Good News ReflectionFOR NEXT SUNDAY: May 31, 2009Pentecost Sunday, Cycle B
Parish bulletins, faith-sharing groups, RCIA: To distribute copies of this reflection, please order the professionally published bulletin insert from Catholic Digital Resources:http://catholicdr.com/calendar/May/Pentecost.htmAnd see these other hand-outs on the Holy Spirit:http://catholicdr.com/faithbuilders/Pentecost
Next Sunday's Readings (Mass during the Day):Acts 2:1-11Ps 104:1, 24, 29-31, 341 Cor 12:3-7, 12-13 or Gal 5:16-25John 20:19-23 or John 15:26-27; 16:12-15http://www.usccb.org/nab/053109b.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_31.mp3
The Holy Spirit is Christ's Spirit generously given to us so that we can be holy and to continue the ministry that Christ began. On our own, we cannot be like Jesus, but if his Spirit is alive and active within us, we have Christ's holiness, his faith, his supernatural love and peace, confidence and endurance, and everything else that we see in Jesus.
You received the Holy Spirit during your baptism. The reality of this was confirmed and strengthened in the Sacrament of Confirmation. Ever since the first out-pouring of the Spirit on Pentecost, God has been transforming the world by working through those who serve his Kingdom. He generously fills us with his Spirit so that we will succeed at whatever he asks us to do. But how well his holiness and power exudes from us is up to us.
Join me in this Prayer to the Holy Spirit:
Dear Jesus, stir up within me the fullness of Your Holy Spirit. Help me to live in Your holy power. Open my mind to understand Your truths, and open my heart to accept Your truths even before I gain right understanding.
O Holy Spirit, help me to seek, more than anything, the kingdom of God. Help me to recognize what I am attached to that is not of You, and give me the determination and the strength to let go. I want only You.
O Holy Spirit, help me to face my sinfulness and to feel genuine sorrow for the damage that I have caused. Comfort me as I mourn my need for forgiveness, and give me Your spirit of rejoicing over this new growth. Then, help me to share this healing mercy with all those around me.
Jesus commanded, "Go into all the world and preach the good news." Use my gifts and talents to make a difference. I have my own expectations about what I should and should not do. I now surrender to You my ideas, my limitations, my preferences, and my goals. I want to be useful to You. I want to go where You lead me. Holy Spirit, send me forth gifted and empowered to spread the holy and victorious love of Jesus Christ.
Come, Holy Spirit; renew me. Amen!
See this prayer in its full length athttp://wordbytes.org/prayers/HolySpirit.htmAnd also:The Novena to the Holy Spirithttp://wordbytes.org/prayers/HolySpirit-Novena.htmWho is the Holy Spirit?http://wordbytes.org/doctrine/HolySpirit.htm
Questions for Personal Reflection:Does the Holy Spirit seem like a Person to you, as real as Jesus? Why or why not? What affect does the "Prayer to the Holy Spirit" (above) have on you? What in it is most helpful to your spiritual growth?
Questions for Community Faith Sharing:How do you know when the Holy Spirit is being manifested in you? Give an example from your life. How did this experience help you grow in holiness?
STARTING ON MONDAY, if you're a member of the "Emmaus Journey" e-group, share your answers by writing to EmmausJourney@gnm.org* To join and become a member, go to: http://gogoodnews.net/GNMcommunities/EmmausJourney/
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
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Friday, May 29, 2009
Courageous messengers empowered by the Spirit
Good News ReflectionFriday of the Seventh Week of EasterMay 29, 2009
Today's Readings:Acts 25:13b-21Ps 103:1-2, 11-12, 19-20abJohn 21:15-19http://www.usccb.org/nab/052909.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_29.mp3
Courageous messengers empowered by the Spirit
Are you a courageous messenger of the Gospel? It's only possible with the Holy Spirit. Without this help from God, we fail due to our inadequacies and we miss great opportunities because we're afraid of failing. Imagine how St. Paul might have felt in today's first reading. We marvel at his courage as he continued serving the kingdom of God even during his trial and imprisonment. Could you do that? Could I? YES!!! But only thanks to the Holy Spirit.
In today's Gospel reading, we see St. Peter receiving his vocation as the first pope, i.e., Christ's primary shepherd of the Church. Imagine how he felt about that! His only qualifications for this hugely important responsibility were (a) remaining with Jesus for three years (less time than it takes to get a college degree, not to mention seminary training), and (b) uhhhhh .... ummmm .... okay, here's something: Peter had a little bit of courage to follow in Jesus' footsteps, which is why he was willing to step out of the boat and walk on the water, for a moment.
A little bit of courage is all God needs. The Holy Spirit provides the fullness. This made all the difference in Peter's life. Compare his lack of courage on Good Friday, when he was afraid of admitting to a few people that he knew Jesus, to the boundless courage he had on Pentecost, when he preached to a huge crowd even though a short while earlier he and the other apostles were huddled fearfully in a locked room.
Consider Paul. He started with a lot of courage, and he used it to persecute the Christians. What the Holy Spirit provided was an understanding of who Jesus really was and how to use his courage to spread the truth.
What do you need from the Holy Spirit so that you can be a courageous messenger of the Gospel? Ask God to help you dig down beneath the surface of your life, into the depths of your heart, with full self-honesty, to find your answer. Then take your needs to church on Pentecost and leave at the end of Mass ready to live a life guided by the Holy Spirit, knowing that he will provide what's lacking in you.
And use Pope John Paul the Great's prayer to the Holy Spirit, from May 30, 1998:
"Come, Holy Spirit, come and renew the face of the earth! Come with your seven gifts! Come, Spirit of Life, Spirit of Communion and Love! The Church and the world need you. Come, Holy Spirit, and make ever more fruitful the charisms you have bestowed on us. Give new strength and missionary zeal to these sons and daughters of yours.... Open their hearts; renew their Christian commitment to the world. Make them courageous messengers of the Gospel, witnesses to the risen Jesus Christ, the Redeemer and Savior. Strengthen their love and their fidelity to the Church." Amen!
And here's a Good News Prayer to the Holy Spirit: http://wordbytes.org/prayers/HolySpirit.htmFor distributing this or other reflections on or prayers to the Holy Spirit in your church or prayer group, please visit Catholic Digital Resources™: http://catholicdr.com/calendar/Easter-Pentecost
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
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Today's Readings:Acts 25:13b-21Ps 103:1-2, 11-12, 19-20abJohn 21:15-19http://www.usccb.org/nab/052909.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_29.mp3
Courageous messengers empowered by the Spirit
Are you a courageous messenger of the Gospel? It's only possible with the Holy Spirit. Without this help from God, we fail due to our inadequacies and we miss great opportunities because we're afraid of failing. Imagine how St. Paul might have felt in today's first reading. We marvel at his courage as he continued serving the kingdom of God even during his trial and imprisonment. Could you do that? Could I? YES!!! But only thanks to the Holy Spirit.
In today's Gospel reading, we see St. Peter receiving his vocation as the first pope, i.e., Christ's primary shepherd of the Church. Imagine how he felt about that! His only qualifications for this hugely important responsibility were (a) remaining with Jesus for three years (less time than it takes to get a college degree, not to mention seminary training), and (b) uhhhhh .... ummmm .... okay, here's something: Peter had a little bit of courage to follow in Jesus' footsteps, which is why he was willing to step out of the boat and walk on the water, for a moment.
A little bit of courage is all God needs. The Holy Spirit provides the fullness. This made all the difference in Peter's life. Compare his lack of courage on Good Friday, when he was afraid of admitting to a few people that he knew Jesus, to the boundless courage he had on Pentecost, when he preached to a huge crowd even though a short while earlier he and the other apostles were huddled fearfully in a locked room.
Consider Paul. He started with a lot of courage, and he used it to persecute the Christians. What the Holy Spirit provided was an understanding of who Jesus really was and how to use his courage to spread the truth.
What do you need from the Holy Spirit so that you can be a courageous messenger of the Gospel? Ask God to help you dig down beneath the surface of your life, into the depths of your heart, with full self-honesty, to find your answer. Then take your needs to church on Pentecost and leave at the end of Mass ready to live a life guided by the Holy Spirit, knowing that he will provide what's lacking in you.
And use Pope John Paul the Great's prayer to the Holy Spirit, from May 30, 1998:
"Come, Holy Spirit, come and renew the face of the earth! Come with your seven gifts! Come, Spirit of Life, Spirit of Communion and Love! The Church and the world need you. Come, Holy Spirit, and make ever more fruitful the charisms you have bestowed on us. Give new strength and missionary zeal to these sons and daughters of yours.... Open their hearts; renew their Christian commitment to the world. Make them courageous messengers of the Gospel, witnesses to the risen Jesus Christ, the Redeemer and Savior. Strengthen their love and their fidelity to the Church." Amen!
And here's a Good News Prayer to the Holy Spirit: http://wordbytes.org/prayers/HolySpirit.htmFor distributing this or other reflections on or prayers to the Holy Spirit in your church or prayer group, please visit Catholic Digital Resources™: http://catholicdr.com/calendar/Easter-Pentecost
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
What is required to answer the prayer of Jesus?
Good News ReflectionThursday of the Seventh Week of EasterMay 28, 2009
Today's Readings:Acts 22:30; 23:6-11Ps 16:1-2a, 5, 7-11Luke 17:20-26http://www.usccb.org/nab/052809.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_28.mp3
What is required to answer the prayer of Jesus?
After I became Catholic in 1977, I read today's Gospel passage and said, "Wow Jesus, your prayer is taking a long time to get answered! The number of break-away denominations just keep multiplying." And seeing divisive behavior within the Catholic Church, I've said, "Wow Jesus, your prayer isn't even being answered here!"
Or maybe I was just looking for the answer in the wrong places.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church says that "Christ bestowed unity on his Church from the beginning", and that unity "subsists in the Catholic Church as something she can never lose" (see para. 820). It's a gift. It's not something that we make happen — it's already ours. "But the Church must always pray and work to maintain, reinforce, and perfect the unity that Christ wills for her."
The unity we have in the Catholic Church comes from accepting that Christ is the head and that he chose to lead us through Saint Peter and all the popes and bishops who came from his line of ordination — despite their imperfections and sins. Our unity comes from the Church Magisterium's protection of and explanations of the teachings of Christ, and if we choose to remain in unity with Christ by learning from the Magisterium, Jesus protects us from false teachings and worldly compromises.
We divide ourselves from the Church when we disregard or misuse Church teachings. Every teaching issued by the Magisterium has love as its goal and scripture as its foundation. More often than not, however, when we reject them, it's not to be divisive; it's simply because we don't understand their value. The most common example of this is the teaching against using artificial birth control. Many Catholics disregard it, because they fail to research it enough to discover how it enhances their ability to love, which includes, if we want to be Christ-like, self-sacrifice.
What about the ways that Catholics are divided from Protestants? Can Christ's prayer be answered even while we're divided from one another in worship and in doctrinal issues? Yes! Unity does not mean "agreement." His prayer is answered in the way we LOVE one another. As it says in the Catechism, para. 815, the bond of unity is the love that "binds everything together in perfect harmony (Col. 3:14)". Harmony isn't accomplished by everyone singing the same notes. Harmony requires diversity in mutual service under the guidance of the Music Director. And you know, Catholics and Protestants have the same Music Director!
See also the Good News WordByte on Pope Benedict's desire for unity (2005):http://wordbytes.org/pope/unity.htm
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Today's Readings:Acts 22:30; 23:6-11Ps 16:1-2a, 5, 7-11Luke 17:20-26http://www.usccb.org/nab/052809.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_28.mp3
What is required to answer the prayer of Jesus?
After I became Catholic in 1977, I read today's Gospel passage and said, "Wow Jesus, your prayer is taking a long time to get answered! The number of break-away denominations just keep multiplying." And seeing divisive behavior within the Catholic Church, I've said, "Wow Jesus, your prayer isn't even being answered here!"
Or maybe I was just looking for the answer in the wrong places.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church says that "Christ bestowed unity on his Church from the beginning", and that unity "subsists in the Catholic Church as something she can never lose" (see para. 820). It's a gift. It's not something that we make happen — it's already ours. "But the Church must always pray and work to maintain, reinforce, and perfect the unity that Christ wills for her."
The unity we have in the Catholic Church comes from accepting that Christ is the head and that he chose to lead us through Saint Peter and all the popes and bishops who came from his line of ordination — despite their imperfections and sins. Our unity comes from the Church Magisterium's protection of and explanations of the teachings of Christ, and if we choose to remain in unity with Christ by learning from the Magisterium, Jesus protects us from false teachings and worldly compromises.
We divide ourselves from the Church when we disregard or misuse Church teachings. Every teaching issued by the Magisterium has love as its goal and scripture as its foundation. More often than not, however, when we reject them, it's not to be divisive; it's simply because we don't understand their value. The most common example of this is the teaching against using artificial birth control. Many Catholics disregard it, because they fail to research it enough to discover how it enhances their ability to love, which includes, if we want to be Christ-like, self-sacrifice.
What about the ways that Catholics are divided from Protestants? Can Christ's prayer be answered even while we're divided from one another in worship and in doctrinal issues? Yes! Unity does not mean "agreement." His prayer is answered in the way we LOVE one another. As it says in the Catechism, para. 815, the bond of unity is the love that "binds everything together in perfect harmony (Col. 3:14)". Harmony isn't accomplished by everyone singing the same notes. Harmony requires diversity in mutual service under the guidance of the Music Director. And you know, Catholics and Protestants have the same Music Director!
See also the Good News WordByte on Pope Benedict's desire for unity (2005):http://wordbytes.org/pope/unity.htm
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Self-sufficient but not independent
Good News ReflectionWednesday of the Seventh Week of EasterMay 27, 2009
Today's Saint: Augustine of CanterburyPray for unity within the Churchhttp://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/AugustineCanterbury.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 20:28-38Ps 68:29-30, 33-36abJohn 17:11b-19http://www.usccb.org/nab/052709.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_27.mp3
Self-sufficient but not independent
In Christ's prayer of today's Gospel passage, we see what makes us different from those who belong to the world: We belong to the kingdom of heaven because Jesus has consecrated us to the truth (i.e., to the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth).
We live in the world so that we can infect it with the kingdom of God. We live in the world so that we can bring the truth to it. The Spirit of Truth works through us to carry holy ethics into business, into families, into politics, and into every aspect of society.
In today's first reading, we get a glimpse of St. Paul's influence on business and community affairs. He transformed the town of Ephesus by LIVING the Gospel. Although he was a powerful preacher of the truth, his words were backed up by the holiness of the Spirit of Truth that lived within him.
If we are extraordinary homilists or religious education teachers or daily reflection writers, but we are not preaching the same message with our daily, person-to-person behavior, the gift of preaching is being used scandalously. It's a terrible, far-reaching sin. It would be better to lose our voice than for souls to be wounded or lost on our account.
Notice how Paul did it. He could have rightfully asked the church community to finance his living expenses, but he worked as a tent-maker to take care of his own needs and to help his companions. Thus, he influenced the ethics of Ephesian society by showing that it's important to be self-sufficient for the sake of "helping the weak." He took care of his own needs to the extent that he could, not to be self-sufficient in an isolated sort of way, but to be generous toward others.
I have the same reason for not charging a fee for anything provided by Good News Ministries. My husband's salary enables me to do this, and to make up for what his income lacks, I started my own tent-making business, i.e., Catholic Digital Resources. Meanwhile, until that generates enough income, I am very grateful for the generous donations of some readers of these daily Good News Reflections, who are "helping the weak" with me.
However, I have learned much from relying on God to provide for this ministry through those who benefit from it. Self-sufficiency can feel like independence, and independence can easily lead to separation from community. This happens when we pridefully try to take care of all of our needs by ourselves and, when we cannot, we reject the help that God wants to give us through others. The Church is a community, and this means that our own needs are AS important as everyone else's. Living the Gospel means giving AND receiving so that we have more to give.
If you have needs that are not being met, the misery you feel is a warning flag. Either you're not availing yourself of what God wants to give you through others, or others are saying no to being used by God. As St. Paul demonstrated, by receiving what we need and sharing what we have, we transform the world.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Today's Saint: Augustine of CanterburyPray for unity within the Churchhttp://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/AugustineCanterbury.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 20:28-38Ps 68:29-30, 33-36abJohn 17:11b-19http://www.usccb.org/nab/052709.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_27.mp3
Self-sufficient but not independent
In Christ's prayer of today's Gospel passage, we see what makes us different from those who belong to the world: We belong to the kingdom of heaven because Jesus has consecrated us to the truth (i.e., to the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth).
We live in the world so that we can infect it with the kingdom of God. We live in the world so that we can bring the truth to it. The Spirit of Truth works through us to carry holy ethics into business, into families, into politics, and into every aspect of society.
In today's first reading, we get a glimpse of St. Paul's influence on business and community affairs. He transformed the town of Ephesus by LIVING the Gospel. Although he was a powerful preacher of the truth, his words were backed up by the holiness of the Spirit of Truth that lived within him.
If we are extraordinary homilists or religious education teachers or daily reflection writers, but we are not preaching the same message with our daily, person-to-person behavior, the gift of preaching is being used scandalously. It's a terrible, far-reaching sin. It would be better to lose our voice than for souls to be wounded or lost on our account.
Notice how Paul did it. He could have rightfully asked the church community to finance his living expenses, but he worked as a tent-maker to take care of his own needs and to help his companions. Thus, he influenced the ethics of Ephesian society by showing that it's important to be self-sufficient for the sake of "helping the weak." He took care of his own needs to the extent that he could, not to be self-sufficient in an isolated sort of way, but to be generous toward others.
I have the same reason for not charging a fee for anything provided by Good News Ministries. My husband's salary enables me to do this, and to make up for what his income lacks, I started my own tent-making business, i.e., Catholic Digital Resources. Meanwhile, until that generates enough income, I am very grateful for the generous donations of some readers of these daily Good News Reflections, who are "helping the weak" with me.
However, I have learned much from relying on God to provide for this ministry through those who benefit from it. Self-sufficiency can feel like independence, and independence can easily lead to separation from community. This happens when we pridefully try to take care of all of our needs by ourselves and, when we cannot, we reject the help that God wants to give us through others. The Church is a community, and this means that our own needs are AS important as everyone else's. Living the Gospel means giving AND receiving so that we have more to give.
If you have needs that are not being met, the misery you feel is a warning flag. Either you're not availing yourself of what God wants to give you through others, or others are saying no to being used by God. As St. Paul demonstrated, by receiving what we need and sharing what we have, we transform the world.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Finishing the work despite hardships
Good News ReflectionTuesday of the Seventh Week of EasterMay 26, 2009
Today's Memorial: Saint Philiph NeriPray for a spirit of joy and laughter http://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/PhilipNeri.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 20:17-27Ps 68:10-11, 20-21 (with 33a)John 17:1-11ahttp://www.usccb.org/nab/052609.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_26.mp3
Finishing the work despite hardships
If we could foresee the hardships that lay ahead of us on our paths of service in the kingdom of God, we'd come up with good excuses not to do it. (Hey, we do that already, just by imagining possible hardships! No wonder there are so many of us who do so little ministry or volunteer services or fighting against injustices.)
As we see in today's first reading, St. Paul knew that going to Jerusalem would mean "chains and hardships", so why did he go? Wouldn't he be just as useful to the Lord if he stayed where he was accepted and appreciated?
Back in 1996, as I was praising God for the Good News Evangelization School that we were holding in my parish, I felt God ask me, "Are you willing to suffer to become a better minister for my kingdom?" I wrestled with him over that until he reminded me: "I'm safe. Trust me." And thus began a series of chains and hardships that have not yet ended. And today, I am very grateful for them all!
St. Paul trusted God, even while he knew that he was not safe from those who would imprison him and eventually kill him for preaching the truth. What makes a person willing to say yes to God's calling when it's a certainty that it won't always be easy and fun, when being safe in God does not mean being safe from persecution and hardships?
Paul answered this question. He said, "I put no value on my life. I only value finishing the service that the Lord Jesus has assigned to me." Jesus also answered it in today's Gospel passage: "I have given you glory, Father, by accomplishing the work you gave me to do."
Which matters more: your life (your comfort, your security, your freedom from problems) or God's work, which he gave you to accomplish and which no one else can do the way you can do it? — work that you were specifically designed to do, work that will fulfill you more than anything other activities.
We all have our assignments. You are in the middle of a very important one right now. Recognize the worth of what you're doing; notice how it glorifies God, how it makes a difference for his kingdom. If you don't see the difference yet, well, notice the difference it's made in you as it's helped to shape you more into the image of Christ. Realize the value of your hardships: how they're increasing your holiness, your compassion, and your ability to help others.
My sufferings, as distressing as they have been sometimes, have greatly enhanced the ministries I do now. They account for many of the insights that I share with you in these daily Good News Reflections.
Don't focus on the hardships; keep your eyes on the goal — the finish line, heaven — and on the Lord for whom you're doing this. If we quit, we forfeit our souls to the world, where we are not safe at all. Only in God are we truly safe. He kisses our nail wounds and raises us above the trials into his warm embrace and cozy lap, where we are always safely loved.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Today's Memorial: Saint Philiph NeriPray for a spirit of joy and laughter http://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/PhilipNeri.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 20:17-27Ps 68:10-11, 20-21 (with 33a)John 17:1-11ahttp://www.usccb.org/nab/052609.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_26.mp3
Finishing the work despite hardships
If we could foresee the hardships that lay ahead of us on our paths of service in the kingdom of God, we'd come up with good excuses not to do it. (Hey, we do that already, just by imagining possible hardships! No wonder there are so many of us who do so little ministry or volunteer services or fighting against injustices.)
As we see in today's first reading, St. Paul knew that going to Jerusalem would mean "chains and hardships", so why did he go? Wouldn't he be just as useful to the Lord if he stayed where he was accepted and appreciated?
Back in 1996, as I was praising God for the Good News Evangelization School that we were holding in my parish, I felt God ask me, "Are you willing to suffer to become a better minister for my kingdom?" I wrestled with him over that until he reminded me: "I'm safe. Trust me." And thus began a series of chains and hardships that have not yet ended. And today, I am very grateful for them all!
St. Paul trusted God, even while he knew that he was not safe from those who would imprison him and eventually kill him for preaching the truth. What makes a person willing to say yes to God's calling when it's a certainty that it won't always be easy and fun, when being safe in God does not mean being safe from persecution and hardships?
Paul answered this question. He said, "I put no value on my life. I only value finishing the service that the Lord Jesus has assigned to me." Jesus also answered it in today's Gospel passage: "I have given you glory, Father, by accomplishing the work you gave me to do."
Which matters more: your life (your comfort, your security, your freedom from problems) or God's work, which he gave you to accomplish and which no one else can do the way you can do it? — work that you were specifically designed to do, work that will fulfill you more than anything other activities.
We all have our assignments. You are in the middle of a very important one right now. Recognize the worth of what you're doing; notice how it glorifies God, how it makes a difference for his kingdom. If you don't see the difference yet, well, notice the difference it's made in you as it's helped to shape you more into the image of Christ. Realize the value of your hardships: how they're increasing your holiness, your compassion, and your ability to help others.
My sufferings, as distressing as they have been sometimes, have greatly enhanced the ministries I do now. They account for many of the insights that I share with you in these daily Good News Reflections.
Don't focus on the hardships; keep your eyes on the goal — the finish line, heaven — and on the Lord for whom you're doing this. If we quit, we forfeit our souls to the world, where we are not safe at all. Only in God are we truly safe. He kisses our nail wounds and raises us above the trials into his warm embrace and cozy lap, where we are always safely loved.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Do you really believe?
Good News ReflectionMonday of the Seventh Week of EasterMay 25, 2009
Today's Saint: Bede the VenerablePray for faith like the Blessed Motherhttp://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/Bede.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 19:1-8Ps 68:2-7ab (with 33a)John 16:29-33http://www.usccb.org/nab/052509.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_25.mp3
Do you really believe?
As we begin the final week before Pentecost, Jesus asks us, in today's Gospel reading: Do you now believe — that I came from God? That I am God? That I am your Lord? That I love you faithfully and unconditionally? That what I say is true — all the time? "Do you really believe?"
In the first reading, St. Paul asks: "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?" That answer to that one is: Yes, during baptism we received the fullness of God's presence. The Holy Spirit is the presence of Christ our Savior within us.
But … do you really believe this?
There's a difference between receiving God's Spirit by sacrament and living in the Spirit as a faith-filled believer. To live fully by faith requires being fully committed to an active Christian lifestyle, relying on the Holy Spirit to help us become holier and holier each day, continually purifying ourselves so that we are ever-increasingly united to the fullness of God through the gifts of all the sacraments and in the Church community.
True believers have a trusting relationship with God. They regret their sins and realize they're forgiven because of what Jesus did on Good Friday. They understand that with this forgiveness they're able to go to heaven because of what he did on Easter. They want to imitate him by laying down their lives for others in loving service. None of this is possible without the Holy Spirit.
How do you know that the Holy Spirit is active in you? Speaking in tongues and uttering God-inspired prophecies, like we see in the story from Acts, are not the only indications, nor are they necessary. They are just a few examples of outward signs. Read carefully what Jesus tells us in this Gospel passage: True belief brings peace, even in the midst of suffering!
Again, this is only possible by relying on the Holy Spirit. We lose peace when we rely on our own resources and our limited perceptions of the problems we face. Faith, hope, and inner peace come from relying on the Spirit of Christ, who is the Higher Power behind all of our overcomings, and who lives within each of us like a fountain of grace waiting to be released.
Pope John Paul the Great gave us this beautiful prayer to the Holy Spirit (May 30, 1998): "Come, Holy Spirit, come and renew the face of the earth! Come with your seven gifts! Come, Spirit of Life, Spirit of Communion and Love!"
Let us journey toward heaven with this prayer daily on our lips.
For more reflections and prayers regarding the Holy Spirit, please visit Catholic Digital Resources™:http://catholicdr.com/calendar/Easter-Pentecost
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Today's Saint: Bede the VenerablePray for faith like the Blessed Motherhttp://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/Bede.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 19:1-8Ps 68:2-7ab (with 33a)John 16:29-33http://www.usccb.org/nab/052509.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_25.mp3
Do you really believe?
As we begin the final week before Pentecost, Jesus asks us, in today's Gospel reading: Do you now believe — that I came from God? That I am God? That I am your Lord? That I love you faithfully and unconditionally? That what I say is true — all the time? "Do you really believe?"
In the first reading, St. Paul asks: "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?" That answer to that one is: Yes, during baptism we received the fullness of God's presence. The Holy Spirit is the presence of Christ our Savior within us.
But … do you really believe this?
There's a difference between receiving God's Spirit by sacrament and living in the Spirit as a faith-filled believer. To live fully by faith requires being fully committed to an active Christian lifestyle, relying on the Holy Spirit to help us become holier and holier each day, continually purifying ourselves so that we are ever-increasingly united to the fullness of God through the gifts of all the sacraments and in the Church community.
True believers have a trusting relationship with God. They regret their sins and realize they're forgiven because of what Jesus did on Good Friday. They understand that with this forgiveness they're able to go to heaven because of what he did on Easter. They want to imitate him by laying down their lives for others in loving service. None of this is possible without the Holy Spirit.
How do you know that the Holy Spirit is active in you? Speaking in tongues and uttering God-inspired prophecies, like we see in the story from Acts, are not the only indications, nor are they necessary. They are just a few examples of outward signs. Read carefully what Jesus tells us in this Gospel passage: True belief brings peace, even in the midst of suffering!
Again, this is only possible by relying on the Holy Spirit. We lose peace when we rely on our own resources and our limited perceptions of the problems we face. Faith, hope, and inner peace come from relying on the Spirit of Christ, who is the Higher Power behind all of our overcomings, and who lives within each of us like a fountain of grace waiting to be released.
Pope John Paul the Great gave us this beautiful prayer to the Holy Spirit (May 30, 1998): "Come, Holy Spirit, come and renew the face of the earth! Come with your seven gifts! Come, Spirit of Life, Spirit of Communion and Love!"
Let us journey toward heaven with this prayer daily on our lips.
For more reflections and prayers regarding the Holy Spirit, please visit Catholic Digital Resources™:http://catholicdr.com/calendar/Easter-Pentecost
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Thursday, May 21, 2009
The labor pains of waiting
Good News ReflectionFriday of the Sixth Week of EasterMay 22, 2009
Today's Saint: Rita of Casciahttp://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/RitaCascia.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 18:9-18Ps 47:2-8aJohn 16:20-23http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052209.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_22.mp3
The labor pains of waiting
Oh how hard it is to stay focused on God when our trials take a long time! Our eyes wander, Jesus fades from view, and the problems grab our attention like large billboards with neon colors. How could waiting possibly help us stand firm in our faith?
In today's Gospel passage, Jesus speaks of a woman in labor. The pain is grievous, but after the baby is born, the pain is remembered as a sweet suffering well worth enduring. Taking this analogy further, we can compare the whole pregnancy to the long journey of enduring a problem. For the first few months, we get quite sick to our stomachs; nausea makes the waiting very unpleasant. Sometimes, due to complications, the whole duration can be a horrible ordeal.
Just like a pregnancy, every problem does have an ending, even if it's not until we go home to heaven. So what should we do in the meantime? How can we emotionally survive the wait and use it to become more spiritually mature and grow closer to God?
After the conception of new life, the womb becomes a sacred space, because God's handiwork dwells there. The woman's body might be suffering from nausea or back aches or labor pains, but inside that sacred space, a treasure is being nourished and formed.
In your prayer life, create a sacred space in your mind after asking the Holy Spirit to anoint your imagination. It could be a secret room. It might be a field of flowers. Mine is a boat that I "built" with Jesus (we christened it "The Queen Mary"); it's often visited by the Blessed Mother who serves as hostess for our get-togethers.
Imagine every detail of your sacred space so that it feels real. Give Jesus a place to sit. Then bring to Jesus whatever problems you're dealing with, whatever you're suffering, whatever you're wishing would hurry up and come to an end. Ask him to transform it into blessings. Listen to his response. Thank him, lean on him, rest on his shoulder, and don't leave before you feel thoroughly loved.
Outside this place, get busy with the rest of your life. God has much adventure and many blessings to give you while you're waiting for the answer to your prayers. Meanwhile, because you left your concerns with Jesus in your sacred space, they are being protected and nourished, like a developing fetus. When you feel a kick from that child or nausea, thank Jesus for taking care of the situation in ways that you cannot yet see, and remind yourself that the day WILL come when this child is ready to be born.
It's all part of a process and God is overseeing every detail. Any time you suppose that a problem will never cease, go back to your sacred space and meet again with Jesus.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Today's Saint: Rita of Casciahttp://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/RitaCascia.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 18:9-18Ps 47:2-8aJohn 16:20-23http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052209.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_22.mp3
The labor pains of waiting
Oh how hard it is to stay focused on God when our trials take a long time! Our eyes wander, Jesus fades from view, and the problems grab our attention like large billboards with neon colors. How could waiting possibly help us stand firm in our faith?
In today's Gospel passage, Jesus speaks of a woman in labor. The pain is grievous, but after the baby is born, the pain is remembered as a sweet suffering well worth enduring. Taking this analogy further, we can compare the whole pregnancy to the long journey of enduring a problem. For the first few months, we get quite sick to our stomachs; nausea makes the waiting very unpleasant. Sometimes, due to complications, the whole duration can be a horrible ordeal.
Just like a pregnancy, every problem does have an ending, even if it's not until we go home to heaven. So what should we do in the meantime? How can we emotionally survive the wait and use it to become more spiritually mature and grow closer to God?
After the conception of new life, the womb becomes a sacred space, because God's handiwork dwells there. The woman's body might be suffering from nausea or back aches or labor pains, but inside that sacred space, a treasure is being nourished and formed.
In your prayer life, create a sacred space in your mind after asking the Holy Spirit to anoint your imagination. It could be a secret room. It might be a field of flowers. Mine is a boat that I "built" with Jesus (we christened it "The Queen Mary"); it's often visited by the Blessed Mother who serves as hostess for our get-togethers.
Imagine every detail of your sacred space so that it feels real. Give Jesus a place to sit. Then bring to Jesus whatever problems you're dealing with, whatever you're suffering, whatever you're wishing would hurry up and come to an end. Ask him to transform it into blessings. Listen to his response. Thank him, lean on him, rest on his shoulder, and don't leave before you feel thoroughly loved.
Outside this place, get busy with the rest of your life. God has much adventure and many blessings to give you while you're waiting for the answer to your prayers. Meanwhile, because you left your concerns with Jesus in your sacred space, they are being protected and nourished, like a developing fetus. When you feel a kick from that child or nausea, thank Jesus for taking care of the situation in ways that you cannot yet see, and remind yourself that the day WILL come when this child is ready to be born.
It's all part of a process and God is overseeing every detail. Any time you suppose that a problem will never cease, go back to your sacred space and meet again with Jesus.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Why did Jesus ascend to heaven?
Good News ReflectionThe Ascension of the LordMay 21, 2009
Today's Readings:Acts 1:1-11Ps 47:2-3, 6-9Eph 1:17-23 or Eph 4:1-13Mark 16:15-20http://www.usccb.org/nab/052109a.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_21.mp3
Why did Jesus ascend to heaven?
Why did Jesus ascend to heaven? Think of how readily people would have converted if he had resumed his public ministry after his resurrection. Even the Pharisees who had seen him die would have fallen at his feet in repentance.
However, God's salvation plan for the world was much bigger than that, much greater. While Jesus walked the earth, he was but one human. Afterward, by giving himself in the Eucharist to his disciples, he became every human who takes this gift seriously. When we receive Jesus in the Eucharist, we unite ourselves to his mission. In every eucharistic liturgy, we are "co-missioned" — i.e., placed into mission with Jesus — to continue the ministry that he began.
As we see in today's Gospel reading, before he ascended to heaven, Jesus commissioned every disciple — including you and me today — for this task. This commissioning rite is repeated at the end of every Mass, when the priest, on behalf of Christ, sends us forth to love and serve the Lord to make a difference in the world.
It's a difficult mission. Humanly we are quite inadequate, so Jesus gave us his Holy Spirit. By uniting our spirit to his Spirit and then relying on God in every situation, adequacy is not the question. It's willingness. Are we willing to put time and effort and spiritual growth into being Christ's hands and feet and voice for the world?
Because Jesus ascended to heaven, he has no hands but our hands, and he has no voice but our voice.
Are you unhappy about the evils that exist in this world? God has great plans to bring his kingdom into these situations. Are you concerned about the abuses you see? Immorality on television? Injustices in your workplace? Divisions in your parish or hurtful behavior in your leaders? Jesus is far more disturbed by these evils than you are. However, he has no hands but your hands, and he has no voice but your voice.
Ever since Jesus ascended into heaven and sent his Holy Spirit to earth, God has chosen to minister to the world through us, first in our homes, then extending his love into our parishes and work-places and play-places.
In celebration of the Ascension of Our Lord, please join me in praying this:Lord Jesus, fill me with the presence of Your Holy Spirit and with the gifts You want me to use. Show me when and how to use these charisms. And help me to overcome my pride and fears and any other sins that are holding me back from the works that You are calling me to do. I want to be Your hands, Your feet, and Your voice, Lord Jesus. Amen!
And here's a scripture-prayer you can use: http://wordbytes.org/ministry/socialjustice.htmPublished by Catholic Digital Resources, you can order it for distribution here:http://catholicdr.com/faithbuilders/prayers/socialjustice.htm
For help in discerning your personal calling to the mission, try these:http://catholicdr.com/ebooks/GodsWill.htmor http://catholicdr.com/e-Classroom/Redeemer/
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Today's Readings:Acts 1:1-11Ps 47:2-3, 6-9Eph 1:17-23 or Eph 4:1-13Mark 16:15-20http://www.usccb.org/nab/052109a.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_21.mp3
Why did Jesus ascend to heaven?
Why did Jesus ascend to heaven? Think of how readily people would have converted if he had resumed his public ministry after his resurrection. Even the Pharisees who had seen him die would have fallen at his feet in repentance.
However, God's salvation plan for the world was much bigger than that, much greater. While Jesus walked the earth, he was but one human. Afterward, by giving himself in the Eucharist to his disciples, he became every human who takes this gift seriously. When we receive Jesus in the Eucharist, we unite ourselves to his mission. In every eucharistic liturgy, we are "co-missioned" — i.e., placed into mission with Jesus — to continue the ministry that he began.
As we see in today's Gospel reading, before he ascended to heaven, Jesus commissioned every disciple — including you and me today — for this task. This commissioning rite is repeated at the end of every Mass, when the priest, on behalf of Christ, sends us forth to love and serve the Lord to make a difference in the world.
It's a difficult mission. Humanly we are quite inadequate, so Jesus gave us his Holy Spirit. By uniting our spirit to his Spirit and then relying on God in every situation, adequacy is not the question. It's willingness. Are we willing to put time and effort and spiritual growth into being Christ's hands and feet and voice for the world?
Because Jesus ascended to heaven, he has no hands but our hands, and he has no voice but our voice.
Are you unhappy about the evils that exist in this world? God has great plans to bring his kingdom into these situations. Are you concerned about the abuses you see? Immorality on television? Injustices in your workplace? Divisions in your parish or hurtful behavior in your leaders? Jesus is far more disturbed by these evils than you are. However, he has no hands but your hands, and he has no voice but your voice.
Ever since Jesus ascended into heaven and sent his Holy Spirit to earth, God has chosen to minister to the world through us, first in our homes, then extending his love into our parishes and work-places and play-places.
In celebration of the Ascension of Our Lord, please join me in praying this:Lord Jesus, fill me with the presence of Your Holy Spirit and with the gifts You want me to use. Show me when and how to use these charisms. And help me to overcome my pride and fears and any other sins that are holding me back from the works that You are calling me to do. I want to be Your hands, Your feet, and Your voice, Lord Jesus. Amen!
And here's a scripture-prayer you can use: http://wordbytes.org/ministry/socialjustice.htmPublished by Catholic Digital Resources, you can order it for distribution here:http://catholicdr.com/faithbuilders/prayers/socialjustice.htm
For help in discerning your personal calling to the mission, try these:http://catholicdr.com/ebooks/GodsWill.htmor http://catholicdr.com/e-Classroom/Redeemer/
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
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Waiting patiently in happy ignorance
Good News ReflectionWednesday of the Sixth Week of EasterMay 20, 2009
Today's Saint: Bernardine of Sienahttp://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/BernardineSiena.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 17:15, 22--18:1Ps 148:1-2, 11-14John 16:12-15http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052009.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_20.mp3
Waiting patiently in happy ignorance
In today's Gospel passage, Jesus says: "I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now." Oh please, Jesus, tell me now; send me an email!
We don't like feeling uncertain about the future. We want to know about God's plans about how or even IF our prayers will be answered. We want to know how things will turn out if we say yes to a new job or a ministry or a challenging donation of our time. We want to know how long we must continue trying to evangelize others before they finally wake up and repent, especially when their worldly ways are causing us problems.
In our chats with God, we say: "Okay, if I do what you're asking, what will happen?" or "Will this trial ever end?" or "Ahem, please explain further so I can base my decision on how logical this sounds."
Being ignorant of the details can be scary. We know there's a bigger picture, but all we've got to work with are a few small puzzle pieces. We're not in control. Ohhhmygosh, this means we have to trust God!
What seems to be a frightening silence is really a huge gift. Imagine if God were to sit you down in a nice quiet prayer room and display on the wall a movie that shows everything he's going to do in your life: everything he's asking of you, what you'll have to endure to accomplish it, all the hurdles you'll face, how he'll be stretching you beyond what's comfortable and familiar. Do you really want to know all this? Even though the movie would also show the fun of it, the good times, God's helping hand, the wonderful fruits and rewards, etc., wouldn't you freak out? I know I would.
We should thank God for our ignorance! It's a great relief to trustingly let the Holy Spirit have full control. Jesus says in this Gospel message: "The Spirit of Truth will guide you to all truth." The Holy Spirit will "announce" to us whatever we need to know, not when WE want to know it, but when it truly is the perfect time to know it.
Life's greatest adventures come from trusting God in the midst of ignorance. Have you ever ridden a roller coaster that has surprising twists and turns? It's popular with riders who like the thrill of not knowing where they're going, where's the next dip, the next spin, the next upside-down loop. The life of a Christian is just as thrilling! Don't worry. Even if you don't like roller coasters, it can be a safe adventure. God is your seat belt — he holds you in his lap very securely.
For safety, please don't try to climb out before the ride is over.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Today's Saint: Bernardine of Sienahttp://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/BernardineSiena.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 17:15, 22--18:1Ps 148:1-2, 11-14John 16:12-15http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/052009.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_20.mp3
Waiting patiently in happy ignorance
In today's Gospel passage, Jesus says: "I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now." Oh please, Jesus, tell me now; send me an email!
We don't like feeling uncertain about the future. We want to know about God's plans about how or even IF our prayers will be answered. We want to know how things will turn out if we say yes to a new job or a ministry or a challenging donation of our time. We want to know how long we must continue trying to evangelize others before they finally wake up and repent, especially when their worldly ways are causing us problems.
In our chats with God, we say: "Okay, if I do what you're asking, what will happen?" or "Will this trial ever end?" or "Ahem, please explain further so I can base my decision on how logical this sounds."
Being ignorant of the details can be scary. We know there's a bigger picture, but all we've got to work with are a few small puzzle pieces. We're not in control. Ohhhmygosh, this means we have to trust God!
What seems to be a frightening silence is really a huge gift. Imagine if God were to sit you down in a nice quiet prayer room and display on the wall a movie that shows everything he's going to do in your life: everything he's asking of you, what you'll have to endure to accomplish it, all the hurdles you'll face, how he'll be stretching you beyond what's comfortable and familiar. Do you really want to know all this? Even though the movie would also show the fun of it, the good times, God's helping hand, the wonderful fruits and rewards, etc., wouldn't you freak out? I know I would.
We should thank God for our ignorance! It's a great relief to trustingly let the Holy Spirit have full control. Jesus says in this Gospel message: "The Spirit of Truth will guide you to all truth." The Holy Spirit will "announce" to us whatever we need to know, not when WE want to know it, but when it truly is the perfect time to know it.
Life's greatest adventures come from trusting God in the midst of ignorance. Have you ever ridden a roller coaster that has surprising twists and turns? It's popular with riders who like the thrill of not knowing where they're going, where's the next dip, the next spin, the next upside-down loop. The life of a Christian is just as thrilling! Don't worry. Even if you don't like roller coasters, it can be a safe adventure. God is your seat belt — he holds you in his lap very securely.
For safety, please don't try to climb out before the ride is over.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
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Monday, May 18, 2009
The saving hand of God
Good News ReflectionTuesday of the Sixth Week of EasterMay 19, 2009
Today's Saint: Dunstanhttp://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/Dunstan.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 16:22-34Ps 138:1-3, 7c-8John 16:5-11http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051909.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_19.mp3
The saving hand of God
Psalm 138:7 declares that "Your right hand saves me, O Lord." In biblical symbolism, the "right hand" of God means the power of God reaching out to help us. In Acts 16:22-34, we see how this helping hand of God works in unexpected ways.
God does not do everything that we want him to, when we want him to do it, the way we want him to do it. For Paul and Silas, God's powerful hand did not pop open the prison doors just because they asked for help. More was at stake than the lives of these two men. Notice the others who were touched by God's intervention.
God is always mindful of the bigger picture and the bigger purposes that can be accomplished in all situations. He cares about the needs and the souls of all those who are involved in our trials as much he cares about us. The question is, are we willing to wait for his help when others are slowing the process?
Paul and Silas cooperated with God's plan by remaining focused on Jesus through prayer and joyful hymns. They could have allowed themselves to be distracted by the terrible conditions of their imprisonment and the disaster that had stopped their ministry and might stop their lives. They could have been resentful and angry toward those who had put them there. They could have been lamenting that it was all so unfair.
Like we so often do.
However, they chose to trust God no matter what had happened or would happen. They believed that, since he was more powerful than the forces that had put them into prison, their current troubles had become part of a plan that would somehow benefit his kingdom. And because they wanted nothing more than to BE a benefit to his kingdom, they closed their eyes to the evidence of evil and opened their eyes to the presence of God.
We can do this!
Only when we're open to and focused on the presence of God are we able to know what to do next when the saving power of God manifests itself. If we had been in Paul's and Silas' sandals, would we have run out of the prison as soon as the doors popped open? In Acts 12, Peter was in a similar situation, and God (through an angel) had him do just that. But not this time. Through the predicament of Paul and Silas, God stretched his hand out to the jailer and his family. Because Paul and Silas were sensitive to his will, they cooperated with his saving hand and became the instruments he played to bring others to salvation.
How awesome to allow God to turn our problems into a plan that helps others!
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Today's Saint: Dunstanhttp://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/Dunstan.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 16:22-34Ps 138:1-3, 7c-8John 16:5-11http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051909.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_19.mp3
The saving hand of God
Psalm 138:7 declares that "Your right hand saves me, O Lord." In biblical symbolism, the "right hand" of God means the power of God reaching out to help us. In Acts 16:22-34, we see how this helping hand of God works in unexpected ways.
God does not do everything that we want him to, when we want him to do it, the way we want him to do it. For Paul and Silas, God's powerful hand did not pop open the prison doors just because they asked for help. More was at stake than the lives of these two men. Notice the others who were touched by God's intervention.
God is always mindful of the bigger picture and the bigger purposes that can be accomplished in all situations. He cares about the needs and the souls of all those who are involved in our trials as much he cares about us. The question is, are we willing to wait for his help when others are slowing the process?
Paul and Silas cooperated with God's plan by remaining focused on Jesus through prayer and joyful hymns. They could have allowed themselves to be distracted by the terrible conditions of their imprisonment and the disaster that had stopped their ministry and might stop their lives. They could have been resentful and angry toward those who had put them there. They could have been lamenting that it was all so unfair.
Like we so often do.
However, they chose to trust God no matter what had happened or would happen. They believed that, since he was more powerful than the forces that had put them into prison, their current troubles had become part of a plan that would somehow benefit his kingdom. And because they wanted nothing more than to BE a benefit to his kingdom, they closed their eyes to the evidence of evil and opened their eyes to the presence of God.
We can do this!
Only when we're open to and focused on the presence of God are we able to know what to do next when the saving power of God manifests itself. If we had been in Paul's and Silas' sandals, would we have run out of the prison as soon as the doors popped open? In Acts 12, Peter was in a similar situation, and God (through an angel) had him do just that. But not this time. Through the predicament of Paul and Silas, God stretched his hand out to the jailer and his family. Because Paul and Silas were sensitive to his will, they cooperated with his saving hand and became the instruments he played to bring others to salvation.
How awesome to allow God to turn our problems into a plan that helps others!
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Testifying to Jesus
Good News ReflectionMonday of the Sixth Week of EasterMay 18, 2009
Today's Readings:Acts 16:11-15Ps 149:1b-6a,9bJohn 15:26--16:4ahttp://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051809.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_18.mp3
Testifying to Jesus
In today's Gospel reading, Jesus points out that the Holy Spirit "testifies" to Jesus. The Spirit of Truth, sent by the Father, speaks the truth (as God the Advocate) about who Jesus really is and what he is doing for us. This is why you responded to the truth when you heard it. On our own, all of us would have rejected it as something that doesn't fit with our earthly, sin-prone desires and expectations.
Whenever someone converts to Christ or grows in the faith, it's because the Holy Spirit has prepared the heart to recognize the truth. Only the Holy Spirit can reach a soul and teach it the truth. And we who have already accepted the truth are the books that God uses to make the lessons easier to understand.
How are you "testifying to Jesus"? We are witnesses of the truth whenever we act upon our faith in the circumstances of daily life. We advocate the truth whenever our behaviors reveal the advantages of believing in Christ. Everything we do and say should reflect who Jesus really is.
Are there any words that come out of your mouth that testify against Jesus? Have any of your recent decisions testified against his trustworthiness? Does the way you handle difficult people testify against his love?
Jesus goes on to say that "the hour is coming when everyone who kills you will think he is offering worship to God." Applying this to today's troubles, is anyone killing your efforts to use your gifts and talents for the kingdom of God? Maybe you're trying to right a wrong or stand up for a truth that others don't want to hear and you're being persecuted by your fellow Christians.
When a new scandal or other problem arises, what is your testimony? Are you silent? Fearful? Negative? Complaining? Publicly expressing anger? These are normal reactions, but if we remain stuck here, we're testifying that evil is stronger than God. On the other hand, if we work with the Holy Spirit to be the Advocate of Christ, we can testify to his healing and redemptive power; we can become the advocate of justice and love.
Christian living is never easy. Testifying to Jesus means walking with him to the cross and suffering in unity with his sacrificial death. The greatest testimony of this walk, however, is the resurrection, the renewed life that always comes afterward, and the Pentecost of the Holy Spirit's empowerment.
Problems in the Church, in our relationships, and in everything else are all opportunities for God's glory to be revealed. They are purgings that lead to purity, trials that build faith, lessons that teach us to keep our eyes on Jesus, and dyings that raise up greater reliance upon God. We should never fear that exposing problems to seek a cure will only lead to disaster.
Let us raise our voices to declare the glory of God and testify to Jesus by being good examples of his truth and love! May every scandal and hardship end up reflecting who Jesus really is, amen!
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Today's Readings:Acts 16:11-15Ps 149:1b-6a,9bJohn 15:26--16:4ahttp://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051809.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_18.mp3
Testifying to Jesus
In today's Gospel reading, Jesus points out that the Holy Spirit "testifies" to Jesus. The Spirit of Truth, sent by the Father, speaks the truth (as God the Advocate) about who Jesus really is and what he is doing for us. This is why you responded to the truth when you heard it. On our own, all of us would have rejected it as something that doesn't fit with our earthly, sin-prone desires and expectations.
Whenever someone converts to Christ or grows in the faith, it's because the Holy Spirit has prepared the heart to recognize the truth. Only the Holy Spirit can reach a soul and teach it the truth. And we who have already accepted the truth are the books that God uses to make the lessons easier to understand.
How are you "testifying to Jesus"? We are witnesses of the truth whenever we act upon our faith in the circumstances of daily life. We advocate the truth whenever our behaviors reveal the advantages of believing in Christ. Everything we do and say should reflect who Jesus really is.
Are there any words that come out of your mouth that testify against Jesus? Have any of your recent decisions testified against his trustworthiness? Does the way you handle difficult people testify against his love?
Jesus goes on to say that "the hour is coming when everyone who kills you will think he is offering worship to God." Applying this to today's troubles, is anyone killing your efforts to use your gifts and talents for the kingdom of God? Maybe you're trying to right a wrong or stand up for a truth that others don't want to hear and you're being persecuted by your fellow Christians.
When a new scandal or other problem arises, what is your testimony? Are you silent? Fearful? Negative? Complaining? Publicly expressing anger? These are normal reactions, but if we remain stuck here, we're testifying that evil is stronger than God. On the other hand, if we work with the Holy Spirit to be the Advocate of Christ, we can testify to his healing and redemptive power; we can become the advocate of justice and love.
Christian living is never easy. Testifying to Jesus means walking with him to the cross and suffering in unity with his sacrificial death. The greatest testimony of this walk, however, is the resurrection, the renewed life that always comes afterward, and the Pentecost of the Holy Spirit's empowerment.
Problems in the Church, in our relationships, and in everything else are all opportunities for God's glory to be revealed. They are purgings that lead to purity, trials that build faith, lessons that teach us to keep our eyes on Jesus, and dyings that raise up greater reliance upon God. We should never fear that exposing problems to seek a cure will only lead to disaster.
Let us raise our voices to declare the glory of God and testify to Jesus by being good examples of his truth and love! May every scandal and hardship end up reflecting who Jesus really is, amen!
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Laying down your life for Jesus
Good News ReflectionFriday of the Fifth Week of EasterMay 15, 2009
Today's Readings:Acts 15:22-31Ps 57:8-10, 12John 15:12-17http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051509.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_15.mp3
Laying down your life for JesusIn today's Gospel reading, Jesus emphasizes that he has chosen us to be his friends. HE chose YOU! He looked at you and said to the Father, "I want to be close friends with this one!"Slaves serve their masters out of fear and duty. Friends serve each other because they care. Jesus doesn't want us to serve him with the "do it or else" fear of punishment. Nor does he want us to serve him out of obligation and duty. Rather, he wants us to realize that he's here to serve us because he cares about us. Then, because we appreciate him so much, we want to serve him by helping him serve others. In our enthusiastic love for Jesus, we love everyone whom he loves, and we want to serve them as he serves them. Jesus and you are friends who partner together to make the world a better place.Jesus summarized all of the commandments of God in one sentence: "Love one another as I love you." Do you obey God because you love OTHERS? Do you obey Church teachings because you love others? We are friends of Jesus to the extent that we love everyone whom he loves and to the extent that we serve them as he serves them, for he serves them not only with us but through us. This of course means doing good to everyone, even those who bring trouble into our lives. Jesus is our example of how to serve the sinner while being uncooperative with their sins. Loving means caring; it does not mean putting up with evil. Do you pray for those who've made you suffer? Not this kind of prayer: "Punish them God the way they deserve. Make them suffer like they made me suffer." Instead, do you ask God to heal their souls and bless them with his mercy? If they don't repent, they will reap what they sow and suffer terrible consequences. Do you feel sad for them?It can be difficult, but by uniting ourselves to Jesus and his way of handling sinners, we obey the Father just like Jesus did. Then, whatever we ask the Father in his name (i.e., while united to Jesus), it will be given to us. This is a fact, because when we're united to Jesus, we don't ask for anything that is not already the Father's will for us. And thus, Jesus gets another opportunity to serve us, to his great delight.If we want to grow deeper in our love relationship with God, we will serve our friend Jesus by serving those around us, because he cares about them and so do we. In friendship, Jesus serves us as we walk the extra mile for others. Love is the bottom line and top priority of every decision we make and every action we take, even if it doesn't seem right in our limited understanding and our wounded hearts. This is how we lay down our lives for our friend Jesus.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
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Today's Readings:Acts 15:22-31Ps 57:8-10, 12John 15:12-17http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051509.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_15.mp3
Laying down your life for JesusIn today's Gospel reading, Jesus emphasizes that he has chosen us to be his friends. HE chose YOU! He looked at you and said to the Father, "I want to be close friends with this one!"Slaves serve their masters out of fear and duty. Friends serve each other because they care. Jesus doesn't want us to serve him with the "do it or else" fear of punishment. Nor does he want us to serve him out of obligation and duty. Rather, he wants us to realize that he's here to serve us because he cares about us. Then, because we appreciate him so much, we want to serve him by helping him serve others. In our enthusiastic love for Jesus, we love everyone whom he loves, and we want to serve them as he serves them. Jesus and you are friends who partner together to make the world a better place.Jesus summarized all of the commandments of God in one sentence: "Love one another as I love you." Do you obey God because you love OTHERS? Do you obey Church teachings because you love others? We are friends of Jesus to the extent that we love everyone whom he loves and to the extent that we serve them as he serves them, for he serves them not only with us but through us. This of course means doing good to everyone, even those who bring trouble into our lives. Jesus is our example of how to serve the sinner while being uncooperative with their sins. Loving means caring; it does not mean putting up with evil. Do you pray for those who've made you suffer? Not this kind of prayer: "Punish them God the way they deserve. Make them suffer like they made me suffer." Instead, do you ask God to heal their souls and bless them with his mercy? If they don't repent, they will reap what they sow and suffer terrible consequences. Do you feel sad for them?It can be difficult, but by uniting ourselves to Jesus and his way of handling sinners, we obey the Father just like Jesus did. Then, whatever we ask the Father in his name (i.e., while united to Jesus), it will be given to us. This is a fact, because when we're united to Jesus, we don't ask for anything that is not already the Father's will for us. And thus, Jesus gets another opportunity to serve us, to his great delight.If we want to grow deeper in our love relationship with God, we will serve our friend Jesus by serving those around us, because he cares about them and so do we. In friendship, Jesus serves us as we walk the extra mile for others. Love is the bottom line and top priority of every decision we make and every action we take, even if it doesn't seem right in our limited understanding and our wounded hearts. This is how we lay down our lives for our friend Jesus.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
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Wednesday, May 13, 2009
The winning lottery ticket
Good News ReflectionThursday of the Fifth Week of EasterMay 14, 2009
Today's Feast: Saint Matthias, Apostle Pray for vocations:http://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/Matthias.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 1:15-17, 20-26Ps 113:1-8John 15:9-17http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051409.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_14.mp3
The winning lottery ticket
Today's first reading shows how Saint Matthias became one of the "official" twelve Apostles or first bishops of the Church. Until this ceremony, he had been one of the many unnamed disciples who followed Jesus throughout his ministry. He watched the baptism of Jesus. He travelled with Jesus to learn from him. He was probably among the seventy-two whom Jesus appointed and sent out ahead of him (see Luke 10) to practice preaching the Good News.
He might even have been present at the Last Supper when Jesus instituted the Sacrament of the Eucharist, although he wasn't one of the twelve who were seated at table with him. And apparently he witnessed the crucifixion, encountered the risen Christ, and watched him ascend to heaven after hearing Jesus commission all of his disciples to spread the Good News throughout the earth.
What can St. Matthias teach us today? We know very little about him, but in the way he was ordained we are reminded that sometimes our vocations come unexpectedly after a period of serving in a different kind of calling.
Did Matthias ever wish to become included in Christ's innermost circle? Did his spirit stir when he grew in grace and spiritual wisdom as he listened to Jesus for three solid years of training and education? Did this cause him to strive for a leadership role in the spreading of the Good News?
From the scriptures, we can only see that he responded to the call of the priesthood in one short day, when Christ inspired Peter to find a replacement for Judas, and he was nominated by his peers, and the lottery selected him instead of Barsabbas.
What has Jesus selected you to do? How many readers of this reflection have a calling to the priesthood or permanent diaconate without yet knowing anything but an inner stirring of the spirit? And those who are not called to be clergy: What is your apostolate?
The word "apostle" means "one who is sent". Vatican Council II produced a document, entitled The Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity, urging all lay people to realize that they been sent by Christ to spread God's kingdom throughout the earth. We all have unique but necessary roles connected to the ministry of Christ. In this decree, the bishops officially call us to contribute to Christ's mission by fully utilizing our particular gifts and talents and opportunities.
What are you waiting for? The winning lottery ticket? You already have it! Say yes to doing whatever Jesus is calling you to do next, whatever interest is stirring up within your heart. In the eyes of St. Matthias, taking action on your calling makes you quite a big winner.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
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Today's Feast: Saint Matthias, Apostle Pray for vocations:http://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/Matthias.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 1:15-17, 20-26Ps 113:1-8John 15:9-17http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051409.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_14.mp3
The winning lottery ticket
Today's first reading shows how Saint Matthias became one of the "official" twelve Apostles or first bishops of the Church. Until this ceremony, he had been one of the many unnamed disciples who followed Jesus throughout his ministry. He watched the baptism of Jesus. He travelled with Jesus to learn from him. He was probably among the seventy-two whom Jesus appointed and sent out ahead of him (see Luke 10) to practice preaching the Good News.
He might even have been present at the Last Supper when Jesus instituted the Sacrament of the Eucharist, although he wasn't one of the twelve who were seated at table with him. And apparently he witnessed the crucifixion, encountered the risen Christ, and watched him ascend to heaven after hearing Jesus commission all of his disciples to spread the Good News throughout the earth.
What can St. Matthias teach us today? We know very little about him, but in the way he was ordained we are reminded that sometimes our vocations come unexpectedly after a period of serving in a different kind of calling.
Did Matthias ever wish to become included in Christ's innermost circle? Did his spirit stir when he grew in grace and spiritual wisdom as he listened to Jesus for three solid years of training and education? Did this cause him to strive for a leadership role in the spreading of the Good News?
From the scriptures, we can only see that he responded to the call of the priesthood in one short day, when Christ inspired Peter to find a replacement for Judas, and he was nominated by his peers, and the lottery selected him instead of Barsabbas.
What has Jesus selected you to do? How many readers of this reflection have a calling to the priesthood or permanent diaconate without yet knowing anything but an inner stirring of the spirit? And those who are not called to be clergy: What is your apostolate?
The word "apostle" means "one who is sent". Vatican Council II produced a document, entitled The Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity, urging all lay people to realize that they been sent by Christ to spread God's kingdom throughout the earth. We all have unique but necessary roles connected to the ministry of Christ. In this decree, the bishops officially call us to contribute to Christ's mission by fully utilizing our particular gifts and talents and opportunities.
What are you waiting for? The winning lottery ticket? You already have it! Say yes to doing whatever Jesus is calling you to do next, whatever interest is stirring up within your heart. In the eyes of St. Matthias, taking action on your calling makes you quite a big winner.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
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Tuesday, May 12, 2009
The power to overcome evil
Good News ReflectionWednesday of the Fifth Week of EasterMay 13, 2009
Today's Readings:Acts 15:1-6Ps 122:1-5John 15:1-8http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051309.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_13.mp3
The power to overcome evil
How healthy is your branch of the Church? I'm not talking about your parish. As we see in today's Gospel reading, all of us who belong to Christ are part of the same far-reaching vineyard. Jesus is the vine, and because we are all attached to him, we all share the same calling: to bear good fruit.
Why is there so much evil in the world? Why doesn't God raise his almighty hand against war, against abuse, against poverty, against criminals, or against any evil that's corrupting the world and our lives? It's a familiar question. The answer is, HE DOES! But we forget one very important factor.
Jesus and the Bride — the Church — have become one body. He commissioned us — all Christians everywhere — to continue the work he began. He is the vine, and we are the branches that spread out across the earth. He feeds us with the life-blood of his divine vine to give us — who are his earthly body — the power to grow strong and large and bear abundant fruit.
If the branches do not bear good fruit, or ENOUGH good fruit, evil has room to grow and keep on going.
Or to put it into other terms: Jesus conquers evil through his presence in us. First, his body died on the cross for our sins and then conquered death, defeating the power of evil. Now, all those who join themselves to his risen body participate in this victory. (This happens in a very concrete way when we receive the Eucharist.) Connected to Jesus, like grape branches that are connected to their vine, we are strengthened and empowered by his Holy Spirit, which flows through all the healthy branches.
Consider any problem going on in your parish. How would things change if all the clergy and staff and members of ministries were to collaborate in resolving this problem as one body, one huge, interconnected grapevine united to Christ?
There's no value in complaining that there are not enough branches bearing good grapes. We each have a personal responsibility to stay closely connected to Christ and grow the best fruit that we possibly can. How healthy is your own connection to Christ? Are you doing whatever is necessary to prune away everything that works against your joint mission in the Church to overcome evil?
Pruning requires, of course, relying on the Holy Spirit's discernment and the snipping power of our Father's sheers. The more we prune, the healthier our branch gets. Our grapes grow larger and more abundant. Sure it hurts when something gets cut from our lives, but ignoring the need to prune is exactly what allows evil to run rampant in the world. Why? Because it hinders the growth of the good stuff, which is the evil-defeating power of the holiness of Christ that we have flowing within us.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Today's Readings:Acts 15:1-6Ps 122:1-5John 15:1-8http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051309.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_13.mp3
The power to overcome evil
How healthy is your branch of the Church? I'm not talking about your parish. As we see in today's Gospel reading, all of us who belong to Christ are part of the same far-reaching vineyard. Jesus is the vine, and because we are all attached to him, we all share the same calling: to bear good fruit.
Why is there so much evil in the world? Why doesn't God raise his almighty hand against war, against abuse, against poverty, against criminals, or against any evil that's corrupting the world and our lives? It's a familiar question. The answer is, HE DOES! But we forget one very important factor.
Jesus and the Bride — the Church — have become one body. He commissioned us — all Christians everywhere — to continue the work he began. He is the vine, and we are the branches that spread out across the earth. He feeds us with the life-blood of his divine vine to give us — who are his earthly body — the power to grow strong and large and bear abundant fruit.
If the branches do not bear good fruit, or ENOUGH good fruit, evil has room to grow and keep on going.
Or to put it into other terms: Jesus conquers evil through his presence in us. First, his body died on the cross for our sins and then conquered death, defeating the power of evil. Now, all those who join themselves to his risen body participate in this victory. (This happens in a very concrete way when we receive the Eucharist.) Connected to Jesus, like grape branches that are connected to their vine, we are strengthened and empowered by his Holy Spirit, which flows through all the healthy branches.
Consider any problem going on in your parish. How would things change if all the clergy and staff and members of ministries were to collaborate in resolving this problem as one body, one huge, interconnected grapevine united to Christ?
There's no value in complaining that there are not enough branches bearing good grapes. We each have a personal responsibility to stay closely connected to Christ and grow the best fruit that we possibly can. How healthy is your own connection to Christ? Are you doing whatever is necessary to prune away everything that works against your joint mission in the Church to overcome evil?
Pruning requires, of course, relying on the Holy Spirit's discernment and the snipping power of our Father's sheers. The more we prune, the healthier our branch gets. Our grapes grow larger and more abundant. Sure it hurts when something gets cut from our lives, but ignoring the need to prune is exactly what allows evil to run rampant in the world. Why? Because it hinders the growth of the good stuff, which is the evil-defeating power of the holiness of Christ that we have flowing within us.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
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Monday, May 11, 2009
What do you want most from Jesus?
Good News ReflectionTuesday of the Fifth Week of EasterMay 12, 2009
Today's Readings:Acts 14:19-28Ps 145:10-13ab, 21John 14:27-31ahttp://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051209.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_12.mp3
What do you want most from Jesus?
Imagine what it would be like if Jesus were to visit you in person — visibly and audibly — and he sits you down next to him, holds your hands in his, and tenderly tells you that you're about to die. He says that soon he will take you home to live with him forever in heaven.
And further imagine that he smiles at you and then says that before you go, you can give a gift to the people you're leaving behind on earth — any gift at all, no matter what the cost or how impossible it might seem. It'll be your last will and testament. What gift would you choose?
Let's say that you want to give a healing to Uncle Joe, money to pay off the debts of your unemployed friends, and a soul-mate for your single co-worker. But Jesus explains that it must be one and the same gift that you give to each person, a gift directly from you, representing who you are. This gift is the legacy that you will leave behind. They'll mention it at your funeral and joyfully discover that they all received the same wonderful gift from you. It will comfort them in their sorrow.
The legacy that Jesus left behind — his gift to us, which he explained in today's Gospel passage — is peace. True and lasting peace. A peace that calms troubled hearts. A peace that drives away our fears. A peace that is heaven on earth.
If we accept this gift of peace, we have to trust God no matter what's going on around us. We cannot trust our own interpretation of what's best for us and how our problems should be solved. We have to trust in God's wisdom and limitless compassion. If we take our eyes off of Jesus, we turn away from this gift. Remaining in constant communication with him will keep us securely in his peaceful embrace.
Fear tells us not to trust God, which steals us peace by replacing it with troubled hearts. Fear always lies to us. Remember it this way: F.E.A.R. = False Evidence Appearing Real. To regain the peace that Jesus has given you, first identify the falsehoods that your fears are speaking. Then ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you what the truth about it is. Listen carefully. If you need help discerning God's voice, talk to a spiritual director or a prayerful Christian friend. Once the truth becomes audible, trust it. AND ACT UPON IT before fear gets a chance to speak up again!
What gift do you want most from Jesus today? If you have his peace, everything else you want will either follow automatically, in God's perfect timing, or they will no longer matter.
Re-read this Gospel passage and put your own name into it. "My peace I give to you,." Interpret these verses as a personal testament of love from Jesus to you. Receive the gift he has bequeathed to you!
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Today's Readings:Acts 14:19-28Ps 145:10-13ab, 21John 14:27-31ahttp://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051209.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_12.mp3
What do you want most from Jesus?
Imagine what it would be like if Jesus were to visit you in person — visibly and audibly — and he sits you down next to him, holds your hands in his, and tenderly tells you that you're about to die. He says that soon he will take you home to live with him forever in heaven.
And further imagine that he smiles at you and then says that before you go, you can give a gift to the people you're leaving behind on earth — any gift at all, no matter what the cost or how impossible it might seem. It'll be your last will and testament. What gift would you choose?
Let's say that you want to give a healing to Uncle Joe, money to pay off the debts of your unemployed friends, and a soul-mate for your single co-worker. But Jesus explains that it must be one and the same gift that you give to each person, a gift directly from you, representing who you are. This gift is the legacy that you will leave behind. They'll mention it at your funeral and joyfully discover that they all received the same wonderful gift from you. It will comfort them in their sorrow.
The legacy that Jesus left behind — his gift to us, which he explained in today's Gospel passage — is peace. True and lasting peace. A peace that calms troubled hearts. A peace that drives away our fears. A peace that is heaven on earth.
If we accept this gift of peace, we have to trust God no matter what's going on around us. We cannot trust our own interpretation of what's best for us and how our problems should be solved. We have to trust in God's wisdom and limitless compassion. If we take our eyes off of Jesus, we turn away from this gift. Remaining in constant communication with him will keep us securely in his peaceful embrace.
Fear tells us not to trust God, which steals us peace by replacing it with troubled hearts. Fear always lies to us. Remember it this way: F.E.A.R. = False Evidence Appearing Real. To regain the peace that Jesus has given you, first identify the falsehoods that your fears are speaking. Then ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you what the truth about it is. Listen carefully. If you need help discerning God's voice, talk to a spiritual director or a prayerful Christian friend. Once the truth becomes audible, trust it. AND ACT UPON IT before fear gets a chance to speak up again!
What gift do you want most from Jesus today? If you have his peace, everything else you want will either follow automatically, in God's perfect timing, or they will no longer matter.
Re-read this Gospel passage and put your own name into it. "My peace I give to you,
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Humility is a partnership with the Holy Spirit
Good News ReflectionMonday of the Fifth Week of EasterMay 11, 2009
Today's Readings:Acts 14:5-18Ps 115:1-4, 15-16John 14:21-26http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051109.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_11.mp3
Humility is a partnership with the Holy Spirit
True humility is acknowledging the good that you do while knowing and proclaiming that the true source of your goodness is the Holy Spirit.
Your good deeds, your giftedness, and the love that you share while doing good is the fruit of being made in the image of God. But we are all weak and vulnerable to sin; left to our own efforts, we look and act very unlike God. So, Jesus gave us his Holy Spirit to empower us to look like and act like our divine Father.
Even atheists cannot do good on their own. They too were created in the image of God. It is God's goodness within them that causes them to reach out to others in love.
In today's first reading, Jesus heals a lame man through Paul and Barnabas as they preach to the Greeks. The crowds cannot see Jesus; they see only Paul and Barnabas, so they interpret the miracle according to their pagan background — they conclude that Paul and Barnabas are gods.
Paul and Barnabas do deserve some credit. They had to make the decision to do what God inspired them to do. They chose to trust God to work through them. Ministry is a partnership between us and the Holy Spirit.
For example, first Paul noticed the lame man. Immediately, he felt concern for him, like Christ. As he looked at the man, he discerned through the Holy Spirit that he was open to the healing love of God. So, loud enough for all to hear, Paul healed the man as a testimony of the power of Christian compassion.
When the people credited Paul for the miracle, how did he respond? Well, how would you or I respond? We'd probably say, "No, I didn't do anything special" — which is our usual way of dealing with compliments. But not Paul. He knew that true humility means accepting the compliment while giving the credit to God. It's a partnership.
Paul explained that he and Barnabas were bringing good news about the real God. He did not "humbly" cut down his ability to preach, nor did he deny that he was capable of working miracles. He simply took the focus off of himself and put it onto God.
Every good deed that we do is evidence that God is working in us and through us. Humility means realizing that we are inadequate and likely to sin BUT thanks be to God he graces us with his holiness and therefore we can be extraordinary Christians. As it says in today's responsorial Psalm: "Not to us, O Lord, but to Your name give the glory."
Never degrade yourself when complimented. It devalues God's work in you. Acknowledge your partnership with the Holy Spirit by using your life to help others put their focus on Christ.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
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Today's Readings:Acts 14:5-18Ps 115:1-4, 15-16John 14:21-26http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/051109.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_11.mp3
Humility is a partnership with the Holy Spirit
True humility is acknowledging the good that you do while knowing and proclaiming that the true source of your goodness is the Holy Spirit.
Your good deeds, your giftedness, and the love that you share while doing good is the fruit of being made in the image of God. But we are all weak and vulnerable to sin; left to our own efforts, we look and act very unlike God. So, Jesus gave us his Holy Spirit to empower us to look like and act like our divine Father.
Even atheists cannot do good on their own. They too were created in the image of God. It is God's goodness within them that causes them to reach out to others in love.
In today's first reading, Jesus heals a lame man through Paul and Barnabas as they preach to the Greeks. The crowds cannot see Jesus; they see only Paul and Barnabas, so they interpret the miracle according to their pagan background — they conclude that Paul and Barnabas are gods.
Paul and Barnabas do deserve some credit. They had to make the decision to do what God inspired them to do. They chose to trust God to work through them. Ministry is a partnership between us and the Holy Spirit.
For example, first Paul noticed the lame man. Immediately, he felt concern for him, like Christ. As he looked at the man, he discerned through the Holy Spirit that he was open to the healing love of God. So, loud enough for all to hear, Paul healed the man as a testimony of the power of Christian compassion.
When the people credited Paul for the miracle, how did he respond? Well, how would you or I respond? We'd probably say, "No, I didn't do anything special" — which is our usual way of dealing with compliments. But not Paul. He knew that true humility means accepting the compliment while giving the credit to God. It's a partnership.
Paul explained that he and Barnabas were bringing good news about the real God. He did not "humbly" cut down his ability to preach, nor did he deny that he was capable of working miracles. He simply took the focus off of himself and put it onto God.
Every good deed that we do is evidence that God is working in us and through us. Humility means realizing that we are inadequate and likely to sin BUT thanks be to God he graces us with his holiness and therefore we can be extraordinary Christians. As it says in today's responsorial Psalm: "Not to us, O Lord, but to Your name give the glory."
Never degrade yourself when complimented. It devalues God's work in you. Acknowledge your partnership with the Holy Spirit by using your life to help others put their focus on Christ.
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
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Friday, May 8, 2009
The many dwelling places of God's kingdom
Good News ReflectionFriday of the Fourth Week of EasterMay 8, 2009
Today's Feast: Apparition of Michael the ArchangelPray for victory! http://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/Michael.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 13:26-33Ps 2:6-11abJohn 14:1-6http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/050809.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_08.mp3
The many dwelling places of God's kingdom
In today's Gospel passage, Jesus talks about preparing a place for us in heaven. But is that the only reason why he says: "Don't let your hearts be troubled"? Is he only speaking of our afterlife? We need to find peace in the midst of the troubling times we have right now!
He said: "In my Father's house are many dwelling places." Think of it this way: Our hearts are dwelling places where Christ lives here on earth, right? The Father's house is the entire kingdom of God — i.e., not just heaven, which we'll experience someday, but his kingdom right now, wherever it exists in this world. In God's kingdom, there are many hearts that hold Christ. And wherever Christ dwells, his love reaches out to us.
"I am going to prepare a place for you," Jesus says. Feeling lonely? Are you worn out and beaten down from dealing with troublesome people? Could you benefit from having more friends who hold Christ in their hearts and who understand your needs and problems, people who could be companions on your journey, who can be the voice of Jesus when you can't hear him in the storm?
Jesus is preparing a place for you in the hearts of others! Have you asked for this? There are people around you who have given their lives to him, who are allowing him to transform their hearts, who know him as the way, the truth, and the life they live. And because he cares so much about you, he will come back again and take you to himself through THEIR gestures of love, so that where he is in them you also will be.
He has hand-selected certain people for you and he wants you to find the place in their hearts that he's already prepared for you. Will you open yourself to them? Will you take the risk and trust God in them? Will you take action and make time to develop these relationships or will you neglect some potentially wonderful opportunities?
Just as Jesus has prepared a place for you in the hearts of others, so too has he been preparing a place for them in your heart.
Closed hearts are troubled hearts. Ironically, we close our hearts to protect it from trouble. We know that, sooner or later, everyone to whom we open ourselves will hurt us. Ahhh, but the fear of being vulnerable and open means we're forgetting that Jesus dwells in our hearts and he can heal our hearts when others sin against us.
Someday, we will go to the home that Jesus is preparing for us in heaven. There, everyone will love us as much as Jesus loves us. But what about today? Are you willing to trust Jesus to carry you through the imperfections of earthly relationships?
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Today's Feast: Apparition of Michael the ArchangelPray for victory! http://wordbytes.org/saints/DailyPrayers/Michael.htm
Today's Readings:Acts 13:26-33Ps 2:6-11abJohn 14:1-6http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/050809.shtmlAudio: http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_08.mp3
The many dwelling places of God's kingdom
In today's Gospel passage, Jesus talks about preparing a place for us in heaven. But is that the only reason why he says: "Don't let your hearts be troubled"? Is he only speaking of our afterlife? We need to find peace in the midst of the troubling times we have right now!
He said: "In my Father's house are many dwelling places." Think of it this way: Our hearts are dwelling places where Christ lives here on earth, right? The Father's house is the entire kingdom of God — i.e., not just heaven, which we'll experience someday, but his kingdom right now, wherever it exists in this world. In God's kingdom, there are many hearts that hold Christ. And wherever Christ dwells, his love reaches out to us.
"I am going to prepare a place for you," Jesus says. Feeling lonely? Are you worn out and beaten down from dealing with troublesome people? Could you benefit from having more friends who hold Christ in their hearts and who understand your needs and problems, people who could be companions on your journey, who can be the voice of Jesus when you can't hear him in the storm?
Jesus is preparing a place for you in the hearts of others! Have you asked for this? There are people around you who have given their lives to him, who are allowing him to transform their hearts, who know him as the way, the truth, and the life they live. And because he cares so much about you, he will come back again and take you to himself through THEIR gestures of love, so that where he is in them you also will be.
He has hand-selected certain people for you and he wants you to find the place in their hearts that he's already prepared for you. Will you open yourself to them? Will you take the risk and trust God in them? Will you take action and make time to develop these relationships or will you neglect some potentially wonderful opportunities?
Just as Jesus has prepared a place for you in the hearts of others, so too has he been preparing a place for them in your heart.
Closed hearts are troubled hearts. Ironically, we close our hearts to protect it from trouble. We know that, sooner or later, everyone to whom we open ourselves will hurt us. Ahhh, but the fear of being vulnerable and open means we're forgetting that Jesus dwells in our hearts and he can heal our hearts when others sin against us.
Someday, we will go to the home that Jesus is preparing for us in heaven. There, everyone will love us as much as Jesus loves us. But what about today? Are you willing to trust Jesus to carry you through the imperfections of earthly relationships?
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Imitating your Master
Good News ReflectionThursday of the Fourth Week of EasterMay 7, 2009
Today's Readings:Acts 13:13-25Ps 89:2-3, 21-22, 25, 27John 13:16-20http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/050709.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_07.mp3
Imitating your Master
Who is frustrating you? Betraying you? Persecuting you? Robbing you of peace? Do you know how to be like Jesus to overcome this? Jesus said in today's Gospel scene (when he was about to get hurt more than you and I will ever experience) that we can never be greater than he is. Yet, we think we've got a better idea of how to handle the troublemakers in our lives.
How did he deal with those who caused problems for him? Not by zapping them out of the picture with a bolt of lightning like we sometimes wish we could do! He loved them and forgave them, even when they didn't ask for it. You saw that in his responses to Judas on Good Friday. This mercy didn't add to his pain; it gave him endurance and then it resurrected him!
Because Jesus lives in us, we can have the same victory when dealing with those who sin against us.
Victory doesn't come from getting rid of trouble-makers and the problems they cause; it comes from embracing them the way Jesus did. He knew the hidden victory that lay in the cross.
Loving our enemies gives us a hidden power that crushes the devil. Forgiving those who hurt us — including those who show no remorse — sets us free from the nails that bind us to the cross. If our happiness depends on waiting for trouble-makers to change, we are permanently nailed to the cross of their unrepentance. If our willingness to love them depends on their willingness to love us, we are permanently nailed to the cross of their sins.
People sin against us because of the wounds in their hearts and the darkness in their souls. The forgiveness that frees us is also the forgiveness that can heal them if we find ways to serve them with the love of Jesus, imitating him in his mercy. He has sent us into their lives to reveal his love to them.
Choosing to forgive and to do good to our enemies is a huge blow to the devil, but there is more victory hidden in the cross than this. By imitating Jesus, we are healed by our union with him. We are resurrected to a higher level of spiritual perfection. Often this process must include help from a good therapist or spiritual director, and this too is a blessing straight from God.
Discover the hidden victory in the crosses you're facing today. Rather than being controlled by the hurt that's been inflicted upon you, and instead of being held on the cross by your anger, worry, fear, frustration, cynicism, or any other bad mood instigated by others, conquer that evil master by choosing to make Jesus your true Master. Follow him: Imitate him. And enjoy your resurrection!
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
Today's Readings:Acts 13:13-25Ps 89:2-3, 21-22, 25, 27John 13:16-20http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/050709.shtmlAudio:http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/09_05_07.mp3
Imitating your Master
Who is frustrating you? Betraying you? Persecuting you? Robbing you of peace? Do you know how to be like Jesus to overcome this? Jesus said in today's Gospel scene (when he was about to get hurt more than you and I will ever experience) that we can never be greater than he is. Yet, we think we've got a better idea of how to handle the troublemakers in our lives.
How did he deal with those who caused problems for him? Not by zapping them out of the picture with a bolt of lightning like we sometimes wish we could do! He loved them and forgave them, even when they didn't ask for it. You saw that in his responses to Judas on Good Friday. This mercy didn't add to his pain; it gave him endurance and then it resurrected him!
Because Jesus lives in us, we can have the same victory when dealing with those who sin against us.
Victory doesn't come from getting rid of trouble-makers and the problems they cause; it comes from embracing them the way Jesus did. He knew the hidden victory that lay in the cross.
Loving our enemies gives us a hidden power that crushes the devil. Forgiving those who hurt us — including those who show no remorse — sets us free from the nails that bind us to the cross. If our happiness depends on waiting for trouble-makers to change, we are permanently nailed to the cross of their unrepentance. If our willingness to love them depends on their willingness to love us, we are permanently nailed to the cross of their sins.
People sin against us because of the wounds in their hearts and the darkness in their souls. The forgiveness that frees us is also the forgiveness that can heal them if we find ways to serve them with the love of Jesus, imitating him in his mercy. He has sent us into their lives to reveal his love to them.
Choosing to forgive and to do good to our enemies is a huge blow to the devil, but there is more victory hidden in the cross than this. By imitating Jesus, we are healed by our union with him. We are resurrected to a higher level of spiritual perfection. Often this process must include help from a good therapist or spiritual director, and this too is a blessing straight from God.
Discover the hidden victory in the crosses you're facing today. Rather than being controlled by the hurt that's been inflicted upon you, and instead of being held on the cross by your anger, worry, fear, frustration, cynicism, or any other bad mood instigated by others, conquer that evil master by choosing to make Jesus your true Master. Follow him: Imitate him. And enjoy your resurrection!
© 2009 by Terry A. ModicaFor PERMISSION to copy any of my reflections, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections/copyrights-DR.htm
Seeking a past reflection?Click this button to register for the searchable Archive Library of the Good News Reflections. One week access is free as a special gift to subscribers of these emailed reflections.
WAS THIS FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND?To sign up for your own subscription, go to:http://gogoodnews.net/DailyReflections
Why do I need you as a partner in my daily ministry?Please help with a donation, including non-financial support. Good News Ministries affects countless lives around the world, including in countries where people have no Catholic Mass and where Christianity is persecuted. continue...
Note: Good News Ministries is a non-profit organization that accepts donations as support for its ministries but does not charge for anything. Catholic Digital Resources™ is my employment through which I provide my writing services; the income from this (although very small at these early stages) will eventually support the future growth and projects of Good News Ministries. Please spread the word; tell your DRE, RCIA Director, pastor, etc. about what's available for parishes at Catholic Digital Resources™.
______________________________________________________________This is the "Good News Reflections - Early Edition" mailing list.MANAGE YOUR SUBSCRIPTION:Change your addressUnsubscribe
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