Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?”

Gospel Reading: Luke 9:51-56

When the days for Jesus to be taken up were fulfilled, he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem, and he sent messengers ahead of him. On the way they entered a Samaritan village to prepare for his reception there, but they would not welcome him because the destination of his journey was Jerusalem. When the disciples James and John saw this they asked, “Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?” Jesus turned and rebuked them, and they journeyed to another village.

In a world filled with violence and revenge, today’s gospel reading has a very important message. On his journey to Jerusalem, Jesus decided to travel through Samaria, a territory which was not friendly to the Jews. Even more importantly, Jesus wanted to stay in a Samaritan village, but he was not welcomed because he was going to Jerusalem. In their anger, the two disciples wanted to bring down “fire from heaven” to destroy the village. How often do we hear the same retaliatory remarks because someone has not welcomed us? It is easy to respond with hatred and a desire to kill when we are not welcomed. This response is so often the first response when someone snubs or rejects us. Our first response is often one of violence.

Because someone rejects us, we want to respond with violence. But Jesus calls for us to be tolerant of others, to respect their views and to take a peaceful position. Jesus’ eyes were already set of Jerusalem and his final destination. He knew his journey would lead him to the cross and on that journey he would be rebuffed by not only Samaritans, but by his fellow Jews. He knew that he would be crucified for the very people who rejected him and still he went to the cross for their salvation. It was the love of Christ for all of man that allowed him to be tolerant of the hatred. When we are rejected, we too must keep our eyes on the cross. We must not respond with violence, but with love and compassion. We must understand that we too are journeying to Jerusalem and the cross. If we retaliate with fire, we will lose our way.

A Simple Prayer

Lord God in Heaven, give me the strength to love those who do not love me.

Give me the strength to reach out with compassion for those who snub me.

Help me to stay the journey so I do not lose sight of the cross.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”

Gospel Reading: John 1:47-51

Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Here is a true child of Israel. There is no duplicity in him.” Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”

In today's gospel reading, an Nathanael is questioning whether Jesus is truly the Son of God. In the preceding passage, Nathanael is rather obstinate to Jesus when Nathanael says to him, "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" Not only did he question Jesus' authenticity, he kind of smacked him a little for being from the other side of tracks. There are times in our life when we too can become skeptical about the Son of God. We might ask the question, "Was He real?" Did Jesus really die on the cross? Did He rise from the dead? If we question, then how do we find the faith to believe? Instead of arguing with Nathanael, Philip invites him to "come and see" Jesus and to meet Jesus. He knew that a personal encounter with Jesus would open his heart. There is nothing I can say to make you believe and there is nothing I can do to make you have faith. You must "come and see." Jesus invites us every Sunday to His alter to "come and see" the miracle of the Eucharist. We also witness His great works in the miracles we see everyday around us. He also invites us to come and see the Gospels. Think of the retreats that you attended and how you felt after the retreat. You probably didn't want to go to the retreat, but afterwards your heart was opened. Jesus opened Nathanael's heart so he could witness Christ. If we "come and see" Christ, He too will open our hearts. Once our hearts are open, the Kingdom of heaven will flow in. He will give us faith.

A Simple Prayer

God I come and see the goodness of the Lord.

Open my heart and fill it with the Holy Spirit so I do not doubt.

Give me the strength to bring people to you so they can come and see.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“But who do you say that I am?”

Gospel Reading: Luke 9:18-22

Once when Jesus was praying in solitude, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” They said in reply, “John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, ‘One of the ancient prophets has arisen.’” Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said in reply, “The Christ of God.” He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone. He said, “The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”

Christ asks us to answer a simple question; “Who do you say that I am?” How do you respond to this question. Peter responds, “The Christ of God.” In this passage, we see that the apostles finally realize who Jesus is. They identify him as the priest, king and profit to all of mankind. It was by the faith placed in Peter by God that Peter recognized who Jesus was. No one on earth could have given him this faith. It had to come from God. We too are given that same faith, but do you see Jesus through the eyes of your faith? Do you see Christ in your daily life? To see Christ, one must have faith. Faith is something that needs to exercised. And from time to time, our faith may be challenged and put to the test.

This gospel goes beyond just having faith, this readings was also a prophecy of Jesus’ upcoming passion and death. Jesus tells them that, “The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.” He tells his disciples this so they can be prepared for what lies ahead. Jesus lets them know that he must suffer before he can be truly glorified. Jesus freely accepted his fate and embraced what was going to happen to him. We all must face suffering in our lives just as Jesus did when he was crucified on the cross. We can either allow the suffering to control our lives and we can become overwhelmed with it or we can endure the suffering as a sacrifice to God in Heaven. On the cross Jesus defeated Satan and the powers of sin. Jesus’ own suffering and death on the cross gave us eternal life and freedom from the slavery of sin. Suffering provides the same grace for us. Through the grace of the Holy Spirit we can endure the suffering. Our knowledge of Christ the Redeemer encourages us to carry our cross and to live the gospels. Do not let suffering lead you from God, but closer to God. Let the suffering strength your faith in Christ. “Who do you say I am?”

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus, you are my light and my salvation.

Take my life and make it yours now and forever.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Who then is this about whom I hear such things?”

Gospel Reading: Luke 9:7-9

Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, “John has been raised from the dead”; others were saying, “Elijah has appeared”; still others, “One of the ancient prophets has arisen.” But Herod said, “John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” And he kept trying to see him.

Do you desire to find God? If so, why? That may seem like a weird question, but it is a very important question. In today’s Gospel reading, Herod the tetrarch heard about the miracles and healings that Jesus had preformed and “he kept trying to see him.” Unfortunately, his desire to seek out Jesus was not to form a relationship with him but to satisfy his curiosity. Herod had the same desire and curiosity to meet John the Baptist, but after he met him, he killed him to please others in his family. His seeking out John the Baptist was to demonstrate his own power. Who is it that you seek to know? Do you gravitate toward people of fame, power and wealth or do you seek to know God and people of God? At school or work, do you hang with people because it will elevate your status in this earthly society? It is so easy to seek out the popular crowd and to be with them. However, does this crowd lead one toward Christ or away from Christ? If you want to be united with God, then you should seek out people who are godly people. We should associate ourselves with people who express God’s love and truth. You, yourselves should be an expression of God’s compassion towards others. Allow the grace of God to fill you with the faith and courage one needs to follow the godly crowd and not necessarily the popular crowd. We should seek out the meek, the poor, the merciful, the hungry for these are the people who will inherit the Kingdom of God. We should seek out those who also seek God. Seeking these people is the same as seeking out the Kingdom of Heaven.

A Simple Prayer

Heavenly Father, it is you that seek.

I seek you not for your power, but for your grace and mercy.

I seek you not for your popularity, but because you are the source of new life.

May I be godly and lead others to you.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Jesus sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 9:1-6

Jesus summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. He said to them, “Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money, and let no one take a second tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there and leave from there. And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them.” Then they set out and went from village to village proclaiming the Good News and curing diseases everywhere.

In today’s Gospel reading, Christ empowers the Twelve to go out into the world and proclaim the Good News about the Kingdom of Heaven. He sent them not only to proclaim the Word, but also to heal the sick. Christ not only empowered the Twelve, has also empowered all the generations to come to do the same. We have all been given special graces of the Holy Spirit through our baptism and we are re-nourished through the power of the Eucharist to continue the mission of Christ in this world. The Word of God has the ability to change your life and to set you free from the pain and suffering. Through the Gospel we find salvation and eternal life. We defeat death and sickness, pain and suffering for the glory of God in heaven. We find salvation from sickness, heartache and every earthly infliction. God gave us the same power he gave to the original Twelve. We too can change the world by preaching the gospel not only in words, but in our actions. We become the beacon of light which leads other to the narrow gate to eternal life. However, Jesus gives his disciples very specific instructions, “Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money, and let no one take a second tunic.” He tells the Twelve that to truly preach the Gospel, they must separate themselves from the earthly treasures that keep us from seeing Christ in the world and finding the Kingdom of God. We must release the burdens which tie us to earth and keep us from heaven. How can we ask others to sacrifice if we are not willing to sacrifice ourselves. The more earthly treasures we give up, the more room we make for Christ in our lives. If our life is filled with new cars, X Box, electronic gadgets and new clothes, how can we find space for Christ. Do you set aside time for others in need? Do you set aside time for your family and friends? Do you set aside time for Christ?

A Simple Prayer

Lord God, you gave me the power to proclaim the gospel.

Give me the power to use these gifts to bring others to your table.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 8:19-21

The mother of Jesus and his brothers came to him but were unable to join him because of the crowd. He was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside and they wish to see you.” He said to them in reply, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”

In today’s gospel, it might appear that Jesus is rebuking his family. His family comes to see him but because of the crowds they cannot get to him. He is told of their desire to see him, but Jesus responds, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.” There is no doubt that Jesus loved his mother very much, but today’s message helps us understand the depth of the relationship we should seek with God. He is calling all of us to be one of his siblings. God never intended humans to be alone. In the beginning when God created man and he was alone, God saw that was not good and Adam was lonely. To respond to this solitude, God created a companion for Adam. Man formed a relationship with woman. In today’s gospel, God is telling us that while this relationship is important, your relationship with God is more important. Only through your relationship with God can you elevate your earthly relationships. All relationships should include the communion with God.

Being a good Christian is more than following the Ten Commandments, it is about establishing a relationship with God. Today’s gospel challenges us to take the relationship deeper by elevating the importance of that relationship. By making your relationship with God the most important relationship, we commit to a relationship of love. Any relationship founded on true love includes trust, commitment, loyalty, kindness and compassion. If we have this type of relationship with God, it will flow down into our other relationships. It will become the foundation for all relationships we form on earth. Every relationship you form on earth should mirror your relationship with God. Your relationship with other men and women should be Christ centered. The relationship should mirror the relationship you would have with Christ.

