THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

by Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

 

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

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

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

 

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

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

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY       READ 1 SAMUEL 16:1, 6‑7, 10‑13   FIRST READING

(“In the presence of the Lord God they anointed David king of Israel.”)

1. To whom did the Lord speak and who was Samuel? 1 Samuel 16:1, 1 Sam 1:19-22

 

2. Whom did the Lord say he has rejected as king of Israel, where was the Lord sending Samuel, and who has been chosen and from whom has he been chosen? 1 Sam 16:1

 

3. When they came, Samuel looked at whom, and what were his thoughts and who was Eliab?  1 Sam 16:6, 1 Sam 17:13

 

4. What did the Lord say to Samuel; according to what does man see things and into what does God look?   1 Sam 16:7

 

5. How many sons did Jesse present to Samuel, and how many did he have?  1 Samuel 16:10, 1 Samuel 17:12

 

6. What did Samuel tell Jesse about the seven sons; what did Samuel ask Jesse, and what did he reply?   1 Sam 16:10-11

 

7. What was the youngest son doing when Jesse sent for him? 1 Samuel 16:11

 

8. When Jesse sent for him and he came, what was his appearance, and what did the Lord say? 1 Samuel 16:12

 

9. What did Samuel do? 1 Samuel 16:13

 

10. When he was anointed with the oil, what rushed upon him? 1 Sam 16:13

 

Personal ‑ Have you been anointed by the Lord for a special task? At baptism the Spirit came upon you. How have you released the Spirit within you?

 

 

THIRD DAY             READ EPHESIANS 5:8‑14       SECOND READING

(“Rise from the dead and Christ will shine on you.”)

1. What are we in the Lord, and how must we live? Ephesians 5:8

 

2. What does light produce? Ephesians 5:9

 

3. Fill in the following blanks: “Be ____________ in your ________________ of what ___________ the Lord.” Eph.   5:10

 

4. In what must we not take part, and what must we do with them?   Ephesians 5:11

 

5. What happens when we mention the things people do in secret?   Ephesians 5:12

 

6. What happens to such deeds that are condemned? Eph 5:13

 

7. That is why we read what? Ephesians 5:14, Isaiah 60:1

 

Personal ‑ We are commanded not to take part in vain deeds done in secret. Examine your conscience. Are you holding on to anything done in secret that was not right? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal this and to bring it into the light. Remember, we are called to live as children of the light.

 

 

 

FOURTH DAY              READ JOHN 9:1‑41                 GOSPEL

(“The blind man went off and washed himself and came away with his sight restored.”)

1. As Jesus walked along, what did he see and what did the disciples ask him?   John 9:1-2

 

2. Jesus replied that it was neither the man’s sin nor the parents sin that caused the man to be born blind; rather for what purpose and what did he refer to himself?   John 9:3-5

 

3. What did Jesus do, what did he tell the man to do, and what was the result?   John 9:6-7

 

Personal‑ When the Lord speaks to you and tells you to do some­thing, are you always obedient, even if it doesn’t seem practical to you? Think about this.

 

4. What did the neighbors and the people who had been accustomed to seeing him beg begin to ask, what was the confusion among them, and what did the man say? John 9:8-9

 

5. As the people questioned the man born blind, what did he answer, what did they do next, and when did this occur? John 12-14

 

6. What was the confusion between them; when the Pharisees addressed the blind man, what did they ask him and what did he answer? John 9:15-17

 

7. What did the Jews refuse to believe, and whom did they summon? John 9:18

 

8. What did the Jews ask the man’s parents, what was their response, and why were they afraid of the Jews? John 9:19-22

 

9. The second time the Jews summoned the man who had been born blind, what did they say to him; what was his answer, and whose disciples did they say they were?   John 9:24-30

 

10. To whom did they say God listens? John 9:31

 

11. What was unheard of and what was their doubt? John 9:32-33

 

12. Of what did they accuse the man who had been born blind, and what did they do to him; and when Jesus heard of his expulsion, what did he do, and ask? John 9:34-35

 

13. What was his answer; what did Jesus say to him, what was the man’s answer, and what did he do?   John 9:36-38

 

14. What did Jesus say; how did the Pharisees react to this and what was Jesus’ reply?   John 9:39-41

 

Personal ‑ In what way have your eyes been opened to your personal knowledge of Jesus as the Son of the living God? In what way have you bowed down and worshiped and praised God for his great gift to you? Take time to thank and worship him right now where you are.

 

 

FIFTH DAY               READ PSALM 23:1‑6

(“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 23:1-6.

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

1 SAMUEL 16:1, 6‑7, 10‑13

The Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or the height of his stature. The Lord sees not as man sees; man looks on outward appearances, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7). Saul was a tall and handsome king, and Samuel may have been looking for someone who looked impressive. But God warned Samuel against judging by appearance.

How many times today do we judge others by the way they look? How many people have been refused work or shelter just because they look different? The difference might be in their manner of dress or even the color of their skin. The Lord tells Samuel that God judges by character, not appearance.

God sees others with the heart, not the eyes. He knows what is going on inside, therefore, only he can accurately judge people. We spend a tremendous amount of time maintaining our outward appearance. We should do even more to develop our inner character. We can do this by spending more time alone with the Lord, praying and meditating with him.

We can improve our inner character by reading, studying and living out God’s holy Word. Everyone can see your face, but only you and God know what your heart really looks like. What is the more attractive part of you? It is good for us to reflect that Saul was the first king of Israel, and he was very popular (1030 B.C.); but he offended God and the kingship was taken from him and his descendants. Samuel chose a very simple shepherd boy to become Israel’s next king. He anointed David with olive oil. The anointing signified that they were God’s represen­tatives now invested with a sacred character. They became “God’s Anointed” and were respected by all. The choice of David, the least likely of Jesse’s sons, is a strong lesson of humility for us and helps us see our own limitations.

 

EPHESIANS 5:8‑14

Today’s passage is calling us, not only to be called children of the light, but to live as children of the light. The light of Christ that shines in us will be that light which leads others out of their own darkness into a world of light. The way we live is a direct statement of what it is we believe. The morality of a Christian’s life needs to be reflective of God’s love and mercy. Jesus called on us to be more than he called on us to do in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1‑12).

Your example of what a Christian is will not make someone who is in the darkness even more desolate. Instead, it will be the encouragement that they need to come forth into the healing light of Christ. God is calling for his Christian warriors to do more than to avoid evil pleasures. He is calling them to rebuke and even expose them. Too many times our silence in the middle of a dirty joke, obscene movie, or gutter talk is a sign of approval.

God wants us to take a stand for what is right. You are called to lovingly speak out for what is true and right. Today, many of the evils, such as x‑rated movies, pornography, free sex, drug abuse and the break‑down of morality, have taken place because of the attitude: “Let them do their thing as long as it does not affect me.” This attitude has poisoned many countries, and the result has been anarchy, violence, and the banishment of God. Jesus tells us that he is the light of the world and if we follow him, we will not be stumbling in the darkness (John 8:12).

We need to reflect on today’s passage. Paul wrote this to a group of people living in a very worldly place. He knew that many were being tempted to return to their old lifestyle of sin. His message to them is crystal clear to us, that only by living as children of the Light can we really ever be set totally free (John 8:32).

 

JOHN 9:1‑41

This Gospel story really brings home that “Jesus is the Light of the world.” The Pharisees were opposed to Jesus from the very beginning of his public life. He preached love, mercy and forgiveness; he even ate with the publicans and other sinners considered outcast of society. He was becoming extremely popular because he was not a legalist; rather, he was a compassion­ate lover of people, and the oppressed and broken recognized this and flocked to him. They could see this because they were looking at his heart. They were not blinded like the Pharisees. The Pharisees looked first at the law and then at the power and wealth of the person. They were “legally blind” in the area of love, compassion and justice.

Today’s Gospel reading is a story of faith, love, pride and prejudice. The blind man was born blind, and he didn’t know how or why he was healed, but he knew he could now see. He believed in the man who gave him sight, and he shared his new faith in him.

Jesus’ love was so strong that even though he knew the opposi­tion was waiting to trap him, the desire to make men free was stronger. Jesus not only gave him bodily light (eyesight), but he also gave him the Light of Faith. The Pharisees tried so hard to discredit Jesus and then the man. Their pride and total lack of humility led them to their prejudicial attitude by attributing the miracle to Satan. The Pharisees even went so far as to excommunicate the man from the community.

The question we need to respond to today is: Do we still refuse to see the truths of God’s revelation brought to its fullness in the teachings of Jesus Christ? Are we still blinded by pride and prejudices of culture and habit? Christ is “the Light of the world” to whom the Pharisees and their followers and many people of today shut their eyes. You are being called to be the world’s light, a city glowing in the night for all to see.

Don’t hide your light! Let it shine for all; let your good deeds glow for all to see, so that they will praise your heavenly Father (Matthew 5:14‑16). Remember, it is far better to shine a light than to curse the darkness.

 

 

Application

The readings today really bring out the power of God’s chosen and our response. We see that in the first reading. Paul tells us that we are called to be the Light of the world. We see in the Gospel that many followed a blindness far darker than physical loss of eyesight. Jesus shows us that he heals and makes us lights in a world of darkness.

This week, speak out when you know what is being said is untrue. Don’t go along with the crowd. Be yourself. Don’t let foul talk, sinful actions or lying, dim your light. Respond to the needs of others. Be a beacon of truth, don’t shut your light off from the rest of the world.

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 17:3‑7         FIRST READING

(“God satisfies the thirst of the Israelites whose hearts had become hardened and rebellious.”)

1. What made the people grumble against Moses, and what did they say to him? Exodus 17:3

 

2. To whom did Moses cry out, and what did he say? Exodus 17:4

 

3. Where did the Lord tell Moses to go, whom was he to have with him, and what was he to have in his hand as he went? Exodus 17:5

 

4. What happened when Moses outstretched the staff at the river?      Exodus 14:15‑16, 21‑22

 

5. Where did the Lord say he would be? Exodus 17:6

 

6. What did he tell him to do to the rock, and what would happen?   Exodus 17:6

 

7. What was Moses’ response? Exodus 17:6

 

8. What was the place called where this happened, and why was it called this?   Exodus 17:7

 

9. Before Moses outstretched the staff over the Red Sea, how were the Israelites acting?   Exodus 14:11

 

10. What did they say to test the Lord? Exodus 17:7

 

Personal ‑ When the Israelites were thirsty they complained and went to Moses. Moses went to the Lord. Do you complain and grumble to others about your own situation, or do you humbly go

to God with your request? Do you see yourself complaining and grumbling because you are thirsty? Examine your conscience each day before the Lord. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you your thirst.

 

 

THIRD DAY            READ ROMANS 5:1‑2, 5‑8      SECOND READING

(“Through his Spirit has his grace been poured into our hearts.”)

1. How have we been justified? Romans 5:l , Romans 3:28

 

2. In whom is our faith? Galatians 2:16 , Romans 5:9

 

3. If we have been justified by faith, what are we with God through our Lord Jesus Christ?   Romans 5:l

 

4. Through whom do we gain access by faith to the grace in which we now stand? Romans 5:1‑2

 

5. About what can we boast? Romans 5:2

 

6. In what is our hope? Acts 23:6

 

7. In whom can we find hope? Matthew 12:21

 

8. How will this hope leave us? Romans 5:5

 

9. What has been poured out in our hearts, and how has this been done?   Romans 5:5

 

10. Fill in the following blanks: At the ___________ when we were still _________ Christ died for us __________. Romans 5:6

 

11. What is a rare thing? Romans 5:7

 

 

12. How did God prove his love for us? Romans 5:8, 1 John 4:10

 

 

Personal‑ In what way have you accepted the love of God for you personally through the death of his Son Jesus? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you the great love of the Father for you by sacrificing his beloved Son Jesus at Calvary.

 

 

 

FOURTH DAY              READ JOHN 4:5‑42                 GOSPEL

(“The water that I shall give will turn into a spring of eternal life.”)

1. Where did Jesus’ journey bring him; and what were the Samaritans like, according to the following verses: 2 Kings      17:24‑29, Jeremiah 23:13; Matthew 10:5 and Luke 9:52‑53

 

 

2. What was the plot of land that Jesus entered and what did Jesus do when he got to Jacob’s well? Why did he do it and      what time was it?   John 4:5-6

 

 

3. When the Samaritan woman came to draw water, for what did Jesus ask her?   John 4:7

 

 

4. What three points did the woman bring out and what are we to recall?  John 4:9

 

 

5. What was the woman’s response to Jesus’ reply? What did Jesus say would happen to those who drink the water from the well? John 4:10-13

 

 

6. What did he say would happen to the person who drinks the water he has to give and what was the woman’s response? John 4:14-15

 

 

7. After she asked him for this water, what did Jesus tell her to do and what did he exclaim to her and what did she say he was?   John 4:16-19

 

 

8. Where did she say her ancestors worshiped, where did she claim was the place where they say they ought to worship and where did Jesus say they would worship, and why? John 4:20-22

 

 

9. What two ways will authentic worshipers worship, and what is God?   John 4:23-24

 

 

Personal ‑ Where is your place of worship? Do you spend time each day worshiping God as Spirit and Truth? Do you understand not what you worship, but whom you worship, and why you worship him? Close your eyes and ask the Holy Spirit to teach you how to worship him as Spirit and Truth.

 

 

10. What did the woman say about the Messiah and who did Jesus say he was?   John 4:25-26

 

 

11. What was the disciples’ reaction on their return? When the woman then left her water jar and went into the town, what did she say to the people?   John 4:27-29

 

 

12. Meanwhile the disciples were urging him to eat something. What did he tell them, what was their reaction and what did Jesus tell them was his food?   John 4:31-34

 

 

13. Jesus tells them to listen to him, open your eyes and see, the reaper already collects his wages and gathers a yield, for what reason?   John 4:35‑38

 

 

14. Many believe in him because of what occurrence and when he stayed with the Samaritans for two days, what brought many more to come to the faith?   John 4:39-41

 

 

15. What did they tell the woman? John 4:42

 

 

Personal ‑ Are people coming to believe in the Lord through your word of testimony? If not, what do you personally need to do? See John 4:34.

 

 

 

FIFTH DAY            READ PSALM 95:1‑2, 6‑9

(“O, that today you would hear his voice.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 95:1-2, 6-9.

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

EXODUS 17:3‑7

The Israelites, or as we have called them, the chosen people of God, were suffering under slavery and were in danger of being completely destroyed by their Egyptian captors. God chose for them a miracle, and a man would lead them in this miracle, and his name was Moses. God set them free from the Egyptians by parting the Red Sea, and Moses led them toward the promised land of Canaan. The human condition produced a series of rebellious murmuring, as they soon forgot what God had done for them. They began to complain that the difficulties of the journey were too hard to bear. They complained so much that they accused God of leading them out to the desert and leaving them to die. Moses asked God again for another miracle, and God in his mercy and love, agreed, and water came gushing forth from a rock.

Many people today are like those who were on that journey. They desire freedom, but they do not want to pay the price for it. The place where Moses drew the water from the rock is called Massah and Meribah, which means testing place. The people with Moses cried out, “Is the Lord amongst us or not?” We need to trust the Lord, not test him, because he never goes back on a promise. Like the people in the desert, many people today wonder whether God has deserted them in their hour of trial.

All the past favors, all the good times are forgotten because at the beginning their level of sincerity with God was not very high. As we begin to murmur in protest and feel abandoned or rejected we need to remember that our God is a God of love, joy, mercy, gentleness, and healing. He has promised to take us, not just to Canaan, but rather to heaven, and he will.

 

ROMANS 5:1‑2, 5‑8

As we read this passage we need to keep in mind that the Christian reality of life has two sides. One side is that we are complete in Christ (our acceptance with him is secure). On the other side, we are growing in Christ (we are becoming more and more like him). We feel both the presence of Christ and the pressure of sin. We enjoy the peace that comes from being made right with God, but we still face the daily problems that make us grow.

We need to remember these two sides in our Christian advancement and then we will not be discouraged as we face temptations and problems. Paul tells us that as believers we now stand in a place that could never be achieved by our own merits. God not only declares us not guilty, but, in fact he has drawn us closer to him. Instead of being his enemies, we have, in the response of our faith, become his own children.

Paul tells us in scripture that faith, hope and charity are at the heart of the Christian life (l Corinthians 13). Our relationship with God begins with faith. This helps us to believe that we are delivered from our past. Hope gives promise of the future, and charity or God’s love fills our lives and gives us the ability to reach out to others. The amazing part of this passage is that while we were still sinners God allowed his only begotten Son to die for all of us.

Let that sink in… Christ died for us, not because we were good enough, but because he loved us so much. He knows what is going on inside of you. He knows the problems that you are having with your own personality and yes, he died for you, especially for you. We need to remember that whenever we feel uncertain about God’s love for us, he loved us even before we decided to turn to him. The Father loved us so much that he sent his Son down to die for us and his Holy Spirit gives us the power to repent, believe and rejoice.

 

JOHN 4:4‑42

Jesus had left Jerusalem because opposition was rising against him from the Pharisees. They resented his popularity as well as his message, which challenged much of their legalistic teachings. Jesus traveled north toward the region of Galilee and it was here that he met the woman at Jacob’s well in Samaria. Samaritans were the object of tremendous racial abuse by the Jews, because when the Assyrians conquered Samaria, many of them intermarried with their conquerors.

The intermarriage resulted in a mixed race, impure in the opinion of the Jews, who lived in Judah, the southern kingdom. The Jews hated these people because they felt the Samaritans had betrayed their people and nation. Jesus was not compelled to live by such cultural restrictions and so he was not afraid to travel directly through Samaria. Jesus spotted the woman at about mid‑day. The woman probably came at that time to avoid meeting people because of her reputation.

Jesus knew that in the hot, blazing sun this woman needed a message about fresh and pure water that would quench her spiritual thirst forever. The woman was a Samaritan, had a bad reputation and was in a public place. No respectable Jewish man would talk to a woman like this under any circumstance, but JESUS did. Jesus’s message is the Good News and it is a message of hope. Jesus’ message is for every person, regardless of his or her race, social position, or age.

Jesus crossed all economic, social and racial barriers by dying on the cross for each and every one of us. We, who call ourselves Christians, must be prepared to do no less than he did. Jesus knew who the Samaritan woman was, and what she was, and he made sure that she knew it. He made sure that she knew he saw her as a child of God and told her that he was the only well that would never run dry. She knew he was different, because he did not ridicule her, and he did not try to preach the law to her. He did not even attempt to tell her that she was a sinner. He did not have to; she knew that he was offering her life, not death. She ran and told the community, not a bit worried about what they would think. She told them that he revealed everything about her, and the towns people came running to see this “Messiah.”

We need to reflect on what the Samaritan woman did when she left the well. She went forth to proclaim the Good News. The nourishment about which Jesus was speaking did not just include prayer, bible study, attending church or receiving sacraments. We also are nourished by doing God’s will and helping to bring his work of salvation to completion. We are nourished not only by what we take in, but also by what we give out for God. The woman at the well did not make excuses that her family was not ready to believe. Take a look around and, like the woman at the well, you will find plenty of people ready to hear and listen to God’s Holy Word. Tell them.

 

Application

The first reading tells us that even today, many people desire freedom, but do not want to pay the price for it. The second reading shows us that faith, hope, and charity are at the heart of Christian love. The Gospel reveals that Jesus will quench our spiritual thirst and that because of him we will never need to thirst again.

Jesus showed us that our looks and our reputations do not always tell others who and what we really are. This week look around at your family, friends, co-workers, church, and community. Pick out one person whom you think is a problem, and for a whole week, talk respectful­ly to them. Do not ignore them, but visit them in a hospital, prison or at home. We can make all the men and women of Jacob’s well feel loved if we follow Jesus’ example this entire week.

 

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 12:1‑4         FIRST READING

(“The call of Abraham, the father of God’s people.”)

1. Who was the Lord God talking to in Genesis 12:1?

 

2. Where did the Lord tell him to go? Genesis 12:1

 

3. What four things did the Lord say he would do for Abram? Genesis 12:2‑3

 

1.

 

2.

 

3.

 

4.

 

4. What will God do to those who bless Abram? Genesis 12:3

 

 

Personal ‑ The dictionary defines the word bless as: l. to make holy, hallow, 2. to ask divine favor for, 3. to wish well to, 4. to make happy or prosperous, 5. to guard, preserve. In what way have you felt blest by the Lord? In what way have you made it a practice to bless your spouse, your children, relatives or friends?

 

 

5. What will God do to those who curse Abram? Genesis 12:3

 

 

6. Who shall find blessing in Abram? Genesis 12:3

 

7. What did Abram do, and who went with him? Genesis 12:4

 

8. Who was Lot? Genesis 11:31

 

9. How old was Abram when he left Haran, land of his kinsfolk? Genesis 12:4

 

10. What other name was given to Abram by the Lord and what did the Lord make him?   Genesis 17:5

 

Personal ‑ In what way do you recognize the voice of the Lord when he is speaking to you, and do you obey that voice as Abram did? How do you think you can discern whether God is or is not speaking to you? Share with someone.

 

THIRD DAY             READ 2 TIMOTHY 1:8‑10       SECOND READING

(“God has saved us and called us to be holy.”)

1. Who is speaking in verse 8 of 2 Timothy 1 and to whom is he speaking?   2 Timothy 1:1‑2

 

2. Of what are we not to be ashamed?

 

2 Timothy 1:8

Sirach 4:26

Sirach 51:29

Romans 1:16

1 Peter 4:16

 

3. What will happen if we are ashamed of Jesus and his doctrine?      Luke 9:26

 

4. From where does our strength come? 2 Timothy 1:8

 

5. What must we bear? 2 Timothy 1:8

 

6. Who can we take as models in suffering hardship and patience?      James 5:10

 

7. What has God done for us, and to what kind of life has he called us?   2 Timothy 1:9

 

8. Have we been saved by anything we have done? 2 Timothy 1:9

 

9. How has God saved us? 2 Timothy 1:9‑10, Titus 3:5

 

10. How did he rob death of its power? 2 Timothy 1:10, Romans 6:9‑10

 

 

Personal ‑ What is the testimony to our Lord you have to share? Do you have a personal testimony of how God has worked in your life? Have you shared this with your spouse, children, family, friends, or work acquaintances? Pray and ask God to reveal to you your own personal testimony this week.

 

FOURTH DAY             READ MATTHEW 17:1‑9               GOSPEL

(“His face became as dazzling as the sun, his clothes as radiant as light.”)

1. Who did Jesus take up on a high mountain and what happened to Jesus?   Matthew 17:1-2

 

2. Who suddenly appeared there and what did Peter then say?      Matthew 17:3-4

 

3. As Peter was speaking, what overshadowed them and what came out of the cloud?   Matthew 17:5

 

4. What prevents us from listening to the Lord?

Exodus 7:13

Deuteronomy 1:43

Deuteronomy 21:18

Acts 28:27

Hebrews 12:25

 

Personal ‑ In what way have you been able to tune your mind into hearing what God is saying to you through prayer and his Word? Meditate on this.

 

5. How did God the Father address Jesus in Matthew 17:5? Matthew 3:17

 

6. What happened to Peter, James, and John when they heard the voice from the cloud and with what were they overcome?      Matthew 17:6

 

7. What did Jesus do and what did he say? Matthew 17:7

 

8. In the following scriptures, what happened to those on whom Jesus laid his hand?  Matt 8:3, 14‑15, Matt 9:23‑25

 

9. What does 1 John 4:16‑18 say is the relationship of God, love, and fear?

 

10. What did God say to Abram about fear in Genesis 15:1?

 

11. To whom did Jesus say “Do not be afraid? ” Matthew 28:1, 8‑10 Mark 6:45, 49‑50, Luke 5:10

 

12. When Peter, James and John looked up, whom did they see and as they were coming down the mountain side, what was Jesus’ command to them?   Matthew 17:8-9

 

Personal ‑ In what way have you felt Jesus’ healing touch upon you? Have you laid your hand on those in your family who may be sick? If a friend or a family member is afraid, lay your hand on them and reassure them of God’s presence.

 

FIFTH DAY         READ PSALM 33:4‑5, 18‑20, 22

(“For upright is the Word of the Lord.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 33:4-5, 18-20, 22.

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

GENESIS 12:1‑4

It is very significant and quite proper that the passage of Abram should lead us into the second Sunday of Lent. Abram was a pagan living in an idol‑worshipping country. He was about 75 years old and enjoyed a reputation as a successful man of the community. Abram had experienced a personal conversion and was convinced that God alone was the true God. First came the call to Abram and then came the “Great Commission” to “go forth and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).

God’s mercy and love for us are the first lesson this call of Abram teaches us. Through Abram God began the preparations that would lead to the coming of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who would reopen heaven’s gates for us. Only a God of love and mercy could have persevered in the face of such a stubborn people. We, too, are to extend God’s love to all nations, not just our own. Through Abram’s family, Jesus was born to save all humanity. Through Jesus all people and all nations can have a personal relationship with God and the blessings will continue even unto today, beyond measure.

God’s promise to make Abram great was tied to a promise of obedience by Abram. This meant leaving the comfort and safety of his home and friends and traveling to a new and strange land. Abram obeyed, walking away from all of his possessions, for God promised him even greater things. We are called, like Abram, to be chosen people.

When we make our conversion, as Abram did, and experience God personally, we will also be called to go forth in his name. God may be trying to lead you to a place of holiness and of greater service to his people. Don’t let the comfort and security of what you have achieved, allow you to miss out on God’s plan. God’s plan for Israel is the same as it is for you and me. Jesus said, “I have come to give you, not just life, but life in its fullness.” (John 10:10).

God planned to develop a nation of people he would call his own. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, you and I have the privilege of being called sons and daughters of God. God calls today and we are to listen and respond by accepting him personally, and then to go forth and tell others what we have experienced. This is called evangelizing or witnessing. We are called to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19).

 

2 TIMOTHY 1:8‑10

Paul, in prison writes this letter to Timothy in hopes of encouraging him to persevere in his ministry. There was much persecution going on in the Christian communities, Paul was concerned because of Timothy’s youth and the amount of opposition to him as a leader. Paul was urging him to be bold. Oh, how much boldness is needed by our Christian leaders today.

We see boldness everywhere in secular world leaders and not enough belief in the religious leaders. Paul tells Timothy, what everyone of us should never forget, that suffering will come to those who live out the Gospel message. In fact, Paul was jailed for preaching the Gospel (Hebrews 13:23). Paul promised Timothy that God would give him strength and that he would be ready when it was his turn to suffer.

We too must be ready and we too will be given strength by Jesus (1 Corinthians 10:13). Today, the threat of ridicule, rejection, being politically defeated, and, in some places in the world, being assassinated is the price for standing up for Christ. When we stand up for Christ in spite of the persecution, we are living out the Gospel message of God who loves us, chose us and sent Jesus to die for us. We die for Christ by dying to ourselves and when we call on the power of the Holy Spirit to defend us. We can stand up for Christ and endure peer pressure by walking away from pornography, refusing to go to R‑rated movies, and not buying the videos that portray women as sexual play‑toys.

Persecution is active today in many ways, and we must remember that we do not deserve to be saved, but God offers us salvation anyway. All we have to do is believe and respond with obedience to him. We must never forget that evil will succeed only when righteous people do nothing.

 

MATTHEW 17:1‑9

The Transfiguration was a special revelation of Jesus’ divinity to three of his disciples. God affirmed everything that Jesus had done and was about to do in the near future. The presence of Moses and Elijah with Jesus confirmed his mission of salvation. Moses represented the law. He is the central figure in the Pentateuch (first five books of the Bible), and he predicted the coming of a great Prophet (Deut. 18:15‑19).

Elijah represents the prophets who foretold the coming of the Messiah (Malachi 4:5‑6). Jesus is the fulfillment of both the law and the prophets. God’s voice at the Transfiguration gave authority to Jesus’ words. Peter wanted them all to stay and offered to build a place for all three. He wanted to act, but it was a time to pray and worship.

We must remember that before anything is acted upon, we must first pray and give worship to God. Peter did not realize that Christ was not to be compared to anyone, especially on any mountain top. Today much of the world looks at Jesus Christ as being a good leader, a good influence or a great prophet. The fact is, he is more than that, he is the Son of God. When you understand this incredible truth, the only appropriate response is worship.

We need to know about Christ in order to obey him completely. We must pray, read scripture, study scripture, share scripture and then live the scripture. Jesus told the disciples not to tell what they had seen until after his resurrection. He said this because he knew that they did not fully understand who he was, or what his mission was all about. They knew he was the Messiah, but they had much more to learn about him through his death and resurrection. The disciples were amazed at the radiance of Jesus’ face and they were transfigured themselves.

The incredible reality of who Jesus really was hit them full force. When a person meets Jesus and accepts him personally, a great transfiguration takes place. The amazement and radiance of Jesus is imprinted on the person’s heart. The change or “metonoia” brings about a radiance that glows from within the person. Jesus wants you to be transfigured and he wants your heart to shine like the sun and be dazzling bright, just like his.

 

Application

The first reading brings the power of God’s love and mercy to those who respond to his promise. The second reading calls on us to bear our burden of hardships and know that Christ will give us the needed strength. The Gospel reading shows that Jesus wants us to be changed and he wants us to give him glory by our response to him.

This week, let us be very sensitive Christians as we relate to our families, jobs, and community. Let us show by example how we can bear up under hardship, for example: being sick and trying to be cheerful, or being tired and trying to respond to another’s needs. Let the change within us be a sign to others that we act out what we say and what we believe. You and your family will be transfigured and others will be drawn to your radiance and they will know that the Holy Spirit dwells within you.

 

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 2:7‑9, 3:1‑7      FIRST READING

(“Creation of our first parents, and sin.”)

1. Out of what did the Lord God form man? Genesis 2:7; Sirach 33:10; Isaiah 64:7

 

2. What did he blow into his nostrils and what did man become? Genesis 2:7

 

3. What did the Lord God plant, where did he plant it, and whom did he place there? Genesis 2:8

 

4. What did the Lord make out of the ground? Genesis 2:9

 

5. Fill in the following blanks: Out of the ground the Lord God made various trees grow that were delightful to look at and good for food, with the tree of life in the middle of the garden and the tree of the knowledge of good and bad.   Genesis 2:9

 

Personal ‑ How do you see yourself being molded by Jesus each day? Have you offered yourself to God and allowed him to shape you in his own image, or have you offered yourself to those around you and allowed them to shape you into the world’s image? Meditate on this.

 

6. Who is the most cunning of all the animals that the Lord God has made and to whom did the serpent ask the question, and what was the woman’s answer to the question?   Genesis 3:1-3

 

7. What did God say would happen to them if they ate from the tree in the middle of the garden? Genesis 2:17, 3:3

 

8. What did the serpent say to the woman? Genesis 2:17, 3:4-5

 

9. Compare the three things the woman saw in Genesis 3:6 with the three things the world has to offer in 1 John 2:16.

GENESIS 3:6                     1 JOHN 2:16

1. 1. good for food             sensual lust

 

2. pleasing to the eyes              enticement for the eyes

 

3. desirable for gaining wisdom               pretentious life

 

10. What did she do, who was with her, and what happened when they ate the fruit? Genesis 3:6-7

 

 

THIRD DAY              READ ROMANS 5:12‑19        SECOND READING

(“The results of the gift, Jesus Christ, outweigh one man’s sin.”)

1. How did sin enter the world and what went with sin? Romans 5:12

 

2. To whom did death come and what was in the world before the law?   Romans 5:12-13

 

3. What reigned from Adam to Moses and even over those who had not sinned yet?   Romans 5:14

 

4. What is the gift not like and what overflowed for the many?      Romans 5:15

 

5. To whom is grace given? Ephesians 6:24, Psalm 84:12, Romans 11:5

 

6. How does God’s grace work in us and what is God’s gift to us?      Ephesians 2:8, Acts 2:38 and 1 Peter 2:19

 

7. What is entirely different from the sin committed by the one man? Romans 5:16

 

8. What happened in the first case and what happened in the second case?   Romans 5:16

 

9. If death began to reign through one man because of his offense, what will those receive through the one man, Jesus      Christ?   Romans 5:17

 

 

10. Compare the following and fill in the blanks: Romans 5:18‑19

 

a single offense                 a single righteous act

 

_______________________          ________________________

 

one man’s disobedience           one man’s obedience

 

_______________________          ________________________

 

 

Personal ‑ How are you walking in obedience to God’s Word? Do you know it enough to distinguish whether you are or are not walking in obedience? In what way is his grace sufficient for you? Think about this.

 

 

 

FOURTH DAY             READ MATTHEW 4:1‑11               GOSPEL

(“Like Adam and Eve, Jesus was tempted, but did not sin.”)

1. What happened just before Jesus was led into the desert? Matthew 4:2, Matthew 3:13

 

2. Who led Jesus into the desert and by whom was he tested? Matthew 4:1

 

3. How long did he fast and what was his physical condition after he fasted?   Matthew 4:2

 

4. What is the devil called and what did he say to him?     Matthew 4:3

 

5. What was Jesus’ reply and how did he say this man was not to live?   Matthew 4:4

 

6. What are some other ways besides hunger by which the devil can tempt us?  Ephesians 4:26, 27 James 4:6-7, 1 Peter 5:8

 

7. What did the devil do next and what did the devil say to Jesus?   Matthew 4:5-6

 

8. What did the devil quote in Matthew 4:6, and where did the quote come from?   Psalm 91:11

 

9. What did Jesus answer him and on what did Jesus again rely?      Matthew 4:7, Deuteronomy 6:6

 

10. What did the devil then do, what did the devil promise Jesus, and what would he have to do in order to receive this promise? Matthew 4:8‑9

 

11. What did Jesus say to him, what did the devil do, and who came and waited on Jesus? Matthew 4:11

 

Personal – If, when being tempted by the devil, Jesus responded with “Scripture has it,” should we not also respond to temptation with “Scripture has it?” How has the study of God’s Word helped you resist temptation and make Satan flee? Use God’s Word and concentrate on areas in which you are weak and are tempted. If you cannot think of a scrip­ture in that particular area, remember to ask the Holy Spirit to reveal one to you.

 

 

FIFTH DAY         READ PSALM 51:3‑6, 12‑14, 17

(“In the greatness of your compassion, wipe out my offense.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 51:3-6, 12-14, 17.

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

GENESIS 2:7‑9; 3:1‑7

We see in this passage the tremendous gift that comes from God, and that, of course, is life. The body is lifeless until God breathes life into it. Our bodies return to dust when God removes his life‑giving breath from us. It is incredibly important that we see that man’s life and worth come from the breath of God. This passage clearly shows us our need for God. We need only to look around and see how temporary our achievements are. We find that God is the only permanent value in our lives. Be­cause of him, you and I can face tomorrow without any need to fear.

God has given us a miraculous gift called life and we need to value it as much as he does. We do this by valuing the lives of others and protecting the sanctity of human life wherever we may go. God showed us how special we were by placing Adam and Eve in a beautiful and safe garden of plants and trees.

We need to confront the age‑old question, why would God place a tree in the garden and then forbid Adam to eat from it? God, of course, wanted Adam to obey him, but he also gave him the freedom to choose. Today, God gives us that choice, and many times, like Adam, we make a wrong choice. These wrong choices that we make today can cause us and others great pain and irritation. They also can help us to learn and grow and make better choices in the future. Adam was given a choice, because he would have been a prisoner forced to obey if he couldn’t say “no”. We see Satan disguised as a serpent trying to tempt Eve.

Satan is still trying to tempt everyone away from God even as you read this commentary. Satan failed and he was crushed by God (Gen. 3:14). Adam and Eve learned that since God is holy and hates sin, he must punish sinners. Why does Satan tempt us? Temptation is Satan’s invita­tion to give in to his kind of life and give up on God’s kind of life. Satan tempted Eve and was success­ful in getting her to sin, and ever since that time he’s been busy getting people to sin.

We can resist temptation by praying for the strength to resist. We can run away or remove ourselves from situations that cause the temptation (bad movies, dirty jokes, bad companions, etc.). Finally, we can say no when con­fronted with what we know is wrong. Satan tries to show Eve that sin is lovely, and today, we see that same philosophy in our movies and TV shows at home. People usually choose wrong things because they have been convinced that these things are good. Be prepared to resist the attractive temptations that may come your way.

 

 

ROMANS 5:12‑19

“It isn’t fair.” That is the cry of many who refuse to be declared guilty of something Adam did thousands of years ago. Many people feel it is not right or fair for God to lay his judgment on us today for what Adam did so long ago. Yet each one of us confirms our identification with Adam by our sins. We are made of the same stuff, quick to rebel, quick to make judgments on others. We are all sinners who fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23) and what we really need is not fairness, rather it is mercy.

Paul tells the people that keeping the law does not bring salvation. He goes on to tell them that the law helps people to see their sinfulness. The law points out our sin and places the responsibility for it squarely on our shoulders. The law does not save us from the results of sin; only the healing power of Jesus Christ can save us.

We must turn to Jesus in order to be saved. Adam has brought to all of us the results of his sin, inherited guilt, the tendency to sin, and God’s punishment. Because of Jesus’ dying for us on the cross even while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8), we can still trade judgment for forgiveness. Jesus has offered us the chance to be born into his spiritual family, the family that begins with forgiveness and leads to eternal life.

We have an incredible opportunity to make a choice. If we do nothing we have death through Adam. If, on the other hand, we decide to come to God through faith, we will have life through Christ. Think about this question very seriously. To which family line do you now belong?

 

MATTHEW 4:1‑11

Matthew shows us, in this passage, the humanness of Jesus and his being tempted while being very vulnerable and hungry in the desert. This experience allowed Jesus to reaffirm God’s plan for his own ministry. This temptation of Jesus is very important for us because it showed that even Jesus had to face temptation, and we should expect no less than this, too.

Jesus did not give in to his temptation, and we can do the same through faith and obedience to Our Lord Jesus Christ. A person has not shown true obedience if he has never had the opportunity to be disobedient. We need to realize that we too will be tested and we should be alert and ready for it. We are not being tempted by Christ because he does not try to drag us down. We are being tempted by Satan, and only through faith in Jesus can we resist and make the devil flee.

It is important for us to remember our convictions are only as good as they are under pressure. Testing is a time that we experience as we react to the temptation. We need to remember that temptation itself is not a sin. We sin when we give in and disobey God. We see in this passage that Satan’s temptations focused on four crucial areas in our lives: physical desires, possessions, power, and pride. These temptations are very much in activities against the people of today as well as they were for Jesus.

Jesus resisted Satan because he knew scripture and he called on it and obeyed it. We are told that God’s Word is a weapon, like a hammer that smashes rocks (Jeremiah 23:29). Knowing scriptures is important in resisting Satan’s attacks, but we must obey God’s Word as well. We might well remember that Satan knew scripture too, but he chose to disobey God’s Holy Word. Satan used scripture to try to convince Jesus to sin, and today, sometimes a friend will try to convince you with a scripture that seems to support his viewpoint. Pray, read, and study God’s Word daily and you will be ready when Satan tries to trap you into giving in to temptation.

 

Application

The first reading shows us that distortion of the Word is dangerous. In the second reading we clearly see that the gift of Jesus’ death on the cross totally wipes out the results of Adam’s sin. The Gospel reveals that knowing God’s Word, while important, is not enough to resist temptation. We must act on God’s Word to really be free of the temptation. This week, let us look for a scripture that fits a particular temptation that we come up against. An example is that we should never go to bed while angry at someone, such as a spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, etc. We should act upon the scripture, Ephesians 4:26, which says, “Don’t let the sun go down with you still angry, get over it quickly.” We do that by confessing our sin and asking that person to forgive us. That is a great way to resist Satan and make him flee.

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 LEVITICUS 19:1‑2, 17‑18    FIRST READING

(“Be holy, for I, the Lord your God, am holy.”)

1. To whom was the Lord speaking? Leviticus 19:1

 

2. To whom did the Lord tell him to speak, and what did he tell him to say?   Leviticus 19:2

 

3. Who makes us holy and how do we become holy? Exodus 31:13, Ephesians 5:25‑26, 1 Corinthians 3:17

 

4. What must we do to become holy? Leviticus 20:7

 

5. What is with his holy ones? Wisdom 3:9

 

6. Who are the holy people? Isaiah 62:12

 

7. What shall you not do, and what may you have to do?      Leviticus 19:17

 

8. What does Prov. 9:8 say will happen to us when we reprove an arrogant man and a wise man?

 

9. What must we not incur because of our brother? Leviticus 19:17

 

10. What must we not do against our fellow countrymen, and what command is given in Leviticus 19:18?

 

Personal ‑ Are you loving your spouse, children, relatives, friends, and neighbor as yourself? In what way is the love of your neighbor evident? Share with someone if you wish.

 

11. Who does God say he is? Leviticus 19:18

 

Personal ‑ Who do you say God is? In what way is he your Lord? Your friend? Your ruler? Your Lord of all? Meditate on this.

 

 

THIRD DAY          READ 1 CORINTHIANS 3:16‑23     SECOND READING

(“You are the temple of God.”)

1. What is it of which you may not be aware? 1 Cor. 3:16, 1 Corinthians 6:19

 

2. How do we know this? 2 Corinthians 6:16

 

3. What will happen to anyone who destroys God’s temple? 1 Corinthians 3:17

 

4. What is the temple of God and who is that temple? 1 Corinthians 3:17

 

5. How can we delude ourselves? 1 Corinthians 3:18

 

6. What should you become if you think you are wise in a worldly way?   1 Corinthians 3:18

 

7. What is absurdity with God? 1 Corinthians 3:19

 

8. What does scripture say about the worldly wise? 1 Corinthians 3:19‑20, Job 5:13

 

9. What must we not let happen and what is ours? 1 Corinthians 3:21‑22

 

10. To whom do you belong? 1 Corinthians 3:23

 

11. How do we know this? 1 Corinthians 6:20

 

12. To whom does Christ belong? 1 Corinthians 3:23

 

Personal ‑ If you have been purchased by the Blood of Christ and you belong to him, in what way does your life reflect him in his Spirit dwelling within you to everyone you meet? This will be evident by the love they see in you. Reflect on this.

 

 

FOURTH DAY       READ MATTHEW 5:38‑48  GOSPEL

(“Offer no resistance to injury.”)

1. In Verse 38 of Matthew 5, who was speaking and what did he say that they had heard?  Matthew 4:17 5:38

 

2. What does he say to us, and when a person strikes us on the right cheek, what should we do?   Matthew 5:39

 

3. What should we do if someone wants to go to the law over our shirt, and should anyone press us into service for one mile,      what should we do?   Matthew 5:40-41

 

4. What should we do with the man who begs from us, and what does Jesus tell us not to do?   Matthew 5:42

 

5. What has God given us?

Mark 3:28

John 5:21

John 13:34

 

6. What is the other commandment that he said we have heard and what is his commandment to us?   Matthew 5:43-44

 

7. What will this prove, on whom does he make the sun to rise, and on whom does he cause the rain to fall? Matthew 5:45

 

8. If we love those who love us, is there any merit in that, and who does even that much?   Matthew 5:46

 

9. If we greet our brothers only, what is praiseworthy about that, and who does as much?   Matthew 5:47

 

10. In a word, what must we be made, just as your heavenly Father is?   Matthew 5:48

 

Personal ‑ In your life, how are you being made perfect, like your Heavenly Father, as you obey his command to love since you have been studying and have been obedient to his Word? Read John 14:21 to see the corre­lation between love, commandments, and obedience. Share with someone on how this has affected your life.

 

 

FIFTH DAY            READ PSALM 103:1‑13

(“He redeems your life from destruction.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 103:1-13.

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

LEVITICUS 19:1‑2, 17‑18

This book, “Leviticus,” acquires its name from dealing with mat­ters concerned with laws centered around the worship of God. The worship of God was conducted by the tribe of Levi, and the end result was this book. Today’s reading is taken from a body of laws commonly called the Laws of Holiness. Holiness is the key theme of Leviti­cus, and the word “holy” appears more often in Leviticus than in any other book of the Bible. Israel was called to be totally consecrated to God. God reminded the people of Israel that he was “holy” and wanted them to be “holy” also, just like he was.

The same call is being made to us today, and that is to be holy like our God is holy. The holiness that is being called for must be expressed in every aspect of our lives. The holiness that our loving God is calling for must be visible in the way we treat our neigh­bors and, of course, the question always is, “Who is my neighbor?” Our neighbor is anyone who is in distress anywhere and needs our help.

Today’s reading calls for all of us to put aside our grudges and become people who forgive and forget. We are called to reason with our offending neighbor and try to bring him back to true brotherly fellowship in the Lord. The natural man wants to repay the offender back in full. The spiritual man who knows and loves God, must also be holy himself.

God’s call for us to be holy and to imitate HIM is not really a command; it is more like advice given by a very loving Father.

 

 

1 CORINTHIANS 3:16‑23

Paul is telling the people of Corinth, and the people living at the present time, that their bodies are tem­ples of the Holy Spirit, and our church is the house of God. He goes on to say that our temples are not to be defiled. Satan has taken direct aim at the bodies of many Christians, and their temples have become defiled with alcohol, drugs, cigarette smoking, and sexual immorality. Our church is not to be spoiled by divisions within it through bickering, pettiness, jealousy, slandering, and false teachings, as its members come together to worship God.

Paul is telling the people that they have to choose between worldly wisdom or heavenly wisdom. Worldly wisdom that holds us back from God is no wisdom at all. Paul is telling us that some of the leaders of the community were caught up in pride and worldly wisdom, and the result was they valued their message more than its content.

Today, we can see a great deal of worldly wisdom being exercised in our nations and even in some areas of our church. Scripture tells us that God knows beyond any question how the human mind reasons and how foolish and desperate it is (1 Cor. 20). Paul closed by telling us that, as believers, all is for us and we belong to Christ.

To a believer in Christ, life and death become our servants. We know life’s true purpose; but to the non‑believe­rs, only the latest trend in behavior is all they have. Non‑believers are like victims of life who are swept along by its current and wonder if there is a meaning to it. For Chris­tians, death holds no terrors because Christ conquered them all. Because of Jesus, you and I will live forever.

 

 

MATTHEW 5:38‑48

Today’s Gospel reveals the core of the Christian life and the conduct which should separate Christians from all others. Jesus begins by citing the oldest law in the world ‑ an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth. That was known as the “Lex Talionis” law and it came out of the Code of Hammorabi, who reigned in Babylon about 1700 years before Christ.

The law clearly stated that the injury a victim suffers shall be dupli­cated and suffered by the person who committed the crime. We find in today’s reading the Mosaic law “an eye for an eye and a tooth for tooth” (Exodus 21:24) a subtle change.

This law was the beginning of mercy because it deliberately limited vengeance. Jesus completely moved away from that law because retaliation or “getting even,” no matter how controlled or restricted, has no place in the life of his followers.

Jesus establishes a spirit of non‑resentment and abolishes the concept of even limited vengeance. Today, Jesus is calling us to hear his message that in order to be one of his followers, we have to learn to resent no insult and to seek no vengeance. We are to be like Jesus, and forget what it is to be insulted, and not to respond with vengeance but with love. Jesus never insisted to stand on his rights. In fact, he did not consider himself as having any legal rights at all (Philippians 2:3‑4). The Christian who really follows Christ does not think of his rights, but of his duties. He does not think of his privileges; instead, he thinks of his responsibili­ties. Jesus strikes at the core of our belief by showing that our actions really demonstrate what we believe. Do you show disgust when someone requests that you do a menial task? Do you feel insulted when you do a good job and no one recognizes what you did? Do you work with some inefficient workers? Do you work with an ungracious helper?

Jesus calls us to respond only with love and he tells us that he will give us all that we need when we are tempted to respond otherwise (1 Cor. 10:13). Jesus’ response, in today’s reading, is that whatever we do to the least of his brothers and sisters, we do unto him (Matthew 25:31‑46).

 

Application

The first reading is a call to holiness, and the second reading calls us to remember that we are temples of the Holy Spirit.  The Gospel reveals that Christians do not have to “get even.”  Let us, this week, show that our call to holiness is being answered with a “yes” by attending Mass as often as we can and to be modest in the way we dress and in the way we talk.

We can respond to the person who irritates us with Christian love instead of pagan retaliation.  Let us be kind and gentle to everyone we meet and, individually, be prepared for some “neat” miracles to happen!

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 15:15-20        FIRST READING

(“To whatever you choose stretch forth your hand.”)

1. Fill in the following blanks: _____you_________you can keep the commandments; it     is________to do_____ ______.   Sirach 15:15

 

2. What is set before you __________, and what must you stretch forth?   Sirach 15:16

 

3. What is before man, and what will be given him? Sirach 15:17

 

4. What three things must we do to choose life? Deuteronomy 30:20

 

1.

 

2.

 

3.

 

5. What happens to those who choose life? Deuteronomy 30:19-20

 

6. Who shows us the way we must choose? Psalm 25:12

 

7. What is immense, and in what is the Lord mighty? Sirach 15:18

 

8. What do the eyes of God see and what does he understand?      Sirach 15:19

 

9. What does God command man NOT to do, and what specific sin does Sirach 15:20 tell you, for which God does not give you strength?

 

Personal – Do you ever feel you do not have a choice in certain matters? Read Sirach 15:14-15. Have you ever lied and blamed it on your background or someone else or even said, “The devil made me do it?” Meditate on this passage of scripture and confess any past sins of lying.

 

 

THIRD DAY          READ 1 CORINTHIANS 2:6-10     SECOND READING

(“Yet God has revealed this Wisdom to us through the Spirit.”)

1. What is it that is expressed among the spiritually mature? 1 Corinthians 2:6

 

2. Is it a wisdom of this age? 1 Corinthians 2:6

 

3. Who are passing away? 1 Corinthians 2:6

 

4. What is it we utter? 1 Corinthians 2:7

 

5. To whom has he revealed this wisdom?

Psalm 19:8

Luke 7:35

James 1:5

 

6. Why did God plan his wisdom before all ages? 1 Cor. 2:7

 

7. Did the rulers of this age know the mystery? 1 Cor. 2:8

 

8. What would they not have done if they had known God’s wisdom?   1 Corinthians 2:8

 

9. What is written of this wisdom? 1 Corinthians 2:9

 

10. Through whom has God revealed this wisdom? 1 Cor. 2:10

 

11. What does the Spirit do? 1 Corinthians 2:10

 

Personal – How do you anticipate the exciting things God has planned for you each day? How do you show your love for God, other than sitting alone with him and talking to him?

 

 

FOURTH DAY             READ MATTHEW 5:17-37               GOSPEL

(“Whoever fulfills and teaches these commands  shall be great in the kingdom of God.”)

1. What did Jesus say he did not come to do, and what did he say he came to do?   Matthew 5:17

 

2. How did he fulfill the law, and of what did he assure them?      Romans 3:21-31, Matthew 5:18

 

3. What will the person who breaks these commands, and teaches others to do so, be called in the kingdom of God? What will the person who fulfills these commands and teaches these commands be in the kingdom of God?   Matthew 5:19

 

Personal– What makes you to be considered great in the kingdom of God? In what way do others see you walking by faith? How are you teaching your spouse, children, friends, and family, etc., to walk by faith?

 

4. What must surpass the scribes and Pharisees, and what will happen to those whose holiness does not surpass that of the scribes and Pharisees?   Matthew 5:20

 

5. What was the commandment imposed on our forefathers? Matthew 5:21

 

6. What three things does Jesus say to us in Matthew 5:22; and by becoming angry, by using abusive language, and by being contemptuous toward our brother, what do we risk? Matthew 5:22

 

7. If you bring your gift to the altar and there recall that your brother has something against you, what must you do? Matthew 5:24

 

8. What does Jesus say about time, what will your opponent do if you lose time in going to him, and what is Jesus’ warning?      Matthew 5:25-26

 

Personal– Have you ever been angry, used abusive language, and been contemptuous to those in your family? Did you settle the matter right away or did you let it continue for days? You have the choice; think about it.

 

9. What commandment is he talking about in Matthew 5:27, and what does Jesus say about it?   Matthew 5:28

 

10. What must we throw away in order not to destroy the whole body?   Matthew 5:29-30

 

11. What does Jesus say about divorce, and what was the commandment imposed on our forefathers?   Matthew 5:31-33

 

12. What did Jesus say about this, and what are heaven, earth, and Jerusalem?   Matthew 5:34-35

 

13. By what else must we not swear? Matthew 5:36

 

14. What should we say when we mean yes and what should we say when we mean no. Whom does it come from when we say anything beyond that?   Matthew 5:37

 

Personal– We know when we should say yes and when we should say no by God’s Holy Word. The answers on how to live your life are all written in his Word, the Bible. How much time do you spend each day praying and reading God’s Word? Pray and ask God to reveal his truth to you through the Bible.

 

 

FIFTH DAY      READ PSALM 119:1-2,4-5,17-18,33-34

(“Give me discernment that I may observe your law and keep it with all my heart.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 119:1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34.

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 15:15-20

Sirach is one of the Wisdom books of the Old Testament. It is a very earthy and plain book that deals with morality and the true religious philosophy of life. The practical­ity of this book has much wisdom even for the people of today. The gift of free will comes from God and it is a precious gift. We know that we can serve God by keeping his commandments, or to reject his authority and, in turn, reject him.

God loves us so much that he will not take away that gift of free will from us; because, if he did, we would be like the dumb beasts in the jungle. Today’s message is telling us that we can keep God’s commandments, and we know that because he tells us he will always be there (John 15:7). We can choose evil but we cannot say we could not help ourselves because we would be trying to say that we did not have a choice. We may fool our friends, family, or even society with this false line of defense; but our all-wise, all-loving, and all-knowing God cannot be deceived.

We are compelled to always remember that our God is a God of love, and our religion is a religion of love, not fear. We do good things because we choose not to offend our beloved God who loves us even when we make bad choices. Love is a decision and when we do not have a choice to decide, it is no longer love that motivates us.

Christians are motivated by the knowledge that God has chosen to love us first, and that he never stops loving us. We may favorably reflect on this incredible kind of benevolent love that he has for us and choose to respond to his love with our “yes” to his Holy Word. You may have some terrible pages in your book of life, but you have the option to choose and to tear these pages out by coming back to God in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. We choose to come back into the safe and loving arms of a forgiving Father, called “Abba,” when we turn to him and ask for his pardon.

 

 

1 CORINTHIANS 2:6-10

Paul was very emphatic that the Christian faith that the converted Corinthians had received was a gift from God. He stressed that they were converted from paganism not by any great skill of preaching or earthy philosophy, but by God. The mental outlook of the majority of today’s society is very similar to that of St. Paul’s time. Today, much is made of the earthly wisdom of our secular and religious leaders.

The philosophy of today is not centered on the cross of Calvary; on the contrary, it is concen­trated on the centers of learning and trade. The big business tycoons of today are modern counterparts of the Roman slave-drivers. Today, in many parts of the world, the destiny of the poor is in the hands of those who are very wealthy. The things of God are openly denied and ridiculed. The power of money and guns seems to drown out the cry of the poor. Jesus called out to us and said, “What you do to the least of my brothers, you do unto me.” (Matthew 25:31-46)

We see the desire of choice becoming a choice of death for the unwanted unborn of our land. We have become so advanced in our technology that segregation and suppression of our weaker brothers and sisters are lost in the frenzy to have more of everything. This is a direct result of our ignoring the only true wisdom of life. God’s wisdom has been revealed in his incarnation; the modern man still thinks that his true happiness is centered here on earth. Man thinks that because he only has a few years here on earth, he has to go for the “gusto.” We can only be brought back to reality by a return to recognizing God’s plan for us.

The time we have here on earth is our journey to heaven. The more we reach out and help our fellow-travelers on this journey, the smoother will be our own trip. We must keep our path marked out by our heavenly Father, and we must practice broth­erly love along the way. The majesty of what God has in store for those who love him is beyond our wildest dreams.

 

 

MATTHEW 5:17-37

Christ is not calling for the removal of the Ten Commandments. He is telling his followers that their attitude must be righteous and more spiritual than that of the scribes and Pharisees. The moral value of any legal observance comes from the inferiority of the attitudes of those who observe and keep the law. Our compli­ance with the law does not honor God alone. Our attitude of love, reverence, and obedience to do his will is what honors God. This is the core of the law of Christianity. The old law of Moses is not abolished; it is deepened and given new meaning. To avoid murdering someone, or even injuring someone, is not enough; rather, we are called to help and prevent injury to anyone who is in distress wherever and whenever we can. To be someone who doesn’t commit adultery is not enough; we are called as Christians to respect and esteem purity. This includes not only purity in actions but also purity in thoughts.

Today, we hear a variety of ways to prevent infectious diseases, such as gonor­rhea, syphilis, or AIDS. Why do we hear so little of purity, chastity, and Christian morality? We must be truthful people, not only to ourselves, but first to God (John 8:32). God’s laws were given to help people love God with all their hearts and minds (Deuteronomy 6:5). God’s law is a law of love, and love is a decision that begins with the mind. By Jesus’ time the religious leaders turned the law into a confusing mass of rules. Jesus spoke out against the abuses and excesses to which the law had been subjected. The Pharisees were content to obey the law outwardly and would not allow it to change their hearts. Jesus was saying that the quality of our hearts had to be greater than that of the Pharisees.

Today, we only have to look around to see the outward forms of piety being practiced, such as going to Mass, reciting the daily devotions, and seeing clergy praying the Office. This kind of obedience, while it is good, is not enough if there is no “metonoia” (a change of heart). Do people see us as the fruit of the Spirit because we keep the laws of God? If not, why not? We need to really listen as Jesus talks to us in this passage. He says that we will be held accountable for everything we do, everything we do not do, and every one of our thoughts.

Jesus is our source and our supply when we are being attacked by wrongful thoughts (Philippians 4:19). We can strike back against Satan by filling our minds with thoughts that are pure, good, and honorable (Philippians 4:8). Jesus tells us to be truthful and speak with veracity, and our need for promises and oaths will be reduced tremendously.

 

 

Application

The first reading tells us that we have a “free will” and that we can make a choice. The second reading tells us that this gift of a “free will” is available to everyone. The gift of faith is open to all men, rich or poor, schooled or unschooled, sick or healthy. The Gospel tells us that the spirit or the intent of the law is what gives it power and success. A change of heart is what makes a law a proven value.

This week, let us show by our actions that a change of heart is taking place inside of us! Parents, this week, do not allow in your home any diversion, such as TV or video, that Jesus could not sit and watch, too. Children, do not talk or listen to any conversations in school or at work that Jesus could not listen to or talk about. All Adults – let whatever comes out of your mouth be words that will change other people’s thoughts to thinking about Jesus Christ.

 

THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

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

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

 

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

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

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY              READ ISAIAH 58:7‑10         FIRST READING

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

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

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

OPPRESSION               MALICIOUS SPEECH            ACCUSATIONS

Psalm 119:134             Proverbs 2:12             Prov. 10:18

Proverbs 21:7             Proverbs 4:24             Mark 15:3-5

Ecclesiastes 7:7           Sirach 27:6

Sirach 10:7              Matthew 22:15

Isaiah 33:15‑16           John 8:43‑44

Ezekiel 45:9

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

THIRD DAY       READ 1 CORINTHIANS 2:1‑5           SECOND READING

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

10. God sends messages to us in many ways. Read the following and see if you can pick out who was being used as a messenger.

Genesis 16:7‑12

Genesis 21:17

Malachi 2:7

Matthew 11:10, 11

Acts 10:3

 

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

 

 

 

FOURTH DAY             READ MATTHEW 5:13‑16               GOSPEL

(“You are the light of the world.”)

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

 

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

Leviticus 2:13

Mark 9:49‑50

Colossians 4:6

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

7. Who is good? Psalm 25:8

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Exodus 15:1, 2            Mark 2:12

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

Ezra 10:10, 11                               Acts 3:9

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

Daniel 4:34              Hebrews 13:12‑15

Matthew 11:25             Rev 4:8‑11

 

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

 

 

 

FIFTH DAY              READ PSALM 112:4‑9

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

Read and meditate on Psalm 112:4‑9.

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ISAIAH 58:7‑10

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

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

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

 

 

1 CORINTHIANS 2:1‑5

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

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

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

 

MATTHEW 5:13‑16

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

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

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

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

 

Application

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

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

THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

by Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

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 ZEPHANIAH 2:3, 3:12-13     FIRST READING

(“Seek the Lord all you humble of the Lord.”)

1. Who must seek the Lord? Zephaniah 2:3

 

2. What happens to those who humble themselves?

2 Chronicles 7:14

Job 22:29

Psalm 25:9

Proverbs 3:34

Proverbs 11:2

Sirach 3:18

1 Peter 5:5

 

3. What happens to those who do not humble themselves?

2 Chronicles 33:23, 24

Sirach 10:15

Isaiah 13:11

Daniel 4:34

 

4. What does it mean to humble yourself?

Ezra 8:21

Sirach 2:17

Sirach 18:20

Philippians 2:3-5

 

5. What happens to God through those that are humble? Sirach 3:19

 

6. From whom do we learn to become humble? Matthew 11:25, 29

 

7. How should Christians act toward one another? 1 Peter 3:8

 

Personal – Read Philippians 2:3, 4. Put your name in the following first and third blank spaces, and insert the name of a person you have the most trouble getting along with, in the second and fourth blank spaces:

 

(1)_________, never act out of rivalry or conceit; rather think humbly of (2)__________as superior to (3)_________, looking to (4)__________interest rather than to my own.

 

8. What three things must they seek? Zephaniah 2:3

 

9. What may happen to these people on the day of the Lord’s anger?  Zep 2:3. Also see Psalm 2:11, on how not to be      affected by God’s anger

 

10. What will he leave in your midst and in what shall they take refuge?   Zephaniah 3:12

 

11. What three things shall they not do, and what shall they do?      Zephaniah 3:13

 

Personal – Are you one of God’s remnants? Do others see you as one of his remnants? What can you do to better glorify God? Meditate on this.

 

 

THIRD DAY          READ 1 CORINTHIANS 1:26-31    SECOND READING

(“If anyone wants to boast, let him boast about the Lord.”)

1. Who are among those called, and what are they to consider?     1 Corinthians 1:26

 

2. What are these brothers not considered? 1 Corinthians 1:26

 

Personal – Who do you consider the well-born today? Who are the influential?

 

3. Who did God choose to shame the wise, and who did God single out of this world to do what? 1 Corinthians 1:27

 

4. How does the world see these people, and what was God’s reason for choosing the low born?   1 Corinthians 1:27-29

 

5. Who has God chosen according to James 2:5?

 

6. Who has given us life in Christ Jesus? 1 Corinthians 1:30

 

7. Was this new life in Christ Jesus accomplished by anything we have done? Ephesians 2:8-9

 

8. Fill in the following blanks: He has made him our ________ and also our _________, our _________________and our

_____________ (1 Corinthians 1:30)

 

9. Who gives wisdom, what is wisdom, and to whom does God give wisdom?   1 Kings 5:9, Ephesians 1:9, Job 28:28, Psalm 19:8

 

10. As Jesus grew in size and strength with what was he filled?      Luke 2:40

 

11. With what does righteousness begin and end, and how will we receive justice?  Romans 1:17, Luke 18:7

 

12. What leads us to righteousness, and what must we do with our      bodies to sanctify them?   Romans 6:16-19

 

13. How have we been sanctified? Hebrews 10:10

 

14. How have we been redeemed? Ephesians 1:7

 

15. How did we deserve to be justified by the gift of God through the redemption of Christ? Romans 3:24

 

Personal – At times, how do you find yourself boasting about your accomplishments? Think about this today, and when you begin to do this, discipline your mind to think on what Jesus has done for you in that situation.

 

 

FOURTH DAY             READ MATTHEW 5:1-12               GOSPEL

(“Happy are the poor in spirit.”)

1. When Jesus went up on the mountainside and sat down, who gathered around him?  Matthew 5:1

 

2. What did Jesus begin to do, and where did Jesus do his teaching?

Matthew 5:1-2

Mark 1:21

Mark 4:1

Luke 5:3

 

Personal – How and where do you teach about God’s ways? How can you follow Jesus’ example to teach whenever a need arises? In what way have you learned about how Jesus acted in certain situations to be able to share that with your spouse, your children, your friends, and those with whom you work?

 

3. Who did Jesus tell his disciples would teach them when he was not there?   Luke 12:12

 

4. Whose is the kingdom of God? Matthew 5:3; Luke 6:20

 

5. Who shall be consoled? Matt 5:4; Luke 6:21; Psalm 126:5

 

6. Who shall inherit the land? Matt 5:5; Psalm 37:11; Proverbs 2:21

 

7. What will happen to those who hunger and thirst for holiness? Matt 5:6, Luke 6:21, Proverbs 21:21

 

8. Mercy shall be whose, and who shall see God? Matt 5:7-8

 

9. Who shall be called sons of God, and to whom does the reign of God belong?  Matthew 5:9-10, 1 Peter 2:20

 

10. Whose reward is great in heaven? Matthew 5:12

 

11. When being persecuted, how should we act? Whom did they persecute before us and in what way?  Matt 5:12, James 1:2, 2 Chronicles 36:16

 

 

FIFTH DAY              READ PSALM 146:6-10

(“The Lord sets captives free.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 146:6-10.

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ZEPHANIAH 2:3, 3:12-13

The “day of Yahweh” was coming, the day when God would punish all disobedient nations. Judah, because of her pride and rebelliousness, was very much included. A small remnant of God’s people would survive the day of wrath if they became obedient to God’s commands. This same warning is issued for our benefit today. The chosen people (the Israelites) did not really believe this prophecy and their nation was subjected to incredible violence. We are that remnant today and we are called more than ever to bring his Word to those around us. Many people today are still waiting for a Messiah who will bring them recognition, wealth and power.

When Jesus finally came they were not ready for him and resented him. They condemned him to death on the cross. That cross became the banner around which the few faithful Jews and Gentiles (remnant) rallied. His kingdom on earth spread and in just 30 years after his death, Christianity was known and practiced in the entire civilized world.

Today the world is turning more and more into a pagan world, and the warnings of Zephaniah are ringing in our ears. God is opposed to the proud and arrogant of every generation. He will always bless and protect the poor and the humble because they believe in him. Self-reliance and arrogance found no place in God’s kingdom then and neither will it find any place in God’s kingdom today. Zephaniah shows us that only when we faithfully follow and obey God’s Word can we really ever be truly happy.

The Good Shepherd looks over his flock and provides them with the protection that they need. They know they can lie down in safety and rest in peace because he is always present among them. We need not fear any man or nation because Jesus tells us that through him, all things are possible (Philippians 4:13).

 

1 CORINTHIANS 1:26-31

Paul tells us how fortunate we are to have a God who loves us so much that he chose to become just like us in every way but sin. He tells us that God calls us to be one of his children, not because of what we have done or what we may own or even how smart we may be. In fact, God has made salvation available to all, especially the lowly and humble. All anyone needs is faith in order to be saved. Salvation comes from believing that Jesus Christ died so that all of our sins would be washed away by his blood. Jesus’ death allowed us to become holy and spotless before God. We are justified in faith by what Jesus did on that cross, not by anything we ever did. This is tremendously Good News for us, especially those of us who are struggling in our own lives through sickness, poverty, tyranny or being from the wrong side of town. It’s incredible to realize that Jesus came to earth to die for all men and women, rich or poor, weak or strong, young or old.

Not everyone accepted Jesus and the result is that many are searching in the wrong direction for the peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Faith is a response to the power and presence of the living God in our lives. Salvation is free, but it is not inherited. Each one of us has to personally accept the invitation from Christ. Paul’s words are great comfort and hope to the people in our world today. Much of the world is suffering through famine, tyranny, and lack of respect for human dignity. Jesus is present among all of us and he seeks out the oppressed and offers them full partnership in his kingdom in heaven and encourag­es all of us to bring that kingdom into reality here on earth now.

 

MATTHEW 5:1-12

Jesus gave this sermon on a hillside near Capernaum, and it is believed that this “Sermon on the Mount” probably lasted several days. Jesus broke through the traditional view of the law and talked about the attitudes of men. He stressed that it is as important to be, as to do. We might even call them “The Be-Attitudes” of Christianity. Tremendous crowds were following Jesus, he was the talk of everyone. He preached with such simpleness and yet with much authority.

The disciples were Jesus’ closest companions, and all of this attention certainly must have made them feel important, popular and maybe even prideful. Being with Jesus gave them plenty of notoriety, as well as being faith healers of a sort. Jesus warned them about the temptations they would face as his associates, and some think his sermon on the mount may have been directed to his disciples, as well as everyone else in the crowd.

We hear a lot of comments today that if you follow Jesus’ teaching, you will be successful, healthy, wealthy and wise. Jesus really tells us to expect not fame or fortune; but to expect mourning, hunger, and persecution. Jesus tells us not to look for our reward in this life. We will be rewarded but not necessarily here on earth. The beatitudes are a standard of conduct for all Christian believers. There is a strong contrast in values. The kingdom values deal with eternal life and worldly values deal with what is temporary. They contrast the superficial faith of the Pharisees with the real faith Jesus wants.

Today we are faced with the same challenge. We need to really take a look at our values and see if they are worldly values or kingdom values. The beatitudes cannot be a multiple choice, pick what you want and leave the rest. To be a real follower of Christ these have to be your be-attitudes.

 

Applications

The first reading talks about a day of warm healing for the humble and a day of wrath for the proud. The second reading shows us how God has chosen ordinary people to be eligible for salvation. In the Gospel, we hear the attitudes of Christ are to be our attitudes.

This week, let us reach out and give comfort to someone in our family. It might be nothing more than a letter of sympathy or a get well card. It could also be visiting someone who has lost a loved one and who is lonely.

 

THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

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

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

 

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

1. What lands has he degraded? See if you can locate this on      your bible map Isaiah 8:23

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Isaiah 58:10

John 8:12

Acts 26:18

Romans 13:12‑14.

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

 

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

 

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

 

David (Psalm 16:7‑11)

Mary (Luke 1:46-47)

John the Baptist (John 3:29‑30)

Paul (Philippians 1:18)

 

8. What had burdened them? Isaiah 9:3

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

1 Corinthians 5:4

Philippians 2:2‑4

Colossians 2:2

 

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

 

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

 

1. __________________________ John 1:36, 41

 

2. __________________________ John 1:42

 

3. __________________________ Acts 18:24‑25

 

4. __________________________ 1 Corinthians 1:1

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

FOURTH DAY             READ MATTHEW 4:12‑23               GOSPEL

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

He _________________them, and ______________ they abandoned

their boat and _______________to_________________him.

 

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

 

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

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ISAIAH 8:23‑9:3

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

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

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

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

 

                   I CORINTHIANS 1:10‑13, 17

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

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

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

 

MATTHEW 4:12‑23

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

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

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

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

 

 

Application

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

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

THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

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

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

 

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

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

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY READ ISAIAH 49:3, 5‑6                                FIRST READING

(“My God is now my strength.”)

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

 

2. Who is being referred to as “Israel” in the following scriptures?

Genesis 35:9‑11

Exodus 4:21‑22

Exodus 5:1

 

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

 

3. Who has spoken? Isaiah 49:5

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

4. Where was “the church of God” located in this particular greeting by Paul and Sosthenes? 1 Corinthians 1:2 See whether you can locate this on your bible map

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

FOURTH DAY READ JOHN 1:29‑34    GOSPEL

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY                       READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ISAIAH 49:3, 5‑6

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

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

 

1 CORINTHIANS 1:1‑3

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

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

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

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

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

 

JOHN 1:29‑34

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

Application

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

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