Daily Bible Readings

September 30, 2011
1st READING

The people of God have been taken into captivity in Babylon because of their unfaithfulness to the covenant they made with God. In exile they reflect back on the reasons for their captivity and realize that they had broken the law of God and hence had suffered the consequences of their infidelities. God’s desire is to bless His people but if they disobey Him and serve other gods, then they will not receive the blessing but suffer a curse instead.

Baruch 1:15-22
15 During the Babylonian captivity, the exiles prayed: “Justice is with the LORD, our God; and we today are flushed with shame, we men of Judah and citizens of Jerusalem, 16 that we, with our kings and rulers and priests and prophets, and with our ancestors, 17 have sinned in the LORD’s sight 18 and disobeyed him. We have neither heeded the voice of the LORD, our God, nor followed the precepts which the LORD set before us. 19 From the time the LORD led our ancestors out of the land of Egypt until the present day, we have been disobedient to the LORD, our God, and only too ready to disregard his voice. 20 And the evils and the curse which the LORD enjoined upon Moses, his servant, at the time he led our ancestors forth from the land of Egypt to give us the land flowing with milk and honey, cling to us even today. 21 For we did not heed the voice of the LORD, our God, in all the words of the prophets whom he sent us, 22 but each one of us went off after the devices of our own wicked hearts, served other gods, and did evil in the sight of the LORD, our God.

P S A L M

Psalms 79:1-2, 3-5, 8, 9
R: For the glory of your name, O Lord, deliver us.
1 O God, the nations have come into your inheritance; they have defiled your holy temple, they have laid Jerusalem in ruins. 2 They have given the corpses of your servants as food to the birds of heaven, the flesh of your faithful ones to the beasts of the earth. (R) 3 They have poured out their blood like water round about Jerusalem, and there is no one to bury them. 4 We have become the reproach of our neighbors, the scorn and derision of those around us. 5 O LORD, how long? Will you be angry forever? Will your jealousy burn like fire? (R) 8 Remember not against us the iniquities of the past; may your compassion quickly come to us, for we are brought very low. (R) 9 Help us, O God our savior, because of the glory of your name; deliver us and pardon our sins for your name’s sake. (R)


G O S P E L

Here, Jesus speaks out against the cities of Chorazin and Bethsaida where He had performed many miracles yet they had not believed His message. Jesus makes it clear that to whom much is given, much will be required. As these two towns received so many blessings from God, they would be judged more severely than Tyre and Sidon. This is a sobering message that reminds us not to take for granted the blessings of God because with each comes a responsibility to respond.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

Luke 10:13-16
13 Jesus said to them, “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14 But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. 15 And as for you, Capernaum, ‘Will you be exalted to heaven? You will go down to the netherworld.’” 16 Whoever listens to you listens to me. Whoever rejects you rejects me. And whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me.”

my reflections
t h i n k : Let us not take for granted the blessings of God because with each comes a responsibility to respond.


God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
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T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

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READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Ezekiel 29-32
iel 29-32

Daily Bible Readings

September 29, 2011
1st READING

In this passage from the Book of Revelation, we see a vision of John the Beloved in which the Archangel Michael is at war with Satan and casts him and his angels out of heaven. Having been thrown down to earth, Satan wages war against the saints and does this by accusing them before God for all their sins. While the Holy Spirit convicts us of our sins and seeks to lead us to repentance, Satan only wants to discourage us and make us feel unworthy so that we do not want to come to God our Father and be forgiven.

Revelation 12:7-12 (or Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14)
7 War broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels battled against the dragon. The dragon and its angels fought back, 8 but they did not prevail and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. 9 The huge dragon, the ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, who deceived the whole world, was thrown down to earth, and its angels were thrown down with it. 10 Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have salvation and power come, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Anointed. For the accuser of our brothers is cast out, who accuses them before our God day and night. 11 They conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; love for life did not deter them from death. 12 Therefore, rejoice, you heavens, and you who dwell in them.”

P S A L M

Psalms 138:1-2, 2-3, 4-5
R: In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord.
1 I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart, for you have heard the words of my mouth; in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise; 2 I will worship at your holy temple and give thanks to your name. (R) Because of your kindness and your truth; for you have made great above all things your name and your promise. (R) 3 When I called, you answered me; you built up strength within me. (R) 4 All the kings of the earth shall give thanks to you, O LORD, when they hear the words of your mouth; 5 and they shall sing of the ways of the LORD: “Great is the glory of the LORD.” (R)

G O S P E L

Nathanael is convinced that Jesus is the Messiah and anointed one of God because Jesus says that He saw him under the fig tree. Yet Jesus informs him that he will see far greater things than that. Jesus then makes an allusion to the story of Jacob who slept and saw a ladder going up to heaven and angels ascending and descending on it. He called the place the House of God. Jesus tells Nathanael that He is the new house or dwelling of God and will in fact replace the Temple in Jerusalem.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
Bless the Lord, all you angels, you ministers, who do His will.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

John 1:47-51
47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Here is a true child of Israel. There is no duplicity in him.” 48 Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.” 49 Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” 50 Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” 51 And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see the sky opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”

my reflections
t h in k : While the Holy Spirit convicts us of our sins and seeks to lead us to repentance, Satan only wants to discourage us and make us feel unworthy so that we do not want to come to God our Father and be forgiven.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
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T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

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READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Ezekiel 24-28

Daily Bible Readings

September 28, 2011
1st READING

Nehemiah is sad and wants to rebuild his city that was destroyed by fire. His request to the king to go and rebuild it was granted. This reading tells us that we should not wallow in self-pity and remorse but trust and wait on the bountiful mercy of God.

Nehemiah 2:1-8
1 In the month Nisan of the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when the wine was in my charge, I took some and offered it to the king. As I had never before been sad in his presence, 2 the king asked me, “Why do you look sad? If you are not sick, you must be sad at heart.” Though I was seized with great fear, 3 I answered the king: “May the king live forever! How could I not look sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been eaten out by fire?” 4 The king asked me, “What is it, then, that you wish?” I prayed to the God of heaven 5 and then answered the king: “If it please the king, and if your servant is deserving of your favor, send me to Judah, to the city of my ancestors’ graves, to rebuild it.” 6 Then the king, and the queen seated beside him, asked me how long my journey would take and when I would return. I set a date that was acceptable to him, and the king agreed that I might go. 7 I asked the king further: “If it please the king, let letters be given to me for the governors of West-of-euphrates, that they may afford me safe-conduct till I arrive in Judah; 8 also a letter for Asaph, the keeper of the royal park, that he may give me wood for timbering the gates of the temple-citadel and for the city wall and the house that I shall occupy.” The king granted my requests, for the favouring hand of my God was upon me.

P S A L M
Psalms 137:1-2, 3, 4-5, 6
R: Let my tongue be silenced if I ever forget you!
1 By the streams of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion. 2 On the aspens of that land we hung up our harps. (R) 3 Though there our captors asked of us the lyrics of our songs, and our despoilers urged us to be joyous: “Sing for us the songs of Zion!” (R) 4 How could we sing a song of the LORD in a foreign land? 5 If I forget you, Jerusalem, may my right hand be forgotten! (R) 6 May my tongue cleave to my palate if I remember you not, if I place not Jerusalem ahead of my joy. (R)

G O S P E L
Ezekiel 21-23
The reading tells us that when Jesus calls us to follow Him, we should not dilly-dally and give excuses for postponing our journey of discipleship. He can call us at any stage of our life — in our youth, in middle age, or even in our old age. What is important is that we are ready to follow Him any time He calls us.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
I consider all things so much rubbish that I may gain Christ and be found in him.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

Luke 9:57-62
57 As Jesus and his disciples were proceeding on their journey someone said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” 58 Jesus answered him, “Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.” 59 And to another he said, “Follow me.” But he replied, “Lord, let me go first and bury my father.” 60 But he answered him, “Let the dead bury their dead. But you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” 61 And another said, “I will follow you, Lord, but first let me say farewell to my family at home.” 62 Jesus answered him, “No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God.”

my reflections
t h i n k : What is important is that we are ready to follow Him anytime He calls us.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
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T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

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READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Ezekiel 21-23

Daily Bible Readings

September 27, 2011
1st READING

The prophet Zechariah looks forward to a time when Israel will be the spiritual center of the world. While in a spiritual sense this has happened with the coming of Christ, it still awaits a more literal fulfillment when, as St. Paul tells us, the whole of Israel will be saved. That will usher in the fulfillment of the Messianic Kingdom and bring about a world of peace.

Zechariah 8:20-23
20 Thus says the LORD of hosts: There shall yet come peoples, the inhabitants of many cities; 21 and the inhabitants of one city shall approach those of another, and say, “Come! let us go to implore the favour of the LORD”; and, “I too will go to seek the LORD.” 22 Many peoples and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem and to implore the favor of the LORD. 23 Thus says the LORD of hosts: In those days ten men of every nationality, speaking different tongues, shall take hold, yes, take hold of every Jew by the edge of his garment and say, “Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.”

P S A L M

Psalms 87:1-3, 4-5, 6-7
R: God is with us.
1 His foundation upon the holy mountains 2 the LORD loves, the gates of Zion, more than any dwelling of Jacob. 3 Glorious things are said of you, O city of God! (R) 4 I tell of Egypt and Babylon among those that know the LORD; Of Philistia, Tyre, Ethiopia: “This man was born there.” 5 And of Zion they shall say: “One and all were born in her; and he who has established her is the Most High LORD.” (R) 6 They shall note, when the peoples are enrolled: “This man was born there.” 7 And all shall sing, in their festive dance: “My home is within you.” (R)

G O S P E L

As Jesus makes His way to Jerusalem to begin the final weeks of His earthly life, He visits a Samaritan village. The people do not welcome Him as they know He is traveling to Jerusalem and they have a lot of hatred and resentment to the authorities there. James and John want Him to call down fire from heaven upon them in revenge. Jesus rebukes them as His mission is to invite people to repentance and new life, not to force it onto them.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
The Son of Man came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.
R: Alleluia, alleluia
Luke 9:51-56
51 When the days for Jesus to be taken up were fulfilled, he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem, 52 and he sent messengers ahead of him. On the way they entered a Samaritan village to prepare for his reception there, 53 but they would not welcome him because the destination of his journey was Jerusalem. 54 When the disciples James and John saw this they asked, “Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?” 55 Jesus turned and rebuked them, 56 and they journeyed to another village.

my reflections
t h i n k : Jesus’ mission is to invite people to repentance and new life, not to force it onto them.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
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T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

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READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Ezekiel 17-20



Ezekiel 17-20

Daily Bible Readings

September 26, 2011
1st READING

God says that He is jealous for His people. That is, He will ultimately come to our aid and vindicate us even when we have been wrongly treated. Though at times it seems that evil prevails, it is an illusion and will only endure as long as God permits. Ultimately all that God has ordained will come about and nothing will prevent His purposes from being realized.

Zechariah 8:1-8
1 This word of the LORD of hosts came: Thus says the LORD of hosts: 2 I am intensely jealous for Zion, stirred to jealous wrath for her. 3 Thus says the LORD: I will return to Zion, and I will dwell within Jerusalem; Jerusalem shall be called the faithful city, and the mountain of the LORD of hosts, the holy mountain. 4 Thus says the LORD of hosts: Old men and old women, each with staff in hand because of old age, shall again sit in the streets of Jerusalem. 5 The city shall be filled with boys and girls playing in her streets. 6 Thus says the LORD of hosts: Even if this should seem impossible in the eyes of the remnant of this people, shall it in those days be impossible in my eyes also, says the LORD of hosts? 7 Thus says the LORD of hosts: Lo, I will rescue my people from the land of the rising sun, and from the land of the setting sun. 8 I will bring them back to dwell within Jerusalem. They shall be my people, and I will be their God, with faithfulness and justice.

P S A L M

Psalms 102:16-18, 19-21, 29, 22-23
R: The Lord will build up Zion again, and appear in all his glory.
15 [16] The nations shall revere your name, O LORD, and all the kings of the earth your glory, 16 [17] when the LORD has rebuilt Zion and appeared in his glory; 17 [18] when he has regarded the prayer of the destitute, and not despised their prayer. (R) 18 [19] Let this be written for the generation to come, and let his future creatures praise the LORD: 19 [20] “The LORD looked down from his holy height, from heaven he beheld the earth, 20 [21] to hear the groaning of the prisoners, to release those doomed to die.” (R) 28 [29] The children of your servants shall abide, and their posterity shall continue in your presence. 21 [22] That the name of the LORD may be declared in Zion; and his praise, in Jerusalem, 22 [23] When the peoples gather together, and the kingdoms, to serve the LORD. (R)

G O S P E L
Imagining Jesus reigning over a worldwide Kingdom with Jerusalem as its capital, the disciples no doubt were all keen to have the highest places of honor and authority. Here they are arguing as to who is the greatest and therefore warrants the highest position. Jesus shows them the foolishness of their thinking by placing a small child in their midst and telling them that the one who is most like the child will be the greatest in the Kingdom of God. The values of the Kingdom overturn those of our world.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
The Son of Man came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

Luke 9:46-50
46 An argument arose among the disciples about which of them was the greatest. 47 Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child and placed it by his side 48 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.” 49 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.” 50 Jesus said to him, “Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”

my reflections
t h i n k: he values of the Kingdom overturn those of our world.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
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T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

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READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Ezekiel 13-16

13-16

Daily Bible Readings

September 25, 2011
1st READING

It seemed unfair to the Jews that God did not just put our good deeds on one side of a scale and our evil deeds on the other. Many people still think that this is how God acts — that if our good deeds outweigh our evil deeds, we would go to heaven; if it’s the other way around, we go to hell. God says no, and that what matters is the state of one’s soul when one dies. If one repents of one’s sins, he is forgiven even at the moment of death.

Ezekiel 18:25-28
25 Thus says the LORD: You say, “The LORD’s way is not fair!” Hear now, house of Israel: Is it my way that is unfair, or rather, are not your ways unfair? 26 When someone virtuous turns away from virtue to commit iniquity, and dies, it is because of the iniquity he committed that he must die. 27 But if he turns from the wickedness he has committed, does what is right and just, he shall preserve his life; 28 since he has turned away from all the sins which he committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.

P S A L M

Psalms 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9
R: Remember your mercies, O Lord.
4 Your ways, O LORD, make known to me; teach me your paths, 5 guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior. (R) 6 Remember that your compassion, O LORD, and your kindness are from of old. 7 The sins of my youth and my frailties remember not; in your kindness remember me, because of your goodness, O LORD. (R) 8 Good and upright is the LORD; thus he shows sinners the way. 9 He guides the humble to justice, he teaches the humble his way. (R)

2nd READING
In the Incarnation, we see the true humility of God in His coming to us as man. Some interpret this to mean that Jesus was not God but just an angel or prophet. Let us not lose sight of the true nature of Christ as fully God and fully man. Only if Jesus is God can He reveal the Father to us and truly save us.

Philippians 2:1-11
1 Brothers and sisters: If there is any encouragement in Christ, any solace in love, any participation in the Spirit, any compassion and mercy, 2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing. 3 Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, 4 each looking out not for his own interests, but also for those of others. 5 Have in you the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus, 6 Who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. 7 Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, 8 he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. 9 Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

G O S P E L

In this parable, Jesus emphasizes that it is not our words that are most important but our actions. As the saying goes, “words are cheap.” Love is shown more in deeds than in words. Let us endeavor today to put our love into action in practical deeds rather than just in words or intentions.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

Matthew 21:28-32
28 Jesus said to the chief priests and elders of the people: “What is your opinion? A man had two sons. He came to the first and said, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ 29 He said in reply, ‘I will not,’ but afterwards he changed his mind and went. 30 The man came to the other son and gave the same order. He said in reply, ‘Yes, sir,’ but did not go. 31 Which of the two did his father’s will?” They answered, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. 32 When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did. Yet even when you saw that, you did not later change your minds and believe him.”

my reflections
t h i n k : What matters is the state of one’s soul when one dies.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
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T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

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READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Ezekiel 9-12
SABBATH PAUSE
My weekly time with God
THANK YOU LIST
Things to be grateful for from the past week
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SPECIAL NEEDS
Things to ask God for in the coming week
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HIDDEN TREASURE
Most important word God told me this week
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Daily Bible Readings

September 24, 2011
1st READING

God has always intended and longed to be among His people. When they journeyed out of Egypt, God traveled with them in a glory cloud over the tabernacle. When Solomon consecrated his temple, God’s presence and glory came to the Holy of Holies. In this text, God says that He will dwell in the midst of His people. For us, God dwells not just in our midst but in the depths of our hearts through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

Zechariah 2:5-9, 14-15
5 I, Zechariah, raised my eyes and looked: there was a man with a measuring line in his hand. 6 I asked, “Where are you going?” He answered, “To measure Jerusalem, to see how great is its width and how great its length.” 7 Then the angel who spoke with me advanced, and another angel came out to meet him, 8 and said to him, “Run, tell this to that young man: People will live in Jerusalem as though in open country, because of the multitude of men and beasts in her midst. 9 But I will be for her an encircling wall of fire, says the LORD, and I will be the glory in her midst.” 14 Sing and rejoice, O daughter Zion! See, I am coming to dwell among you, says the LORD. 15 Many nations shall join themselves to the LORD on that day, and they shall be his people, and he will dwell among you.

P S A L M

Jeremiah 31:10, 11-12, 13
R: The Lord will guard us as a shepherd guards his flock.
10 Hear the word of the LORD, O nations, proclaim it on distant isles, and say: He who scattered Israel, now gathers them together, he guards them as a shepherd his flock. (R) 11 The LORD shall ransom Jacob, he shall redeem him from the hand of his conqueror. (R) 12 Shouting, they shall mount the heights of Zion, they shall come streaming to the LORD’s blessings. (R) 13 Then the virgins shall make merry and dance, and young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into joy, I will console and gladden them after their sorrows. (R)

G O S P E L

Since the Apostles held to the popular ideas about what the coming Messiah would do, they could not conceive that this great King in the line of David would die a shameful death at the hands of their oppressors. This was directly opposite to their expectations. Even though Jesus told His disciples many times that He would die, they found it impossible to accept.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
Our Savior Christ Jesus destroyed death and brought life to light through the Gospel.
R: Alleluia, alleluia
Luke 9:43-45
43 While they were all amazed at his every deed, Jesus said to his disciples, 44 “Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men.” 45 But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.

my reflections
think: God dwells not just in our midst but in the depths of our hearts through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
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T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

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READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Baruch 5-8

Daily Bible Readings

September 23, 2011
1st READING

When the people looked at the new Temple and thought back about the old one of Solomon, the new one seemed to be rubbish in comparison. It must have been quite discouraging for them. They had only recently returned from exile and so did not have the huge wealth and resources that Solomon had to build his temple. God assures them not to worry as He will ensure that the Temple is so glorious that the old one will no longer be remembered. This points to the coming of Christ who is the New Temple of God. Now, in His risen and glorified body, this new Temple’s glory far outstrips all the glory of even Solomon’s temple.

Haggai 1:15-2:9
15 In the second year of King Darius, 2: 1 on the twenty-first day of the seventh month, the word of the LORD came through the prophet Haggai: 2 Tell this to the governor of Judah, Zerubbabel, son of Shealtiel, and to the high priest Joshua, son of Jehozadak, and to the remnant of the people: 3 Who is left among you that saw this house in its former glory? And how do you see it now? Does it not seem like nothing in your eyes? 4 But now take courage, Zerubbabel, says the LORD, and take courage, Joshua, high priest, son of Jehozadak, and take courage, all you people of the land, says the LORD, and work! For I am with you, says the LORD of hosts. 5 This is the pact that I made with you when you came out of Egypt, and my spirit continues in your midst; do not fear! 6 For thus says the LORD of hosts: One moment yet, a little while, and I will shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. 7 I will shake all the nations, and the treasures of all the nations will come in, and I will fill this house with glory, says the LORD of hosts. 8 Mine is the silver and mine the gold, says the LORD of hosts. 9 Greater will be the future glory of this house than the former, says the LORD of hosts; and in this place I will give you peace, says the LORD of hosts.

P S A L M

Psalms 43:1, 2, 3, 4
R: Hope in God: I will praise him, my savior and my God.
1 Do me justice, O God, and fight my fight against a faithless people; from the deceitful and impious man rescue me. (R) 2 For you, O God, are my strength. Why do you keep me so far away? Why must I go about in mourning, with the enemy oppressing me? (R) 3 Send forth your light and your fidelity; they shall lead me on and bring me to your holy mountain, to your dwelling-place. (R) 4 Then will I go in to the altar of God, the God of my gladness and joy; then will I give you thanks upon the harp, O God, my God! (R)

G O S P E L

It seems strange, isn’t it, that having asked the disciples who do they say He is and upon answering Him that He is the “Christ of God,” Jesus orders them to tell no one. The reason for His reticence to have Himself designated as the Christ of God was because of the people’s common understanding that He would be a conquering hero who would deliver them from the Roman occupation. Jesus’ mission was not to bring about political but spiritual freedom. Hence He preferred the title “Son of Man,” which emphasizes His ministry of service to God.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
The Son of Man came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

Luke 9:18-22
18 Once when Jesus was praying in solitude, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 They said in reply, “John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, ‘One of the ancient prophets has arisen.’” 20 Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said in reply, “The Christ of God.” 21 He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone. 22 He said, “The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.”


my reflections
t h i n k : Jesus’ mission was not to bring about political but spiritual freedom.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
_________________________________________________________

T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

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READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Baruch 1-4

Daily Bible Readings

September 22, 2011
1st READING

When the children of Israel returned to their land after their exile in Babylon, they had to rebuild their houses and establish their livelihood in order to begin their lives again. However, this became their sole preoccupation and so God sent His prophet, Haggai, to call them to reassess their priorities and to make the building of His Temple a priority. He indicates to them that many of their endeavors have not gone well because of their neglect to make His work a top priority. We, too, need to reassess our priorities to ensure that we give priority to our service to God.

Haggai 1:1-8
1 On the first day of the sixth month in the second year of King Darius, the word of the LORD came through the prophet Haggai to the governor of Judah, Zerubbabel, son of Shealtiel, and to the high priest Joshua, son of Jehozadak: 2 Thus says the LORD of hosts: This people says: “The time has not yet come to rebuild the house of the LORD.” 3 (Then this word of the LORD came through Haggai, the prophet:) 4 Is it time for you to dwell in your own paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? 5 Now thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways! 6 You have sown much, but have brought in little; you have eaten, but have not been satisfied; you have drunk, but have not been exhilarated; have clothed yourselves, but not been warmed; and he who earned wages earned them for a bag with holes in it. 7 Thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways! 8 Go up into the hill country; bring timber, and build the house that I may take pleasure in it and receive my glory, says the LORD.

P S A L M

Psalms 149:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 9
R: The Lord takes delight in his people.
1 Sing to the LORD a new song of praise in the assembly of the faithful. 2 Let Israel be glad in their maker, let the children of Zion rejoice in their king. (R) 3 Let them praise his name in the festive dance, let them sing praise to him with timbrel and harp. 4 For the LORD loves his people, and he adorns the lowly with victory. (R) 5 Let the faithful exult in glory; let them sing for joy upon their couches; 6 let the high praises of God be in their throats. 9 This is the glory of all his faithful. Alleluia. (R)

G O S P E L
Herod was a tetrach (meaning, he ruled over a fourth part of a Roman region) and was totally dependent on the good opinion of Rome for his position. Hence he was paranoid about his position and so anxious to maintain it. Having put to death John the Baptist, who had challenged his adulterous relationship with his brother’s wife, Herod is concerned that he may have risen from the dead and come to take revenge.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
I am the way and the truth and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the father except through me.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

Luke 9:7-9
7 Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, “John has been raised from the dead”; 8 others were saying, “Elijah has appeared”; still others, “One of the ancient prophets has arisen.” 9 But Herod said, “John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” And he kept trying to see him.

my reflections
t h i n k : W e need to reassess our priorities to ensure that we give priority to our service to God.



God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
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T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

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READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Baruch 4-6

Daily Bible Readings

September 21, 2011
1st READING

One thing that St. Paul constantly emphasized to his communities was that they should maintain unity. This is an important sign of the action of the Spirit as the evil spirit is always seeking to bring about conflict and division. Jesus, too, prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane for us to be one as He and the Father are one. Unfortunately, Church history is a sad tale of divisions and conflicts. Let us pray and work for reconciliation between all communities that believe in Jesus as God’s Son and Savior of the world.

Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-13
1 Brothers and sisters: I, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to live in a manner worthy of the call you have received, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love, 3 striving to preserve the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace: 4 one body and one Spirit, as you were also called to the one hope of your call; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. 7 But grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. 11 And he gave some as apostles, others as prophets, others as evangelists, others as pastors and teachers, 12 to equip the holy ones for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of faith and knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the extent of the full stature of Christ.

P S A L M

Psalms 19:2-3, 4-5
R: Their message goes out through all the earth.
1 [2] The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. 2 [3] Day pours out the word to day, and night to night imparts knowledge. (R) 3 [4] Not a word nor a discourse whose voice is not heard; 4 [5] through all the earth their voice resounds, and to the ends of the world, their message. (R)

G O S P E L

Jesus calls Matthew who had a rather unsavory job as a tax collector for the Roman authorities. Matthew responds to the call of Jesus and holds a banquet so that all his friends can meet Jesus as well. Many dishonest and questionable characters gather at Matthew’s house and the Pharisees complain that Jesus is sharing a meal with them, seemingly condoning their evil behavior. Jesus responds that He is there as a doctor for the sick — He comes not to condemn but heal them by His acceptance and love.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
We praise you, O God, we acclaim you as Lord; the glorious company
of Apostles praise you.
R: Alleluia, alleluia
Matthew 9:9-13
9 As Jesus passed by, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the customs post. He said to him, “Follow me.” And he got up and followed him. 10 While he was at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat with Jesus and his disciples. 11 The Pharisees saw this and said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 12 He heard this and said, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. 13 Go and learn the meaning of the words, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”

my reflections
t h i n k : Let us pray and work for reconciliation between all communities that believe in Jesus as God’s Son and the Savior of the world.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
_________________________________________________________

T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

_______________________________________________________

READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Baruch 1-3

Daily Bible Readings

September 20, 2011
1st READING

Finally after 70 years in exile, the people of Israel are able to return to their own land and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem that had been destroyed by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. This meant they could restore the temple sacrifices and worship and also celebrate the Passover, thus renewing the covenant that God had made with them through Moses. Let us pray today for all Christians who suffer persecution or are in prison and cannot partake of the Eucharist.

Ezra 6:7-8, 12, 14-20
7 King Darius issued an order to the officials of West-of-Euphrates: “Let the governor and the elders of the Jews continue to work on that house of God; they are to rebuild it on its former site. 8 I also issue this decree concerning your dealing with these elders of the Jews in the rebuilding of that house of God: From the royal revenue, the taxes of West-of-Euphrates, let these men be repaid for their expenses, in full and without delay. 12 I, Darius, have issued this decree; let it be carefully executed.” 14 The elders of the Jews continued to make progress in the building, supported by the message of the prophets, Haggai and Zechariah, son of Iddo. They finished the building according to the command of the God of Israel and the decrees of Cyrus and Darius and of Artaxerxes, king of Persia. 15 They completed this house on the third day of the month Adar, in the sixth year of the reign of King Darius. 16 The children of Israel — priests, Levites, and the other returned exiles — celebrated the dedication of this house of God with joy. 17 For the dedication of this house of God, they offered one hundred bulls, two hundred rams, and four hundred lambs, together with twelve he-goats as a sin-offering for all Israel, in keeping with the number of the tribes of Israel. 18 Finally, they set up the priests in their classes and the Levites in their divisions for the service of God in Jerusalem, as is prescribed in the book of Moses. 19 The exiles kept the Passover on the fourteenth day of the first month. 20 The Levites, every one of whom had purified himself for the occasion, sacrificed the Passover for the rest of the exiles, for their brethren the priests, and for themselves.

P S A L M
Psalms 122:1-2, 3-4, 4-5
R: Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
1 I rejoiced because they said to me, “We will go up to the house of the LORD.” 2 And now we have set foot within your gates, O Jerusalem. (R) 3 Jerusalem, built as a city with compact unity. 4 To it the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD. (R) According to the decree for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD. 5 In it are set up judgment seats, seats for the house of David. (R)

G O S P E L
Jesus is busy ministering to many people who are in need and is told that His mother and brothers (cousins) are there so He should stop what He is doing and attend to their needs. Jesus responds that all who do the Father’s will are His mother and His brothers, so He is obligated to them all and not just His blood relatives. Mary is Jesus’ mother first in her faith and obedience to God’s will and then, as a result of this, through the conception of the Son of God.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
Blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it.
R: Alleluia, alleluia
ntations 1-5
Luke 8:19-21
19 The mother of Jesus and his brothers came to him but were unable to join him because of the crowd. 20 He was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside and they wish to see you.” 21 He said to them in reply, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”

my reflections
t h i n k : Let us pray today for all Christians who suffer persecution or are in prison and cannot partake of the Eucharist.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
_________________________________________________________

T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

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READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Lamentations 1-5

Daily Bible Readings

September 19, 2011
1st READING

The Prophet Jeremiah had prophesied that the children of Israel would be in captivity in Babylon for 70 years and after this time would return to their homeland. This text from Ezra tells us of the proclamation of King Cyrus of Persia in allowing the exiles to return to their land. Just as in the exodus from Egypt the Israelites were assisted by their captors, so here the king commands the people to assist them with gold and silver. In this story we can see how God’s plans are wonderfully fulfilled and how He goes before His people.

Ezra 1:1-6
1 In the first year of Cyrus, king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken by Jeremiah, the LORD inspired King Cyrus of Persia to issue this proclamation throughout his kingdom, both by word of mouth and in writing: 2 “Thus says Cyrus, king of Persia: ‘All the kingdoms of the earth the LORD, the God of heaven, has given to me, and he has also charged me to build him a house in Jerusalem, which is in Judah. 3 Therefore, whoever among you belongs to any part of his people, let him go up, and may his God be with him! 4 Let everyone who has survived, in whatever place he may have dwelt, be assisted by the people of that place with silver, gold, goods, and cattle, together with free-will offerings for the house of God in Jerusalem.’ ” 5 Then the family heads of Judah and Benjamin and the priests and Levites — everyone, that is, whom God had inspired to do so — prepared to go up to build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem. 6 All their neighbors gave them help in every way, with silver, gold, goods, and cattle, and with many precious gifts besides all their free-will offerings.

P S A L M
Psalms 126:1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 6
R: The Lord has done marvels for us.
1 When the LORD brought back the captives of Zion, we were like men dreaming. 2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with ejoicing. (R) Then they said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.” 3 The LORD has done great things for us; we are glad indeed. (R) 4 Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like the torrents in the southern desert. 5 Those that sow in tears shall reap rejoicing. (R) 6 Although they go forth weeping, carrying the seed to be sown, they shall come back rejoicing, carrying their sheaves. (R)

G O S P E L
God gives us His law and His wisdom for us to use and put into action in our lives. We should not hide our gifts. Rather, we should use them to bring glory to God. When we share our knowledge and gifts they increase; if we keep them hidden they eventually perish. So let us be active in seeking ways to share God’s message of love and be generous in the use of our gifts and talents.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

Luke 8:16-18
16 Jesus said to the crowd: “No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light. 18 Take care, then, how you hear. To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.”

my reflections
t h i n k : When we share our knowledge and gifts they increase; if we keep them hidden they eventually perish.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
_________________________________________________________

T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

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READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Jeremiah 50-52

Daily Bible Readings

September 18, 2011
1st READING

Every day we should seek God and His presence and grace. That means that we should try to keep an awareness of God with us throughout the day and not just when we are praying. It can be helpful to have a picture of Jesus or a crucifix near us so that we are reminded of God’s presence with us. Praying the Angelus and the rosary during the day can help us keep our minds and hearts attuned to God’s presence.

Isaiah 55:6-9
6 Seek the LORD while he may be found, call him while he is near. 7 Let the scoundrel forsake his way, and the wicked his thoughts; let him turn to the LORD for mercy; to our God, who is generous in forgiving. 8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the LORD. 9 As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways above your ways and my thoughts above your thoughts.

P S A L M

Psalms 145:2-3, 8-9, 17-18
R: The Lord is near to all who call upon him.
2 Every day will I bless you, and I will praise your name forever and ever. 3 Great is the LORD and highly to be praised; his greatness is unsearchable. (R) 8 The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness. 9 The LORD is good to all and compassionate toward all his works. (R) 17 The LORD is just in all his ways and holy in all his works. 18 The LORD is near to all who call upon him, to all who call upon him in truth. (R)

2nd READING

St. Paul, who had visions of heaven, knew how wonderful it would be to leave this world and be with God forever. Hence, he is caught between two good things — to depart and to be with God or to remain on earth and continue his ministry to the Christian communities. Either way, Paul wanted his life to be an offering to the Lord and to bear fruit for God’s Kingdom. The value of a life is not in its length but in the love of God that it reveals.

Philippians 1:20-24, 27
20 Brothers and sisters: Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death.21 For to me life is Christ, and death is gain. 22 If I go on living in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. And I do not know which I shall choose. 23 I am caught between the two. I long to depart this life and be with Christ, for that is far better. 24 Yet that I remain in the flesh is more necessary for your benefit. 27 Only, conduct yourselves in a way worthy of the gospel of Christ.

G O S P E L

The parable of the landowner teaches us that God calls men and women to serve in His vineyard, His Kingdom. Whether we are called when we are young or old is not important; what is important is that we serve God and do His will. Each person who faithfully serves God, whether for many years or just a short time, will receive the reward of eternal life in heaven. Let us be faithful to the call God has placed on our lives so we each can receive our reward.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
Open our hearts, O Lord, to listen to the words of your Son.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

Matthew 20:1-16
1 Jesus told his disciples this parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out at dawn to hire laborers for his vineyard. 2 After agreeing with them for the usual daily wage, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 Going out about nine o’clock, he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, 4 and he said to them, ‘You too go into my vineyard, and I will give you what is just.’ 5 So they went off. And he went out again around noon, and around three o’clock, and did likewise. 6 Going out about five o’clock, he found others standing around, and said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’ 7 They answered, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You too go into my vineyard.’ 8 When it was evening the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Summon the laborers and give them their pay, beginning with the last and ending with the first.’ 9 When those who had started about five o’clock came, each received the usual daily wage. 10 So when the first came, they thought that they would receive more, but each of them also got the usual wage. 11 And on receiving it they grumbled against the landowner, 12 saying, ‘These last ones worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us, who bore the day’s burden and the heat.’ 13 He said to one of them in reply, ‘My friend, I am not cheating you. Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? 14 Take what is yours and go. What if I wish to give this last one the same as you? 15 Or am I not free to do as I wish with my own money? Are you envious because I am generous?’ 16 Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.”

my reflections
t h i n k : The value of a life is not in its length but in the love of God that it reveals.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
_________________________________________________________

T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

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READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Jeremiah 47-49
SABBATH PAUSE
My weekly time with God
THANK YOU LIST
Things to be grateful for from the past week
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SPECIAL NEEDS
Things to ask God for in the coming week
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HIDDEN TREASURE
Most important word God told me this week
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Daily Bible Readings

September 17, 2011
1st READING
St. Paul uses the courage and example of Jesus’ testimony under Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, to inspire Timothy to also bear courageous witness for his faith. The lives and examples of the saints and martyrs are inspiration for us as well to not deny our faith even when being true to our beliefs would upset people and cause us to suffer.

1 Timothy 6:13-16
13 Beloved: I charge you before God, who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus, who gave testimony under Pontius Pilate for the noble confession, 14 to keep the commandment without stain or reproach until the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ 15 that the blessed and only ruler will make manifest at the proper time, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone has immortality, who dwells in unapproachable light, and whom no human being has seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal power. Amen.

P S A L M

Psalms 100:1-2, 3, 4, 5
R: Come with joy into the presence of the Lord.
1 Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands; 2 serve the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful song. (R) 3 Know that the LORD is God; he made us, his we are; his people, the flock he tends. (R) 4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, his courts with praise; give thanks to him; bless his name. (R) 5 For he is good: the LORD, whose kindness endures forever, and his faithfulness, to all generations. (R)

G O S P E L

Jesus often used images from everyday life to illustrate a spiritual truth. Here, He uses the familiar image of a sower sowing seeds. The seed, or the Word of God, is good and, as Isaiah tells us, will always bear fruit. However, it needs the right soil if it is to be really fruitful. Our hearts can become hardened at times and we need to turn it over to God if we want His Word to enter in and bear fruit. By repentance we allow our hearts to become receptive to God’s Word and to be fertile soil.

Luke 8:4-15

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
Blessed are they who have kept the word with a generous heart and yield a harvest through perseverance.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

4 When a large crowd gathered, with people from one town after another journeying to Jesus, he spoke in a parable. 5 “A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path and was trampled, and the birds of the sky ate it up. 6 Some seed fell on rocky ground, and when it grew, it withered for lack of moisture. 7 Some seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew with it and choked it. 8 And some seed fell on good soil, and when it grew, it produced fruit a hundredfold.” After saying this, he called out, “Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.” 9 Then his disciples asked him what the meaning of this parable might be. 10 He answered, “Knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of God has been granted to you; but to the rest, they are made known through parables so that ‘they may look but not see, and hear but not understand.’ 11 This is the meaning of the parable. The seed is the word of God. 12 Those on the path are the ones who have heard, but the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts that they may not believe and be saved. 13 Those on rocky ground are the ones who, when they hear, receive the word with joy, but they have no root; they believe only for a time and fall away in time of trial. 14 As for the seed that fell among thorns, they are the ones who have heard, but as they go along, they are choked by the anxieties and riches and pleasures of life, and they fail to produce mature fruit. 15 But as for the seed that fell on rich soil, they are the ones who, when they have heard the word, embrace it with a generous and good heart, and bear fruit through perseverance.”

my reflections
t h i n k : By repentance we allow our hearts to become receptive to God’s Word and to be fertile soil.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
_________________________________________________________

T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

_______________________________________________________

READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Jeremiah 43-46

Daily Bible Readings

September 16, 2011
1st READING
Many people allow themselves to enter into rivalries and arguments with others, including lawsuits that ultimately are futile and only fill them with turmoil and anger. This is not what God wants for His children. The endless pursuit of money and possessions will not bring peace and joy to our hearts. Rather, Paul tells us to be content with what we have and pursue holiness, which has an eternal reward.

1 Timothy 6:2-12
2 Beloved: Teach and urge these things. 3 Whoever teaches something different and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the religious teaching 4 is conceited, understanding nothing, and has a morbid disposition for arguments and verbal disputes. From these come envy, rivalry, insults, evil suspicions, 5 and mutual friction among people with corrupted minds, who are deprived of the truth, supposing religion to be a means of gain. 6 Indeed, religion with contentment is a great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, just as we shall not be able to take anything out of it. 8 If we have food and clothing, we shall be content with that. 9 Those who want to be rich are falling into temptation and into a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge them into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is the root of all evils, and some people in their desire for it have strayed from the faith and have pierced themselves with many pains. 11 But you, man of God, avoid all this. Instead, pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness. 12 Compete well for the faith. Lay hold of eternal life, to which you were called when you made the noble confession in the presence of many witnesses.

P S A L M

Psalms 49:6-7, 8-10, 17-18, 19-20
R: Blessed the poor in spirit; the Kingdom of heaven is theirs!
5 [6] Why should I fear in evil days when my wicked ensnarers ring me round? 6 [7] They trust in their wealth; the abundance of their riches is their boast. (R) 7 [8] Yet in no way can a man redeem himself, or pay his own ransom to God; 8 [9] too high is the price to redeem one’s life; he would never have enough 9 [10] to remain alive always and not see destruction. (R) 16 [17] Fear not when a man grows rich, when the wealth of his house becomes great, 17 [18] for when he dies, he shall take none of it; his wealth shall not follow him down. (R) 18 [19] Though in his lifetime he counted himself blessed, “They will praise you for doing well for yourself,” 19 [20] he shall join the circle of his forebears who shall never more see light. (R)

G O S P E L

While Jesus chose 12 disciples to be His closest associates, many other people also followed Him and were part of His apostolic band. These included a number of women who provided for Jesus and His Apostles out of their own resources. Hence, we see that each of us can have a part in promoting the work of God. It is up to God what our role is. What matters is that we be obedient and faithful to what the Lord asks us to do.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

Luke 8:1-3
1 Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. Accompanying him were the Twelve 2 and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3 Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their resources.

my reflections
t hink: What matters is that we be obedient and faithful to what the Lord asks us to do.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
_________________________________________________________

T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

_______________________________________________________

READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Jeremiah 39-42

Daily Bible Readings

September 15, 2011
1st READING

Timothy was a young man and had a great deal of responsibility. Some may have been tempted to look down on him because of his youth and inexperience in life. The Apostle Paul encourages him to be a good example and to use his gifts in his teaching and preaching ministries to strengthen the Christians’ faith. Each of us has a spiritual gift that we should also use in our God-given ministries to build His kingdom.

1 Timothy 4:12-16 (or Hebrews 5:7-9)
12 Beloved: Let no one have contempt for your youth, but set an example for those who believe, in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. 13 Until I arrive, attend to the reading, exhortation, and teaching. 14 Do not neglect the gift you have, which was conferred on you through the prophetic word with the imposition of hands of the presbyterate. 15 Be diligent in these matters, be absorbed in them, so that your progress may be evident to everyone. 16 Attend to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in both tasks, for by doing so you will save both yourself and those who listen to you.

P S A L M

Psalms 111:7-8, 9, 10 (or Psalms 31:2-3, 3-4, 5-6, 15-16, 20)
R: How great are the works of the Lord.
7 The works of his hands are faithful and just; sure are all his precepts, 8 reliable forever and ever, wrought in truth and equity. (R) 9 He has sent deliverance to his people; he has ratified his covenant forever; holy and awesome is his name. (R) 10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; prudent are all who live by it. His praise endures forever. (R)

G O S P E L

Mary stood at the foot of the cross during the hours of Jesus’ most painful passion. How profoundly did Mary feel and enter into the sufferings of her Son for the salvation of the world. Having experienced the depths of human suffering, she is able to enter also into our suffering and bring her motherly comfort and succor. Let us invite Mary to take up abode in our hearts and bring us her comfort and consolation.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest, says the Lord.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

John 19:25-27 (or Luke 2:33-35 or Luke 7:36-50)
25 Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. 26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” 27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.

my reflections
t h i n k : L et us invite Mary to take up abode in our hearts and bring us her comfort and consolation.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
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T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

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READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Jeremiah 35-38

Daily Bible Readings

September 14, 2011
1st READING

The image of a bronze serpent on a pole foreshadowed the true cross of Christ, which would become the source of all our healing from the bites of Satan and his kingdom. Yet as the children of Israel only had to look to the bronze serpent on the pole to be healed, so we need only to look with faith to Christ crucified to be healed of our sins.

Numbers 21:4-9
4 With their patience worn out by the journey, 5 the people complained against God and Moses, “Why have you brought us up from Egypt to die in this desert, where there is no food or water? We are disgusted with this wretched food!” 6 In punishment the LORD sent among the people seraph serpents, which bit the people so that many of them died. 7 Then the people came to Moses and said, “We have sinned in complaining against the LORD and you. Pray the LORD to take the serpents from us.” So Moses prayed for the people, 8 and the LORD said to Moses, “Make a saraph and mount it on a pole, and if anyone who has been bitten looks at it, he will recover.” 9 Moses accordingly made a bronze serpent and mounted it on a pole, and whenever anyone who had been bitten by a serpent looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.

P S A L M

Psalms 78:1-2, 34-35, 36-37, 38
R: Do not forget the works of the Lord!
1 Hearken, my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth. 2 I will open my mouth in a parable, I will utter mysteries from of old. (R) 34 While he slew them they sought him and inquired after God again, 35 remembering that God was their rock and the Most High God, their redeemer. (R) 36 But they flattered him with their mouths and lied to him with their tongues, 37 though their hearts were not steadfast toward him, nor were they faithful to his covenant. (R) 38 But he, being merciful, forgave their sin and destroyed them not; often he turned back his anger and let none of his wrath be roused. (R)

2nd READING

Because of Jesus’ great humility in subjecting Himself to death for our sake, God has exalted Him above every other name in heaven and on earth. This way, we can have absolute confidence in the power of the name and the blood of Jesus to free us from all evil. Satan and all the powers of hell tremble at the name of Jesus and must submit themselves to His will.

Philippians 2:6-11
6 Brothers and sisters: Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. 7 Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, 8 he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. 9 Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

G O S P E L

Jesus reveals to the member of the Sanhedrin, Nicodemus, that he cannot enter the reign of God unless he is born again. It is to the Son, who has come down from heaven, that the Father has entrusted His plan of salvation. Only with faith in Him can we be saved. In Jesus, God the Father reveals His heart of mercy and love.
Jeremiah 31-34
ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you, because by your Cross you have redeemed the world.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

John 3:13-17
13 Jesus said to Nicodemus: “No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. 14 And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” 16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.

my reflections
think: As the children of Israel only had to look to the bronze serpent on the pole to be healed, so we need only to look with faith to Christ crucified to be healed of our sins.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
_________________________________________________________

T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

_______________________________________________________

READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Jeremiah 31-34

Daily Bible Readings

September 13, 2011
1st READING

St. Paul describes the qualities that should be evident in the leaders of the Church, whether they be bishops, priests, deacons or virgins. It is not wealth, talents, or intelligence that are the main qualities but virtues and nobleness of character. Serious moral faults not only soil the name of the Church in the eyes of unbelievers but make the ministers ineffective to bring about the Kingdom of God. Let us pray for all those who minister in the Catholic Church so that, through their lives, they may give a wholesome witness to the Gospel.

1 Timothy 3:1-13
1 Beloved: this saying is trustworthy: whoever aspires to the office of bishop desires a noble task. 2 Therefore, a bishop must be irreproachable, married only once, temperate, self-controlled, decent, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not a drunkard, not aggressive, but gentle, not contentious, not a lover of money. 4 He must manage his own household well, keeping his children under control with perfect dignity; 5 for if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how can he take care of the church of God? 6 He should not be a recent convert, so that he may not become
conceited and thus incur the devil’s punishment. 7 He must also have a good reputation among outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, the devil’s trap. 8 Similarly, deacons must be dignified, not deceitful, not addicted to drink, not greedy for sordid gain, 9 holding fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 Moreover, they should be tested first; then, if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. 11 Women, similarly, should be dignified, not slanderers, but temperate and faithful in everything. 12 Deacons may be married only once and must manage their children and their households well. 13 Thus those who serve well as deacons gain good standing and much confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.

P S A L M

Psalms 101:1-2, 2-3, 5, 6
R: I will walk with blameless heart.
1 Of mercy and judgment I will sing; to you, O LORD, I will sing praise. 2 I will persevere in the way of integrity; when will you come to me? (R) I will walk in the blameless heart, within my house; 3 I will not set before my eyes any base thing. (R) 5 Whoever slanders his neighbor in secret, him will I destroy. The man of haughty eyes and puffed-up heart I will not endure. (R) 6 My eyes are upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me. He who walks in the way of integrity shall be in my service. (R)

G O S P E L

In Papua New Guinea, where I worked for five years, I saw two rivers join — one very large and powerful and its water pure, the other one smaller with muddy water. As they joined, the powerful river swallowed up the muddy river and made it clean. In this story of Jesus raising the boy in Nain, we see one river, Christ and His Kingdom, joining to the other river, the procession of death. Jesus’ river swallows up the other and transforms it into life.
Jeremiah 27-30
ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
A great prophet has arisen in our midst and God has visited his people.
R: Alleluia, alleluia

Luke 7:11-17
11 Jesus journeyed to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd accompanied him. 12 As he drew near to the gate of the city, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the city was with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, “Do not weep.” 14 He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” 15 The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. 16 Fear seized them all, and they glorified God, exclaiming, “A great prophet has arisen in our midst,” and “God has visited his people.” 17 This report about him spread through the whole of Judea and in all the surrounding region.

my reflections
think: Let us pray for all those who minister in the Catholic Church so that, through their lives, they may give a wholesome witness to the Gospel.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
_________________________________________________________

T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

_______________________________________________________

READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Jeremiah 27-30

Daily Bible Readings

September 12, 2011
1st READING

St. Paul instructs Timothy to tell the people that they should pray for the leaders of their country so that the leaders may be given the wisdom to rule well. It is easy to find fault with political leaders as they have many glaring faults and weaknesses. St. Paul does not say we should find fault but pray. Let us make a commitment to avoid gossip and fruitless chatter about leaders and their faults, and instead pray for them.

1 Timothy 2:1-8
1 Beloved: First of all, I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, 2 for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. 3 This is good and pleasing to God our savior, 4 who wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God. There is also one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as ransom for all. This was the testimony at the proper time. 7 For this I was appointed preacher and apostle (I am speaking the truth, I am not lying), teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8 It is my wish, then, that in every place the men should pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or argument.

P S A L M

Psalms 28:2, 7, 8-9
R: Blessed be the Lord, for he has heard my prayer.
2 Hear the sound of my pleading, when I cry to you, lifting up my hands toward your holy shrine. (R) 7 The LORD is my strength and my shield. In him my heart trusts, and I find help; then my heart exults, and with my song I give him thanks. (R) 8 The LORD is the strength of his people, the saving refuge of his anointed. 9 Save your people, and bless your inheritance; feed them, and carry them forever! (R)

G O S P E L

This Roman centurion was a man in a place of great authority and had under his command 100 soldiers who obeyed his every command. When he comes to seek Jesus’ assistance to heal one of his trusted servants, he follows the usual custom of sending representatives to seek Jesus’ aid. Although he is a man in authority, he is also humble and does not feel worthy to have Jesus enter his roof. Instead he just asks Jesus to speak a command as he would to his soldiers, and he knows that Jesus’ words have power to heal his servant even from afar.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life.
R: Alleluia, alleluia
Luke 7:1-10
1 When Jesus had finished all his words to the people, he entered Capernaum. 2 A centurion there had a slave who was ill and about to die, and he was valuable to him. 3 When he heard about Jesus, he sent elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and save the life of his slave. 4 They approached Jesus and strongly urged him b, saying, “He deserves to have you do this for him, 5 for he loves our nation and he built the synagogue for us.” 6 And Jesus went with them, but when he was only a short distance from the house, the centurion sent friends to tell him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof. 7 Therefore, I did not consider myself worthy to come to you; but say the word and let my servant be healed. 8 For I too am a person subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come here,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9 When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him and, turning, said to the crowd following him, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” 10 When the messengers returned to the house, they found the slave in good health.

my reflections
t h i n k : Let us make a commitment to avoid gossip and fruitless chatter about leaders and their faults, and instead pray for them.

God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
_________________________________________________________

T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

_______________________________________________________

READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Jeremiah 23-26

Daily Bible Readings

September 11, 2011
1st READING

Both the Old and New Testaments teach us clearly that if we want God to forgive our sins, then we must first forgive those who have sinned against us. If we ask God to heal us of our sickness, Sirach tells us we must put aside our anger towards others. Otherwise we will not receive the healing we are praying for. Let us pray today for the grace to forgive even those who have greatly wronged us.

Sirach 27:30-28:7
30 Wrath and anger are hateful things, yet the sinner hugs them tight. 28: 1 The vengeful will suffer the LORD’s vengeance, for he remembers their sins in detail. 2 Forgive your neighbor’s injustice; then when you pray, your own sins will be forgiven. 3 Could anyone nourish anger against his fellows and expect healing from the LORD? 4 Could anyone refuse mercy to another like himself, can he seek pardon for his own sins? 5 If one who is but flesh cherishes wrath, who will forgive his sins? 6 Remember your last days, set enmity aside; remember death and decay, and cease from sin! 7 Think of the commandments, hate not your neighbor; of the Most High’s covenant, and overlook faults.

P S A L M

Psalms 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12
R: The Lord is kind and merciful, slow to anger, and rich in compassion.
1 Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all my being, bless his holy name. 2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. (R) 3 He pardons all your iniquities, he heals all your ills. 4 He redeems your life from destruction, he crowns you with kindness and compassion. (R) 9 He will not always chide, nor does he keep his wrath forever. 10 Not according to our sins does he deal with us, nor does he requite us according to our crimes. (R) 11 For as the heavens are high above the earth, so surpassing is his kindness toward those who fear him. 12 As far as the east is from the west, so far has he put our transgressions from us. (R)

2nd READING

The Apostle Paul was very aware of the importance of the Body of Christ and how, as Christians, we are all intimately connected in a mysterious way in the Spirit. What I do or fail to do impacts others in the Body of Christ. Each day we should be aware of our obligations and responsibilities to live a life worthy of the Lord, both when people observe us and when we are alone.

Romans 14:7-9
7 Brothers and sisters: None of us lives for oneself, and no one dies for oneself. 8 For if we live, we live for the Lord, and if we die, we die for the Lord; so then, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. 9 For this is why Christ died and came to life, that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living.

G O S P E L

The Jewish Rabbis taught that one was obligated to forgive a person four times for their sins. Peter therefore thinks he is being very generous and merciful when he suggests to Jesus that he would forgive seven times. However, Jesus makes it clear that there should be no limit to our mercy just as God forgives us endlessly.

ALLELUIA
R: Alleluia, alleluia
I give you a new commandment, says the Lord; love one another as I have loved you.

R: Alleluia, alleluia
Matthew 18:21-35
21 Peter approached Jesus and asked him, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him? As many as seven times?” 22 Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times. 23 T hat is why the kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who decided to settle accounts with his servants. 24 When he began the accounting, a debtor was brought before him who owed him a huge amount. 25 Since he had no way of paying it back, his master ordered him to be sold, along with his wife, his children, and all his property, in payment of the debt. 26 At that, the servant fell down, did him homage, and said, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back in full.’ 27 Moved with compassion the master of that servant let him go and forgave him the loan. 28 When that servant had left, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a much smaller amount. He seized him and started to choke him, demanding, ‘Pay back what you owe.’ 29 Falling to his knees, his fellow servant begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.’ 30 But he refused. Instead, he had him put in prison until he paid back the debt. 31 Now when his fellow servants saw what had happened, they were deeply disturbed, and went to their master and reported the whole affair. 32 His master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to. 33 Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant, as I had pity on you?’ 34 Then in anger his master handed him over to the torturers until he should pay back the whole debt. 35 So will my heavenly Father do to you, unless each of you forgives his brother from his heart.”

my reflections
t h i n k : What I do or fail to do impacts others in the Body of Christ.
God’s special verse/thought for me today________________
_________________________________________________________

T O D A Y ’ S BLESSING LIST
Thank You Lord for: ____________________________________

_______________________________________________________

READ THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR Jeremiah 19-22

SABBATH PAUSE
My weekly time with God
THANK YOU LIST
Things to be grateful for from the past week