A Simple Prayer

My Heavenly Father, I love you and cherish you.

I desire a relationship with you.

May all my relationships mirror the one you desire from me.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lamp stand so that those who enter may see the light.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 8:16-18

Jesus said to the crowd: “No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lamp stand so that those who enter may see the light. For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light. Take care, then, how you hear. To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.”

In today’s Gospel, we hear the story about the parable of the lamp. In the days of Jesus, lamps were the only means to see in the darkness. If you needed to work at night, you would need a lamp to get around. God gives each of us many graces and gifts which help define who we are. These graces help light up the darkness not only in our own lives but in those around us. Our lamp helps us reveal who we are. Do you allow you gifts and talents to be revealed to others? Jesus tells us, “For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light.” These truths that we have about us will someday be revealed no matter how much we try to hide them. God is all knowing and knows what we try to hide. You cannot keep anything away from him. This not only includes the gifts which we have been given, but also the sins which darkens your soul. You should use the light of God to illuminate and reveal those things which prevent you from journeying to God. Do not cover up the light, but let it shine bright for others to see. Your light is a gift, reveal it to others so that those who enter may see the light.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, you are the Light of World.

Fill my heart and my soul with the wisdom and truth of the light.

May your light guide eliminate the darkness in my life,

And lead me to the Kingdom of Heaven.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 8:1-3

Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God. Accompanying him were the Twelve and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their resources.

Jesus’ mission was to spread the good news of the Kingdom of God; to open our eyes and our ears to the message of our Father in heaven. So often we hear the stories of the twelve men who dedicated their lives to God. But in addition to the Twelve, Jesus was joined by a number of women who dedicated their lives to his mission. They not only gave of their time but they gave from their coffers. All of these people heard the call to follow Jesus. Both men and women were called to follow Christ. He called the rich and the poor, the clean and the unclean. These people not only dedicated their lives, they dedicated their resources to provide the support for Christ on his mission. When Christ calls us to spread the good news, He is not only calling us to bring ourselves, we must be willing to bring all our resources to help bring people to Christ. These women dedicated their lives and their resources to support the mission of Christ. We must be willing to commit everything to the mission of God because nothing is more important than bringing forth the Kingdom. We must remember that everything we have, all our riches, all our treasures are a gift from God. How we use those treasures is how we thank God for giving them to us.

A Simple Prayer

Lord God, I hear your calling.

May my soul be set on fire so I have the strength give everything I own.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 7:36-50

A certain Pharisee invited Jesus to dine with him, and he entered the Pharisee’s house and reclined at table. Now there was a sinful woman in the city who learned that he was at table in the house of the Pharisee. Bringing an alabaster flask of ointment, she stood behind him at his feet weeping and began to bathe his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them, and anointed them with the ointment. When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, that she is a sinner.” Jesus said to him in reply, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” “Tell me, teacher,” he said. “Two people were in debt to a certain creditor; one owed five hundred days’ wages and the other owed fifty. Since they were unable to repay the debt, he forgave it for both. Which of them will love him more?” Simon said in reply, “The one, I suppose, whose larger debt was forgiven.” He said to him, “You have judged rightly.” Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? When I entered your house, you did not give me water for my feet, but she has bathed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but she has not ceased kissing my feet since the time I entered. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she anointed my feet with ointment. So I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; hence, she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little.” He said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” The others at table said to themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” But he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

In today’s gospel reading, Jesus teaches a very important lesson about forgiveness. A Jewish Rabbi or Pharisee invites Jesus to have dinner with him. When he arrives, a woman, who is described as a sinner or prostitute, greets him with special reverence. “She stood behind him at his feet weeping and began to bathe his feet with her tears.” The Pharisee was rather indignant at what he saw. He said to Jesus, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, that she is a sinner.” Jesus responds to the Pharisee in a parable about to debtors who cannot repay their debt. One who owes 50 days pay and the other owes 500. In this story, we have a Rabbi who is thought to be a righteous man and a woman who is likely a prostitute. Both are sinners. The woman falls on her knees and praises Jesus’ mercy yet the Pharisee does not even greet him with a simple kiss. It is obvious that the grace of God has filled the woman with repentant sorrow. She falls to his feet, she is crying with resentment for her sins and she anoints Jesus with precious perfumes. She disgusts the Pharisee who would not ever associate himself with such a woman. He also chastises Christ for allowing this woman to come near him. So who loves Jesus more, the rabbi or the prostitute? The rabbi did not even greet Jesus with the customary greeting yet the woman used precious oil which would have been extremely valuable. The real message here is that the woman, through her own humility, fell prostate at his feet and showed true love and compassion for Christ. Because of this demonstration, Jesus says, “So I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; hence, she has shown great love. But the one to whom little is forgiven, loves little.” We are all sinners. Are you willing to fall prostrate before him and ask for true forgiveness? Do you love him enough to spend the valuable perfume to anoint him? Do you shed tears over your sins? Do you open yourself to the grace of God? We can take the position of the Pharisee and reject God’s love or we can take the position of the sinner and accept God’s love. When you take time to examine your conscience and evaluate your sins, you are at the feet of Christ. It is through the humility of reconciliation that we shed the tears that open us up to true forgiveness. It is through our faith, Christ’s grace and love, that we are saved.

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, I fall to your feet.

A weep in sorrow because I am a sinner.

Let me anoint you with my tears and my sorrows.

I give these things up to you my Lord so I can be filled with your grace.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“To what shall I compare the people of this generation?”

Gospel Reading: Luke 7:31-35 Jesus said to the crowds: “To what shall I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? They are like children who sit in the marketplace and call to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, but you did not dance. We sang a dirge, but you did not weep.’ For John the Baptist came neither eating food nor drinking wine, and you said, ‘He is possessed by a demon.’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking and you said, ‘Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is vindicated by all her children.”

When Jesus spoke to his disciples, his message must have fallen on deaf ears. In today’s Gospel, Jesus is disappointed at the Israelites because they do not get excited about the message that was delivered by John the Baptist nor himself. They ignored the message that was being delivered. Can you imagine Jesus coming and speaking to you and your response is to yawn in boredom? You turn and walk away. To what shall he compare the people of today. Can you image Jesus giving one of his sermons and you fall asleep? Can you image him coming and getting mad at him because he celebrates with sinners, beggars and prostitutes? The Israelites were “bored” with Jesus’ message. They did not want to hear what he had to say. They yawned at him and made up excuses not to be with him. Is this our reaction when we hear Jesus? Do you try to avoid going to be with God? Are you excited to be able to celebrate the Eucharist or do you makeup excuses to miss Mass? Anytime you have the opportunity to engage the Word, whether through formation, fellowship, adoration, or reconciliation, you should dance with joy that you have the opportunity to commune with God. Jesus gave us the sacraments show we could have a life-long encounter with Christ. When we meet Christ in the sacraments, we should praise God all the same fanfare we celebrate New Year’s. The Israelites were “bored” because they could not see the greatness of the Lord. It is out of our blindness that we cannot see the celebration which Christ has brought to us. We let the devil enter the picture to divert us from the true happiness we should experience when we are with Christ. God is piping us a beautiful song, we should stand and dance with the Lord. We should get lost in his celebration.

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus, I want to hear your music and celebrate,

May the good news of gospel fill my heart with joy and love

So I may serve you here on Earth.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“A great prophet has arisen in our midst.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 7:11-17 Jesus journeyed to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd accompanied him. As he drew near to the gate of the city, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the city was with her. When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, “Do not weep.” He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all, and they glorified God, exclaiming, “A great prophet has arisen in our midst,” and “God has visited his people.” This report about him spread through the whole of Judea and in all the surrounding region.

How many times have we faced misfortune. Sorrow overcomes us and it becomes difficult to coup with the grief. Many of us have recently faced this issue after Hurricane Ike passed through. Our lives have been disrupted and worry begin as we try to put back together our lives. Jesus responds to our needs and helps us through our grief and our fears. In today’s Gospel, Jesus reached out to the lady who lost her son. The Gospel says that Jesus was “moved with pity.” As we suffer in life, Jesus feels our grief and reaches out to help us. Jesus does not like us to have sorrow in our lives. If we reach out to Christ, he will comfort us. He will relieve the death in our lives and fill us with life. We must be willing to look to him for our security. He will restore our lives. Through him we will restore our lives.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, you are the life of the world.

Through you we find comfort and security.

Give me the strength to offer up my suffering.

Give me the strength to find security in you touch.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

I hope you can find comfort in your life in spite of the events which have just occurred. I pray that you and your family are safe and secure.

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters of Christ

“Woman, behold, your son.”

Gospel Reading: John 19:25-27

Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.

Today’s gospel reading is rather short, but extremely comforting. Especially after what has just occurred in our community. Jesus refers to the “disciple there whom he loved.” Many scholars have suggested that Christ’s church is his beloved disciple. Therefore, in today’s gospel reading, Jesus would be speaking directly to us from cross. Jesus looks down upon us to provide what we need to make it through the situation. Not only is he there to help us, but he sends his mother to our side. The best source of love and compassion is the love and compassion of a mother. Jesus gives us his mother to help us in our time of need to reach out and comfort us. When Mary has appeared to her children, she has always been comforting with extreme compassion. As we reflect on the hurricane which just passed, we should thank the blessed mother for protecting us and holding us through the storm.

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, through the cross we have found the door which leads to eternal life.

You gave us your life and now you give us your mother to hold us and comfort us.

May my life be worthy of the sacrifice which you made for me.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“To you who hear I say, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 6:27-38 Jesus said to his disciples: “To you who hear I say, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. To the person who strikes you on one cheek, offer the other one as well, and from the person who takes your cloak, do not withhold even your tunic. Give to everyone who asks of you, and from the one who takes what is yours do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you. For if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do the same. If you lend money to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, and get back the same amount. But rather, love your enemies and do good to them, and lend expecting nothing back; then your reward will be great and you will be children of the Most High, for he himself is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as also your Father is merciful. “Stop judging and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven. Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.”

Today’s Gospel reading is very fitting on the anniversary of 9/11. Jesus tells us that we must be compassionate, not to our friends but to our enemies. We are called not only to love our enemies but to pray for and bless them in the name of God. This may be the most difficult thing the Christ asked us to do. When we are born, God gave us the grace to love and to hope. He does not give us the grace to hate. We learn to hate from the world around us. How much better this world would be if we could abolish hatred. Hatred leads to retaliation and retaliation leads to more hatred. Unless we break the cycle, hatred will continue to grow. Christ tells us that we must be willing to give up everything we own to our neighbor, we must be willing to give them the clothes from our back and all the money that we have in hopes that this will lead to peace. How we treat our enemies is a true testament to our treatment of Christ. It is easy to love those who love you, it is a true symbol of character to love those who hate you. Christ tells us “love your enemies and do good to them, and lend expecting nothing back; then your reward will be great and you will be children of the Most High, for he himself is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked.” Who are the kind and the ungrateful? We are. No matter what we do, our Father in heaven always loves us. He cherishes us and pours out his unconditional love for us. If we are to find the path to heaven, then we must line it with prayers and blessing for those we have learned to hate. The message is simple, “Stop judging and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven. Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. Today, say special prayer for your enemies and most importantly say a prayer for those who hate the US that we can become brothers and sisters in Christ.

A Simple Prayer

Lord God, you are the master of the world.

You gave me the gifts of love and the hope, but I have learned to hate.

Help me abolish hatred in my life so that I may help end hatred in the world.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Blessed are you who are poor, for the Kingdom of God is yours.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 6:20-26 Raising his eyes toward his disciples Jesus said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for the Kingdom of God is yours. Blessed are you who are now hungry, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who are now weeping, for you will laugh. Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude and insult you, and denounce your name as evil on account of the Son of Man. Rejoice and leap for joy on that day! Behold, your reward will be great in heaven. For their ancestors treated the prophets in the same way. But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. But woe to you who are filled now, for you will be hungry. Woe to you who laugh now, for you will grieve and weep. Woe to you when all speak well of you, for their ancestors treated the false prophets in this way.”

Today's message is quite clear, those that suffer on earth will be rewarded in the Kingdom of God. Those who sacrifice everything for God and give up all the earthly items will find a special joy in heaven. I have heard many a preacher say that someone must be blessed because they are rich or that they have a good job. Not that these people cannot be blessed, but this implies that those who have nothing are being punished by God. Today’s gospel reading tells us something quite different. The truly blessed people are those who have found God and have absolutely nothing. Those are the people who one would expect to be the soured at their position in society. Christ tells us that if you are poor on earth, you will be rich in heaven; or, if you had a sad life on earth, you will have a very happy life in heaven. We will all suffer and experience some degree of pain, suffering, sickness, and even death. Some people appear to be burdened with an abundance of pain and suffering. At times we may think that a dark cloud is just sitting over our head. Why does God allow us to suffer? Why must people be poor and homeless? We are called to have faith in God and offer this suffering to him. This offering transcends earthly happiness and allows us to reach a spiritual happiness in the kingdom of heaven. We have all seen people who absolutely nothing, yet they laugh and have fun. They are content with what God has given them and they take satisfaction in their simple lives. Why are they not sad? The word Beatitude literally means happiness. True happiness comes from the suffering. Are you really happy if you are given everything? Do we not get bored with material things to only want more? Then we become bored with this stuff and want even more. Is that really happiness? How long does that brand new IPod or Xbox keep you happy? True happiness is found in the Beatitudes. This message is really trying telling us that the poor are not held captive to material things and therefore see the things that bring true happiness. They can see the Kingdom of God because their site is not blinded by greed for earthly materials. To find true happiness in heaven, we will need to empty our lives of those things that prevent us from seeing God. This is why we are asked to fast, pray and give alms. During this time, we separate ourselves from the earthly things and allow our souls to unite with God in Heaven. These are things we typically do during lent; however, we are called to live Lent year round, not just during the Lenten season.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, I desire to find your happiness,

Give me the strength to separate myself from the earthly things that keep me from you.

I hunger for your love.

May my suffering allow me to see you more clearly.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Everyone in the crowd sought to touch him because power came forth from him and healed them all.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 6:12-19 Jesus departed to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God. When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named Apostles: Simon, whom he named Peter, and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called a Zealot, and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor. And he came down with them and stood on a stretch of level ground. A great crowd of his disciples and a large number of the people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the coastal region of Tyre and Sidon came to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and even those who were tormented by unclean spirits were cured. Everyone in the crowd sought to touch him because power came forth from him and healed them all.

In today’s gospel reading, we see that Jesus has called forth from his disciples a group of twelve. Jesus spends all night in prayer with His Father in heaven before selecting the twelve men who would become the first leaders of the Catholic Church. It says that he named them his Apostles. The word apostle means somebody who tries to persuade others to share in an idea or cause. These twelve men became the chief spokesperson for Christ. You would think that he would call forth the rich and the wealthy. But instead he calls forth the ordinary, the poor, laborers and fisherman to be his Apostles. The job of the twelve was to go forth and invite the people of Israel to be Disciples of Christ. Eventually the twelve would go forth beyond Israel and bring Christ to the entire world. These twelve Apostles were given the gift of the Holy Spirit to help them form the church and grow it into the vessel which it has become today. These twelve men became the very foundation from which the church was built. However, the church is not complete. We too are called to be disciples of Christ. He calls us by name to help spread the Word of God to the world. We are all graced with the Holy Spirit to lay down our worldly belonging and sacrifice the comfort of our homes to go out bring others to his banquet. As we are filled with the Eucharist, we are called to bring others to Christ so that they too can be filled with the body and blood of Christ. It is easy to say “I can’t,” but God gives us the strength to say “I will” through the gifts of the Holy Spirit. If we seek Christ, we can be healed of the things that torment us. Seek Christ and touch him for the power will come forth to strengthen you and heal you.

A Simple Prayer

Most heavenly Father, I reach out to you for your healing power.

Inflame my heart so I can go out and spread the Word of God.

I am here Lord, take my life and do with it as you will.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“The angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home.”

Gospel Reading: Matthew 1:1-16, 18-23 The Book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham became the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers. Judah became the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar. Perez became the father of Hezron, Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab. Amminadab became the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon, Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab. Boaz became the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth. Obed became the father of Jesse, Jesse the father of David the king. David became the father of Solomon, whose mother had been the wife of Uriah. Solomon became the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asaph. Asaph became the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, Joram the father of Uzziah. Uzziah became the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah. Hezekiah became the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amos, Amos the father of Josiah. Josiah became the father of Jechoniah and his brothers at the time of the Babylonian exile. After the Babylonian exile, Jechoniah became the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, Zerubbabel the father of Abiud. Abiud became the father of Eliakim, Eliakim the father of Azor, Azor the father of Zadok. Zadok became the father of Achim, Achim the father of Eliud, Eliud the father of Eleazar. Eleazar became the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ. Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.”

In today’s Gospel reading, we hear both the genealogy of Christ and the commitment of Joseph. So why do we need to know our genealogy? It helps us understand who we are and where we come from. We hear that Jesus is a direct descendant of Abraham, the Father of God’s chosen people and of the house of David, the King of Israel. This genealogy fulfills the Old Testament scriptures which promised that a descendant of the house of David would come to save us from our enemies. The linage presented in Matthew confirms that Christ is the promised Messiah, the Son of Man sent to save us. But it is not only about knowing where we come from, it is also about knowing that God has called us to do special things. Joseph has just found out that Mary is pregnant with Jesus and being a just man and not wanting to shame Mary, he resolves to divorce her quietly. But an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” When he woke up he did as he was commanded by the angel. This story has two great messages. The first message is the willingness of Joseph to obey the will of God. His fiancé is pregnant and they are not married. How embarrassing that would be for his future wife to be pregnant and they are not married. Yet Joseph listened and obeyed the angel of God. The second message, which is more subtle in this Gospel reading, is the faith and trust of Mary. Mary also has to trust in God and have faith that he will take care of her and provide for her. In the time of Christ, Mary would likely have been stoned or cast out of the community. This was a huge commitment by both. Mary, through the power of the Holy Spirit, was able to go to Joseph and trust that he would be there to take care of her.

We too are called to be obedient to the will of God no matter what he asks us to do, no matter how embarrassing, and no matter how uncertain the outcome. The Holy Spirit comes down upon us and gives us many gifts wrapped in strange packaging. We are called to use those gifts to spread the word of God, to make way for the Kingdom of God. We are also called to have great trust and faith in God. We need to trust that he knows what he is doing. In our daily lives, it is so easy to get caught up in the materialistic aspects of “All I want is…” when I should be saying yes to the angel of God when he calls. We should be willing to take the time to reflect on the gifts which God has given us and give him thanks and praise for these gifts are given to us freely without any expectations of return. We should reflect on our talents which were given to us by God. We should decide whether we are using our gifts how God intended us to us them. We must be willing to sacrifice the material gifts that we receive for the spiritual gifts which are wrapped up in the paper of the Holy Spirit. We should celebrate the family that we have and blessing that we were given. We should celebrate the gift of Christ in our lives. Once we accept these gifts from God, we can truly appreciate the other material gifts which we receive.

A Simple Prayer

God, you give me more graces than I deserve. Give me the strength to use those gifts to your satisfaction.

May I have the obedience of Joseph and the faith of Mary to use the gifts which you have given me.

Your son was the greatest gift of all for he came to forgive us our sins; may I also forgive those who sinned against me.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“But the days will come, and when the bridegroom is taken away from them, then they will fast in those days.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 5:33-39

The scribes and Pharisees said to Jesus, “The disciples of John the Baptist fast often and offer prayers, and the disciples of the Pharisees do the same; but yours eat and drink.” Jesus answered them, “Can you make the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, and when the bridegroom is taken away from them, then they will fast in those days.” And he also told them a parable. “No one tears a piece from a new cloak to patch an old one. Otherwise, he will tear the new and the piece from it will not match the old cloak. Likewise, no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the new wine will burst the skins, and it will be spilled, and the skins will be ruined. Rather, new wine must be poured into fresh wineskins. And no one who has been drinking old wine desires new, for he says, ‘The old is good.’”

In today’s gospel reading, Jesus is being challenged by the scribes and the Pharisees. These people were generally very legalistic and believed in the literal meaning of law. They said to Jesus, “The disciples of John fast often and offer prayers, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours eat and drink.” Fasting was a major part of the Jewish lifestyle so why was Jesus letting his disciples avoid fasting? Jesus replied, “Can you make wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days.” So what is Jesus really trying to tell the disciples? The disciples of Jesus were feasting in the presence of Christ. Now was not the time to fast, but the time to celebrate because in the near future he was going to be taken away from them. Jesus explains this in a parable about placing new wine in old wine skins. If you place new wine in old skins, the fermenting wine will cause the wine skin to burst. New wine needs to be placed in new skins. Jesus is trying to explain to the disciples that there are times when old traditions are appropriate and times when we need to let the new traditions begin. This relationship/discipleship with Jesus was new and exciting. Jesus filled them with the Holy Spirit and they were alive. Why would you fast when you’re feasting on the Holy Spirit? While there is nothing wrong with old traditions; new traditions can be just as rewarding. This also goes for fasting and feasting; there is a time to fast and a time feast. When we walk with Christ we are feasting in his presence, but when we need to atone for our sins, it is a time to fast.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, fill me with the Holy Spirit so I can feast in your presence.

Help me to find your presence in my prayers and my fasting.

May you become a tradition in my life which frees me from the bonds on sin.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 5:1-11

1 While the crowd was pressing in on Jesus and listening to the word of God, he was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret. 2 He saw two boats there alongside the lake; the fishermen had disembarked and were washing their nets. 3 Getting into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, he asked him to put out a short distance from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. 4 After he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch." 5 Simon said in reply, "Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command I will lower the nets." 6 When they had done this, they caught a great number of fish and their nets were tearing. 7 They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come to help them. They came and filled both boats so that they were in danger of sinking. 8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at the knees of Jesus and said, "Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man." 9 For astonishment at the catch of fish they had made seized him and all those with him, 10 and likewise James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners of Simon. Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men." 11 When they brought their boats to the shore, they left everything and followed him.

Today’s gospel reading tells the story of the first apostles, Simon, James and John. After preaching to the people along the Sea of Galilee, Jesus commands Simon to put his nets out into deep water. Peter’s first response was denial and doubt, “Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing!” But reluctantly he obeys Jesus. The net is lowered and becomes so full that the net is breaking at the seams. The nets were so full that Simon needed help to bring the catch in. Finally, when the catch is brought into the boats, the boats are so full that they began to sink. In his amazement, Simon falls to his knees and says, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” And Jesus’ replied “Do not be afraid; henceforth you will be catching men.”

How often does God call us into service, yet we find excuses to ignore him. When we encounter Christ in our lives and He asks us to be His servant, our first response is to reject his request either out of fear, insecurity or doubt. But once we abandon our fear and follow His commands, we find that our reward is more abundant than we could imagine. Our nets are full and we need help bringing in our catch. At that point, we are so excited about the catch that we do not realize that our boat is on the verge of sinking because we do not know how to handle this new fragile faith. We do not know how to handle this new found fulfillment. Our faith is so fragile. It is easy to get discouraged either because you have been overloaded or because you do not know how to handle the cross you have been given. But if you follow Christ, He will take care of you. Even though the boats were overload, they made it safely to shore. He will make sure that your boat stays afloat even in troubled waters. The more we grow in faith; the easier it is to follow Christ. But not only must we follow Christ, we are asked to lead others to his way. We are call to be “fishers of men.”

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, fill my heart with your compassion and love.

May I learn to use this love and compassion to lead others to you.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“He laid his hands on each of them and cured them.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 4:38-44

38 After he left the synagogue, he entered the house of Simon. Simon's mother-in-law was afflicted with a severe fever, and they interceded with him about her. 39 He stood over her, rebuked the fever, and it left her. She got up immediately and waited on them. 40 At sunset, all who had people sick with various diseases brought them to him. He laid his hands on each of them and cured them. 41 And demons also came out from many, shouting, "You are the Son of God." But he rebuked them and did not allow them to speak because they knew that he was the Messiah. 42 At daybreak, Jesus left and went to a deserted place. The crowds went looking for him, and when they came to him, they tried to prevent him from leaving them. 43 But he said to them, "To the other towns also I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God, because for this purpose I have been sent." 44 And he was preaching in the synagogues of Judea.

In today’s gospel reading, Jesus arrives at Simon Peter’s Mother-in-Law’s house to find her sick with a very high fever. Jesus laid His hands on her and she was instantly cured. Once cured, she was able to immediately get up and served them. Once the community heard this, they brought their sick to Jesus and He cured them also. In this story we see the unwavering compassion of Jesus for those who are ailing or those who call out for His help. The gospel story says that Jesus rebuked the fever and she was cured instantly. She was so completely cured that she was able to get up and serve them. I know that when I recover from a cold or fever, I am so drained that the last thing I want to do is go and do chores or labor.

Jesus’ healing power not only cast out the fever, it revitalized her with the energy to serve others. Jesus’ power is not only healing, it is revitalizing. It not only frees us from the things that cripple us, it also gives us the strength to live and to serve. Jesus is the ultimate super drug, antibiotic, and vitamin all rolled into one. Jesus not only cured the sick, he dispelled the demons that plagued their souls. He cured both the body and the soul. The people were so overwhelmed with joy that they sought out Jesus. This is the best example of the healing power of reconciliation. If you seek God’s help through prayer and reconciliation, He will cast out the demons that keep you from the Kingdom of God. Once these barriers are removed, you are then energized to do the work of the Lord. This is the same energy you feel at the end of a retreat or after receiving communion. Your body is filled with the Holy Spirit and you feel revitalized to live in Christ. You desire to be with Christ. This is the same feeling that the people felt after Jesus laid his hands on them. This is also the feeling you will get after participating in reconciliation. The burden of your sins is removed from your shoulders and now this energy can be redirected at love and serving instead of fighting the sin.

A Simple Prayer

Lord Father, I am a sinner in bondage.

I have a fever which afflicts my body.

If you lay yours hands will be freed from sin to do your service.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“I know who you are--the Holy One of God!”

Gospel Reading: Luke 4:31-37

31 Jesus then went down to Capernaum, a town of Galilee. He taught them on the Sabbath, 32 and they were astonished at his teaching because he spoke with authority. 33 In the synagogue there was a man with the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out in a loud voice, 34 "Ha! What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are--the Holy One of God!" 35 Jesus rebuked him and said, "Be quiet! Come out of him!" Then the demon threw the man down in front of them and came out of him without doing him any harm. 36 They were all amazed and said to one another, "What is there about his word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out." 37 And news of him spread everywhere in the surrounding region.

Who has control over your life? In today’s gospel, Jesus is teaching his disciples in a synagogue in Capernaum when a man possessed by an unclean spirit confronted Jesus. This man’s life was controlled by an unclean spirit. Jesus demonstrated his power over evil. At his command, the demon left the man. This passage, while very short, has a number of messages. First and foremost, we should understand that the demon knew that Jesus was the “Holy One” the Son of God. Not only did he know Jesus, he knew that Jesus had the supreme authority to cast him out. Jesus did not have to call anybody else to come to his rescue or to lend him aid. It was by his own authority alone that the demon was cast out of this man. The word of Jesus was the word of God because Jesus was the Word made flesh.

Secondly, this passage tells us that Christ has the power to cleanse our life of unclean spirits. If we approach Christ, He can empty our lives of those things which burden us or weigh us down. He has the power to remove Satan from our lives. Christ speaks with authority. He speaks with the ability to drive out the enemy in our lives. We only need to approach him. The Word of God has the power to purify our souls and cleanse us and make us worthy for the kingdom of God.

I assume that there is no question that Jesus is almighty and all powerful and that he is the “Holy One”, but do you recognize Christ when he is calling you? What do you do when Christ calls your name? Do you ignore his call? How can you ignore the call of God when even the lowly demon obeyed him? God calls us to his side, to give up and be freed from sin. He calls us to abandon our lives for his. We should be submissive to God and heed his call. We should come running to his altar with us as the sacrifice. We should be willing to sacrifice our life for him. We should accept the supremacy of God and obey his commands. We should become the message which God calls forth.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, you are the supreme ruler,

You are God of all.

Call my name and I will come to be your servant

For your word is my authority.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon