Do Not Be Afraid 

   “The wind was strong, and the sea was getting rough.  They had rowed three or four miles when they saw Jesus walking on the lake and coming towards the boat  This frightened them, but He said, ‘It is I.  Do not be afraid.” (John 6: 18 – 20) 

   Jesus often tried to calm the fears and concerns of the apostles.  In the violent seas, in their doubts and questions about Him and His mission.  At the last supper He again reminded them, “Do not let your hearts be troubled.  Trust in God still, and trust in me.” (John 14: 1).

   These words of comfort are so important to us still today.  We see the evil in the world, the wars, pain, and suffering and it is easy to become afraid, worrying about what comes next.  However, we have no control over what comes next, that is God’s purview and for us to think it is ours to decide is arrogant and futile.

   We are faced with two choices.  We can allow the world to overcome our peace and bring turmoil into our lives, or we can follow the words of Jesus, always trusting in God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

 

   “There are many rooms in my Father’s house; if there were not, I should have told you.  I am going now to prepare a place for you, and after I have gone and prepared you a place, I shall return to take you with me; so that where I am you may be too.” (John 14: 2 – 3)

 

 A Changing World 

   “While the world changes, the cross stands firm.” (St. Bruno) 

   As the world appears to be in a death spiral of sin and immortality it’s important to know the power of the cross.  No matter what happens in the world the cross remains, and the salvation that was won upon it will never change.

   In his letter to the Romans, St. Paul writes, “As to his death, he died to sin once and for all; as to his life, he lives for God.” (Romans 6: 10).  What Jesus accomplished on that cross is eternal and it can never be added to or detracted from by the changes of a world steeped in sin.

   The world was no less sinful in Christ’s time than now.  In fact, it was far worse than it is today.  There was a nearly world-wide effort to destroy the Church Jesus established through His sacrifice.  Christians were persecuted, imprisoned, tortured, and martyred for their faith.

   I foresee a time in this nation when Christians will again be outcasts, derided and mocked by the majority.  A  time is coming, and has already begun in some ways, when publicly acknowledging faith in God will be subject to regulations, restrictions and, in all likelihood, fines and imprisonment.

   In some ways I am quite glad that I am old and getting older.  Perhaps I won’t live to see a nation that has always acknowledged the right to worship become one of atheism and persecution of religion.

   It is very likely that there are very difficult times ahead unless there is a renewal of faith and an open fight against those who would squash it under the heel of Satan.  But regardless of what may happen, the cross will remain.  Those who cling to the love, the mercy, and the salvation that Jesus offers will receive the promise of eternal happiness in the presence of our Lord.

 

A Merciful Judge 

   “Don’t judge someone until you have walked a mile in their shoes.” 

   This quote has been around for many years and has been used by many people although it seems no one is certain where it originated.  However, the advice is of great value; we can never begin to know what another has been through that has brought them to where they are today.

   Jesus became man, He was like us in all things but sin.  Because of this He knew the weakness of humanity; He knew the temptations we experience every day.  He experienced temptation as Satan foolishly tried to draw even the Son of God into sin.

   Our Lord knew the hardships we face in life.  He saw the effects of sin, the illnesses that many suffer from and the difficulties that life can bring.  He knew the loss of friends through death and the pain and sorrow of those who loved them.  He likely experienced the death of His earthly father, Joseph.  He knew the trials we know.

   Jesus experienced physical pain through His scourging, the crowning of thorns and the horrible death He suffered on the cross.  He saw the pain of others in their blindness, deafness, and infirmities.  He saw the devastation of diseases such as leprosy.  In all things except sin, He experienced human life.

   I used to wonder why He would submit Himself to all these things, but I believe I have come to understand.  When He looks at me at my death and passes judgement upon me He knows the struggles I’ve had, He knows the pain and suffering I have endured.  He knows how weak I am even though I want to be strong.  He knows that I can no more be sinless than I can fly.  Because of all this, my judge is a merciful Judge.  My Lord, Jesus Christ, knows me and knows that my greatest desire is to serve Him, though I often fail.

   It is because of  His unquestionable understanding of humanity that I place my hope for His mercy when I stand before Him.

 

 

  

 The Lord Hears 

   There is a line in an old movie that I’ve always remembered, even though don't remember of the name of the movie.  In it the King of England was talking with one of his friends or counselors and mentioned God’s answer to his prayer.  The friend asked then asked him if God always answered his prayers, to which the king replied,  “I am the King of England, when I pray, God answers.”

   Fortunately, we don’t have to be the King of England for God to hear our prayers and answer.  There is never a prayer that God does not hear and never a prayer that He does not answer.  We may not get the answer we want or expect, but we will get a response.

   Naturally, we pray from our worldly perspective of life.  Things that may seem incredibly important to us may be of little worth for our spiritual life and yet we pray as if we must receive the answer we asked for.  God hears our prayer, but He knows what we really need, so His answer will be what He knows is best for us rather than what we might have asked.

   His answer may be “yes”, and we will be pleased. like the king in the movie.  However, we may not be ready for what we asked so the answer may be “perhaps later, but not right now”.  Then again, we may have asked for something that is totally wrong for us and the answer could be an emphatic “No!  Not now, now ever”.

   I believe there is also another cause for a prayer not being answered as we think it should.  Jesus told His apostles, “And if you have faith, everything you ask for you will receive.” (Matt 21: 22).  If we do not have faith in God and trust that He will answer our prayers how can we expect that He will respond as we wish?

 

   “The eyes of the Lord are directed toward the righteous and his ears hear their cries.” (Psalm 34: 16)

 The Blessed Sacrament 

   “Out of the darkness of my life, so much frustrated, I put before you the one great thing to love on earth:  The Blessed Sacrament.  There you will find romance, glory, honor, fidelity, and the true way of all your loves on earth.” (J.R.R. Tolkien) 

   I am not Catholic because of the Pope or the bishops or the priests.  I am Catholic because of the Holy Eucharist.  Nowhere else is the body and blood of my Lord offered to me in what appears as simple bread and wine.  I love the Church and trust in her teachings but the pinnacle, for me, is the Blessed Sacrament.

   Years ago, I applied to be ordained as a permanent Deacon in the Catholic Church; I was not chosen.  While discussing this with a very faithful protestant friend he suggested that if being a Deacon was important to me perhaps I should look for a church which wasn’t so strict in their selection.  I responded that there is no other church that can properly feed me; I need the Blessed Sacrament to nourish my soul.  His expression clearly showed that he didn’t understand that reasoning.

   Like all miracles, the Blessed Sacrament cannot be explained in the words of the world.  It is unreasonable, it seems impossible, but it is true; Jesus is truly present in the bread and the wine.  For me there is no explanation needed and for those who do not believe there is no explanation I can give.  Instead, I rely on and trust the words our Lord spoke at the last supper.

   “Then he took bread, and when he had given thanks, broke it and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body which will be given for you; do this in memorial of me.’  He did the same with the cup after supper, and said, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood which will be poured out for you.’”. (Luke 22: 19 – 20).  With these words He instituted the sacrament of the Eucharist, the Blessed Sacrament.

 

   “For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink.  He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood lives in me and I live in him.” (John 6: 55 – 56)

 God Within Us 

   “You were within me but I was outside myself, and there I sought You!  I ran after the beauty of the things you have made.  You were with me, but I was not with you. (St. Augustine, “Confessions”) 

   People sometimes spend a lifetime searching for God.  Unfortunately, many of them are searching in the wrong places.  Like St. Augustine they are searching outside of themselves when He has been there within them all the time.

   We read books, we watch movies, we go on retreats and pilgrimages in our efforts to find God.  While all of these things are of value in our spiritual life, they will be of so much more benefit if we realize that God is and always has been within us.

   I see God in so many things; nature, the love of friends and family.  I hear Him in the voice of the priest as he preaches from the scripture.  He is there in the laughter of a small child and the obvious love of a parent for their children.  He is there in the hearts of those in a committed sacramental marriage.  However, He is first of all there within me.

   Some of my best times are those I spend alone with God in the silence of my home.  I love going to Mass and spending time in the adoration chapel, but somehow I am closest to Him in the silence.  Simply to be aware that He is within me, sinner though I am, amazes me.  I read books, watch movies and hope to go on a pilgrimage to the holy land.  But I don’t need to do those things to find God; He is already here.

 

   “You have made us for yourself , O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” (St. Augustine, “Confessions”)

 Doubting Thomas 

   “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hands into his side, I will not believe.” (John 20: 25) 

   These words of St. Thomas earned him the eternal reputation as the doubter.  I can somewhat understand the confusion that Thomas, and the rest of the apostles, must have been feeling.  The one they had followed for three years, the one who they had believed was the Messiah, had been brutally beaten and then died a horrible death on the cross.  How could this have happened to the Son of God?  I’m sure there was some questions and doubts in all of their minds; Thomas was just more open in sharing his.

   But haven’t we at times doubted?  I know I have.  When things happen that we can’t understand, or some tragedy occurs it’s not unusual to question why God would let such a thing happen.

   We can’t understand, nor are we meant to understand, all there is in God’s plan.  His plans are not subject to our approval.  We see things through the stained and dirty window of a corrupt and fallen world; God sees them as they were, are, and always will be in the perfection of His creation.

   However, God doesn’t abandon us when we doubt or question, just as Jesus didn’t abandon Thomas.  It we live in faith, we will come to understand that all will be as He has planned, though we will not always know why.  It is this faith that Jesus was speaking of when He said, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.” (John 20: 29).

 The In Between 

   “Just as it is appointed that human beings die once, and after this the judgement.”  (Hebrews 9: 27) 

   Walk around a cemetery and you will see that virtually every tombstone will have two dates listed; the date the person was born, and the date they died.  Those dates may have meaning to those who loved and cared for the deceased, but are of little relevance to the world at large.

   What truly matters is the in between time.  Were the years and days of a person’s life used wisely or foolishly; for the betterment of themselves and others, or for the satisfaction of a self-serving egotist?

    Most people search throughout their lives for one thing; happiness.  How they hope to achieve that goal will guide how they live their life.  Some believe happiness can be found in wealth.  They will live their lives trying to get rich and will find that no matter how much they have they still don’t have the happiness they seek.  So, they will continue to go after more and more money, thinking that eventually they will have enough to be happy.

   Others believe happiness can be found in physical pleasures.  The old adage “if it feels good, do it” is their motto.  Whether it be gourmet foods or fancy wines, they will continue to try more and different varieties in their search.  Yet, happiness isn’t found in food or wine.

   Some seek their happiness in sex.  When they don’t find happiness with one partner, they will seek others, often leaving children and broken hearts in their wake.  Others will take any challenge that brings a rush of adrenaline.  Sky-diving, bungee jumping, or any other risky activity that will give them the thrill they think is the key to happiness.

   While we all seek happiness, few come to realize that true happiness is not found in a fallen, corrupt world.  Oh, there may be moments of joy and happiness, but lasting joy comes only from God.  This is the happiness that all are looking for even if they don’t realize it.

   The in between is what will determine our destiny at the judgement.  If we have spent it chasing false happiness we will have lost.  If we found the happiness that comes from God, we will have won the prize.

 The Gift of Contemplation 

   Many think contemplation is just a different form of meditation, but it is so much more.  I can consciously meditate upon the word of God and often do, but contemplation is not something I can achieve on my own.  Contemplation, like holiness can only be granted as a gift from God.

   Contemplation is not something I do; it is a holy place that I can’t enter unless God invites me.  No words are spoken, no prayers are offered, simply an open heart waiting for my God.  Do I reach the level of contemplation?  I believe I do at times.  However, as soon as I begin to think about it, I am back in the world rather than with my Lord.  Contemplation is not something I can cling to; it not of my will, but of His.

   Over the years I’ve read many books about the contemplative life and there’s one thing I have discovered; the experience is rarely the same for everyone.  The contemplative life is very much personal, and I believe God grants it in various ways as appropriate for each of us.

   Perhaps I will grow in the contemplative life; I pray that I will.  But it is a gift from God, and like all His many gifts, I am unworthy to receive it.  My hope is that He will grant me this grace so that I may grow closer to Him in all things.

 An Offering to God 

   “Here is a rule for everyday life:  Do not do anything which you cannot offer to God.” (St. John Vianney) 

   When I read this quote I couldn’t help but think how much better the world would be if everyone lived in this manner.  Wars and crime would cease to exist; racism, bias, and hatred would disappear.  Abortion, euthanasia, and even the death penalty would be gone.  The sinfulness that inundates our society would cease and peace would at last reign.

   Then I realized what an impossibility all of that is.  In a world stained by original sin such as ours, living life as an offering to God is never going to become the norm for most people.  Satan is strong and we are weak.  Far too often we fail prey, either willingly or unknowingly to his ways.

   Still, if each of us were to incorporate this thought into our daily lives we would find that there are many areas of our life that could benefit from keeping St. Vianney’s words in mind.  It could have a very positive impact on those we know and those we meet; perhaps even on society itself.  Most importantly it would bring us closer to God.

   Before ranting at the “idiot” who just cut you off in traffic, think if you are willing to offer what you are about to say to God?  Was that movie you watched last night, the one with the vile language and overt sexuality, one you would have watched with Jesus sitting at your side?  Our lives, and our relationship with God, could benefit greatly from considering what we are about to say or do before we say or do it.

   This rule from St. Vianney is a means of taking control of our actions rather than allowing our actions to control us.  And even though we will most probably fail to follow it at times, it is well worth the effort to try.

 Past Sins 

   “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our sins from us.  (Psalm 103: 12) 

   There are times when the memory of my past sins come to mind as if they were committed yesterday.  This troubles me in some ways and is a blessing in others.

   It troubles me because I fear it is Satan trying to convince me that those sins were not properly confessed, and therefore, not forgiven.  This is just another lie from the father of all lies, but still, it bothers me.  If I begin to consider this possibility I have taken a turn from the path I am to walk; the path of God and trust in His merciful love and forgiveness.

   On the other hand, the remembrance of past sins can also be a blessing.  When I consider the sins I’ve committed in the past I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the love and mercy of a forgiving God.

   I am humbled by the memory of past sins.  They remind me that I can do nothing good except with the help of God.  Though I am unworthy of His mercy and forgiveness, He forgives.  Though I am unable to properly atone for my sins, Jesus came to atone for me.

   I sometimes wish I could simply forget my past sins, but I also realize that the memory urges me to strive even harder to never repeat them.  The love and mercy shown by God in His forgiveness of my sins urges me to more readily seek Him in sorrow and repentance for my sins.  Even disturbing memories such as my past sins are a means of increasing my reliance on God.

   When the memories of past sins occur, I must recognize that Satan is a liar and rest in peace in the mercy and love of God, confident that my sins are forgiven.

 Be An Evangelist 

   “Preach the Gospel at all times.  Use words when necessary.” (St. Francis of Assisi) 

   The above quote speaks eloquently to the life of St. Francis.  After his conversion he lived his life in poverty, seeking only to preach the gospel by his own life.  He advised his followers to do the same.  We don’t have to be Franciscans to believe that this is the way we can best preach the gospel as well.

   In a sermon St. Augustine once offered the prayer, “Help me Lord, to be the sort of person someone else should imitate.”  He wasn’t asking for recognition or fame, but only that he could live his life for God, hoping others might follow his example.

   As Christians we are all called to be evangelists.  Like the apostles, we are to preach the gospel to the world, or at least our small corner of it.  However, most of us do not have the have the knowledge or the talent to formally evangelize others.  We would, in all likelihood, fall easy prey to an atheist knowledgeable in the ways to twist the gospel to their own evil uses.

   Still, by following the advice of St. Francis and St. Augustine, we can be evangelists.  By living our life for God, loving Him and our neighbors, we too can preach the gospel.  When we pray, asking for His help to serve Him, He will answer our prayer.  In this way, we can help others come to know God and be the evangelists we are all called to be.

 Loving God 

   “Say to yourself over and over again regardless of what happens:  God loves me!  And then add:  And I will try to love Him.”  (Fulton Sheen) 

   When things are going well, it’s easy to say and believe that God loves me.  However, it’s not quite as easy when things have gone terribly wrong.  To continue to say and believe God loves me in the difficult times takes faith and even determination.

   Sometimes we tend to look at things selfishly.  We are willing to thank God for the good, but we want to blame Him when things are not so good.  We must remember that nothing that comes from God is evil.  Any evil we may endure comes from Satan or is a result of our own sinfulness.  I believe that God sometimes allows us to suffer for our sins to remind us that we need to repent and try to do better.

   I like the way Bishop Sheen added, “And I will try to love Him.”  It can be hard to love God when we are blaming Him for a tragedy in our life, or some other cross we may be called to bear.  Even though we find it difficult, those are the times when we must rely even more on the love God has for us and try even harder to love Him in return.

   Jesus suffered greatly for us, and He told us, “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9: 23).  There is no path to heaven except by the way of the cross.

   So, I will remember that God loves me always.  I will thank Him for the good things of life and accept the bad that must come.  I will love Him in the good times and try to love Him even more when times are hard.

 

 

Easter Sunday 

   “Why do you seek the living among the dead?  He is not here, but he has been raised.” (Luke 24: 5 – 6) 

   He died to atone for our sins.  In rising He overcame death.  He lives among us.  In fact, He lives within us.  Whether we know it or not, whether we want to admit it or not, He is alive in each of us.

   If we believe this and if we pick up our cross daily and follow Him, He will lead us to eternal life.  Amen!

 

 

Happy Easter!

 Anticipation 

   He is dead; He is in the tomb and the tomb is sealed and guarded.  The world waits in anticipation.

   Do the Jewish religious leaders think they have stopped Him?  Are they questioning their decision?  Does the veil before the holy of holies hang in tatters as a sign that the door to the true holy of holies, heaven itself, has now been opened?

   What of Pilate?  His wife had warned Him of a dream about Jesus.  She had told him that Jesus was a holy man and begged Pilate not to become involved with Him.  Still, he responded to the possibility of riot in Jerusalem rather than to Jesus.  He washed his hands of the whole affair, but the blood of Christ will remain.

   The apostles are in hiding.  Do they still believe that Jesus is the Messiah or are they too questioning?  Thomas, the doubter, will refuse to believe until he touches the nail holes in His hands and puts his hand into the side of Jesus.

   If we could hear the dead, I believe we would hear rejoicing.  Rejoicing that the Savior has come to them, offering them the opportunity to join Him in paradise just as He had the good thief on the cross.

   Most importantly of all, what about us?  Are we sorrowing for His death even though we are anticipating His resurrection?  Do we fully realize all He has done for us?  Between now and His resurrection tomorrow, let us take the time to reflect on His life, passion, and death.  Let us prepare our hearts and our souls to welcome Him into our lives.  And then, on that morning of His rising from death to life, let us celebrate the salvation He offers to each of us. 

 Good Friday 

   Years ago I didn’t understand why Good Friday was called “Good”.  After all, this is the memorial of the day when Jesus was scourged at the pillar, and then had a crown of thorns forced upon His head.  At the demand of the Jewish leaders, He was sentenced to death and forced to carry His cross through the streets of Jerusalem to Calvary.

   At Calvary He was stripped of His clothes, nailed to the cross and raised up to die a painful, agonizing death.  It wasn’t enough that the religious leaders demanded His crucifixion, they stood at the cross jeering and cajoling Him.  Even at this point they still demanded a sign to prove to them that He was the Messiah.

   I can’t help but wonder at the horror and fear that must have gripped those who had Him condemned when the earth went dark for three hours.  What went through their minds when the earth shook, and the temple veil was torn from top to bottom at the moment Jesus died.  Did they then realize the mistake they had made?   Judging from history and the persecutions the church has endured, it would seem they still didn’t grasp, or simply refused to admit that He was, and is, the Messiah.

   I have come to realize that Good Friday is, in fact good.  Not because of the evil that was done, but because of the tremendous good that resulted.  What happened to Jesus was part of the plan to offer salvation to those who would believe.  He suffered, died, and was buried for our sins, and those of the whole world from the beginning of time until His coming again in glory.

   Good Friday is good because without the passion, cross, and death, there could be no resurrection on Easter morning.  Jesus made proper atonement for sin and overcame death.  He offers the same to us; He will forgive our sins and offer us eternal life in heaven.

   So, yes, Good Friday is a good day.  Jesus Himself would agree.  He said, “There is a baptism with which I must be baptized, and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished!” (Luke 12: 50).

   As we gather today to relieve the passion and death of our Lord, let us sorrow for His pain and death.  But let us also remember that from His passion and death came the resurrection.

 Holy Thursday 

   “He took a towel and tied it around his waist.  Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciple’s feet and dry them with the towel around his waist.” (John 13: 5) 

   Tonight, at the Holy Thursday Mass, the priest will wash the feet of twelve people chosen to represent the apostles at the last supper.  This will take place at Catholic Churches all over the world as it does every year.

   I’m always a little surprised by the fact that Jesus washed the feet of all twelve, including Judas Iscariot, who would betray Him.  Surely our Lord knew what Judas was about to do, so why would He include Him in this expression of servitude?  Maybe He was hoping that Judas would come to recognize the terrible thing He was about to do; perhaps He was encouraging Judas by showing Him the love He had even for His betrayer, hoping that he would return seeking forgiveness for his actions.

   I have always considered that even worse that Judas’ betrayal of the Son of Man, was his refusal to repent and seek the forgiveness of our Lord.  Jesus would have forgiven Him, even for this act, for as He had said, “I tell you, in just the same way there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance.” (Luke 15: 7).  Instead of repenting, Judas choose to kill himself.

   Will those whose feet will be washed this evening be thinking that one of them represents the betrayer?  Possibly, but I doubt it.  Perhaps it would be good to consider Judas and his choice.  Our decision must be to go to Jesus in repentance for our sins, no matter how heinous they may be.  Just as He would have forgiven His betrayer, He will forgive us.

 Ask, Seek, Knock 

   “Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” (Matt 7: 7) 

   Upon these words of Jesus rests our faith and hope for eternal life.  There is, however, a caution; we must ask with sincerity, seek with an open mind, and an open heart.  We must knock with perseverance, confident in His words, “For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.  A half-hearted attempt is of no value, it must be sincere.  It must be full of faith in the promises of Christ.

   I believe Jesus also comes to us, asking, seeking, and knocking, that we might welcome Him into our life.  Our salvation is from Him, but we must cooperate with His efforts to sanctify us.  He will not force His will upon us.

   Jesus asks that we give up our worldly desires and follow His will, that we pick up our cross each day and follow Him.  He asks that we love God with all our heart, mind, and soul, and that we love our neighbor as ourselves.  He asks in all sincerity, hoping for our answer of “yes Lord.”

   He seeks our soul.  He searches our heart to see if there is faith or if there is evil.  He wants to heal us, to bring us closer to Him and His will in our life.  If we open ourselves to Him, He will enter and live within us.

   Our Savior knocks on the door of our life.  He is sometimes the hungry looking for a meal, sometimes the naked in need of clothing.  He told us that whatever we do for the least of our brothers and sisters we do for Him.  If we open the door to Him in our love and charity, He will open the door to eternal life for us to enter.

   We must ask, seek, and knock with all sincerity.  When Jesus asks, seeks, and knocks on our door we, like the Blessed Mother, must answer, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord, let it be done to me according to your word.” (Luke 1: 38).

 Denying Christ 

   Peter denied Christ.  Three times he said, and even swore, that he didn’t know Christ.  Three times he rejected the one of whom he had said, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” (Matt 16: 16).

   When many of His disciples left Him because of His teachings on the Eucharist (John 6: 22 – 71), Jesus asked the apostles if they too would leave Him.  Peter, speaking for the twelve replied, “Master, to whom shall we go?  You have the words of eternal life.”  Still, when he feared for his own life, Peter denied knowing Jesus.

   I can’t be too hard on Peter, however.  There have been times in my life when I too have denied Jesus.  There isn’t a Christian who has not at one time or another, rejected Christ in their life.  We ignore a teaching we may not like as if we can change the truth.  Something of the world beckons and we follow though we know it is not His will.  We may never actually say or swear that we don’t know Jesus, but our actions often show that we don’t truly know Him as we should.

   As much as I wish it were possible, I know that I cannot live even a day without sinning in some way.  If my sins were remembered there would be no hope for my entry into heaven.  Thankfully, they are stricken from the record once confessed and forgiven.  “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our sins from us.” (Psalm 103: 12).

   I will continue to try to avoid sin by which I deny Christ and His will.  I will continue to sorrow when I fail, seeking His mercy and forgiveness.  In His love and unending mercy, He will forgive.  My hope for eternal life rest in these truths.

 Why Does He Love Me? 

   When I look in the mirror what do I see?  Do I see someone who is worthy of the love of God, or do I see a sinner who deserves none of the many blessings I have received?  The answer is obvious, I am an underserving sinner, but God loves me anyway.  I’ve often tried to understand why.

   Why would the Son of God give up His glory for a while to become a man like me in all ways except sin?  Why would he submit Himself to the ridicule and rejection of those He came to save?   Most of all why would He willingly accept the brutality He underwent, the scourging, the crown of thorns, and the cross?

   There have been times when I have turned from Him, doing exactly the opposite of what I should have been doing, seeking my own selfish desires.  I have refused to follow His ways and walk the path He has placed before me.  And still, He hasn’t given upon on me; He has not abandoned me to my sins.

   It would be much more appropriate for Him to say “Enough!” and let me go my own way, no longer caring.  Instead, He forgives me and tells me that I am His.  And even though I still sin, He still forgives, He still offers His mercy.  I do not deserve it, I cannot earn it.  I can only accept it as a gift from the God who loves me and try my best to live my life for Him.

   The answer to why God loves me, and you, is quite simple; God is love.  There is no other reason, there is no need for any other reason.  He will continue to love, He will continue to forgive those who repent of their sins.  He will continue to reach out to His children, seeking to bring them home.

 

   “I take pleasure, not in the death of a wicked man, but in the turning back of a wicked man who changes his ways to win life.” (Ezekiel 33: 11)

 Good Will Prevail 

   Today’s gospel reading at Mass was Luke’s account of the Passion and death of our Lord (Luke 22: 14 – 23: 56).  A very long reading full of evil acts against our Lord and Savior.

   In this reading we find the betrayal of Judas, the arrest of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, and His appearance before the religious leaders of Israel.

   We read of Peter denying that he even knew Jesus three times before the rooster crowed, as foretold by Jesus.  He then went out and wept in sorrow.

   He was falsely convicted of blasphemy and brought before Pilate.  Pilate tried to pass of the problem by sending Jesus to Herod, who only mocked and ridiculed Jesus and sent Him back to Pilate.  Finally, after having Him scourged, Pilate gave in to the will of those demanding Jesus be crucified and sent Him to His death.

   He was striped, nailed to the cross and left hanging while the Jewish religious readers, the Roman soldiers and even one of those nailed to a cross beside Him derided and taunted Him.

   After three hours of agony Jesus gave up His spirit and died.  He was taken down and placed in the sepulcher provided by Joseph of Arimathea.  The Jewish leaders believed they had resolved the problem of a Messiah who didn’t meet their misguided expectations.

   So much evil, so much hatred.  And yet, out of all that evil came the greatest good there has ever or will ever be; the resurrection and ascension of our Lord, offering eternal life and happiness to those who believe.

   When life seems hard and I begin to feel a bit down, I reflect on the evil that was done to my Savior and remember the incredible good that resulted.  No matter how difficult or painful life may become, God can bring good from it, though I may not see it in this lifetime.  In this is the peace, comfort, and promise of the Christian faith.

 Holy Week 

   Tomorrow is Palm Sunday.  On that day Jesus was welcomed into Jerusalem amid shouts of joy and hosannas.  Palms were placed on the road before Him.  Palms will be distributed to keep as a reminder throughout the year.  Next year, they will be returned, burned, and the ashes again distributed on Ash Wednesday.  Then comes Holy Week, a time to reflect and relive the last week of Jesus on earth.

   On Holy Thursday we will gather to recall the Passover celebration.  The last supper narrative will be read and in part re-enacted.  Twelve will be chosen to represent the apostles and the priest will wash their feet just as Jesus washed the feet of the twelve at the last supper.  Afterwards, Jesus and the apostles would go to Gethsemane where Judas would betray Him with a kiss.

   He would then be “tried” by the Sanhedrin and take to Pilate.  He would be sent to Herod where he was mocked, ridiculed, and sent back to Pilate.  Some of those who had welcomed Him into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday would join the high priest and religious leaders in demanding His crucifixion.

   On Good Friday, we will relive the passion and death of our Lord.  We will walk with Him as He carried His cross through Jerusalem to Calvary.  We will remember His meeting with the Blessed Mother along the way, and the veil presented by Veronica to wipe His beaten and bloodied face.  The veil will forever carry the image of His face upon it.  We will remember and admit that it was our sins and the sins of all mankind that drove the nails through His hands and feet.  We will be reminded that even a thief on a cross can receive the mercy of our Lord.

   Even as He was dying He asked for mercy for those who had nailed Him to the cross, “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.” (Luke 23: 24).  His side was opened by the soldier’s lance, and blood and water flowed out, establishing His church forever.

   It will be a week filled with spiritual joys and sorrows.  A time to reflect on all Jesus has done for us, and to mourn His death on the cross.  Then, next Sunday, we will celebrate the greatest gift of all, the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

 In Exile 

   “If you wish to remain steadfast in grace and to grow in virtue, consider yourself an exile and a pilgrim in this world.” (Thomas à Kempis, “The Imitation of Christ”) 

   There is a reason that happiness is so difficult to find in the world.  The world is not our home and true happiness can only be found when we are at home.

   When the Israelites were in exile they mourned, saying, “For there our captors asked us for the words of a song; our tormentors for joy; ‘Sing for us a song of Zion!’  But how could we sing a song of the Lord in a foreign land?” (Ps137: 3 – 4).  Today we aren’t asked to sing a song of the Lord, we are rather told to sit down and shut up.  Truly, we are in exile in a foreign land.

   It saddens me that evil seems to be gaining more and more ground in societies all over the world.  Even so called religious leaders are proposing to change the truths of God to better fit in with the prevailing culture.  They refuse to acknowledge that truth still is truth even though it may be unpopular.  I also recognize that the world is largely in the camp of the evil one and God’s truths have always been despised by Satan.  It will remain so until our Savior comes again in glory.

   Hope, however, brings peace and calm to a tumultuous world.  As long as I maintain my faith in the promises of Christ this world cannot overcome me.  For He said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me.”  (John 14: 6)  Amen, Lord!  Help me follow Your way and live by Your truth in this world so that I may live eternally with You in the next.

 The Light of the World 

   “I am the light of the world.  Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8: 12) 

   There is so much darkness in the world.  Satan and the evil he brings permeates every part of our life.  I’ve often said that the 7/24 news cycle is a curse upon mankind.  “If it bleeds, it leads” has become the mantra of the news industry.  But not blood only, sex, war, unrest of any kind takes priority in what is piped into our homes 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Darkness should be their motto, since darkness is all they bring.

   We used to be able to watch a movie without being assaulted by extreme violence, sexual promiscuity of all kinds, and the determination to redefine history, as well as right and wrong, based on the perverted viewpoint of society at large.  It has become harder and harder to find a movie that depicts anything other than the darkness overwhelming our culture.

   The same applies to television and even the music we hear.  The grasp of Satan on society has increased a hundred-fold in the last several years.  There seems to be nowhere that is safe other than church, and even there some have begun to accept and promote the devil’s ways.  Darkness on top of darkness.

   But into the darkness comes the light of Christ.  It’s amazing how little light it takes to break through the darkness.  Try it for yourself; completely darken a room and them light just a tiny candle.  The light from that tiny source will light the room.  Imagine the light of Christ as He lights up the world with His love and mercy.  Darkness can never overcome His light.

   St. John tells us, “And this is the verdict, that the light came into the world, but the people preferred darkness to light, because their works were evil.” (John 3: 19).  Satan can tempt and cajole, but he cannot force me to sin; that choice is mine alone.  By always seeking the light, I can overcome the darkness.

 

Light my life with Your light Lord.  Help me banish the darkness and follow wherever you lead.  Amen

 Let It Be 

   “When I find myself in times of trouble Mother Mary comes to me.  Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.  And in my hour of darkness, she is standing right in front of me.  Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.  (“Let It Be”, lyrics by John Lennon and Paul McCartney) 

   The world can be a scary and often dangerous place.  For Christians it has many times been a place of persecution and martyrdom.  The current times appear to be heading toward more times of persecution as the whole world seems to be turning from God.  Satan seems to be strengthening his grip on the world, bringing more and more evil.

   As I read about the saints throughout the ages, one thing remains constant.  Our Blessed Mother was a big part of their lives and their faith.  They looked to her for guidance and direction, seeking her prayers to the Father on their behalf, just as we seek the prayers of our friends.  Mother Mary, as always, stands ready to help us in times of trouble, to intercede and pray for us.

   Pope St. John Paul II, attributed his survival of the assassin’s bullet to Mother Mary, crediting her with guiding the path of the bullet to allow him to recover.  In her many verified apparitions through the years she has guided those to whom she appeared to turn to Jesus, to pray and meditate on the mysteries of the Rosary, which will always lead us to Christ.  She seeks no glory for herself, only to lead us to her blessed Son.

   Mary tells us to trust in Jesus, to not allow the world to dominate our lives.  When we turn to Him and trust in His promises, when we “let it be”, our hearts will be filled with a peace that the world cannot overcome.

 

Lord, I turn to You and trust in you in all things.  I listen to Your Blessed Mother when she tells me to let it be and turn to you.  Amen

 The Handmaid of the Lord 

   “Mary, who was empty of all egotism, free from all sin, was as pure as the glass of a very clean window that has no other function than to admit the light of the sun.” (Thomas Merton, “New Seeds of Contemplation”) 

   When Gabriel appeared to Mary to tell her of the great gift God had in mind for her, she did not hesitate, she agreed.  The only question in her mind was the purely logical one of how she could become pregnant since she was a virgin.  She never questioned God’s will for her, she simply didn’t understand how it could come to be.

   Her whole life was one of humility and obedience to the will of God.  Only once, at the wedding in Cana, do we find Mary asking Jesus for anything, and the request was not for her but for the wedding couple who had run out of wine.  The changing of the water into wine was the first of Christ’s miracles, setting in motion the mission He would carry all the way to Calvary.

   I love Thomas Merton’s vision of Mary as a perfectly clear window allowing the light of the Son to shine through without adding to or detracting from His will in any way.  That is the response I must have to the Lord’s will in my life.  Never to question, never to doubt, simply to allow Him to shine through me.  I must listen to what Mary told the servers at the wedding in Cana, “Do whatever he tells you.” (John 2: 5).  That is the life Mary lived, that is the life I am to live.

   Like my Blessed Mother, I am to be a servant of the Lord.  I am to die to self and live for Him.

 

Lord, in our Blessed Mother, you gave me the example of how to live my life.  Give me the grace to live as she did, totally committed to Your will.  Amen

Loving Discipline 

   “As I live – it is the Lord Yahweh who speaks – I take pleasure, not in the death of a wicked man, but in the turning back of a wicked man who changes his ways to win life.  Come back, come back from your evil ways.”  (Ezekiel 33: 11) 

   Children often think that their parents are unreasonable in their demands, and even cruel in their chastisements.  Usually, however, they later come to realize that their parents were acting in their best interest, hoping to prepare them for the battles they will face in an evil world.  It is out of love that parents properly correct their children.  To do less borders on child abuse and neglect.

   Christians are often childish in the same way.  We expect our lives to be filled with joy and happiness because we are children of God.  But, just as a loving parent corrects the wayward actions of their children, so will God chastise us for our sinfulness.  At times, He may allow us to suffer the consequences of our sins in order to teach us of their evil.  It is not an act of vengeance but one of love.  By recognizing the damage our sins inflict, we may turn back to Him and seek the forgiveness He so lovingly wants to give.

   By the discipline of loving parents, children learn right from wrong.  We must also learn from our mistakes and sinfulness through the chastisement of our loving Father.  It is out of love and mercy that God disciplines; not as punishment, but in an effort to turn us back to Him.  If we listen and learn from Him, He will lead us to eternal life.

 

“The disciple of the Lord, my son, do not spurn; do not disdain his reproof; for whom the Lord loves he reproves, as a father, the son he favors.” (Proverbs 3: 11 – 12). 

 Nourishing the Soul 

   “Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather, fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matt 10: 28) 

   As I sat in the adoration chapel this morning a thought came to mind.  I try my best to care for my body, but do I put as much effort into caring for my soul?  It’s a question that must be answered if I am to reach the heavenly kingdom.

   What it made me consider was this:  If I placed the effort I put into maintaining my mortal body on one side of a scale and the effort I expend maintaining my immortal soul on the other, which way would the scale settle?  If I’m doing it correctly, concern for my soul should outweigh the concern for my physical well-being.

   I take vitamins and a few other supplements to ensure I’m getting the right amount of nutrients.  I try to eat a sensible diet, avoiding those foods that are most harmful.  Exercise is a regular part of my daily routine and I ensure that I am getting a proper amount of rest.  When needed, I take appropriate medication as prescribed.  In short I put quite a bit of effort into caring for this body which is only a temporary home.

   Then I considered how much effort I put into caring for the part of me that is eternal, my soul.  Without going into details, I do try to nourish my soul as well as my body.  I spend time in prayer, quietly communing with my Lord.  I regularly receive the best nutrition available for my soul, the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of my Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.  By reconciliation and repentance for my sins, I take the appropriate "medicine’ for my soul.

   Deep thoughts for so early in the morning, but some that must be considered.  Taking care of myself physically is a good thing, but properly nurturing my soul will lead me to eternal life in God’s kingdom.

 

Father, help me care for my soul.  Lead me on the path to righteousness and eternal life.  Amen.

 Repent!  He Will Forgive 

   “Though your sins be numerous as the grains of sand on the shore, God’s merciful forgiveness is far greater than your sins.  Do not be afraid.  Trust in his love.  Repent of your sins without delay and return to the house of the Father.  He is waiting for you.” (Patrick Madrid, “A Year with the Bible”) 

   It's so easy to begin to think that I am not worthy of God’s forgiveness.  The reality is that I can never be worthy of His mercy and forgiveness, but He wants to forgive me anyway.

   The world offers so many things that appear to be pleasurable and desirable.  Satan is the great liar, and his lies are in every part of my life.  Wherever I go the devil is there with temptations and lures to draw me from God and into the world.  His only purpose is to turn anyone of faith away from that faith.

   His lies are seemingly plausible by the truth that I am a sinful man.  No matter how I try I can never completely avoid sin.  Satan would have me believe that my sins are too many and too great for God to forgive.  He tries to tempt me by asking if I’m sure that the sins I’ve confessed are truly forgiven or am I deluding myself.

   God tells me otherwise.  He tells me, “I have swept away your transgressions like a cloud, and your sins like a mist; return to me, for I have redeemed you.” (Isaiah 44: 22).  I will choose to ignore the lies of Satan and rely on the promises of my God, who loves me.

 

I am a sinful man Lord.  I turn to You in repentance for my sins.  I seek Your love and merciful forgiveness.  I trust in You.  Amen.

Modernists in the Church 

   It seems more and more people are convinced that over two thousand years of the teachings of the Catholic Church are all of a sudden outdated and in need of re-writing and reform.  From the laity to priests, bishops, cardinals, and even the Pope it seems they care more for “fitting in” with current cultural desires than with living the truths of God.  Their arrogance is astounding!  I would suggest they read and contemplate Job, chapter 38.  I won’t quote the entire chapter here as it is too lengthy, but it begins with a stern message that many need to hear.

   “Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind; ‘Who is this that darkens council by words without knowledge? Gird up your loins like a man, I will question you, and you shall declare to me.  Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?  Tell me if you have understanding.  Who determined its measurements – surely you know!  Or who stretched the line upon it?  On what were it bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone when the morning stars sang together and all the heavenly beings shouted for joy?’” (Job 38: 1 – 7)

   The rest of the chapter goes on to show the foolishness and pride of those who would challenge the word of God to meet the desires of a sick and sinful society.  Their actions anger me and should anger all faithful Catholics.  I would suggest that they either reconsider their heresies or, for the good of the Church and all the faithful, resign and go elsewhere with their heinous teachings.

   One final quote from scripture that is entirely appropriate here;  “Be still and know that I am God!  I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.” (Psalm 46: 10).

 

Father, look down upon Your Church and see the problems we face.  Touch the hearts of those who would reject and deny Your truth.  Help them to return to the faith of their fathers.  Amen