Category Archives: Bible Study Lessons

PENTECOST (June 9th) – CYCLE C

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THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

By Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

BEFORE YOU BEGIN: 

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

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

 

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings. 

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

  

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

 

 

SECOND DAY              READ ACTS 2:1-11          FIRST READING 

           (“All were filled with the Holy Spirit”) 

  1. What day had come and where were the disciples gathered? Acts 2:1

  

  1. What day was Pentecost celebrated after the Passover, what are other names for it? Leviticus 23:15-16, Deuteronomy 9:10, Exodus 23:16 and Numbers 28:26.

  

  1. What suddenly happened from up in the sky, and where was it heard? Acts 2:2

  

  1. Read the following scripture, and tell what the Spirit gives to a person? Ezekiel 37:9, 14

  

  1. What appeared, and what did it do? Acts 2:3

  

  1. What was Jesus’ promise just before he ascended to heaven?      Acts 1:5, 8

  

  1. With what were all filled, and how did they express themselves? Acts 2:4

  

  1. What did the Spirit prompt them to do? Acts 2:4, Acts 4:31

  

  1. Who was staying in Jerusalem at the time, and what did they hear? Acts 2:5-6

  

  1. About what were they confused? Acts 2:6

  

  1. What was their reaction? What did they ask, and about what were they so amazed? Acts 2:7-11

  

Personal – How can your family or friends identify the Spirit of God’s presence in you? What comes forth from your mouth, and what do you need to do so people will be astonished by your words?

 

 

THIRD DAY       READ 1 CORINTHIANS 12:3-7, 12-13     SECOND READING 

(“No one can say “Jesus is Lord,” except in the Holy Spirit.”) 

  1. What is Paul telling the brothers that you cannot do in the Spirit of God, and what can be said only in the     Holy Spirit? 1 Corinthians 12:3

  

  1. What is there different, but with the same Spirit?      1 Corinthians 12:4

  

  1. There are different ministries and works but the same God who accomplishes what? 1 Corinthians 12:5-6

  

  1. To each person the manifestation of the Spirit is given for what reason? 1 Corinthians 12:7

 

  1. In what gifts should you try to be rich?      1 Corinthians 14:12.

  

  1. Fill in the following blanks: The body is____ and has ______members, but all the members________ though they      are, are___________ body; and so it is with Christ.      1 Corinthians 12:12

  

  1. In the one Spirit, who were baptized into the one body? 1 Corinthians 12:13

  

  1. What have all of us been given to drink?      1 Corinthians 12:13

  

  1. Into whom have we been baptized? Galatians 3:27

  

  1. When were you chosen and sealed with the Holy Spirit?     Ephesians 1:13

  

Personal – From the above scriptures, how can you identify the manifestation of the Spirit in your life, and in those you come in contact with?   Reread 1 Corinthians 12:3, and take note of what comes forth from your mouth this week.

 

 

FOURTH DAY             READ JOHN 20:19-23                GOSPEL 

                 (“Receive the Holy Spirit.”) 

  1. Why did the disciples lock the doors of the place where they were?   John 20:19

  

  1. Who came and stood before them, and what did he say to them? John 20:19

  

  1. When he had said this, what did he show them? John 20:20

  

  1. What did the disciples do at the sight of the Lord?      John 20:20

  

Personal – In what way has our Lord appeared to you when you have been gathered with others praying, and what has been your response?

  

  1. What did Jesus say again and what is his gift to you?     John 20:21, John 14:27

  

  1. Whom has the Father sent, and who sends you? John 20:21

  

  1. What did Jesus do to the disciples, and what did they receive? John 20:22

  

  1. How did the Lord God form man, and how did he give him life? Genesis 2:7

  

  1. If you forgive men’s sin, what happens to them, and if you hold them bound, what happens? John 20:23

  

  1. What did Jesus say on the cross to the Father, and whom should we imitate? Luke 23:34, 1 John 2:1, 6

  

Personal – How do others see, spiritually and physically, the breath of his life in you? How do others see you living out your sign of baptism through repentance, which means change? How do others see you as you practice forgiveness of others, and ask others to forgive you? How often do you feel the need for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and why?


 

FIFTH DAY        READ PSALM 104:1, 24, 29-31, 34 

     (“When you send forth your spirit, they are created.”) 

Read and meditate on Psalm 104:1, 24, 29-31, 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 

                         ACTS 2:1-11 

     In today’s readings we celebrate the Feast of “Pentecost,” which means fifty (50). This was a feast that was celebrated about fifty days after Passover and was a feast of thanksgiving for the harvest. The first fruits of the crop were offered to God that day. All Jewish men were expected to come to the temple for the feast. The city was usually filled to overflowing, and it was fitting that this day was chosen as the day the Holy Spirit descended on the Apostles. 

     Today is, in reality, the birthday of the church, and the Christian religion was to be a church for the whole world. The old law was given by God to Moses for the Jews only. The new law, given by Christ and confirmed by the power of the Holy Spirit, was for all peoples. That means you, and that means today, right where you are. The very fact that you are reading this Bible Study is proof that the power of the Holy Spirit is drawing you near to him. 

     Let today be the day that you fall upon your knees and invite Jesus Christ to come into your heart and become the Lord of your life. Take a few moments and confess to the Lord all that is twisted with you, and then ask him to let his Holy Spirit fill you with the power and peace that surpasses all understanding. The celebration of Pentecost is for you as well as it was for the Jews in today’s passage. Let the power of the Holy Spirit flow through you, and you will enjoy that same gift that the Apostles had, the gift of speaking in tongues. 

     The signs and wonders of that incredible day brought huge crowds of Jews in huge crowds to the place where the Apostles were staying. This was the day chosen for the Apostles to go forward and make disciples of all nations. We are called also to go forward and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). Let us remember, the Jews celebrated the feast of the harvest on Pentecost. Jesus’ Holy Spirit breathed life on the universal church on the Feast of Pentecost, or the Feast of Harvest. 

     We are called today to harvest the crop of souls for the Lord. The Lord needs some good laborers to work in the vineyard. Are you ready to join the workers?  

 

                   1 CORINTHIANS 12:3-7, 12-13 

     In this passage, we see that the gifts of the Holy Spirit were given for the good of the whole community to help build up the body of Christ. We should not refuse to use the gifts of the Holy Spirit nor claim them as our own. Paul clearly warns against listening to false teachers and shows us how to check out their credentials. We are to find out what they teach about Christ. 

     We see people today who mock Jesus Christ, not only with their words, but in the way they live. We see people using their gifts to split communities apart, and then trying to tell us that they are only doing God’s will. Anyone can claim to speak for God, and we need only to look at some of the leaders in some countries, and we see a lot of false messiahs running around. God has given us many different gifts, but we must remember they all come from the same Spirit, and they are to be used to help the community or church. They will know we are Christians by the way we love and help one another. 

     Paul compares the body of Christ to a human body. Every part is an individual, and has a specific job to do. In their differences, all of the parts must work together for the good of the whole body. Jesus Christ is the head, and the rest of us make up the body of Christ. It is very important that we are not too proud of our abilities, and we must not compare ourselves with one another. We are called to use our different gifts together, to spread the “Good News” to a world that is filled with “bad news.” The church, which is the people who believe that “Jesus is Lord,” must be united in its belief in Christ. It must not let its leaders or members use any gifts to cause divisions or strife. 

     Faith in Christ is the core of Christian unity. We are one body, with one spirit that is united in Christ with the Father through the power of the Holy Spirit. When we were baptized into the Christian Faith, the Holy Spirit took up residence in us and we became the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16). You, by your baptism, have been born into God’s family, and our common goal is faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

 

 

                        JOHN 20:19-23 

     Today’s Gospel passage reveals to us the incredible gift of the Holy Spirit being given publicly to the disciples of Jesus by Jesus himself. This is a tremendous feast day in the church. We look back, and we see that Advent was a time to prepare for the Incarnation of God (God becoming man). Christmas was the happening of this great Incarnation act. We then moved into Lent and began to prepare ourselves for the sufferings endured by Christ on our behalf during his holy week. We celebrated victory in Jesus’ triumph over death which guaranteed our union with him in heaven.  

     Today, we celebrate in Pentecost the Holy Spirit coming to abide within his church. This means abiding in you, in me, and all believers of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit gives the power to preserve, teach, explain, and spread the gospel of “Good News,” which is a message of hope and love for everyone in the world. 

     The Holy Spirit that came upon the disciples and all of the people in the upper room is the same Spirit that wants to abide in us. We can let him come into our heart, right now, by getting down on our knees and confessing our sins to the Lord. Invite him to come and take up residence in your heart, his temple, and let him take control of your life. His power will flow through you, and your life will never be the same again. His peace will be your peace, it will be a peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). 

     The power from the Holy Spirit helps all of us live a life of holiness and wholeness. We need to always remember that God’s plan for each one of us is to live a life that is abundant and full (John 10:10). The Holy Spirit gives us the power in the name of Jesus to bind Satan and his cohorts, and in his Name, to loosen the Spirit of Life which is the Lord Jesus himself… to heal, to restore and, to forgive. We can release others from the bondage of sin by our compassion and forgiveness.  

     We are more than conquerors; we are children of the Living God, we are called to set the captives free and give sight to the blind. We do that by forgiving them, and loving them through the power of the Holy Spirit, and in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Pentecost – the harvest is now, the Kingdom of God is at hand, come and be fishers of men. I pray that the Holy Spirit today will fill you with his love and power, and fill all of us with gratitude for all that God has done for us.

 

Application 

     The first reading tells us that we celebrate the birthday of the church when we celebrate “Pentecost.” The second reading reveals that the gifts of the Holy Spirit are to be used to uplift the community. The Gospel reveals to us that the Holy Spirit gives us power in the name of Jesus. This power is a healing power. 

     Let us take a long look at our gifts, and then share them with others this week. You might visit someone who is sick, or visit someone in jail. You might write a letter to someone who is lonely, or cook someone a special meal. Do something beautiful for God this week, and keep on giving your gift away. God will never let you be without a gift – try it, you’ll like it.

7th SUNDAY IN EASTER (June 2nd) – CYCLE C

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THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

by Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

BEFORE YOU BEGIN:

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

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

 

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

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

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY        READ ACTS 7:55-60         FIRST READING

(“Lord, do not hold this sin against them.”)

  1. Who was filled with the Holy Spirit, and when he looked up to heaven, what did he see?  Acts 6:8, Acts 7:55

 

  1. With what did Ananias tell Paul (Saul) to be filled, and who did he say sent him? Acts 9:17

 

  1. With what were the disciples filled? Acts 13:52

 

  1. What are you not to do, and with what are you to be filled? Ephesians 5:18

 

Personal – How have you experienced the in-filling of the Holy Spirit?

 

  1. What did Stephen say when he looked up and saw the heavens open?  Acts 7:56

 

  1. What happened to Jesus after John baptized him and the heavens opened?   Matthew 3:16-17

 

  1. How did the people react to Stephen, and what did they do to him?   Acts 7:57-58

 

  1. At whose feet did the witnesses lay their cloaks down and what did Stephen call out as they were stoning him?Acts 7:58-59

 

  1. What did Jesus say as they were crucifying him, and what were his last words?   Luke 23:34, 46

 

  1. What did Stephen say to the Lord just before he died? Acts 7:60

 

  1. How are we to treat our enemies? Matthew 5:44

 

Personal – Are you holding anything against a family member, friend, or neighbor over a past hurt?   Pray about it and do what the Lord is telling you to do?

 

 

THIRD DAY     READ REVELATION 22:12-14, 16-17, 20  SECOND READING

(“Let the one who thirsts come forward, and the one who wants it receive the gift of life-giving water.”)

  1. When the Lord comes, what will he bring? Revelation 22:12

 

  1. What did Jesus tell his disciples, with whom will he come, and how will he repay us?   Matthew 16:24-28

 

  1. Who did the Lord say he was?  Revelation 1:8, 22:13

 

  1. Of what is there only one? Isaiah 44:6

 

  1. Who are blessed, what have they done, and to what do they have a right?   Revelation 22:14

 

  1. Where is the tree of life, and to whom does the Spirit speak?    Revelation 2:7, Genesis 2:9

 

  1. Who does Jesus say he is, and whom did he send to give this testimony to the churches?    Revelation 22:16

 

  1. What does the Spirit and the bride say, who is to come forward, and who is to receive the gift of life-giving water?    Revelation 22:17

 

  1. Who gives life-giving water? John 4:10

 

  1. What does the one who gives this testimony say? Revelation 22:20

 

Personal – Do you thirst for the life-giving water that only Jesus can give you, or do you see someone, whom you know, who is thirsty?  How can you answer the invitation to “come,” or how can you be an instrument in satisfying someone else’s thirst?

 

 

FOURTH DAY              READ JOHN 17:20-26           GOSPEL

(“…because you loved me before the foundation of the world.”)

  1. For whom did Jesus say he was praying? John 17:6-9, 20

 

  1. Why does Jesus pray for them, and what does he say about the Father?   John 17:21, also see John 10:30 & 14:10

 

  1. What did Jesus give to those who kept his Father’s word? John 17:22

 

  1. How are we brought to perfection, and whom does the Father love?   John 17:23 and also John 16:27

 

  1. Why did God send his Son into the world? John 3:16-17

 

  1. When did the Father love Jesus, and what are we to Jesus from the Father?    John 17:24

 

  1. What has Jesus prepared for us, and how will we get there? John 14:2-3

 

  1. Whom does the Father love and honor? John 12:23, 26

 

  1. Whom does Jesus and his disciples know and who does not know him?  What does Jesus call his Father?  John 17:25

 

  1. Whom does the world love, and what will they do to you on account of Jesus?   John 15:19-21

 

  1. What did Jesus make known, what is he making known, and for what reason?    John 17:26

 

  1. What was kept by those to whom Jesus revealed the Father? John 17:6

 

Personal – What priority have keeping God’s Word and speaking God’s Word had in your life?   Evaluate last week and see what you spent most of your time doing and saying.  How do others see the love of Jesus in you?

 

 

FIFTH DAY           READ PSALM 97:1-2, 6-7, 9

(“The heavens proclaim his justice, and all people see his glory.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 97:1-2, 6-7, 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

ACTS 7:55-60

The Jewish leaders were enraged by Stephen’s accusation that they were murderers of the prophets and destroyers of God’s laws. He accused them of even murdering the Messiah.  Stephen’s words of seeing Jesus standing at God’s right hand supported Jesus’ claim and angered the Jewish leaders.  In their guilt and rage, they would not tolerate Stephen’s words, so they mobbed him and killed him.

Today people may not kill us for witnessing about Christ, but they will let us know they do not want to hear the truth and will often try to silence us.   In many lands, those who try to protect the rights of the unborn children against abortion are ridiculed, beaten, and sent to jail.  These Christians are responding by not standing by and doing nothing while innocents are being slaughtered (Proverbs 24:11).  Keep honoring God in your words, your worship and in your actions. You may experience the rejection of many people to your message, but some will turn to Christ and your effort will be noticed more than you realize.

Paul is introduced into today’s reading (verse 58) as a murderer and then later we see him as a changed, repentant apostle of the Lord. This tells us that the power of God’s love can change anyone who is open to his call. Paul was tremendously qualified to preach to the Jews because he too had once opposed Jesus Christ and his Christian followers. He understood the opposition and was, therefore, able to be compassionate and forgiving, as well as encouraging them to become free in Christ. Paul never forgot that day when he watched in silence and let the evil actions of those men destroy the life of a very holy man. He knew that he could never be silent again, and he spent the rest of his life preaching the good news of Jesus Christ, Lord and Savior of the whole world. We need to speak out in Jesus’ name and let people see in us the holiness of St. Stephen.

 

REVELATION 22:12-14, 16-17, 20

The Risen Christ is coming, and he makes two powerful claims, that there will be a final judgment and this will not be confined to non-believers. The eternal destiny of a true Christian believer is secure, but Jesus will look at how they handled gifts, opportunities, and responsibilities in their lifetime. He then tells us that he is complete. There is no beginning or end to his existence. Christ is telling us that he is the source and he needs nothing else. He is the alpha and the omega, the beginning and the end.  The Jews said that since God was the beginning, he received his power from no one; since he was the middle, he shared his power with no one; and since he was the end, he never handed his power over to anyone.

Those who washed their robes in the blood of Christ were purified and have the right of entry into the “City of God” or the “New Jerusalem.”  Jesus, through his cross, has provided that grace by which man can be forgiven; but man has to hunger and thirst for that grace, and then he has to make use of that grace. Those who enter into the “Holy City” or heaven are the ones who have accepted Jesus as Lord. In the new and eternal life, people will eat from the tree of life because their sins have been removed by Christ’s death and resurrection and they will live forever.

If we have confessed our sins, repented, and accepted Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior, we will have the right to eat from this tree.  The church has been the faithful guardian that has protected us, taught us about Jesus Christ, and has presented him to us in sacrament and word.  The church, in the name of Jesus, through the power of the Holy Spirit brings glory to God the Father by extending the invitation to the whole world to come to Jesus.

 

JOHN 17:20-26

Jesus completes his prayer to the Father. He began by asking his Father to glorify him so that he may glorify the Father. He told his Father that he did everything that was asked of him, and now the hour of glory had come. His glory would be the cross; it was not his will but he obeyed his Father’s will even unto death on a cross (Phil. 2:2-11). Then he prayed for his disciples and asked God to keep them strong in their faith.

In today’s passage Jesus is praying for us. In this prayer, we see his confidence both in his Father and for those who are going to be Christ-followers. He knew that in a very short time he was going to be betrayed, arrested and killed, and he still was confident that his disciples would carry on his name. He was praying for the new church to come. He prayed for a unity of heart, not administration, not a unity of ecclesiastical organization. He prayed for a unity of personal relationships.

We have seen the unity between Jesus and his Father was love and obedience. Jesus prayed for a unity based on the relationships of heart to heart, not denomination to denomination. Jesus prayed that a unity would exist in which people loved each other because they loved him.  Christian unity overcomes all differences because it joins people together in love. It is more natural for people to be divided then united.  It is more natural for people to fly apart then to come together. But real unity between all Christians would require a “supernatural” solution, and that solution is loving one another as Jesus has loved us.

 

Application

In the first reading we see that evil can only succeed when good men do nothing. In the second reading we see Jesus is the beginning, middle and the end. The Gospel shows unity does not have to mean uniformity.

This week, bring unity into your own heart by praying that God will change your attitude toward others who do not believe and practice their faith in God like you. Then look around you and see who is not of the same faith as you, and then let them experience your respect, your kindness, and your generosity.  Then love them just as Jesus loves you. You will be amazed at the power and result of your witness of Christ.

ASCENSION OF THE LORD (May 30 and June 2) – CYCLE C

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THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

by Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

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

 

FIRST DAY                                                      Reread last weeks readings. 

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

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY                                      READ ACTS 1:1-11 

(“He presented Himself alive to them….”)

  1. What was dealt with before Jesus was taken up to heaven? Acts 1:1

 

  1. How did Jesus instruct the Apostles He had chosen? Acts 1:2

 

  1. After Jesus had suffered what did He show His Apostles and how did He show them? Acts 1:3

 

Personal – How have you been convinced that Jesus is alive today?

 

  1. Why did Jesus tell His disciples not to leave Jerusalem? Acts 1:4

 

  1. What did John baptize with and what would happen in a few days? Acts 1:5

 

  1. What did the Apostles ask Jesus and what did He tell them? Acts 1:6-7

 

  1. What did Jesus tell them they would receive when the Holy Spirit came down on them and what would that make them? Acts 1:8

 

  1. As the Apostles were looking on what happened to Jesus and how did it happen? Acts 1:9

 

  1. As they were looking up who appeared to them and what did they say? Acts 1:10-11

 

  1. How will the Lord come down from heaven and what will happen to the living, the believers in Him? 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

 

Personal – How are you preparing for Jesus’ return?

 

 

THIRD DAY                                   READ EPHESIANS 1:17-23                      SECOND READING 

(“What is the surpassing greatness of His power for us who believe?”)

  1. What is Paul asking our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, to give you? Ephesians 1:17

 

  1. What three things does he want your innermost vision, the eyes of your hearts, to know?    Ephesians 1:18-19

 

  1. What do your eyes represent, and if your eyes are good what will your body be? Matthew 6:22

 

  1. What is a lamp to our feet and a light for our path? Psalm 119:105

 

  1. What is it like, this immeasurable scope of His power in us who believe? Ephesians 1:19-20

 

  1. Where is Christ seated? Ephesians 1:20-21

 

  1. What has God put beneath Jesus’ feet and what has He made Him over the Church, His body? Ephesians 1:22

 

  1. Who is the head of every man; who is the head of the woman and who is head of Christ? 1 Corinthians 11:3

 

  1. There is one what? Ephesians 4:4

 

  1. How is the body of Christ built up? Ephesians 4:11-12

 

Personal – How have the eyes of your heart been enlightened to the surpassing greatness of His power in you?

 

 

FOURTH DAY                                    READ LUKE 24:46-53                                             GOSPEL

(“…behold I am sending the promise of my Father upon you;)

  1. What did Jesus say to His disciples? Luke 24:46

 

  1. What would be preached in His name and where would it begin? Luke 24:47

 

  1. What does Psalm 32:5 say will happen if you acknowledge and confess your sins?

 

  1. What did Jesus tell His disciples they witnessed? Luke 24:48

 

  1. What was Jesus sending His disciples and why were they to wait in the city? Luke 24:49

 

  1. What did the Father promise and to whom was this promise made? Acts 2:38-39

 

  1. What are we to cloth ourselves with? Colossians 3:12

 

  1. Where did Jesus lead His disciples and what did He do? Luke 24:50

 

  1. While Jesus was blessing His disciples what happened to Him? Luke 24:51

 

  1. What did the disciples do? How did they return to Jerusalem and what did they continually stay at the temple doing? Luke 24:52-53

 

Personal – When did you receive the promise of the Father and what has He commissioned you to do? What things have you been a witness to and what have you been clothed with?

 

 

FIFTH DAY                                     READ PSALM 47:2-3, 6-9

(“God mounts His throne amid shouts of joy;”)

Read and mediate on Psalm 47:2-3, 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

ACTS 1:1-11

This passage begins with Luke addressing the Roman official called Theophilus. Luke was implying that Jesus’ work continues in Acts through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Acts is called by many the fifth Gospel in that it tells about the lives and events of the new Church. Jesus showed the Apostles after His suffering and death His many wounds. He gave them many convincing proofs that He was alive. He told them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the gift that His Father had promised them. He told them that they would then receive the Holy Spirit and they would receive power and become His witnesses to the ends of the earth. He then was taken up before their very eyes and a cloud hid Him from their sight.

Today, He is still alive in the Power that lives within His Church and within you as a member of the community of His disciples. You have become a Temple of that Power by your Baptism and Confirmation. The Power that split the Red Sea for Moses lives within you. The Power that impregnated Mary with Jesus lives within you. The Power that baptized Jesus in the Jordan River lives within you. The Power that raised Jesus from the dead lives within you. He is alive and He liv es in you waiting to be given freely to the hurt, the lost, the sick, the lonely, the captive throughout the ends of the earth.

 

EPHESIANS 1:17-23

In this passage St. Paul is praying and giving thanks for the gifts that have been given to the believers. We today are reminded to thank God for the gifts of wisdom and knowledge that are available to us today.   We grow in wisdom and knowledge through prayer, scripture, sacraments and Catholic Church teaching. This follows an order of discipline and humility.

Our hope for the future is not an ambiguous feeling, on the contrary, it is a complete assurance of victory through the power of the Holy Spirit and in the name of Jesus Christ. We see many on all sides fearing nuclear disaster, computer meltdown and the collapse of morals. We must always remember we belong to the God of the Universe, who raised Jesus Christ from the dead. God’s great power is available to help us today through the Holy Spirit in the community of faith. Scripture tells us that with God nothing is impossible (Philippians 4:13). Paul tells us in scripture that we do not have to fear anything or anyone because nothing can separate us from God and His love (Romans 8:31-39).

When we talk about the fullness of the Catholic Church, we are talking about Christ filling the Church with gifts and blessings. The Church itself is the full expression of Christ who Himself is the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:19). The image of the body shows the Church’s unity. We should not attempt to work, serve or worship on our own. There are no Lone Rangers in the Body of Christ. Each one of us is involved with all the others as we go about doing God’s work on earth.

 

 

LUKE 24:46-53

We celebrate on this special feast day of the Church the Ascension of the Lord. This is the time when Jesus was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God.

Over the centuries many believers overcome by the awareness of their own sins have found the words of today’s passage a strong ray of hope. Jesus opened up their minds to understand the scriptures. The Holy Spirit does this in our lives today when we study God’s Holy Word (written testimony) and Sacred Tradition (oral testimony), especially as presented in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The message of good news for the whole world today is that Jesus died to ransom the soul of every living person. He thirsts for you. He is waiting for you to confess, to repent, and to receive His mercy and forgiveness. To confess our sin is to agree with God that He is right to declare that what we have done is sinful and we are wrong. To abandon that sin is to repent or change, which is to turn away from sin and turn back to God, through the power of the Holy Spirit. Then we can trust in Him to forgive us and make us whole again. He told His disciples that they were already witnesses to His mercy and forgiveness. He promises to send them what His Father has promised, and that was the gift of the Holy Spirit. His promise was revealed to the disciples in the upper room (Acts 1:8) and that Holy Spirit is the same Spirit that resides in your Temple. Your body is the Temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19) and you are to witness to the ends of the earth with the same power as the disciples.

Jesus physical presence left the disciples when He lifted up His hands, blessed them and was taken up into Heaven (Acts 1:9). You receive this blessing each time you attend Mass. They fell down to do him reverence, then returned to Jerusalem filled with joy. There they were to be found in the temple constantly speaking the praises of God.

 

Application

The first reading tells us as the Apostles were looking on, Jesus was lifted up and says, “you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you”. In the second reading God seated Jesus at His right hand in the heavens and gave Him as head over all things to the Church, and in the Gospel, we are told that the Message of Good News is that Jesus died to ransom the souls of the whole world.

This week let us go to someone in our family, our community or our parish, to pray with them and to proclaim the Good News to them that Jesus is alive. Repent of any wrongdoing by stopping the sinful action and turning back to God. Receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist frequently and this will give you the grace needed in order for you to live your life for Christ.

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (May 26) – CYCLE C

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THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

by Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

 

BEFORE YOU BEGIN: 

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

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

 

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings. 

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

  

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

 

SECOND DAY           READ ACTS 15:1-2, 22-29       FIRST READING 

 (“It is the decision of the Holy Spirit and of us not to place on you any burden beyond these necessities,”) 

  1. What did some men from Judea begin to teach the brothers in Antioch? Acts 15:1

       

  1. Where did circumcision originate among the Jews?      Genesis 17:1-14

       

  1. Among whom did this teaching cause dissension? Acts 15:2 

 

  1. What did Paul, Barnabas, and some of the brothers decide to do about this dissension and where did they go? Acts 15:2-3 

 

  1. What caused the controversy between them? Acts 15:5, 11 

 

  1. What was resolved by the apostles and the presbyters, with whom were they in agreement with, and what were they to deliver? Acts 15:22-23 

 

  1. After they sent their greetings, what was it they said they had heard? Acts 15:24

  

  1. What did they unanimously resolve to do? Acts 15:25

  

  1. To whom had they dedicated their cause and, how were they to convey this message? Acts 15:26-27

  

  1. Whose decision was it not to lay on them any burden beyond that which is strictly necessary? Acts 15:28

  

  1. What four things were they advised to avoid? Acts 15:29

  

Personal – In what way have church members, not under the authority of the church, put a burden on you? How could you resolve this?

  

THIRD DAY        READ REVELATIONS 21:10-14,22-23  SECOND READING

  (“I saw no temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb.”)

  1. Who was carried away and how was he carried away? Rev. 1:1, Rev. 21:10

  

  1. Where was he taken, what was he shown, and what did the city look like? Rev 21:10-11

  

  1. Who is the designer and maker of this city? Hebrews 11:10 

 

  1. Describe the following from Revelation 21:12: 

Its walls________________________________________________

How many gates on the walls?_____________________________

Who were stationed at the gates?

What was written on the gates?

Whose names were written there?___________________________

  

  1. Who were the twelve tribes of Israel and where were the gates located? Ezekiel 48:30-35, Revelation 21:13 

 

  1. The wall of the city had twelve courses of stones as its      foundation. Whose names were on them?      Revelation 21:14

  

  1. Who were the twelve apostles of the Lamb and who is the Lamb? Matthew 10:2-4, John 1:29, Acts 1:20-26 

 

  1. What did John not see, and what did he see as a temple? Revelation 21:22

  

  1. Of what did the city have no need of and what gave it light? Revelation 21:23

  

  1. Who is our lamp and who is the light for our path? Rev 1:23, Psalm 119:105, and John 1:1,14

  

Personal – Picture what heaven will look like from what you have just read and studied. How do you think you will respond when you enter its gates? In what way have you been enlightened here and now? How do your family, friends, work acquaintances, or people you come in contact with during the day see the light of Christ in you as his walking, living temple?

 

 

FOURTH DAY             READ JOHN 14:23-29                GOSPEL 

       (“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.”)                                    

  1. If you love Jesus, to what will you be true, who will love him, and who will come to him? John 14:23

  

  1. Notice in verse 23, it says “we will come to him.” To whom is this verse referring, when it says we?     John 14:11, 17, 26

  

  1. Where will the Spirit make his dwelling place?     John 14:17,23

  

  1. Who is it that does not love Jesus, and where does the Word you hear come from? John 14:24

  

  1. While Jesus was with them, what did he tell them?     John 14:26

  

Personal – As you began this study did you read or pray John 14:26. Of what has he reminded you?

  

  1. What is Jesus farewell to you and his gift to you, and what does he tell you not to be? John 14:27

 

  1. What does Jesus say in verse 28 of John 14?

  

  1. If you love Jesus, what would you do when he goes to the Father? John 14:28

    

  1. Who is greater than Jesus? John 14:28, John 10:29

  

  1. Why was he telling them before this took place?      John 14:29

  

Personal – In what specific way have you obeyed the command to “love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12), in your family, with your friends, at work or school? In what way have you shown your love for the Father?

 

 

FIFTH DAY           READ PSALM 67:2-3, 5-6, 8 

             (“For you govern the peoples justly,”)            

Read and meditate on Psalm 67:2-3, 5-6, 8.

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

                      

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY 

                           ACTS 15:1-2, 22-29 

     Christianity would have become nothing other than a sect of Jews if the condition that new Christians had to be circumcised first was upheld. There were certain Jews who could never forget their positions as the chosen people. They were willing to accept Gentiles into the church provided they were circumcised first. Paul and Barnabas argued strongly against this attitude and a violent collision seemed inevitable.  

     An appeal was made to Jerusalem, the headquarters of the church, for a ruling. The principle at stake was quite simple. Was the gift of God for the chosen few or for the entire world? Was the gift of God a privilege or a responsibility? Certain Pharisees who had become Christian insisted that all converts must be circumcised and keep the Mosaic law.  

     The Mosaic law of Moses stated that on the eighth day the flesh of a male child’s foreskin shall be circumcised (Leviticus 12:3). This was submitting of one’s flesh to the covenant that originated between God and Abraham (Gen. 17:14). Peter stood up to the apostles and elders and told them that the new covenant is fulfilled by believing the word of the Gospel.  

     God who knows the heart bore witness to them giving the Gentiles the Holy Spirit, just as he also did to us. This was a circumcision of faith, a cutting off of one’s pride and submitting to the will of the Lord. Peter told them that they were saved through the Grace of the Lord Jesus and so also were the Gentiles saved the same way.    

     The church leaders stated that the men who disturbed the brothers were not given instruction, or authority, to do what they did. The church leaders, inspired by the Holy Spirit, decided to send authorized representatives with Paul and Barnabas. They did not want to lay upon them a greater burden than the essentials which are: they shall abstain from things sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals, and from illicit sexual union.

   Today we still can look to the essentials for guidance for our daily living. We are not to sacrifice ourselves to idols such as jobs, power, sex, or money. We are called to stop eating and drinking ourselves into gluttony and sickness. We are called to be chaste in our actions as well as in our thoughts. We must turn away from illicit sexual union such as homosexuality, fornication, pornography, adultery, pre-marital sex, etc.  

     The controversy about keeping the law is still with us today. There still exists divisions between believers and church authorities. The authoritative teachings of the church are meant to protect the people as well as to preserve the true deposit of faith.

 

                   REVELATION 21:10-14, 22-23 

     John draws much of his imagery from Isaiah Chapter 65:17-24. In this chapter a new heaven is created, things of the past are not remembered, and there is rejoicing and no sadness or pain. John is not concerned about interspace travel or geophysics. Heaven exists because of the moral relationship between God and man.  

     God has taken the initiative and is the cause of the new order or as we call it the “New Jerusalem” or Heaven. God began by walking with man in the garden of paradise. He sought to dwell near man in the ark and the temple. He made man the holy of holies through his Incarnation. But these former things all passed away when he begins to dwell with them in the immediate personal intimacy of the “New Jerusalem.” John has, with much phraseology and repetition, attempted to convey the incomparable beauty of heaven through the use of earthly descriptions.  

     The radiance of Christ in his eternal home is so dazzling that the lights of the galaxy are not needed. The holy of holies was a cube twenty cubits high, wide, and deep. The cities of Babylon and Nineveh were square. Can you imagine a city as high as it is wide and long. One side would extend from Boston to Chicago (1500 miles). A fence 216′ high would hardly seem proportional around this gigantic cube of the heavenly city. We can see that earthly details pale when matched against the concept of spiritual symbolism. The author’s main intent is to convey that it is the Divine Presence, radiant and enlivening, that transforms the holy Jerusalem into purest splendor. God began with Paradise. John ends his portrayal of the celestial city with details borrowed from the paradise story. We might all picture ourselves as believers.

 

                         JOHN 14:23-29  

     Before his passion and death, Jesus spoke words of comfort, love and obedience to his disciples. These words brought a sense of serenity and helped them to not be afraid. Jesus promised to provide for them by leaving with them “the Counselor,” “The Holy Spirit.” Jesus told them that the Father would send them the Holy Spirit in his name. He told them that the Holy Spirit would teach them all things and help them to remember all that he taught them (John 14:26). We have been made by faith, through Gods action in the sacrament of Baptism, temples of the Holy Spirit.  

     Today, living a life conforming to the prompting of the Holy Spirit is not easy. We have so many distractions in our every day living, that only the Holy Spirit could empower us to remember with clarity the obedience that’s needed to walk the Christian walk. We need only to look around us and we can see very easily that unless we control our selfish desires and concerns by submitting them to the word of the Lord, they run wild, quickly overcoming any desire to know and experience God’s love.  

     We can’t split our desires evenly between God and the world; we must first seek the kingdom of God (Mt 6:33). We need to ask the Holy Spirit to teach us more about the healing, saving love of Jesus and the Kingdom of God. Pray that you will be open to receive the prompting of the Holy Spirit and to follow and experience the incredible love of Jesus.                

 

Application 

   The first reading tells us that the gift of God was not for a chosen few, but for the entire world. The second reading reveals that Heaven exists because of the moral relationship between God and man. The Gospel shows us that the power to walk the Christian walk can only come from the Holy Spirit. 

   This week, show those around you at work, at home or in school that God’s gift to you has brought you freedom of choice. Choose to love your neighbors, family and friends as yourself. With the power of the Holy Spirit, you can also choose to love your enemies. We can only do this when we seek his kingship first and then everything else is added (Mt 6:33). Remember, the Holy Spirit will teach you in all things (John 14:26).

 

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (May 19th) – CYCLE C

Posted on by

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?

 

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY             READ ACTS 14:21-27         FIRST READING 

       (“It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.”) 

  1. What did Paul and Barnabus proclaim in Derbe, what happened      there, and to where did they return? Acts   14:20-21

  

  1. What is the Good News they proclaimed? Acts 13:32-34

  

  1. What did Paul and Barnabas strengthen in the disciples, in what did they encourage them to    persevere, and what did they say was necessary? Acts     14:22

  

  1. Where does your strength come from in order to bear your share of the hardship for the Gospel and of what  are you not to be ashamed? 2 Timothy 1:8

  

  1. What did Paul and Barnabas appoint for the people, what did they do, and then where did they go? Acts   14:23-24

 

  1. What were the disciples doing when the Holy Spirit spoke to them? Acts 13:2

  

  1. Where did the disciples proclaim the Word of God?    Acts 14:25-26

  

  1. Why did Paul and Barnabus call the church together in Antioch? Acts 14:27

  

Personal – What can you report to your family or friends as to what God has done with you?

  

  1. What happened to the Gentiles who heard the Word of the Gospel and believed, and how did God purify their hearts? Acts 15:7-9

 

 

  1. For what should you pray, and how should you conduct yourself towards outsiders? Colossians 4:2-5

  

Personal – How do you approach or talk to those outside your faith? What can you do to bring the Gospel message to those around you who do not believe or know what Jesus has done for them?

 

 

THIRD DAY            READ REVELATION 21:1-5      SECOND READING 

               (“Behold I make all things new.”) 

  1. What was seen and what had passed away? Revelation 21:1 

 

  1. What dwells in the new heavens and the new earth?      2 Peter 3:13

  

  1. What was seen coming down out of heaven from God and how was it prepared? Revelation 21:2

  

  1. Of whom is the bride the wife? Revelation 21:9 

 

  1. What was heard from the throne, where is God’s dwelling, and what will they be to him? Revelation   21:3 

 

  1. What are we to the living God and what is he to us?    2 Corinthians 6:16 

 

  1. What will God wipe from his peoples eyes, of what will there be no more, and what has passed away?    Revelation 21:4 

 

  1. What is anyone who is in Christ? 2 Corinthians 5:17 

 

  1. What did the one who sat on the throne say and why did he say to write them down? Revelation 21:5 

 

  1. What are true and just? Revelation 19:1-2 

 

Personal – In what way does your life show God has made his dwelling place within you? Can you see the old and the new person? Reflect on this.

 

 

FOURTH DAY               JOHN 13:31-35                  GOSPEL 

(“As I have loved you, so you also should love one another.) 

  1. After Judas left, what did Jesus say? John 13:31 

 

  1. How do we glorify the Father? John 15:7-8 

 

  1. If God is glorified in Jesus, what will God do to Jesus? John 13:32 

 

  1. Whom did Jesus say the Father will honor or glorify?  John 12:26 

 

  1. How did Jesus glorify God on earth? John 17:4 

 

  1. What did Jesus call his disciples, and what did he say about where he was going? John 13:33 

 

  1. Where was Jesus going? John 7:33 

 

  1. What did Jesus give us, and how should we love one another? John 13:34 

 

  1. What did Jesus say about no greater love than this?  John 15:12-13 

 

  1. How will all know that you are a disciple of Jesus?   John 13:35 

 

  1. Why do we love, and who is the one who loves God?    1 John 4:19-21 

 

Personal – What do you do to show your love for God and one another?

 

 

FIFTH DAY              READ PSALM 145:8-13
(“The Lord is faithful in all his words and holy in all his works.”) 

Read and meditate on Psalm 145:8-13. 

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

                         ACTS 14:21-27  

     Paul tells us in today’s reading that honesty and the willingness to accept afflictions was going to be a strong requirement in the new church. He told them that there was no easy way and reminded them that Jesus did not come to make life easy but to make men great. Paul shows them that Christianity must be lived in fellowship. 

     One of the great fathers of the Church stated, “No man can have God for his Father unless he has the Church for his mother.” None of us will go to heaven alone; it will be because someone influenced us to seek Christ, know Christ, and be saved by Christ. To some people, the only bible they will read will be you. We are called into Christian fellowship. 

     Like a loving mother, the Church teaches, preaches, and rules her children so that they will grow up and die to themselves and live for Christ by living for others. Good parents want their children to grow up, go out and forward. The Church wants the same for her children, to grow up, go out, and bring someone back to Christ.  

     Paul tells about the problem of so many Gentiles coming into the new church. He states the friction over what a Christian is really supposed to be. Gentiles wanted to be Christians. The other side of the problem, Jews were not allowed to have anything to do with Gentiles. The church welcomed all to come into God’s family, as they are, not as someone else thought they should be. That is what being a Christian means today. So be all that you can be and be excited in who you are. You are unique, there is no one else quite like you. Remember, all that you do, and all that you say, and all that you are is being brought into perfection in direct proportion to your obedience to God’s Holy Word.

 

                       REVELATION 21:1-5 

     Today’s passage reveals that the dream of a new heaven and earth was deep in Jewish thought. Today we hear people in many lands still looking forward to a better place than what they have here on earth. Isaiah speaks of the new heaven and earth that God will make, and he calls for the people to make their lives an act of worship (Isaiah 66:22). In the new heaven and earth, there is the eternal hope of no more sorrow, no more tears; sin is defeated, darkness is no more, and joy is forever. This vision has been strongly held throughout the ages because of man’s faith in God and his inherent sense of sin.  

     The ancient people feared the sea because they believed terrible creatures came from the sea. They believed that one day the sea would not be a barrier between God and man. Their beliefs consisted of two concepts regarding the new Jerusalem. The first concept was of Greek origin. It taught that in the invisible world there existed the perfect thing or place of everything visible here on earth. That meant there was a heavenly Jerusalem of which the earthly Jerusalem was an imperfect copy. The ideal is a challenge, in that, even if in this world the imperfect can not be made perfect, it can still be worked out in the next world, because God is the source of all ideals. The second thought or concept is Jewish and it shares the many dreams of the prophets.  

     The new Jerusalem or the “Holy City” was a constant dream that inspired and sustained the Jew as he was constantly being in the process of being obliterated. The Jews never lost confidence that they were the chosen people and God would someday present them with their “Holy City,” the new Jerusalem. They expressed their hope in material things, but these were just symbols for the faithful. We see that God is to make his dwelling place with men. In the wilderness the tabernacle was a tent. Today the tabernacle of God is you. You carry him wherever you go. His power lies within you waiting to be used to make the world “The New Jerusalem.”

 

                         JOHN 13:31-35 

     When you look at the word “commitment” you think of someone giving their complete all. The glory of Jesus is the glory of commitment and that is the glory of the cross. Jesus has shown

us that the greatest glory in life is the glory which comes from sacrifice. In war time the supreme honor and glory belongs to those who lay down their lives so that others may live. History has taught us that those who have made great sacrifices have entered into great history.  

     Jesus Christ in his humility and obedience went to the cross for you and me and he brought honor and glory to God. We have found through time tested experience that obedience is the foundation of love. The most notable way a child can honor his parents is by being obedient to them. In Jesus God glories himself in the incarnation and the cross. Jesus’   love, for us shows us that there is no glory like that of being loved. Let that sink in for a moment. He died for you because he loved you just as you are, not as you should be.

     The enthronement of Christ followed his crucifixion. The crown of thorns has changed into a crown of glory and as scripture tells us “eye cannot see, ear cannot hear, nor can man even comprehend what God has in store for those who love him.” Jesus leaves us his stamp of glory and that is we are to love others as he has loved us. We will be asked to love the unlovable, the unwashable, the unkissable, the ugly, the deformed, the sick, and the people of the land. We need only to look and see how he loved. He loved deliberately, openly, unhesitant, completely, gently, unreservedly. He chose to love because simply he is love. His glory will be in you loving others as he has loved you.

 

Application 

     In the first reading it brought out to be a Christian in the new church meant equality for all. In the second reading the Holy Spirit resides in you waiting to be used to make the world “a new Jerusalem.” The Gospel shows the glory of God lies in the incarnation and the cross. 

     This week, let yourself be committed to making the world around your home, office, or school “a new Jerusalem” or “Holy City” by seeing in others the signs of Christ. Let yourself, this week, love others as Christ loves you. This especially means those in your family or those around you that you find very difficult to love. Remember, commitment means sacrifice and sacrifice means going to the cross. Your glory will be God’s glory in you. You will be his glory as he sees you loving the people around you as Jesus loves you. This will bring the “new Jerusalem” right into your heart.

  

FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER (May 12th) – CYCLE C

Posted on by

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?

  

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

 

 

SECOND DAY           READ ACTS 13:14, 43-52       FIRST READING 

   (“The disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.”) 

  1. Who arrived in Antioch, and what did they do on the Sabbath?      Acts 13:13-14

  

  1. Who followed Paul and Barnabas, and what did they urge them to do?   Acts 13:43

  

  1. To what is the grace they are to remain faithful?      Romans 3:24-25

  

  1. What did almost the whole city do on the following Sabbath, and when the Jews saw the crowd, what did they do? Acts 13:44-45

  

  1. How did Paul and Barnabas speak out, what did they say it was necessary to do, and to whom have they now turned?   Acts 13:46

 

  1. What has the Lord commanded them to be, how did the Gentiles react to this, and what did they glorify?    Acts 13:47-48

  

Personal – How has God made you an instrument of salvation to the world?

 

  1. Who came to believe, and what did the word of the Lord continue to do?   Acts 13:48-49

  

  1. Whom did the Jews incite, and what did they do to Paul and Barnabas?   Acts 13:50

  

  1. Who does not please God, and what do they try to prevent? 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16

  

  1. Why did Paul and Barnabas shake the dust from their feet, and with what were the disciples filled? Acts   13:51-52

  

  1. What did Jesus tell his disciples?   Matthew 10:14-15

  

Personal – When you gather to hear the Word of God, what is your reaction to it and to the person proclaiming it? Who are the people who proclaim the Word of God, and how can you affirm them?

 

 

THIRD DAY          READ REVELATION 7:9, 14-17     SECOND READING 

      (“…God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”) 

  1. Who had a vision of great multitudes, where were they standing, and what were they wearing and holding?      Revelation 1:1 and 7:9

  

  1. What was said by one of the elders about those wearing the robes, and how did they make their robes white?     Revelation 7:14

  

  1. What does the blood of the Lamb do for you?     Hebrews 9:13-14

  

  1. What must you do to be cleansed from sin? 1 John 1:7

  

  1. What do the multitudes do, and what will the one who sits on the throne do?   Revelation 7:15

  

  1. From what does the Lord shelter us? Psalm 31:21

  

  1. What will no longer happen to the multitudes?     Revelation 7:16, see also Isaiah 49:10

  

  1. What did Jesus tell his disciples? John 6:35

  

  1. Who will shepherd them and lead them to life-giving water, and what will God do?   Revelation 7:17

  

  1. Who did Jesus say he was, and what did he say to the woman at the well?   John 10:11 and John 4:10

  

  1. Where does God dwell, and what has passed away?     Revelation 21:3-4

  

Personal – How have you been washed by the blood of Jesus? How and where is Jesus leading you today?

 

 

FOURTH DAY             READ JOHN 10:27-30                GOSPEL 

  (“My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”) 

  1. What does Jesus say his sheep hear, whom does he know, and what do they do?   John 10:27

  

  1. Why were they trying to kill Jesus?   John 8:37

  

  1. Who hears the words of God?   John 8:47

  

  1. What does Jesus give his sheep, what will never happen to them, and what can no one do?   John 10:28

  

  1. What is the will of the Father? John 6:39-40

  

  1. To whom does the Lord open his hand?   Psalm 145:16

  

  1. Who is the Father greater than and what can no one do?     John 10:29

  

  1. Why did the Father give Jesus authority over all the people, and who belonged to the Father? John 17:2, 6

  

  1. What are the Father and Jesus?   John 10:30

  

  1. What did Jesus pray that we all be? John 17:20-23

  

Personal – How do you recognize Jesus’ voice and know when to follow him?   When was the last time you felt the protecting hand of God upon you?

 

 

FIFTH DAY             READ PSALM 100:1-3, 5 

               (“Serve the Lord with gladness.”) 

Read and meditate on Psalm 100:1-3, 5. 

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY 

                       ACTS 13:14, 43-52 

     The Jewish leaders tried to hide behind the shadow of jealousy as they brought legal and religious arguments against Paul and Barnabas. The root of their jealousy was that Peter and the apostles were already getting more respect than they had ever received. The difference between Peter, Paul, and Barnabas and the religious leaders was that the Pharisees demanded the respect and reverence for themselves. The goal of the apostles was to bring respect, reverence, and honor to God. The apostles were respected, not because they demanded it, but because they earned it. It is difficult to rejoice with others who are succeeding where we are not; but when we call upon the Holy Spirit, he will give us the strength we need (1 John 4:4). 

     Jealousy is a human and natural reaction, and it is tragic when we let our own jealous feelings make us try to stop God’s work. If a work being done is God’s work, then rejoice in it, no matter who is doing it. 

     Paul wanted the Jewish people to join him in proclaiming God’s salvation. Unfortunately, many Jews did not recognize Jesus as the Messiah, and they did not understand that in Jesus, God was offering salvation to everyone, Jews and Gentiles. Paul, being a Jew himself, hoped that the people would see that through Israel came Jesus, the light of all nations (Luke 2:32). This light would spread out and enlighten the whole world. The Jewish leaders turned away and like so many people today, when confronted with a disturbing truth, they often turn away and refuse to listen. When God speaks we must listen to him, or else we risk pushing the truth out of our lives.

 

                     REVELATION 7:9, 14-17 

     In today’s reading we see a great crowd gathered in front of the throne before the lamb. Some say the crowd was a group of all the martyrs who died preaching God’s word. In the face of warfare, famine, persecution, and death, Christians will be called to stand firm for what they believe. These souls were sealed by God and now they are victorious. This crowd in heaven appears to be composed of those who remained faithful to God throughout the generations. The ones who came out of the tribulation washed their souls clean with the blood of Jesus Christ. The blood of Christ is the world’s greatest purifier, because it removes the ugly stain of sin. White symbolizes the qualities of sinlessness or holiness which can be imparted by shedding the blood of the sinless Lamb of God. 

     Some believe the suffering of the martyrs has gone on through the ages, and some believe there will be a specific time of intense tribulation. God will provide for his children’s needs in their eternal home. There will be no hunger, thirst, or pain; he will wipe away all tears in his beautiful eternal “Holy City.” This is a tremendously comforting verse when you feel that it is hopeless to even go on trying. This truth will sustain you in your time of trial. It is important to remember that all who have been faithful throughout the ages are singing before God’s throne. Their tribulations and sorrows are over and all their sins are over. All believers have been resurrected and die no more. Alleluia! 

 

                         JOHN 10:27-30 

     The role of a shepherd was very well known in Palestine, and they knew that a flock of sheep knew their master by the sound of his voice. Jesus compared his followers to sheep, and he was their shepherd. When he spoke, the people knew very well what he was talking about. He promised them eternal life if they accepted him as Master and Lord of their lives.  

     He offers that to us right here and now. All the littleness of our earthly life would be gone and we would know the splendor of being loved by God. He promised a life that would know no end. Death would be the beginning of living forever. He promised a life that was secure. Nothing could snatch that life from his hand. It did not mean that they would be saved from sorrow, suffering, or death. It did mean that they would know the serenity and power of God.  

     Jesus made a tremendous claim to the crowd of Jews, and he showed them his tremendous trust in God. He had been speaking to them about his sheep and his flock and that no one would ever take them away from him. He revealed that his Father gave him the sheep, and both the sheep and he were secure in his Father’s hand. Jesus was so sure of himself because he was sure of his Father. He then told them and us that he and the Father were one (17:11).  

Jesus is saying that the unity between himself and the Father is the same unity he wants for us. His prayer is that all Christians be united in love as he is united in love with the Father.

  

Application 

     The first reading says faith is a free gift and respect is something you earn. In the second reading we see that only the Blood of Christ can wash away sin. In the Gospel we see prayer as a dialogue between two people in love with one another. 

     This week let your prayer be that the Lord gives you the courage to confess your sins by receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Then let the power of the Holy Eucharist nurture you and let you approach your family and friends with humility and reverence. Let your faith be shared in unity with members of other denominations in a spirit of joy. Jesus commanded all of us to be filled with his Spirit (Eph. 5:18) and then go out and make disciples of all nations (Matt. 28:19-20). Let your unity begin with God and you; then God, you, and your family; then God, you, your family, and your community. Miracles will then be happening in your neighborhood.

THIRD SUNDAY IN EASTER (May 5th) – CYCLE C

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THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

by Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

BEFORE YOU BEGIN:

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

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

 

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

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

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY          READ ACTS 5:27-32, 40-41      FIRST READING

(“We must obey God rather than men.”)

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

THIRD DAY            READ REVELATION 5:11-14       SECOND READING

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

FOURTH DAY              READ JOHN 21:1-19                GOSPEL

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

  1. What did Jesus tell them, what happened as a result of their doing what he asked, and who recognized the Lord?

John 21:6-7

 

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

 

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

 

  1. What did Jesus say to them, what did the disciples not dare to ask, what did Jesus do, and how many times was

this that Jesus revealed himself to them since his resurrection? John 21:12-14

 

  1. When they had finished breakfast, what did Jesus ask Simon Peter, what was his response, and what did Jesus

tell him to do?   John 21:15

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

 

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ACTS 5:27-32, 40-41

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

REVELATION 5:11-14

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

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

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

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

 

JOHN 21:1-19

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

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

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

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

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

 

Application

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

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

 

SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER (April 28th) – CYCLE C

Posted on by

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?

  

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

 

 

SECOND DAY              READ ACTS 5:12-16          FIRST READING 

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

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

      Matthew 8:16 –           Matt. 12:15 –

     Mark 6:56 –              Acts 5:16 –

  

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

 

 

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

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

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

 

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

 

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

 

 

FOURTH DAY             READ JOHN 20:19-31                GOSPEL

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

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

         

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY 

               ACTS 5:12-16 

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

REVELATION 1:9-13, 17-19 

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

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

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

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

 

 

JOHN 20:19-31 

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

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

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

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

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

 

Application 

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

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

EASTER SUNDAY (April 21st) – CYCLE C

Posted on by

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?

  

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

 

 

SECOND DAY           READ ACTS 10:34, 37-43        FIRST READING

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

  

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

 

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

  

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

    

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

  

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

  

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

 

 

THIRD DAY             READ COLOSSIANS 3:1-4        SECOND READING

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

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

 

  1. Where is Christ seated? Colossians 3:1

 

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

  

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

 

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

  

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

  

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

FOURTH DAY              READ JOHN 20:1-9                  GOSPEL 

                    (“He saw and believed.”)    

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

 

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

 

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

 

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

 

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

  

 

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

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

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

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

  

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

                       ACTS 10:34, 37-43

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

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

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

 

                        COLOSSIANS 3:1-4

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

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

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

 

                          JOHN 20:1-9 

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

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

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

 

Application 

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

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

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

 

PASSION (PALM) SUNDAY (April 14th) – CYCLE C

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THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

by Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

 

BEFORE YOU BEGIN: 

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

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

 

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings. 

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

 

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

 

 

SECOND DAY             READ ISAIAH 50:4-7         FIRST READING 

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

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

  

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

  

  1. What has he not done? Isaiah 50:5

  

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

  

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

  

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

 

 

THIRD DAY            READ PHILIPPIANS 2:6-11      SECOND READING 

                     (“Jesus Christ is Lord.”) 

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

 

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

 

 

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

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

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

  

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

  

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

 

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

 

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

 

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

  

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

 

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

  

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY 

                         ISAIAH 50:4-7

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

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

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

 

                       PHILIPPIANS 2:6-11 

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

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

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

 

                        LUKE 22:14-23:56 

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

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

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

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

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

 

Application 

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

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