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 ACTS 5:27-32, 40-41 FIRST READING

(“We must obey God rather than men.”)

1. Who was brought in and made to stand before the Sanhedrin? Who questioned them? Acts 5:17-18, 27

 

2. What strict orders were the apostles given, and with what did they fill Jerusalem? Acts 5:28

 

3. Whose name were they told not to speak about and what did Peter and John say was impossible? Acts 4:18-20

 

4. What did Peter and the apostles say? Acts 5:29

 

5. Who raised Jesus, and what did the apostles say they did to him? Acts 5:30

 

6. Why did God exalt Jesus at his right hand as leader and Savior? Acts 5:31

 

7. What do you receive when you repent?  Acts 2:38

 

8. Who is given the Holy Spirit? Acts 5:32

 

9. What happened to the apostles, and what were they told? Acts 5:40

 

10. How did the apostles leave the Sanhedrin, and for what reason did they leave that way? Acts 5:41

 

Personal – In what way have you gone against the authorities in order to obey God rather than men? In what way have you spoken in the name of Jesus to your family, friends, co-workers, or classmates?

 

 

THIRD DAY READ REVELATION 5:11-14 SECOND READING

(“Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches,…”)

1. Who looked again and what did he hear and see? Revelation 1:1-2, Revelation 5:11

 

2. As the angels cried out in a loud voice, who did they say was worthy and what did he receive? Revelation 5:12

 

3. What did John the Baptist call Jesus? John 1:29

 

4. How can we receive power and riches? Acts 1:8, Matthew 6:33

 

5. How do we receive wisdom and strength? James 1:5, Philippians 4:13

 

6. Who is not worthy of Jesus? Matthew 10:37-38

 

7. Who was heard crying out, and from where?  Revelation 5:13

 

8. Whose knee should bend at the name of Jesus? Philippians 2:10

 

9. Who should receive blessing, honor, glory, and might forever and ever? Revelation 5:13

 

10. What did the four living creatures answer, and what did the elders do? Revelation 5:14

 

Personal – What has made you worthy to bear the name Christian? How do you find your self-worth?  Revelation 5:12 and meditate on it.

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ JOHN 21:1-19 GOSPEL

(“Simon, son of John, do you love me?”)

1. To whom did Jesus reveal himself, and what were they doing? John 21:1-3

 

2. What time of day was Jesus standing on the shore and what did the disciples not realize? John 21:4

 

3. What did Jesus call the disciples, what did he say to them, and what was their reply? John 21:5

 

4. What did Jesus tell them, what happened as a result of their doing what he asked, and who recognized the Lord? John 21:6-7

 

Personal – What has God asked of you, and what has been the result?

 

5. What did the disciples see on shore, what did Jesus say to them, and what did Simon Peter do?  John 21:8-11

 

6. What did Jesus say to them, what did the disciples not dare to ask, what did Jesus do, and how many times was this that Jesus revealed himself to them since his resurrection? John 21:12-14

 

7. When they had finished breakfast, what did Jesus ask Simon Peter, what was his response, and what did Jesus tell him to do? John 21:15

 

8. What was Peter’s response the second and third time Jesus asked him if he loved him, and what did he tell him to do? John 21:16-17

 

9. What did Jesus say would happen to Peter and what did this signify?  John 21:18-19

 

10. What did Jesus tell Peter to do? John 21:19

 

11. Why should you follow in Jesus’ footsteps? 1 Peter 2:21

 

Personal – What have you done to show your love for Jesus? Who in your family, friends, work associates, or schoolmates have been fed by you this week?

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 30:2, 4-6, 11-13

(“I will extol you, O Lord, for you drew me clear.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 30:2, 4-6, 11-13.

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

ACTS 5:27-32, 40-41

We see in today’s reading God’s power working through a group of men. We might do well to ask ourselves what would we do if we were threatened by powerful leaders and faced imprisonment for talking about God.  These men were beaten, arrested, and jailed and still went back to preaching God’s Holy Word when they were released.

When we are convinced of the power of Christ’s resurrection and have experienced the presence of his Holy Spirit, then we too will have the confidence to speak out for Christ.

The temple was a very busy place and many people stopped there to pray and worship at sunrise. These were the people the apostles met with the “Good News.” Today in our own marketplaces there is a tendency to keep our religion a private affair between us and our God. It is very difficult to see Christian people turn their eyes away from acts of wrongdoing because they “do not want to get involved.” Today we are experiencing a great amount of evil that is allowed to continue because the fear of man is greater than the fear of the Lord.

The apostles knew that the penalty for speaking out in the name of Jesus could mean death for them. The apostles knew their priorities. We should always try to keep peace with everyone (Romans 12:18), but conflict with the world and its authorities is sometimes inevitable for a Christian (John 15:18). There will be situations where you cannot obey both God and man, such as accepting the practice of abortion. Then you must obey God and trust in his word and not in man’s word or law.

Jesus himself encourages us to follow him in his own words: What happiness it is when others hate you and exclude you and insult you and smear your name because you are mine!  When that happens, rejoice!   Yes, leap for joy! For you will have a great reward awaiting you in heaven (Luke 6:22-23).  We are called to live as Christ has asked, sharing our faith no matter what the cost. We may not be beaten or thrown into jail, but we may be ridiculed, ostracized, or slandered.

To what extent are you willing to suffer for the sake of sharing the Gospel with others?

 

REVELATION 5:11-14

As Catholic Christians, we have been taught that angels are spiritual beings created by God, who help carry out his work on earth. In some instances they are messengers (Luke 1:26) and in others, they protect God’s people (Daniel 6:23). The angels offer encouragement (Genesis 16:7), and give guidance (Exodus 14:9). There are both good and evil angels (Revelation 12:7-9), but because the evil angels follow Satan and not God, they have much less power and authority. The main role of the good angels is to offer continuous praise to God.

Today’s reading shows us that only the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, is worthy to open the scroll. The scroll signifies for us the events of history and it is Jesus Christ who holds it, not Satan. Jesus Christ is Lord, and he alone is worthy to set into motion the events of the last days of history. Jesus Christ is pictured as a lamb which symbolizes his humble submission to God’s will. It is the lamb that becomes the focus in John’s vision. Christ, the Lamb, was the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all mankind. He alone is the only one who can save us from the terrible events revealed by the scroll.

Jesus is also pictured as a lion symbolizing his authority and power (Revelation 5:5). Christ the Lamb won the greatest battle of all, defeating all the evil forces and death, by submitting humbly to God’s will and dying on the cross. Christ the Lion is victorious because of what Christ the Lamb has already done.

We will enjoy the rewards of victory not because of our power and might, but through our humble submission to God. John, through his images of God, has shown us that it is in the act of humbly submitting our lives to God that we receive the power of God’s Holy Spirit to do it. We must never forget that anyone who comes in repentance and faith is accepted by God and will be part of his kingdom. Wherever you go, let people see the fruit of humility shine in you and people will see in you, very clearly, the Lamb of God (John 1:29).

 

JOHN 21:1-19

In today’s Gospel Jesus commissions Peter to feed his flock. Jesus appears to the disciples while they are fishing and calls out to them. It is important to remember that these men were tremendously disappointed in the way events had turned out.  They had followed a loving Messiah who promised eternal life and now was gone. They decided to go back to doing what they originally did before they heard of Jesus Christ, and that was fishing. It seemed almost comical to recall Jesus’ words, “I will make you fishers of men.”

When Jesus called out to them and asked if they had caught any fish yet, they said no, and Jesus proceeded to tell these professional fishermen how to fish. These words must have struck them with tremendous force. The thoughts that must have been racing through the minds of these men in the boat must have been awesome and even fearful. They had seen him, they knew him to be dead, and there had been those appearances in the Upper Room; but then he disappeared. They obeyed his command and the result was incredible.  John, trying desperately to keep his emotions under control, said to Peter that it must be the Lord on the shore giving the advice.

Peter explodes and jumps into the water to swim, crawl, run, anything to get to Jesus as soon as he can. John knew it was Jesus because he saw him do a similar miracle on Lake Genneserat (Luke 5:1-11). There on the beach, the apostles experience Jesus cooking for them and eating with them.

Jesus leads Peter through the tremendous healing experience that removed the cloud of his denial.  Peter denied Jesus three times, and three times Jesus asked Peter if he loved him. When Peter answered yes, Jesus told him to feed his sheep.  You need to remember it is one thing to say that you love Jesus, but the real test is your willingness to serve him.  Peter had repented and now Jesus asked him to commit his life. Peter’s life changed when he finally realized who Jesus was. Peter had faced his true feelings when confronted by Jesus, and we have to confront our true feelings too.

How would you respond today if Jesus asked you, “Do you love me, do you really love me?”

 

Application

The first reading shows that we must obey God rather than man. The second reading reveals worthy is the lamb that was slain for us. The Gospel shows love is a decision, not a sentimental expression.

This week, show those around you that you are in obedience to God’s law by your actions, your words, and even in your thoughts. Show your family the humility of the Lamb of God that resides in you by your acts of kindness and gentleness towards them. You can show that you really love Jesus by feeding the sheep in your own household. You can do that by leading them in prayer, scripture readings, church fellowship, and worship through the sacraments.

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 ACTS 5:12-16 FIRST READING

(“Many signs and wonders were done among the people….”)

1. By what means did many signs and wonders occur? Acts 5:12

 

2. From where did the power to perform these signs and wonders come? Acts 1:8

 

3. This power has been passed on to whom? Acts 2:38-39

 

4. In what regard do the people place the apostles? Acts 5:13

 

5.  What did men and women in great numbers do? Acts 5:14

 

6. What did the apostles say that they came to believe? Acts 4:4

 

7. As a result of people believing and being added to their number, what did they do, and where did they bring the sick? Acts 5:15

 

8. What happened to the sick and those disturbed by unclean spirits? Acts 5:15-16

 

9. Read the following Scriptures and tell what constitutes healing: Mark 5:34 – Luke 18:42 – Acts 14:9

 

10. Read the following Scriptures and tell who was healed:

Matthew 8:16 – Matt. 12:15 –

Mark 6:56 – Acts 5:16 –

 

Personal – In what way do you see signs and wonders occurring in your home?  In what way do you, your family, friends, and co-workers need healing?  What do you think will bring about a healing? Meditate on this and then share it with someone.

 

 

THIRD DAY READ REVELATIONS 1:9-13, 17-19 SECOND READING

(“the first and the last and the one who lives”)

1. On what island did John find himself? Revelation 1:9

 

2. See if you can find this island on a Bible map.

 

3. With whom does John share and what three things does he share with them? Revelation 1:4, 9

 

4. Why was John sent to the island Patmos? Revelation 1:9

 

Personal – In what way have you ever felt deserted or isolated for proclaiming God’s word and for having borne witness to Jesus?

 

5. On the Lord’s day John heard something. What was it, and what did it say? Revelation 1:10-11

 

6. For what did John turn around, and what did he see? Revelation 1:12-13

 

7. What did he hold in his right hand and what came out of his mouth? Revelation 1:16

 

8. When John caught sight of him, what did he do? Revelation 1:17

 

9. What did he say to John? Revelation 1:17-19

 

10. What did he tell him to do when he sees a vision, what he sees now, and what he will see in time to come? Rev.1:19

 

Personal – What were some thoughts or visions you had today that you could write down? How can writing your spiritual thoughts in a journal each night help you in your journey through life?

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ JOHN 20:19-31 GOSPEL

(Blest are they who have not seen and have believed.)

1. On the evening of the first day of the week who appeared to the disciples, what did they do to the door, and for what reason? John 20:19

 

2. What did he say to them, what did he show them, and what was their reaction? John 20:19-20         

 

3. What did he say again to them? John 20:21

 

Personal – Reflect on areas in which you do not have peace. Stop what you’re doing in that area and ask the Holy Spirit if it is an area that he is sending you or speaking through you, or is it an area of your own doing?

 

4. In Verse 22 of John 20, what did Jesus do and say to the disciples?

 

5. What must we do to receive the Holy Spirit? Acts 2:38

 

6 If you forgive men’s sins, what will happen to them; and if you retain them, what will happen? John 20:23

 

7. What did Jesus say to Peter in Matthew 16:19?

 

8. Read Matthew 18:18; what does it say about binding and loosing?

 

9. Who was absent when Jesus came to the disciples, what did they keep telling him, and what was his answer? John 20:24-25

 

10. What happened a week later, what was the greeting, what did Jesus say to Thomas, and what was his response? John 20:26-28

 

11. Whom did Jesus say are the blessed? John 20:29

 

12. What did Jesus do, and why have these been recorded? John 20:30-31

 

13. Where do you find your life? John 14:6 and John 20:31 Write out John 14:6.

 

Personal – What areas of life (education, job, athletics, hobbies, etc.) have you been pursuing?  In what way can you focus more on the true fulfillment (Jesus) in life rather than on what you have been doing?

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24

(The stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.)

Read and meditate of Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24.

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

ACTS 5:12-16

It was like in the days of Jesus in Galilee all over again, so many were being healed by the apostles.  No wonder the Jewish authorities grew jealous of their enormous influence.  But threats, imprisonment, even the lash are no weapons with which to resist the power of God.  The apostles demonstrated an almost unlimited amount of healing power.  The healing was so spectacular that it seemed almost like magic. Peter parallels such items as Paul’s handkerchief (Acts.19:12) and the edge of Jesus’ cloak (Mt. 9:20).  But Peter very carefully tells all that his healing power comes from God in Jesus’ name (Acts 3:12-16).

Today, many wonder if God really heals his people.  Where are the people like Peter, Paul, and the other apostles?  Why are people so reluctant to reach out and call for a healing?  We see in today’s Scripture a high sense of expectancy by the people.  We see them bringing their sick out into the streets and believing that a healing was going to take place.  We need to bring that expectancy into our lives, and God’s healing power will explode today just as it did in the Scriptures.  We need to fall on our knees and repent of our sin of unbelief and let God heal us through his signs and wonders.

We see people like St. Francis of Assisi, Mother Teresa, and many Spirit-filled expectant Christians today who confidently call forth God’s healing power through their loving touch to the poor.  His healing power was given to all who professed that He was Lord and, as in Scripture, everyone who called on Him was healed.  His healing power is alive today through His Word, Eucharist, and the loving touch of His children.  He is the healer yesterday, today, and forever.

It was common practice for groups to meet for teaching and discussion in the courts of the public buildings.  Disciples listened to their teachers in the courts of the Temple.  The Christians met in Solomon’s Porch; but knowing the authorities’ hostilities toward them, many kept their distance.  Some Jews were afraid to join the meetings because they were in direct defiance of the Sanhedrin’s order as seen in chapter four of Acts.

Because of the fate of Ananias and his wife (Acts 5:1-11), those who want to follow Christ should seriously evaluate the cost of discipleship.

 

REVELATION 1:9-13, 17-19

Revelation shows us that John was a church leader who was well known to the seven churches in Asia Minor. The churches were located about 50 miles apart and formed a circle in what today is known as Turkey. These churches were like postal centers, and the entire book of Revelation apparently was sent to each one of the seven churches.

The Christians were entering a time of persecution and John, himself, was sent to the Island of Patmos which was a Roman penal colony.  Roman authorities at this time were beginning to enforce the cult of emperor worship.  Christians who held that Christ, not Caesar, was Lord faced great hostility. John, himself, was exiled for proclaiming the Word of God and the testimony of Jesus (v.9).

John wrote to the believers to resist staunchly the demands of emperor worship.  John is also encouraged to write about what is current and what is to happen.  We also need to write, read, and reflect on what the Lord is saying to us in our daily living.  Like John, we are called to spread the word of God and testimony of Jesus.  We need to write in our journal those daily inspirational thoughts that come from the Holy Spirit.  We also need to stand up like John did to the idolatry of today’s world.

The gods of money, power, sex, and the media are very powerful and demand full tribute.  We, like John, may be called upon to pay the price for our belief in Jesus Christ.  Jesus tells us to go forth and make disciples of all nations (Mat. 28:16-20). Jesus gave John the great commission; he responded, and we are called to make the same response.

JOHN 20:19-31

There is a story told about a primitive South American jungle tribe that had as its most important member someone who was called “A keeper of the flame.”  Fire among this primitive people was a precious commodity and to start a fire often took long hours.  Keeping the flame going was much easier.  It was the very important task of the flame keeper to add wood to the fire at night and to be sure the fire never went out.  In today’s Gospel, we see Jesus’ final appearance was to prepare the disciples to continue to carry on his earthly ministry.  His final words to his followers are basically words that will equip them to be “keepers of the flame.”

Jesus appeared to this small group of frightened men gathered in the upper room.  He found them in the darkness of despair.  Jesus greeted them, “Peace be unto you” (John 20:19).  Oh, how they needed to hear those words from him.  A more frightened group of men could not be found anywhere in Jerusalem that night.

Jesus startled his disciples out of their despair by reminding them of a fundamental fact: “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you” (John 20:21).  Jesus is saying, ” I need you to continue the work that I started.”   Even though he would be seen leaving to ascend to heaven, the fire started by his life, death, and resurrection must not be extinguished.  He must continue to teach, preach, heal, save mankind, and he will do it through his “keepers of the flame.”   His new body will be composed of believers, and they will become Christ’s hands, feet, heart, and life upon the earth.

And what about us?  Is the message and mission of Jesus continuing in our world?  Are we fulfilling the mission entrusted to the small group of men who followed Jesus of Nazareth?  What is our calling?  The answer to these questions requires a closer look at this Easter appearance of Jesus.  Meeting their Resurrected Savior transformed eleven terrified apostles into courageous “keepers of the flame.”  The secret of their power is also our secret, and that is the peace of mind and heart.   

The real power is the Holy Spirit, who gives us the Peace of Christ and sends us out to fulfill the Great Commission.  He gives us the power to fulfill this mission by giving us what we need most, “His living presence in our life.”  There are four things we must be ready to do in a moment as “keepers of the flame”:  pray, preach, give our testimony, and die.  The mission of our Lord, Jesus Christ, is ours; and we must be ready to do what he has done also.

 

Application

The first reading shows that Jesus is the healer yesterday, today, and forever.  The second reading shows that like John, we are called to spread the Word of God everywhere.  The Gospel tells us that we are called to be “keepers of the flame.”

To be a “keeper of the flame” in your family, you must take on the responsibility of making certain that the fire does not go out.  You can do this by your prayer, leading your family in Scripture, attending the sacraments with them, encouraging them to give their lives to Christ, and letting them see in your actions that you are a real “keeper of the flame.”

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 ACTS 10:34, 37-43 FIRST READING

(“We have eaten and drunk with him after his resurrection from the dead.”)

1. Who was Peter addressing? Acts 10:24-28

 

2. What did he say to them? Acts 10:34-35

 

3. How does Deuteronomy 10:17 describe God, and what does it say he does not do? 2 Chronicles 19:7

 

4. For what reason does God have no favorites? Job 34:19, Wisdom 6:7.

 

Personal – In what way do you show partiality with your children, your friends, and your co-workers? Spend time alone with the Lord, repent of this, and ask the Lord to help you look at others through his eyes.

 

5. What was reported all over Judea about Jesus of Nazareth? Where did it begin, and with what? Acts 10:37-38

 

6. Who anointed Jesus and who anointed Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy? Acts 10:38, 2 Corinthians 1:21-22

 

7. What two things did Jesus go about doing and who was with him? Acts 10:38

 

8. To what are they witnesses, what did they finally do to him, and what did God do? Acts 10:39-40

 

9. What did God grant, and by whom? Acts 10:40-41

 

10. Who are the chosen and for what purpose are they chosen? Ephesians 1:11-13

 

11. What did he commission us to do?  Acts 10:42

 

12. Whom has he sent to preach to the people? Mark 3:14

 

13. Who are his disciples today? John 8:31, John 13:35

 

14. To what are we to bear witness and to what do all the prophets testify? Acts 10:42-43

 

Personal – What results and power do you see in your everyday life from your anointing with the Holy Spirit?  Does your family see good works and healing taking place from your touch? Reflect on this.

 

 

THIRD DAY READ COLOSSIANS 3:1-4 SECOND READING

(“Be intent on things above rather than things of earth.”)

1. With whom have we been raised up, and on what should we set our heart? Colossians 3:1

 

2. Where is Christ seated? Colossians 3:1

 

3. Who raised us up and gave us a place in the heavens? Ephesians 2:4-6.

 

4. On what are we to be intent and why? Colossians 3:2-3

 

5. What are things that are rooted in earth? Colossians 3:5, 8, 9

 

6. How do we become intent on things above? Colossians 3:10

 

7. Where is our life hidden now? Colossians 3:3

 

8. Who is Christ to us?  Colossians 3:4

 

9. When Christ appears, what will happen to us and in what way? Colossians 3:4

 

Personal – As you have died with Christ to your old desires and to things rooted in this earth, do your family, friends, and work acquaintances see you as a reflection of Christ?  On a sheet of paper name some of the characteristics of Christ in one column and in another column list your characteristics through a 24-hour day and compare the two columns.

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ JOHN 20:1-9 GOSPEL

(“He saw and believed.”)

1. Who came to the tomb, what time was it, and what day was it? John 20:1

 

2. Where was Mary Magdalene as Jesus hung on the cross? John 19:25

 

3. What did Jesus drive out of Mary? Mark 16:9

 

4. What did Mary see when she arrived at the tomb? John 20:1

 

5. To whom did she run, and what did she say to them? John 20:2

 

6. What did Peter and the other disciple do? John 20:3

 

7. Who reached the tomb first, and how did they get there? John 20:4

 

Personal – In what way do you see yourself running to see Jesus? Are you persevering in running the race?  On whom are you keeping your eyes fixed? Do your family and friends see you as someone with eyes looking up or cast down? Read Hebrews 12:1-2.

 

8. What did the disciple do when he got to the tomb and what did he see lying on the ground? John 20:5

 

9. What did Peter do when he got there? What did he observe on the ground, and what did he notice about the cloth which had covered Jesus’ head?  John 20:6-7

 

10. What did the disciple who had arrived first do and what was his reaction to this?  John 20:8

 

11. What does it take to believe? John 1:12

 

12. What will you receive by believing in the name of Jesus? John 3:36

 

13. After Jesus rose from the dead, what did the disciples come to understand and believe? John 2:22

 

14. When did they understand and believe? Luke 24:30-32

 

15. What does Jesus say about those who believe and have not seen? John 20:29

 

Personal – How have you seen a change take place in your life through reading the scriptures?  Have you come to believe in the spoken word of Jesus through the scriptures?  Remember, John tells us Jesus is the Word made flesh.  Pray and ask God to fill you with an understanding of the Word through his gift of the Holy Spirit that you received from him.

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23

(“The right hand of the Lord has struck with power.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23.

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

ACTS 10:34, 37-43

Alleluia is a Hebrew word that means “praise ye the Lord.” On this great day of Easter Sunday we give thanks, gratitude and our complete joy in the form of praise to our Lord, Jesus Christ.  This passage strongly shows that the resurrection is the basic doctrine and proof of the truth of the Christian faith. We are told in scripture that if Christ has not risen, then our preaching is in vain, and our faith is worthless also (1 Cor. 15:14).

There are many today who disregard the physical resurrection and say that it is no big deal. They say that it is the spiritual resurrection that really matters. St. Paul says just the opposite. Jesus rose from the dead, and then he was seen by witnesses who had not only spoken with him, but had actually eaten with him.  The Apostles were devastated on Friday night after the crucifixion. They remained locked in the upper room, fearful of what the Roman soldiers were going to do next.  They were even too afraid to do any wishful thinking about their beloved master Jesus. They were hard to convince even when it happened.

We need to reflect on this passage. Have we seen him, have we talked with him, have we eaten with him? he is alive today, and like the Apostle Peter, we too are called to evangelize and teach about Jesus.  We are called to fellowship with others who believe that he is risen and that he lives today. We need to discover through Christ something significant about each other, both believers and non-believers. He has risen for the whole world – Alleluia – Alleluia!

 

COLOSSIANS 3:1-4

In this passage, Paul begins by bringing us into the core meaning of our baptism. In the early days of the church, baptism was by total immersion.  When you heard the story of Christ and you were ready to believe in the one true God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, you were then immersed in water.  You were cleansed from your sins and worldliness. Immersion was a symbol of being drowned or buried with Christ. This signified that the new Christian has died to all earthly attachments and desires. He was raised out of the water or the tomb to be with the risen Christ. Paul said, “If you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above.”  This means that we must mean what we say and do.

We have been raised with Christ and we no longer need to dwell on things of the earth. This does not mean we can walk away from responsibility. It does not mean just being obedient to parents and to society. It does not mean just that we have to work to support ourselves or our families. It means that our earthly possessions must not dominate our life.

We are called to love people, not things, money, power, status, etc. Our lives need to show that what we did at baptism has life-long meaning. What we do is far more effective on others than what we say. We were created for unending happiness in heaven and this happiness is now within our grasp, thanks to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  We are helped in our daily living by God’s holy grace. Remember, God wants us to go to heaven, and he has an Easter resurrection planned for all of us.

 

JOHN 20:1-9

The divine plan of God for all people was accomplished through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. All people would now be eligible to be called sons and daughters of God because of Jesus Christ’s perfect act of obedience. Because of him, we will one day like Christ rise from the grave  in our glorified bodies. The resurrection was the basis of the new Christian faith. Had it not happened, Christianity would never have started. There would have been no Easter Sunday. Peter would have returned with his companions to their fishing nets and boats, and Jesus Christ would have been forgotten after a few short years.

Mary Magdalene’s discovery of an empty tomb brought shock and fear. She ran to Peter and told him that she thought someone had stolen the body of Jesus. Peter had to see for himself and check out the facts. We might take notice of how the clothes were folded after they discovered Jesus’ body was gone. They would not have been arranged that way if there had been a robbery. The disciples were completely surprised when they found the empty tomb. It was only then that they remembered that Jesus had said that he would rise again.

Many people today do not believe in Jesus because the “facts” do not check out. We can only accept the fact of the resurrection when we have first personally encountered Jesus Christ. The understanding of the resurrection takes on a special meaning as we commit our life to Jesus and his presence remains with us. Jesus’ resurrection is the key to our Christian faith because death, as we know it, is not the end. Jesus’ bodily  resurrection shows us that he is ruler of God’s kingdom. Because of his promise, we who die to ourselves with him will rise from the dead with him.  Because of him, you and I can face tomorrow without fear.  Because of him, we have his Holy Spirit living within us and protecting us against all evil (1 John 4:4). Because of him, we can witness to all the people in the world that if they believe in Jesus Christ, they will be given  eternal happiness. Because of him, all mankind can really be free and live forever.  Alleluia – he is Risen – Alleluia – he is Alive.

 

Application

The first reading shows that “Alleluia” is a Hebrew word that means Praise the Lord.  The second reading reveals that Baptism is being drowned or buried with Christ.  The Gospel tells us that because of Jesus Christ all mankind can really be free.

Jesus’ death brought us freedom from sin and death. We are now called to free others from sin and death here on earth. Some of us can do that by our professions as medical people, legal people, politicians, educators, business people, parents, and children.

This week, free someone in your family, home, or workplace from a chore that you know they do not like.  Let them see that joy in someone who really knows that he is free.  Then each day, have your family gather together to pray that all may become free from sin through Jesus Christ.  Because of him, you are free.  Let freedom ring throughout this land.

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 50:4-7 FIRST READING

(“The Lord is my help, therefore I am not disgraced.”)

l. From where did the well-trained tongue come? To whom has he given it, and for what reason has he been given a well-trained tongue? Isaiah 50:4

 

2. When and what does he open that you may hear? Isaiah 50:4

 

3. What has he not done? Isaiah 50:5

 

4. What happens to those who rebel? 1 Samuel 12:15

 

5. What did the servant do to those who beat him and plucked his beard? Isaiah 50:6

 

6. From what did he not shield his face? Isaiah 50:6, Matthew 26:67 and 27:30

 

7. Who is the servant’s help, and how has he set his face? Isaiah 50:7

 

8. What does the servant know?  Isaiah 50:7

 

Personal – When do you hear the Lord speaking to you?  What is he saying to you?  In what way, by using a well-trained tongue, do you rouse the weary in your own household?  Pray and ask the Lord to reveal to you how you can train your tongue.

 

 

THIRD DAY READ PHILIPPIANS 2:6-11 SECOND READING

(“Jesus Christ is Lord.”)

1. What must be your attitude? Philippians 2:5

 

2. Of whom was he in the form? Philippians 2:6

 

3. Who is Christ? John 1:1, 14

 

4. What was something at which he did not grasp? Philippians 2:6

 

5. Rather, of what did he become empty and why? Philippians 2:7, 2 Corinthians 8:9

 

6. Of what did he take the form, and in whose likeness was he born, and of what was he known to be? Philippians 2:7

 

7. What two things did he do in verse 8 of Philippians 2?

 

8. For what reason did he do the above two things? Hebrews 2:14, 17

 

9. Because he humbled himself and accepted death on the cross, what two things did God do for him? Philippians 2:9

 

10. What must every knee do, in the heavens, on the earth, and under the earth, at the name of Jesus, and what must every tongue proclaim? Philippians 2:10-11

 

11. What does this tell you beyond a doubt?  Acts 2:36

 

12. For whose glory is this proclaimed (Philippians 2:11), and what will happen to you if you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead? Romans 10:9

 

13. Who gives you the power to say “Jesus is Lord?” 1 Corinthians 12:3

 

Personal – In what way is your attitude that of Christ?  In what way have you humbled yourself?  What cross have you obediently accepted?  Read Mark 8:34 and meditate on this.

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 22:14-23:56 GOSPEL

(“Father, forgive them; they do not know what they are doing.”)

1. When Jesus took his place at the table what did he tell his disciples he was eager to do, what did he say about the cup, and what did he do and say with the bread and the cup? Luke 22:14-20

 

2. Who did Jesus say was at table with him, what did he say about him, and about what were the disciples debating? Luke 22:21-23

 

3. About what were the disciples arguing, what did Jesus say to them, and how did he say he was among them? Luke 22:24-27

 

Personal – In what ways do you show others that you are a servant?

 

4. Who did Jesus say stood by him in trials, and what did he say would happen to them? Luke 22:28-30

 

5. What did Jesus say Satan has demanded, what did Jesus do so their faith would not fail, what did he tell them to do, and what did he say to Peter? Luke 22:31-34

 

6. What did Jesus tell his disciples to do now in contrast to what they were doing? What did he say about the scripture, and what was his reply to the disciples “Look, look, there are two swords?” Luke 22:35-38

 

7. When Jesus and the disciples went to the Mt. of Olives, what did he say to them.  Withdrawing from them what did Jesus say to his Father, what strengthened him, and what was happening to him?  Luke 22:39-44

 

8. How did Jesus find his disciples and what did he tell them?  Luke 22:45-46

 

Personal – In what way have you failed to stay awake when someone you know was hurting?

 

9. How did Judas betray Jesus, what did Jesus say to him, what was the disciples response, and what did Jesus do and say? Luke 22:47-53

 

10. After they led Jesus away to arrest him what happened to Peter, when did Peter remember the word of the Lord, and what was his response? Luke 22:54-62

 

11. How did the men who held Jesus treat him, what did they say to Jesus when they brought him before the Sanhedrin, what was his response, and what was their conclusion? Luke 22:63-71

 

12. What did the assembly say about Jesus, what did Pilate ask Jesus, what did he say about his guilt, and how did the people respond to this?  Luke 23:1-5

 

13. Where did Pilate send Jesus, what was Herod’s reaction to seeing Jesus, and why did he react that way?  Luke 23:6-8

 

14. How was Jesus treated by Herod, the scribes, chief priest and soldiers, what happened to Herod and Pilate’s relationship that day, and what did Pilate say to the chief priest, rulers, and the people?  Luke 23:9-17

 

Personal – Share a time you have been swayed by popular opinion and gone along with the crowd? Did it turn out to be a good or bad decision?

 

15. What did the people shout, who was Barabbas, what happened to Barabbas, and how many times did Pilate address the people? Luke 23:18-25

 

16. Who carried the cross behind Jesus, who followed after Jesus, and what did Jesus say to them? Luke 23:26-31

 

17. Who was led away with Jesus to be executed, what happened at the place called the Skull, and what did Jesus ask the Father? Luke 23:32-34

 

Personal – In what way does your life show that you have accepted and received God’s forgiveness for you?

 

18. What did the rulers say, what did the soldiers call out to him, and what was inscribed above him? Luke 23:35-38

 

19. What did each of the criminals hanging there with Jesus say, and what did Jesus tell the one? Luke 23:39-43

 

20. At noon what happened to the veil in the temple, what did Jesus say before he breathed his last, what did the centurion and the people say and do?  Luke 23:44-48

 

21. Where were his acquaintances including the women, who was Joseph, and what did he do?  Luke 23:49-53

 

22. What day was it, what was about to begin, what did the women do, and what was the commandment they observed? Luke 23:54-56

 

Personal – Since last year what change has taken place in your life as a result of what Jesus has done for you?

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 22:8-9, 17-20, 23-24

(“They have pierced my hands and my feet.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 22:8-9, 17-20, 23-24.

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 50:4-7

The source of strength and courage for all suffering, trial, and tribulations is the suffering and death of our divine Lord Jesus Christ.  We need to hold fast to Him when the world closes in with its assault, rejection, and abandonment.  He not only has traveled this same road before the saints of old, but He travels it today constantly waiting to be with us in our suffering.

Jesus’ suffering and death opened the road to heaven for all, even though many refuse the gift.  He gave up everything for us, and He bestowed us with love, trust, hope, respect, and eternal life.  In return, He was spat upon, ridiculed, beaten, jeered, scourged and mocked.  He finally was executed when He was nailed to a cross on Calvary between two criminals.

This is a day of reflection as we are about to enter Holy Week.  Let us not forget the actions and the words of this suffering servant of Isaiah.  We need to reflect on how quickly the crowd changed from adoring Him to jeering Him.  He had taken up a cross for us, and we must remember that we too are called to carry a cross for someone else.  Sometimes we think our cross is too heavy, or that it is unfair to bear such a heavy cross. Dying to self and putting the needs of others first is our daily cross.  How heavy is your cross compared to Christ’s?  How is your Calvary compared to Jesus’ Calvary?

 

PHILIPPIANS 2:6-11

Paul tells us that our attitude should be the same as that of Jesus Christ (Phil. 2:5).  He describes putting on the attitude of a servant rather than that of a king.  Jesus, though being God, did not demand his rights and privileges of royalty.  He deliberately set them all aside and had taken on the role of a servant.  There lies the incredible formula of a successful leader.  Jesus led by serving all of us.  He showed us that by putting others first and by being humble are the only ways a person can become a real leader.  The sheep followed the shepherd because they trusted him.  People will follow a leader if they know that he has their welfare at heart.

Jesus showed us everything of God’s character in human terms.  He was obedient even unto death, and the type of death he chose for Himself was extremely painful.  Jesus is the perfect role model for us in the world today. How many times do you demand your rights when you are being treated less than fairly?  The name of Jesus should bring to every Christian person the name of a person who willingly died so that all people could be free, and He died for us absolutely knowing that we are sinners (Romans 5:8).

Jesus voluntarily laid aside His divine rights, privileges, and position out of love for His Father.  We, too, are called to lay aside our rights and privileges for our oppressed brothers and sisters in the holy name of Jesus.

 

LUKE 22:14-23:56

Today’s gospel is lengthy and very powerful.  It reveals the emotions of the powerful and the lowly.  We see Jesus at the Last Supper eagerly waiting for it to begin.  He has mixed feelings of joy and sadness, because a betrayer was sitting among a group of very close friends.  We see pride and greed being displayed in the question, “Who among them was the greatest?” And the Master knew He was to be betrayed for thirty pieces of silver.

The betrayal of Christ by Judas happens and Jesus is arrested in the dark of night.  He is ridiculed, humiliated, tortured, and was denied, rejected and abandoned by his closest followers.  He faced the mockery of a trial and his friends and family became unfriendly towards Him. Nevertheless, He was not alone in that His Father was with Him and in Him.  He was strengthened and enlightened by the Holy Spirit.

He was humiliated and whipped by the soldiers and dragged through the howling mob to a hill called Golgotha which means Skull.  Jesus was flung and nailed onto a cross. The kingdom of God was now about to be inaugurated through His death and the places on his right and left were to be taken by two dying criminals.

Jesus told His two power-hungry disciples, James and John, (Mark 10:35-39) that a person who wishes to be close to Him must be prepared to suffer and die as He did.  This message is meant for us even today.  The way to the kingdom is the way of the cross.  Jesus then manifested to the whole world by being on the cross the core to healing is through forgiveness.  Jesus asked His Father to forgive all those who were putting Him to death.  This included the corrupt leaders in the church, politicians, soldiers, and even the bystanders who laughed and ridiculed while He was on the cross. God answered that prayer by opening the way to salvation to all sinners including Jesus’ murderers.

Since we are all sinners (Romans 3:23) we have all played a part in putting Jesus to death.  The Good News is that God forgives and He gives us a new life through His Son, Jesus.  The thief on the right side of Jesus called out to him for forgiveness, and Jesus accepted him and granted the forgiveness to him.  This shows that our faith in Jesus is a saving faith, and it is never to late to turn to God.  Even in his misery Jesus had mercy on this criminal, and that same mercy is waiting to be granted to us.

 

Application

The first reading tells us that we are to live in God’s light not our own light.  The second reading tells us that Jesus was an obedient servant even unto death on the cross.  The gospel reveals forgiveness is the core of healing.

This week, let yourself experience what it really means to forgive.  Look around and see in your family, job, or school those whom you need to forgive.  Jesus tells us that it is necessary to forgive others just as he has forgiven us.  You have the power within yourself through the Holy Spirit (1 John 4:4) to hold someone in bondage or you can forgive and give them freedom.  The choice is yours, and remember, the truth will set you free (John 8:32).

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 43:16-21 FIRST READING

  (“See, I am doing something new!”)

1. What has the Lord done? Isaiah 43:16

 

2. Why has he done this? Isaiah 51:10.

 

3. When was this done? Exodus 14:21.

 

4. Who lies prostrate never to rise again? Isaiah 43:17

 

5. What are we not to remember or even consider? Isaiah 43:18

 

Personal – Memorize Isaiah 43:18.  When your mind begins to dwell on the past, from this time forward, repeat this verse and keep your eyes on what Jesus has in store for you.

 

6. What is the Lord doing in verse 19 of Isaiah 43?

 

7. Who honors the Lord?  Isaiah 43:20

 

8. Where does the Lord put water and who drinks it? Isaiah 43:20

 

9. Who are his chosen in the following scriptures:

a. Luke 9:35    –

b. Acts 1:2     –

c. Deut. 7:6-11 –

d. Romans 11:5  –

 

10. For what reason did he form these people? Isaiah 43:21

 

Personal – In what way do you see yourself as one of God’s chosen people? Meditate on this.

 

 

THIRD DAY READ PHILIPPIANS 3:8-14 SECOND READING

(“I continue my pursuit toward the goal, the prize of God’s upward calling, in Christ Jesus.”)

1. To what has Paul considered all as loss, what has he accepted, and for what reason has he considered this? Philippians 3:8

 

2. What is the righteousness Paul possesses and where does it have its origin? Philippians 3:9

 

3. On what is this righteousness based? Philippians 3:9

 

4. What three things does Paul wish to know in verse 10 of Philippians 3?

1.

2.

3.

 

5. What does Romans 6:3-4 say about baptism?

 

6. What must we do in order to be glorified with him? Romans 6:4 and John 3:16.

 

7. What does Paul hope to attain? Philippians 3:11

 

8. What has Paul not yet reached, what is he pursuing, and who has taken possession of him? Philippians 3:12

 

9. What do Philippians 3:13 and Isaiah 43:18 tell us to forget and what are we to do?

 

10. Toward what is Paul pursuing and what is the prize? Philippians 3:14

 

Personal – In which of the following ways are you going towards the finish line: sitting, crawling, strolling, fast walking, or running? What is the goal you are pursuing?

 

 

FOURTH READ JOHN 8:1-11 GOSPEL

(“Neither do I condemn you. Go, (and) from now on do not sin anymore.”)

1. Where was Jesus and what did he do when the people started coming to him? John 8:1-2

 

2. What two groups of men were there, who did they bring in, and what did they make her do? John 8:3

 

3. How did they address Jesus and what did they say to him? John 8:4-5

 

4. According to the law if a woman is married and is caught in adultery what will happen to both man and woman? Leviticus 20:10, Deuteronomy 22:22-24

 

5. Why did they question Jesus about the adulterer and what did Jesus do when they questioned him about her? John 8:6

 

6. When they persisted in their questioning, what did he say to them? John 8:7

 

7. How can you avoid judgment, and what must you do to see clearly? Matthew 7:1-5

 

8. Who are the sinners among us? Romans 3:23

 

9. What did Jesus do a second time? What happened to the audience, and in what succession? John 8:8-9

 

Personal – By whom are you being led?  Are you obedient to what your leaders in government tell you? Are you obedient to what your church leaders tell you?  Has there been a time when Jesus’ Word has been put in conflict with what government or church law has stated?  How have you responded to that conflict?

 

10. What did Jesus say to the woman after they were alone, what was her response, and then what did he say?  John 8:10-11

 

11. In what does God take pleasure? Ezekiel 33:11

 

Personal – How can you bring pleasure to the Lord today?  Take time to examine your conscience and attend the sacrament of reconciliation this week.

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 126:1-6

(The Lord will lead his people from captivity to freedom)

Read and meditate on Psalm 126:1-6.

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 43:16-21

The prophet Isaiah continues to proclaim a favorite theme to the exiles in Babylon.  It is called, “The New Exodus.”  God is being shown as the one “creating Israel – opening a way – leading out chariots”.  The words portray the exodus out of Egypt, ending in the final scene where the Egyptians are lying prostrate and never to be rising.  Pharaoh’s troops were crushed and drowned as they rushed into the parted sea opened for the Israelites (Exodus 15:19).  The Israelites are being warned not to continue glorifying in a past that has no time for application in the present.

The old exodus was temporary; the new exodus is forever.  The word Anamnesis is from this great act of exodus. (Exodus 15:19) Anamnesis means to bring back, to continue, to recreate, to live.  This is the heart of the Eucharistic prayer that constitutes the new exodus at every celebration of the Catholic Mass.  The people are being told to stop looking in the past and look to the future, toward the permanent, new exodus.

 

PHILIPPIANS 3:8-14

Paul shows us that true freedom can be found only in Jesus Christ, not in observance of a law.  He came to God in humble faith, as Jesus told him to do, and he found that fellowship he had sought for so long. Paul discovers that a right relationship with God is based not on law but on faith in Jesus Christ. Righteousness is not achieved by any man but given by God.  Paul’s understanding of Christ changed his whole value system.

Paul, being a Jew himself, was very much aware of how complete compliance with the law was stressed.  He was an educated man, a Roman citizen, and one who hunted down people who did not comply fully with the Jewish belief.

To Paul, salvation meant sharing in the power of Christ’s resurrection as well as sharing in the suffering and becoming like him in death.  Like Paul, we too hope to share in the power of Christ’s resurrection, even as it means sharing in his sufferings and becoming like him in death.  Our sharing in his suffering can be through rejection by loved ones, family or friends. Jesus experienced rejection by friends right in his own home town.  It is this kind of imitation of Christ that gives us hope that will be completed by our resurrection from the dead, even as Christ also was raised.

Paul tells us that he has not yet reached his goal, that he is not yet been raised and is not yet perfect.  Paul tells us in 1 Timothy 6:12 “Fight the good fight of faith, take firm hold on the  everlasting life to which you were called, when, in the presence of many witnesses you made your noble profession of faith.”  We continue to make our profession of faith every time we say the Nicene Creed at a Roman Catholic Mass until we reach the finish line which is life on high in Christ Jesus.

Resurrection and perfection are goals which are pursued, not ones which we already have.  The prize of which Paul speaks is “Life on high in Christ Jesus”, that is, knowing and experiencing Jesus.  Our righteousness and goals come not because of our merit but because of grace which comes from God through Jesus Christ.

 

JOHN 8:1-11

In the eyes of the Jewish law, adultery was a very serious crime and was punishable by death.  The Scribes and the Pharisees were out to get something on Jesus and discredit him.

A scribe was an educated man, an intellectual, maybe a lawyer or even a scholar.  They were teachers of the Law.  Many were chosen to be Rabbis.  A Pharisee was a leader who practiced the observance of the law to its maximum degree.  The Pharisees were more concerned with keeping the external tenets of the law than what was in your heart.

The leaders insisted that Jesus give a decision on what to do with this adulteress.  They were hoping to trap him.  Jesus turned the tables on them by saying, “Let the man that is without sin cast the first stone.”  The elders were the first to leave and the rest followed.  Today, as in the days of Christ, people still follow the lead of influential people in the community, even if they are uninformed.  Jesus asked her where did her tormentors go, and who is there to condemn her.  Jesus told her that he does not condemn her either and to go and sin no more.  In Jesus there is the gospel of the second chance.  He didn’t say that what she had done did not matter; broken laws and broken hearts always matter;  but he was interested in her future more than in her past.

The Pharisees and scribes wished to condemn; Jesus wished to forgive.  They knew the thrill of exercising power to condemn; Jesus knew the thrill of exercising the power to forgive.  Jesus confronted the woman with a challenge to go out and reach for a life that does not involve sin.  He called her to go out and fight, to change her life completely.  Jesus showed his belief in her as a person.  He did not say “Lady you are a loser.”  He said, “Go and sin no more.”  His method is not to blast people with the knowledge which they already knew, that they were miserable sinners, but to inspire them to become living saints.

Jesus also gives a warning, unspoken but implied. She has a choice either to go back to her old life and end up in destruction or to reach out to the new way with him.  Jesus tells the man who he had just healed in the pool to stop sinning or something worse may happen to him (John 5:14).  He clearly warns all of us that sin leads only to destruction.  He offers to all of us a second chance, the gift of forgiveness.                

 

Application

The first reading shows us that to look “back” is not of the Lord.  The second reading reveals that only in Christ can true freedom be experienced.  The Gospel tells us that Jesus forgives us, he does not condemn us.

This week, let your family and your community see and experience you as a person who seeks justice and extends mercy and forgiveness.  A person who can forgive and forget is a person who is really free.

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 JOSHUA 5:9-12 FIRST READING

(“Today I have removed the reproach of Egypt from you.”)

1. What did the Lord tell Joshua he had removed from them that day? Joshua 5:9

 

2. What has the Lord removed from those who fear him? Psalm 103:12

 

3. Where were the Israelites encamped, and what did they celebrate on the evening of the fourteenth of the month? Joshua 5:10

 

4. What was prescribed by the Lord on the fourteenth day of the month? Exodus 12:5-6, 11

 

5. What did the Israelites eat the day after the Passover? Joshua 5:11

 

6. For what are we to work, and who gives it to us? John 6:27

 

7. What did Jesus say is true food and drink, and what happens to whoever eats and drinks it? John 6:55-56

 

8. On that same day, after the Passover, what ceased? Joshua 5:12

 

9. How long did they eat the manna? Exodus 16:35

 

10. How long will you live if you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood? John 6:49-51

 

Personal – What has been removed from you that allows you to participate in communion on Sunday? In your life, what shows that communion is more important than the food on your table?

 

 

THIRD DAY READ 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17-21 SECOND READING

(“So, we are ambassadors for Christ, as if God were appealing through us.”)

1. What is “whoever is in Christ,” and what has happened to the old things? 2 Corinthians 5:17

 

2. To those who accepted Christ, what did he give them the power to become? John 1:12-13

 

3. How have we been reconciled to God, and what has he given us the ministry of? 2 Corinthians 5:18

 

4. What were we when we were reconciled to God, and how were we saved? Romans 5:10-11

 

5. What did God not count, and what did he entrust to us? 2 Corinthians 5:19

 

6. What does David declare, and who is blessed? Romans 4:6-8

 

7. What are we for Christ, and what is Paul imploring the people to be? 2 Corinthians 5:20

 

8. How does Paul want to make known the mystery of the Gospel, and what does that make him in chains? Ephesians 6:19-20

 

9. For whose sake did God make Jesus become sin even though he did not know sin, and what did that make us?  2 Cor. 5:21

 

10. What is Jesus able to do and for what reason?  Hebrews 4:15

 

Personal – If God has entrusted to you the message of reconciliation, how have you shared and acted upon that message to those around you?

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 15:1-3,11-32 GOSPEL

(“But now we must celebrate and rejoice, because your brother was dead and has come to life again.”)

1. Who was drawing near to listen to Jesus, and what were the Pharisees and scribes complaining about?  How did he address them? Luke 15:1-3

 

2. In the parable Jesus told, what happened to the younger son? What did the man long to eat? Luke 15:11-16

 

3. Coming to his senses, what did he decide to do, and what was he going to say to his father? Luke 15:17-19

 

4. With what was his father filled when he saw his son, and what did he do? Luke 15:20

 

5. On who does the Lord have compassion? Psalm 103:13

 

6. What did the son say to the father, and what did the father do and say about the son? Luke 15:21-24

 

7. What were we following that made us dead in our own transgressions, and how were we brought to life? Ephesians 2:1-5

 

8. What was the older son’s reaction to all the dancing and festivities for the younger son? Luke 15:25-28

 

9. What did the father do at the older son’s reaction, and what did he say to his father? Luke 15:29-30

 

10. What did the father say belonged to the older son, and why did he say it was time to celebrate? Luke 15:31-32

 

11. What is the will of our heavenly Father, and how should we not feel over one of his little ones? Matthew 18:10-14

 

Personal – With whom do you relate in this gospel, and why?

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 34:2-7

(“Look to him that you may be radiant with joy.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 34:2-7.

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

JOSHUA 5:9-12

The Israelites were ready to soon enter into the promised land after spending 39 years in the wilderness unnecessarily because they were afraid and underestimated God’s ability.  The Canaanites heard about Israel’s great victories through God (crossing the Red Sea) and were terrified of them.  Do not underestimate God. If we are faithful to him, as Joshua and the Israelites were faithful, then God can cause great opposition to melt away. God can change the attitudes of those who oppose us.

The Lord spoke to Joshua and told him that he was to circumcise all the males in his camp because that was the sign of the covenant with him. Then the angel spoke to Joshua and told him to prepare for battle and to listen to God’s plan only. They celebrated the feast of Passover before they went on to the battle of Jericho.  The celebration reminded them of who they were, and what happened to get them that far.

This was the first celebration of the Passover in the Promised Land.  The Israelites remembered how God was with them in their times of danger and hunger. They were now in a land that was overflowing with fruit, vegetables, and water. They knew that God has miraculously provided this land for them. They knelt and in prayer they thanked God for keeping their faith strong enough to get through the wilderness.

They knew, and it is important for us to know too, that prayer is not an alternative to preparing for what needs to be done, and faith is not a substitute for hard, honest work.  God can and does provide us with miracles, but he expects us to use our God-given talents and resources to provide for others and ourselves.

 

2 CORINTHIANS 5:17-21

Christians are brand-new people on the inside when they become baptized. The Holy Spirit dwells within them and gives them a new life, and they are no longer the same. When we become baptized and a new child of the Lord, we are not reformed, rehabilitated or reeducated: we are brand-new creations, living in complete union with Christ (Colossians 2:6,7). It does not mean we are turning over a new leaf when we are baptized. It means we are beginning a new life under a new Master. We are reconciled to God by his wiping out of our sins, or original sin if one is being baptized as a child. We are made righteous. We are no longer strangers or foreigners when we trust in God.

Because we have been reconciled to God, we now have been given the privilege of encouraging others to do the same. We are called to be ambassadors for Christ, and this means we are to be his representatives. As ambassadors of Christ, we are sent with his message of reconciliation to the world. We need not take this responsibility lightly because a hungry, broken, poor, and oppressed world anxiously and hopefully awaits us. How do you see yourself in the role of Christ’s ambassador?

While you trust in Christ, you make a trade: your sins for his goodness. He took on unto himself all of our sins at Calvary, and we received his righteousness that he has poured out for us at our conversion.  This is what Christians mean when they talk about Christ’s atonement for sin. Let us fall on our knees and give God our total gratitude for making this marvelous trade available for us.

 

LUKE 15:1-3, 11-32

Today’s Gospel shows us the conflict between the Pharisees’ way of treating a sinner and Jesus’ way.  To people who did not keep the law, a label called “The people of the land” was given to them. These people were shunned by most Orthodox Jews. A Pharisee was forbidden to have anything to do with a known sinner. They were shocked at the easy way that Jesus got along with them. Their attitude was that to eat with a sinner, to talk to a sinner and to be with sinners must mean that you, too, were a sinner. Their philosophy was to destroy the sinner before God.

Jesus, of course, believed in saving the sinner and told them a story about a young man who was very rebellious to his family. Jewish law stated that the oldest son must get twice as much inheritance money as all the other sons combined.  In this story the younger of two sons demanded his share of the money. He was bored and lazy and wanted to leave home to go and enjoy the outside world.  He soon ran through the money, and he finished up feeding the pigs at a local farm.  This was a job that was forbidden to a Jew because the law stated, “Cursed is he who feeds the swine.

The turning point in the story came when the young man came to his senses and said that he was a sinner. He came back home, not to ask if he could be a son again or even a slave, because there still was some kind of tie to the family being even a slave. But he asked to be a paid servant who had no status or security, only day-to-day existence.  He knew that he was a sinner, so he confessed and was repentant.

The father saw the son coming and rushed out to meet his repentant son. His father put a robe of honor on his son, a ring that gave him unlimited buying power, and shoes (a slave or hired servant had no shoes). A feast was ordered so that all might rejoice in that a sinner was lost but now was found, or as the father put it, “My son was dead, but now he is alive.” We must never forget that the love of God can defeat even the deliberate rebellion of the heart.

 

Application

The first reading shows all men that we are not to under-estimate the ability of God.  The second reading reveals that a Christian is not reformed or rehabilitated but is a brand-new creation of almighty God.  The Gospel says the Pharisees believed in destroying the sinner, but Jesus believed in saving the sinner.

This week let people around you see Christ-like actions, not Pharisee-type actions. Show others by your mercy, by your ability to listen, by your not joining in the gossip, and by showing joy when someone apologizes for something they have done wrong. Jesus believed that love will conquer all forms of evil, and your actions will prove to the “people of the land” that he is right.  Jesus loved and saved, and you are called to do no less.

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 EXODUS 3:1-8, 13-15 FIRST READING

(“This is what you are to tell the Israelites: I Am sent me to you.”)

1. What was Moses doing, where did he arrive, and what was it called? Exodus 3:1

 

2. How did an angel of the Lord appear to Moses, at what was he surprised, and what did he decide to do? Exodus 3:2-3

 

3. Approximately how old was Moses when the angel appeared to him? Acts 7:23, 30

 

4. What did God do and say when Moses came near the bush? Exodus 3:4-6

 

5. What did Jacob say was a gateway to heaven? Genesis 28:17

 

6. What was Moses afraid to do? Exodus 3:6

 

7. What did the Lord say he has witnessed, what does he know, and what has he come down to do?  Exodus 3:7-8

 

8. What are we to do to those who are being dragged to death? Proverbs 24:11

 

Personal  –  As the Lord has rescued his people from slavery and death, how have you continued to be his hands and feet and rescued those who have been programmed for abortion?  What can you do at the abortion mills to make his presence known?

 

9. What did Moses say and ask God, and what did God say is his name? Exodus 3:13-14

 

10. What did God tell Moses to say to the Israelites? Exodus 3:15

 

11. How long does God’s name endure, and what is his title? Psalm 135:13

 

12. Who will enter the kingdom of heaven? Matthew 7:21

 

Personal – What do you call the One who has sent you, and what has he sent you to do?

 

 

THIRD DAY READ 1 CORINTHIANS 10:1-6, 10-12 SECOND READING

(“Therefore, whoever thinks he is standing secure, should take care not to fall.”)

1. Of what does Paul not want the brothers to be unaware? 1 Corinthians 10:1-2

 

2. Into who and what have you been baptized? Romans 6:3

 

3. From what did they all eat and drink, from what kind of a rock did they drink, and who was the rock? 1 Cor. 10:3-4

 

4. What spiritual food did he give our ancestors, and what spiritual food does he give us? John 6:31, 6:35

 

5. Why were our ancestors struck down? 1 Corinthians 10:5-6 and Hebrews 3:17

 

6. What did the Lord do to those who did not believe? Jude 5

 

7. What should we not do as some of our ancestors have done? 1 Corinthians 10:10

 

8. Why have these things been written down, and of what should you be careful? 1 Corinthians 10:11-12

 

9. Why do you not become haughty, and how should you stand? Romans 11:20

 

Personal – What attitudes that are not pleasing to God have been passed on to you by your ancestors? How can you or how have you overcome them?   

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 13:1-9 GOSPEL

(“If you do not repent, you will all perish as they did.”)

1. What did some people tell Jesus, and what was his reply? Luke 13:1-2

 

2. What did Jesus say will happen if you do not repent? Luke 13:3

 

3. What does Jesus say about the eighteen people who were killed when the tower at Saloam fell on them, and what does he repeat? Luke 13:4-5

 

4. If you do not believe Jesus is what, what will happen to you? John 8:24

 

5. Of what are you to repent, and what will you receive? Acts 2:38

 

6. What did Jesus tell the people, and what was planted in the man’s orchard? Luke 13:6

 

7. What did the man say to the gardener? Luke 13:7

 

8. What did Jesus do to the fig tree, and what did he tell his disciples? Matthew 21:19-21

 

9. What will happen to every tree that does not bear good fruit? Matthew 3:10

 

10. What did the gardener tell the man he would do in hopes it would bear fruit in the future, and what did he say to do if it did not bear fruit? Luke 13:8-9

 

Personal –  Repent means to change. How has your life changed since you have been studied God’s Word, and what fruit is evident from this change?

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 103:1-4, 6-8, 11

(“Merciful and gracious is the Lord, slow to anger and abounding in kindness.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 103:1-4, 6-8, 11.

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

EXODUS 3:1-8, 13-15

In today’s reading we are shown the startling contrast between Moses’ life as an Egyptian prince and his life as an obscure shepherd.  As a prince, he had everything done for him, and as the son of an Egyptian princess, he became very famous and very popular.  As a shepherd he experienced hard work, little recognition and much loneliness. He was now holding the very job he had been taught to despise. He lived in the hills unknown and as a foreigner. This must have been an incredibly humbling experience for Moses, but God in his infinite wisdom was preparing Moses for leadership.  Moses could not see this yet, but God was getting him ready to free Israel.

God spoke to Moses from an unexpected source: a burning bush. When Moses saw it, he went to investigate. God often uses unexpected sources when working in our lives.  You can be open to investigate as God speaks through his people. He might speak to your spouse, parents, friend, relative, or anyone. You need to investigate and be open as Moses was open to God’s use of people or experiences.

Be ready for God’s surprises. He may have guidance for you that can come when you are ready to listen to a “burning bush.” God told Moses to take off his shoes because he was standing on holy ground. Moses immediately obeyed and covered his face as well. Taking off his shoes was an act of reverence and conveying to God his own unworthiness. God is our friend, but he is first and foremost our sovereign Lord. When you worship God, do you approach him casually or as though you were an invited guest before a king.

 

1 CORINTHIANS 10:1-6, 10-12

Today’s reading is a powerful example of what happens to a person, a people, or a nation when over confidence and lack of discipline bring about a great spiritual immaturity. This reading encourages us to remember our own Baptism and how we have been blessed to have God within us.  Like the people in today’s reading, we too have been guided through many raging storms and have been led through to safety by the love and power of God. They followed a cloud by day and fire by night.

We have Christ within us personally. We can have instant access to him if we so desire. The world today, as the Egyptians tried to do to the Israelites, is trying to drive us into the sea of despair and destruction.  Because we are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), we can call upon the power of the Holy Spirit within us (1 John 4:4) and calm the storms that rage in different times of our lives.

We need to remember, just as the Israelites needed to remember, that unless we continue to be people of prayer, worship, and doers of God’s Holy Word, we will be rebellious, and we will die in our wilderness too.  The pressures of today’s world makes it easy to forget the lessons of the past, but the daily reading of Scripture will be a powerful reminder of how God wants us to really live. We do not need to make the same mistakes as the people in today’s reading. We have been given the tremendous gift of free will.  Our God is a God of love, and we have within us the power of the Holy Spirit to help us choose to love.

 

LUKE 13:1-9

Today’s Gospel is a call to repentance. Being killed or staying alive are not measures of righteousness in themselves. Everyone will die at some time; that is part of being human. But not everyone needs to stay dead. Jesus promises all of us that if we believe in him, we will not perish, but instead we will have eternal life (John 3:16).

There are many people in our communities, and even in our families, who are like the fig tree in today’s reading. They are being nurtured through life, and they are not producing any fruit. They refuse to listen on how to bear good fruit, and finally, many of them die or are cut down. We need to really hear what is being said in today’s Gospel because we are like that tree and we need to repent. We need to be watered and re-cultivated or we will be ripped out and thrown away. Jesus died for us; he has left his Spirit to help us grow.

Our church embraces us with the teachings of Christ, the sacraments, Holy Scripture, fellowship; all of this to help us bear the fruits of love. We are bearers of a wonderful kind of life-giving fruit. They will know who we are when they see and taste our fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  This is the kind of fruit we were meant to bear.

Jesus is constantly pleading to save your tree of life within you. Listen to him today. Let him open your roots and root out all the rotten growth through the sacrament of reconciliation. Let Jesus love you through prayer and his Holy Word, and spend time just listening to him.  Let him make you his delight once again.

 

Application

The first reading tells how Moses saw the burning bush and investigates just as we should investigate.  In the second reading we see our baptism is constantly being experienced throughout our lives.  The Gospel says a Christian is born to never die, but to live forever.

This week, like Moses, look and listen to God speak. He may be speaking through someone in your family. Moses heard him in a “burning bush.”  Your baptism made you a temple of the Holy Spirit, and your language reflects your attitude of what you think is inside your temple. Let those around you hear only words that are honorable and acceptable in the presence of a king. What kind of fruit do you bear?  Ask those closest to you what kind of fruit they see in you?  This week, spend time in pruning, nurturing, and watering your tree of life, and your fruit will feed your family.

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 GENESIS 15:5-12, 17-18 FIRST READING

(“I am the Lord who brought you from Ur…”)

1. The Lord took Abram outside and said what to him? Genesis 15:5

 

2. In whom did Abram put his faith, and as what was it credited? Genesis 15:6

 

3. The righteousness Paul possesses comes from what? Philippians 3:9

 

4. Read the following scriptures and tell how they apply to you. Romans 4:3, 9, 22, Galatians 3:6, and James 2:23

 

5. From where did Abram come? Genesis 15:7

 

6. What question did Abram put to the Lord? Genesis 15:8

 

7. What did the Lord tell Abram to do and what swooped down on the carcasses? Genesis 15:9-11

 

8. What did Abram do when the birds of prey came? Genesis 15:11

 

9. What happened to Abram as the sun was about to set? Genesis 15:12

 

10. What are similar ways symbolizing the presence of God in these scriptures? Exodus 19:17-19, Acts 2:3-4

 

11. What did the Lord do with Abraham on that occasion? Genesis 15:18

 

12. In whom did the fulfillment of this covenant take place? Joshua 1:1-9

 

Personal – What is your relationship with God right now? How do you show that you believe the promises God has made in the Bible? What are some of the promises of God, and the covenants he has made with his people? Reflect on this and talk to God about it.

 

 

THIRD DAY READ PHILIPPIANS 3:17-4:1 SECOND READING

(“…continue, my dear ones, to stand firm in the Lord.”)

1. Who are we to imitate, and who are we to take as a guide? Philippians 1:1 and 3:17

 

2. How do many conduct themselves and what will happen to them? Philippians 3:18-19

 

3. What is their god and their glory, and with what do they occupy their mind? Philippians 3:19

 

4. Where do we have our citizenship, and for what do we wait? Philippians 3:20

 

5. What will the Lord do to our bodies? Philippians 3:21

 

6. According to what does he remake our bodies, and for what reason? Philippians 3:21

 

7. Who does Paul love? Philippians 4:1

 

8. Who does Jesus say his brothers are? Matthew 12:46-50

 

9. What does Paul tell his brothers? Philippians 4:1

 

Personal – How much time do you spend taking care of your body? Are you looking forward to the Lord remaking this body? How can you “stand firm,” as Paul tells us to do?

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 9:28-36 GOSPEL

(“This is my Son, my Chosen One. Listen to him.”)

1. What did Jesus say eight days before he took Peter, John and James up onto a mountain to pray? Luke 9:27

 

2. On what other occasions were Peter, John and James with Jesus? Luke 8:51-52 and Mark 14:32-33

 

3. What did they go up on the mountain to do? Luke 9:28

 

4. What happened to Jesus’ face and clothes as he prayed? Luke 9:29

 

5. Who were suddenly conversing with Jesus? Luke 9:30

 

6. How did they appear, and about what did they speak? Luke 9:31

 

7. Upon awakening, what happened to Peter and those with him? Luke 9:32

 

Personal – How do you think you would react if while in prayer you fell asleep and awoke seeing Jesus, Moses and Elijah? Do you think this is possible?

 

8. When the men were leaving, what did Peter say to Jesus? Luke 9:33

 

9. While Peter was speaking, what overshadowed them? What was the reaction of the disciples? Luke 9:34

 

10. What came from the cloud and what was said? Luke 9:35

 

11. Who was standing there when the voice fell silent, and did the disciples tell anyone about this at that time? Luke 9:36

 

Personal – In what ways have you listened to Jesus this past week? Do you speak to him and then listen to what he has to say through his Word?  What is it that God wants to do in you?  Are you allowing God to transform you?  As you do this you too will be transformed as it says in 2 Corinthians 3:18.

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 27:1, 7-9, 13-14

(“Wait for the Lord, take courage;”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 27:1, 7-9, 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

GENESIS 15:5-12, 17-18

Abram was not promised wealth or fame, he already had that, but God promised that Abram’s descendants would be too numerous to count. Abram was an old man with no heirs to his own fame and fortune and we see God promising to change all that. Abram believes with all his heart, mind and soul. Abram’s faith was a strong response to the living presence and power of God in his life and his faith had made him right with God.

We too can have a right relationship with God by trusting him with our lives. Our outward actions, church attendance, prayer, good deeds, and even reading Sacred Scripture, by themselves, will not make us right with God. A right relationship is based on faith. We are confident that God is who he says he is, and does what he says he will do. Righteous actions will follow a strong faith naturally as a by-product.

We have read of Abram’s mistakes and know that he was not perfect. Though human and sinful, Abram believed and trusted in God. It was faith and not perfection that made Abram righteous in God’s eyes. This same principle applies to us. Our first response must be to believe in God and to trust in him completely.  God’s covenant with Abram was serious business. It represented an incredible promise from God and a huge responsibility from Abram. To confirm his promises to Abram, God gave him a sign, the smoking fire pot and the flaming torch. God confirmed his promise to you and to me when he gave us Jesus Christ, our personal Lord and Savior.

 

PHILIPPIANS 3:17-4:1

Paul challenges the Philippians to use him as a role model in their attempt to live like Christ. He did not mean that they should just copy him as if he were perfect, but they should focus on their lives being like Christ’s life. There was no written Gospel yet, so Paul could not tell them to read the bible to see what Christ was like. Paul therefore urged the people to follow his example as a personal testimony to his character.

We need to ask ourselves about what kind of follower would a new Christian become if he or she imitated us. There is an old saying that is pretty powerful, and it goes like this: “To some people, the only bible that they will ever read will be you.” Paul was very strong in his comment about the self-indulgent Christians. These are people who claim to be Christian, but do not live up to the model of being a servant of Christ. There is very little sacrifice in their attitude or actions. They satisfy their own desires before even thinking about the needs of others.

Freedom in Christ does not mean freedom to be selfish, it means the opportunity to serve. We can only become true servants of the Lord when we die to ourselves. This means putting others first, and it means that we all are called to “walk the walk, as well as, talk the talk.” Paul was very clear in stating that the bodies we receive when we as Christians are raised from the dead will be like Christ’s resurrected body.

Paul is encouraging his listeners to give thanks, and we might all give thanks today, because when Christ returns to take us into his eternal kingdom, we will be glorified and made completely perfect. Paul closes the reading by telling his listeners that he longs to see his brothers and sisters in the Lord. He longs to renew old friendships and he urges them to stay true to the Lord.

Today that plea is extremely important and we are called to hold true to the Lord. The attack on us as Christians is enormous and only by being true to Jesus Christ and staying close in Christian fellowship through his Holy Word, church and sacraments can we be victorious with him.

 

LUKE 9:28-36

Jesus took Peter, James and John to the top of the mountain to pray together to his heavenly father. He took them there to show them who he really was, not just a great prophet, but God’s only Begotten Son. He just recently told them that they would not die before they had seen the kingdom of God (Luke 9:27). He was referring to the transfiguration. Jesus’ listeners were not going to have to wait for another future Messiah. He was telling them the kingdom was among them and would soon come in power through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Moses, representing the Law, and Elijah, representing the prophets, appeared with Jesus and God’s voice singled out Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah with divine authority. Jesus would fulfill both the law and the prophets because he was the summation of it all. The brightness of Jesus’ face was being seen for the first time by the apostles. They were really seeing him for whom he really was. Moses saw the dazzling brightness in the clouds on the mountaintop and in the burning bush on the desert floor, but while he was alive, he never saw the brightness that radiated from the face of Christ on that mountaintop. The transfiguration or change was in the apostles because they were seeing Jesus in a totally new way.

Have you experienced the miracle of the transfiguration in your life?  Have you asked Christ to come in and take up residence in your heart?  He will gladly abide in you if you will abide in him (John 15:7). Jesus stands knocking on the door to our heart, and he will wait as long as it takes. Open that door of your heart today and look into the radiance and dazzling brightness of his face. He is waiting to share his transfiguration with you, and he wants you to witness to others the miracle of his love and forgiveness.

The apostles did not want to leave that mountain because the change was fantastic, and they did not want to take a chance of losing the excitement of the moment. Jesus is the chosen one and in him is all power and glory. He wants the apostles to come off that mountain and go forth and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). Jesus is giving all of us the same command, and that is to leave the safety of the mountaintop, and go down into the dark, cold valleys and lead our children to safety (Matthew 28:20). And remember, whatever you do to the least of my children, you do unto me (Matthew 25:31-46.)

 

Application

The first reading shows faith is the response to the living presence and power of God in our life. The second reading challenges faith-filled Christians to be Christ-like role models. The Gospel reveals that conversion to Christ brings upon us a complete transfiguration.

This week, let others see in you a transfiguration. Show that Christ resides within you by your actions. Make a commitment to serve joyfully those around you, and others will notice the radiance and dazzling brightness that comes from you. You will bring more people to Christ by the good fruit you bear. Gal.5:22-23

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 DEUTERONOMY 26:4-10 FIRST READING

(“He brought us out of Egypt with his strong hand and outstretched arm.”)

1. Who shall take the basket out of your hands, and what will he do with it? Deuteronomy 26:4

 

2. In verse 5 of Deuteronomy 26, who is speaking? Deuteronomy 1:1

 

3. Who is the wandering Aramean, and where did he go? Genesis 46:6

 

4. How did the wandering Aramean live, and what did he become? Deuteronomy 26:5

 

5. How did the Egyptians treat the Israelites, and to whom did they cry out? Deuteronomy 26:6-7

 

6. What do the following verses say about oppression?

A.  Isaiah 53:8

B.  Isaiah 58:9

 

Personal –  In what way have you been maltreated and oppressed? How have you dealt with it?

 

7. What two senses did the Lord use in Deuteronomy 26:7?

 

8. In what way did the Lord answer their cry? Deuteronomy 26:8

 

9. What was the land like to which the Lord brought them to? Deuteronomy 26:9

 

10. What did Moses do in response to what the Lord did for him? Deuteronomy 26:10

 

11. What should we do in response to what he has done for us? List the two things in verse 10 of Deuteronomy 26.

 

Personal – What has God personally done for you in the past? From what you have earned or produced financially, in what way have you responded to what God has done for you?  Have you bowed down in thanksgiving and reverence to the Lord for all he has done for you?

 

 

THIRD DAY READ ROMANS 10:8-13 SECOND READING

(“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”)

1. What is near you, on your lips, and in your heart, and what does Paul say is preached? Romans 10:8

 

2. What or who is the Word? John 1:1, 14

 

3. With what do you confess, and what do you confess? Romans 10:9

 

4. Who gives you the ability to confess Jesus is Lord? 1 Corinthians 12:3

 

5. With what do you believe and what will happen to you if you do this?  Romans 10:9

 

6. What leads to justification, and what leads to salvation?  Romans 10:10

 

7. What does Scripture say in Romans 10:11, Romans 9:33, and Isaiah 28:16?

 

Personal – There are two requirements to being justified and saved. In what way have you fulfilled these requirements?

 

8. To whom is God rich in mercy?  Romans 10:12

 

9. What must you do to receive God’s mercy? Romans 10:12

 

10. Who will be saved?  Romans 10:13, Acts 2:21

 

Personal – To whom and in what way have you spoken to others of what Jesus has done for you?  Take a few minutes now and reflect on Jesus, who he is, and what he has done.

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 4:1-13 GOSPEL

(“You shall worship the Lord, your God, and him alone shall you serve.”)

1. What was Jesus full of, and who conducted him into the desert? Luke 4:1

 

2. What had previously taken place in the Jordan River? Luke 3:21

 

3. How long was he in the desert, who tempted him, and what did he eat while there? Luke 4:2

 

4. What did the devil say to him? Luke 4:3

 

5. What one word in verse 3 denotes the devil’s unbelief in him?

 

6. What was Jesus’ response, and besides bread, what does Matthew 4:4 say man shall live on? Luke 4:4

 

7. What did the devil show Jesus, and what did the devil say to him? Luke 4:5-6

 

8. Deuteronomy 26:10 tells us to bow down in the presence of the Lord for all he has done for us. What is the devil saying in Luke 4:7?

 

9. What was Jesus’ reply to him? Luke 4:8

 

10. Then what did the devil do and say to Jesus, and what small word in verse 9 showed the devil’s unbelief?

 

11. From what did the devil quote? Psalm 91:11

 

12. What did Jesus say to the devil, and when the devil had finished all the tempting, what did he do? Luke 4:12 and Deuteronomy 6:16

 

Personal –  In which of the following ways have you been tempted by Satan:   When you are hungry – When you feel inferior – When things are not going the way you would like them to go?  In what practical way can you apply this lesson to your life this week? Share with someone.

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 91:1-2, 10-15

(“My refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 91:1-2, 10-15.

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

DEUTERONOMY 26:4-10

Today’s reading makes the purpose of tithing very clear: to put God first in our lives. We are called to give God the first and best of what we earn. This means that we give from the heart, and we are to give joyously. What we do with our money shows what we value most. Giving the first part of our paycheck to God, rather than what is left after taxes and bills, focuses our attention on him.  A habit of regular tithing can keep God at the top of our priority list and give us a proper perspective on everything else we have.

The Bible and the Christian Church have always supported an organized system of caring for the poor. God told his people then, and he tells us today, to use our tithe for the helpless and poor. These regulations were designed to prevent the country from sinking under crushing poverty and oppression.

We see in today’s reading that it was everyone’s responsibility to care for the less fortunate and that responsibility still falls upon the body of believers in our church. In the Israelite tradition, each person was required to recite the history of God’s dealings with his people. We need to reflect on the history of God’s dealings with Christians throughout the ages.

What is the history of your relationship with God? Can you specifically recall what God has done for you?  Take some time alone to reflect on the many gifts that God has given you. This will help you to see how all of your gifts and talents really come from God. That is why we can joyously tithe to God, because he has showered us with so much treasure. Remember, where your treasure is, your heart is.

 

ROMANS 10:8-13

A tremendously powerful statement is made when we say salvation that comes from trusting Christ is already within easy reach of us.  In fact, it is as near as our own hearts and mouths. People all through the ages have looked for God through dramatic experiences.  Some people have traveled all across the world to meet a spiritual leader.

Today’s Scripture reading tells us that God’s salvation is right in front of us. He will come to us wherever we are and whenever we call (John 6:37). All we need to do is to respond and accept his incredible gift of salvation. Today many people think that to become a Christian and be the recipient of the gift of salvation is a complicated process, but it is not. If we truly believe in our hearts and this belief is shown in the changes that take place in our lives and confess that Jesus is the Lord of our lives, then we too will be saved.

Paul is not saying that Christians will be free of all disappointments. There will be many times when people let us down and when circumstances take a turn for the worse. What Paul is really saying is that Jesus Christ will never let us down and that everyone who believes in him will be saved. Today there are some people who say they believe, but there is no fruit of the Holy Spirit visible in their lives. We validate what comes out of our mouths by the way we live our lives. When we really believe without hearts and confess that Jesus is really the Lord of our life, then others will see in us the fruits of love, peace, joy, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

 

LUKE 4:1-13

Temptations often come after a high point in our spiritual lives or ministries.  Sometimes we feel that if the Holy Spirit leads us, it will always be “beside the still waters” (Psalm 23:2). But that is not necessarily true. He led Jesus into the desert and allowed him to experience a long and difficult time of testing.

The Holy Spirit can and does lead us into difficult situations in the desert experiences of our own lives. When facing these trials, first make sure you have not brought them on yourself through sin or foolish choices. If you find no sin to confess or behavior to change, then ask God to strengthen you for your test. Like Jesus did, you are also to follow faithfully where the Holy Spirit leads. We must always remember that Satan is a real being and his temptation of Eve in the Garden and of Jesus in the wilderness is not to be dismissed as just a symbol or an idea. We need to be on our guard in times of victory, just as in times of discouragement. Satan constantly fights against God and those who follow and obey him. We can be assured that knowing and obeying God’s Word is a very effective weapon against temptation.

Scripture clearly points out that God’s Holy Word is a very powerful offensive weapon that is provided in the Christian’s armor (Ephesians 6:17). Knowing Scripture is not enough to defeat Satan because he also knows Scripture. We must have faith in God’s promise that he loves us so much that he sent his only begotten Son into the world to die just for us. Jesus tells us that he is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6), and Satan cannot stand up to that power.

 

Application

The first reading shows that where your treasure is, your heart is.  In the second reading, faith is belief in the giver more than in the gift. In the Gospel, God’s love is far more powerful than Satan’s fear.

This week show your family the power that comes from God when you set him in first place in your life.  Let your family see that you joyously tithe and encourage them to give back to God some of the fruits that they enjoy. The simple act of your joyful caring for the helpless with your tithe will be a tremendous witness to your children and your children’s children.

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 SIRACH 27:4-7 FIRST READING

(“…a man’s speech discloses the bent of his mind.”)

1. What happens when you shake a sieve, and when does a man’s faults appear? Sirach 27:4

 

2. From what do we pray to be cleansed, and with what do we ask the Lord to find favor? Psalm 19:13, 15

 

3. As the test of what the potter molds is in the furnace, where is the test of the man? Sirach 27:5

 

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

 

5. What does the fruit of the tree show, and what does a man’s speech disclose? Sirach 27:6

 

6. What is the fruit of the Holy Spirit? Galatians 5:22-23

 

7. How is a tree known, what does the mouth speak from, and what will happen on the day of judgment? Matthew 12:33-37

 

8. What should you not do before a man speaks, and for what reason? Sirach 27:7

 

9. What defiles a person? Matthew 15:11

 

10. How are you to set an example for those who believe? 1 Timothy 4:12

 

Personal – Look at yesterday and evaluate your speech. What effect did your speech have on those around you?  How can you improve your speech?

 

 

THIRD DAY READ 1 CORINTHIANS 15:54-58 SECOND READING

(“The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.”)

1. With what will this which is corruptible, and mortal clothe itself? 1 Corinthians 15:54

 

2. In what do the children share, and what did Jesus’ death destroy? Hebrews 2:14-15

 

3. What words of scripture have come true? 1 Cor. 15:54-55

 

4. What is the sting of death and what is the power of sin?  1 Corinthians 15:56

 

5. What does the law produce and where there is no law what happens? Romans 4:15

 

6. How did you come to know sin, and how did you know what it means to covet? Romans 7:7

 

7. For what are we to be thankful to God?  1 Corinthians 15:57

 

8. Where does God always lead us, and what does he manifest through us? 2 Corinthians 2:14

 

9. How should we be in our work for the Lord, and what are we to know? 1 Corinthians 15:58

 

10. What will not happen to those blessed by the Lord? Isaiah 65:23

 

Personal – How have you experienced death and victory in your life? What does the phrase “to work for the Lord” mean to you?

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 6:39-45 GOSPEL

(“…for from the fullness of the heart the mouth speaks.”)

1. What did Jesus tell the people, what did he say about a blind person, and to whom is a disciple not superior? Luke 6:39-40

 

2. Who will a disciple be like when fully trained? Luke 6:40

 

3. What did Jesus say after he washed the feet of his disciples? John 13:15-16

 

4. What do you notice in your brother’s eye, and what do you not notice in your eye? What can you not say to your brother? Luke 6:41-42

 

5. What did Jesus call them, and what did he tell them to do? Luke 6:42

 

6. What do the hypocrites do with their lips, and where are their hearts? Matthew 15:7-8

 

Personal –  In what areas have you been correcting or trying to help others? Examine yourself in that same area and see whether you need to remove the plank from your eye.

 

7. What does a good tree not bear, and what does a rotten tree bear? Luke 6:43

 

8. How is every tree known and what do people not do? Luke 6:44

 

9. What does a good person produce, and from where does it come? What does an evil person produce, and from where does it come?  Luke 6:45

 

10. From what does the mouth speak? Luke 6:45

 

11. What are you to guard and for what reason?  What are you to put away? Proverbs 4:23-24

 

Personal – Memorize Psalm 141:3. Use this psalm on a daily basis to see whether you have some great changes come from within your heart.

 

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 92:2-3, 13-14, 15-16

(“The just man shall flourish like the palm tree.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 92:2-3, 13-14, 15-16.

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

SIRACH 27:4-7

In today’s reading we can see both the negative and positive power of the spoken word.  Many times, Scripture has shown us how irresponsible words of speech have affected the spiritual lives of many. It is very important for us to always remember that what we say and what we do not say can have enormous power in many situations.

Proper speech is not only saying the right words at the right time but controlling our desire to say what is not needed to be said and something we should not have said at all. Unfortunately, examples of wrongly using the tongue are several, such as gossiping, putting others down, bragging, manipulating, false teachings, exaggerating, complaining, flattering, and lying. Before we speak, we need to ask ourselves: is it true, is it necessary, and is it kind?

We show others what we are really made of and what is in our hearts by the way we speak. Scripture tells us that the damage the tongue can do to the human being is like comparing the tongue to a raging forest fire.  The tongue’s wickedness has its source in hell itself. Satan uses a person’s speech to divide people and pit them against one another. A conversation that deals with joy and truth will be a conversation between joyful and truly free people. A person does not want to be flattered and does not need to be praised for his deeds either. A person wants to be respected and to be a product of a loving God, family and society. He can only be this when he asks what God wants of him, rather than what does God have for him.

Remember, a few words spoken in anger can destroy a relationship that took years to build.  Remember, we are fighting in our own power and strength.  The Holy Spirit will give us increasing power to monitor and control what we say.  As Christians, we are not perfect; but we should never stop growing, and this means letting our speech disclose the love of God that overflows our hearts.

 

1 CORINTHIANS 15:54-58

In today’s passage, Paul is developing the idea that a man always needs to be changed to enter into a higher level of life. He insists that before we can enter the kingdom of God we must be changed. To believe in Christ is to not fear any change, including the one that haunts most men – death.  Most people fear death because it is unknown to them. But to man, it comes to many, many more from the sense of sin. The sense of sin comes from being under the law, and that is exactly why Jesus came.

Jesus came to tell us that God is not law, but love, and that the center of God’s being is not legalism, but grace. When we die, we go out, not to a judge, but to a father who awaits his children coming home.  Because of that, Jesus gave us the victory over death, and its fear is driven out in the wonder of God’s love.  True love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment (1 John 4:18). Death is no longer a source of fear, because Christ overcame it, and one day we will overcome it too.

Paul tells us that because of the resurrection we are to be ready and alert and see that nothing we do is wasted. Sometimes we hesitate to step out and do something beautiful for God because we do not think it is important enough or because we probably will not see any results of our efforts. We need to remember that everything we do for God is important, and the effect will last into eternal life. Do the good that you have the opportunity to do, knowing that your work will have long-term results.

Paul has told us very strongly something that we all need to hear very much today. God has won his victory over death and sin because they were defeated by Christ.  By his resurrection, Christ has shown us that death and sin are not the last word, but only lead to life. He reminded the Corinthians then, and he reminds us today, that our “labor is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58).

 

LUKE 6:39-45

Today’s Gospel speaks to us about criticizing others. All through the ages, no matter what type of situation may have been present, almost everyone would agree that if you are critical, rather than compassionate, you will also receive criticism. If you treat others generously, gracefully, and compassionately, these qualities will come back to you in full measure.

We are called to love others, not to judge them. Jesus is telling the people to make sure that they are following the right teachers and leaders. He tells them, and us, to look for leaders who will show us what faith is as well as teach us what faith is. Jesus strongly states that we should not be so intent on watching what the other person is doing wrong and overlook our own spiritual walk with God. He encourages us to look for guidance from those who love in accordance with his Holy Word and teachings of his church.  Jesus does not mean we should ignore wrong doings, but we are not to become so critical of others that we begin to become one of God’s frozen people instead of one of his chosen people.

We often rationalize our own sins by pointing out the same mistakes in others.  We need to be able to address the term “hypocrite” and realize that the “hypocrite” is exactly the ones for whom Christ came and died. Many people do not go to church because that is where the hypocrites go on Sunday. Well, if that is where the hypocrites are, then you will certainly find Jesus there too. He came for the sick, and all sinners are sick. Jesus would be the first one to tell you that he wants his church to be a hospital for sinners and not just a haven for saints.  Remember, it is not hypocrisy to be weak in faith, but it is hypocrisy to think that we are spiritually closer to God than someone else. What is in our hearts will come out in our speech and behavior.

 

Application

The first reading shows us that when our speech is motivated by God, it is full of mercy.  The second reading reveals that God is not the law, but God is love.  The Gospel tells us the church is a hospital for sinners, not just a haven for saints.

This week let your heart be revealed to your family and friends by what you speak and how you act.  A loving word by you can affirm, build up, strengthen and open a broken spirit in almost everyone.  It is very important for you to listen to the people around you and ask the Lord to discern what you need to do to correct your decision.  Let your family and friends really get what they see in you, and their vision be all that is of the Lord.