(Fr James Socias, ‘et al’ [Eds], “Daily Roman Missal”, 1989, p1907)
Charity unites, pride divides
St Paul wrote to the Christians of Ephesus: “I beg you to lead a life worthy of the vocation to which you have been called, with all lowliness and meekness, with patience, with forbearing for one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (cf “The Navarre Bible, Captivity Epistles”)
He lists the virtues: humility, gentleness, longanimity; various manifestations of charity, the bond of unity in the Church. “The temple of the King is not ruined, or cracked or divided: the cement of the living stones is charity.” (St Augustine, “Commentary on Psalm 44”)
Charity unites, pride separates. The first Christians showed their love for the Church through a charity which overcame all barriers.
One of the earliest Apologists, in the second century, described the behaviour of the first Christians as follows: “they love one another, they do not despise widows and they rescue orphans from those who treat them with violence; and he who has, gives unbegrudgingly to him who has not.” (Aristides, “Apology”, XV, 5-7)
However, the greatest charity was directed towards strengthening the brethren in the faith. The ‘Acts of the Martyrs’ recount in almost every page specific details of this concern for fidelity of the others.
Truly “it was Love that enabled them to make their way through that corrupt pagan world” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Friends of God”, 172). Love for the brethren and the pagans.
Let us have recourse to our Mother Mary. “May she, the Mother of love and unity, bind us closely, in order that, like the first community born from the Cenacle, we may be ‘one heart and one soul’. May she, the ‘Mother of Unity’, in whose womb the Son of God was united to humanity, inaugurating mystically the nuptial union of the Lord with all men, help us to be ‘one’ and to become instruments of unity, among Christians and among all men.” (John Paul II, “Homily”, 24 March 1980)
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:352-4
Communion of the Saints -- If you feel the communion of saints -- if you live it -- you’ll gladly be a man of penance. And you will realize that penance is “joy in spite of hardship”, and you will feel yourself “allied” to all the penitent souls that have been, that are, and that ever will be. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 548)
The Apostolate -- Unity. Unity and submission. What do I want with the loose parts of a clock -- even though they are finely wrought -- if they can’t tell me the time? (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 962)
Jesus reproves and instructs the two disciples
Our Lord, having drawn the prejudices and incredulity from the lips of the two disciples, severely reproves them. “O foolish and slow of heart to believe in all things the prophets have spoken.” (Lk 24:25)
Severe, but neither bitter nor in anger. The disciples received it with humility; without comment. They felt it was prompted by charity.
Nothing is more fatal than acquisition of bad habits. These slowly become part of ourselves and are very difficult to shake off. “Habit becomes second nature.” (St Augustine)
We must be vigilant about seemingly innocuous tendencies. Our directors deserve credit for spotting our omissions in time; and if necessary, reprove us before it is too late for correction.
This is a great advantage and we must appreciate it. Let us not imitate the sick man who gets angry with the surgeon, who, to cure him, is often obliged to cause him pain. Receive correction, and, as the two disciples did, without reply, humbly, gratefully, with sincere desire of amendment.
The person at fault should know he is wrong and for which he requires instruction, for correction to be of real service. This was our Lord’s way with the two disciples by explaining that the prophecies about the Messiah contradict their errors on his doctrine of self-denial and humility. He says, “Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and so to enter into his glory?” (Lk 24:26)
We clearly see the only road to eternal salvation pointed out by the Infallible Word himself: the way of the cross. Should I think myself wiser to deserve an easier way than my Master? By leading a soft life? Isn’t this absurd?
“Beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted the things about him.” (cf Lk 24:27) Our Lord could have enlightened them by a single ray of his grace. Why this long exposition of the prophetic writers?
To teach us that we must obtain and preserve the comprehension of doctrinal matters by diligently reading Holy Scripture and spiritual books. Is carelessness in spiritual reading the cause of our want of faith and light?
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp216-8
The use of holy water to conquer the devil
“You ask me why I always recommend, with such insistence, the daily use of holy water. I could give you many reasons. But there could be none better than that of the Saint of Avila: ‘From nothing do evil spirits flee more precipitately, never to return, than from holy water.’” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 572)
John Paul II exhorts us, when we pray, to think more about the last petition of the “Our Father: Lead us not into temptation. Deliver us from Evil -- from the Evil One. Do not let us give in, Lord, to the infidelity towards which the one who has been unfaithful right from the beginning entices us.” (“General Audience”, 13 August 1986)
The best way to show that we want to replace the devil’s ‘non serviam’ with our personal ‘Serviam: I will serve you, Lord’, is by a special effort to improve in our faithfulness to what we know God wants of us.
Ref: Cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:36
Presence of God
Make it a habit to raise your heart to God, in acts of thanksgiving, many times a day. Because he gives you this and that ... Because someone has despised you ... Because you don’t have what you need, or because you do have it.
