Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“The kingdom of heaven is like a net which was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind.”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 13:47-53

47 "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net which was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind; 48 when it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into vessels but threw away the bad. 49 So it will be at the close of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous, 50 and throw them into the furnace of fire; there men will weep and gnash their teeth. 51 "Have you understood all this?" They said to him, "Yes." 52 And he said to them, "Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old." 53 And when Jesus had finished these parables, he went away from there.

"The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous." It sounds like today's gospel is about the judgment day, but it is also about the church and her mission. Jesus tells us that the "kingdom of heaven is like a net thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind." Fish nets are non discriminating. The nets gather everything in the water, the good fish, the bad fish, the trash, and the seaweed. The fish net represents the church. The church is non discriminating. It invites everyone into her net. The church does not care if you are righteous or not. The message of Christ is available to everyone who will join her. It catches all the fish – the good fish and the bad fish. The fishermen then cull the good fish from the bad fish. The good fish are placed in coolers to preserve them while the bad fish are thrown away. Once the net has been cast it is up to the church to teach the ways of Christ, to show everyone the glory of God. The mission of the church is to bring us all to Christ so we can share in the glory of the Kingdom of Heaven. However, we must be worthy to enter. The church will bring us there, but it is up to make ourselves worthy.

A Simple Prayer

Lord Father, your net has been cast.

May I be worthy of the catch.

I long for the treasure of the kingdom of heaven.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 13:44-46

44 "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. 45 "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, 46 who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.

What are the treasures that you hold most dear to your heart? What treasures really matter in your life? In today's gospel reading Jesus tells us that "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field." If you were to find the Kingdom of Heaven today, would you be able to give up everything you own for it? This question is difficult to answer honestly because we all want the kingdom of heaven, but when we find it, it is difficult for us to give up our earthly treasures. If we look around, the kingdom of heaven is forth coming today. We do not need to wait. In the Lord’s Prayer, we say “Thy kingdom come” recognizing that the kingdom of heaven is before us. The real question is, are we are a part of the construction crew. When we do charitable work, it is easy to see the kingdom of heaven in the work that is being done. Also, when we have the opportunity to sacrifice our own time and talent, the joy we experience is truly the kingdom of heaven. This summer at Catholic Heart Work Camp, I had the most wonderful opportunity to go out and witness the power of Holy Spirit in his full glory as youth from all over the country came together to help others.

If you stop and look, you will see the kingdom of heaven all around us. However, fully discovering and embracing the kingdom is a different story. To embrace the kingdom means to sacrifice and to suffer for God. Sometimes those sacrifices may mean giving up friends who lead you away from the kingdom. It may also mean making difficult decisions in which you must choose between church and a movie or a retreat over a football game. If you truly discover Christ, you will truly discover the kingdom of heaven. The kingdom of heaven is here and now. It is being built around you. If you want to go to heaven, don't wait, it's here. When you help someone else, when you give freely of the talents you were provided you experience the joy heaven today.

A Simple Prayer

"Lord Jesus, you revealed the kingdom of heaven to your people.

Help me find the love and joy in my heart which will lead me to you.

Help me give up the earthly treasures for the truly eternal treasure which you gave us.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.”

Scripture: John 11:19-27

19 Many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to console them concerning their brother. 20 When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him, while Mary sat in the house. 21 Martha said to Jesus, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 And even now I know that whatever you ask from God, God will give you." 23 Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise again." 24 Martha said to him, "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day." 25 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?" 27 She said to him, "Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, he who is coming into the world."

Meditation: For the past couple of weeks, I have been participating in a small discussion group regarding Pope Benedicts Encyclical on Hope. The theme of our discussion centered around the saying, “Everybody wants to go to heaven, but nobody wants to die.” Today’s Gospel message talks about the joy and the hope of our own resurrection. Martha approached Jesus with great confidence. She had no doubt that Jesus could raise he brother from the dead. She did not say if you can - she says I know you can, but will you… We too need to approach Christ with the same level of confidence. Jesus tells us that he is “the resurrection and the life, … and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.” This is our hope, that through our faith we will find hope in eternal salvation. Martha recognized in Jesus this hope of eternal life. She says to Jesus, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” Again, her statement is made without doubt. The grace of hope which was given to her allows her to realize the eternal salvation which awaits her. When Jesus asks her if she believes she replies, “Yes Lord; I believe…” She realizes that Jesus is the Christ and the kingdom of heaven which is “coming into the world.” The miracle of Lazarus is a sign of Christ’s power to give life to people. Therefore, as Christians, we believe and hope that death is not the end, but simply a step into eternal life. The Roman missal says, “Lord, for your faithful people life is c hanged, not ended. When the body of our earthly dwelling lies in death, we gain an everlasting dwelling place in heaven.” What are you willing to die for? Do you believe in the resurrection and the life of the world to come? Do you that Christ is the source of eternal life? It is through our hope that we are saved.

A Simple Prayer

Lord Christ, you are the resurrection and the life.

Give me the strength to die to the worldly treasures so that I may know the eternal treasure of heaven.

I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, he who is coming into the world.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave.”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 20:20-28

20 Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came up to him, with her sons, and kneeling before him she asked him for something. 21 And he said to her, "What do you want?" She said to him, "Command that these two sons of mine may sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom." 22 But Jesus answered, "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am to drink?" They said to him, "We are able." 23 He said to them, "You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father." 24 And when the ten heard it, they were indignant at the two brothers. 25 But Jesus called them to him and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. 26 It shall not be so among you; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave; 28 even as the Son of man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

Today’s gospel reading reminds me of the school playground when I was in elementary school. It seem like one kid was always the king of the playground and the rest of the kids regarded him as the ruler. Once somebody took charge, every other kid wanted to be his second in command. The apostles John and James were no different. They were beginning to realize that Jesus was the head of the playground, the Messiah, and they wanted to position themselves at the right and left hand of the new king-of-the-hill. Jesus asks them if they can handle the pressure. He tells them that it won’t be easy being his follower and that life on the playground is tough. They tell Jesus not to worry, that they can handle the playground. When the rest of the apostles hear that John and James are jockeying for position, they become agitated and upset. So Jesus calls them all around to explain the rules of the playground. He tells them: “that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave.” Jesus was sent to this earth to be our Lord and savior, not to lord over us. To be at the right hand of the Father, we must not be the master but be the slave. We must be willing to do for others. We must be willing to make great sacrifices for the benefit of those in need. Just as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, we too must take on a life of service for others. Jesus’ service to mankind was exemplified in all his actions and his teaching. His mission was one of enduring love and compassion for all man, not just those that believed. He reached out to the sick and to the sinner; to the Jew and the Gentile. Jesus lets us know that for us to have any true authority, we must sit in the back and humble ourselves to those that need us. He tells us that we must be last to be first. God gives each of us so many graces not so we can hold these powers over people, but so we can use these powers to create the Kingdom of God right here on earth. We must be a community for others. We must be willing to be generous with our gifts, our talents and our time for everything that we own was given to us from by God above. Even the life that we breathe is a gift from God. We do not own anything. We may not always be popular and we may not always be seen as the king of the playground, but we will always be loved by our Father in Heaven. Are you willing to commit to God? Are you willing to drink from the same sacrificial cup? For us, the sacrificial cup means a daily commitment to Christ, daily prayer, a daily renewal of our faith and most of all, service to others.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, Jesus, make me a servant; humble and meek.

Lord let me lift up those who are weak;

And may the prayer of my heart always be - Make me a servant.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“You shall indeed hear but never understand, and you shall indeed see but never perceive.”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 13:10-17

10 Then the disciples came and said to him, "Why do you speak to them in parables?" 11 And he answered them, "To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. 12 For to him who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 13 This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. 14 With them indeed is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah which says: `You shall indeed hear but never understand, and you shall indeed see but never perceive. 15 For this people's heart has grown dull, and their ears are heavy of hearing, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should perceive with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and turn for me to heal them.' 16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. 17 Truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous men longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.

What is it that we seek from the gospel? To know Christ. To become more intimate with our Father in Heaven. Today’s Gospel reading conveys a very simple message. Many of us are present, but not many of us participate. The Holy Spirit is all around us. Miracles happen every day before our eyes. Yet we go on ignoring the wonder and awe that the Lord has placed before us. We must open our hearts, our ears and eyes to the message of Christ. Both faith and understanding and gifts of the Holy Spirit that enable us to know God more fully. We should ask God to allow these gifts to expand our mind. Allow our reasoning to reveal God to us. More important, we should ask God for the strength and wisdom to share the Gospel with others so that they might hear rand see the Word of God. For many people, spiritual eyes are closed because of hearts are closed and they are unwilling to let God in to their lives. Jesus spoke in parables to simplify the message so that all could understand. If He could turn their ears to the simple message, hopefully He would turn their hearts. We must be willing to humble ourselves before God. In our humbleness, we will see God. We must be willing to learn and submit to the wisdom and truth which only comes from God. You can only hear the message if you want to hear the message. Open your heart, your eyes and your ears.

A Simple Prayer

Lord God, I submit to you.

Give me wisdom and understanding to hear the your word.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“He who has ears, let him hear.”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 13:1-9

1 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. 2 And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat there; and the whole crowd stood on the beach. 3 And he told them many things in parables, saying: "A sower went out to sow 4 and as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them. 5 Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they had not much soil, and immediately they sprang up, since they had no depth of soil, 6 but when the sun rose they were scorched; and since they had no root they withered away. 7 Other seeds fell upon thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. 8 Other seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. 9 He who has ears, let him hear."

Today’s Gospel reading has a very simple message, “He who has ears, let him hear.” We must be attentive to the Word of God. We must be open to hear what Christ has to say through his teachings. When we are born, a seed is placed within each of us. We are given the basic desire and hope for God’s love. The question is, “What do we do with that seed. Is that seed nourish and fertilized and allowed to grow or are we open and receptive to the word of God? For some, the seed is quickly consumed by the material treasures of this world for ever to be lost to the kingdom of God. These people completely shut out the Word of God and allow other things to control their lives. These seeds bear no fruit at all. For others, the seed has no foundation. We were introduced to the Gospel, yet it does not form the very foundation of our lives. We may hear the message, but it only momentarily impacts our lives. Then there are those who have set their roots in the message of Christ and make themselves fruitful for the kingdom of God. These people listen to the Word of God and make it a fundamental part of their lives. Yet even some of these people, still cannot let go of the things that bind them to this world. They let the weeds and thorns of this world distract them and prevent them from becoming fully enveloped by God. Where is your seed sown? Do you need to clear out some weeds in your life. Take some time to reflect on the message. It may be time to replant your seed in good soil and nurture it so it can become a productive seed producing many fruits for our Father in heaven.

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus, you are the Master Gardener.

May my seed be planted in your soil.

May it grow vigorously and be fruitful.

Help me clear the weed and thorns from my life.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.”

Gospel Reading: John 20:1-2,11-18

1 Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. 2 So she ran, and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him." 11 But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb; 12 and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. 13 They said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping?" She said to them, "Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him." 14 Saying this, she turned round and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. 15 Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping? Whom do you seek?" Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away." 16 Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned and said to him in Hebrew, "Rab-bo'ni!" (which means Teacher). 17 Jesus said to her, "Do not hold me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brethren and say to them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God." 18 Mary Mag'dalene went and said to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord"; and she told them that he had said these things to her.

“Woman, why are you weeping?” In today’s Gospel reading, Mary Magdalene is seeking out Jesus at his tomb. It says that she was weeping outside the tomb and when she looked inside the tomb she saw two angles sitting where the body of Jesus had lain. The angles wanted to know why she was weeping. She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” “Saying this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus.” How many times are we seeking Jesus but do not see him standing there with us. Mary was looking for Jesus and He was right there with her. And finally, when Jesus calls her name, she recognizes him. Being filled with the joy of the encounter with Christ, she goes and tells the disciples, “I have seen the Lord.” It is not enough for us to know about the Lord, but we must encounter Christ in our lives. We must experience Him when He calls our name. We must be willing to go to others and say, “I have seen the Lord.” An encounter with Christ is the very foundation of the Christian faith. To be truly Christian is to have experienced Christ first hand. It is through our faith that we can see the power of the resurrection and eternal life. It is through the eyes of our faith that we encounter the Kingdom of God here on earth. Celebrate your encounter with Christ and shout out, “Alleluia, Alleluia, I have seen the Lord!”

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus, Father in heaven.

You are the risen Christ.

It is through you that my sins are forgiven.

It is through you that I find eternal life.

Give me the eyes of faith to see you.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you.”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 12:38-42

38 Then some of the scribes and Pharisees said to him, "Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you." 39 But he answered them, "An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign; but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. 40 For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the whale, so will the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. 41 The men of Nineveh will arise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and behold, something greater than Jonah is here. 42 The queen of the South will arise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than Solomon is here.

Are we no different a society then was present at the time of Jesus. I think Christ would still call us an “evil and adulterous generation.” What was the sign of Jonah? Why do we still ask for proof or scientific evidence of the existence of God? People still today try to prove that the historical Jesus existed through ancient writing and artifacts. Why do we demand proof that Jesus was around. We should be focused on living the life of Jesus and not trying to validate his existence. It becomes a matter of faith. In today’s gospel message, the Pharisees and the scribes demand to see a sign from Jesus so they can validate that he is the messenger from God. What does Jesus mean by adulterous in today’s reading. He is referring to their spiritual infidelity. They questioned God and they demanded God give them a sign. Jesus tells them that he is the sign and they should need no other. The Pharisees and the scribes rejected Jesus as the sign. They could not accept him as the Son of God. For some reason, healing people, freeing them from their internal demons and bringing people back from the dead was not enough. To believe in God and recognize the signs which he so clearly provides to us should be enough for us yet at times we demand a sign. We say to him, “If only …, then I would believe.”

God performs miracles before our very eyes so we can witness his greatness. What other signs do we need? Instead, we allow the darkness of evil in the world to blind our vision. When we witness a miracle, we should fall to our knees and praise the blessing which he has bestowed upon us; that he has provided a sign so we may believe. Jesus told the Jews that “Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the whale, so will the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” This would be the ultimate sign proving that he is truly the Son of God, the Messiah. It is ok to have doubts, but do not let your doubts become demands of God. We should seek the answer and not allow the doubts to grow into demands of our God. We just need to open our hearts and allow the Holy Spirit to fill us with wisdom and he will show us his glory. Miracles occur every day. If we wish to have the wisdom of the Holy Spirit in us, we must humble ourselves to the Lord.

A Simple Prayer:

“Lord Jesus, fill me with your Holy Spirit that I may grow in wisdom and knowledge of your love and truth.

Free me from stubborn pride and willfulness that I may wholly desire to do what is pleasing to you.”

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“I desire mercy and not sacrifice”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 12:1-8

1 At that time Jesus went through the grain fields on the Sabbath; his disciples were hungry, and they began to pluck heads of grain and to eat. 2 But when the Pharisees saw it, they said to him, "Look, your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath." 3 He said to them, "Have you not read what David did, when he was hungry, and those who were with him: 4 how he entered the house of God and ate the bread of the Presence, which it was not lawful for him to eat nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests? 5 Or have you not read in the law how on the Sabbath the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath, and are guiltless? 6 I tell you, something greater than the temple is here. 7 And if you had known what this means, `I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the guiltless. 8 For the Son of man is lord of the Sabbath."

In today’s gospel reading, Jesus’ disciples are chastised by the Pharisees for not keeping the Sabbath. According to Jewish Law, the Sabbath was set aside as a time of rest when the Jews were not to do any work or labor. Today, Conservative Jews take this day very seriously. They go as far as to limit the number of steps one takes, everything they eat on this day is prepared the day before and they go to great lengths not expend any labor. This day was set aside to honor the greatness of God’s creation. In the gospel story, the disciples were hungry and therefore were harvesting and eating corn. This action was forbidden on this day. Jesus explains that these actions are not in violation of the Sabbath and that when men are hungry, it is okay for them to eat. Jesus says that God “desires mercy and not sacrifice.” He is telling the Jews while the ritual of the Sabbath is important, compassion for mans basic human needs are more important. Jesus was trying to tell the Jews that they were missing the truly important meaning of the Sabbath. The Sabbath is truly about honoring the greatness of God’s creation. If we allow God’s creation to suffer on this day, then are we really honoring this day. If we see a person who is hungry, should we not feed them. Allowing him to starve would be dishonoring this day.

Modern Christians have lost the meaning of honoring the Sabbath. Stores are now open on Sundays. Most of us work on Sundays or are involved in activities that take us away from the greatness of this day. Many Christians do not even go to mass anymore. We are so busy that we forget the importance of this day. We are still called to keep holy the Sabbath day. This is still one of the commandments. Dishonoring this commandment is a sin. This means that we are called to rest and to reflect on this day. We are to go to church, to pray and give thanks for all the things that God has given us. Many of us are so busy that this day goes on like any other day. We should take the time on this day to cherish what God has given us. We need to take time to smell the roses. We should celebrate the graces that God has bestowed upon us. We should spend time with our family and most importantly, we should spend time before with Christ thanking him for the sacrifice he made to save our souls.

A Simple Prayer

Lord God, thank you for all of creation.

Thank you for the mountains and thank you for the seas and the oceans.

Thank you for all the living creatures on this earth.

Give me the wisdom to know the Sabbath and to honor it.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 11:28-30

28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

Today’s Gospel reading is such a comforting message when we consider the message from earlier this week. Jesus tells us to take up the yoke of the Lord “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” To help ease the load on the oxen, each ox had its own tailor made yoke. Jesus tells us that he will help us with our load if we will take up his yoke. He has a tailor made yoke just for us. It is designed to free us from the heavy burden of life. Yokes are made for two. This makes room for you and Christ to pull the load. We are called to pull the load of Christ which sets us free from the heavy burden of sin. Any other load is crushing and weighs us down. It is through Christ that we find our worries removed.

We are all called to prepare for the coming of Christ. We open the doors to our soul to let Christ in. He is coming to lighten our load and to remove the burdens of sin which we place upon ourselves. Through Christ, our sins are not only forgiven, but removed from our cart. Through reconciliation, we ask God to lift the sins from our back. It is through the love Christ that he relieves us from our burden. We too have the option to lighten the load of others. We are called to forgive those who trespass against us. When we ask for forgiveness we are also called to give forgiveness. This forgiveness removes the burden which others have placed upon themselves. What a great place this world would be if we all forgave each other for all the sins that they committed. Take up the yoke of Christ and he will give you rest.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, my yoke is heavy and my load is burdensome.

Help me free myself from the burdens which hold me back

And give me strength to help free the burden placed on others.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and any one to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 11:25-27

25 At that time Jesus declared, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes; 26 yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. 27 All things have been delivered to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and any one to whom the Son chooses to reveal him."

Why would God hide things from adults and reveal them to the babes? Think of the time when you were very young, maybe even before you were in school. You believed in God and Jesus and all His miracles without question. You believed the stories and were amazed at the wonder and awe expressed by Jesus in his works on earth. I can remember sitting there listening to my religion teacher teaching us about Jesus and never once did I doubt the things that I was told. A child is simple and tends to think in a simple way. This simplicity allows Jesus to be revealed to a child in his full glory. A child is naturally humble with no consuming pride which prevents them from seeing God as our creator, Lord and master. The questions and the comments that young children ask are from their innocence and reveal to them the greatness of the Father in Heaven. Yet as we grow in world knowledge and understanding, we somehow let this new found intelligence cloud our vision of God. We begin to rationalize his existence and justify his being. We try to use science to confirm his miracles instead of just simply accepting Jesus as who he is. We want the physical evidence to explain the unknown.

We are all called to have a childlike belief in the Father and the Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Not only does a babe express unconditional belief in our Father in heaven, they also express unconditional love. The clearest example of this is a child’s loves for their parents. This love is unbounded and without limitations or conditions. Jesus Christ expressed this same unconditional love when he walked on the earth saving us from our sins and lastly when he died on the cross to defeat evil. Jesus expressed love perfected and without blemish. Jesus tries to reveal himself to us through his miracles and his teachings. We must become childlike in our belief to fully grasp the unconditional love that was expressed by Christ for us. We must humble ourselves. It does no good to brag about our intelligence if this intelligence keeps the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit from being fully revealed to us.

A Simple Prayer

Lord I ask for childlike belief and understanding so that I can see you in your true glory.

May this childlike expression of love fill me with a deeper relationship with you.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Woe to you, Chorazin! woe to you, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes.”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 11:20-24

20 Then he began to upbraid the cities where most of his mighty works had been done, because they did not repent. 21 "Woe to you, Chorazin! woe to you, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. 22 But I tell you, it shall be more tolerable on the day of judgment for Tyre and Sidon than for you. 23 And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You shall be brought down to Hades. For if the mighty works done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. 24 But I tell you that it shall be more tolerable on the day of judgment for the land of Sodom than for you."

Do we need to add our own town to this list? What would Jesus say to us if He were to visit our community or even our church. Today’s message is again a warning to his disciples. Jesus is just a little upset with the people from these two towns for he has done great miracles in these towns and the people have not repented to the Lord. Chorazin and Bethsaida were two small communities probably represented by a single Jewish synagogue. He compares them to the towns of Sodom, Tyre and Sidon. These towns were known for loose living, prostitution, gambling, drunkenness. We all know what happened to Sodom and how they were punished for their loose living and sinful ways. Jesus tells the people from these two towns “that it shall be more tolerable on the day of judgment for the land of Sodom than for you.” This is probably one of Jesus’ harshest warnings he gives in the Gospel of Matthew.

The people have witnessed the great miracles preformed by Christ. They have seen Jesus cure people of ailments, being deaf or blind, and even people possessed by the devil. They have heard the His teachings first hand and yet they are indifferent to him. Would Jesus deliver the same message to us today? What would he think about our own home? Is Jesus Christ alive in your house? When people visit your house, can they tell that you are a disciple of Christ. When we look at our community, can we see the miracles of God that occur all around them? We are called to proclaim the word of God and we are called to repent. When Jesus said that these towns did not repent, he implies that they did not change their ways. We need to change our ways to create change within our community. We need to convince others to change their ways so that they can realize the salvation of the Word of God. It is through our actions and our words that our family and our community can see the change in us. Jesus’ anger in today’s gospel is really sadness for us. He is sad because we have not seen the light of his salvation. If we do not change then we will not be with him in heaven. Christ calls each of us walk with him; to carry our cross and to repent for our sins. We are all sinners and we must all repent, we must all change. None of us are perfect.

A Simple Prayer

Most Glorious God in Heaven

Open my heart and my mind so that you can reign in on me.

Shower me with your grace so that I can change.

May my change be seen by others as new light leading them to Christ.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“He who loves father and mother more than me is not worthy of me”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 10:34 - 11:1

34 "Do not think that I have come to bring peace on earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. 35 For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; 36 and a man's foes will be those of his own household. 37 He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he who loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; 38 and he who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39 He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for my sake will find it. 40 "He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives him who sent me. 41 He who receives a prophet because he is a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward, and he who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward. 42 And whoever gives to one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he shall not lose his reward." (Matthew 11) 1 And when Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and preach in their cities.

Generally when we think of the gospel message from Jesus, we think of love and joy and hope. Jesus’ words usually instill compassion for his fellow man. However, today’s gospel message appears to be rather harsh and condemning. Jesus tells us: “Do not think that I have come to bring peace on earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.” Why would Jesus want us to take up a sword against our parents or to be in opposition to our families? This does not sound like a person who came in peace to love and serve the world, but one who wants to start a war. Not only was Jesus sent to love the world, he was also sent to defeat the powers of evil and free us from darkness. Jesus is trying to tell us that our true salvation comes from obedience to Him and that me must follow Him no matter what the cost. We must open our hearts to hear the Word of the Lord and not let others lead us astray, not even our own families. The sword that we must take up is not a sword of steel, but the Holy Scriptures. We must be willing to take up our cross and follow him no matter what happens to us.

Today’s Gospel message is not telling us to be disobedient to our parents or to be in opposition to the fourth commandment, but to the set the first commandment above all. In this great battle, Satan is trying to defeat Christ and lead us into darkness. Satan will use any means available to lead us astray. Satan wants to establish conflict that separates us from Christ. The actions you take and the decisions you make establish which trail you are on. You cannot be on two trails at the same time. Either you are following Christ or you are not. This boils down to the classic battle between good and evil. Our decisions, our actions and our words will determine whether we are walking toward the light or toward darkness. The message is clear and we must be willing to risk our present life to have eternal salvation. This is like gossiping about someone and justifying it by saying it’s the truth. If we are gossiping, we are looking for the darkness in someone. Instead, we are called to find the good in everyone.

The gospel message goes on to have a very positive message: “He who receives a prophet because he is a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward, and he who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward. And whoever gives to one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he shall not lose his reward.” Christ asks us to find good in the world. We must seek good and not evil; we must look for the good in everyone. We must try to find the good in the least of our brothers. Not only will this make you a better person, it will bring you closer to Christ. Christ came to help us find the light and to show us the way. By seeking the righteousness and good in people, we are showing them the light and the way. The true love expressed by God is for everyone and we must express that same love. We are not only asked to love our families and our best friends, but those who are difficult to love. If we give to others, Christ tells us that we will be rewarded in heaven. We are not called to serve ourselves but to serve God, for he who serves God will celebrate with our Father in Heaven.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, lead me to you.

May I be obedient to you;

May my actions and words be pleasing;

Help me to find the goodness in others

So I can receive the rewards that you promised.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation: Why does Jesus describe his mission and the coming of God's kingdom in terms of conflict, division, and war? Jesus came in peace to reconcile a broken and sinful humanity with an all-merciful and loving God. Jesus also came to wage war, to overthrow the powers and principalities arrayed against God and his kingdom. What are these powers? Jesus describes Satan as the ruler of this world whom he will cast out (John 12:31). The battle Jesus had in mind was not an earthly conflict between nations, but a spiritual warfare between the forces of Satan and the armies of heaven. The scriptures make clear that there are ultimately only two powers or kingdoms – God's kingdom of light and the kingdom of darkness. John contrast these two kingdoms in the starkest of terms: We know that we are of God, and the whole world is in the power of the evil one (1 John 5:19).

What does Satan seek? To be the ruler of his destiny and master of his universe. He will not rest until everthing and everyone has come under his power and authority. That is why Satan is opposed to God and to everyone who swears allegiance to God's authority and rule in their lives. The evil one has but one aim – the complete domination of our heart, mind, and will to his kingdom. And he will use any means possible to draw us from good to evil, from truth to deception, from light to darkness, and from life to death. There are no neutral parties in this spiritual battle. We are either for or against the kingdom of God. The choices we make and the actions we take reveal whose kingdom we choose to follow. Jesus came to overthrow Satan's power and to set us free from everything that would keep us from the love of God and his wise rule in our lives – freedom from slavery to sin and our unruly desires, freedom from fear, greed, and selfishness.

When Jesus spoke about division he likely had in mind the prophecy of Micah: a man's enemies are the men of his own household (Micah 7:6). The love of God compels us to choose who will be first in our lives. To place any relationship or anything else above God is a form of idolatry. Jesus challenges his disciples to examine who they love first and foremost. A true disciple loves God above all else and is willing to forsake all for Jesus Christ. Jesus insists that his disciples give him the loyalty which is only due to God, a loyalty which is higher than spouse or kin. It is possible that family and friends can become our enemies, if the thought of them keeps us from doing what we know God wants us to do.

True love for God compels us to express charity towards our neighbor who is created in the image and likeness of God. Jesus declared that any kindness shown and any help given to the people of Christ will not lose its reward. Jesus never refused to give to anyone in need who asked for his help. As his disciples we are called to be kind and generous as he is. Jesus sets before his disciples the one goal in life that is worth any sacrifice and that goal is the will of God which leads to everlasting life, peace, and joy with God. Does the love of Jesus Christ compel you to put God first in all you do (2 Corinthians 5:14)?

"Lord, no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no heart has conceived the things you have prepared for those who love you. Set us ablaze with the fire of the Holy Spirit, that we may love you in and above all things and so receive the rewards you have promised us through Christ our Lord." (from A Christian's Prayer Book)

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 10:16-23

16 "Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. 17 Beware of men; for they will deliver you up to councils, and flog you in their synagogues, 18 and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear testimony before them and the Gentiles. 19 When they deliver you up, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour; 20 for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. 21 Brother will deliver up brother to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death; 22 and you will be hated by all for my name's sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved. 23 When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next; for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel, before the Son of man comes.

Have you ever felt when your around your friends that you needed to defend your faith or that you were attacked because of your faith or were told that you’re not really Christian. In today’s gospel, Jesus tells us that we are sent “out as sheep in the midst of wolves.” The gospel reading tells us that we will encounter opposition to our faith: “Beware of men; for they will deliver you up to councils, and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear testimony before them and the Gentiles.” We must stand strong in our faith and be the example of what it means to be a member of the one true church. Be proud to be a Catholic, but do not let the pride become boastful. It is through your example that others will learn what it means to be a member of the one catholic and apostolic church. When you are put on trial by others, God tells us, “Do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour.” Every week when you go to mass and receive the Eucharist, you receive the energy you need to defend the church and to defend your faith. You become a living tabernacle of Christ and symbol of the love that was poured out for us on the cross. There are many false churches out there that are not true to the teachings of Christ, some even promise earthly riches, and others contend that a simple statement of belief is all you need to be “saved”. The commitment to Christ is much more significant than that. It is a journey with many trials and we are not the judge or the jury in these trials. Only God can judge our actions. We will fail in some of these trials, but our faith is what gives us the strength to get back up and return to the path. Be strong my young lambs for you are among wolves, wolves dressed in sheep’s clothing. But God gives us hope. If we endure and have patience to conquer these trials, we will be saved in the end.

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus, I am a sheep among wolves.

Give me the wisdom and knowledge to defend my faith.

Allow me to be a beacon of hope for others.

Give me the strength to accept the persecution of others.

Give me the courage to do your will.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

"You received without paying, give without paying"

Gospel Reading: Matthew 10:7-15

7 And preach as you go, saying, `The kingdom of heaven is at hand.' 8 Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying, give without pay. 9 Take no gold, nor silver, nor copper in your belts, 10 no bag for your journey, nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor a staff; for the laborer deserves his food. 11 And whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy in it, and stay with him until you depart. 12 As you enter the house, salute it. 13 And if the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. 14 And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet as you leave that house or town. 15 Truly, I say to you, it shall be more tolerable on the day of judgment for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah than for that town.

We are called to preach that “the kingdom of heaven is at hand”. So what is the kingdom of heaven? The kingdom of heaven is the reign of God on earth through us. Each and every one of us is a creator of the kingdom of heaven. Every day we pray, every day we give without repayment and every day we fast for our Lord Jesus Christ, we help reveal a little more of the kingdom of heaven on earth. In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us that “You received without cost, give without cost.” God has given us so much. He gave us the bounty we receive each day. He gives us nourishment for our minds and our souls. He gave us His son who died for our sins. Now we are called to give back without any expectation of return. We are called to live and preach the gospel every day without any expectation of reward. In fact, we might even be ridiculed for preaching the word. The gospel may bring sorrow, but in the end you will experience the joy of eternal life with God. Our first call is to serve God in heaven. If we expect material gain for our efforts, how can we bond with God? We have been chosen to bear witness to the Gospels. Live them daily.

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, God of heaven on Earth,

Nourish me and give me strength to preach your Gospel.

Let me want not for your glory is all I seek.

Let me be a living testament to your Word.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

"Jesus gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out"

Gospel Reading: Matthew 10:1-7

1 And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every infirmity. 2 The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; 3 Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. 5 These twelve Jesus sent out, charging them, "Go nowhere among the Gentiles, and enter no town of the Samaritans, 6 but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And preach as you go, saying, `The kingdom of heaven is at hand.'

Do you hear the call of God to be his servant? He calls all of us to celebrate at his table because the kingdom of heaven is at hand. The kingdom of heaven is made up of all those people who hear the calling and willing submit their lives to God and the message of the Gospel. He called these twelve men to be the first twelve men of the New Covenant. These men were ordinary people such as you and I. They we not kings or rulers, but common people who gave up their life for Christ. These men answered faithfully to the grace of their calling. When Jesus walked this earth, He spread a message of hope and joy. He sent these new apostles out into the world to spread the good news. These men gave up everything they owned for the glory of God. When God calls us to serve, we must also be willing to faithfully commit to him. We must be willing to hear the calling and respond with our lives.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, I am your apostle.

Give the strength I need to spread your word.

Give me the wisdom I need to speak the truth.

May I always be a servant of your glory.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

"Never was anything like this seen in Israel"

Gospel Reading: Matthew 9:32-38

32 As they were going away, behold, a dumb demoniac was brought to him.33 And when the demon had been cast out, the dumb man spoke; and the crowds marveled, saying, "Never was anything like this seen in Israel." 34 But the Pharisees said, "He casts out demons by the prince of demons." 35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every infirmity. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; 38 pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest."

"The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few." In today's gospel (Matthew 9:32-38), Jesus is out wandering through Israel "healing every disease and every infirmity." Jesus was brought a dumb man who was plagued by a demon. His friends, realizing the pain and suffering that this man was going through, were in hope that Jesus could rid this man of these evils. Jesus cast out the demon and the man was able to speak. The crowds of people were astonished by this miracle. They commented, "Never was anything like this seen in Israel ." However, the Pharisees accused Jesus of "casting out demons by the prince of demons."

What was different about the people who witnessed and proclaimed and the Pharisees who accused. The people who rejoiced in the miracles of Jesus had faith in the power of Christ. Jesus gave the people hope that their sins and their afflictions could be healed. Because of their belief, Jesus set them free from the demons that tormented them. We too can go to Christ with our afflictions and our sins. Whenever we yield to the power of God with unconditional faith, he frees us from evil that binds us and the sins that darken our lives.

Jesus acknowledges the massive amount of evil in the world and the people who need help. He tells his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few." We too are called to heal, to reach out to those that are in need. Sometimes our needs are satisfied by taking care of the needs of others. By going out into fields, we too can give faith and hope to others. We can be there to set them free. Whenever we approach Christ with expectant faith, he will set us free from the things that keep us from the kingdom of heaven. But even greater is to approach Christ for the needs of others. If we set the needs of others before Christ, he will also answer those prayers. Be willing to lay your needs before the Eucharistic Table. We should offer up these inflictions and be willing to pray for forgiveness and healing.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, may my work shed light and free those that are caught in darkness.

Let me be an example of your compassion so others know love.

Give me the compassion to be your laborer so others may learn to love.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

Well I’m back from a week of Catholic Heart Work Camp. Unfortunately I was not able to get messages out from the place we were staying. Anyway, we’re back online.

“Take heart, your faith has made you well”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 9:18-26

18 While he was thus speaking to them, behold, a ruler came in and knelt before him, saying, "My daughter has just died; but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live." 19 And Jesus rose and followed him, with his disciples. 20 And behold, a woman who had suffered from a hemorrhage for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment; 21 for she said to herself, "If I only touch his garment, I shall be made well." 22 Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, "Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well." And instantly the woman was made well. 23 And when Jesus came to the ruler's house, and saw the flute players, and the crowd making a tumult, 24 he said, "Depart; for the girl is not dead but sleeping." And they laughed at him. 25 But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. 26 And the report of this went through all that district.

In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus performs two different miracles to help two different people. It was the compromising faith of the two that yielded Christ to answer their prayers. An earthly ruler of a local synagogue comes to Jesus and kneels before him. He tells Jesus that his daughter has died and says, “come and lay your hand on her, and she will live. " Touched by his faith, he gets up to help the ruler. But before he could come to the aide of the father, a woman who suffered from hemorrhages for twelve years reaches out to touch Jesus’ garment to receive his healing powers. Jesus turned to this woman and said, "Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well." Then Jesus went to the ruler’s house and was able to bring his daughter back to life. In both cases, it was the unconditional faith of the individuals that Jesus relied upon to help these individuals.

Just imagine, you’re a powerful Jewish ruler and you have to go to Jesus to ask for his help. Not only do the Jews dislike Jesus, they think he is a heretic and one who blasphemies the church. Not only did he go and ask Jesus, but he prostrated himself before Jesus in recognition of the Messiah, our Lord and savior. He does this knowing that his followers and friends were laughing at him. He did this knowing that his followers would not respect him anymore. Likewise, the woman that was hemorrhaging was thinking if she could just touch his garments that would be enough to cure her. So she reached out for him and Jesus, realizing her faith cures her of her aliment. Who do you reach out to help you when you need help. Are you willing to lay it all on the line for Christ.

Belief was not enough. Both people believed in Jesus, but Jesus says, “Take heart, your faith will make you well.” We too must have faith. We must not only believe in God, but we must have faith in his powers. Jesus opened his arms for these people and expressed the deepest form of love. He showed them a love that yielded hope and compassion, at the same time. We too can take our problems and troubles to God. We must be sincere and have faith in what he does. We must be willing to prostrate ourselves before him, even when our friends may make fun of us and laugh at us. It is your faith that will set you free. Through Jesus’ actions, we see the infinite love God extends to all of us. He gave this love freely to each person who needed it. This love was able to cure the sick and raise the dead; it was able to expel demons and heal sinners.

A Simple Prayer

Lord God, your love is all I need.

It heals my pains and makes me well.

Help me to give that same love to others so that I too can be healing.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon