FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT (April 7th) – CYCLE C

Posted on March 22, 2019March 22, 2019 by admin

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.

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

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

SECOND DAY READ ISAIAH 43:16-21 FIRST READING

(“See, I am doing something new!”)

What has the Lord done? Isaiah 43:16

Why has he done this? Isaiah 51:10.

When was this done? Exodus 14:21.

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

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

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

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

Who honors the Lord? Isaiah 43:20

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

Who are his chosen in the following scriptures:

Luke 9:35 –
Acts 1:2 –
Deut. 7:6-11 –
Romans 11:5 –

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

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

THIRD DAY READ PHILIPPIANS 3:8-14 SECOND READING

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

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

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

On what is this righteousness based? Philippians 3:9

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

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

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

What does Paul hope to attain? Philippians 3:11

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

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

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

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

FOURTH READ JOHN 8:1-11 GOSPEL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who are the sinners among us? Romans 3:23

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

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

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

In what does God take pleasure? Ezekiel 33:11

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

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 126:1-6

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

Read and meditate on Psalm 126:1-6.

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

How can you apply this to your life?

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ISAIAH 43:16-21

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

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

PHILIPPIANS 3:8-14

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

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

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

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

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

JOHN 8:1-11

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

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

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

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

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

Application

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

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

FOURTH SUNDAY IN LENT (March 31st) – CYCLE C

Posted on March 6, 2019March 6, 2019 by admin

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.

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

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

SECOND DAY READ JOSHUA 5:9-12 FIRST READING

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How long did they eat the manna? Exodus 16:35
How long will you live if you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood? John 6:49-51

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 34:2-7

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

Read and meditate on Psalm 34:2-7.

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

How can you apply this to your life?

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

JOSHUA 5:9-12

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

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

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

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

2 CORINTHIANS 5:17-21

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

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

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

LUKE 15:1-3, 11-32

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

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

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

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

Application

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

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

THIRD SUNDAY IN LENT (March 24th) – CYCLE C

Posted on March 6, 2019March 6, 2019 by admin

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.

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

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

SECOND DAY READ EXODUS 3:1-8, 13-15 FIRST READING

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

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

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

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

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

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

What was Moses afraid to do? Exodus 3:6

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 13:1-9 GOSPEL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How can you apply this to your life?

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

EXODUS 3:1-8, 13-15

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

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

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

1 CORINTHIANS 10:1-6, 10-12

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

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

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

LUKE 13:1-9

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

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

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

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

Application

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

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

SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT (March 17th) – CYCLE C

Posted on March 6, 2019March 6, 2019 by admin

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.

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

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

SECOND DAY READ GENESIS 15:5-12, 17-18 FIRST READING

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

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

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

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

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

From where did Abram come? Genesis 15:7

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

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

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

What happened to Abram as the sun was about to set? Genesis 15:12
What are similar ways symbolizing the presence of God in these scriptures? Exodus 19:17-19, Acts 2:3-4

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who does Paul love? Philippians 4:1

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

What does Paul tell his brothers? Philippians 4:1

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

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 9:28-36 GOSPEL

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

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

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

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

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

Who were suddenly conversing with Jesus? Luke 9:30

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(“Wait for the Lord, take courage;”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 27:1, 7-9, 13-14.

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

How can you apply this to your life?

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

GENESIS 15:5-12, 17-18

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

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

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

PHILIPPIANS 3:17-4:1

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

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

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

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

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

LUKE 9:28-36

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

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

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

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

Application

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

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

FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT (March 10th) – CYCLE C

Posted on March 6, 2019March 6, 2019 by admin

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.

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

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

SECOND DAY READ DEUTERONOMY 26:4-10 FIRST READING

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

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

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

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

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

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

What do the following verses say about oppression?
Isaiah 53:8

Isaiah 58:9

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THIRD DAY READ ROMANS 10:8-13 SECOND READING

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To whom is God rich in mercy? Romans 10:12
What must you do to receive God’s mercy? Romans 10:12

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

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

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 4:1-13 GOSPEL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From what did the devil quote? Psalm 91:11

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

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

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

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

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

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

How can you apply this to your life?

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

DEUTERONOMY 26:4-10

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

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

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

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

ROMANS 10:8-13

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

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

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

LUKE 4:1-13

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

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

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

Application

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

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

SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT (March 17th) – CYCLE C

Posted on February 14, 2019February 14, 2019 by admin

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.

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

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

SECOND DAY READ GENESIS 15:5-12, 17-18 FIRST READING

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

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

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

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

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

From where did Abram come? Genesis 15:7

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who does Paul love? Philippians 4:1

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

What does Paul tell his brothers? Philippians 4:1

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

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 9:28-36 GOSPEL

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

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

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

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

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

Who were suddenly conversing with Jesus? Luke 9:30

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(“Wait for the Lord, take courage;”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 27:1, 7-9, 13-14.

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

How can you apply this to your life?

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

GENESIS 15:5-12, 17-18

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

PHILIPPIANS 3:17-4:1

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

LUKE 9:28-36

Application

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

FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT (March 10th) – CYCLE C

Posted on February 14, 2019February 14, 2019 by admin

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.

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

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

SECOND DAY READ DEUTERONOMY 26:4-10 FIRST READING

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

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

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

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

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

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

What do the following verses say about oppression?
Isaiah 53:8

Isaiah 58:9

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

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

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

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

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

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

THIRD DAY READ ROMANS 10:8-13 SECOND READING

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To whom is God rich in mercy? Romans 10:12
What must you do to receive God’s mercy? Romans 10:12

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

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

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 4:1-13 GOSPEL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From what did the devil quote? Psalm 91:11

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

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

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

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

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

How can you apply this to your life?

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

DEUTERONOMY 26:4-10

ROMANS 10:8-13

LUKE 4:1-13

Application

EIGHTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (March 3rd) – CYCLE C

Posted on February 11, 2019February 11, 2019 by admin

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.

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

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

SECOND DAY READ SIRACH 27:4-7 FIRST READING

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What defiles a person? Matthew 15:11
How are you to set an example for those who believe? 1 Timothy 4:12

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 6:39-45 GOSPEL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From what does the mouth speak? Luke 6:45

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

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

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

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

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

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

How can you apply this to your life?

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

SIRACH 27:4-7

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

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

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

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

1 CORINTHIANS 15:54-58

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

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

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

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

LUKE 6:39-45

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

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

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

Application

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

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

SEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Feb. 24th) – CYCLE C

Posted on February 4, 2019February 4, 2019 by admin

THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

by Deacon Ken and Marie Finn

BEFORE YOU BEGIN:

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

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

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

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

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

SECOND DAY READ 1 SAMUEL 26:2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23 FIRST READING

(“The Lord will award each man for his justice and faithfulness.”)

1. Why did Saul go to the desert of Ziph, and with whom did he go? 1 Samuel 26:2

2. When and where did David and Abishai go, who did they find sleeping, and how did they find him? 1 Samuel 26:7

3. Who surrounds you? Psalm 125:2

4. What did Abishai say to David? 1 Samuel 26:8

5. What came over Saul, and what did Saul do to David? 1 Samuel 18:10-11

6. What did David say to Abishai about the Lord’s anointed? 1 Samuel 26:9

7. What does his anointing do for you? 1 John 2:27

8. What did David do, what did the Lord do to those sleeping, and where did David go? 1 Samuel 26:12-13

9. What did David say about the king’s spear, and for what did he say the Lord will reward them? 1 Samuel 6:22-23

10. What does the Lord love, and what are the works of his hands? Psalm 33:5 and Psalm 111:7

Personal – How has the anointing that you received in baptism helped you in your times of temptation?

THIRD DAY READ 1 CORINTHIANS 15:45-49 SECOND READING

(“…we shall also bear the image of the heavenly one.”)

1. What is written about the first Adam and the last Adam? 1 Corinthians 15:45

2. How did the first Adam become a living being, and who gives life to whomever he wishes? Genesis 2:7 and John 5:21

3. What was not first? 1 Corinthians 15:46

4. How is our body sown and raised? 1 Corinthians 15:44

5. From where was the first man, and from where was the second? 1 Corinthians 15:47

6. Who is the One who came down from heaven? John 3:13

7. Who are the earthly and who are the heavenly? 1 Cor. 15:48

8. What does the Lord Jesus do to our body? Philippians 3:19-21

9. Just as we have borne the image of the earthly one, whose image shall we also bear? 1 Corinthians 15:49, Romans 8:29

10. How do you bear the image of the heavenly one? Ephesians 5:1-2

Personal – In what way do you see yourself changed from an earthly being to a spiritual being? What characteristic changes took place in you?

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 6:27-38 GOSPEL

(“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”)

1. Who did Jesus say to love, and to whom did he say to be good? Luke 6:27

2. For whom does Jesus say to bless and pray? Luke 6:28

3. What was said before, and what is Jesus saying now? Matthew 5:43-44

4. What are you to do when someone strikes you on the right cheek, takes your cloak, and asks for something? Luke 6:29-30

Personal – When someone has hurt you, what is your response?

5. What are we to do to others, who do even sinners love, and do good to? Luke 6:31-33

6. What were you called to inherit? 1 Peter 3:9

7. How should you lend money, what will be your reward, and what will you be called? Luke 6:34-35

8. Who is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked, and why should you be merciful? Luke 6:35-36

Personal – List how many things you gave away this past week for which you knew you would not be repaid?

9. What will happen if you stop judging and condemning, and if you forgive? Luke 6:37

10. What virtue triumphs over judgment? James 2:13

11. If you give, what will be given you, and what will be measured out to you? Luke 6:38

Personal – What are some of the gifts you have received for giving something away? In what way have you made judgments on others, and what do you need to do to repair the damage?

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 103:1-4, 8, 10, 12-13

(“He pardons all your iniquities, he heals all your ills.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 103:1-4, 8, 10, 12-13.

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

1 SAMUEL 26:2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23

Today’s reading reveals the conscience of David. David knew that Saul was hunting him so that he could kill him. He caught King Saul by surprise and, even though David was a professional warrior, he knew that Saul was chosen by God, and David had no right to kill him.

David wrote Psalm 51, and in this psalm, it gives us an insight into the depths of his character. He knew that God wants a contrite heart, and he knew that he would suffer miserable guilt if he killed Saul. David and his aide showed great courage and David displayed the discipline of self-control that prevented his aide from killing King Saul. David’s aide respected David’s loyalty to authority and became one of David’s most loyal and powerful warriors in his army. David was determined to follow God, and this carried over into his decision not to murder God’s anointed king.

Today there is a drastic loss of respect for authority in our lands because there is a loss of reverence and fear of God himself. We see even today that the strongest moral decisions we make are the ones we make before temptation strikes. Who would you have been like in such a situation? Would you have been like David or David’s men? When you decide to follow God, you must realize that you cannot do wrongful things in order to execute justice. Even when your closest friends might encourage you to take a certain action that seems to be right, you must always remember to put God’s commands first. David did not kill Saul because God had placed Saul in power, and David did not want to run ahead of God’s timing. David left Saul’s destiny in God’s hands.

1 CORINTHIANS 15:45-49

In today’s reading, Paul is talking not about verifiable matters of fact, but about matters of faith. Today we have believers who still ask, what kind of a body do people have when they rise again? Paul tells us that a seed is put into the ground, dies, and in due time rises again with a different kind of body. It is still the same seed, but it has gone through stages of development. In life there is development.

The first man was made from the dust of the earth (Genesis 2:7), but Jesus is the incarnation of the very Spirit of God. We share under the old way of life the sin of Adam, dying like him, and having a body like him. However, we share in the new life under Christ — his life and his being. We now have a physical body, but one day we shall have a spiritual body. Our present body is corruptible, and our future body will be incorruptible. Our present body is a natural body, and our future body will be a spiritual body. In the future the Holy Spirit will be able to fill us completely, and then we will be able to worship and love Almighty God completely, which for now can only be a vision and a dream enveloped in the mystery of faith.

When Christ rose from the dead, he entered into a new form of existence. Christ’s new glorified human body suits his new glorified life. We see this as Adam’s human body was suitable to his natural life. When we, who are believers of Jesus Christ, die, God will give us a new and glorified body suited to eternal life.

LUKE 6:27-38

Jesus makes known, very strongly in this reading, that love is a decision and not some sentimental sloppy emotion. He tells us that anyone can love someone who is easy to love or who in turn loves us back. He goes on to say that even pagans love their families and friends. He even states that anyone can love under those kinds of situations. Jesus ask for something more than a sentimental yes, he calls for a decision, a decision to love.

Jesus was well aware of the oppression of the Jewish people by the Romans. But he told the people to love their enemies. This kind of talk and teachings turned many people away from him. He was not talking about feelings, but about the use of our will. Jesus’ teachings are about an act of love which is really an act of the will. We make a choice to love someone with our mind. We also make a choice to forgive someone with our mind.

The Greeks distinguished between three different types of love in the world at the time of Christ, and this still is true today. They are: 1, Eros – a natural love of man for a woman; 2, Philo – a love for relative or friend; and 3, Agape – a love that only builds up the other person with no expectation for any kind of response. This Agape-type of love is what Jesus was calling for as the type of love that he has extended to us.

Jesus died for all of us knowing quite well that many people could have cared less about him. He died for us knowing that many were sinning while he was dying for us and would be sinners long after he died. He knew first-hand what it meant to love those who hate, persecute, and even put you to death. He asks us to do nothing that he has not done, and he tells us that he will give us the power to love like this through his Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8). His message today is for all the world just as it was then, and that message is to “Love one another as I have loved you.” (John 13:34).

Application

The first reading tells us that the destiny of all people is in God’s protective hands. The second reading explains how our present body is a natural body, and our future body will be a spiritual body. The Gospel reveals that love is a decision, not a feeling.

This week take inventory of yourself and see who is NOT getting your love. Look at members of your family, then your relatives, and then your work or school associates. Make a decision to love and make a decision to forgive. You might begin this inventory and decision making by first getting down on your knees and confessing to God your own sins. Then listen to him as he discerns your inventory and puts it in proper order. Ask the Holy Spirit to clear all of the “stinking thinking” out of your head as you get ready to decide to love all, even your enemies.

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Feb. 17th) – CYCLE C

Posted on January 28, 2019January 28, 2019 by admin

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.

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

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

SECOND DAY READ JEREMIAH 17:5-8 FIRST READING

(“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord.”)

What does the Lord say about the man who trusts in human beings? Where does he seek his strength, and from whom does he turn his heart away? Jeremiah 17:5

Why do you not put your trust in man? Psalm 146:3

What is worthless? Psalm 108:13

Who else do we not trust? 2 Corinthians 1:9

What happens to the man who turns his heart away from the Lord? Jeremiah 17:5-6

What is the person who trusts in the Lord, whose hope is in the Lord? Jeremiah 17:7

What is Jeremiah telling Ebed-melech, the Cushite, will happen to him because he trusted the Lord? Jeremiah 39:18

What does he that trusts the Lord not fear, and what does he bear? Jeremiah 17:7-8

What makes you fruitful? Ezekiel 19:10

What will happen to those who believe and trust in Jesus? John 7:38-39

Personal – In whom do you put your trust for your shelter, food clothing, protection, guidance, etc.? How much control does your spouse, banker, or insurance agent have on your well-being or mood for the day?

THIRD DAY READ 1 CORINTHIANS 15:12, 16-20 SECOND READING

(“But now Christ has been raised from the dead,”)

As what was Christ being preached, and what were some saying? 1 Corinthians 15:12

What was Paul preaching to the brothers? 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

If the dead are not raised, what is that saying about Christ? What happens to your faith, and what are you still in? 1 Corinthians 15:16-17

Why was Jesus raised from the dead? Romans 4:23-25

If you do not believe Christ was raised, what happens to those who have fallen asleep in Christ? 1 Corinthians 15:18

Who are the most unfortunate or pitiable people of all? 1 Corinthians 15:19

Who is in you, and for what is this hope? Colossians 1:27

What has Christ done, and what is he to those who have fallen asleep? 1 Corinthians 15:20

Who is the One who raised Jesus from the dead, where is he now, and what will he give you? Romans 8:11

Of what is Jesus the head, the beginning, and the first born of the dead? What does this make him? Colossians 1:18

Personal – What are you hoping for when you pass from this life to the next in Christ?

FOURTH DAY READ LUKE 6:17, 20-26 GOSPEL

(“Rejoice and leap for joy on that day!”)

When Jesus came and stood on level ground, who came to hear Him? Luke 6:17-18

Toward whom did Jesus raise his eyes, and to who did he say the kingdom of God belonged? Luke 6:20

Who became poor for our sake? 2 Corinthians 8:9

Who will be satisfied and laughing? Luke 6:21

If we come to the Lord, what will he do? Isaiah 55:1-2

When people hate you, exclude and insult you, and denounce your name as evil because of Whom, what will you be? Luke 6:22

What did Jesus tell his disciples, and what will those who kill you think they are doing? John 16:1-2

What are you to do, where is your reward, and what did your ancestors do? Luke 6:23

Who has received his consolation, and what will happen to those who are full and happy now? Luke 6:24-25

About whom did your ancestors speak well? Luke 6:26

Personal – What has been your reaction to your own poverty and mistreatment here and now? Give an example of your rejoicing and leaping for joy on account of your love of Jesus and for being persecuted for that love.

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 1:1-4, 6

(“For the Lord watches over the way of the just,”)

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

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

How can you apply this to your life?

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

JEREMIAH 17:5-8

Jeremiah is describing two kinds of people in today’s reading: the wicked and the righteous. The wicked trust false gods and military alliances instead of God and thus are barren and unfruitful. The people of Judah sought advice from everyone but God.

When we are driven by fear, we seem to look everywhere for advice and comfort, hoping to find an easy way out of our troubled situation. Instead, we should have gone to God first for direction. He will give us the help we need, but he prefers to be our source of everything throughout our lives. We can do this by reading his Word and actively seeking to do his will. We can maintain contact that gives us strength no matter what the problem.

In today’s reading, God was not happy with his people because they sought power and protection from other nations. He warned that these alliances may seem inviting, but in the long run, they will turn out to be harmful.

We are not to turn for direction from those who are of the world and not of God. Ask God to help you choose what the best and wisest action you should take is. Trusting in the Lord is the first step of obedience in following the Lord. We always make another marvelous discovery of the depth of God’s goodness and kindness when we step out and trust him.

Many people have grown up with a misunderstanding of God and right living. To live a lifestyle that is pleasing to God is found only by demonstrating a reverence for God and experiencing how good he actually is. You show reverence to God by showing deep respect and honor to one another. Jesus shows us how to reverence him when he tells us to love one another as he has loved us (John 15:12).

1 CORINTHIANS 15:12, 16-20

For Paul, the death and resurrection of Christ is the core of all Christian teaching. Paul states this very dramatically when he tells the Corinthian converts, “If Christ is not risen, our faith is in vain.” The church at Corinth was in the heart of Greek culture and most Greeks did not believe that people’s bodies would be resurrected after death. They saw life after death as something that happened only to the soul. At that time Greek philosophy states that only the soul was the real person, and it was imprisoned in a physical body. At death, there was no immortality for the body, but the soul entered an eternal state. In contrast, Scripture stated that the body and soul will be united after resurrection. Paul did not want the Christian converts to fall back into pagan ideas about what really happens to a believer after death.

Today there are false teachers proclaiming that the resurrection of Christ was not really physical, but spiritual. We know that by his resurrection is revealed as “the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.” Paul is telling the people that if Christianity has no eternal value, then what was the reason for going through the persecution and, in many cases, death?

The resurrection is the center of our Christian faith. Because Christ rose from the dead, we know that what he said was true — he is God. Because he rose, his death for our sins was validated, and we can be forgiven. Because he rose, he lives and makes intercession for us. Because he rose and defeated death, we who believe in him will rise also. Without the bodily resurrection of Christ, perseverance in faith, including the sacrifices involved in suffering and persecutions, is pointless and at best foolish.

LUKE 6:17, 20-26

In today’s reading we see Luke giving an account on the beatitudes similar to Matthew’s sermon (Matt. 5:1-12). Beatitude comes from a Latin word which means “blessing.” The beatitudes describe what it means to be a real follower of Christ. They are also a standard of conduct, and a way in which we can live our lives in accordance with the teachings of Christ. They are referred by many as the Christian attitudes of being well, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

There is tremendous conflict between the values of God’s kingdom and the values of the world. The beatitudes show what Christians can expect from the world, and what God will give them. Like a very sharp knife, the beatitudes cut away false piety from true humility. They also very clearly show how the Old Testament expectations will be fulfilled in God’s kingdom.

Jesus startled his listeners because each beatitude or blessing is in fact a challenge. The beatitudes are like flashes of lightning followed by a thunder of surprise and amazement. They take the accepted standards of the world and turn them upside down. The people whom Jesus called happy or blessed would be called wretches, misfits, or losers in today’s world. Jesus reaches into the core of what he is teaching when he stated that if we set our heart and bend our energies to obtain things which the world values, we will get them, but that is all we will get.

Jesus puts the challenge to us very clearly. Will we take the easy way which yields immediate pleasure and profit, or will we take the hard way which yields immediate toil and sometimes much suffering? Will we concentrate on the world’s rewards which are temporary or on God’s blessings which will bring us eternal life?

Application

The first reading shows God, not man, as the source of all real power. The second reading says that because Christ rose from the dead, as a believer of him, so will we. In the Gospel we see that God’s reward is forever, and the world’s reward is temporary.

This week let your attitude be an action of love, gentleness, and strength. Show your humility by putting family needs before your own needs. You can only demonstrate this kind of power if you are strong in your private time alone in prayer with the Lord. Read Scripture daily, and he will give you direction in your daily actions. Show the people at school or work that because you are loved, you are capable of loving others. Remember, blessed are they who love, for they are of God.