Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ

Today is the Feast Day for Saints Simon and Jude, the Apostles.

Gospel Reading: Luke 6:12-16

Jesus went up 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.

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 spokespersons for Christ. You would think that Christ 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 serve as emissaries invested with Christ’s royal and priestly authority. These twelve men are the father figures of the renewed kingdom of Israel. They become the first leaders of the church. Eventually the twelve 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.

The original disciples and the twelve apostles do not make the complete church. The church is evolutionary and grows from this original group. Now we 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 and to go out to bring others to his banquet. As we are nourished with the manna from heaven, 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. Christ invites us to “come” to the table. To come to the table, to come to his church, to be his disciple requires action on your part. You must want to do his will. Come to the table and join his disciples.

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 at your table 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:

“Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough.”

Gospel Reading Luke 13:22-30

Jesus passed through towns and villages, teaching as he went and making his way to Jerusalem. Someone asked him, “Lord, will only a few people be saved?” He answered them, “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough. After the master of the house has arisen and locked the door, then will you stand outside knocking and saying, ‘Lord, open the door for us.’ He will say to you in reply, ‘I do not know where you are from.’ And you will say, ‘We ate and drank in your company and you taught in our streets.’ Then he will say to you, ‘I do not know where you are from. Depart from me, all you evildoers!’ And there will be wailing and grinding of teeth when you see Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and all the prophets in the Kingdom of God and you yourselves cast out. And people will come from the east and the west and from the north and the south and will recline at table in the Kingdom of God. For behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.”

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

A Simple Prayer

Lord, you have given me many graces,

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

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

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“What is the Kingdom of God like?”

Gospel Reading: Luke 13:18-21

Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? To what can I compare it? It is like a mustard seed that a man took and planted in the garden. When it was fully grown, it became a large bush and the birds of the sky dwelt in its branches.” Again he said, “To what shall I compare the Kingdom of God? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch of dough was leavened.”

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

A Simple Prayer

Heavenly Father, the Holy Spirit is within me,

Let this spirit overwhelm my soul,

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

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Woman, you are set free of your infirmity.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 13:10-17

Jesus was teaching in a synagogue on the sabbath. And a woman was there who for eighteen years had been crippled by a spirit; she was bent over, completely incapable of standing erect. When Jesus saw her, he called to her and said, “Woman, you are set free of your infirmity.” He laid his hands on her, and she at once stood up straight and glorified God. But the leader of the synagogue, indignant that Jesus had cured on the sabbath, said to the crowd in reply, “There are six days when work should be done. Come on those days to be cured, not on the sabbath day.” The Lord said to him in reply, “Hypocrites! Does not each one of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his ass from the manger and lead it out for watering? This daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound for eighteen years now, ought she not to have been set free on the sabbath day from this bondage?” When he said this, all his adversaries were humiliated; and the whole crowd rejoiced at all the splendid deeds done by him.

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

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

A Simple Prayer

Lord, have mercy on my soul.

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

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

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

Gospel Reading: Luke 12:54-59

Jesus said to the crowds, “When you see a cloud rising in the west you say immediately that it is going to rain–and so it does; and when you notice that the wind is blowing from the south you say that it is going to be hot–and so it is. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky; why do you not know how to interpret the present time? “Why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? If you are to go with your opponent before a magistrate, make an effort to settle the matter on the way; otherwise your opponent will turn you over to the judge, and the judge hand you over to the constable, and the constable throw you into prison. I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny.”

In today’s Gospel, Jesus questions the ability of his disciples to see the signs. He says to them, “You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky; why do you not know how to interpret the present time?” The profits had foretold the coming of Christ and now he was among them. Even with all the signs, his disciples did not recognize him as their Messiah and Savior. With all the signs from his teachings, his miracles and his compassion and love, his disciples still did not recognize him. It is as if they had closed their eyes to the light of Christ. Jesus calls them to repent and open their eyes. He calls them to witness and see who is with them. Christ came to show them the way.

How many times do we miss the signs? How many times are we sitting in church and our mind is elsewhere? How many times has someone reached out to help you and you slapped their hand? Jesus is among us yet we fail to see the light. Jesus said to his disciples, “Why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? If you are to go with your opponent before a magistrate, make an effort to settle the matter on the way; otherwise your opponent will turn you over to the judge, and the judge hand you over to the constable, and the constable throw you into prison.” Jesus is telling us that we must recognize and repent for our sins before our final judgment because it will be too late if we wait till then. He wants for us to ask for forgiveness now. Christ not only came to show us the way, he came to relieve us of our sins.

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

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus, you are the light of my life.

Illuminate my soul so I can see your signs.

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

Help me find the path to your heart.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing!”

Gospel Reading: Luke 12:49-53

Jesus said to his disciples: “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing! There is a baptism with which I must be baptized, and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. From now on a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.”

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

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

A Simple Prayer

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

May your fire consume me with your love.

May your fire flow outside me to others.

May I put you before all others.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“If the master of the house had known the hour when the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 12:39-48

Jesus said to his disciples: “Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour when the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.” Then Peter said, “Lord, is this parable meant for us or for everyone?” And the Lord replied, “Who, then, is the faithful and prudent steward whom the master will put in charge of his servants to distribute the food allowance at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master on arrival finds doing so. Truly, I say to you, he will put him in charge of all his property. But if that servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in coming,’ and begins to beat the menservants and the maidservants, to eat and drink and get drunk, then that servant’s master will come on an unexpected day and at an unknown hour and will punish the servant severely and assign him a place with the unfaithful. That servant who knew his master’s will but did not make preparations nor act in accord with his will shall be beaten severely; and the servant who was ignorant of his master’s will but acted in a way deserving of a severe beating shall be beaten only lightly. Much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.”

In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus again lectures us about being faithful and respecting the gifts which have been given to us. God has given us many gifts which we must treasure and take care of. Jesus says, “You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.” If your time was today, would you be ready for your judgment. God has entrusted us with much responsibility. We need to take care of God’s children and the gifts which he has bestowed upon us. Jesus says, “Blessed is that servant whom his master on arrival finds doing so.” Jesus also warns us, “But if that servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in coming,’ and begins to beat the menservants and the maidservants, to eat and drink and get drunk, then that servant’s master will come on an unexpected day and at an unknown hour and will punish the servant severely and assign him a place with the unfaithful.” We must have faith in God that he will take care of us. This care and love must be reciprocated to others around us. We do these deeds as a demonstration of our faith and love for God. God expects us to use the gifts that he has given us to benefit others. The more he gives you, the more he expects from you. The deeper your faith, the bigger the commitment you must be willing to give. Jesus says, “Much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.” If we only use our gifts to satisfy ourselves, we are denying God’s love and we will be punished accordingly.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, I am your servant,

I am the keeper of your gifts.

Give me the wisdom to make wise use of the gifts

So that they may benefit others

And bring them to your table.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

Today is the Memorial of Saint John de Brébeuf and Saint Isaac Jogues, priests and martyrs, and their companions. These were the first martyrs of North America who gave their lives for the conversion of many pagan souls.

“Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival”

Gospel Reading: Luke 12:35-38

Jesus said to his disciples: “Gird your loins and light your lamps and be like servants who await their master’s return from a wedding, ready to open immediately when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival. Amen, I say to you, he will gird himself, have them recline at table, and proceed to wait on them. And should he come in the second or third watch and find them prepared in this way, blessed are those servants.”

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

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

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

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus, you are my faithful Master and Servant.

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

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

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

I want to always receive you as my Lord.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 10:1-9

The Lord Jesus appointed seventy-two disciples whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. He said to them, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals; and greet no one along the way. Into whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this household.’ If a peaceful person lives there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you. Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you, for the laborer deserves payment. Do not move about from one house to another. Whatever town you enter and they welcome you, eat what is set before you, cure the sick in it and say to them, ‘The Kingdom of God is at hand for you.’”

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

A Simple Prayer

Lord God in Heaven, I am you lamb.

Give me the strength and the will to answer your call.

Transform my life so that I may be a witness of your love and truth.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

Today is the feast day for St. Theresa of Jesus, virgin and doctor of the church.

“There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 12:1-7

At that time: So many people were crowding together that they were trampling one another underfoot. Jesus began to speak, first to his disciples, “Beware of the leaven–that is, the hypocrisy–of the Pharisees. “There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops. I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body but after that can do no more. I shall show you whom to fear. Be afraid of the one who after killing has the power to cast into Gehenna; yes, I tell you, be afraid of that one. Are not five sparrows sold for two small coins? Yet not one of them has escaped the notice of God. Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.”

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

A Simple Prayer:

Lord Jesus, You know my heart and my soul.

You are my light and my salvation,

May this light free me from my sins and transgressions,

May your light lead me to the kingdom of Heaven.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

Gospel Reading: Luke 11:47-54

The Lord said: “Woe to you who build the memorials of the prophets whom your fathers killed. Consequently, you bear witness and give consent to the deeds of your ancestors, for they killed them and you do the building. Therefore, the wisdom of God said, ‘I will send to them prophets and Apostles; some of them they will kill and persecute in order that this generation might be charged with the blood of all the prophets shed since the foundation of the world, from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah who died between the altar and the temple building. Yes, I tell you, this generation will be charged with their blood! Woe to you, scholars of the law! You have taken away the key of knowledge. You yourselves did not enter and you stopped those trying to enter.” When Jesus left, the scribes and Pharisees began to act with hostility toward him and to interrogate him about many things, for they were plotting to catch him at something he might say.

Do you believe in the Word of God? God sent his prophets to deliver the word of God. Unfortunately, many of these prophets were martyred for their beliefs. Zechariah was a prophet who was stoned to death because he accused the Jews of being unfaithful to God’s laws. Abel was the first and Zechariah was the last of the prophets who were killed for their preaching and beliefs. Jesus is upset with the Pharisees for the very same thing. They do not recognize Christ as the Messiah, the savior of the people of Israel. Jesus tells the Pharisees that they are no better than their ancestors who killed the prophets sent by his Father. Jesus’ coming was foretold and prophesied by the same ancestors who were tortured and killed by the Israelites. The Pharisees have not learned from their ancestors. They still deny the Word of God.

Today we can find ourselves in the same boat as the Pharisees. We ignore the teachings which God has sent through not only his prophets, but also his Son. We want to rationalize our own laws instead of the laws of Christ. God commanded us to love our neighbor, to help the poor and the meek and to reach out to those less fortunate. We are called to make sacrifices in our lives, yet we step over the very people Christ has asked us to help. We become legalistic in our interpretation of the Word of God and manipulate his teachings to justify our greed and our envy. We impose our own will and not the will of God. When we do this we take away the “key of knowledge” which Christ provided for us. Who suffers from our actions? Not only this generation, but the generations to come. We should seek the wisdom of God and open our hearts to His Word. We should seek the narrow door which leads us to the cross.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, open my mind to the wisdom of your prophets.

Open my soul to love and compassion of your son.

May I not become like the Pharisees and rationalize sin in my life.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“You pay no attention to judgment and to love for God.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 11:42-46

The Lord said: “Woe to you Pharisees! You pay tithes of mint and of rue and of every garden herb, but you pay no attention to judgment and to love for God. These you should have done, without overlooking the others. Woe to you Pharisees! You love the seat of honor in synagogues and greetings in marketplaces. Woe to you! You are like unseen graves over which people unknowingly walk.” Then one of the scholars of the law said to him in reply, “Teacher, by saying this you are insulting us too.” And he said, “Woe also to you scholars of the law! You impose on people burdens hard to carry, but you yourselves do not lift one finger to touch them.”

Do you ever get the feeling that the Pharisees just didn’t get it? Jesus is deeply saddened by the actions and attitude of the Pharisees. So why does Christ chastise the Pharisees so much? They appeared to followed the Mosaic Law, they tithed as God asked them to do; even the most insignificant of kitchen herbs. So why was Jesus upset with their actions? The Pharisees only concerned themselves with their outward appearance. They only cared about what others thought about them. Their heart and soul were hidden from their fellow man, so their true intentions could not be seen. According to the law, anyone who touched a grave became unclean for seven days. Over time the grave markers would disappear and become unnoticeable. Therefore, a person could walk over the grave without even knowing. Jesus uses this example to unmask the hypocrisy of their ways. The Pharisees were so exact about even the most insignificant of things such as tithing rue, an insignificant kitchen herb that they missed what was really important. The Pharisees are so worried about tithing every little thing that they overlook the major items like God’s justice and love. He is saddened because they are more concerned about where they are sitting in church then about sitting with God. We are called by God to be just and to love, but the Pharisees hearts were filled with malice and hatred. The Pharisees were so focused on their outward image that they were neglecting their inner soul. Jesus was saddened because they completely missed the things that mattered most; the poor, the hungry and those in most need of their love. The rules became more of a reason not to associate with someone then as a reason to embrace all of God’s people. Today’s message tells us that the most important thing is love and justice. We must love everyone no matter what they have done and aide everyone who needs help no matter what their situation. God is love and God is supreme justice. We are made in God’s image; therefore, we should reflect this love and supreme justice for all.

A Simple Prayer

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

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Although you cleanse the outside of the cup and the dish, inside you are filled with plunder and evil.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 11:37-41

After Jesus had spoken, a Pharisee invited him to dine at his home. He entered and reclined at table to eat. The Pharisee was amazed to see that he did not observe the prescribed washing before the meal. The Lord said to him, “Oh you Pharisees! Although you cleanse the outside of the cup and the dish, inside you are filled with plunder and evil. You fools! Did not the maker of the outside also make the inside? But as to what is within, give alms, and behold, everything will be clean for you.”

In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus clearly is not happy with the general attitude of the Pharisees. He chastises them for their hypocrisy which is cloaked in their legalistic ways. The Pharisees know the Mosaic law backward and forward, but they do not understand the spirit of the law. What good is it to appear clean when your insides are dirty. What part of the cup is most important to be clean? What is more important, clean hands or a clean heart and mind. It is easy to put on a fake façade and make people think you are righteous. But to truly be righteous, it must come from the heart. You must be willing to freely give from within. “But as to what is within, give alms, and behold, everything will be clean for you.” We have to be generous with those things we tend to hoard, those things we tend to hold back and keep from others. To give your treasures is to give the love which Christ poured out for you on the cross. You must be willing to make the inward sacrifice for others. You must show a deep concern for both their spiritual and material welfare. The phrase “to give alms” means to give mercy and compassion. Therefore, you are asked to give mercy and compassion as Christ gave to you. How much better the world would be if we sacrificed everything for our fellow man. Unfortunately we allow greed and envy plague our heart.

A Simple Prayer

Lord, you are so kind and merciful.

You poured out your love and grace to save me from my sins.

Help me cleanse my inside so that I can free myself from greed and envy.

Give me a clean mind and clean heart.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 11:29-32

While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. At the judgment, the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generation and she will condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and there is something greater than Solomon here. At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generation and condemn it, because at the preaching of Jonah they repented, and there is something greater than Jonah here.”

In today’s Gospel reading, the Jews are demanding a sign from Jesus. So what was the sign of Jonah? Jonah was a profit who lead the Ninevites to do penance for their sins. His actions and preaching to the Ninevites were seen as a sign that he was sent by God. The Ninevites were in trouble because of the sinful ways, but because of their repentant ways, God was merciful to them. This was the same message that Jesus brought to the Jews and is still true today. Jesus came to free us from the slavery of sins and to free us from the burdens of evil. His divine mercy was poured out for us for our own salvation.

Christ is present in our lives today. He is preaching a message of repentance and grace. He is preaching a message of salvation through him. So how do we respond to that message? Do you want signs or do you seek him out. Do you reject him for the alternative message that the world preaches. We are called to examine our conscience and to seek out mercy for those sins which darken our soul. We are called to actively seek forgiveness for our sins. God has mercy on us no matter what sin we commit. This generation is an evil generation; it should seek the sign that Jonah brought to the Ninevites. We should open up our souls and bear the things that keep us from entering the Kingdom of Heaven. When we open ourselves up to judgment by Christ, we remove the burdens that weigh us down.

A Simple Prayer

Lord God, help me to recognize my sinful ways.

Help me to free myself from the bonds of Satan

It is through your mercy and goodness that I am set free.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

Gospel Reading: Luke 11:15-26

When Jesus had driven out a demon, some of the crowd said: “By the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons, he drives out demons.” Others, to test him, asked him for a sign from heaven. But he knew their thoughts and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste and house will fall against house. And if Satan is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that it is by Beelzebul that I drive out demons. If I, then, drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your own people drive them out? Therefore they will be your judges. But if it is by the finger of God that I drive out demons, then the Kingdom of God has come upon you. When a strong man fully armed guards his palace, his possessions are safe. But when one stronger than he attacks and overcomes him, he takes away the armor on which he relied and distributes the spoils. Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. “When an unclean spirit goes out of someone, it roams through arid regions searching for rest but, finding none, it says, ‘I shall return to my home from which I came.’ But upon returning, it finds it swept clean and put in order. Then it goes and brings back seven other spirits more wicked than itself who move in and dwell there, and the last condition of that man is worse than the first.”

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

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

But Jesus gives us hope. In the second half of Gospel Jesus says, “When a strong man fully armed guards his palace, his possessions are safe. But when one stronger than he attacks and overcomes him, he takes away the armor on which he relied and distributes the spoils.” The Strong Man is Satan who works hard to occupy our hearts and our homes. Jesus is stronger than Satan and can overcome him. If we let God into our hearts, God will conquer Satan and cast out his spoils. But just because Satan has been cast out, he does not give up. “When an unclean spirit goes out of someone, it roams through arid regions searching for rest but, finding none, it says, ‘I shall return to my home from which I came.’” Satan will return, over and over again continually trying to conquer our souls. Jesus warns us that “But upon returning, it finds it swept clean and put in order. Then it goes and brings back seven other spirits more wicked than itself who move in and dwell there, and the last condition of that man is worse than the first.” We must continually guard against the power of Satan. We must continually clean our house and be ever vigilant against his tricks and evil ways.

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus, cast out the demons which plague my life.

Dispel from me those spirits which keep me from the Kingdom of God.

Purify my house so that it stands united.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 11:5-13

Jesus said to his disciples: “Suppose one of you has a friend to whom he goes at midnight and says, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, for a friend of mine has arrived at my house from a journey and I have nothing to offer him,’ and he says in reply from within, ‘Do not bother me; the door has already been locked and my children and I are already in bed. I cannot get up to give you anything.’ I tell you, if he does not get up to give him the loaves because of their friendship, he will get up to give him whatever he needs because of his persistence. “And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. What father among you would hand his son a snake when he asks for a fish? Or hand him a scorpion when he asks for an egg? If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?”

In today’s gospel reading, Jesus tells the story of a late night traveler seeking hospitality from his host. No matter what time the traveler arrives, it was the obligation of the town to receive and entertain this traveler. The host needs bread to nourish the traveler and must go and get bread from one of his neighbors. Jesus says that the neighbor will not provide the bread because you are friends, but because of the importance of the visitor you will be persistent. This story is about prayer and asking for God’s unending supply of grace which is poured out for us. Jesus tells his disciples that they must be persistent in their prayer – “ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” If you ask God in prayer, He will provide everything you need; if you seek out God, you will find Him there with you; and if you knock on his door, He will open it and receive you in. If we ask and do not receive what we want, then maybe the prayer was not sincere or it was for something we do not need. Remember the saying – be careful what you ask for.

God answers every prayer – the answer just might be no. Jesus tells them, “What father among you would hand his son a snake when he asks for a fish?” Jesus is telling his disciples that God will only provide what is good and what is needed. God understands what our heart is longing. We may not see it the same way, but God knows what is best. Jesus uses the image of the father-child relationship to demonstrate God’s heavenly relationship with us on earth. A good father will provide what his children need and will not provide anything that will harm them. God provides us with what is needed to nourish us both physically and spiritually. He provides what is needed to feed the body. Jesus concludes this story telling us how overflowing God’s grace actually is, “If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?” This last statement tells us that God’s grace is abundant, overflowing and unending. God provides more then what we need or we expect. God gives us his gifts freely and without conditions. We do not even have to deserve them and he will provide. We must pray with confidence for our God is kind and merciful.

A Simple Prayer

Most Heavenly Father, I come to you with an open heart.

Pour your grace out upon me. My wants are many but my needs are few.

All I ask is that you provide me with your grace so that I might live as your disciple.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Lord, teach us to pray just as John taught his disciples.”

Gospel Reading: Luke 11:1-4

Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray just as John taught his disciples.” He said to them, “When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name, your Kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread and forgive us our sins for we ourselves forgive everyone in debt to us, and do not subject us to the final test.”

Have you ever heard someone speak and marveled at how eloquently the words came from their mouth. They seemed to have everything just right. That’s how Jesus’ disciples must have felt when they watched him pray to his Father. The disciples want to learn how to pray like him. This may seem like a very strange request, especially since Jews were very devoted to prayer. But Jesus must have been awesome to watch pray. His praying must have been inspirational to those who saw him. I’m sure they were expecting some long drawn out teaching, but Jesus responds with a simple response. Jesus responds to his disciples with the Lord’s Prayer; a simple yet confident prayer. It begins with a recognition of who God is - “Father, hallowed be thy name.” In the introduction, we recognize that God is Lord of All and that he his sacred. Then we recognize the fact that God’s kingdom is here on earth – “your kingdom come.” This is more than a statement, it is a request to bring forth the Kingdom that we may experience it for ourselves. In this statement, we recognize that we are building the Kingdom of God through the will of God.

To do God’s labor, we ask him to nourish us with what we need to survive the day – “Give us each day our daily bread.” When Moses lead the Jews from Egypt, God told them only to take what they needed for the day. To ask for any more is greedy and wasteful. We are told that the Lord will provide us with everything we need, we just need to trust him. Then we ask, “forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone who is in debt to us.” It is important to ask the Lord for forgiveness every time we do something wrong. Every time we gossip, we hurt someone, we steal or we cheat, we must ask forgiveness from God. However, how can we ask for forgiveness if we fail to forgive those who have hurt us or sinned against us? When you start your evening reflection, you should start with a reflection of those who have sinned against you. This will allow you to remove the hatred or the resentment you might form against them. Once you forgive others, your heart will be freed then to accept the grace of forgiveness from God. In the last line he tells us to pray - “lead us not into temptation.” We are not asking God not to lead us into temptation because God would not do that. We are asking God to give us the strength to avoid sin and temptation. We are asking God for the strength to avoid the peer pressure and sinful desires of the world. It is us that must find the strength to avoid sin. The Lord’s Prayer is simple, yet confident. Pray with confidence in the word’s our Father gave us. Listen to the words and understand what you are asking. God’s unending grace will free us from the traps and snares which cause us to sin.

A Simple Prayer

Father, hallowed be your name, your Kingdom come.

Give us each day our daily bread and forgive us our sins for we ourselves forgive everyone in debt to us, and

do not subject us to the final test.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon