Posts

5th Sunday in Ordinary time (Year C)

  First Reading: From the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 6:1-2a, 3-8) This reading describes Isaiah’s vision of the Lord in the temple and his calling to be a prophet. Isaiah feels unworthy but is purified by a seraphim with a burning coal, leading him to respond, “Here I am; send me!” Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 138 "In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord." The psalm expresses gratitude and trust in God's faithfulness and help. Second Reading: From the First Letter to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 15:1-11) St. Paul reminds the Corinthians of the gospel he preached to them, emphasizing the resurrection of Jesus and his own unworthiness, yet chosen by God's grace to be an apostle. Gospel: From the Gospel of Luke (Luke 5:1-11) This passage recounts the calling of the first disciples. Jesus instructs Peter to cast his nets into the deep water, leading to a miraculous catch of fish. Peter acknowledges his sinfulness, but Jesus calls him and his companions to...
Post a Comment
Read more

The presentation of the Lord

  First Reading: Malachi 3:1-4 This passage speaks of the Lord sending a messenger to prepare the way before Him, and the coming of the Lord to His Temple. Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 24:7-10 The psalmist calls for the gates to lift up their heads to welcome the King of Glory, who is the Lord. Second Reading: Hebrews 2:14-18 This reading emphasizes that Jesus shared in our humanity to destroy the power of death and to be a merciful and faithful high priest. Gospel: Luke 2:22-40 This passage recounts the presentation of Jesus in the Temple, where Simeon takes Jesus in his arms and praises God, recognizing Him as the salvation prepared for all people. This week I will take the Gospel to my meditation. In Jewish tradition, the "redemption of the firstborn" or "Pidyon HaBen" is an important ritual that involves presenting the firstborn male child to God and then redeeming him with a payment to the priests. This practice, as described in the Torah, originates from the ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Did you know? #1

Did you know that the word "food" appears more times in the Bible than the word "pray"? There's a profound reason behind this. The Bible not only offers spiritual guidance but also provides practical wisdom for living a meaningful life. This emphasis is evident in the way "food" is frequently depicted as an act of kindness and charity, as seen in the story of Elijah and the Widow at Zarephath (1 Kings 17:7-24). In this passage, during a time of severe drought, the prophet Elijah meets a poor widow who has just enough flour and oil to prepare one last meal for herself and her son. Despite her dire circumstances, she responds to Elijah's request for food with trust and generosity. Miraculously, her jar of flour and jug of oil do not run dry, symbolizing God's provision and the power of faith. This story underscores a powerful message: while prayer is essential, our actions, particularly acts of charity and kindness, hold immense significance. It...
Post a Comment
Read more

3rd Sunday in Ordinary time (Year C)

  First Reading: From the Book of Nehemiah (Nehemiah 8:2-4a, 5-6, 8-10) The reading recounts Ezra reading the Law to the people of Israel, who respond with reverence and commitment to follow God's teachings. Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 19 "Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life." The psalm celebrates the perfection and guidance provided by God's law. Second Reading: From the First Letter to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 12:12-30) St. Paul emphasizes the unity and diversity of the Church, comparing it to a body with many parts, each with its unique role and importance. Gospel: From the Gospel of Luke (Luke 1:1-4; 4:14-21) The Gospel begins with Luke’s introduction and then recounts Jesus' return to Galilee. He reads from the scroll of Isaiah in the synagogue, proclaiming the fulfillment of the scripture that announces the coming of the Messiah. Today, I'd like to reflect on the Second Reading, which deeply moved me. St. Paul’s message in the Second Reading fr...
Post a Comment
Location: Bannockburn, Stirling FK7, UK
Read more

About

Did you know that Christmas means the Mass of Christ? Christ + Mass = Christmas. We are all called to be witnesses of Christ. While some do this by spreading the word, others do it through their actions. As a computer professional, I choose to share my faith through this blog. During last Sunday's Mass, the priest encouraged us to read the scriptures, meditate on them, and share our reflections. This blog is my way of fulfilling that suggestion. Here’s why I decided to start it: I've had this idea for a while, and now I've decided to bring it to life. It aligns with Fr. Jamie's suggestion. It motivates me to keep my readings up-to-date. It helps me grow spiritually. Last, but definitely not least, it helps YOU grow as well. I hope this blog helps you achieve your spiritual goals. I also hope it helps you better understand who Jesus WAS, IS, and WILL BE in our lives.
Post a Comment
Read more