Meditation Minutes

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Strive to enter by the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.” In today’s Gospel (Luke 13:22-30) we hear the parable about the narrow gate. Jesus’ disciples ask him, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” In his message, Jesus tells his disciples that just because you attend church does not guarantee entrance into the kingdom of Heaven. Everyone is called to participate in the formation of the kingdom of Heaven. God wants all men to enter the gate. He gives each of us special graces which make us unique. We are called to use these graces in a way to build the kingdom. Knowing God and listening to his message is not enough. Jesus said, “Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.’ But he will say, ‘I tell you, I do not know where you come from; depart from me, all you workers of iniquity!’” God does not judge us on our ability to hear but our ability to do. Not everyone who hears the Gospel but those who do the will of the Father will make it into heaven. This is the good news. People claim all I have to say is that I have been saved or I know Jesus and they are given a ticket to get through the narrow gate. It is all about participation. The Jewish people were under the impression that their salvation was guaranteed. Do we not hear that same message today, “I’m a member of such-and-such church, and therefore, I am saved.” It doesn’t work like that. Today’s Gospel tells us that everyone can make it to heaven, even those who do know God by name, but who do his will. Saying you know God or you attend church does not get you a free pass.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, you have given me many graces,

Give me the knowledge and wisdom to use these graces to serve you.

Help me to be faithful in my pursuit of the kingdom of Heaven.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“What is the kingdom of God like?” In today’s Gospel reading (Luke 13:18-21), Jesus introduces us to the kingdom of God. Jesus says that the kingdom of God “is like a grain of mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his garden; and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.” The mustard seed is one of tiniest seeds on earth and yet it grows into a magnificent tree which provides shelter and food for literally hundreds of birds. The kingdom of God is the same. It starts out as a small speck of love and kindness placed in the hearts and souls of mankind. It grows and flourishes into this massive tree which becomes the church. The church provides shelter and nourishment in the spirit of the Lord. Jesus said compared the kingdom of God to leaven. He said that the kingdom was “like leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened.” The leaven created a transformation within the bread. The bread begins to expand and spread out. If we allow the kingdom of God inside us, it too will transform us and cause us to grow in Christ. Once we have been touched by the Holy Spirit, the kingdom of God will grow within us and expand outward. Once the kingdom of God is growing within us, it overfills us and spreads to others throughout the world. Plant the seed within your soul so that you too may grow in the kingdom of God.

Heaven Father, the Holy Spirit is within me,

Let this spirit overwhelm my soul,

May it increase my love and desire for they kingdom of God.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“And he laid his hands upon her, and immediately she was made straight, and she praised God.” In today’s Gospel reading (Luke 13:10-17), Jesus heals an infirmed woman on the Sabbath. When Jesus saw this woman with an infirmity, he called her and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your infirmity.” This infirmity had bound this woman for eighteen years and prevented her from experiencing life. It says that Jesus laid his hands on her and “immediately she was made straight, and she praised God.” So what was her infirmity? Was it physical or spiritual? Because of her crippling illness, was she not able to see God? It says that Satan had hold on her body. The good news is that Jesus was able to conquer Satan and free her from the bonds which crippled her. She was now able to stand straight and see God in all his glory. We too may be inflected by Satan. He may have us bound and bent over unable to stand straight. It is through trust and belief in God that Christ can reach out, touch us and save us. Christ can wash away the evil in our lives, but only if we let him.

Sometimes the evil is cleverly disguised. The Jewish leaders were infuriated at Jesus for healing someone on the Sabbath. The Sabbath was a day of rest. One was not suppose to do any work on the Sabbath. The Ssabbath was reserved for prayer. The Jewish leaders were so caught up in the rituals that they too were blinded from the true meaning of the Sabbath. The Sabbath was a day to honor and respect God for all he had done. It is also a day for us to purify and cleanse our souls. On this day, God speaks to us through the scriptures. The scriptures provide many healing powers. God heals 24/7 – he’s God, he can do that. God does not sleep nor does he take a break. He will do anything to unite with us. What better time to loose the chains that bound us then during Mass. This is the perfect time to cry out to God for grace and mercy. You are getting ready to receive Eucharist. You are getting ready to receive Christ into your body. Christ is getting ready to touch you with his hands to free you from your infirmity.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, have mercy on my soul.

Free me from the bondage which prevents my soul from seeing you.

Free my body from evil so that I may stand righteously to do your will

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“When you see a cloud rising in the west, you say at once, `A shower is coming'; and so it happens.” In today’s Gospel (Luke 12:54-59), Jesus questions the ability of his disciples to see what is coming. He says to them, “You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky; but why do you not know how to interpret the present time?” The profits had foretold the coming of Christ and now he was among them. His disciples did not recognize him as their Messiah and Savior. With all the signs from his teachings, his miracles and his compassion and love, his disciples still did not recognize him. It is as if they had closed their eyes to the light of Christ. Jesus calls them to repent and open their eyes. He calls them to witness and see who is with them.

How many times do we miss the signs? How many times are we sitting in church and our mind is elsewhere? How many times has someone reached out to help you and you slapped their hand? Jesus is among us yet we fail to see the light. Jesus said to his disciples, “And why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? As you go with your accuser before the magistrate, make an effort to settle with him on the way, lest he drag you to the judge and the judge hand you over to the officer, and the officer put you in prison.” Jesus is telling us that we must recognize and repent for our sins before our final judgment because it will be too late if we wait till then. He wants for us to ask for forgiveness now.

Christ is before us, open your eyes and see the light. His light exposes what is in our soul. We must do everything we can to allow God to enter into our life. It is only with God that we can conquer sin and evil. We are vulnerable to Satan’s tongue if we do not seek Christ in our daily lives. When we sin, we need to call upon God immediately. We need to ask him for peace and salvation. Jesus wanted his disciples to reach out to him, not so he could punish them, but so he could free them from the slavery of sin. God is loving and forgiving. It is his grace alone that will free you from the bondage of sin. Can you see the signs? Are you ready to surrender to Christ?

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus, you are the light of my life.

Illuminate my soul so I can see your signs.

I want to choose what is right and what is just.

Help my find the path to your heart.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“I came to cast fire upon the earth.” In today’s Gospel reading (Luke 12:49-53), we hear that Jesus has come to set the earth on fire and to cause division and turmoil within families. At first read, one might conclude that Jesus was a trouble maker and then you realize that is exactly what he was. The fire that Christ brought to earth is the burning love of God, the Holy Spirit which sets our soul on fire. This fire of the Holy Spirit was given to us in our baptism. We are all called to receive and live in the fire of God. Jesus says, “I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how I am constrained until it is accomplished!” What is this baptism that Jesus refers to in this passage? It is his crucifixion and death for us. “God so loved the world that he gave his only son” (John 3:16). He calls this ultimate gift and sacrifice a baptism because he conquered sin and death to never die again. Through our Baptism, the fire of the Holy Spirit is placed within us to never die again and through our Confirmation, the Holy Spirit is revealed to the world. Our Baptism and Confirmation then becomes the same glorious acceptance of this new life and grace from God. Through our Baptism and eventually of Confirmation, we too shall become set on fire. We are called to spread our fire to others so that they may see the salvation of Christ. It is not enough to sit back and let the small flame kindle with us. We need to fan the fire until we are burning with Christ. Christ’s love should be overflowing in us and from us.

Jesus said, “Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division; for henceforth in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three.” This seems to be contradictory to his mission. In actuality, Jesus did come to bring peace and joy to the world. But sometimes, he needed to shock his disciples so they would understand the message and the importance of their mission. Jesus hoped that his mission on earth would unite all men in peace and harmony in God the Father. But unfortunately man is filled with sin and hatred and he refuses to let the fire of God grow within them. This may even happen within your family. We are called to place our relationship with God above all others, even in front of our own family. If this causes division, we are to choose God over our family. We do this not to create hatred and division, but to hopefully lead them to Christ through our own actions. Many families became divided over Christ, but through the love and compassion of God, these families became reunited in the Holy Spirit.

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus, you are the fire which lights my soul.

May your fire consume me with your love.

May your fire flow outside me to others.

May I put you before all others.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“If the householder had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have left his house to be broken into.” In today’s Gospel reading (Luke 12:39-48), Jesus again lectures us about being faithful and respecting the gifts which have been given to us. God has given us many gifts which we must treasure and take care of. Jesus says, “You also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an unexpected hour.” If your time was today, would you be ready for your judgment. God has entrusted us with much responsibility. We need to take care of God’s children and the gifts which he has bestowed upon us. Jesus says, “Blessed is that servant whom his master when he comes will find so doing.” Jesus also warns us, “But if that servant says to himself, `My master is delayed in coming,' and begins to beat the menservants and the maidservants, and to eat and drink and get drunk, the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will punish him, and put him with the unfaithful.” We must have faith in God that he will take care of us. This care and love must be reciprocated to others around us. We do these deeds as a demonstration of our faith and love for God. God expects us to use the gifts that he has given us to benefit others. The more he gives you, the more he expects from you. The deeper your faith, the bigger the commitment you must be willing to give. Jesus says, “Every one to whom much is given, of him will much be required; and of him to whom men commit much they will demand the more.” If we only use our gifts to satisfy ourselves, we are denying God’s love and we will be punished accordingly.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, I am your servant,

I am the keeper of your gifts.

Give me the wisdom to make wise use of the gifts

So that they may benefit others

And bring them to your table.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes.” In today’s gospel reading (Luke 12:35-38), Jesus tells us that we must be ready for our Master no matter when he arrives. In fact, God usually shows up when we least expect him and more often than not, when we are not ready for him. He places challenges before us to test our strength. Jesus says, “Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes.” Even more importantly, “If he comes in the second watch, or in the third, and finds them so, blessed are those servants!” The question is simple, will Christ find you a sleep or will he find you asleep at the wheel? The question in simple terms is all about your faith and your commitment to God. Do you have true faith and trust in God? Are you willing to surrender yourself to his guard? Our faithfulness allows us to live out the will of God and to be loyal to him at all times.

Faithfulness is a grace from God. He gives us the strength to stand guard against evil and sinfulness. He gives us the strength to stand up against Satan and to defeat Satan at his own game. But if we become lazy in our diligence, if we become slothful, then we fall victim to Satan. Faithfulness is an exercise. It is not something we can put in the closet and take out when we want. We must exercise this muscle. Faith can make us strong. But without practicing our faith 24-7, our faith begins to weaken and the armor can fail. First, we allow little sins into our lives, maybe a little gossip, half truths or little “white” lies. Then these “little” sins grow into deception and deception into hatred. Once we become over-weight with sinfulness, it is extremely difficult to get back into shape.

The best way to stay faithfully fit is to pray daily and even hourly. In the morning pray for a glorious day, pray for protection and pray for your faith. Also pray for those people who need God’s mercy and most importantly, pray that God gives you the strength to fight Satan. At meals, pray for God’s blessing and thank him for the nourishment which you are about to receive. At night, take time to examine your conscience. Review the day in prayer. Find out where Satan was victorious so you can defend against him tomorrow. While examining your conscience, forgive those who have sinned against you. Find it in your heart to eliminate any hatred which forms a shroud between you and God. And lastly, before you lay your head down to rest, thank God for all the glorious graces he bestowed upon you this day. Thank him for all the people who lived the gospel and were a witness to your faith and pray that the Master finds you awake and ready when he comes.

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus, you are my faithful Master and Servant.

You taught me to pray, you taught me to be compassionate.

Give me perseverance in my faith so I am always awake.

Lord, forgive me when I fail and when I fall asleep.

I want to always receive you as my Lord.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Fool! This night your soul is required of you; and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?” In today’s Gospel reading (Luke 12:13-21), Jesus tells us a parable about greediness and covetousness. In the story, a very wealthy man had lots of land which produced a bountiful yield. The rich man did not have enough space to store the harvest so he decided to tear down his barns and build new ones big enough so he could store his crops for many years. And the rich man said, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, be merry.” But God said to him, “Fool! This night your soul is required of you; and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?” When God graces us with a bountiful harvest, who does the harvest belong too? We can covet the harvest and keep it for ourselves, or we can share the harvest with others. Jesus warns us that, “He who lays up treasures for himself, is not rich toward God.” Our treasure is the thing we hold dearest to our heart. Is your treasure based on earthly riches or is it based on spiritual richness? Our life should not be measured in the abundance of our possessions, but in the abundance of our giving and love for God. In the end, the only treasure we will take with us is our soul. Jesus is not upset because the man was able to produce a large crop, but that the crop became the one desire of his heart. We must avoid letting earthly treasures consume our soul. These treasures we are given are to share with others.

A simple prayer

Lord, God, I thank you for the treasures you have given me.

May I not covet these treasures but share them with those in need.

May you become the treasure which is the subject of my life.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known.” In today’s Gospel reading (Luke 12:1-7), we learn that God is all knowing. There is nothing that we do or say that he does not know. “Therefore whatever you have said in the dark shall be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in private rooms shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.” The Gospel reading starts with a warning about the Pharisees, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” Leaven was bread that had begun to rot. This bread would have a foul odor and absolutely putrid. However, the Pharisees wanted everyone to believe that they were holy and righteous. God knows our actions and our words. No matter how we appear on the outside, God can see right into our soul. He knows if we are jealous; he knows if we condemn; he knows if we gossip and he knows if we hate. We cannot hide our sins or our inward feelings from God. We may whisper in the silence of our closets, but God is there with us. Jesus tells us, “do not fear those who kill the body” but you should “fear him who, after he has killed, has power to cast into hell.” Fear is a healthy action which can help us avoid trouble and at the same time help us spur into action. Why should we fear God? Because God has the power to send our soul into eternal darkness. He has the power to separate us from the kingdom of Heaven. The worst thing that can happen to us is not a physical death but a spiritual one. Those who truly fear the Lord will do his will to be united with him. God is the light which exposes evil. God is also the light which eliminates darkness. We should seek the light and find salvation in the Lord.

A Simple Prayer: Lord Jesus, You know my heart and my soul. You are my light and my salvation, May this light free me from my sins and transgressions, May your light lead me to the kingdom of Heaven.

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon

for the laborer deserves his wages

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” In today’s Gospel reading (Luke 10:1-9), we hear the story of the mission of the seventy disciples. Jesus commissions seventy disciples and sends them out to “heal the sick” and to proclaim that “The Kingdom of God has come near to you.” So what does it take to be a disciple of God? Jesus told them, “Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and salute no one on the road.” The seventy had to detach themselves from their earthly treasures and commit themselves to their mission. Their earthly treasures would just get in the way of their mission and make it difficult for them to deliver the eternal gifts of God. Jesus wanted them to rely on God and his graces and not become dependent upon other things. Jesus also tells them that the mission will not be easy, “I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves.” The disciples were sent out into a world who opposed them. But rest assured that these lambs were protected from the wolves by the shepherd. Because of their commitment to God, he provided everything the disciples needed to complete their mission. He provided their daily bread and the shelter they needed to protect their souls. Most importantly, he provided them with the protection of the Holy Spirit. As Apostles of God, we are also called into service. The harvest is still plentiful and the laborers are still few. We have been chosen to serve God and to be his disciples. However, when delivering the message of God, not all will be receptive. Jesus says, “And if a son of peace is there, your peace shall rest upon him; but if not, it shall return to you.” Do not be disappointed if your message is not received by all. Some will reject you and when they reject you, they are rejecting God. Know in your heart that God’s message was delivered. You will be rewarded for your efforts by God himself “for the laborer deserves his wages.”

A Simple Prayer Lord God in Heaven, I am you lamb. Give me the strength and the will to answer your call. Transform my life so that I may be a witness of your love and truth.

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon

Give me Wisdom to know Your love and justice

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“But woe to you Pharisees! for you tithe mint and rue and every herb, and neglect justice and the love of God.” In today’s Gospel reading (Luke 11:42-46), Jesus is saddened by the actions of the Pharisees and the scribes. The Pharisees are so worried about tithing every little thing that they overlook the major items like God’s justice and love. He is saddened because they are more concerned about where they are sitting in church then about sitting with God. The Pharisees were so focused on their outward image that they were neglecting their inner soul. When people see you, does your outside image reflect your inside image? Do you put on a fake façade to hide the real you? Jesus compared the Pharisees to an unkempt grave which had been overgrown – “Woe to you! for you are like graves which are not seen, and men walk over them without knowing it.” According to the Pharisees, if a person were to touch a grave, it would make them “unclean.” Jesus tells the Pharisees that those who follow their hollow ways are becoming unclean. Jesus was also angry with the leaders because they were so focused on the little things that they completely missed the important things in life. The scribes had taken the Ten Commandments and divided and subdivided and redivided the Commandments that they ended up with literally thousands of little rules. It took everything they had just to verify that they were in compliance with all these laws that they had no time to focus on the love and justice of God. Jesus was mad because they completely missed the things that mattered most; the poor, the hungry and those in most need of their love. The rules became more of a reason not to associate with someone then as a reason to embrace all of God’s people. Today’s message tells us that the most important thing is love and justice. We must love everyone no matter what they have done and aide everyone who needs help no matter what their situation. God is love and God is supreme justice. We are made in God’s image; therefore, we should reflect this love and supreme justice for all.

A Simple Prayer Lord, give me Wisdom to know your love and justice. So that my love will be a beacon which guides others to your table and That my justice will be guided by your prudence.

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon

Searching for the Sign of Jesus

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ

“This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of Jonah.” Should the Bible come with a warning label? In today’s Gospel reading (Luke 11:29-32), it appears that Jesus is giving his followers a strong warning. They are looking for some sign from God so that can see that Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus tells them that no sign will be given them except the sign of Jonah. So what was the sign of Jonah? Jonah was a profit who led the Ninevites to do penance for the transgressions. Based on Jonah’s actions and his preaching, the Ninevites realized that he was sent from God. Jonah only had to speak the words of God and the Ninevites listened and repented. Jesus preformed miracles and gave great sermons and yet the people of his time did not believe. Jesus also called us to repent so that we could be freed from our sins. Some might believe that the warning given by Jesus was to condemn the people of Israel, but was actual sign to let us know that the saving grace of God was available to set us free from the bondage of sin. God wants us to swim in the glory of his grace. Jesus is letting the Israelites know that God almighty has revealed himself on earth and nothing more significant then that will be revealed. Jesus is the sign. God wants us to see Jesus as our messiah and savior. He wants us to desire to know and love him, to seek the truth for it is through this relationship that we shall find salvation.

A Simple Prayer Lord, you are my light and my salvation, May the Holy Spirit guide me to the truth and grace of your love.

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon

Cast Satan Out

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.” In today’s Gospel reading (Luke 11:15-26), Jesus is casting out demons. Some Jews thought that Jesus was linked to Satan since he was able to cast out the demons. They questioned where he got his authority and power. But why do these Jews continue to resent Jesus and deny his miracles? They simply cannot believe that a man could do such a feat. They fail to see the power of God and fail to recognize Jesus as the Son of God. Jesus tells them: “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls. And if Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand?” If Satan is wiping out his own, wouldn’t his legions eventually fail? However, the doubters would rather attribute the power to Satan then admit the Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus tells them just the opposite, “But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.” Jesus is telling them that his ability to dispel demons is proof that the Kingdom of God has arrived. That he has come to defeat Satan and his armies by the “finger of God.”

Why does Jesus talk about a House divided? If the house is divided it is weakened by arguing and fighting between its own. This message is still true today. Christians are divided into many different religions which are focused on the differences between their beliefs instead of focusing on the similarities. Pope John Paul the Great told us to forget about the differences and focus on the commonalities between the religions. We do not see our fellow Christians as believers in Christ, but as disbelievers. Just think if we all joined forces together how big an impact that would have on the world. The divided house among Christians is the work of Satan. The more Satan can cause us to argue, the more divided we become. The more divided we become, the weaker we become.

But Jesus gives us hope. In the second half of Gospel Jesus says, “When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are in peace; but when one stronger than he assails him and overcomes him, he takes away his armor in which he trusted, and divides his spoil.” The Strong Man is Satan who works hard to occupy our hearts and our homes. Jesus is stronger than Satan and can overcome him. If we let God into our hearts, God will conquer Satan and cast out his spoils. But just because Satan has been cast out, he does not give up. ” When the unclean spirit has gone out of a man, he passes through waterless places seeking rest; and finding none he says, `I will return to my house from which I came’.” Satan will return, over and over again continually trying to conquer our souls. Jesus warns us that “when he comes he finds it swept and put in order then he goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first.”

A Simple Prayer “Lord Master of All, Cast Satan out of my heart. Help me conquer him and defeat him. Help me build a strong home to defend myself from him. When the seven return, give me strength to stand with you."

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon

God knows what is best.

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” In today’s gospel reading (Luke 11:5-11), Jesus tells the story of a late night traveler seeking hospitality from his host. No matter what time the traveler arrives, it was the obligation of the town to receive and entertain this traveler. The host needs bread to nourish the traveler and must go and get bread from one of his neighbors. Jesus says that the neighbor will not provide the bread because you are friends, but because of the importance of the visitor. This story is about prayer and asking for God’s unending supply of grace which is poured out for us. Jesus tells his disciples that they must be persistent in their prayer – “For every one who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.” If we ask God in prayer, he will provide everything you need; if we seek out God, you will find him there with you; and if you knock on his door, he will open it and receive you in. If we ask and do not receive what we want, then maybe the prayer was not sincere or it was for something we do not need. Remember the saying – be careful what you ask for. God answers every prayer – the answer just might be no. Jesus tells them, “What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion?” Jesus is telling his disciples that God will only provide what is good and what is needed. God understands what our heart is asking. We may not see it the same way, but God knows what is best. Jesus uses the image of the father-child relationship to demonstrate God’s heavenly relationship with us on earth. A good father will provide what his children needs and will not provide anything that will harm the child. God provides us with what is needed to nourish us both physically and spiritually. He provides what is needed to feed the body. Jesus concludes this story telling us how overflowing God’s grace actually is, “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” This last statement tells us that God’s grace is abundant, overflowing and unending. God provides more then what we need or we expect. God gives us his gifts freely and without conditions. We do not even have to deserve them and he will provide. We must pray with confidence for our God is kind and merciful.

A Simple Prayer Most Heaven Father, giver of all, provider of unending grace; I come to you with a contrite heart. My wants are many but my needs are few. All I ask is that you provide me with your grace so that I might live as your disciple.

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon

Lord’s Prayer

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“He was praying in a certain place, and when he ceased, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray.’” In today’s Gospel reading (Luke 11:1-4) Jesus’ disciples want to learn how to pray like him. This may seem like a very strange request, especially since Jews were very devoted to prayer. But Jesus must have been awesome to watch pray. His praying must have been inspirational to those who saw him. I’m sure they were expecting some long drawn out teaching, but Jesus responds with a simple response. Jesus responds to his disciples with the Lord’s Prayer; a simple yet confident prayer. It begins with a recognition of who God is - “Father, hallowed be thy name.” In the introduction, we recognize that God is Lord of All and that he his sacred. Then we recognize the fact that God’s kingdom is here on earth – “Thy kingdom come.” This more than a statement, it is a request to bring forth the Kingdom. In this statement, we recognize that we are building the Kingdom of God through the will of God. To do God’s labor, we ask him to nourish us with what we need to survive the day – “Give us each day our daily bread.” When Moses lead the Jews from Egypt, God told them only to take what they needed for the day. To ask for any more is greedy and wasteful. We are told that the Lord will provide us with everything we need, we just need to trust him. Then we ask, “forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive every one who is indebted to us.” It is important to ask the Lord for forgiveness every time we do something wrong. Every time we gossip, we hurt someone, we steal or we cheat, we must ask forgiveness from God. However, how can we ask for forgiveness if we fail to forgive those who have hurt us or sinned against us? When you start your evening reflection, you should start with a reflection of those who have sinned against you. This will allow you to remove the hatred or the resentment you might form against them. Once you forgive others, your heart will be freed then to accept the grace of forgiveness from God. In the last line he tells us to pray - “lead us not into temptation.” We are not asking God not to lead us into temptation because God would not do that. We are asking God to give us the strength to avoid sin and temptation. We are asking God for the strength to avoid the peer pressure and sinful desires of the world. It is us that must find the strength to avoid sin. The Lord’s Prayer is simple, yet confident. Pray with confidence in the word’s our Father gave us. Listen to the words and understand what you are asking. God’s unending grace will free us from the traps and snares which cause us to sin.

A Simple Prayer “Father, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread; and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive every one who is indebted to us; and lead us not into temptation.”

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon

Take time for God

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Mary has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away from her.” In today’s Gospel reading (Luke 10:38-42), we hear the story about Martha and Mary, two very close friends and disciples of Jesus. While Jesus was visiting their house, Martha was busy cleaning house and preparing dinner while Mary sat attentively at his feet listening to his teachings. Martha, caught up in her own neediness, complained to Jesus that Mary wasn’t helping. Jesus replies to her complaining, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things.” This gospel is describing two different servants of the Lord. Martha was busy preparing Jesus’ supper and is worried about the house, yet Mary was busy taking in the Word of God and worried about her spiritual house. Both jobs are important, but we must not let our lives get so anxious and busy that we forget to take in the Lord. While the meal that Martha was preparing is important, it is not as important as the food that Mary was receiving. How many of our lives are filled with activities which keep us from church, from prayer, from sitting at the feet of Christ? When we participate in these activities, do you invite God? Are you too busy to nourish yourself on the Word of God? Slow down, take time to stop and smell the roses; take time for God. No matter how busy your life is, do not forget to pray and experience a deeper relationship with God.

A Simple Prayer “Lord, to be in your presence is life and joy for me. Free me from needless concerns and preoccupations that I may give you my undivided love and attention.”

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon

We are the laborers of God.

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” In today’s gospel reading (Luke 10:1-12), Jesus has commission 70 disciples to go out into the world to preach the good news that “the kingdom of God has come near to you.” Jesus was telling these disciples that there are many who seek God and seek the Kingdom of Heaven and we must go and find them. The seeds have been planted and the crop is rich. It is time to bring in the crop. We too are called to be the laborers of Christ. We must go out into the world and harvest the fields. These seeds have been planted in every human soul. It is our job to make sure that the fruit of the harvest is plentiful. But Jesus also warns his disciples that it will not be easy. He says, “Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves.” The Lambs represent the peacemakers and disciples of Christ; those who humbly commit to do the work of God. Yet the world is full of opposition to those who wish to do God’s work. These wolves of society persecute the lambs and try to prevent them from doing their work. We as lambs need to know that God is with us and will protect us in our journey. Those who bend to the will of God will experience the Kingdom of Heaven but those who do not will bring condemnation on themselves and their village. We must accept and fully embrace that we are the laborer of God. This is a gift which God has bestowed upon us. We are either with Christ or against. There is no in between. Once we try to establish excuses or reasons why we can’t, we immediately become consumed by the wolves.

A Simple Prayer Lord, I am your lamb and your servant. The harvest is plentiful and ripe, Give me the strength to work the field To build the Kingdom of Heaven.

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon

We are all called to follow Christ.

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“I will follow you wherever you go.” Have you made the decision to follow Christ no matter what he asks of you? I know your first answer is going to be yes. But, have you really made the decision to follow Christ unconditionally. In today’s gospel reading (Luke 9:57-62), Jesus’ disciples come to tell him that they want to follow him. But Jesus tells his disciples that following him is not going to be an easy task. He told one disciple, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head.” Following Jesus means giving up the things that make us comfortable. Our home is a place of warmth and comfort. A place that we feel safe. While we may not have to give up our home, Jesus is telling his disciples that they will have to give up things that prevent them from being fully committed to God. A second disciple tells Jesus, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father” and a third tells Jesus, “Lord; but let me first say farewell to those at my home.” These men want to follow Christ, but only on their terms and conditions. They still have things that are preventing them from being fully committed to Christ. Jesus says to these men, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.” How can you plow a straight line if you are looking back to where you were and not where you are going? We are all called to follow Christ. When Christ calls, you must follow unconditionally. You must be willing to sacrifice. This calling is a gift from God which we must receive into our hearts. If your heart is too busy worrying about what you left behind, how can you focus on what needs to be done to build the Kingdom of God.

A Simple Prayer Lord, I will follow you. Give me the strength to abandon those things which prevent me from following you. Help me remove those obstacles which prevent me from moving forward with you. I am your servant; all that I have is a gift from you. These gifts I put before you so I can serve you according to your will.

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon

The Faith of a Child

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” In today’s gospel reading (Matthew 18:1-5, 10) Jesus again uses a child as an example to teach the apostles. Jesus is asked, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And he replies a child. Children represent a pure innocence which lacks pride and ambition, the two greatest sins of man. A child believes unconditionally and does not suffer from doubt. Think of a young child 4 or 5 years old. They believe in God without question; they trust in God without doubt; they love without consideration for what others will give back; and most importantly, they humble themselves before the Lord. Children express the most sincere wonder and awe for God in Heaven. The Holy Spirit completely engulfs their soul making them the brightest light of all. Jesus goes on to say, “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me.” Receiving a child is an expression of love. Children reflect the innocence, purity and tenderness that were expressed by Jesus while he was on this earth and that which is further expressed by our Father in Heaven. Children represent the purity which we are called to be.

We are also warned by Jesus in today’s gospel, “See that you do not despise one of these little ones; for I tell you that in heaven their angels always behold the face of my Father who is in heaven.” Jesus tells us that the small defenseless child has extra protection from the angels. The angels serve as their body guard and their champion. If you do anything to hurt or corrupt one of these young children of God, their Guardian Angel will plead their case before God. However, each of us is also given an angel to protect us from evil and to help guide us through life. We too can call upon our guardian angel to not only help us when we are in trouble, but to help those in need. I remember one time talking with a very young child about being sick and not feeling well. That child offered me her guardian angel to help make me feel better. The purity and innocence of this offering from this young child is the same innocence of love that God expresses for all. To deny a child is to deny the love that God has created in that child becuase each child is not only innocent but a gift from God. . .

A Simple Prayer Lord God in Heaven Your love is pure and innocent like that of a young child Help me find that childlike wonder and awe that expresses my true love for you Send your angels to watch over me and protect me from evil.

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon

We must humble

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“For he who is least among you all is the one who is great." Today’s gospel (Luke 9:46-50) is all about pride and ambition. The apostles are arguing over who is the greatest among them. One of them feels that they must be first among the rest. Jesus, sensing the tension between them grabs a young child and places him at his right hand and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me; for he who is least among you all is the one who is great.” It’s amazing that Jesus uses a young child to set the example. Children in the time of Jesus had no rights or standing in society. They were at the very bottom of the ladder of society. When we are ambitious and seeking glory for ourselves, we are trying to elevate ourselves to the very top rung. A young child is meek and humble and innocent and does not see the ladder.

Not only are his disciples arguing over who is first, but they are also upset that they are not exclusive. John complains that someone else was casting out demons in the name of Jesus. The apostles told him to stop because he was not one of the twelve. But Jesus said to him, “Do not forbid him; for he that is not against you is for you.” What gave them the exclusive right to Jesus? Are we not all called to cast out demons in Christ’s name? Are we not all called to be servants of the Lord? We must humble and set ourselves at the bottom of the ladder to truly be first in the eyes of God. Jesus came to this earth to serve and not to be served. We are called to mimic Christ, we are called to be servants.

A Simple Prayer Lord, allow your grace to overflow into me, To give me strength to be humble and meek, To have a childlike level of innocence. May that grace give me strength to serve others.

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon