Seeing the crowds, “He went up the mountain, and after he sat down his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them ...” (Mt 5:1-2) Our Lord gives an in-depth picture of the true disciple. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who mourn ...” (Mt 5:3-11)
Our Lord’s words must have made a very strong impression on his hearers. Many of them would have been frustrated and some even disappointed. Jesus had just expressed in precise terms the new spirit He had come to bring on earth-- a revolutionary spirit which involved a complete change from the usual attitude.
The generally accepted human values, such as those of the Pharisees, saw earthly happiness as God’s blessing and reward, and regarded unhappiness and misfortune as God’s punishment. (cf “The Navarre Bible”, note to Mt 5:2, p54) Even nowadays, people tend to be perplexed by this startling contrast. They see the tribulation the Beatitudes bring, but not the genuine happiness Jesus promises.
The essential idea that “Jesus wanted to impress on his listeners was this: only serving God brings happiness to man. In the midst of poverty, of pain and a sense of having been forsaken, the true servant of God can say with St Paul, ‘My joy overflows in the midst of all my tribulations’.” A man can be desperately unhappy amidst opulence and all earthly goods. (Fray Justo Perez de Urbel, “Life of Christ”)
The people who listened to Our Lord fully understood that those Beatitudes were not intended to establish different classes of people, that they did not promise salvation to particular groups of society; but that they absolutely laid down the religious dispositions and moral conduct which Jesus demands of all those who want to follow him.
The ‘Beatitudes’ point to the same ideal -- sanctity. Whatever our life’s circumstances, we must know that we are invited to live the Christian life in all its fulness. We cannot say to the Lord: ‘Wait until I have solved this problem! or Give me time until I have recovered from this illness! or When I am no longer suffering calumny, then I will really begin to seek holiness!’
In the ‘Magnificat’ pronounced by Our Lady, we hear, “He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty” (Lk 1:53). Our Lord invites us not to be satisfied with the happiness that mere transitory goods can give us; and encourages us to long for those good things which He has prepared for us.
If our search for happiness is along ways other than those willed by God, the quest ends only in loneliness and sadness. The experience of all who have chosen to ignore God when He has spoken to them in their hearts has always been the same-- the bitter truth that apart from God there is no firm and lasting happiness.
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 3:158-60, 162-3
“That earthly peace ...
“... which arises from love of neighbor symbolizes and results from the peace of Christ which radiates from God the Father. For by the Cross the Incarnate Son, the Prince of Peace, reconciled all men with God. By thus restoring all men to the unity of one people and one body, he slew hatred in his own flesh. ...
“For this reason, all Christians are urgently summoned to do in love what the truth requires, and to join with all true peacemakers in pleading for peace and bringing it about.”
Ref: cf From the Pastoral Constitution “Gaudium et Spes”, in “The Private Prayers of Pope John Paul II”, 2002, p106
Fruitfulness
“Pray for everyone, for people of every race and tongue and of every creed, for those who have only a vague idea about religion and for those who do not know the faith at all.
“This zeal for souls, which is a sure and a clear sign that we love Jesus, will make Jesus come.”
Ref: St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Forge”, 949
Selection -- “Let yourself be formed by the rough or gentle strokes of grace. Strive to be an instrument rather than an obstacle. And, if you are willing, your most Holy Mother will help you; and you will be a channel for the waters of God, rather than a boulder which diverts their flow.” (Ibid, Op cit, 874)
Our Lady of Grace (Our Lady of the Bowed Head), Rome (http://www.divine will.org/feastofourlady.htm)
Our Lady of Grace, in the Abbey of Saint-Sauve, at Montrenil snr Mer.—(Chronicon S. Salvi.) ( “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
THE SEVEN SUNDAYS DEVOTION TO ST. JOSEPH -- Honors the seven joys and seven sorrows of St Joseph. (Ref: “Handbook of Prayers”, Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias [Eds], 1988, pp321-3)
“What must Joseph have been, how grace must have worked through him, that he should be able to fulfill this task of the human upbringing of the Son of God.
“For Jesus must have resembled Joseph: in his way of working, in the features of his character, in his way of speaking. Jesus’ realism, his eye for detail, the way he sat at table and broke bread, his preference for using everyday situations to give doctrine -- all this reflects his childhood and the influence of Joseph.
“It’s not possible to ignore this sublime mystery: Jesus who is man, who speaks with the accent of a particular district of Israel, who resembles a carpenter called Joseph, is the Son of God.”
Ref: St Josemaria Escrivà, “In Joseph’s Workshop” in “Christ is passing by”, 40
The second sorrow and joy of St Joseph -- His sorrow when he saw Jesus born in poverty, his joy when the angels announced Jesus’ birth.
“So they hurried away and found Mary and Joseph and the baby lying in the manger.” (Lk 2:16)
“Ite ad Joseph: ‘Go to Joseph’. He will show us definite ways, both human and divine to approach Jesus. And soon you will dare, as he did ‘to take up in his arms, kiss, clothe and look after’ this child God who has been born unto us. As a homage of their veneration, the Magi offered gold, frankincense and myrrh to Jesus. Joseph gave all his youthful and loving heart.”
Ref: St Josemaria Escrivà, “The Epiphany of the Lord” in “Christ is passing by”, 40
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Friday, February 5, 2010
6 February 2010: Memorial -- Ss Paul Miki, Pedro Bautista and companions, martyrs
Forty-five years after St Francis Xavier evangelized much of Japan, Paul Miki, SJ and his twenty-five companions [including Pedro Bautista] were martyred (1597) in Nagasaki, Japan. They were simultaneously killed by being raised on crosses and then pierced with lances. (Rev Hugo Hoever, SOCist, PhD, “Lives of the Saints”, 1955, p63)
[San Pedro Bautista is a Spanish Franciscan who stayed in the Philippines before going to Nagasaki. (Historical Marker, San Pedro Bautista Church, Quezon City, MM) A parish church at San Francisco del Monte in Quezon City is named after him. (“The 1997 Catholic Directory of the Philippines”, p230]
The Holy Martyrs of Nagasaki
I would be one of the many pilgrims who come to this Hill of the Martyrs at Nagasaki, where Christians sealed their fidelity to Christ with sacrifice of their lives. They triumphed over death with an insuperable act of praise to the Lord.
In an attitude of prayer before the monument to the Martyrs, I wish to penetrate the mystery of their lives. I would that they spoke to me and the whole of the Church. I wish to hear their message, which is still alive after hundreds of years.
Like Christ, they were taken to where common criminals were put to death. Like Christ, they gave their lives so that all of us might believe in the love of the Father, in the salvific mission of the Son, in the infallible guidance of the Holy Spirit.
At Nishizaka, on 5 February 1597, twenty-six Martyrs testified to ‘the power of the Cross’. They were the first of a rich harvest of Martyrs, because many subsequently consecrated this soil with their sufferings and death. Christians died at Nagasaki, but ‘the Church in Nagasaki did not die’.
I come today to this place as a pilgrim, to thank God for the life and death of the Martyrs of Nagasaki. I thank God for the lives of all those who, wherever they be, suffer for their faith in God, for their loyalty to Christ the Savior, for their fidelity to the Church. Every epoch -- past, present, and to come -- produces shining examples of the power in Jesus Christ for edification of all.
I come to the Hill of the Martyrs today “to give testimony of the primacy of love in the world”.
Ref: Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp82-3
To Representatives of Buddhism and Shinto
Venerable friends, representatives of Buddhism and Shinto in Japan, I am very happy to welcome you today. I greet you first of all as sons of the noble and industrious people of Japan. Your country has made outstanding progress in many fields. At the same time it has remained attached to its own lifestyle, with emphasis on respect, harmony and art.
The Catholic Church expresses her esteem for your religions and for your high spiritual values, such as purity, detachment of heart, love for the beauty of nature, and benevolence and compassion for everything that lives.
It gives great joy to know you have come here to carry forward your dialogue and collaboration ... The themes you are discussing ... each from the standpoint of his own religion, are the relationship between religion and culture.
I am deeply convinced these are themes of great importance for the future of our world. Indeed, this conviction of mine is reflected in my first Encyclical Letter, “Redemptor Hominis”. Be assured, then, that I shall follow this dialogue and subsequent ones with interest and appreciation.
We are all pilgrims to the Absolute and Eternal, who alone can save and satisfy the heart of the human person. “Let us seek His will together for the good of all humanity.”
Ref: Ibid, op cit, pp83-4
Jesus teaches with authority
Jesus went to Capharnaum, the most populous town in Galilee and center of commerce. There the river Jordan empties into the Sea of Galilee. Thus, it was peculiarly suited for preaching the Gospel and exercising the infinite charity of Jesus in works of mercy. The inhabitants badly needed such charity for their riches and luxury had thoroughly corrupted them.
On the Sabbath Jesus went to teach in the synagogue. And they were astonished at his doctrine for he taught as one having authority unlike the Scribes. His words impressed them because he spoke as a Master and Lawgiver; and practised what he taught.
Every word and action expressed forgetfulness of himself, and zeal for his Father’s glory and salvation of souls. However, the Scribes openly contradicted their teaching by their lives; their whole conduct betrayed self-interest.
There was in the synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.” (Mk 1:24)
Jesus threatened him, “Speak no more and go out of the man”. The unclean spirit, tearing him and crying aloud went out of him. Everybody was amazed and exclaimed, “What is this? What is this new doctrine? For with power he commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” His fame spread all over Galilee. (cf Mk 1:25-8)
What do we learn here? 1) The misery of a sinner, especially of impurity, gives the devil possession of his heart. 2) The impotence of devils against whoever seek the help of Jesus. 3) How God brings good out of evil. The rage of this unclean spirit raised the reputation of Jesus and disposed persons to accept his teaching.
The evils which God permits the devil to work in the world, he will turn to his own glory and the good of his Church. The economy of salvation puts even the devil to good use. Temptation is an opportunity to prove our worth and earn merits for salvation if we strive to overcome them. And we shall with God’s grace.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp385-7
Saturday is Our Lady’s day
For centuries Christians have given special attention to Mary on Saturdays. Theologians and ecclesiastical writers have explained some of the reasons that make this devotion particularly appropriate. Thus, St Peter Damascene writes that Saturdays commemorate the completion of God’s work of creation.
Saturday, the Sabbath of the Old Law, also anticipates the Lord’s Day, a symbol and sign of heaven. Christ, risen from the dead, is the gateway to eternal life. The Blessed Virgin is our way to Jesus; just as she was his way for coming into the world. (cf G Roschini, “The Mother of God”, Madrid) Mary, “on that day kept faith in the mystery of Christ after his death”. (cf St Thomas Aquinas, “On the Commandments”)
Whatever, we Christians need a special day to honour Our Lady and show her our love in a noteworthy way. And so, since ancient times, special Marian devotions have been held on Saturdays in churches, chapels and shrines throughout the world. Many Christians make a special effort to honour the Blessed Virgin in some distinctive manner on this day.
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, op cit, 4:549-50
Memorial: Our Lady of Louvain, in Belgium. This Virgin, in high veneration in that country, began to work miracles in the year 1444. — Balingham on the Calendar. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com) (http://www.divine will.org/feastofourlady.htm)
[San Pedro Bautista is a Spanish Franciscan who stayed in the Philippines before going to Nagasaki. (Historical Marker, San Pedro Bautista Church, Quezon City, MM) A parish church at San Francisco del Monte in Quezon City is named after him. (“The 1997 Catholic Directory of the Philippines”, p230]
The Holy Martyrs of Nagasaki
I would be one of the many pilgrims who come to this Hill of the Martyrs at Nagasaki, where Christians sealed their fidelity to Christ with sacrifice of their lives. They triumphed over death with an insuperable act of praise to the Lord.
In an attitude of prayer before the monument to the Martyrs, I wish to penetrate the mystery of their lives. I would that they spoke to me and the whole of the Church. I wish to hear their message, which is still alive after hundreds of years.
Like Christ, they were taken to where common criminals were put to death. Like Christ, they gave their lives so that all of us might believe in the love of the Father, in the salvific mission of the Son, in the infallible guidance of the Holy Spirit.
At Nishizaka, on 5 February 1597, twenty-six Martyrs testified to ‘the power of the Cross’. They were the first of a rich harvest of Martyrs, because many subsequently consecrated this soil with their sufferings and death. Christians died at Nagasaki, but ‘the Church in Nagasaki did not die’.
I come today to this place as a pilgrim, to thank God for the life and death of the Martyrs of Nagasaki. I thank God for the lives of all those who, wherever they be, suffer for their faith in God, for their loyalty to Christ the Savior, for their fidelity to the Church. Every epoch -- past, present, and to come -- produces shining examples of the power in Jesus Christ for edification of all.
I come to the Hill of the Martyrs today “to give testimony of the primacy of love in the world”.
Ref: Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp82-3
To Representatives of Buddhism and Shinto
Venerable friends, representatives of Buddhism and Shinto in Japan, I am very happy to welcome you today. I greet you first of all as sons of the noble and industrious people of Japan. Your country has made outstanding progress in many fields. At the same time it has remained attached to its own lifestyle, with emphasis on respect, harmony and art.
The Catholic Church expresses her esteem for your religions and for your high spiritual values, such as purity, detachment of heart, love for the beauty of nature, and benevolence and compassion for everything that lives.
It gives great joy to know you have come here to carry forward your dialogue and collaboration ... The themes you are discussing ... each from the standpoint of his own religion, are the relationship between religion and culture.
I am deeply convinced these are themes of great importance for the future of our world. Indeed, this conviction of mine is reflected in my first Encyclical Letter, “Redemptor Hominis”. Be assured, then, that I shall follow this dialogue and subsequent ones with interest and appreciation.
We are all pilgrims to the Absolute and Eternal, who alone can save and satisfy the heart of the human person. “Let us seek His will together for the good of all humanity.”
Ref: Ibid, op cit, pp83-4
Jesus teaches with authority
Jesus went to Capharnaum, the most populous town in Galilee and center of commerce. There the river Jordan empties into the Sea of Galilee. Thus, it was peculiarly suited for preaching the Gospel and exercising the infinite charity of Jesus in works of mercy. The inhabitants badly needed such charity for their riches and luxury had thoroughly corrupted them.
On the Sabbath Jesus went to teach in the synagogue. And they were astonished at his doctrine for he taught as one having authority unlike the Scribes. His words impressed them because he spoke as a Master and Lawgiver; and practised what he taught.
Every word and action expressed forgetfulness of himself, and zeal for his Father’s glory and salvation of souls. However, the Scribes openly contradicted their teaching by their lives; their whole conduct betrayed self-interest.
There was in the synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.” (Mk 1:24)
Jesus threatened him, “Speak no more and go out of the man”. The unclean spirit, tearing him and crying aloud went out of him. Everybody was amazed and exclaimed, “What is this? What is this new doctrine? For with power he commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” His fame spread all over Galilee. (cf Mk 1:25-8)
What do we learn here? 1) The misery of a sinner, especially of impurity, gives the devil possession of his heart. 2) The impotence of devils against whoever seek the help of Jesus. 3) How God brings good out of evil. The rage of this unclean spirit raised the reputation of Jesus and disposed persons to accept his teaching.
The evils which God permits the devil to work in the world, he will turn to his own glory and the good of his Church. The economy of salvation puts even the devil to good use. Temptation is an opportunity to prove our worth and earn merits for salvation if we strive to overcome them. And we shall with God’s grace.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp385-7
Saturday is Our Lady’s day
For centuries Christians have given special attention to Mary on Saturdays. Theologians and ecclesiastical writers have explained some of the reasons that make this devotion particularly appropriate. Thus, St Peter Damascene writes that Saturdays commemorate the completion of God’s work of creation.
Saturday, the Sabbath of the Old Law, also anticipates the Lord’s Day, a symbol and sign of heaven. Christ, risen from the dead, is the gateway to eternal life. The Blessed Virgin is our way to Jesus; just as she was his way for coming into the world. (cf G Roschini, “The Mother of God”, Madrid) Mary, “on that day kept faith in the mystery of Christ after his death”. (cf St Thomas Aquinas, “On the Commandments”)
Whatever, we Christians need a special day to honour Our Lady and show her our love in a noteworthy way. And so, since ancient times, special Marian devotions have been held on Saturdays in churches, chapels and shrines throughout the world. Many Christians make a special effort to honour the Blessed Virgin in some distinctive manner on this day.
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, op cit, 4:549-50
Memorial: Our Lady of Louvain, in Belgium. This Virgin, in high veneration in that country, began to work miracles in the year 1444. — Balingham on the Calendar. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com) (http://www.divine will.org/feastofourlady.htm)
Thursday, February 4, 2010
5 February 2010: Zeal of Jesus for His Father’s House
“... the Pasch of the Jews was at hand, and Jesus went to Jerusalem.” (Jn 2:13) This year he went as a Master and Reformer not as a plain worshipper. He proclaimed himself by a striking act of authority --
“He found in the Temple those who sold oxen, sheep and doves; and the money changers, sitting. When he had made a whip of little cords, he drove them all out of the Temple, the sheep, oxen, and money changers. ... and the table he overthrew.” (cf Jn 2:15)
He was resolved to stop a scandalous, sacrilegious, and inveterate abuse which a love of gain had made. Jesus righteously expressed indignation and anger; but without disturbing the interior peace of his soul.
To those who sold doves, he just said, “Take these things” (Jn 2:16). Why this double standard? Because they were poor, more ignorant, and less guilty. Had he dealt with them as the others, they would be deprived of their only means of income. This is contrary to his infinite goodness. Thus, he only frightened them.
Jesus justified his severity to the Jews in these words: “Make not my Father’s house a den of thieves.” (cf Mt 21:13) Let us apply these words to ourselves. Do we make reparation for the insults to God in church by exterior reverence and devotion?
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp361-3
Our Lady’s obedience of faith
Obedience is the virtue in which Our Lady excels every other creature. Even before the Anunciation, Mary would meditate on the Scriptures. She would discover their deepest meaning as no one had ever done before. Her understanding, free from the effects of sin, was enlightened by faith and the fullness of God’s grace.
Furthermore, with the help of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, Our Lady was able to fathom the depths of the Messianic prophecies and longed for the Saviour’s coming. Her insistent prayer was an echo of the constant petition of all the Patriarchs and people of Israel throughout its history. Mary gave glory to God more fully than did all the rest of creation.
The Blessed Trinity favored Mary with a special fondness. She did not place any limitations on fulfilling God’s Will; but left herself totally open to whatever God might want from her. God had prepared the Blessed Virgin for her special mission, filling her with his grace.
The Anunciation brought with it the fulfilment of all that had been in our Lady’s heart. “But it is also the point of departure from which her whole ‘journey towards God’ begins, her whole pilgrimage of faith.” (John Paul II, Encyclical, “Redemptoris Mater”, 13)
The most immediate consequence of our Lady’s faith is her full obedience to God’s plan. This consideration can help us to examine ourselves, to see whether our faith leads us to imitate her obedience. Are we truly willing to fulfil God’s Will in everything, unconditionally? Desiring whatever God wills, whenever and in whatever way he wills it?
We can especially ask ourselves how we accept the ordinary difficulties of our day-- sickness, which we should love if it comes; suffering and sorrow; an unforeseen change in our plans; the failure of a project. In short, anything that interferes with our own desires.
Thus, do both success and failure, enjoyment as well as suffering, lead us to grow in holiness?
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 4:550-52
Mary, God’s Humble Handmaid
As we give thanks to the Omnipotent, whose name is Holy, we, too wish to raise up a hymn of our exultation together, because He has looked upon the lowliness of His servants.
The Blessed Virgin intoned the ‘Magnificat’, knowing that, to accomplish the plan of salvation for all mankind, the Lord willed to bring her, a humble maiden of His People, into association with it. We are here to intone our ‘Magnificat’, after the example of Mary, knowing that we have been summoned by God to a service of redemption and salvation, despite our inadequacy.
The grander the task to be achieved, the poorer the instruments called to collaborate with the divine plan. It is true that the power of God’s arm is made evident by the weakness of the means employed. Thus, the smaller the persons invited to serve, the greater the things which the Almighty is disposed to accomplish through our means ...
‘The Almighty has done great things for me’, Mary declared. She was fully aware of the greatness of her mission; but at the same time, she recognized herself to be, and remained, ‘a lowly servant’, attributing all the merit to God the Savior.
The grandeur of the redemptive mission is accomplished in Mary through perfect accord between the divine omnipotence and humble human docility.
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp198-9
Mary’s increase in grace
As prophesied by Simeon at the Presentation in the Temple, Mary will share the Saviour’s trials. Had the Son of Man not been born, we could never have known the full malice of pride’s revolt against truth.
Mary’s grace had two contrasting effects: the pure joys of the Anunciation and the Nativity; the desire to be united to the sufferings of her Son for our salvation. Thus, presenting Him in the temple, she already offers Him for us. Joy and sorrow join in the heart of the Mother of God, already the Mother of all who will believe in her Son.
Ref: cf R Garrigou-LaGrange, “The Mother of the Saviour and our Interior Life”, 1948, pp111-2
Selection -- “Turn constantly to the most Holy Virgin, the Mother of God and Mother of the human race; and she, with a Mother’s gentleness, will draw down the love of God on the souls you deal with, so that they may make up their minds to be witnesses for Jesus Christ, in their profession, in their ordinary work.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Forge”, 911)
Dedication of the first temple of Our Lady, by St. Peter, at Tripoli, now Tortosa.— Canisius, lib. v. de Beata Virgine, ch. 32. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Dedication of the First Church of Our Lady by St Peter in Tortosa, Italy (http://www.divine will.org/feastofourlady.htm)
(Tripoli [http://www.starharbor.com/santiago/m feasts.html])
“He found in the Temple those who sold oxen, sheep and doves; and the money changers, sitting. When he had made a whip of little cords, he drove them all out of the Temple, the sheep, oxen, and money changers. ... and the table he overthrew.” (cf Jn 2:15)
He was resolved to stop a scandalous, sacrilegious, and inveterate abuse which a love of gain had made. Jesus righteously expressed indignation and anger; but without disturbing the interior peace of his soul.
To those who sold doves, he just said, “Take these things” (Jn 2:16). Why this double standard? Because they were poor, more ignorant, and less guilty. Had he dealt with them as the others, they would be deprived of their only means of income. This is contrary to his infinite goodness. Thus, he only frightened them.
Jesus justified his severity to the Jews in these words: “Make not my Father’s house a den of thieves.” (cf Mt 21:13) Let us apply these words to ourselves. Do we make reparation for the insults to God in church by exterior reverence and devotion?
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp361-3
Our Lady’s obedience of faith
Obedience is the virtue in which Our Lady excels every other creature. Even before the Anunciation, Mary would meditate on the Scriptures. She would discover their deepest meaning as no one had ever done before. Her understanding, free from the effects of sin, was enlightened by faith and the fullness of God’s grace.
Furthermore, with the help of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, Our Lady was able to fathom the depths of the Messianic prophecies and longed for the Saviour’s coming. Her insistent prayer was an echo of the constant petition of all the Patriarchs and people of Israel throughout its history. Mary gave glory to God more fully than did all the rest of creation.
The Blessed Trinity favored Mary with a special fondness. She did not place any limitations on fulfilling God’s Will; but left herself totally open to whatever God might want from her. God had prepared the Blessed Virgin for her special mission, filling her with his grace.
The Anunciation brought with it the fulfilment of all that had been in our Lady’s heart. “But it is also the point of departure from which her whole ‘journey towards God’ begins, her whole pilgrimage of faith.” (John Paul II, Encyclical, “Redemptoris Mater”, 13)
The most immediate consequence of our Lady’s faith is her full obedience to God’s plan. This consideration can help us to examine ourselves, to see whether our faith leads us to imitate her obedience. Are we truly willing to fulfil God’s Will in everything, unconditionally? Desiring whatever God wills, whenever and in whatever way he wills it?
We can especially ask ourselves how we accept the ordinary difficulties of our day-- sickness, which we should love if it comes; suffering and sorrow; an unforeseen change in our plans; the failure of a project. In short, anything that interferes with our own desires.
Thus, do both success and failure, enjoyment as well as suffering, lead us to grow in holiness?
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 4:550-52
Mary, God’s Humble Handmaid
As we give thanks to the Omnipotent, whose name is Holy, we, too wish to raise up a hymn of our exultation together, because He has looked upon the lowliness of His servants.
The Blessed Virgin intoned the ‘Magnificat’, knowing that, to accomplish the plan of salvation for all mankind, the Lord willed to bring her, a humble maiden of His People, into association with it. We are here to intone our ‘Magnificat’, after the example of Mary, knowing that we have been summoned by God to a service of redemption and salvation, despite our inadequacy.
The grander the task to be achieved, the poorer the instruments called to collaborate with the divine plan. It is true that the power of God’s arm is made evident by the weakness of the means employed. Thus, the smaller the persons invited to serve, the greater the things which the Almighty is disposed to accomplish through our means ...
‘The Almighty has done great things for me’, Mary declared. She was fully aware of the greatness of her mission; but at the same time, she recognized herself to be, and remained, ‘a lowly servant’, attributing all the merit to God the Savior.
The grandeur of the redemptive mission is accomplished in Mary through perfect accord between the divine omnipotence and humble human docility.
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp198-9
Mary’s increase in grace
As prophesied by Simeon at the Presentation in the Temple, Mary will share the Saviour’s trials. Had the Son of Man not been born, we could never have known the full malice of pride’s revolt against truth.
Mary’s grace had two contrasting effects: the pure joys of the Anunciation and the Nativity; the desire to be united to the sufferings of her Son for our salvation. Thus, presenting Him in the temple, she already offers Him for us. Joy and sorrow join in the heart of the Mother of God, already the Mother of all who will believe in her Son.
Ref: cf R Garrigou-LaGrange, “The Mother of the Saviour and our Interior Life”, 1948, pp111-2
Selection -- “Turn constantly to the most Holy Virgin, the Mother of God and Mother of the human race; and she, with a Mother’s gentleness, will draw down the love of God on the souls you deal with, so that they may make up their minds to be witnesses for Jesus Christ, in their profession, in their ordinary work.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Forge”, 911)
Dedication of the first temple of Our Lady, by St. Peter, at Tripoli, now Tortosa.— Canisius, lib. v. de Beata Virgine, ch. 32. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Dedication of the First Church of Our Lady by St Peter in Tortosa, Italy (http://www.divine will.org/feastofourlady.htm)
(Tripoli [http://www.starharbor.com/santiago/m feasts.html])
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
4 February 2010: Jesus leaves His Mother
Leaving Cana, “Jesus went to Capharnaum with his Mother and brethren, and there remained a few days” (Jn 2:12). The words, a ‘few days’ are noteworthy. They refer to the last days Jesus spent under the same roof with his Mother and other relations. Afterwards, Jesus truly had neither Mother nor home any more on earth.
He was, henceforth, only ‘the Son of Man’. Sent from God, devoted to his divine mission, he went wherever God’s glory and the salvation of souls called him.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp359-61
Detachment to follow Christ
If we are to follow Christ, our soul must be free -- first, from love of self and an excessive concern for our health or the future ... from riches and material goods. The heart set on earthly goods leaves out God.
‘Christian poverty and detachment’ does not mean disdain for material goods if they are acquired and used in accord with God’s will. Our Lord’s counsel is thus realized in our lives: “Seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be yours as well.” (Mt 6:33)
The more we detach ourselves totally from things, the greater will be our capacity to love others and to appreciate the beauty of creation. If we become lukewarm and share our love of God with objects or seek self-satisfaction, we shall have dislodged Christ from our heart. Material things will imprison and harm us. Sheer possession of material goods will never bring happiness.
The human heart will find the fulness for which it was created, only in God. If we do not act with the fortitude to live this detachment, “The heart is left sad and unsatisfied. ... follows paths which lead to everlasting unhappiness and ends up, a slave, victim of the very same goods which had perhaps been acquired at great effort and countless renunciations”. (cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “Friends of God”, 118)
Christian poverty and detachment share nothing in common with squalor and slovenliness, with neglect and bad manners. Jesus dressed well. His cloak, probably woven by his Mother, had dice thrown for it because “it was without seam, woven from top to bottom” (Jn 19:23); and it had a “fringe” (Mt 9:20; 14:36).
The Holy Family’s house would have been modest, clean, simple, tidy, cheerful, well maintained. There would often probably be some flowers tastefully placed before a memento or decoration.
Effective detachment from things demands sacrifice. Christian life calls for a radical change in attitude towards earthly goods. The Christian lives to love Christ more and more through his work and family; but not to accumulate more and more material goods. If we wish to draw others to the practice of virtue, we must preach by example and precept. For observation is stronger than conversation.
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 3:105, 107-110
Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night
There was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. He was an upright man, in search of the truth. He believed that Jesus was a true prophet, and thought it his duty to seek instruction from him.
But to do so, he must overcome human respect. Otherwise he will incur the ire of the rulers who openly called Jesus a Nazarene impostor, deceiver of the people. Nicodemus had the courage to overcome these constraints but a touch of cowardice restrained him. To avoid notice, he ’came to Jesus by night’. Nicodemus said -- “Rabbi, we know you are a Teacher from God; for no man can do these signs which you do, unless God be with him” (Jn 3:2).
This profession of faith shows Nicodemus to be much more enlightened than the other councilors; but he was still groping in thick darkness. He did not recognize Jesus as the Messiah and misunderstood his doctrines. Jesus, therefore, gently reproached him -- “Art thou a master in Israel and know not these things?” (Jn 3:10)
Nicodemus left Jesus a changed man. His mind was illumined with the light of faith, his heart enkindled with the love of his Lord. He had become a faithful and fervent disciple but seems not eager to express his faith by deeds; never even mingles among the disciples who follow Jesus.
Two years later, at the death of Jesus, he redeemed himself by an heroic act of piety and devotion. Boldly going to Pilate, he demanded the body of his Divine Master and provided it with a magnificent burial.
Perhaps we, too, despite a certain amount of goodwill, have been slow in actual service of God. We may not have done a great or heroic act for God. Let us not be discouraged. Nicodemus redeemed his tardiness heroically, and merited to be counted among the saints. Let us follow his example.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp365-8
We need Christ the Liberator
The spirit of penitence and its practice stimulates us to detach ourselves sincerely from anything superfluous that we have. Sometimes even what is necessary to us, and hinders us from being truly what God wishes us to be: “Where your treasure is, there your heart is also.” (Mt 6:21)
Are our hearts holding on to material riches? To power over others? To egoistically subtle ways of domineering? Then we have need of Christ the Liberator. If we wish, He can free us from these sinful links which are tripping us up.
Let us prepare to let ourselves be enriched by the grace of the Resurrection by ridding ourselves of every false treasure. Those material goods which often we do not need, are for millions of persons essential conditions for survival.
Hundreds of millions of people, in need of the minimum necessary for their subsistence, look to us for help, to find the indispensable means for integral human promotion as well as for economic and cultural development of their countries. But declarations of good intention to make a simple gift are not enough to alter man’s heart.
There is need for conversion of spirit, which can push us to a meeting of hearts and sharing of our lives with the least-favored members of society, with those deprived of everything, sometimes even their dignity as men and women, as boys or girls.
It is there that we meet and more intimately live the mystery of the suffering and redemptive death of the Lord. Real sharing is going out to meet the others; that is what helps us to free ourselves from bonds enslaving us.
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp122-3
Memorial: Our Lady of the Pillar, at Saragossa, in Spain, so called, because, according to the tradition, the Blessed Virgin appeared to St. James the Great, upon a jasper pillar, in the year 36, and ordered him to build a church, which the Spaniards maintained to have been the first dedicated to Our Lady. —Beutereus, lib. 1. c. et 3. ( “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Memorial: Our Lady of Fire (Forli, Italy) (http://www.divine will.org/feastofourlady.htm)
He was, henceforth, only ‘the Son of Man’. Sent from God, devoted to his divine mission, he went wherever God’s glory and the salvation of souls called him.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp359-61
Detachment to follow Christ
If we are to follow Christ, our soul must be free -- first, from love of self and an excessive concern for our health or the future ... from riches and material goods. The heart set on earthly goods leaves out God.
‘Christian poverty and detachment’ does not mean disdain for material goods if they are acquired and used in accord with God’s will. Our Lord’s counsel is thus realized in our lives: “Seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be yours as well.” (Mt 6:33)
The more we detach ourselves totally from things, the greater will be our capacity to love others and to appreciate the beauty of creation. If we become lukewarm and share our love of God with objects or seek self-satisfaction, we shall have dislodged Christ from our heart. Material things will imprison and harm us. Sheer possession of material goods will never bring happiness.
The human heart will find the fulness for which it was created, only in God. If we do not act with the fortitude to live this detachment, “The heart is left sad and unsatisfied. ... follows paths which lead to everlasting unhappiness and ends up, a slave, victim of the very same goods which had perhaps been acquired at great effort and countless renunciations”. (cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “Friends of God”, 118)
Christian poverty and detachment share nothing in common with squalor and slovenliness, with neglect and bad manners. Jesus dressed well. His cloak, probably woven by his Mother, had dice thrown for it because “it was without seam, woven from top to bottom” (Jn 19:23); and it had a “fringe” (Mt 9:20; 14:36).
The Holy Family’s house would have been modest, clean, simple, tidy, cheerful, well maintained. There would often probably be some flowers tastefully placed before a memento or decoration.
Effective detachment from things demands sacrifice. Christian life calls for a radical change in attitude towards earthly goods. The Christian lives to love Christ more and more through his work and family; but not to accumulate more and more material goods. If we wish to draw others to the practice of virtue, we must preach by example and precept. For observation is stronger than conversation.
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 3:105, 107-110
Nicodemus comes to Jesus by night
There was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. He was an upright man, in search of the truth. He believed that Jesus was a true prophet, and thought it his duty to seek instruction from him.
But to do so, he must overcome human respect. Otherwise he will incur the ire of the rulers who openly called Jesus a Nazarene impostor, deceiver of the people. Nicodemus had the courage to overcome these constraints but a touch of cowardice restrained him. To avoid notice, he ’came to Jesus by night’. Nicodemus said -- “Rabbi, we know you are a Teacher from God; for no man can do these signs which you do, unless God be with him” (Jn 3:2).
This profession of faith shows Nicodemus to be much more enlightened than the other councilors; but he was still groping in thick darkness. He did not recognize Jesus as the Messiah and misunderstood his doctrines. Jesus, therefore, gently reproached him -- “Art thou a master in Israel and know not these things?” (Jn 3:10)
Nicodemus left Jesus a changed man. His mind was illumined with the light of faith, his heart enkindled with the love of his Lord. He had become a faithful and fervent disciple but seems not eager to express his faith by deeds; never even mingles among the disciples who follow Jesus.
Two years later, at the death of Jesus, he redeemed himself by an heroic act of piety and devotion. Boldly going to Pilate, he demanded the body of his Divine Master and provided it with a magnificent burial.
Perhaps we, too, despite a certain amount of goodwill, have been slow in actual service of God. We may not have done a great or heroic act for God. Let us not be discouraged. Nicodemus redeemed his tardiness heroically, and merited to be counted among the saints. Let us follow his example.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp365-8
We need Christ the Liberator
The spirit of penitence and its practice stimulates us to detach ourselves sincerely from anything superfluous that we have. Sometimes even what is necessary to us, and hinders us from being truly what God wishes us to be: “Where your treasure is, there your heart is also.” (Mt 6:21)
Are our hearts holding on to material riches? To power over others? To egoistically subtle ways of domineering? Then we have need of Christ the Liberator. If we wish, He can free us from these sinful links which are tripping us up.
Let us prepare to let ourselves be enriched by the grace of the Resurrection by ridding ourselves of every false treasure. Those material goods which often we do not need, are for millions of persons essential conditions for survival.
Hundreds of millions of people, in need of the minimum necessary for their subsistence, look to us for help, to find the indispensable means for integral human promotion as well as for economic and cultural development of their countries. But declarations of good intention to make a simple gift are not enough to alter man’s heart.
There is need for conversion of spirit, which can push us to a meeting of hearts and sharing of our lives with the least-favored members of society, with those deprived of everything, sometimes even their dignity as men and women, as boys or girls.
It is there that we meet and more intimately live the mystery of the suffering and redemptive death of the Lord. Real sharing is going out to meet the others; that is what helps us to free ourselves from bonds enslaving us.
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp122-3
Memorial: Our Lady of the Pillar, at Saragossa, in Spain, so called, because, according to the tradition, the Blessed Virgin appeared to St. James the Great, upon a jasper pillar, in the year 36, and ordered him to build a church, which the Spaniards maintained to have been the first dedicated to Our Lady. —Beutereus, lib. 1. c. et 3. ( “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Memorial: Our Lady of Fire (Forli, Italy) (http://www.divine will.org/feastofourlady.htm)
3 February 2010: Jesus advanced in wisdom, in age, and in grace
All signs of wisdom and knowledge were hidden from the moment of his Incarnation. As Jesus grew up, he allowed a greater wisdom and perfection in his whole conduct. Thus, he appeared to progress like other men whose intellectual development depends on age and experience.
Jesus advanced in grace with God. He practised acts of virtue which were greater, more arduous, more generous, more perfect in their nature. The virtues he practised in his cradle, were developed to a higher degree in his hidden life, higher still in his public life, and to a heroic degree in his last moments.
His advance in grace and virtuous acts attracted the respect of men and the approval of his heavenly Father. In every sense his eminent acts of virtue were exalted by the purest intention and most ardent love.
How did Jesus continually advance in perfection and merit? By leading unnoticed, a domestic life; by doing what men who live with their families generally do. His example in perfection before God and before men, proved in his own person, inspire us to act similarly in the most ordinary circumstances of daily life.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp77-9
To willingly correspond with God’s grace
Much glory is given to God by a soul who freely decides to accept his grace instead of rejecting it! How pleasing to God is the one who, with God’s help, is determined to give fruits of holiness instead of remaining lukewarm. How the saints pleased him! How much glory Our Lady gave him during her time on earth.
God could have created us without any freedom, so that we would give glory to him in the same way that the animals and plants do when they glorify him by their existence. They move according to their instincts, subjected to demands of internal or external stimuli. We could have been made like even more-perfect animals, but without any freedom.
God ‘wanted to create us free’ so that, out of love, we might want and choose to acknowledge our dependence on him; to be able to echo freely Our Blessed Mother’s free assent with her ‘Fiat!’ Making ourselves slaves of God for love makes up, to God, for all the offences others do him through wrong use of their freedom.
Let us enjoy sowing, “each according to his opportunity, ability, charism and ministry” (cf 1 Cor 3:10); “all who sow and reap (cf John 4:37), plant and water, should be one (cf 1 Cor 3:8), so that ‘working together for the same end in a free and orderly manner’ they might devote their powers to the building up of the Church.” (Second Vatican Council, “Ad gentes”, 28)
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 3:136-7
The struggle goes on
God’s kingdom has its beginning in the history of creation including man. At the summit of this long history stands Christ. “The reign of God is at hand.” (Mk 1:15) He spoke of it from the beginning of his messianic teaching and he perseveringly, tirelessly, announced this Kingdom to the chosen people.
Conversion is necessary for being able to regain the full truth of the Kingdom of God. After all, He gave His life for that truth ... Good Friday closed with a controversy over God’s Kingdom.
On the Day of the Resurrection the truth of Christ’s words was confirmed, ... that God’s Kingdom has come to us, the Truth of the whole of His messianic mission. The struggle between the kingdom of the evil spirit and the Kingdom of God has not ceased. It has only entered upon a new stage, the definitive stage, when the struggle goes on in ever new generations of human history.
Do we really have to demonstrate that this struggle continues in our day as well?Yes. Indeed, it develops together with human history in single peoples and nations.
It goes on in each of us. And, by following the history, including our contemporary history, we can also define in what way the kingdom of the malign spirit is not divided; but seeks unity of action in the world and, by various ways, tries to have its effects upon man, on groups, on families, on society. As at the beginning, so also now, it stakes its program on human liberty ... on man’s apparently unlimited liberty.
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, p139
A pledge of love to the Mother of God
In the school of the ‘living Rosary’, we learn to join sacrifice to prayer: there we are taught to concern ourselves mainly with the matters that concern the Lord. In the 'Sorrowful Mysteries' we learn that it is impossible to be a true Christian, and aim for perfection, without spiritually climbing Calvary with Jesus and Mary; and meekly accepting suffering and the crosses that the Lord allows us to bear.
To succeed in this noble undertaking we must ceaselessly fight sin and continuously purify our souls of all sins we have committed. Through meditating on the 'Glorious Mysteries' we can be united with the risen Christ, ardent in our hearts and purified of every stain of sin, so we may carry out his will, in expectation of praising him, for ever.
Reciting the Rosary in this way, we will advance in virtue and be increasingly fervent, knowing that we are in the school of holiness. ...
Make your lives, therefore, an effort to win over others, a generous gift of Apostolate. Pray, too, for the conversion of those who are, unfortunately, far from the grace of God; and petition Our Lady that she may obtain for the Church itself from her divine Son these great goals.
Through your faith in the bosom of your families, and among your contemporaries, spread this form of prayer. The Pope exhorts you to do so by force of example and also with that persistence which is proper to your age. Jesus is with you. Our Lady is with you. They will hear you and ensure peace in your families and in the world.
Ref: cf “The Private Prayers of Pope John Paul II”, 2002, p57
Our Lady of Seidaneida, near Damascus [(http://www.divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm)] From this picture, which was painted on wood, inexhaustible oil exuded, whatever quantity was taken. The virtue of this oil was so great, that it healed even the infidels themselves.—Arnold, Abbot of Lubec cited by Baronius, ann. 870, and by Spon danus, ann. 1203. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Jesus advanced in grace with God. He practised acts of virtue which were greater, more arduous, more generous, more perfect in their nature. The virtues he practised in his cradle, were developed to a higher degree in his hidden life, higher still in his public life, and to a heroic degree in his last moments.
His advance in grace and virtuous acts attracted the respect of men and the approval of his heavenly Father. In every sense his eminent acts of virtue were exalted by the purest intention and most ardent love.
How did Jesus continually advance in perfection and merit? By leading unnoticed, a domestic life; by doing what men who live with their families generally do. His example in perfection before God and before men, proved in his own person, inspire us to act similarly in the most ordinary circumstances of daily life.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp77-9
To willingly correspond with God’s grace
Much glory is given to God by a soul who freely decides to accept his grace instead of rejecting it! How pleasing to God is the one who, with God’s help, is determined to give fruits of holiness instead of remaining lukewarm. How the saints pleased him! How much glory Our Lady gave him during her time on earth.
God could have created us without any freedom, so that we would give glory to him in the same way that the animals and plants do when they glorify him by their existence. They move according to their instincts, subjected to demands of internal or external stimuli. We could have been made like even more-perfect animals, but without any freedom.
God ‘wanted to create us free’ so that, out of love, we might want and choose to acknowledge our dependence on him; to be able to echo freely Our Blessed Mother’s free assent with her ‘Fiat!’ Making ourselves slaves of God for love makes up, to God, for all the offences others do him through wrong use of their freedom.
Let us enjoy sowing, “each according to his opportunity, ability, charism and ministry” (cf 1 Cor 3:10); “all who sow and reap (cf John 4:37), plant and water, should be one (cf 1 Cor 3:8), so that ‘working together for the same end in a free and orderly manner’ they might devote their powers to the building up of the Church.” (Second Vatican Council, “Ad gentes”, 28)
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 3:136-7
The struggle goes on
God’s kingdom has its beginning in the history of creation including man. At the summit of this long history stands Christ. “The reign of God is at hand.” (Mk 1:15) He spoke of it from the beginning of his messianic teaching and he perseveringly, tirelessly, announced this Kingdom to the chosen people.
Conversion is necessary for being able to regain the full truth of the Kingdom of God. After all, He gave His life for that truth ... Good Friday closed with a controversy over God’s Kingdom.
On the Day of the Resurrection the truth of Christ’s words was confirmed, ... that God’s Kingdom has come to us, the Truth of the whole of His messianic mission. The struggle between the kingdom of the evil spirit and the Kingdom of God has not ceased. It has only entered upon a new stage, the definitive stage, when the struggle goes on in ever new generations of human history.
Do we really have to demonstrate that this struggle continues in our day as well?Yes. Indeed, it develops together with human history in single peoples and nations.
It goes on in each of us. And, by following the history, including our contemporary history, we can also define in what way the kingdom of the malign spirit is not divided; but seeks unity of action in the world and, by various ways, tries to have its effects upon man, on groups, on families, on society. As at the beginning, so also now, it stakes its program on human liberty ... on man’s apparently unlimited liberty.
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, p139
A pledge of love to the Mother of God
In the school of the ‘living Rosary’, we learn to join sacrifice to prayer: there we are taught to concern ourselves mainly with the matters that concern the Lord. In the 'Sorrowful Mysteries' we learn that it is impossible to be a true Christian, and aim for perfection, without spiritually climbing Calvary with Jesus and Mary; and meekly accepting suffering and the crosses that the Lord allows us to bear.
To succeed in this noble undertaking we must ceaselessly fight sin and continuously purify our souls of all sins we have committed. Through meditating on the 'Glorious Mysteries' we can be united with the risen Christ, ardent in our hearts and purified of every stain of sin, so we may carry out his will, in expectation of praising him, for ever.
Reciting the Rosary in this way, we will advance in virtue and be increasingly fervent, knowing that we are in the school of holiness. ...
Make your lives, therefore, an effort to win over others, a generous gift of Apostolate. Pray, too, for the conversion of those who are, unfortunately, far from the grace of God; and petition Our Lady that she may obtain for the Church itself from her divine Son these great goals.
Through your faith in the bosom of your families, and among your contemporaries, spread this form of prayer. The Pope exhorts you to do so by force of example and also with that persistence which is proper to your age. Jesus is with you. Our Lady is with you. They will hear you and ensure peace in your families and in the world.
Ref: cf “The Private Prayers of Pope John Paul II”, 2002, p57
Our Lady of Seidaneida, near Damascus [(http://www.divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm)] From this picture, which was painted on wood, inexhaustible oil exuded, whatever quantity was taken. The virtue of this oil was so great, that it healed even the infidels themselves.—Arnold, Abbot of Lubec cited by Baronius, ann. 870, and by Spon danus, ann. 1203. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
2 February 2010: Solemnity -- The Presentation of Our Lord
This feast concludes the Nativity celebration; and with offerings of the Virgin Mother and prophecy of Simeon, events now tend towards Easter. Popularly known as ‘Candelaria’[Candlemas]. (Fr James Socias, et al [Eds], “Daily Roman Missal”, p1468)
Presentation of the Infant Jesus in the Temple
“They carried Him to Jerusalem to present to the Lord, as it is written in the law of the Lord.” (cf Lk 2:23)
This law obliged parents to submit to the purification; and their firstborn son to be redeemed in gratitude that the angel had “passed over” the firstborn of the Hebrews when he struck dead those of the Egyptians.
Mary’s offering of her Son was infinitely more perfect than that of other mothers. The latter’s presentation and redemption was just a legal ceremony. Mary’s offering of her beloved Child to the Lord was real and who one day will be sacrificed for the redemption of the world. She spent the day in fervent recollection, prayer, and good works.
Simeon, a righteous and devout man, led by the Holy Spirit, took the Child into his arms saying: “Now, my Lord, you can let your servant go from this world in peace, just as you promised; because my eyes have seen the Saviour.” (cf Lk 2:29-30) Simeon blessed the parents then said to Mary, “Behold, this child is set for the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed; and a sword will pierce your own soul too.” (cf Lk 2:34-5)
Jesus willed that His whole mortal life, including His tenderest infancy, should be a continual offering of Himself: an endless act of love. We can resolve now to love and serve him more devotedly.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp36-8
Jesus Christ, sign of contradiction
Jesus brings salvation to all people. However, “for some he is a sign of contradiction. The times in which we are living provide particularly strong confirmation of what Simeon said: Jesus is both the light that shines for mankind and a sign of contradiction. ... Jesus Christ is once again revealing himself as the light of the world.” (cf K Wojtyla, “Sign of Contradiction”, p198)
Simeon’s message of warning to Mary establishes a link between the future of both the mother and the Son. “With the old man’s words in mind we, too turn our gaze from the Son to the Mother, from Jesus to Mary. The mystery of this bond which unites her with Christ, the Christ who is a ‘sign of contradiction’ is truly amazing.” (Ibid, op cit, p201)
At the 'Presentation', Mary learns that her destiny is united to her Son’s. The sword Simeon speaks of is her sharing in the sufferings of her Son on the Cross for our sins. Mary’s sufferings are also caused by our sins. “Therefore, we have a duty to atone not only to God but also to his Mother, who is our Mother, too.” (cf “The Navarre Bible”, note to Lk 2:34-5)
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 6:91-2
The light of the Cross
St Bernard refers to a long-standing tradition of mounting a procession of candles in Church. (cf “Journey of the Virgin of Egeria”, Madrid 1980; A G Martimort, "The Church at Prayer", Barcelona 1986)
“Today the Virgin Mary brought to the Temple the Lord of the Temple. Joseph presents to God his adopted son, the Beloved One. Anna the widow joins in with words of thanksgiving. These four people performed the first procession, a joyful procession which will be continued throughout time in every corner of the earth.” (cf St Bernard, “Homily on the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary”, I, 1)
The procession of candles symbolizes how the life of each Christian should give light to others. Christ is the Light of the world. ‘Light’ as a word is often used to signify ‘life’ and ‘truth’. The absence of light suggests solitude, doubt, error. Christ is the ‘Life’ of the world and of every person, the ‘Light’ that shows the way, the ‘Truth’ that saves, the ‘Love’ that fulfils.
Mary listened to Simeon’s prophecy with the same recollection that she received the words of St Gabriel and the shepherds. The Child she held in her arms was the ‘Light’ sent by God the Father, “a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel” (Lk 2:32).
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, op cit, pp90, 92
The virtues Mary practised in her purification
‘Obedience’: On the 40th day after the birth of Jesus, Mary went to the Temple to be purified from the legal stain. She was exempt, having conceived by operation of the Holy Spirit; and remained a virgin. Mary submitted to it from love of the law, and to avoid giving scandal to her neighbors who were ignorant of the great mystery worked in her favor.
‘Humility’: In submitting, Mary consented to lose the prestige of one of her great privileges -- the glory of her virginity by being among the other women. But Mary delighted in humiliations. God knew her virginal purity, and that sufficed. Judgments of men least bother her.
‘Spirit of poverty’: The law of purification required an offering, through the priest, of a year-old lamb, a dove or at least two young pigeons. The rich offered the former. Perhaps Mary, with the gold the Magi had brought, could have made the offering of the rich; but for love of humility she offered two young pigeons.
Where did she learn to esteem voluntary poverty? Doubtless from her Divine Son, who chose to be born in a stable. Like Mary, let us always remember the King of heaven and earth becoming poor for our sakes.
Let us pray about the value of Mary’s offering in the temple. If we learn to join our poor offerings to Christ’s on the Cross, they will acquire an inestimable value.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp34-6
Recovery
“To have a Catholic spirit means that we should feel on our shoulders the weight of our concern for the entire Church -- not just this or that particular part of it. This means our prayer should spread out north and south, east and west, in a generous act of petition.
“If you do this you will understand the cry -- the aspiration -- of that friend of yours, when he considered how unloving so many people are towards our Holy Mother: ‘The Church: it hurts me to see her treated so!’”
Ref: St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Forge”, 583
Memorial: Candlemass or Purification of Our Lady. This feast was instituted in the year 544, under the Emperor Justinian, on occasion of the plague which ravaged Constantinople, where there often died ten thousand persons in a single day. In the year 701, Pope Sergius added to this feast the ceremony of solemnly blessing candles.—Baroninu Annals ann. 544. ( “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Presentation of the Infant Jesus in the Temple
“They carried Him to Jerusalem to present to the Lord, as it is written in the law of the Lord.” (cf Lk 2:23)
This law obliged parents to submit to the purification; and their firstborn son to be redeemed in gratitude that the angel had “passed over” the firstborn of the Hebrews when he struck dead those of the Egyptians.
Mary’s offering of her Son was infinitely more perfect than that of other mothers. The latter’s presentation and redemption was just a legal ceremony. Mary’s offering of her beloved Child to the Lord was real and who one day will be sacrificed for the redemption of the world. She spent the day in fervent recollection, prayer, and good works.
Simeon, a righteous and devout man, led by the Holy Spirit, took the Child into his arms saying: “Now, my Lord, you can let your servant go from this world in peace, just as you promised; because my eyes have seen the Saviour.” (cf Lk 2:29-30) Simeon blessed the parents then said to Mary, “Behold, this child is set for the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed; and a sword will pierce your own soul too.” (cf Lk 2:34-5)
Jesus willed that His whole mortal life, including His tenderest infancy, should be a continual offering of Himself: an endless act of love. We can resolve now to love and serve him more devotedly.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp36-8
Jesus Christ, sign of contradiction
Jesus brings salvation to all people. However, “for some he is a sign of contradiction. The times in which we are living provide particularly strong confirmation of what Simeon said: Jesus is both the light that shines for mankind and a sign of contradiction. ... Jesus Christ is once again revealing himself as the light of the world.” (cf K Wojtyla, “Sign of Contradiction”, p198)
Simeon’s message of warning to Mary establishes a link between the future of both the mother and the Son. “With the old man’s words in mind we, too turn our gaze from the Son to the Mother, from Jesus to Mary. The mystery of this bond which unites her with Christ, the Christ who is a ‘sign of contradiction’ is truly amazing.” (Ibid, op cit, p201)
At the 'Presentation', Mary learns that her destiny is united to her Son’s. The sword Simeon speaks of is her sharing in the sufferings of her Son on the Cross for our sins. Mary’s sufferings are also caused by our sins. “Therefore, we have a duty to atone not only to God but also to his Mother, who is our Mother, too.” (cf “The Navarre Bible”, note to Lk 2:34-5)
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 6:91-2
The light of the Cross
St Bernard refers to a long-standing tradition of mounting a procession of candles in Church. (cf “Journey of the Virgin of Egeria”, Madrid 1980; A G Martimort, "The Church at Prayer", Barcelona 1986)
“Today the Virgin Mary brought to the Temple the Lord of the Temple. Joseph presents to God his adopted son, the Beloved One. Anna the widow joins in with words of thanksgiving. These four people performed the first procession, a joyful procession which will be continued throughout time in every corner of the earth.” (cf St Bernard, “Homily on the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary”, I, 1)
The procession of candles symbolizes how the life of each Christian should give light to others. Christ is the Light of the world. ‘Light’ as a word is often used to signify ‘life’ and ‘truth’. The absence of light suggests solitude, doubt, error. Christ is the ‘Life’ of the world and of every person, the ‘Light’ that shows the way, the ‘Truth’ that saves, the ‘Love’ that fulfils.
Mary listened to Simeon’s prophecy with the same recollection that she received the words of St Gabriel and the shepherds. The Child she held in her arms was the ‘Light’ sent by God the Father, “a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel” (Lk 2:32).
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, op cit, pp90, 92
The virtues Mary practised in her purification
‘Obedience’: On the 40th day after the birth of Jesus, Mary went to the Temple to be purified from the legal stain. She was exempt, having conceived by operation of the Holy Spirit; and remained a virgin. Mary submitted to it from love of the law, and to avoid giving scandal to her neighbors who were ignorant of the great mystery worked in her favor.
‘Humility’: In submitting, Mary consented to lose the prestige of one of her great privileges -- the glory of her virginity by being among the other women. But Mary delighted in humiliations. God knew her virginal purity, and that sufficed. Judgments of men least bother her.
‘Spirit of poverty’: The law of purification required an offering, through the priest, of a year-old lamb, a dove or at least two young pigeons. The rich offered the former. Perhaps Mary, with the gold the Magi had brought, could have made the offering of the rich; but for love of humility she offered two young pigeons.
Where did she learn to esteem voluntary poverty? Doubtless from her Divine Son, who chose to be born in a stable. Like Mary, let us always remember the King of heaven and earth becoming poor for our sakes.
Let us pray about the value of Mary’s offering in the temple. If we learn to join our poor offerings to Christ’s on the Cross, they will acquire an inestimable value.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp34-6
Recovery
“To have a Catholic spirit means that we should feel on our shoulders the weight of our concern for the entire Church -- not just this or that particular part of it. This means our prayer should spread out north and south, east and west, in a generous act of petition.
“If you do this you will understand the cry -- the aspiration -- of that friend of yours, when he considered how unloving so many people are towards our Holy Mother: ‘The Church: it hurts me to see her treated so!’”
Ref: St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Forge”, 583
Memorial: Candlemass or Purification of Our Lady. This feast was instituted in the year 544, under the Emperor Justinian, on occasion of the plague which ravaged Constantinople, where there often died ten thousand persons in a single day. In the year 701, Pope Sergius added to this feast the ceremony of solemnly blessing candles.—Baroninu Annals ann. 544. ( “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Monday, February 1, 2010
1 February 2010: Eve of the Purification of Our Lady
“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com; http://www.divine will.org/feastofourlady.htm
More on the hidden life of Jesus
Jesus went beyond being a perfect model of obedience in His hidden life. He gave examples of many other virtues which we should endeavor to be in our apostolate. The Holy Spirit makes special note of three: gentleness, modesty, and piety.
‘Gentleness’, says St Thomas Aquinas, ‘is the virtue of a noble soul’ who rises above all injuries; remains tranquil even at the moment of assault, his heart at peace.
Modesty, in common with gentleness, has a charm and an attraction for others, besides amplifying all other virtues. The modesty of Jesus as a child and in His youth, was more than angelic; it was divine. How wonderful was His modesty in looks, words, every bodily movement; in the simplicity and uniformity of His exterior life!
Filial piety is that natural feeling of tenderness and devotion in the heart of a child for his father. This is the third special virtue attributed by the Holy Spirit to Jesus. He didn’t need, as we do, to unite Himself with God His Father by prayer and contemplation. And yet how diligent he was in prayer! If during his public life he spent whole nights in prayer, we can safely assume that he devoted the greater part of his hidden life to it.
Do we come close to this model of gentleness, modesty and piety? Do disquiet, impatience, irritation, anger or coldness towards others come easily to us? Do our words breathe humility, self-forgetfulness, reserve, discretion; a desire to glorify God?
Since we do not see God our Father, unless we raise ourselves to Him in spirit by prayer and contemplation, He can never awaken in our hearts the sense of filial piety. Therefore, we ought to have a great esteem for prayer, and be diligent in it.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp73-5
Our Lady and fulfilment of God’s Will
Christ described his new family, with ties stronger than of blood, as “Whoever does the will of God is my brother, and sister, and mother” (Mk 3:31-5). Mary most eminently belongs to this new family because she carried out God’s will with greater love and perfection than anybody ever did.
A double bond unites her to Jesus. First of all, on accepting the Angel’s message, she intimately united herself to God’s will in a way we can not comprehend. Thus, she acquired a spiritual motherhood over the Son whom she conceived. She was bound still more closely to this new family of Jesus.
St Augustine says, “Maternity according to the flesh would have been of little avail to Mary, if she had not first conceived Christ, in a still more fortunate way, in her heart, and only afterwards in her body” (“On Holy Virginity", 3). Mary becomes the mother of Jesus when she conceives him in her womb; his mother when she looks after him, feeds and protects him as any mother does.
But Jesus came to establish the great family of the children of God and “Benignly included in it Mary herself, for she did the will of the Father ... and when He spoke of this heavenly parentage to his disciples, He showed that the Virgin Mary was united to him through a new family lineage.” (Idem, “Epistle 243”, 9-10)
Mary is the mother of Jesus according to the flesh, and is also the ‘first’ among all who hear the Word of God and keep it in its completeness. (cf John Paul II, “Redemptoris Mater”, 25 Mar 1987, 20-21)
St Thomas explains that Jesus places the eternal above the temporal. Every member of the faithful who does the Will of God is a brother of Christ, because he becomes like him who always did the Father’s Will. (cf St Thomas, “Commentary on St Matthew’s Gospel”, 14:49)
Do we always have the desire to do what God wants of us, in big things or small; in what we like and dislike? We can ask our Mother Mary to teach us to love this holy Will in everything even in what we find hard to understand or to interpret adequately. In this way we already belong to Christ’s family.
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 3:124-6
Remember the source of grace
Let us recite the ‘Angelus Domini’, a prayer that is traditional and familiar, which the ringing of your parish bells invites you to every day, echoing from valley to valley. The ‘Angelus Domini’ is one of the most beautiful and comprehensive prayers of devotion to Mary: in it we contemplate God’s plan of salvation and his merciful love for all creation, a plan that is fulfilled in the choice of Mary to become the mother of the Redeemer.
The ‘Angelus Domini’ presents to us the Mother of Jesus as the true and exemplary believer, who with her ‘yes’ becomes the model for all believers. This ‘yes’, which Mary said for the first time with complete availability, was repeated by her in the most difficult situations of her life, as she journeyed all the way to the end of the road of faith.
In the ‘Angelus Domini’ we gratefully remember the fundamental event in which God came among men: ‘And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth.’ He is truly Emmanuel, God with us.
Many pilgrims go to these sanctuaries to invoke God’s mercy and honor the Mother of God. Usually, when we return from a pilgrimage, we bring back a souvernir or a sign that recalls it to memory: the prayer of the ‘Angelus Domini’ could be this sign, which every day reminds us of the source of grace, Jesus Christ, the Son of the Virgin Mary.
Ref: “The Private Prayers of Pope John Paul II”, 2002, p65
Recovery
“Love Saint Joseph a lot. Love him with all your soul, because he, together with Jesus, is the person who has most loved our Blessed Lady and been closest to God. He is the person who has most loved God, after our Mother.
“He deserves your affection, and it will do you good to get to know him, because he is the Master of the interior life, and has great power before the Lord and before the Mother of God.”
Ref: St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Forge”, 554
More on the hidden life of Jesus
Jesus went beyond being a perfect model of obedience in His hidden life. He gave examples of many other virtues which we should endeavor to be in our apostolate. The Holy Spirit makes special note of three: gentleness, modesty, and piety.
‘Gentleness’, says St Thomas Aquinas, ‘is the virtue of a noble soul’ who rises above all injuries; remains tranquil even at the moment of assault, his heart at peace.
Modesty, in common with gentleness, has a charm and an attraction for others, besides amplifying all other virtues. The modesty of Jesus as a child and in His youth, was more than angelic; it was divine. How wonderful was His modesty in looks, words, every bodily movement; in the simplicity and uniformity of His exterior life!
Filial piety is that natural feeling of tenderness and devotion in the heart of a child for his father. This is the third special virtue attributed by the Holy Spirit to Jesus. He didn’t need, as we do, to unite Himself with God His Father by prayer and contemplation. And yet how diligent he was in prayer! If during his public life he spent whole nights in prayer, we can safely assume that he devoted the greater part of his hidden life to it.
Do we come close to this model of gentleness, modesty and piety? Do disquiet, impatience, irritation, anger or coldness towards others come easily to us? Do our words breathe humility, self-forgetfulness, reserve, discretion; a desire to glorify God?
Since we do not see God our Father, unless we raise ourselves to Him in spirit by prayer and contemplation, He can never awaken in our hearts the sense of filial piety. Therefore, we ought to have a great esteem for prayer, and be diligent in it.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp73-5
Our Lady and fulfilment of God’s Will
Christ described his new family, with ties stronger than of blood, as “Whoever does the will of God is my brother, and sister, and mother” (Mk 3:31-5). Mary most eminently belongs to this new family because she carried out God’s will with greater love and perfection than anybody ever did.
A double bond unites her to Jesus. First of all, on accepting the Angel’s message, she intimately united herself to God’s will in a way we can not comprehend. Thus, she acquired a spiritual motherhood over the Son whom she conceived. She was bound still more closely to this new family of Jesus.
St Augustine says, “Maternity according to the flesh would have been of little avail to Mary, if she had not first conceived Christ, in a still more fortunate way, in her heart, and only afterwards in her body” (“On Holy Virginity", 3). Mary becomes the mother of Jesus when she conceives him in her womb; his mother when she looks after him, feeds and protects him as any mother does.
But Jesus came to establish the great family of the children of God and “Benignly included in it Mary herself, for she did the will of the Father ... and when He spoke of this heavenly parentage to his disciples, He showed that the Virgin Mary was united to him through a new family lineage.” (Idem, “Epistle 243”, 9-10)
Mary is the mother of Jesus according to the flesh, and is also the ‘first’ among all who hear the Word of God and keep it in its completeness. (cf John Paul II, “Redemptoris Mater”, 25 Mar 1987, 20-21)
St Thomas explains that Jesus places the eternal above the temporal. Every member of the faithful who does the Will of God is a brother of Christ, because he becomes like him who always did the Father’s Will. (cf St Thomas, “Commentary on St Matthew’s Gospel”, 14:49)
Do we always have the desire to do what God wants of us, in big things or small; in what we like and dislike? We can ask our Mother Mary to teach us to love this holy Will in everything even in what we find hard to understand or to interpret adequately. In this way we already belong to Christ’s family.
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 3:124-6
Remember the source of grace
Let us recite the ‘Angelus Domini’, a prayer that is traditional and familiar, which the ringing of your parish bells invites you to every day, echoing from valley to valley. The ‘Angelus Domini’ is one of the most beautiful and comprehensive prayers of devotion to Mary: in it we contemplate God’s plan of salvation and his merciful love for all creation, a plan that is fulfilled in the choice of Mary to become the mother of the Redeemer.
The ‘Angelus Domini’ presents to us the Mother of Jesus as the true and exemplary believer, who with her ‘yes’ becomes the model for all believers. This ‘yes’, which Mary said for the first time with complete availability, was repeated by her in the most difficult situations of her life, as she journeyed all the way to the end of the road of faith.
In the ‘Angelus Domini’ we gratefully remember the fundamental event in which God came among men: ‘And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth.’ He is truly Emmanuel, God with us.
Many pilgrims go to these sanctuaries to invoke God’s mercy and honor the Mother of God. Usually, when we return from a pilgrimage, we bring back a souvernir or a sign that recalls it to memory: the prayer of the ‘Angelus Domini’ could be this sign, which every day reminds us of the source of grace, Jesus Christ, the Son of the Virgin Mary.
Ref: “The Private Prayers of Pope John Paul II”, 2002, p65
Recovery
“Love Saint Joseph a lot. Love him with all your soul, because he, together with Jesus, is the person who has most loved our Blessed Lady and been closest to God. He is the person who has most loved God, after our Mother.
“He deserves your affection, and it will do you good to get to know him, because he is the Master of the interior life, and has great power before the Lord and before the Mother of God.”
Ref: St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Forge”, 554
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