And because he made his Mother, who is also your Mother, so beautiful. Because he created the sun and the moon and this animal or that plant. Because he made that man eloquent and you left slow of speech. ...
Thank him for everything, because everything is good.
Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 268
• Pope Calistus III grants Indulgences to visitors of Cathedral of Arras, which holds a Marian veil and cincture (sash). 1455. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Pope Calixtus III grants indulgences to those who visit the Cathedral of Arras, where a veil and cinture of Our Lady are kept (1455). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Indulgences granted to whoever visit the Cathedral of Arras where a veil and a cincture of Our Lady are preserved. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of Mende, Africa (16th Century). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (http://mariedenazareth.com)
Sunday, April 22, 2012
22 April 2012: Christ Draws All to Himself
Among the crowds who had come to Jerusalem were some Greeks who professed monotheism and frequented the synagogue. These Gentiles accepted certain practices of the Mosaic Law, such as prayer, almsgiving, the Sabbath rest, and the annual pilgrimages.
Noting the reception given to Jesus on Palm Sunday, and hearing about the miracles he had performed, these men [Greek Gentiles] keenly desired to meet him and converse with him. They approached Philip, who came from Bethsaida in Galilee, a town where Jews and Gentiles mixed and mingled. He had a Greek name, and he must have understood Greek.
They said to him: “Sir, we should like to see Jesus.” (Jn 12:21) Philip consulted Andrew and they told Jesus.
St John does not tell us if Jesus granted the Gentiles their request. We would like to believe the interview was given for Jesus never rejected anybody.
He patiently instructed the Samaritan woman, heard the centurion’s prayer and praised his faith, did not resist the repeated prayer of the Canaanite woman, and he cured the Samaritan leper. We would like to think these men were the first fruits of the spread of the Christian faith in the Hellenic world. Besides, the event would give greater meaning to our Lord’s exclamation about his glorification, which also involved drawing all men to himself.
The Greeks’ request seemed to have brought to Jesus’ mind the immense fields in which the Church would reap countless souls for God’s glory. He looked beyond Andrew and Philip, and said: “Now the hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.” (Jn 12:23) For a fleeting moment, the Redeemer contemplated his triumph over Satan.
Ref: Cf Fr M Guzman, “Encounters With Christ”, 1990, pp120-21
Holy Purity
The spotless purity of John’s whole life makes him strong facing the cross. The rest of the Apostles flee fom Golgotha. He, with the Mother of Christ, remains. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 144)
The Christian Apostolate
St John has recorded a wonderful phrase by our Lady. At Cana she told the waiters: “Do whatever he tells you.” (Jn 2:5) It’s all about getting people to face Jesus and ask him: “Lord what do you want me to do?” (Acts 9:6)
The christian apostolate -- about an ordinary Christian living as just one more man or woman among equals -- is a great work of teaching. Through real, personal, loyal friendship, you create in others a hunger for God and you help them to discover new horizons: naturally, simply. With the example of your faith lived to the full, with a loving word which is full of the force of divine truth.
Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 149
Unity among Christians
“The company of those who believed were of one heart and soul.” (Acts 4:32) These words summarize the deep unity and fraternal love of the first Christians, which attracted so much attention from their fellow citizens.
“The disciples bore testimony to the Resurrection not only with their words but also with their virtues.” (St John Chrysostom, “Homilies on the Acts of the Apostles”, 11)
Christ expressly wished this Church unity from the very start. He speaks of one Pastor (cf Jn 10:16); emphasizes the Kingdom which cannot be divided (cf Mt 12:25), of the building with a single foundation (cf Mt 16:18). This unity was always founded on the profession of one faith, observance of a single form of worship; and submission to a sole hierarchical authority, constituted by Christ.
“There is only one Church of Jesus Christ which is like a big tree into which we are all grafted. It’s a matter of a deep vital unity which is a gift from God. It is not merely, nor above all, an external unity; it is a mystery and a gift ...
“This unity then is shown around him who in each diocese has been constituted as Shepherd, the Bishop. In the universal Church it is shown around the Pope, the Successor of Peter.” (John Paul II, “Homily”, Madrid, 3 November 1982)
The unity of faith was, among the first Christians, the support of their fortitude and of the inner life which flowed over into the exterior. The same Christian life has been lived since then by very different peoples. “... they shared, experienced and transmitted one single doctrine with the same soul and the same heart and identical voice.” (St Irenaeus, “Adversus Haereses”, 1, 10, 2)
The first Christians defended this unity of theirs to the point of facing persecution and even martyrdom. The Church has always encouraged her children to watch over their precious unity and pray for it. Our Lord prayed for it at the last Supper: “that they all may be one; even as thou, Father, are in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us” (Jn 17:21).
Unity is a great benefit; we must daily implore it because “every kingdom divided against itself cannot stand” (Mt 12:25).
