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 mustard seed that a man took and planted in the garden.” 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 our hearts and souls. If we properly nourish this seed, it grows and flourishes into this massive tree which becomes Church. The Church provides shelter and nourishment through the spirit of the Lord which is the food and water that causes the tree to grow. If we let God’s love into our heart, what comes forth is the kingdom of heaven.  If we close off our heart to his love, we are barren and lifeless. 

 

Jesus also compared the kingdom of God to leaven bread. He said that the kingdom “is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch of dough was leavened.” The leaven created a transformation within the bread. Once the leaven is placed in 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.  Like the bread, our love will spread to others who too will become effected by the leaven of our love. Once we have been touched by the Holy Spirit, the kingdom of God will grow within us and expand outward through us to the rest of the world. The seeds of the kingdom of Heaven have been planted within your soul.  Nourish those seeds so that they will grow and expand.  As the kingdom of Heaven grows, take refuge and comfort in her branches. 

 

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:

 

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.”

 

“You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky; why do you not know how to interpret the present time?” In today’s Gospel, Jesus questions the ability of his disciples to see the signs. 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 his resurrection and ultimately the one holy catholic and apostolic 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’s love. Jesus says, “There is a baptism with which I must be baptized, and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished!” The baptism is his crucifixion and death for us on the cross. 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 total glorious acceptance of this new life and grace from God. Through our Baptism and eventually our Confirmation, we too shall set the world 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.

 

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. 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 before God. 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:

 

“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:

 

“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, … 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 through 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 deepest 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 do 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:

 

“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-two disciples to go into mission.  Jesus commissions seventy-two disciples and sends them out to “heal the sick” and to proclaim that “The Kingdom of God is at hand.”  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-two had to detach themselves from their earthly treasures and commit themselves fully to their mission. They had to learn to rely solely on God and his abundant gifts.  The 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 the things of this world.  Jesus also tells his disciples 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 and were willing to kill them. But rest assured, 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.  In this Year of Faith, we are all called into service as Apostles to God.  The harvest is more plentiful today than ever before.  According to Pew Research, the second largest religion in the US is former Catholics.  Also, more people today claim not to be religious, then claim to have a religious affiliation. Unfortunately the laborers are still few.  By today’s Gospel, you have been selected by God to go out and harvest the fruits..  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 and the seed was planted.  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:

 

“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 or maybe that Jesus just didn’t get along with them? In reality, it is just the opposite.  He engaged the Pharisees to change their hearts and their ways.  He realized that while they thought their ways were correct, in actuality, their actions were actually empty and lacked inward sincerity.  Jesus is deeply saddened by the actions and attitude of the Pharisees because it is only an outward following of a set of rules without a sincere heart. The Pharisees 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 were only concerned with their own 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.

 

Jesus compared their attitude to walking on an unmarked grave.  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 it. Jesus uses this example to unmask the hypocrisy of their ways. 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.”

 

What is most important, what is inside our heart or what shows to others.  The Pharisee questioned Jesus because he did not followed the ritual cleaning process.  His response questions 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 thoughts and your intentions are dirty. What part of the cup is most important to be clean – the inside or the outside?  Similarly, 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.” If our thoughts and our desires our clean, then our outward actions will be based on truly righteous beginnings. 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 from your inner treasures is to give the love which Christ poured out for us on the cross. You must be willing to make the inward sacrifice for others through both a deep concern for their spiritual and material welfare. Jesus use the phrase “to give alms” which means to give mercy and compassion. Therefore, you are asked to give mercy and compassion as Christ gave to you. This must start from within.  How much better the world would be if we sacrificed everything for our fellow man. Unfortunately we allow greed and envy plague our heart.  We allow hatred become the foundation of our actions.  To defeat hatred, we must allow our hearts to be filled with the love of Christ himself.

 

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.”

 

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 with God because of their sinful ways; however, Jonah so moved the people of Nineveh that they changed their evil ways.  This was the same message that Jesus brought to the Jews to free them from the bondages that tie them to this world and separate from heaven.  He came to free them from their sins.  He forgave them and set them free.  What greater message could there be.  This same message 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. Jesus Christ is present in our lives today and 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?  The people of Israel wanted signs through his miraculous physical healings, but the sign he wanted them witness was through his spiritual healing.  Do you seek physical signs or do you seek him out for his spiritual comfort?  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 and mercy for those around us. God has mercy on us no matter what sin we commit; we just need to be repentant and seek his spiritual healing. “This generation is an evil generation; it should seek the sign that Jonah brought to the Ninevites.” We should open up our souls and shed the things that keep us from entering the Kingdom of Heaven. When we open ourselves up to the judgment of 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:

 

Today is the Memorial for Our Lady of the Rosary – God bless our Holy Mother, Queen of Heaven and Earth

 

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 somehow linked to Satan since he was able to tell the demons what to do. They thought he might be their leader since he was able to command them.  They questioned where he got his authority and power. We are well into Jesus’ mission and these Jews continue to resent Jesus and deny his miracles. They simply cannot believe that a man could do such a feat. What they fail to see is the power of God alive within Christ and more importantly, to recognize that Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus tells them: “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste and house will fall against house.” If Satan is wiping out his own, wouldn’t his legions eventually fail? The doubters would rather attribute the power to Satan then admit that 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 sects. 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, thereby we can begin to restore the one true mother church. 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?”

 

Today is the first day of the Year of Faith instituted by Pope Benedict.  We are invited to enter into a deeper relationship with our Father in heaven. And while entering that relationship, we should bring along all our friends with us.  Today’s gospel reading tells us that our Father is welcoming and always ready to receive us. 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. Unfortunately the friend would not provide the bread, but because of the importance of the visitor the neighbor persisted. 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 maybe we were asking for a snake, but thought it was a fish.  God will not provide us things 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:

 

“Behold, I have prepared my banquet, my calves and fattened cattle are killed, and everything is ready; come to the feast.” 

 

Gospel Reading: Matthew 22:1-14

 

Jesus again in reply spoke to the chief priests and the elders of the people in parables saying, “The Kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son. He dispatched his servants to summon the invited guests to the feast, but they refused to come. A second time he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those invited: “Behold, I have prepared my banquet, my calves and fattened cattle are killed, and everything is ready; come to the feast.”’ Some ignored the invitation and went away, one to his farm, another to his business. The rest laid hold of his servants, mistreated them, and killed them. The king was enraged and sent his troops, destroyed those murderers, and burned their city. Then the king said to his servants, ‘The feast is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy to come. Go out, therefore, into the main roads and invite to the feast whomever you find.’ The servants went out into the streets and gathered all they found, bad and good alike, and the hall was filled with guests. But when the king came in to meet the guests he saw a man there not dressed in a wedding garment. He said to him, ‘My friend, how is it that you came in here without a wedding garment?’ But he was reduced to silence. Then the king said to his attendants, ‘Bind his hands and feet, and cast him into the darkness outside, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.’ Many are invited, but few are chosen.”

 

In today’s gospel reading, Jesus tells us yet another parable about the Kingdom of heaven.  This time the parable is about a pending wedding feast.  The wedding feast is a celebration of the union between the bride and bridegroom.  In this particular story, a King’s son is to be married and the King sent out invitations well in advance of the celebration.  However, the invited guests, his supposed loyal subjects ignored the invitation or brutalized the messengers.  In this parable, the King represents God and the King’s son is Jesus, the heir to throne.  In the Gospels, Jesus is commonly referred to as the bridegroom and we the church his bride.  We are called to celebrate this union around a great feast.  God has sent out many invitations, but the invitations are ignored.  As it states in the scripture, “Some ignored the invitation and went away, one to his farm, another to his business. The rest laid hold of his servants, mistreated them, and killed them.”  Instead of listening to the word of God, we too often make light of our obligations to the master.  We do not take seriously the call to obey the commandments and decide to follow our own rules.  These become the distractions in our lives which prevent us from finding the Kingdom of heaven.  Jesus is waiting for us, are we willing to come to the table. 

 

The parable indicates that the wedding feast was attended by both “bad and good alike.”  God is inviting everyone, even sinners to the wedding feast.  All are welcome and no one is turned away; however, you need to be properly dressed for the festival.  If we come unprepared and improperly dressed, we will be turned away.  Even though God extends his grace, we must be willing to take on the responsibility of his grace.  God’s grace only comes into our souls when we are truly receptive and prepared to receive his grace.  God invites each of us to the table that we may celebrate in joy of Lord - be prepared and properly dressed.

 

A Simple Prayer

 

Father in heaven, your grace is enough,

You have prepared the banquet table for a feast

Help open my heart to your feast.

 

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon 

 

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

 

You are anxious and worried about many things.

 

Gospel Reading: Luke 10:38-42

 

Jesus entered a village where a woman whose name was Martha welcomed him. She had a sister named Mary who sat beside the Lord at his feet listening to him speak.  Martha, burdened with much serving, came to  him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving?  Tell her to help me.”  The Lord said to her in reply, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her.”

 

I believe at times we can each fit into the role of Martha and Mary.  So which role are you playing today – the worrier or the worshiper?  Do you make time for God in your busy life or are you so busy with life there is no time for God? We must not only take time to stop and relax, we must take time to stop and relax in the Lord.  You must take time to truly hear the Word of God. When you are in church, is your time spent praying about the Gospel or is it spent worrying about all the things you have to do? In today’s Gospel reading, we hear the story about Martha and Mary, two very close friends and disciples of Jesus. While Jesus was visiting their house, Martha was busy cleaning house and preparing dinner while Mary sat attentively at his feet listening to his teachings. Martha, caught up in her own neediness, complained to Jesus that Mary wasn’t helping. This gospel is describing two different servants of the Lord. Martha was busy preparing Jesus’ supper and is worried about the house, yet Mary was busy absorbing the Word of God and worried about her spiritual house. Both jobs are important, but we must not let our lives get so anxious and busy that we forget to take in the Lord. While the meal that Martha was preparing was important, it was not as important as the food that Mary was receiving from Jesus Christ. How many times are our lives filled with activities which keep us from church, from prayer, from sitting at the feet of Christ? When we participate in these activities we need to free ourselves from our busy schedules and open our soul to Christ. We must be willing to nourish ourselves in the Word of God. Slow down, take time to stop and smell the roses; take time for God. We need to let go and let God.  No matter how busy your life is, do not forget to pray and experience a deeper relationship with God. Take time every evening to reflect on the day and to thank God for all the wonderful things he has provided. Take time to experience the Gospel.

 

A Simple Prayer

 

Lord, set me free from my busy life so I can enjoy the wonder and awe of your life.

Free me from the chains which bind me to my earthly worries.

I want to experience your undivided love.

 

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

 

“You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart.”

 

Gospel Reading: Luke 10:25-37

 

There was a scholar of the law who stood up to test Jesus and said, “Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “What is written in the law? How do you read it?” He said in reply, “You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” He replied to him, “You have answered correctly; do this and you will live.” But because he wished to justify himself, he said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus replied,  “A man fell victim to robbers as he went down from Jerusalem to Jericho. They stripped and beat him and went off  leaving him half-dead. A priest happened to be going down that road, but when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. Likewise a Levite came to the place, and when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite  side. But a Samaritan traveler who came upon him was moved with compassion at the sight. He approached the victim, poured oil and wine over his wounds and bandaged them. Then he lifted him up on his own animal, took him to an inn, and cared for him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper with the instruction, ‘Take care of him. If you spend more than what I have given you, I shall repay you on my way back.’ Which of these three, in your opinion, was neighbor to the robbers’ victim?” He answered, “The one who treated him with mercy.” Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”

 

How far are you willing to go to obtain eternal life? What is it that Jesus Christ is calling you to do?  Hopefully you are willing to hear and head his calling.  A Jewish scholar asks Jesus, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus say it’s simple, Love God with everything you have and love your neighbor even if he is your enemy.” Such simple words, yet so hard to do. In the parable in today’s Gospel reading, a priest and a Levite, both fellow Jews, leave the man on the side of the road to die, while the person least likely to help the man, the Samaritan, stops to render aid. Christ calls us to do the same, we are called to render aid to everyone, even to those who we do not want to render aid. So you’re probably asking, why didn’t they stop and render aid.  Because the man was bleeding and was considered unclean.  No priest of Rabbi would have stopped and touched the man because it would have made them spiritually impure. But Christ tells us that these human rituals and laws do not surpass the requirement to help our fellow man, no matter who or under what circumstance.  We must be willing to help everyone who is in need of help. We must be willing to defend everyone who is being treated unjustly. The parable tells us that not only must we render aid to everyone, but we must also help our enemy get back on his feet. How far are you willing to go for your enemy? You must be willing to die to the views of the world. God did not give us hatred, it is a learned trait given to us in our fallen world. Hatred consumes the love that God has poured out for us. Hatred causes neighbors to kill neighbors. Hatred cause us to kill our very soul. How can you go to heaven if you do not love and cherish all of the creations of God? Ask God to give you the strength to love those who you hate. Ask God to abolish the hatred in your soul so you can reach out to your enemy. How can you love God and hate one of his creations. We must treat our enemy with mercy.

 

A Simple Prayer

 

Lord God, help me abolish the hatred which grows in my heart.

Help me to learn to love my neighbor as I love you.

May learn to have mercy for all as you have given mercy to me.

 

Yours in Christ

Michael F. Marcon

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

 

“The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few.”

 

Gospel Reading: Luke 10:1-12

 

Jesus appointed seventy-two other 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 his 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.’ Whatever town you enter and they do not receive you, go out into the streets and say, ‘The dust of your town that clings to our feet, even that we shake off against you.’ Yet know this: the Kingdom of God is at hand. I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom on that day than for that town.”

 

In today’s gospel reading, Jesus commissions 72 disciples to go out into the world to preach the good news that “the Kingdom of God is at hand.” Jesus was telling these disciples that there are many who seek God and seek the Kingdom of heaven and we must go and find them. The seeds have been planted and the crop is rich. It is time to harvest the fruits of his labor. We are called to be the laborers of Christ. We must go out into the world and harvest the fields. These seeds have been planted in every human soul. It is our job to make sure that the fruit of the harvest is plentiful. But Jesus also warns his disciples that it will not be easy. He says, “Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves.” The Lambs represent the peacemakers and disciples of Christ; those who humbly commit to do the work of God. Yet the world is full of opposition to those who wish to do God’s work. These wolves of society persecute the lambs and try to prevent them from doing their work. We as lambs need to know that God is with us and will protect us in our journey. Those who bend to the will of God will experience the Kingdom of Heaven but those who do not will bring condemnation on themselves and their village. We must accept and fully embrace that we are the laborers of God. This is a grace which God has bestowed upon us. We are either with Christ or against. There is no in between. Once we try to establish excuses or reasons why we can’t, we immediately become consumed by the wolves.

 

A Simple Prayer

 

Lord, I am your lamb and your servant.

The harvest is plentiful and ripe,

Give me the strength to work the field

To build the Kingdom of Heaven.

 

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon

 

Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

 

“For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest.”

 

Gospel Reading: Luke 9:46-50

An argument arose among the disciples about which of them was the greatest.  Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child and placed it by his side and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest.”  Then John said in reply,  “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our company.” Jesus said to him,  “Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”

 

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

 

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

 

A Simple Prayer

 

Lord, allow your grace to overflow into me,

To give me strength to be humble and meek,

To have a childlike level of innocence.

May that grace give me strength to serve others.

 

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon