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Fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time (Feb 9th) – Cycle A

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THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

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

FIRST DAY     Reread last week’s readings.

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

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY     READ ISAIAH 58:7-10     FIRST READING

(“Then light shall rise for you in the darkness.”)

1. With whom do we share our bread, and how do we help the homeless? Isaiah 58:7

 

2. Whom do we clothe when we see them and on whom are we not to turn our back? Isaiah 58:7

 

Personal- In your enthusiasm to obey God and feed the hungry, clothe the naked, etc., have you ever neglected those in your home, your spouse, your children, your relatives, your close friends, your neighbors or those with whom you work? Reread verse 7 again.

 

3. What shall happen to us if we do these things? Isaiah 58:8, Ezekiel 18:7, 9

 

4. What shall happen to our wound, and what shall go before us? Isaiah 58:8

 

5. What shall be our rear guard and what will happen when we call the Lord? Isaiah 58:8-9

 

6. When we cry for help, what will he say? Isaiah 58:9

 

7. What three things must we remove from our midst? Isaiah 58:9

 

8. What does God’s Word tell us about the following?

OPPRESSION (Psalm 119:134 Proverbs 21:7 Ecclesiastes 7:7 Sirach 10:7 Isaiah 33:15-16 Ezekiel 45:9)

 

MALICIOUS SPEECH (Proverbs 2:12 Proverbs 4:24 Sirach 27:6 Matthew 22:15 John 8:43-44)

 

ACCUSATIONS (Prov. 10:18 Mark 15:3-5)

 

9. If we bestow our bread on the hungry and satisfy the afflicted, what will rise for us in the darkness, and what will happen to the gloom? Isaiah 58:10

 

10. How do we satisfy the afflicted? Luke 9:1-6

 

Personal- How have you removed oppression, false accusations, and malicious speech from your midst? In what way have you fed the hungry, given shelter to the homeless, or clothed the naked this past week? How have you been able to do this without neglecting your family?

 

THIRD DAY     READ CORINTHIANS 2:1-5     SECOND READING

(“Your faith rest not on the wisdom of men but on the power of God.”)

1. Who was speaking and to whom was he speaking in 1 Cor. 2:1? 1 Corinthians 1:1

 

2. What did he come proclaiming? 1 Corinthians 2:1

 

3. What was God’s testimony? 1 Corinthians 2:2, 1 John 5:6-12

 

4. Did Paul speak of anything else besides Jesus crucified? 1 Corinthians 2:2

 

5. How did Paul come among them? 1 Corinthians 2:3

 

6. Who helps us in our weakness? Romans 8:26

Personal- Have you ever experienced this weakness and fear that Paul did among people? Have you ever experienced this in your own home, around your relatives, friends, etc.? Spend an extra ve minutes a day, this week, alone with the Lord dwelling on the presence of his Holy Spirit within you.

 

7. What did the Lord tell Paul about his weakness? 2 Corinthians 12:9

 

8. Compare weakness with the power of God using Paul’s statements in 2 Corinthians 13:3-9.

 

9. What two things have none of the persuasive force of “wise” argumentation, but had the convincing power of the Spirit? 1 Corinthians 2:4

 

10. God sends messages to us in many ways. Read the following, and see if you can pick out who was being used as a messenger.
Genesis 16:7-12

Genesis 21:17

Malachi 2:7

Matthew 11:10, 11

Acts 10:3

 

Personal- Have you been able to recognize God’s messages to you? Meditate on the way God speaks to you directly and through others and whether or not you are really listening. Share with someone.

 

 

FOURTH DAY     READ MATTHEW 5:13-16     GOSPEL

(“You are the light of the world.”)

1. Who is the salt of the earth? What do you do with salt if it goes flat, and can you restore its flavor? Matt 5:13; Luke 14:34-35

 

2. Read the following and tell how salt was used.

Leviticus 2:13

Mark 9:49-50

Colossians 4:6

 

Personal- The partaking in common of salt by those seated together at table was an ancient symbol of friendship and alliance. When you are seated at your table and pass the salt, is it always in friendship or is your salt beginning to go flat in your home or at your table? Is the seasoning coming from you that of love and friendship? Reflect on this. Ask the Lord to season you with his love.

 

3. Who is the light of the world, and what cannot be hidden? Matthew 5:14

 

4. What do we NOT do with a lamp we light, and what do we DO with it? Matthew 5:15

 

5. In what way must our light shine before men, and what will they see in us? Matthew 5:16

 

6. What did Jesus say about being good, and whom do we praise for his goodness? Luke 18:19, Tobit 13:10

 

7. Who is good? Psalm 25:8

 

8. Where does a man produce good? Matt 12:34-35, Luke 6:45

 

9. With what are we to be filled? Romans 15:14

 

10. What will people do when they see goodness in the acts we perform? Matthew 5:16

 

11. What does God’s Word say about giving praise to our Father, and who were the people involved?

Exodus 15:1, 2                                                     Mark 2:12

2 Samuel 22:50, 51                                            Luke 4:14-15

Ezra 10:10, 11                                                      Acts 3:9

Daniel 2:19, 23                                                    Acts 13:46-48

Daniel 4:34                                                          Hebrews 13:12-15

Matthew 11:25                                                    Rev 4:8-11

 

Personal- How do you take the time each day to praise God for what he is doing in your life? Take time to praise him for giving you a new life in him, for his promises to you in his word, for your faith, for direction and guidance. Praise him for his goodness that is becoming visible to others in your actions as you yield to his Holy Spirit.

 

 

FIFTH DAY     READ PSALM 2:4-9

(“The Lord dawns through the darkness, light for the upright.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 112:4-9.
What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY     READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ISAIAH 58:7-10

Faith is a living response to the presence and power of God in our lives. Faith without good works is dead and useless (James 2:17). We are being told in today’s reading that we cannot be saved by works, no matter how good they may be, without faith in God. We are also told that fasting can be very beneficial, both physically and spiritually, but at best the only one who benefits is you. Our response to the presence of God in our lives is what produces really effective good works. Our response to the presence of God and his power affects others, and that is what God wants from us. He wants us to make a difference in the lives of the hungry, the oppressed, the homeless, and to protect the lives of the unborn.

We do not do good things to become good; we do good things because of the goodness that is within all men of faith. That goodness is the presence and power of God, whom we know as the Holy Spirit. Our response in faith unleashes the power of God to heal a sick and wounded world. Pleasing God is not done by what we eat or do not eat; rather it is by bringing charity, justice, and generosity to the downtrodden.

We glorify God most when we can help his broken, bruised, abandoned, hungry, homeless, and aborted children into healthy loved human beings. Faith is our response to God’s presence and power in our own life, and we find this revealed to us in his Holy Word and the teachings of his beloved church. He is the water that prevents men from dying of thirst.

 

1 CORINTHIANS 2:1-5

It is very important that we realize that Paul, was a brilliant scholar. He once used his verbal skills very well in convicting many Christians of being heretics. Paul explains very clearly in today’s reading that he speaks only of the crucified Christ. We can do today what Paul was doing then, and that is keeping our Gospel message simple and basic. Our power is in the Holy Spirit, not in any gift of public speaking.

Paul is saying that while study and preparation for proclaiming God’s Word are necessary, preparation must be tied into and be dependent on the Holy Spirit. Paul’s own background of scripture study and preparation for preaching allowed him to lean entirely on God and still be responsive to the needs of the believers. Paul goes to great lengths to tell us that his preaching is very plain, and that Jesus is much more comfortable in the house of a plain and simple person than living in luxury with one who is proclaiming God’s law and exacting its complete obedience from the people. We need to reflect on how we come across to other people when we are professing our faith. Do people see in us a weakness and trembling that is overcome because of our own personal love of Jesus? Jesus tells us that his grace is enough for us; we do not have to worry about our credentials.

God calls us to be faithful, not successful. People who are hurting will respond to a message of hope, love, and forgiveness that is immersed in the convicting power of the Holy Spirit. We are God’s messengers today, and we are called to respond to him. Today’s reading clearly tells us that we do not have to depend on our talents to proclaim the Gospel message. What we do need is to proclaim that Jesus is Lord and, like Paul, preach only the crucified Christ. Repentance is still man’s best bet to live an abundant life (John 10:10).

 

MATTHEW 5:13-16

Matthew is so down to earth in this particular writing. Most of us have experienced, at one time or another, the addition of salt on a delicious salad or even on a sizzling piece of meat. Paul shows us that, like salt, Christians are called to be of a special flavor. Old salt that loses its flavor is thrown out. Salt is not called to blend in, but to be distinctive in flavor. As Christians, we are not called to blend into the rest of the world; we are called to be distinctively different.

We are worthless if people cannot see a difference in the way we live our lives. Seasoning is made to bring out the best in foods, and Christians are called to bring out the best in people. We need only to picture a great city on a hill where we can see the lights ahead for many miles. When we are living by faith and not by sight, our lives glow like tremendous lights to others. That light that is shining in a Christian is the light of Jesus Christ. That is the light that led men out of the darkness of sin.

We are the only ones who can dim that light, and many of us do it by being quiet when we should speak out, as in the abortion issue. Another way is going along with the crowd. Then there is sin that dims our light tremendously. Many of us let our light grow dim because we do not share our light with others. We are called by our very faith in God, to be a beacon of truth and to let our light shine forth in this darkened world of pain and sin.

Jesus tells us to be a favorable difference in our community and to let his Light shine in us. He is the light that guides the prostitute, the alcoholic, the drug addict, the adulterer, the thief, the liar, and all those who stagger around in the darkness of despair, out of the darkness. He welcomes and leads them back home to his church of love and forgiveness.

 

Application

In the first reading we see that faith is the living response to the power and presence of God in our lives. The second reading shows us that salvation is available to all, even the most ordinary of men. The Gospel calls us to be a light that leads people out of the darkness of sin.

This week, let us respond to God’s call and be a light to our family and friends by showing them the way to Jesus! Try to attend daily Mass and read scripture every day this week. Spend a certain amount of time each day in prayer. Spend some time with each family member and try to do something positive for him/her. You can be the flavor and light if you just respond to God’s power within you.

Lectio Divina – Fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time (Feb 9th) – Cycle A

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

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

OPEN WITH THE FOLLOWING PRAYER:

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

READ, REFLECT AND WRITE

Matthew 5:13-16 – Jesus said to His disciples: “You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.”

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

 

Tercer Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario (26 de Enero) – Ciclo A

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El Pan de Vida Estudio de Biblia Católico

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

ANTES DE COMENZAR:

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

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

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

 

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

 

 

SEGUNDO DIA     ISAIAS 8:23-9:3     PRIMERA LECTURA

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

1. ¿Cuáles tierras ha degradado Dios? Isaías 8:23

Ve si puedes localizar estas tierras en el mapa de la Biblia

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Isaías 58:10
Juan 8:12
Hechos 26:18 Romanos 13:12-14

 

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

 

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

 

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

David (Salmo 16:7-11)

María (Lucas 1:46-47)

Juan Bautista (Juan 3:29-30)

Pablo (Filipenses 1:18)

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

1 Corintios 5:4

Filipenses 2:2-4

Colosenses 2:2

 

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

 

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

Juan 1:36, 41

Juan 1:42

Hechos 18:24-25

1 Corintios 1:1

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

CUARTO DIA     MATEO 4:12-23     EVANGELIO

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

 

¿Cómo puedes aplicar esto a tu vida diaria?

 

SEXTO DIA      LEE TODO EL COMENTARIO

ISAIAS 8:23 – 9:3

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

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

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

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

 

1 CORINTIOS 1:10-13, 17

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

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

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

 

MATEO 4:12-23

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

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

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

 

Aplicación

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

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

Lectio Divina – Third Sunday of Ordinary Time (Jan 26th) – Cycle A

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

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

OPEN WITH THE FOLLOWING PRAYER:

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

READ, REFLECT AND WRITE

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

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

 

Third Sunday of Ordinary Time (Jan 26th) – Cycle A

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THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

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

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

FIRST DAY     Reread last week’s readings.

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

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY     READ ISAIAH 8:23‑9:3    FIRST READING

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

1. What lands has he degraded?  Isaiah 8:23

See if you can locate this on your bible map.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Isaiah 58:10

John 8:12

Acts 26:18

Romans 13:12‑14

 

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

 

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

 

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

David (Psalm 16:7‑11)

Mary (Luke 1:46-47)

John the Baptist (John 3:29‑30)

Paul (Philippians 1:18)

 

8. What had burdened them?   Isaiah 9:3

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

1 Corinthians 5:4

Philippians 2:2‑4

Colossians 2:2

 

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

 

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

John 1:36, 41

John 1:42

Acts 18:24‑25

1 Corinthians 1:1

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

FOURTH DAY     READ MATTHEW 4:12‑23    GOSPEL

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

He _________________ them, and ______________ they abandoned their boat and _______________ to _________________ him.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY    READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ISAIAH 8:23‑9:3 

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

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

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

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

1 CORINTHIANS 1:10‑13, 17

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

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

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

 

MATTHEW 4:12‑23

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

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

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

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

 

Application

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

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

Lectio Divina – Second Sunday of Ordinary Time (Jan 19th) – Cycle A

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

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

OPEN WITH THE FOLLOWING PRAYER:

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

READ, REFLECT AND WRITE

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

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?

 

 

Segundo Domingo del Tiempo Ordinario (19 de Enero) – Ciclo A

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El Pan de Vida Estudio de Biblia Católico

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

ANTES DE COMENZAR:

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

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

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

 

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

 

 

SEGUNDO DIA     ISAIAS 62:1-5     PRIMERA LECTURA

(“Te llamarán Me gusta,”)

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

TERCER DIA     1 CORINTIOS 12:4-11     SEGUNDA LECTURA

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

CUARTO DIA      JUAN 2:1-12      EVANGELIO

(“Hagan todo lo que El les mande.)

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

QUINTO DIA     LEE SALMO 96:1-3, 7-10

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

Leé y medita el Salmo 96:1-3, 7-10.

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

 

¿Cómo puedes aplicar esto a tu vida diaria?

 

 

SEXTO DIA     LEE TODO EL COMENTARIO

ISAIAS 62:1-5

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

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

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

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

 

1 CORINTIOS 12:4-11

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

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

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

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

 

JUAN 2:1-12

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

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

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

 

Aplicación

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

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

Second Sunday of Ordinary Time (Jan 19th) – 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 49:3, 5‑6    FIRST READING

(“My God is now my strength.”)

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

 

2. Who is being referred to as “Israel” in the following scriptures? Genesis 35:9‑11, Exodus 4:21‑22, Exodus 5:1

 

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

 

3. Who has spoken?   Isaiah 49:5

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

4. Where was “the church of God” located in this particular greeting by Paul and Sosthenes? 1 Corinthians 1:2

See whether you can locate this on your bible map.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

FOURTH DAY     READ JOHN 1:29‑34    GOSPEL

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY      READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ISAIAH 49:3, 5‑6

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

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

 

1 CORINTHIANS 1:1‑3

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

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

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

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

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

 

JOHN 1:29‑34

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

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

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

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

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

 

Application

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

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

Lectio Divina – Feast of the Baptism of the Lord (Jan 12th) – 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 3:13- 17 – Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. John tried to prevent him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and yet you are coming to me?” Jesus said to him in reply, “Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed him. After Jesus was baptized, he came up from the water and behold, the heavens were opened for him, and he saw the Spirit of God ascending like a dove and coming upon him. And a voice came from the heavens, saying, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”

What is the Lord personally saying to you?

 

 

 

What does the Lord personally want you to do?