The Last Hour, A New Beginning

Seventh Day within the Octave of the Nativity of The Lord

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Gospel of John 1:1-18

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  He was in the beginning with God.  All things came to be through him, and without him nothing can be.

Wow, I can't believe 2013 is coming to a end.  This year has gone by so quickly. At this time, I begin to do a self-assessment of my accomplishments and challenges.  I'm very blessed to say this year was very good.  Yes, The Lord did throw some curve balls and a few unwelcomed surprises, especially in regards to home repairs, but overall things went well.  I feel like I'm closer to Christ, especially in his Word reflected in holy scripture.  Setting aside time each day to write a meditation has been a work in progress,  something I had to get in the habit of doing.  Now I find writing a wonderful way of praying and engaging in conversation with God.  I know he's been trying to dialog with me for so long, but I've allowed busyness to push him away.  Daily meditation allows me to open and expand my mind. Get the creative juices flowing!  The Holy Spirit always seems to spark ideas. All I have to do is observe my surroundings.  Be aware of what's happening in the world around me.  Nine out of ten times the gospel reading of the day coincides with something personal in my life.  God's presence is there!

In a God-instance. I no longer believe in coincidences.  A fellow student in a catechetical course I took a few years expressed the term "God-instance" for the times in our lives things seem to happen in an eerily familiar way.  God shapes circumstances in our lives to challenge us and allow us to grow.  I'm so blessed by special people who've entered my life this year.  Or, the times things seem to happen unexpected that help me along the way.  I think there is no defined reason why certain situations arise. They just happen because God allows them.  I've always believed it's God's will when certain people enter and leave my life. Most of the time those who leave were bad for me to begin with!  I cherish my friends and acquaintances who are still a part of my life.  They may be gone in a "God-instant" so I should keep them close.  God-instances occur all the time and can be fun to look out for.

The Last a Hour, A New Beginning  As a a Southern tradition, I already have my blackened peas for good luck ready for the New Year.  I've begun to list New Year's resolutions, many of them devoted to exploring my Catholic Faith more deeply.  In the last hour with a new beginning on the horizon, I wish to continue to mature and grow.  Work on my weaknesses so they aren't so burdensome.  Find ways to stay better connected to friends who all seem to be crazy busy.  Take time for daily prayer, meditation, and the rosary.  Explore ways I can evangelize Christ's message in a way that is inviting.  Become a better financial steward and use my money wisely.  Overall, I need to get out of myself.  As an introvert by nature, it's difficult for me to get out and socialize.  I look forward to the joys and challenges of 2014.  I trust it will be another amazing year of spiritual growth!

Have A Blessed New Year!!

-J.

Anna, the Prophetess

Sixth Day within the Octave of the Nativity of the Lord

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Gospel of Luke 2:36-40

There was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher.  She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four.  She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer.  And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.

Anna the Prophetess  In today's gospel, we read about Anna the Prophetess who was one of the first to announce the good news of Christ.  During the presentation of Jesus in the temple, she praised God knowing this special child would redeem the world.  She had been waiting years for the coming of a savior.   Anna never left the temple, worshiping day and night with fasting and prayer.  I wonder if people considered poor Anna as just an old senile woman.  She  mumbled prayers all day long, barely ate, and obviously had nobody to care for her since she lived in the temple! I think of Anna as a fine example of devoutness to God.  Even in her old age, she remained vigilant in prayer.  Her prayers were finally answered with the birth of Christ.  God's merciful providence revealed!

I write to you   We have been blessed by scripture readings from the First Letter of John during this Octave.  In today's first reading, John mentions writing to fathers, young men, children, etc. about the word of God, conquering the Evil One, and forgiving sins.  He warns:  Do not love the world or the things of the world.  If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

I've always loved to write.  Before the age of email, I used to hand write letters to friends and family members.  I found it very intimate, personal and refreshing.  With digital everything now, that intimacy is somewhat lost.  Just think back in biblical times writing was painstakingly difficult.  Literacy was only available to the learned and the wealthy.  People told stories verbally before they ever learned to write them down.  

Handwriting is a dying art!  I remember spending hours in school perfecting my handwriting.  I always wanted to write legibly and beautifully.  Today cursive is barely taught in school.  Spelling and grammar has taken a backslide.  People write sentences more often in text-language than correct English.  It really saddens me since English and literature has always been something I loved.  

I thank God every day that the sacred writers took the time to transpose and record stories of the Old and New Testaments.  What if they were lazy like so many "writers" today and didn't carefully check their spelling and grammar?  What if the bible was all text-talk?  Can you imagine the confusion?  It's difficult enough to interpret the bible, but if the stories had not be written well they would never have survived long enough for us to cherish them.

Let us take time to prayerfully read scripture this week.  Why don't we write a letter to a friend or a relative telling them how much we love them? 

I write to you, Dear Lord.  Thank you for all of your infinite blessings.....

Prophetess Anna, Pray for Us!

-J.

The Holy Family

Saint Francis with the Holy Family

The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph

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Gospel of Matthew 2:12-14, 19-23

Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt.  They stayed there until the death of Herod, that what the Lord has said through the prophet might be fulfilled,"Out of Egypt I called my son"......

Today we celebrate the feast of the Holy Family - Jesus, Mary and Joseph. This small family from Nazareth exemplified love, compassion, and devotion.  Many people think the holy family was perfect.  Far from it!  They struggled just like families today.  Even though Mary and Jesus were sinless it didn't mean they didn't feel fear, anger, and frustration. In fact, with Joseph as head of their family, they were faced with incredible challenges.  While escaping King Herod's death trap, the Holy family became unified and strengthened.  They were scared and troubled but didn't think twice about turning away from one another. Prayer became the sustaining force in their family relationship.  Their lives were centered around God.  The Holy Family turned to Our Lord for help in difficult times and praised Him in glorious times.  

How can the Holy Family be a model in our own families?

Be Patient Patience has become a bad word in today's society of instant gratification. Children demand of their parents the latest toys and gadgets.  Mothers and fathers often bicker at one another because so and so forgot to do something.  A father may become impatient with his son who is slow at an athletic sport he himself was great at.  A mother may become impatient with her wiggle-worm toddler who cannot keep her tiny hands off of breakables!  Patience is one of the most important virtues for us to master, especially in our relationships. When we become impatient, we can harbor resentment.  When we become impatient, we can think the worst of our loved ones.  Mary and Joseph may have felt annoyed and frightened when Jesus ran off to preach in the temple.  But, they patiently sought him out and found him, recognizing  he was doing the Lord's work.

Seek Forgiveness- This is a biggy.  Probably one of the best ways to heal a broken family is through an act of forgiveness.  The Holy Family stuck it out when faced with challenges, but a majority of families today do not.  Divorce is commonplace. Children wanting nothing to do with their parents, often pushing them away has become increasingly familiar.  If only parents and children could learn to forgive one another  relationships can be saved.  Forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting.  Forgiveness means opening one's heart to a loved one and repent for one's harmful actions.  Jesus and his mother Mary forgive us all the time!  Why can't we do the same toward our loved ones?  I'm sure Joseph sought Mary's forgiveness when he mistakenly thought she was pregnant out of wedlock.  It took an angel of the Lord to set Joseph's mind straight.  It takes faith in the Lord to set our mind's straight!

Compassion & Care-  The first reading from the Book of Sirach says:

My son, take care of your father when he is old; grieve him not as long as he lives.  Even if his mind fail, be considerate of him; revile him not all the days of his life; kindness to a father will not be forgotten, firmly planted against the debt of your sins -a house raised in justice for you.

Compassion and care for both our aging mothers and fathers is something Mary and Joseph would have done. I can imagine they took care of Saint Ann and Saint Joachim in their aging years. The wisdom of the elders was highly prized in the ancient world.  Unfortunately, in our society where youth rules and many are trying to drink from the "fountain of youth," our elderly are thrown aside as garbage.  They are ignored by their own children, thrown into nursing homes against their will. Oftentimes the elderly find themselves at the mercy of others to care for them. They are abused and neglected.  The Holy Family symbolizes compassion and care for everyone regardless if they are unborn or elderly. Our Lord looks highly on those who care for those who are sick, aging, abused, and neglected.  Compassion and care for our parents is something we should all commit to do.  Patience and forgiveness will ease the burden.

As the New Year approaches, we should make a resolution to honor our families!  Make a commitment to be more patient, forgiving, compassionate, and loving.  Make it a priority to strengthen and unify the family.  Make time each day to pray as a family.  This is something lacking in all of the life's busyness.  Communicating through prayer allows the light of Christ to bless our families during times of struggles as well as during times of joyfulness.  Let us refrain from individualistic tendencies and learn to enjoy the many blessings of the family bond!

-J. 

The White-Robed Army of Innocents

Feast of the Holy Innocents, Martyrs

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Gospel of Matthew 2:13-18

When Herod realized that he had been deceived by the magi, he became furious.  He ordered the massacre of all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had ascertained from the magi.......

Herod's Massacre This Feast Day is a tough one for me. My heart swells with compassion for these sweet little children so brutally massacred.  Even though I have never had children of my own, I can imagine the deep sadness and anger parents felt.  Why on earth massacre every boy under the age of 2 in Bethlehem?  Why did Herod take his fury against the magi on innocent babes?  Herod was foolish and ignorant to think even one of these massacred boys could be the Christ Child! Just like Baby Moses was saved from Pharoah's massacre, the Christ child was saved, too.  Once again an angel visited Joseph in a dream warning him to flee the land with his family. 

Saint Quodvultdeus' sermon featured in today's Liturgy of the Hours Office of Readings eloquently explains Herod's murderous actions as if speaking to him personally:

You are not restrained by the love of weeping mothers or fathers mourning the deaths of their sons, nor by the cries and sobs of the children.  You destroy those who are tiny in body because fear is destroying your heart.  You imagine that if you accomplish your desire you can prolong your own life, though you are seeking to kill Life himself.

Saint Quodvultdeus writes on about the meaning of the children's martyrdom:

The children die for Christ, though they do not know it.  The parents mourn for death of martyrs.  The child makes of those yet unable to speak fit witnesses to himself.  See the kind of kingdom that is his, coming as he did in order to be this kind of king.  See how the deliverer is already working deliverance, the savior already working salvation.

Today's Massacres  I reflect on the massacre of innocent children in our modern day. Massacres in ways that are much more destructive.  We just passed the one year anniversary of the Sandy Hook Elementary school shooting which left so many children dead.  We read about children being kidnapped and trafficked into prostitution.  We hear on the news about children committing suicide due to a bully's hateful actions. We listen with pity as we hear stories of children sexually abused or starved to death.  The most sinister of all is the unborn child aborted as if  "it" was a piece of trash.   The way society treats its children (as well as elderly adults) demonstrates how much it values life in general.  It's easy in our "throw away culture" to abuse and neglect children, treating them as scapegoats for our own personal hurts and anger.  I can imagine the excuses for harming children:

 "Our son will be born with Down Syndrome.  We chose to abort him because we just can't afford his ongoing care......"

"Oh, I smack around Johnny boy to toughin' him up!  I don't want him to grow into a wimp.  He doesn't mind a few slaps....."

"She is such a beautiful girl.  I have a client who wishes to bed with a virgin.  She will be perfect for him. Let's find a way to bring her into the night business......"

"I'm so glad that loser girl killed herself.  Good riddance.  She was so ugly and smelled bad.  Life will be so much better without her!"

"Our daughter is such a nightmare.  She goes potty on herself all the time so we just lock her up in the closet and withhold food.  I never wanted that miserable child"
(It just breaks my heart to think there may be some truth behind these awful words.......)

Thank God for our white-robed army of innocent children!  I think of these precious children martyrs as helping the abused and neglected children become free from their bondage.  I see the white-robed army fighting for children's dignity.  Children deserve love, respect, and compassion regardless of their circumstances in life.  

Let us hug a child today and tell them how much we love them!  Let us always remember to treat children with tenderness and care.  Let's see Christ shining through them.

-J.

Word of Life

Feast of John, Apostle and Evangelist

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Gospel of John 20:1a, 2-8

1st Letter of John 1:1-4

Beloved: What was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our own eyes, what we looked upon and touched with our hands concerns the Word of life - for the life was made visible; we have seen it and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life.....

Today we celebrate the feast day of John, the disciple whom Jesus loved.  The youngest of Jesus' apostles, he was chosen to care for the Blessed Virgin Mary after Jesus died.  Most likely the John we remember today is not the same John who wrote the gospel or three epistles.  

Word of Life made visible  The apostles touched Jesus in the flesh.  They listen to him,  spoke with him, witnessed miracles by him, and even dined with him at the Last Supper.  They understood he was the word of life made visible  even if only for a brief 33 years.  Through the Holy Spirit, the apostles enthusiastically preached and taught the Christian message.  Thousands would convert to Christianity, eventually millions 2000 years later.   

What if you were one of the early apostles?  How would you proclaim Christ's message?  Would you be like John the Baptist and baptize the converted in the Jordan River?  Would you write letters to the Christian communities like Paul?  Would you invite the Gentiles as well as the Jews to worship? Would you travel or stay put in your chosen community?  How would you spread the Word of Life?

The Word of Death?  It saddens me when I read about people turning away from Christ.  The Word of life is more like death to their ears, minds and hearts.  Recently, a local elementary school instated a rule that no one could wear red or green during the Christmas season.  Everything related to Christmas was banned - no trees, no gifts, no parties, and definitely nothing religious.  What kind of message does this convey?  Christmas is offensive to a minority of unbelievers.  Christmas is something that should be privately observed and not publicly celebrated. Anyone who's read The Hunger Games trilogy may think of the rigid, militaristic structure of District 13 where everything was sanitized, scheduled, and lacked warmth or room for creative expression.  Do we want our schools and public spaces to turn into District 13?  I certainly hope not! 

 We need Christ in our homes and our schools.  God needs to remain a strong moral presence in our lives. We should not allow the "isms" to wipe away our beliefs.  Worshipping the God of the Superficial is not life-giving but life-wilting!  When we become wimps for Christ, and decide to stay quiet so we don't offend anyone, we are only hurting our message.  The apostles were ridiculed, spat at and even killed for their Christian convictions but this didn't stop them!  We need to follow their examples of resilience.  Evangelization is not always comfortable and can be tough, but paganism has always been a great force to recon with!  

As Catholic Christians, let us pray, witness and advocate.  Let us not be beaten up by the anti-religious sentiment sweeping the globe.  The Word of Life is worth fighting for.

-J.

Receive My Spirit

Feast of Saint Stephen, the First Martyr

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Gospel of Matthew 10:17-22
Acts of the Apostles 6:8-10; 7:54-59

".....Brother will hand over brother to death, and the father his child; children will rise up against parents and have them put to death.  You will be hated by all because of my name, but whoever endures to the end will be saved."

From Birth to Martyrdom I find the passages in today's readings somewhat sad and disheartening.  Just yesterday we celebrated the birth of our Savior and today we "celebrate" death and martyrdom of one of the earliest apostles.  Yesterday was clearly joyful.  Today not as joyful.  However, maybe  it depends how you think about the situation.  Here Stephen filled with the Holy Spirit debated, infuriating crowds. The Synagogue of Freedman et. al were tired of hearing ridiculous talk about this Son of Man.  Stephen ended up stoned to death as a result. Ironically, his cloaks were placed at the feet of a "young man Saul" who eventually became the converted St. Paul!  So, in the scheme of things, one's martyrdom eventually converted the soul of another.  One's martyrdom proved what Jesus told his disciples:  You will be hated because of my name. but whoever endures to the end will be saved.  Saint Stephen as a "first bud of martyrdom" cried out, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.  The Lord gladly welcomed Stephen into the Kingdom of Heaven.

Endure to the End Yesterday, as I walked out of Mass I noticed a man standing outside.  He held up a sign "I recently lost my job.  I have 3 children to support....Can you please help?"  Beside him stood three small children.  I looked at the face of one of the little girls.  So heartbreaking!!  A few people placed coins into the man's bucket.  Another gentleman returned from his car opening up his wallet so he could give the poor man money. 

The small family appeared to be immigrants.  We receive a lot of "gypsies" who loiter around the church looking for handouts.  It's often difficult to tell if these people are truly needy.  If Jesus saw this man with children, he would never doubt the man's sincerity. He'd help with no questions asked. 

Unfortunately, I've been approached by so many "beggars" over the course of life I've become desensitized.  It's easy to turn a blind eye.  I don't want to look at people who are homeless.  I don't want to be bothered by their misfortune.  I don't want smelly, drunk, mentally ill people around.  We have homeless shelters for a purpose.  Let the shelters help these people out.  However, listening to Pope Francis' words about how we should care for the poor and learning that he sneaks out at night to help the poor made me realize that these people are children of God, too.  They deserve love, respect, and aide.  Stones of rejection should not be thrown at the penniless!  As Christians, if we want to be saved we must endure until the end.  We must help those in need even if it's uncomfortable and takes time out of our busy schedules.  We must refrain from unfair judgment and ridicule.  We must be good witnesses of Jesus Christ and act in ways pleasing to him.  Yes, we may be scourged, hated and ridiculed for acting in ways that don't fit the modern-day norm.  Think about what Jesus would do - he'd never turn away the rejected.  We should do the same thing, too.

Saint Stephen, Pray for Us!

-J.

Christmas Dawn

The Nativity of Our Lord (Christmas)

Mass at Dawn

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Gospel of Luke 2:15-20

When the Angels went away from them to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go, then, to Bethlehem to see this thing that has taken place, which The Lord has made known to us."  So they went in haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in a manger.

As an early morning riser, I really enjoy attending the earliest Mass of the day.  Christmas at dawn is special.  It's quiet and peaceful.  It invites me to reflection and prayer.  I listen more closely and more attentively at the stirring of the Holy Spirit in my heart....

What if I was a shepherd? This morning I reflect on the shepherds who were the very first to see the baby Jesus.  What would it have been like if I was a shepherd at the time of Christ's birth?  How would I react seeing the tiny baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger?  As one of the poorest of the poor, and certainly not smelling very good from hauling sheep around into the wee hours of the night, I may be a little timid to show myself.  I mean, if this is the Messiah born I certainly wanted to look clean.  But then again, I may be in such awe over the little bundle of joy that I wouldn't even think about myself. My eyes and my heart would be focused on the beautiful baby boy born from the womb of Mary.  I may even present Mary and Joseph with a little baby lamb as a token of my love and congratulations.  What a miracle!

I wish to share an excerpt from Pope Francis' prepared Christmas Midnight Mass homily which I think is so beautiful:

The grace which was revealed in our world is Jesus, born of the Virgin Mary, true man and true God. He has entered our history; he has shared our journey. He came to free us from darkness and to grant us light. In him was revealed the grace, the mercy, and the tender love of the Father: Jesus is Love incarnate. He is not simply a teacher of wisdom, he is not an ideal for which we strive while knowing that we are hopelessly distant from it. He is the meaning of life and history, who has pitched his tent in our midst.

The shepherds were the first to see this "tent", to receive the news of Jesus' birth. They were the first because they were among the last, the outcast. And they were the first because they were awake, keeping watch in the night, guarding their flocks. Together with them, let us pause before the Child, let us pause in silence. Together with them, let us thank the Lord for having given Jesus to us, and with them let us raise from the depths of our hearts the praises of his fidelity: We bless you, Lord God most high, who lowered yourself for our sake. You are immense, and you made yourself small; you are rich and you made yourself poor; you are all-powerful and you made yourself vulnerable.

Amen!  May the light of Christ penetrate and radiate your heart on this Christmas Dawn!  

O Emmanuel, 

may the assurance of your unfailing Presence 

be for me the source of unending peace. 

May I never fear my weakness, my inadequacy, or my imperfection. 

Rather, as I gaze with faith, hope, and love upon your incarnate littleness, 

may I love my own littleness, for God is with us. 

Endow my life with a holy wonder 

that leads me ever more deeply into the Mystery of Redemption 

and the meaning of my vocation and destiny.

(-Adapted from Blessing Prayers: Devotions for Growing in Faith by Fr. Peter John Cameron, O.P.)

-J.

Sing, Zechariah, Sing!

Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Advent

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Gospel of Luke 1:67-79


Zechariah his father, filled with the Holy Spirit, prophesied saying, "Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; for he has come to his people and set them free."

I was totally jazzed and a bit surprised when I opened a gift from a friend overseas.  He bought me a portable turntable. "Awesome!" I thought, "Now I can play my old vinyls from the 1980's and reminisce!"  I spun a record from the rock band Foreigner singing along (quite loudly) to the ballad I Want to Know What Love Is.  You may recognize the words from the refrain:

I wanna know what love is
I want you to show me
I wanna feel what love is
I know you can show me

Zechariah new exactly what love is! God showed love by blessing Elizabeth and Zechariah with the baby boy John!  Filled by the Holy Spirit, Zechariah proudly proclaimed his Benedictus.  This beautiful canticle is still sung (or recited) during the Morning Prayer of the Divine Office (Liturgy of the Hours).  Zechariah praised the blessings bestowed on him. (I'm sure he was joyful and relieved to get his speech back, too.)  What better way to use the vocal cords than sing a lovely song not only celebrating the birth of John the Baptist but prophesying the birth of someone even mightier:  God in human form.  A Man, the Christ, who will be born from a virgin.  A Man, the Christ, who will perform amazing miracles and convert thousands of followers.  A Man, the Christ, who will eventually die for our salvation.  A Man, the Christ who will save us all from the hands of our enemies.  

Can you imagine a father bursting into song after the birth of his new born son?  Maybe a rock ballad, a Gregorian chant, a Christmas song??!  (I'd like to see a You Tube video of this!) Usually pats on the back and the distribution of pink and blue cigars show off a proud new papa.  How beautiful if a first-time father wrote something special for his new son or daughter if only a few simple words.  Nothing as extensive as Zechariah's song but something intimate and personal.  What about a favorite bible passage or words to a hymn?  

Christmas has arrived!  Let us sing those Christmas carols loudly with enthusiasm!  Let us smile and rejoice at the birth of our Savior.  Just like Zechariah's sings with praise and thanksgiving we can do. Doesn't matter if you can sing "in tune" or not, let us sing a song to the Lord!

Merry Christmas!!!

-J.

The Morning Star

Monday of the Fourth Week of Advent

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Gospel of Luke 1:57-66

When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, "No.  He will be called John."....All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, "What, then, will this child be?"  For surely the hand of the Lord was with him.

He will be called John.   Elizabeth gives birth to a beautiful baby boy.  As Jewish custom, he should be named after his father Zechariah.  The Lord has another name in mind.  In a miraculous healing from muteness, Zechariah proclaims "John is his name."  All of the crowds are amazed by Zechariah simple words. But, underlining all the amazement is a sense of fear.  Most likely questions flooded their minds:

What, then, will this be child be? Will he be some sort of prophet of the Lord?  Or, could he be a threat to our Jewish faith?  What is the purpose of this miracle baby born from the womb of a barren woman? It must be the hands of the Lord, a mystery destined to unfold in years to come....

The Jewish people will soon learn the importance of John the Baptist as the last of the great prophets.  John is like a lantern producing a faint glow along the path to the Kingdom of Heaven.  The dimmed light shines on the city of Jerusalem and along the River Jordan.  As the light glows brighter, it  invites people to conversion and baptism.  The glowing light of John's preaching is preparing hearts for the arrival of Jesus the Messiah, the brightest light in the sky - The Morning Star.

Jesus, the Morning Star  I absolutely love the image chosen for this meditation.  It's based on "The Daughter of the Sun, the Morning Star" which is part of Cherokee Indian folk lore:  “Morning Star, the star that shines brightest when all other stars go dim, the star that shines not with its own light but with the light of the Sun…”  The brightest star in the sky is Jesus Christ.  Even the three wise men will follow the bright star, presenting the child gifts of frankincense and myrrh.  

Is Jesus a bright shining star in my life?  Do I gaze up at him with praise, love, and thanksgiving?  

Refiner of Gold & Silver  The Prophet Malachi writes:       

"For he is like the refiner's fire, or like the fuller's lye.  He will sit refining and purifying silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi, refining them like gold or like silver."  

Can you imagine if God never became man?  Can you imagine if humanity never experienced a savior who continuously refines and purifies our hearts with love and mercy?  Let's take a few moments in the early morning hours to gaze up at the stars and be reminded of Christ's upcoming birth!

O Radiant Dawn, splendor of eternal light, sun of justice:  come and shine on those who dwell in the darkness and shadow of death.  (Advent "O Antiphon" for December 21st)

-J.

Biblical Broadway

Fourth Sunday of Advent

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Gospel of Matthew 1:18-24

"Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home.  For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her.  She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save their people from their sins."

God is with us. I woke up early yesterday morning with a stuffy nose, pounding headache, and tickle in my throat. (Nose isn't much better as I type this meditation!) I suspect I've contracted the infamous "Christmas cold."  All of these questions run through my head:  Do I make it to that Christmas get-together attended by a person I rather avoid?  Do I give a gift to someone who I assume won't appreciate it?  Which Christmas mass will I go to so I can avoid large crowds (and screaming kids)?  Will the present I sent via wagon-wheel caravan (post office) ever make it to my friend? Yikes!  I know - too many questions!  Time to slow down my brain's circuitry and remember something very important:  God is with us.  In times of sickness and health, life and death, tragedy and blessing,  The Lord our Savior is right beside us.  A simple prayer for making good decisions is something we should do first before allowing worry to wear us down...and even make us sick!  This is still a season of rejoicing despite how we may feel.

Biblical Broadway As I meditate over the scripture readings this Advent, I feel like I've sat in the audience of a major theatrical production on Biblical Broadway.  (A theatrical production with a four week showing but always available for re-run when the time is appropriate!) We have a cast of Tony-award winning "actors":  Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth, and Zechariah.  This cast has been superbly directed by not only the Angel Gabriel but God himself!  Also, special acclaim must be given to the gifted playwrights Isaiah, Matthew, and Luke.  No, this theatrical production isn't anything like "Jesus Christ Superstar" with rockin' 70s lyrics and religious controversy.  This carefully-crafted play details the important events leading up to the birth of Jesus.  In a way the drama never ends.  We explore prophesies, angelic visitations, dreams, conjugal conceptions, "unplanned" pregnancies, and even temporary muteness.  Who ever said the bible was boring?! 

Living, Breathing Rosary  For me the rosary comes alive and breathes during this time, especially when we re-visit the mysteries of the Annunciation and the Visitation.  I feel as if Our Lady speaks to my heart intimately saying:  My dear Jennifer, peace be with you.  I thank-you for believing in my son and for all  the good inside your heart.  Despite your weaknesses, rest assured that Jesus loves you immeasurably.  You are a dear child to me, too, and I'm here for you anytime you need advice and consolation.  Have a Blessed Christmas.  Please always remember Jesus and I, along with the heavenly angels, will protect you!"

-J.

Leap for Joy - Magnify The Lord!

Saturday of the Third Week of Advent

(Click Here for Readings)

Gospel of Luke 1:39-45

When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, "Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb."

Yeah! In little less than a week, Christmas will arrive.  No more school until the New Year.  No more frantic shopping for perfect gifts.  No more crowds to fight or congested traffic to drive through.  Most of us will be on vacation and finally able to spend valuable time with our close family and friends.  Our lives will slow down a bit (hopefully) as we enjoy delicious food and welcomed company. The Christmas season is definitely a time to leap for joy.  Not only are we excited to receive gifts and tokens of affection from loved ones,  we celebrate the arrival of Christ our Savior.  

Are you filled with the Holy Spirit?  Elizabeth certainly was!  In fact, the infant in her womb leaped with joy at Mary's greeting.  Even while only a growing fetus inside the womb, John the Baptist recognized something special and miraculous about the child Mary carried.  Elizabeth joyfully proclaimed blessed is the fruit of your womb. Both Elizabeth and her unborn son welcomed Mary with love and awe.

Do you recognize the blessings in your life?  Do you leap for joy at good news?  Do you listen to the quiet nudging of the Holy Spirit within your heart?


This Christmas is a very special one for my own family.  My younger sister is pregnant with her first child. She's in her sixth month which is at about the same gestation period as Elizabeth.  I will become a first time aunt.  I'm thrilled yet a little nervous at the new responsibility.  Since my sister and her husband live in another city, it will be difficult to see my new niece regularly.  I think of the long distance traveled between Mary's home and Elizabeth's all by foot.  In fact, Mary  traveled in haste up to the hill country excited at the wonderful news she was expecting.  My sister has traveled a long distance to join the family, too. (Fortunately by air travel...) This weekend we will be giving her a baby shower.  Can you imagine if Mary and Elizabeth were given baby showers?  How would they react?  I'm sure Mary and Elizabeth would act humbly and graciously.

Magnify the Lord  Imagine Jesus in Mary's womb the size of a grain of rice.  So tiny yet so full of promise.  A magnifying glass reveals the intricacies of the Christ child - small nerves and vessels.  Only a small lump of tissue that will soon form into human legs, arms, feet, eyes, head, and a nose.  Further magnification reveals movement and recognition to stimuli.  The miraculous life grows within the womb of beautiful Mary, taking on her physical and behavioral characteristics.  Soon Christ will be born, wrapped in swaddling clothes and placed in a manger.  The prophesies of the old covenant will come to fruition.  The Lord, the Messiah, the King of Kings will soon walk on this earth "magnifying" the hearts and minds of all who believe.

During these last few days of Advent, let us shower others with love, warmth, and compassion.  Let's be humble in spirit just like Our Blessed Mother and Elizabeth.  Let us leap with joy at the birth of the Christ Child.

-J.

P.S.  After writing this meditation, a brief poem came to my mind:

Magnify The Lord in everything you do.

Praise The Lord Jesus with your whole being.

Spread the good news to the multitude;

Rely on the Holy Spirit to insight meaning.

Meaning that is personal to a believer's heart.

Never designed to hurt, to bruise or discourage.

Christ loves his children even when they drift apart;

Attracted to worldly riches, power and clout.

Thanks to the Blessed Virgin for saying the glorious"Yes!"

Her model encourages, her humility inspires;

Elizabeth recognized Mary's womb to be truly blessed;

Christ will soon be born, the whole world transpired.

Magnify The Lord in everything you do.

Mary & Modern-Day Love

Friday of the Third Week of Advent

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Gospel of Luke 1:26-38

Mary said, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.  May it be done to me according to your word." 

Mary's Fiat We once again encounter Mary's fiat in the readings of the day. Repeated scripture passages are the Church's way of emphasizing  key theological aspects of our faith.  Plus, it's important for us to meditate on Mary's Annunciation.  Our Advent "preparation and waiting" will soon come to an end. Christ Emmanuel will be born!  

Have you experienced a fruitful Advent?  Have you prayed to our Blessed Mother lately?  She loves us and willing to intercede for us if we only ask.

God's Will  Mary's simplicity and obedience is a role model for all.  It took tremendous love for her to accept the chosen role as Mother of God.  Despite fear, confusion, and unease at her newly-discovered pregnancy, she accepted it as God's will.  

Have you received unexpected news lately?  Did you take it with love or hate? Do you accept God's will in your life or resent when things don't go as expected?

Modern-Day Love Mary's simple "Yes" and the love in her heart encourages me reflect on the current state of love in modern-day life.  Our secularized culture focuses on love in the physical sense.  People read romance novels or watch spicy, erotic films.  Online dating sites invite singles to "find your true love match" with compatibility assessments and profiles.  In our "hook up culture" love equates to one-night stands and adulterous affairs.  Of course, love can also be a beautiful thing like when we experience love for our spouse, our children, our families, and even our pets.  

We have to be careful not to become in-love with ourselves.  When we focus only on our carnal desires, we lose focus on the needs of others.  We become micro-enclosed.  The world revolves  around Me and I!  Of course, I think we all have a propensity toward self-love, especially if we've been hurt by others.  Self-love is almost a protective disposition.  Nobody can break the heart if I love myself only and not form healthy relationships with others.

Jesus encourages us to experience agape love - love that is selfless and not pretentious.  Love that is enduring and acknowledges the needs of others.  Agape love is not sexual.  Agape love is unconditional.  We love one another despite warts and all!  

Mary and Jesus loves us unconditionally despite our sinful nature.  Let's take a moment out of our busy schedules to pray a decade of the rosary, meditating on Mary's annunciation.  Let's try to love everyone we come across and recognize God's will in our lives.

-J.

Struck Speechless

Thursday of the Third Week of Advent

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Gospel of Luke 1:5-25

Then Zechariah said to the angel "How shall I know this?  For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years."  And the angel said to him in reply, "I am Gabriel, who stand before God.  I was sent to speak to you and to announce to you this good news.  But now you will be speechless and unable to talk until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled at the proper time."

Struck Speechless   Zechariah refused to believe the angel's announcement that Elizabeth would soon conceive a son in old age.  Why the disbelief?  Was it out of fear?  Was he "surprised" speechless? Shouldn't a righteous priest believe everything an angel of the Lord declares?  Zechariah patiently prayed for a child.  His prayer was answered.  Why even doubt such a miracle?  How frustrating for Zechariah, as a priest, to communicate voiceless.  I imagine he carried around a bulky stone tablet or scrolls writing words he wished he could proclaim loudly! Fortunately for Zechariah his inability to talk was only temporary. I think Zechariah's muteness helped "store up" special graces which later transpired into John the Baptist's amazing preaching ability.  

Have you ever been struck speechless by unexpected news?  Have you ever been so afraid that you couldn't utter a word?  Did you turn to the Lord for guidance and strength?

Use the tongue wisely. I recommend taking a "moment of silence" every now and then. Listen instead of speak.  Observe instead of comment.  Pray for someone instead of complain about them.  When we do speak, we should choose words that are respectful and loving.  Yes, I know - Better said than done! It's so easy for us to shout out that f-bomb  or call someone an ugly name.  Just like Zechariah, we could lose the gift of speech at any moment.  This is why it's important to use our tongues wisely.  We never know when we will me called to speak in defense of the Church and Christ's teachings.

"My mouth shall be filled with your praise and I will sing with glory!" (Responsorial Psalm)

Joseph's Dream

Wednesday of the Third Week of Advent

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Gospel of Matthew 1:18-25

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about.  When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit.  Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly.  Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream......        

Truth Revealed in A Dream  Joseph was a good man.  When he found out about Mary's pregnancy, he decided to divorce her quietly.  He could have publicly shamed her, announcing to the crowds of her obvious "affair" with another man.  Scary to think Mary stoned to death if it wasn't for Joseph's righteousness and a dream.

God placed in Joseph a loving heart to be deeply admired - a caring heart.  Yet, it took the power of a dream to reveal the truth of Mary's pregnancy:  She was carrying a child conceived by the Holy Spirit.  How could this be?  How unbelievable!  When Joseph woke from his dream, he sprang into action and did as the angel commanded.  He took the dream seriously realizing the importance of what it revealed.

Do you ever remember your own dreams?  Do they reveal things in your life you may be overlooking?  

Figment of the Imagination Most of the time when we experience a dream we quickly forget about it.  Most dreams don't make a whole lot of sense.  They are a whirlwind of thoughts and images. Some dreams are funny while others are frightening. Dreams can appear so real.  It's a good thing that dreams while sleeping don't fall into the category of committing mortal sin.  I think my confessor would blush in embarrassment if I revealed the details of some of the rather "racy" dreams I've experienced in the past. Small nuggets of soap opera drama......

Dream interpretation   What are your dreams in the waking life?  Do they center around God?  We may have difficulty interpreting dreams from sleep.  The subconscious mind is truly an enigma.  However, our own "waking dreams" don't need interpretation as much as they need awareness, preparation, and action.  We may dream of owning a home, living in a new city, traveling abroad, or maybe even entering religious life someday.  Turning to the Lord for guidance can help us realize our dreams.  If it's truly His will, our dreams will bear fruit.  If not, dreams will take an unexpected turn.  I never thought in my "wildest dreams" that I would be writing a religious blog! Interesting how the Holy Spirit "interprets" our dreams for us.  

The Lord gives us what we need at the right time and circumstances.  Just like the angel alerted Joseph of his Mary's divine womb, the Holy Spirit alerts us.  All we need to do is watch, wait, and listen.

-J.

Family Genealogy

Tuesday of the Third Week of Advent

Gospel of Matthew 1:1-17

The Book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.  Abraham became the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers.....


Uh, all those names?! As a Mass Lector, this account of Jesus' genealogy is one of the most difficult to read in front of the congregation.  Firstly, it's long, boring, and tedious.  Secondly, some of the biblical names are impossible to say.  I can spend hours rehearsing the correct pronunciation of names like "Amminadab" or "Jehoshaphat" or "Shealtiel" but then stand up on the podium and butcher them all!  I always feel for the Lector who happens to be "on duty" when this passage appears in the liturgy.  Thank the Lord for some excellent online bible word pronunciation guides.  As a retired priest used to say, "Even I have trouble with these names. I say them differently every time!"

Why Jesus' genealogy?   Jesus Christ's genealogy is unique to the Gospel of Matthew.  If it wasn't for this important account, we may not realize the significance of Christ's blood line beginning with Abraham, father of faith.  Interesting enough, very few women's names appear in the genealogy.  We read of Rahab, Ruth, and of course Mary.  Throughout the bible, if a woman's name is mentioned she was an outstanding female figure at the time.  Other than this, women were simply not recognized.

Our own family genealogy   How interesting to research our own family genealogies. With the Internet, there's so much more information available at our fingertips.  Recently, my grandparents discovered an old article published in a small country newspaper dating back to 1912.  It featured my Great Uncle Will.  My mother used to have his picture hanging on the wall when I was growing up.  We never really knew much about him but thought he was quite handsome.  It turns out Uncle Will was quite the eccentric and definitely ahead of his time.  He invented his own home "on wheels" before the mobile home became mainstream.  He and his wife would travel about from city to city.  He was sort of like a traveling salesman.  He even had a pet monkey!  He ended up getting a divorce later in his marriage which was quite unheard of back in the day.  Reading and hearing about Uncle Will makes me appreciate my own family genealogy.  Now with the advent of new DNA technology, we can trace our ancestry even years before Christ was born!

Near is the great day of the Lord, near and very swiftly coming. (Zephaniah 1:14)

 -J.

By God's Authority or Man's?

Monday of the Third Week of Advent

Gospel of Matthew 21:23-27


When Jesus had come into the temple area, the chief priests and elders of the people approached him as he was teaching and said, "By what authority are you doing these things?  And who gave you this authority?"  Jesus said to them in reply, "I shall ask you one question, and if you answer it for me, then I shall tell you by what authority I do these things.  Where was John's baptism from?  Was it of heavenly or of human origin?"......So they said to Jesus in reply, "We do not know."  He himself said to them, "Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things."

Jesus' Trick Question  Throughout the Gospels, Jesus answers a question with a question.  He often doesn't provide a clear cut answer.  This allows his message to continuously evolve and adapt over time.  When asked, "By what authority?" Jesus doesn't want to "spill the beans" as to who he truly is and why he's teaching and performing miracles.  John the Baptist has been murdered. It's too soon for Jesus to succumb to the same fate.  Instead, Jesus throws out that trick question.  The scribes realize they are in a "Catch 22" predicament.  They can admit John's baptism is from "heavenly origin" that will prove Jesus right all along, or they can answer "of human origin" upsetting the crowds who see John as a Prophet.  The scribes and priests simply answer, "We do not know." A neutral response seems the best "solution" to potential conflict.

How many times in our lives do we simply say "I don't know" when we do know the right answer? Do we simply choose to act ignorant so we can protect our egos?

Human Authority   All of us must obey authority. It's part of protecting society from total dysfunction and chaos. We have laws in place to keep us safe.  Even though most of us don't like it, we are required to pay the IRS income taxes every year.  We should obey traffic signs, not speed through school zones, and keep the bottle away from the wheel!  Authority abounds us everywhere we go. It's part of a civil society.  Do we choose to obey human authority or ignore it?

Divine Authority  The ultimate authority comes straight from God. He created us and molded us in his image.  So often people  simply ignore God's authority.  We can do whatever we want.  We can say whatever we want.  It's all about "I am the authority of my own life!"  People think they don't need to believe a holy figure!  It's all about me, me, and more of me.  Unfortunately, when we become our own authority figures, and push away from God, despair results. Just like people who break laws go to prison, people who disobey God's Commandments and teachings risk being excluded from the Kingdom of Heaven.  People may think, "Oh no big deal. This Christ figure is a joke."  This is a sad reality.  I pray that by the power of the Holy Spirit those who do not believe in Christ will one day respond to his "divine authority" with a hope and joy. Clearly there is so much to look forward to in heaven!

-J.  

Rejoice & Bloom!

Sunday of the Third Week of Advent

Gaudete Sunday

Gospel of Matthew 11:2-11

This is the one about whom it was written: "Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you."  Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of Heaven is greater than he.

On this third Sunday of Advent, a rose colored vestment is worn by the priest.  A pink candle is lit on the Advent wreath.  Let's rejoice and be glad!  Our Savior is soon to be born!  He will give sight to the blind, hearing to the deaf, walking to the lame, and speech to the mute.  Jesus' deep love for us will eventually bloom into a flower of everlasting grace and mercy.

Is there joy in your heart today?   Or, are you sad and bitter as if trapped in the parched desert? Although the church is rejoicing at the coming of Christ, the faithful may not feel so joyful.  Life has beaten them up.  The holiday blues got them down.  They just don't feel well.  Maybe some are thinking:

Getting old is no picnic.  I ache and pain....
 I'm so tired of trying to "live up to the Jones"....
Why don't my kids come to visit?  I'm so lonely....
How I wish we didn't get a divorce.....
What should I do with my life? I'm so lost....
I don't know how I will manage all of this debt....
Oh how I miss my spouse who passed away.....
I wish someone would love me.....

Although joyless emotions erupt as we think about the wrong in our lives, rest assured that Christ showers us with love and protection.  He never leaves us alone to fret for long. All it takes is a simple "Yes!" and to follow him.  We must learn to wear our "patience hat" when undergoing life's challenges.  Nothing will always seem so hurtful and bleak.  

Certainly we can experience joy.  We just need to break out of our shells of self-pity and observe the beauty around us.  A new baby is born.  A new job is offered and accepted.  A rainbow fills the sky after a rain.  A new bloom sprouts from a tree.  With courage, we can manage our suffering with an inner peace and joy in our hearts. 

On this "Rejoice" Sunday, let us take a few moments to pray for those who may not see the joy in their lives.  Joy is indeed a blessing and gift from God!

Saint John the Baptist, Pray for Us!   

-J.