, amistades o compañeros del trabajo? ¿Cómo entra la paciencia en tu vida? Reflexiona en esto.

 

 

CUARTO DIA     LEE MATEO 11:2-11     EVANGELIO

(“Se predica la Buena Nueva a los desdichados”)

1. ¿Dónde estaba Juan cuando se dio cuenta de los trabajos que Cristo estaba haciendo y a quién envió a hacerle una pregunta a Jesús?  Mateo 11:2

 

2. ¿Cuál era el mensaje de Juan y porqué estaba en la prisión?  Mateo 3:1-2 14:3-4

 

3. ¿Cuál era la pregunta que Juan envió a sus discípulos a hacerle a Jesús?  Mateo 11:3

 

4. ¿Qué respondió Jesús, especialmente sabiendo quién les ha estado predicando las Buenas Nuevas? Mateo 11:4-5

 

5. ¿Cuáles dos cosas les dijo Jesús que le reportaran a Juan y quién es bendito?  Mateo 11:4, 6

 

6. ¿A quién le pertenece el reino de Dios?  Lucas 6:20

 

Personal – ¿En qué forma estás siendo bendecido(a) por medio de lo que escuchas y ves que está pasando a tu alrededor?

 

7. Mientras los mensajeros se iban, ¿acerca de quién le habló Jesús a la muchedumbre, y qué pregunta les hizo concerniente a lo que ellos estaban buscando?  Mateo 11:7-9

 

8. ¿Qué aseguró Jesús a Juan y qué dice la escritura acerca de Juan?  Mateo 11:9-10

 

9. ¿Qué dijo Jesús que ha hecho la historia?  Mateo 11:11

 

10. ¿A quién considera Jesús más grande que Juan Bautista?  Mateo 11:11

 

Personal – ¿En qué forma te reafirma Jesús por las acciones que has tomado al tratar con los que están a tu alrededor?

 

 

QUINTO DIA     LEE EL SALMO 146:6-10

(“El Señor libera a los oprimidos”)

Lee y medita el Salmo 146:6-10.

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

 

¿Cómo puedes aplicar esto a tu vida diaria?

 

 

SEXTO DIA     LEE TODO EL COMENTARIO

ISAIAS 35:1-6, 10

Isaías ha dado un mensaje de juicio en todas las naciones en casi todos los treinta y cuatro capítulos anteriores. Su mensaje incluye Judea e Israel constantemente rechazando al Dios de Abraham, Jacob y Moisés. Hubo tiempos de alivio y restauración en la historia del pueblo escogido pero estos parecían ser solamente en los momentos más difíciles. Un grupo pequeño de fieles creyentes prevalecían durante estos tiempos de la ira y juicio de Dios.

En este pasaje vemos a Isaías trayéndole a la gente una visión de esperanza, belleza y ánimo. Se les muestra un Dios de juicio, pero también se les muestra un Dios de bondad increíble. Vemos a un Dios que es perfecto en su amor e íntegro en su odio al pecado. Dios ha mostrado su amor por todo esto que El ha creado por medio de su piedad interminable. Muchos han fallado en responderle a su amor por las tentaciones del mundo. El ha extendido su amor incomparable y su bondad infinita para todos los que se arrepientan y regresen a El. También nosotros gozamos de los beneficios de su piedad, y también nosotros seremos parte del reino final, el cuál se describe tan hermosamente en este pasaje.

Este será el tipo de mundo que tú y yo esperaremos después del juicio, cuando toda la creación se regocije en Dios. El razonamiento y los tiempos de tribulación terminan con el principio de este pasaje. La vida después del juicio final será tranquila y alegre porque estaremos en “casa” alabando al Dios viviente por los siglos de los siglos. Aún ahora mientras leemos esto, Jesucristo, nuestro Señor y Salvador, está preparando un lugar para nosotros (Juan 14:1-6) y está preparándonos el camino. El caminará con nosotros en este camino a “casa”. Este camino irá del desierto del sufrimiento a las bendiciones de la vida eterna. Solamente se puede viajar en el cuando seguimos a Dios. Nuestro Señor Jesús nunca dejará de señalarnos el camino. El está siempre a nuestro lado mientras caminamos. Vamos a seguir esa visión. Permitamos que nuestro camino sea santo. Vamos a responder todos al llamado de Dios y guiar a otros a la carretera santa de Dios que lleva al cielo.

 

SANTIAGO 5:7-10

Para entender este pasaje uno tiene que darse cuenta que la iglesia temprana vivía en la esperanza del regreso inmediato de Jesucristo. Santiago está exhortando a la gente para que sean pacientes en los pocos años que quedaban. El habla acerca del granjero que tiene que esperar pacientemente por la primera y última lluvia para que su cosecha madure. El granjero necesita mucha paciencia para esperar hasta que la naturaleza haga su trabajo, y el Cristiano necesita mucha paciencia en su vida hasta que Cristo venga de nuevo. Durante este tiempo de sembrar y cosechar deben de confirmar su fe, al apoyarse y ayudarse uno al otro en todas las circunstancias. Un granjero dependía bastante de la ayuda de sus vecinos a la hora de la cosecha y el apoyo era muy necesario, no las críticas.

Hoy en día no tenemos muchos granjeros, pero todavía estamos ocupados sembrando las semillas de la vida. También nosotros debemos de estar listos para ayudar a nuestro vecino, no solamente a la hora de la cosecha, sino también en los tiempos de desastre. La iglesia temprana estaba equivocada pensando que Jesús regresaría dentro de una generación, pero el llamado a apoyarse y amarse uno al otro es todavía una gran parte del camino Cristiano. Es muy interesante notar que ambos los Cristianos y los granjeros deben vivir por medio de la fe. Mucha gente culpa a otros cuando las cosas empiezan a ir mal en sus vidas (Génesis 3:12,13). El no querer tener nuestra propia parte de responsabilidad es la causa de que muchos ataquen y culpen a otros. Este método es más fácil y más visible, pero también es destructivo y pecador.

Necesitamos reflexionar en los que se está diciendo en este pasaje y aplicarlo a nuestras propias vidas. Lo que se está diciendo es que antes de que cualquiera de nosotros juzgue a otros deberíamos estar muy al tanto de que Cristo, el juez real, vendrá a evaluarnos (Mateo 7:1-5). Nuestra paciencia necesita estar en nuestra habilidad de poner las necesidades de otros antes que las propias. También necesitamos orar para tener valor y para que nos sostenga en la guerra contra el pecado. Solamente cuando pasamos por las pruebas y sufrimientos alcanzamos la gracia y el valor de la paciencia. La historia nos ha enseñado como muchos de los profetas del Antiguo y Nuevo Testamento han sufrido pacientemente por el amor a Jesucristo. Nosotros que somos llamados al camino Cristiano podemos esperar nuestra cruz del sufrimiento la cuál con fe y paciencia cargaremos a todas partes donde la gente diga “tengo sed.”

 

MATEO 11:2-11

La carrera de Juan Bautista había terminado en pedazos. El estaba ahora en la prisión, puesto ahí por del Rey Herodes. Juan nunca buscó suavizar la verdad y era incapaz de ver maldad sin ponerse en contra de ella. El Rey Herodes le robó la esposa a su hermano y vivía con ella en pecado. Juan habló sin miedo y Herodes tomó su venganza. Juan reflexionó mientras estaba en la prisión acerca de si Jesús era realmente el Mesías. Juan pensaba que su trabajo era estar afuera predicándole a la gente y preparándola para Jesús. ¿Cómo podía hacer esto mientras estaba en la cárcel? ¿Suena un poco familiar, no es verdad?

Muchas veces en nuestras vidas pensamos que se nos está bloqueando para hacer lo que pensamos es lo mejor. Se nos puede detener por falta de salud, mucha edad o hasta por la falta de la habilidad natural para hacer lo que pensamos que el Señor nos está llamando a hacer. Jesús le contestó a Juan sus dudas diciéndole que mirara a su alrededor y se fijara en lo que se estaba haciendo en la comunidad. Los ciegos podían ver, los sordos podían oír. Los leprosos estaban siendo sanados y la gente estaba siendo resucitada de entre los muertos y predicando las buenas nuevas. La respuesta de Jesús para Juan fue que el reino de Dios está a la mano (Marcos 1:15). La identidad de Jesús fue obvia para Juan cuando escuchó la respuesta que Jesús le había enviado.

También nosotros debemos reflexionar sobre nuestra salvación y nuestro propio nivel de duda. Solamente necesitamos mirar la evidencia en la escritura y los cambios en nuestra propia vida. Hemos visto como El nos ha perdonado nuestros pecados y cuando dudamos, no necesitamos alejarnos de El. En realidad, cuando tenemos sentimientos de duda entonces es cuando debemos voltearnos totalmente a El. Necesitamos observar a Juan y ver quién y que era él. El era un hombre que vivía en el desierto y estaba muy apegado a la tierra. El no tenía ropas elegantes y no comía comida exótica. Algunas gentes creían que estaba loco, y aún así se juntaban para escucharlo y verlo. El habló con autoridad y humildad. El era duro con los que no obedecían la ley y estaba en sumisión total a Cristo. Hoy en día el estilo de Juan probablemente fuera causa de risa para todo el pueblo porque su mensaje era muy sencillo y muy claro. El mensaje básico de Juan era “Arrepiéntanse, el reino de Dios está a la mano” (Marcos 1:15).

Mucha gente hoy en día no se quiere arrepentir porque “arrepentirse” significa un cambio de vida total. Todos somos pecadores (Romanos 3:23) y todos estamos llamados al arrepentimiento. Ponte de rodillas y quédate quieto y escucha a nuestro Dios (Salmo 46:10). Luego pídele que crea en tí un corazón limpio que esté lleno con pensamientos y deseos nuevos (Salmo 51:10). El mensaje de Juan eran las “Buenas Nuevas” y eso era que Jesús era el Mesías tan esperado y que había venido a empezar el reino de Dios en la tierra. Jesús ofreció libertad a los pobres, los oprimidos, y los que no tenían esperanza, y eso es lo mismo que hace El ahora. Entonces arrepiéntanse y estén de buen humor, porque el reino de Dios está de verdad a la mano.

 

Aplicación

La primera lectura muestra un Dios que es justo y piadoso. La segunda lectura nos dice que la paciencia es una virtud de Dios, y el Evangelio revela un llamado al arrepentimiento, ¡ahora!

Esta semana, deja que tus acciones hablen por si mismas en tu casa, trabajo, y escuela. La paciencia y bondad son señales claras de amor. Arrepentirse quiere decir cambiar. Empieza a ser humilde y paciente ahora. Permíteles a los demás que sean primero en la línea, los primeros en comer, los primeros para hablar. Sé el primero en dar y dar libremente. Tu testimonio será una tremenda señal de que “el reino de Dios está a la mano.”

Solemnidad da la Inmaculada Concepción de la Bienaventurada Virgen María (9 de Dic)

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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 GENESIS 3:9-15, 20     PRIMERA LECTURA

(“Te pisará la cabeza, mientras tú te abalanzarás sobre su talón.”)

1. ¿Quién llamó al hombre y que le preguntó?  Génesis 3:9

 

2. ¿A quien vino a llamar Jesús?  Marcos 2:17

 

3. ¿Por qué se escondía el hombre?  Génesis 3:10

 

4. ¿Con qué anhelamos ser revestidos?  2 Corintios 5:1-3

 

5. ¿Qué le preguntó Dios al hombre?  Génesis 3:11

 

6. ¿Qué dijo el hombre acerca de la mujer y qué hizo éste?  Génesis 3:12

 

7. ¿Qué le preguntó el Señor a la mujer y quién dijo ésta que la había engañado?  Génesis 3:13

 

8. ¿Cuál fue el temor que tenía Pablo que podría corromper a la gente de Corinto?  2 Corintios 11:3

 

Personal – ¿Cuando pierdes la paz de Dios qué está dentro de ti a quién culpas?  ¿Quién es responsable?

 

9. ¿Qué le dijo el Señor a la serpiente?  ¿Qué dijo que pondría entre la serpiente y la mujer y a que se abalanzaría él?  Génesis 3:14-15

 

10. ¿Para qué debemos estar siempre listos y quien aplastará a Satanás bajo nuestros pies?   Romanos 16:19-20

 

11. ¿Cómo llamó el hombre a su mujer y por qué?  Génesis 3:20

 

Personal – ¿De qué modo puedes proteger a tu mente y a tus pensamientos del Malvado?

 

 

TERCER DIA     LEE EFESIOS 1:3-6, 11-12     SEGUNDA LECTURA

(“…nos eligió para ser su pueblo, para alabanza de Su gloria.”)

1. ¿Quien será bendito y con qué nos ha bendecido El a nosotros?  Efesios 1:3

 

2. ¿Cuáles son las dos cosas que el Padre nos muestra?  2 Corintios 1:3

 

3. ¿Como nos eligió Dios para estar frente a El y cuando nos eligió?  Efesios 1:4

 

4. ¿Cómo nos hacemos puros y sin mancha?  Efesios 5:25-27

 

5. ¿Cuando determinó Dios que nos adoptaría y de acuerdo con qué?  Efesios 1:4-5

 

6. ¿A quiénes les concedió ser hijos de Dios?  Juan 1:12

 

7. ¿A quién debemos alabar?  Efesios 1:6

 

8. ¿Cómo fuimos escogidos nosotros y como planea y guía Dios todas las cosas?  Efesios 1:11

 

9. ¿Qué pasa con aquellos que son llamados de acuerdo con Sus propósitos y como somos predestinados?  Romanos 8:28-29

 

10. ¿Con qué propósito existimos?  Efesios 1:12

 

Personal – ¿Cuando las cosas nos salen bien a quién le damos gloria?  ¿De qué modo muestran tus acciones que tú has sido escogido por Dios?

 

 

CUARTO DIA     LEE LUCAS 1:26-38     EVANGELIO

(“Hágase en mi según tu palabra.”)

1. ¿Quién fue mandado por Dios a un pueblo de Galilea llamado Nazaret?  Lucas 1:26

 

2. ¿Fue enviado para ver a quién?  ¿Cuál era su nombre?  Lucas 1:27

 

3. ¿Que le dijo el ángel a María y cual fue su reacción a éste saludo?  Lucas 1:28-29

 

4. ¿De qué le dijo el ángel que no tuviera miedo?  ¿Qué le dijo que le iba a pasar?  Lucas 1:30-33

 

5. ¿Que dijo Jesús a Sus discípulos y qué es lo que quita el temor?  Mateo 14:27 y 1 Juan 4:18

 

6. ¿Cuál fue la respuesta de María al ángel cuando éste le dijo que concebiría y daría luz a un hijo?

Lucas 1:34

 

7. ¿Quién dijo el ángel que descendería sobre María, quién la cubriría con su sombra y cómo iban a llamar al niño?  Lucas 1:35

 

8. ¿Qué le dijo el ángel a José que no temiera y como le dijo que había sido concebido el niño en María?  Mateo 1:20

 

9. ¿Qué le dijo el ángel a María acerca de Isabel y que dijo acerca de Dios?  Lucas 1:36-37

 

10. ¿Cuál fue la respuesta de María y que hizo el ángel?  Lucas 1:38

 

Personal – ¿Cuál es el plan específico que Dios tiene para tu vida?  ¿Respondes como lo hizo María “Hágase en mí según tu palabra”?  Piensa y ora acerca de esto.

 

 

QUINTO DIA     LEE SALMO 98:1-4

(“El Señor trajo la salvación y la reconocieron los pueblos.”)

Lee y medita el Salmo 98:1-4.

¿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

GENESIS 3:9-15, 20

No hay nada que realmente nos prepare para la presencia de la malvada serpiente en el jardín.  La antigua palabra “Nahash” daba miedo a los corazones de los Israelitas por que ellos tenían prohibido atender a cualquier tipo de liturgia que involucrara adoración a la serpiente y con la pena de violar el pacto.  El mencionar una serpiente era como identificar algo malo en la mente de los piadosos Israelitas.  Las palabras Nahash y maligno eran sinónimos y la entrada de la serpiente en el jardín trajo la polución pecaminosa.

Esta lectura nos muestra como la serpiente estaba astutamente viboreando su modo de entrar en un territorio nuevo y muestra la existencia de las fuerzas del mal fuera de la esfera de la humanidad.  Vemos que Dios no nos atropella con la muerte y el castigo. De hecho, Dios se pone a Sí mismo de nuestro lado contra la batalla que se sostiene contra la serpiente.

El mensaje de esperanza en este pasaje es que Dios permanece al lado del hombre siempre.  El pecado, el mal y Satanás son siempre enemigos de Dios y del hombre.  Dios establece que Satanás será aplastado por nuestro Señor y Salvador Jesucristo.  Las buenas nuevas son que Jesús ha ganado la victoria de la vida eterna para nosotros.  El derrotó a Satanás en la cruz en el Calvario.  Estamos seguros de ello pues las escrituras nos dicen que así es (Juan 3:16).  Dios está con nosotros, a nuestro lado para salvarnos del pecado. Si Dios está con nosotros, ¿quién podrá estar en nuestra contra?  En el pasaje de hoy la promesa Mesiánica de la salvación última ha sido anunciada (Génesis 3:15).

 

EFESIOS 1:3-6, 11-12

Pablo escribió este pasaje desde las paredes de una prisión Romana.  El se había hecho Cristiano unos treinta años antes y había hecho tres viajes misioneros y establecido iglesias todo el derredor del Mar Mediterráneo.  Éfeso era un centro comercial, político y religioso por el Asia Menor.  El templo de la diosa pagana griega Diana estaba ahí.  Este es el ambiente en el que escuchamos acerca de bendiciones y el cielo.

¿Que es el cielo?  El cielo es donde Dios está y bendiciones significa todas las cosas buenas que Dios nos ha dado, como la salvación, los dones del Espíritu Santo y el poder de hacer la voluntad de Dios. Podemos gozar de esas bendiciones ahora si vivimos en una íntima relación con Jesucristo.

Pablo nos dice que Dios nos escogió para enfatizar que la salvación depende totalmente de Dios.  No somos salvados por que lo merecemos sino por que Dios es clemente y dala salvación libremente.  No hay modo de que nosotros nos adjudiquemos el crédito de haber ganado nuestra salvación o de encontrar en ello un orgullo.  Dios te escogió y cuando tú le perteneces por medio de Jesucristo, El te mira como si nunca hubieras pecado.  Dios nos ha adoptado como Sus propios hijos por medio del sacrificio de Jesucristo (Romanos 8:17).  Cuando sientas que tu vida no vale nada recuerda que eres especial a los ojos de Dios, un hermoso regalo que le da a El gran alegría.  Dios te ha ofrecido la salvación a ti y cuando tu vida parezca estar en caos, descansa en esta verdad: Jesús es el Señor y Dios tiene el control de todo.

 

LUCAS 1:26-38

En el antiguo testamento, Jerusalén era el centro y el símbolo de la unión de Dios con Su pueblo.  En el nuevo testamento el símbolo ya no es una ciudad, sino una persona y ésa es María, la Madre de Dios. Ella sella el principio del pacto con el regalo gratuito de si misma en el amor.

María era joven y pobre, todo esto era característico para la gente de su tiempo de alguien que no sería muy posible escoger para ser la Madre del tan esperado Mesías.  Pero Dios la escogió a ella para uno de los más importantes actos de obediencia que El pudiera pedir de alguien.

A lo mejor piensas que tu situación en la vida hoy en día no te hace buen candidato para estar al servicio de Dios.  No limites las posibilidades de Dios, El puede usarte si tú, como María, confías en El.  El honor de María de ser bendecida con ser la Madre de Dios le trajo mucho dolor y ridículo.  Sus amigas bien pudieron hablar mal de ella, su prometido estuvo a punto de dejarla, su Hijo iba a ser torturado y moriría en una cruz como si fuera un criminal convicto.  Pero por medio de ella su Hijo vendría al mundo como la única esperanza, y es por esto que María ha sido llamada por incontables generaciones “Bendita entre las mujeres.” Su sumisión nos llevó a nuestra salvación.

Si tus bendiciones te llevan a las penas, piensa en María y espera pacientemente a que Dios termine con el trabajo que tiene planeado.  Piensa en una pequeña jovencita que casi no entendía pero que confiaba mucho y que humildemente y también valerosamente dijo que ella era una humilde sierva del Señor, y que El podía hacer con ella lo que fuera de acuerdo con Su Santa Palabra (Lucas 1:38).

 

Aplicación

La primera lectura enseña que Dios está siempre al lado del hombre y que Satanás y el pecado son los enemigos.  La segunda lectura revela que una bendición es algo que Dios te ha dado: vida, salvación, familia, amigos, etc.  El Evangelio muestra que el valor se adquiere mediante la obediencia y la confianza.

Esta semana permítete a ti mismo, como María el sentir estar de acuerdo con la palabra de Dios. Toma un tiempo diario esta semana para orar a solas como hizo ella durante toda su vida, para estudiar la Santa Palabra de Dios y para hacer todo lo que sea necesario para ti en la escuela o en el trabajo.  Recuerda diariamente tomar un tiempo para relajarte y disfrutar por unos cuantos minutos.  Forma en ti la disciplina cada día de orar, estudiar, trabajar y descansar.  Dios te ha escogido y así como María, tú también puedes decir, “Si, Señor, haz conmigo lo que esté de acuerdo con tu santa palabra.”

4th Sunday of Advent (Dec 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 ISAIAH 7:10-14     FIRST READING

(“Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign.”)

1. To whom did the Lord speak and through whom did he speak? Isaiah 7:10 & Isaiah 7:3

 

2. Who is Ahaz?   Isaiah 7:1

 

3. For what was Ahaz to ask God?   Isaiah 7:11

 

4. What was Ahaz’s answer to this question?   Isaiah 7:12

 

5. What did Isaiah say to Ahaz?   Isaiah 7:13

 

6. What did the Lord give Ahaz?   Isaiah 7:14

 

7. What was the sign he gave him?   Isaiah 7:14

 

8. What did the Pharisees and teachers of the law say to Jesus, and what was his answer?   Matthew 12:38‑40

 

9. What was the sign given to the shepherds?   Luke 2:12, 16‑17

 

Personal – In what way have you wearied God by constantly looking for signs other than the virgin birth? How is Jesus your sign?

 

 

THIRD DAY     READ ROMANS 1:1‑7     SECOND READING

(“Through him we have been favored with apostleship.”)

1. Who was sending greetings and how does he refer to himself?   Romans 1:1

 

2. What is he called to be and for what is he set apart?    Romans 1:1

 

3. Where is recorded what he promised long ago through his prophets?  Romans 1:2

 

4. Whom is the Gospel concerning, from whom did he descend and how did he descend from him?   Romans 1:3

 

5. How was he made Son of God?   Romans 1:4

 

6. For what two reasons have you been called?   Romans 1:5

 

7. What are we to spread concerning his name?   Acts 4:12

 

8. To whom have we been called to belong?   Romans 1:6

 

9. To whom was Paul speaking?   Romans 1:7

 

10. To what did he say they had been called and what does he greet them with from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ?    Romans 1:7

 

Personal ‑ In what way do you see yourself called to spread the name of Jesus just as Paul was? How can you become an apostle for Jesus to your family and friends?

 

 

FOURTH DAY     READ MATTHEW 1:18‑24      GOSPEL

(“She is to have a son and you are to name him Jesus because he will save his people from their sins.”)

1. How did the birth of Jesus Christ come about? Matthew 1:18

 

2. Through the power of whom was Mary found to be with child?   Matthew 1:18

 

3. Who was Joseph and what kind of a man was he? Matthew 1:19

 

4. What was Joseph’s intention, how did the angel of the Lord appear to him, and what did he say to him?   Matthew 1:19-20

 

5. When was another time an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream, what did he tell him to do, and what was his response?    Matthew 2:13‑14

 

6. What did the angel say Mary would have, what was she to name him, and for what reason?   Matthew 1:21

 

7. Why did all this happen, who was the prophet, and what did he say?  Matthew 1:22, Isaiah 7:14

 

8. What does his name mean and what did Joseph do when he awoke?  Matthew 1:23-24, Isaiah 8:8, 10

 

9. As Joseph recognized God speaking to him through an angel, what did his obedience show?   John 14:21

 

10. What did he not do before Mary bore a son, and what did Joseph name the child?   Matthew 1:25

 

11. What do the following scriptures say about the name of Jesus? John 14:13 Acts 2:21 and 4:12  Philippians 2:9‑10

 

Personal ‑ When and where do you experience the presence of God the most in your life? What do you need to do to experience “Immanuel, God is with you” more completely in your life? How often do you think, feel, experience and call upon the name of Jesus in your everyday life?

 

 

FIFTH DAY      READ PSALM 24:1‑6

(“He shall receive a blessing from the Lord.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 24:1‑6.

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

ISAIAH 7:10-14

This passage shows us the incredible generosity of God in his urging Ahaz to ask him for a sign. This sign would show Ahaz that God wanted to protect him and crush his enemies. The King refused and appeared almost righteous by stating that he would not test God with a sign. The truth of the matter was that God had told him to ask but Ahaz was not really sure what God would say. Many of us use the same excuse, saying that we do not want to bother God with our puny problems. This keeps us from being realistic and communicating honestly with him.

We need to seriously remember and hold fast to the scripture in 1 Corinthians 2:9: “Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it so much as dawned on man what God has prepared for those who love him.” God loves us so much that he is constantly giving us signs of his presence and love. We need to reflect for a moment on how many times he has been present to us in the form of other people who are in our lives. God gave Ahaz and all of us the greatest sign of all time. He stated that a child shall be born to a virgin and she shall call him “Immanuel.” This means “God is with us” and he will always be with us even to the end of time (Matt. 28:20). This was a great prophecy of the Messiah.

Jewish people waited for over seven hundred years and when Christ was born in a lowly cave and took on the role of a helpless infant, the sign of all signs was ignored and missed by the non‑ believers. There are many people in the world today who are non‑ believers and who are looking for a sign. You are that sign, you are called to be that light. You are called to be an ambassador for God. They will know God is present by the sign of the way we love one another.

 

ROMANS 1:1‑7

This passage was written by Paul who had not yet been to Rome. It was unthinkable to hear a Roman citizen call himself a slave; and yet, that is what Paul called himself, a slave to Jesus Christ. Paul chose to be completely obedient and dependent on his beloved Jesus. We need to reflect on our own attitude toward Christ. Is Christ your Master? Are you dependent on and obedient to Jesus Christ? Paul tells about Jesus being part of the Jewish royal line and being born and then dying and rising from the dead. Paul believed totally that Jesus was the promised Messiah, and the resurrected Lord. Paul tells the Romans of his agreement with the teaching of all scripture and of the traditional oral teaching of the apostles. Paul really emphasizes that God’s grace is an undeserved privilege and that it is also accompanied by a responsibility to share God’s forgiveness with others. This is our responsibility, to witness to the world. God may never call you to witness overseas, but he is calling you to witness where you are now. Rome was the capital of the world. The city was wealthy, literary, and artistic. It was a cultural center but in terms of morality, it was dying. Many great cities in the world are facing that same fate today. Christianity was at odds with many elements in the Roman culture.

The Romans trusted in their military power to protect them against their enemies. Does this type of thinking sound familiar? Christians were being exhorted to hold fast to their views on morality. We might well look around our own society and see whether the traditional family values such as sanctity of life, marriage, and chastity are being threatened by a godless way of life. Paul showed his love toward the Roman church by expressing God’s love for them, and we need to do just that too. We need to reach out and affirm our church leaders and tell them that we love them and support them in this ministry. We need to witness to Jesus’ commandment to “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 13:34).

 

MATTHEW 1:18‑24

This passage addresses why a virgin birth is so important to the people of the Christian faith. Because Jesus was born of a woman, he was fully human. Also being the Son of God, he was both fully human and divine. We can relate totally with Jesus because he was human and he was like us and because he experienced every kind of temptation we experience today. In his whole life, Jesus never committed a sin. Because of this he understands our weakness and he offers us his forgiveness.

We can approach God with a reverence and yet boldness when we pray because we know that he truly understands our complete needs. We do not need to feel uncomfortable when we go before the Lord in prayer, as he loves us so much and he has been where we are now, and has the ability to help us. We need to understand the importance of the virgin birth in order to accept the situation that surrounded the birth of Jesus Christ. Mary was betrothed to Joseph when she became pregnant, and Joseph was confronted with only a few options to resolve the issue of his bride‑to‑be being pregnant, but not by him.

The Jewish marriage was the culmination of three stages. The first was when the couple became engaged, generally after their families agreed to their union. Later on, when a public announcement was made, the couple became “betrothed.” This was considered binding and broken only by divorce or death. There was no sexual relationship allowed however, until after the couple was married. The “betrothal” time was planning where to live, stocking the place with furniture, etc. Mary’s pregnancy displayed an apparent unfaithfulness that carried a severe social stigma. Joseph had a right according to Jewish law either to divorce her or to have her stoned in front of her father’s house (Deut. 22:23, 24). Joseph was told in a dream to follow God’s will and to take Mary for his wife. He was told by the Lord that Mary had conceived this child by the power of the Holy Spirit. Reflect for a moment how you would react to this type of a situation. Joseph chose to obey God’s command to marry her in spite of the obvious humiliation that they both experienced through the towns people. Joseph’s actions revealed several admirable qualities that the young men of today would do well to emulate. He displayed a stern principle, discretion and sensitivity. He was very responsive to God and displayed tremendous self‑discipline.

Joseph took God’s option and that was to marry Mary. God shows us that if we obey him, he will show us more options on how to live according to his will than we think possible. We must never forget that God took on the limitations of humanity so he could live and die for the salvation of all who believe in him.

 

Application

The first reading shows us that God wants us to communicate (prayer) with him so that he can shower us with his incredible generosity. The second reading tells us that obedience and dependency on Jesus Christ is the only way to freedom. The Gospel reveals that boldness and reverence are what he wants from us in prayer.

Get down on your knees and thank Christ for coming to earth so that he could die on the cross for your sins. Then ask him to take control of your life and ask the members of your family to join you as you fall on your knees and give him praise and adoration for coming to be with you. That is why they called him “Immanuel.”

3rd Sunday of Advent (Dec 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 ISAIAH 35:1‑6, 10     FIRST READING

(“They will meet with joy and gladness.”)

1. What will exult and bloom and for what reason? Isaiah 35:1-2

 

2. What is the response to seeing the glory of the Lord? Isaiah 35:2

 

3. What are we to do with hands that are feeble and knees that are weak? Isaiah 35:3

 

4. What are we to say to those whose hearts are frightened? Isaiah 35:4

 

5. Why should we not fear?  Is 35:4 41:10 and Zechariah 8:13

 

6. What will happen to the eyes of the blind and the ears of the deaf? Isaiah 35:5

 

7. What will happen to the lame and the tongue of the dumb? Isaiah 35:6

 

8. Who will return and what will they enter Zion doing? Isaiah 35:10

 

9. With what will they be crowned, and what will flee from them?  Isaiah 35:10

 

Personal ‑ In what way do those in your family, or your friends or co‑workers, see joy and rejoicing in your life? How can you, in a joyful way, show your appreciation for what God has done for you?

 

 

THIRD DAY     READ JAMES 5:7‑10    SECOND READING

(“Steady your hearts, because the coming of the Lord is at hand.”)

1. What must we be until the coming of the Lord?  James 5:7

 

2. What does the farmer do?   James 5:7

 

3. What must you do and for what reason?   James 5:8

 

4. What does 1 Corinthians 13:4 say about patience?

 

5. What must you not do and for what reason?   James 5:9

 

6. Who stands at the gate?   James 5:9

 

7. Who is the one to judge us?   1 Corinthians 4:5

 

8. For what has God set Jesus apart?   Acts 10:37‑42

 

9. Who are our models in suffering hardship?   James 5:10

 

10. In whose name did the prophets speak?   James 5:10

 

Personal ‑ In what way have you suffered hardship for speaking the name of Jesus? In what way have you been a model to your family, friends or work associates? How does patience fit into your life? Reflect on this.

 

 

FOURTH DAY     READ MATTHEW 11:2‑11    GOSPEL

(“The poor have the good news preached to them.”)

1. Where was John when he heard about the works Christ was performing and whom did he send to ask Jesus a question? Matthew 11:2

 

2. What was John’s message and why was he in prison? Matthew 3:1‑2 14:3‑4

 

3. What was the question John sent his disciples to ask Jesus? Matthew 11:3

 

4. What was Jesus’ reply, especially noting who has the good news preached to them? Matthew 11:4‑5

 

5. What two things did Jesus say to report to John and who is blest? Matthew 11:4, 6

 

6. To whom does the reign of God belong?   Luke 6:20

 

Personal ‑ In what way are you being blest by what you hear and see going on around you?

 

7. As the messengers went off, about whom did Jesus speak to the crowds, and what question did he ask them as to what they were looking for? Matthew 11:7‑9

 

8. As what did Jesus affirm John and what did scripture say about John? Matthew 11:9-10

 

9. What did Jesus say history has done?   Matthew 11:11

 

10. Whom does Jesus consider greater than John the Baptist? Matthew 11:11

 

Personal ‑ In what way has Jesus affirmed you by the actions you have taken in dealing with those around you?

 

 

FIFTH DAY      READ PSALM 146:6‑10

(“The Lord sets captives free.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 146:6-10.

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY      READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ISAIAH 35:1‑6, 10

Isaiah has delivered a message of judgment on all of the nations in almost all of the thirty‑four previous chapters. His message includes Judah and Israel consistently rejecting the God of Abraham, Jacob and Moses. There were times of relief and restoration in the history of the chosen people but these seemed to be only at the most crucial times. A small remnant of faithful believers prevailed during these times of God’s wrath and judgment.

We see in this passage Isaiah bringing to the people a vision of hope, beauty and encouragement. The people are shown a God of judgment, but also are shown a God of incredible mercy. We see a God that is perfect in his love and complete in his hatred of sin. God has shown his love for all of these he has created through his never ending mercy. Many have failed to respond to his love because of the temptations of the world. He has in his all encompassing love extended his full range of mercy on all who have repented and come back to him. We too enjoy the benefits of his mercy, and we too will be part of the final kingdom, which is described so beautifully in this passage.

This will be the kind of world you and I can look forward to after the judgment, when all of creation will rejoice in God. The talk and times of tribulation end with the beginning of this passage. Life after the final judgment will be peaceful and joyful because we will be “home” praising the living God forever and ever. Even now as we read this, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, is preparing a place for us (John 14:1‑6) and he is preparing the road for us. He will walk with us on this road “home”. This road will run from the desert of suffering to the blessings of eternal life. It can be traveled only while following God. Our Lord Jesus will never stop pointing the way for us. He is always beside us as we go. Let us follow that vision. Let our highway be holy. Let us all respond to God’s call and lead others on to God’s holy highway to heaven.

 

JAMES 5:7‑10

To understand this passage one has to realize that the early church lived in expectation of the immediate second coming of Jesus Christ. James is exhorting the people to be patient for the few short years that remain. He tells about the farmer who has to wait patiently for the early and late rains in order for his crops to mature. The farmer needs much patience to wait until nature does her work, and the Christian needs much patience in his life until Christ comes again. During this time between planting and harvesting, they must confirm their faith, by affirming and helping each other in all the circumstances. A farmer depended greatly on his neighbors to help him at harvest time and support was needed, not criticism.

Today we do not have as many farmers, but we still are busy planting the seeds of life. We too must be ready to help our neighbor, not only in times of harvest, but also in times of disaster. The early church was mistaken in thinking that Jesus would return within a generation, but the call to support and love one another is still a major part of the Christian walk. It is interesting to note that both the Christians and the farmers must live by faith. Many people blame others when things begin to go wrong in their life (Genesis 3:12, 13). Our reluctance to own up to our own share of responsibility causes many to strike out and blame others. This method is easier and more visible, but it is also destructive and sinful.

We need to reflect on what is being said in this passage and apply it to our own lives. What is being said is that before any of us judges others we should be very much aware that Christ, the ultimate judge, will come to evaluate us (Matthew 7:1‑5). Our patience needs to be in our ability to put the needs of others before our own. We also need to pray for courage; that will sustain us in the battle against sin. It is only as we go through the trials and sufferings that we gain the grace and courage of patience. History has shown us how much the prophets of the Old and New Testament have patiently suffered for the love of Jesus Christ. We who are called to the Christian walk can expect our cross of suffering which we in faith and patience will carry everywhere that the people cry out “I thirst.”

 

MATTHEW 11:2‑11

John the Baptist’s career had ended in shambles. He was now in prison, put there by King Herod. John never sought to soften the truth and was incapable of seeing evil without taking a stand against it. King Herod stole his brother’s wife and lived with her in sin. John spoke out fearlessly and Herod took his revenge. John reflected while in prison about whether Jesus really was the Messiah. John thought that his role was to be out preaching to the people and preparing them for Jesus. How could he do this while in jail? Sounds kind of familiar, doesn’t it?

Many times in our lives we think that we are being blocked from doing what we think is the best way to go. We may be stopped by poor health, old age or even lack of natural ability to do what we think the Lord is calling us to do. Jesus answered John’s doubts by telling him to look around and see what was being done in the community. The blind were able to see, the deaf able to hear. Lepers were being cured and people were being raised from the dead and preaching the good news. Jesus’ answer to John was the kingdom of God is at hand (Mark 1:15). Jesus’ identity was obvious to John when he heard the answer that Jesus sent him.

We too need to reflect on our own salvation and our own level of doubt. We need only to look at the evidence in scripture and the changes in our own life. We have seen how he has forgiven us of our sins and when we doubt, we do not need to turn from him. In fact, when we have feelings of doubt then we should turn completely to him. We need to observe John and see who and what he was. He was a man who lived in the desert and was very close to the earth. He had no fancy clothes and he ate no exotic food. Some of the people thought he was mad, yet they flocked to hear and see him. He spoke with authority and humility. He was abrasive to the lawless and in total submission to Christ. Today John’s style would probably be laughed out of town because his message was too simple and too clear. John’s basic message was “Repent, the kingdom of God is at hand” (Mark 1:15).

Many people today do not want to repent because “repent” means a complete change of life. We are all sinners (Romans 3:23) and we are all called to repent. Fall on your knees and be still and listen to our God (Psalm 46:10). Then ask him to create in you a new clean heart that is filled with clean thoughts and desires (Psalm 51:10). John’s message was “Good News” and that was that Jesus was the long awaited Messiah and he had come to begin God’s personal reign on earth. Jesus offered freedom to the poor, the oppressed, and the hopeless, and he does no less than that even today. So repent and be of good cheer, for the kingdom of God is surely at hand.

 

Application

The first reading shows a God that is just and merciful. The second reading tells us that patience is a godly virtue, and the Gospel reveals a call to repentance now!

This week, let your actions speak for themselves in your home, work, and school area. Patience and kindness are clear signs of love. To repent means to change. Start being humble and patient today. Let others be the first in line, the first to eat, the first to speak. Be the first to give and give freely. Your witness will be a tremendous sign that “the kingdom of God is at hand.”

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Dec 9th)

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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.

l. 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    GENESIS 3:9-15, 20    FIRST READING

(“He will strike at your head, while you strike at his heel.”)

l. Who called to the man, and what did He ask him? Genesis 3:9

 

2. Whom did Jesus come to call?   Mark 2:17

 

3. Why did the man hide himself?   Genesis 3:10

 

4. With what are we longing to be clothed? 2 Corinthians 5:1-3

 

5. What did God ask the man?   Genesis 3:11

 

6. What did the man say about the woman, and what did he do? Genesis 3:12

 

7. What did the Lord ask the woman, and who did she say tricked her?   Genesis 3:13

 

8. What was Paul’s fear that the serpent may corrupt in the people of Corinth?   2 Corinthians 11:3

 

Personal – When you lose the peace of God within you, whom do you blame? Who is responsible?

 

9. What did the Lord say to the serpent, what did he say he would put between the serpent and the woman, and at what would he strike?   Genesis 3:14-15

 

10. To what are we to be wise, and what will crush Satan under our feet?   Romans 16:19-20

 

11. What did the man call his wife, and for what reason? Genesis 3:20

 

Personal – In what way can you protect your mind and thoughts from the evil one?

 

 

THIRD DAY     READ EPHESIANS 1:3-6, 11-12    SECOND READING

(“…so that we might exist for the praise of his glory.”)

1. Who is blessed, and with what has he blessed us? Ephesians 1:3

 

2. What two things does the Father show toward us? 2 Corinthians 1:3

 

3. How did God choose us to be before him, and when did he choose us? Ephesians 1:4

 

4. How do you become holy and without blemish? Ephesians 5:25-27

 

5. How did God destine us for adoption, and with what was it in accord? Ephesians 1:4-5

 

6. To whom did he give power to become children of God? John 1:12

 

7. What are we to praise? Ephesians 1:6

 

8. How were we chosen, and how does God plan and guide all things? Ephesians 1:11

 

9. What happens to those who are called according to his purpose, and how are we predestined? Romans 8:28-29

 

10. For what purpose do we exist? Ephesians 1:12

 

Personal – When things work out for your good, to whom do you give the glory? In what way do your actions show that you have been chosen by God?

 

 

FOURTH DAY     READ LUKE 1:26-38     GOSPEL

(“May it be done to me according to your word.”)

1. Who was sent by God to a town of Galilee named Nazareth, and when was he sent?   Luke 1:26

 

2. To whom was he sent, and what was her name?   Luke 1:27

 

3. What did the angel say to Mary, and what was her reaction to this greeting?   Luke 1:28-29

 

4. What did the angel tell her not to do, and what did he say would happen to her?   Luke 1:30-33

 

5. What did Jesus say to his disciples, and what cast out fear?  Matthew 14:27, 1 John 4:18

 

6. What was Mary’s response to the angel telling her she would conceive and bear a son?   Luke 1:34

 

7. Who did the angel say would come upon Mary, who would over-shadow her, and what would the child be called?       Luke 1:35

 

8. What did the angel tell Joseph not to be, and how did he tell him the child was conceived in Mary?   Matthew 1:20

 

9. What did the angel tell Mary about Elizabeth, and what did he say about God?   Luke 1:36-37

 

10. What was Mary’s response, and what did the angel do? Luke 1:38

 

Personal – What specific plan does God have for your life? Have you responded as Mary did, “May it be done to me according to your word?” Think and pray about this.

 

 

FIFTH DAY     READ PSALM 98:1-4

(“The Lord has made his salvation known,”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 98:1-4.

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

GENESIS 3:9-15, 20

Nothing really prepares us for the presence of the devil serpent in the garden. The ancient word “Nahash” brought fear into the hearts of the Israelites because they were forbidden to attend any type of liturgy that involved snake worship upon pain of violating the covenant. The mention of a serpent would identify something evil in the minds of the pious Israelites. The word Nahash and evil were synonymous and the serpent’s entrance into the garden brought sinful pollution.

This reading shows us how the serpent was cleverly working his way into new territory, and it shows the existence of evil forces outside the sphere of mankind. We see that God does not crash-in at people with death and punishment. In fact, God places himself on the side of people in the ongoing battle against the serpent.

The message of hope in this passage is that God always remains on man’s side. Sin, evil, and Satan are always the enemy of God and man. God states that Satan will be crushed by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The good news is that Jesus has won for us the victory of eternal life. He defeated Satan on the cross at Calvary. We are assured of this because scripture tells us that it is so (John 3:16). God is with us, on our side, to save us from sin. If God is with us, who can be against us? In today’s passage the Messianic promise of ultimate salvation has been announced.

 

EPHESIANS 1:3-6, 11-12

Paul wrote this passage from inside the walls of a Roman prison. He had been a Christian for nearly thirty years, and he had taken three missionary trips and established churches all around the Mediterranean Sea. Ephesus was a commercial, political and religious center for all Asia Minor. The temple of the pagan Greek goddess Diana was located there. It is in this environment that we hear about blessings and heaven.

What is heaven? Heaven is where God is, and blessings mean all the good things that God has given to us, such as salvation, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and the power to do God’s will. We can enjoy these blessings now if we live in an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ.

Paul tells us that God chose us to emphasize that salvation depends totally on God. We are not saved because we deserve it, but because God is gracious and freely gives it. There is no way to take credit for our salvation, or to find room for pride. God chose us, and when we belong to him through Jesus Christ, we are transformed from sinner to a life of grace. God has adopted us as his own children through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ (Romans 8:17). When you feel that your life is not worth much to anyone, remember that you are special in God’s eyes, a precious present that brings him great joy. God has offered salvation to you, and when your life seems chaotic, rest in this truth: Jesus is Lord, and God is in control.

 

LUKE 1:26-38

In the old covenant, Jerusalem was the center and symbol of God’s union with his people. In the new covenant, the symbol is no longer a city, but a person, and she is Mary, the Mother of God. She seals the covenant’s beginning with the free gift of herself in love.

Mary was young and poor, all characteristics that, to the people of her day, would make her seem very unlikely to be chosen as the Mother of the long-awaited Messiah. But God chose her for one of the most important acts of obedience he has ever demanded of anyone.

You might feel that your situation in life today makes you an unlikely candidate for God’s service. Do not limit God’s choices, he can use you if you, like Mary, trust in him. Mary’s honor of being blessed to become the Mother of God brought her much pain and ridicule. Her peers would gossip about her; her fiance would come close to leaving her; her Son would be tortured and murdered on a cross as a convicted criminal. But through Mary, her Son would become the world’s only hope, and this is why Mary has been called by countless generations “Blessed among women.” Her submission led to our salvation.

If your blessings lead to sorrows, think of Mary, and wait patiently for God to finish working at his plan. Think of a small young teen-age girl who understood little and trusted much, and said humbly, and yet courageously, that she was a humble servant of the Lord, and he could do with her whatever was in accordance with his Holy Word (Luke 1:38).

 

Application

The first reading shows us that God is always on man’s side, and Satan and sin are always the enemy. The second reading reveals that a blessing is something that God has given you: life, salvation, family, friends, etc. The Gospel shows courage is made up of obedience and trust.

This week let yourself, like Mary, experience being in accordance with God’s word. Take time every day this week to pray alone as she did throughout her life, to study God’s Holy Word, and to do what is necessary in work and school for you. Remember each day to take time to relax and enjoy yourself for a few moments. Develop each day a discipline of prayer, study, work, and leisure. God has chosen you, and you, like Mary, can say, “Yes, Lord, do with me whatever is in accordance with your Holy Word.”

2nd Sunday of Advent (Dec 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 ISAIAH 11:1-10     FIRST READING

(“The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him.”)

1. What shall sprout from the stump of Jesse and of whom is Jesse the father? Isaiah 11:1, 1 Samuel 16:11-13

 

2. Who is the sprout? Luke 3:23-33

 

3. What shall rest upon him? Isaiah 11:2

 

4. Who baptized Jesus and what happened when he was baptized? Mark 1:9-11

 

5. What seven things did the Spirit give Jesus? Isaiah 11:2-3

 

6. How does he not judge? Isaiah 11:3

 

7. Whom does he judge, whom does he strike and how? Isaiah 11:4

 

8. What is the band around his waist and the belt upon his hips? Isaiah 11:5

 

9. What will then happen? Isaiah 11:6-9

 

10. On that day, of what will the earth be full? Isaiah 11:9

 

11. What is the root of Jesse set up as, who shall seek him out and why? Isaiah 11:10

 

Personal – In what way did you have the power of God’s Spirit rush on you as Jesus did when John baptized him. How old were you? Jesus was about 30 years old. Luke 3:23

 

 

THIRD DAY     READ ROMANS 15:4-9     SECOND READING

(“Welcome one another, then, as Christ welcomed you, for the glory of God.”)

1. Why was everything written before our time and what do we derive from this instruction? Romans 15:4

 

2. What do the words from the scriptures give us? Romans 15:4

 

3. By whom is Scripture inspired and for what is it useful? 2 Timothy 3:16

 

4. Of what is God the source and what does he enable us to do? Romans 15:5

 

5. What does this enable us to do with one heart and voice? Romans 15:6

 

Personal – In what way are you learning patience from God’s Word?

 

6. What are we to do with one another; why and for what reason? Romans 15:7

 

Personal – In what way have you accepted those in your family, at work, etc. right where they are? In what way have you been encouraging them in their walk? How have you recognized God’s patience toward you?

 

7. Why did Christ become a minister of the circumcised? Romans 15:8

 

8. Why do the Gentiles glorify God? Romans 15:9

 

9. What two things does scripture say we shall do? Romans 15:9

 

 

FOURTH DAY     READ MATTHEW 3:1-12     GOSPEL

(“He it is who will baptize you in the Holy Spirit and fire.”)

1. Who made his appearance in the desert of Judea, what was he doing and what was his theme? Matthew 3:1-2

 

2. Who spoke the same message as John? Matthew 4:17

 

3. When Jesus sent the 12 apostles out for the lost sheep of Israel, what did he tell them to announce? Matthew 10:7

 

4. How was John dressed and who was going out to him? Matthew 3:4-5

 

5. What were they doing as they were being baptized by John and to what does repentance lead? Matthew 3:6, Mark 1:4

 

6. What did John say to the Pharisees and Sadducees who were stepping forward for the baptism, what did he ask them to do, and on what did he tell them not to pride themselves? Matthew 3:7-9

 

Personal – What evidence can you produce that shows you have repented of the sin of unbelief?

 

7. What would be the reason for cutting down a tree? Matthew 3:10

 

Personal – What kind of fruit are you producing? Ask family, friends or co-workers to evaluate you and have them tell you what kind of fruit they see coming from you.

 

8. Why does John baptize in water and how does he see himself next to the one who will follow him? Matthew 3:11

 

9. Who is the one to whom John is referring and how will he baptize us? John 1:14-17, Matthew 3:11

 

10. What is in his hand and what will he do with it? What will he gather and what will he burn? Matthew 3:12

 

11. Who are the ones he will gather and who are the ones who will go into the unquenchable fire? Matthew 12:31-37, Jeremiah 15:7

 

Personal – Evaluate yourself before you began reading God’s Word and now. What changes do you see in yourself?

 

 

FIFTH DAY     READ PSALM 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17

(“In him all the tribes of the earth shall be blessed.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17

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 11:1-10

This passage tells us about a new shoot that would grow from the stump of the tree called the royal line of David. The new shoot would be called the Messiah and he would be greater than the original tree (David) and would bear much fruit. This coming Messiah, the perfect king, perfect priest and spiritual king would come from David’s line to reign over Israel. He was given the name of “The Lord of Righteousness” (Jeremiah 23:6).

All of us long for fair treatment from others but sadly all of us do not give that fair treatment to others. We hate those who base their judgments on the way people look, talk or even by the color of their skin. We see or read about people being judged on false evidence or hearsay and we hate it. Yet, many times, we ourselves are quick to judge others using those same standards. Christ is the only one who is clothed in truth. He is the only one who is not prejudiced. Jesus is the only one who can be a perfectly fair judge. We need to give our hearts to him completely. Only then can we learn to be as truthful and fair to others as we would want them to be to us.

Today the need to be truthful is needed more than at any other time in history because we are surrounded by so much distortion and outright lies. Satan is the father of lies and he lies to us in his presentation of pornography, drugs, homosexuality and abortion. Peace in the Lord Jesus Christ is the only answer to deceit and conflict, whether it be in a family or a nation. The passage goes on to show wild animals living at peace with one another. Even more incredible is for hostile people to live at peace with one another.

Only in Jesus Christ can hostilities be laid to rest as true love prevails; this is the peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). A golden age was predicted in this passage and it still is to come today and it will when Jesus Christ reigns over the entire earth. We can, until that time, carry out our commission and live to bring others to Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior (Matthew 28:19).

 

ROMANS 15:4-9

The deeper the hunger and thirst is to know God’s Word in scripture, the more our attitude towards the past, present and future will be affected. Scripture has shown over and over that God has continually kept his promise of salvation to those who believe in him. The more we know of scripture, the more we know about what God has done for us. This leads to a greater confidence in what he will do for us in the days ahead.

Our daily study of the holy scripture followed by prayerful reflection and action will increase our trust that God’s will is the best choice for us. We are being called to accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior and this means being in harmony with his teachings and sharing his values and perspectives. We cannot hope to live in harmony with others until we first learn patience, steadiness, and encouragement from Jesus.

We can be in harmony with others only when we have the attitude of Christ (Philippians 2:2-11). We need to develop an attitude of love toward other Christians as well. As we become more capable of maintaining this attitude of love for people of all cultures throughout each day, we will learn how to live in harmony with each other. To live in harmony means to love and respect each other regardless of creed, race or color and regardless of being rich or poor, young or old, sickly or well.

We are called to welcome each other warmly into the church. This means we are to love one another as he has loved us (John 15:12). We are called to affirm each other, and forgive one another. We are called to repent of our sinful actions towards God and man (Mark 1:15). Repentance means to change our lives completely. We are called to make our beloved church not only a haven for saints but a hospital for sinners. Jesus said to us on the cross, “I thirst” (John 19:28) and we are called to satisfy that thirst by loving one another and living in harmony with all of God’s creation.

 

MATTHEW 3:1-12

John came onto the scene like the thundering voice of Almighty God. He courageously spoke out against wrongdoing wherever he saw it. He spoke out against the evil doings of King Herod, living with his brother’s wife and against the ritualistic formalism of the self-righteous Sadducees and Pharisees. John spoke out against evil in the state, in the church and in the crowd on the streets. John not only denounced men for the evil they had done, but challenged them to be what could be in accordance with the moral standards of God. Many thought John the Baptist was in reality Elijah who had returned to herald the coming of the Messiah (King) (Malachi 4:5). John was preparing the way for the King. The preacher, the teacher with the booming prophetic voice, points not at himself, but at God.

John was recognized as a prophet, because he had in him that special authority which clings to the man who comes into the presence of men out of the presence of God. John strongly warns the people that being just the descendants of Abraham does not guarantee their entrance into heaven. To the Israelite, this was an incredible statement because Abraham was unique in his goodness and in his favor with God. John was warning the people that they could not live on the spiritual deeds of the past. He told them that a degenerate age cannot hope to claim salvation for the sake of a heroic past. An evil son cannot hope to plead on the merits of a righteous Father.

We need to reflect on John’s presence and his message of warning to our own society. Do we as a people live in obedience to the teachings of Jesus Christ? Do we love one another as he loved us (John 15:12)? Do we practice in our daily living the message that we preach in our churches? Do we expect to be saved because we belong to a certain type of denomination? Do we really believe that Jesus Christ is the only bridge to salvation? The silence of God’s voice in today’s world of violence, pornography, abortion and drugs is deafening.

The message of John, calling out to the people to make way and prepare themselves for the coming of the Lord, is no less urgent today. John’s promise to the people that the baptism of the Holy Spirit would fill them with the fire of love and power was like a measure of cool water given to a man thirsting in the desert (Isaiah 44:3). The Spirit of God is the Spirit of Power. When the Spirit of God enters into a man, his weakness is clothed with the power of God. His tired, lack-lustre, appearance of defeat of life is gone, and a new surge of life enters him. Do you really believe this?

 

Application

The first reading tells us only the truth can set us free and the truth is Jesus (John 8:32). The second reading reveals scripture has shown over and over that God has kept his promise of salvation to those who believe in him. The Gospel tells us to prepare ourselves, for the kingdom of God is at hand.

This week, let us practice what we preach by keeping a list of the things that we have done throughout the day. Then at evening time, reflect on how close your actions match your words. Try this for one week and get ready for a miracle.