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:349-50
Jesus reproves and instructs the two disciples
Our Lord, having drawn the prejudices and incredulity from the lips of the two disciples, severely reproves them. O foolish and slow of heart to believe in all things the prophets have spoken. (Lk 24:25)
Severe, but neither bitter nor in anger. The disciples received it with humility; without comment. They felt it was prompted by charity.
Nothing is more fatal than acquisition of bad habits. These slowly become part of ourselves and are very difficult to shake off. Habit becomes second nature. (St Augustine)
We must be vigilant about seemingly innocuous tendencies. Our directors deserve credit for spotting our omissions in time; and if necessary, reprove us before it is too late for correction.
This is a great advantage and we must appreciate it. Let us not imitate the sick man who gets angry with the surgeon, who, to cure him, is often obliged to cause him pain. Receive correction, and, as the two disciples did, without reply, humbly, gratefully, with sincere desire of amendment.
The person at fault should know he is wrong and for which he requires instruction, for correction to be of real service. This was our Lord’s way with the two disciples by explaining that the prophecies about the Messiah contradict their errors on his doctrine of self-denial and humility. He says, "Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and so to enter into his glory?" (Lk 24:26)
We clearly see the only road to eternal salvation pointed out by the Infallible Word himself: the way of the cross. Should I think myself wiser to deserve an easier way than my Master? By leading a soft life? Isn’t this absurd?
Beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted the things about him. (cf Lk 24:27) Our Lord could have enlightened them by a single ray of his grace. Why this long exposition of the prophetic writers?
To teach us that we must obtain and preserve the comprehension of doctrinal matters by diligently reading Holy Scripture and spiritual books. Is carelessness in spiritual reading the cause of our want of faith and light?
Ref: Cf "Practical Meditations" by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp216-8
• Grant of indulgences by Pope Calixtus III in the year 1455, to whoever visit the cathedral of Arras where a veil and girdle of Our Lady are preserved. — Andreas Herby, from the Manuscripts of the Church of Arras.) (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Betharam, in the diocese of Lescar, in the province of Bearn. This image was found in the year 1503 by some shepherds who, seeing an extraordinary light on the spot where the high altar of the chapel now stands, came up and found an image of Our Lady, for which they at once erected a chapel. — Triple Couronne. n. 32. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Betharam, France (1503). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
• Our Lady of Betharam (Diocese of Lescar: Bearn, France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of Betharam diocese of Lescar: Bearn France. 1503. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• “Notre Dame de Betharam”. Diocese of Lescar, Bearn, France. 1503. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of Splendor (Italy, 1557) (http://mariedenazareth.com)
Noting the reception given to Jesus on Palm Sunday, and hearing about the miracles he had performed, these men [Greek Gentiles] keenly desired to meet him and converse with him. They approached Philip, who came from Bethsaida in Galilee, a town where Jews and Gentiles mixed and mingled. He had a Greek name, and he must have understood Greek.
They said to him: “Sir, we should like to see Jesus.” (Jn 12:21) Philip consulted Andrew and they told Jesus.
St John does not tell us if Jesus granted the Gentiles their request. We would like to believe the interview was given for Jesus never rejected anybody.
He patiently instructed the Samaritan woman, heard the centurion’s prayer and praised his faith, did not resist the repeated prayer of the Canaanite woman, and he cured the Samaritan leper. We would like to think these men were the first fruits of the spread of the Christian faith in the Hellenic world. Besides, the event would give greater meaning to our Lord’s exclamation about his glorification, which also involved drawing all men to himself.
The Greeks’ request seemed to have brought to Jesus’ mind the immense fields in which the Church would reap countless souls for God’s glory. He looked beyond Andrew and Philip, and said: “Now the hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.” (Jn 12:23) For a fleeting moment, the Redeemer contemplated his triumph over Satan.
Ref: Cf Fr M Guzman, “Encounters With Christ”, 1990, pp120-21
Holy Purity
The spotless purity of John’s whole life makes him strong facing the cross. The rest of the Apostles flee fom Golgotha. He, with the Mother of Christ, remains. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 144)
The Christian Apostolate
St John has recorded a wonderful phrase by our Lady. At Cana she told the waiters: “Do whatever he tells you.” (Jn 2:5) It’s all about getting people to face Jesus and ask him: “Lord what do you want me to do?” (Acts 9:6)
The christian apostolate -- about an ordinary Christian living as just one more man or woman among equals -- is a great work of teaching. Through real, personal, loyal friendship, you create in others a hunger for God and you help them to discover new horizons: naturally, simply. With the example of your faith lived to the full, with a loving word which is full of the force of divine truth.
Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 149
Unity among Christians
“The company of those who believed were of one heart and soul.” (Acts 4:32) These words summarize the deep unity and fraternal love of the first Christians, which attracted so much attention from their fellow citizens.
“The disciples bore testimony to the Resurrection not only with their words but also with their virtues.” (St John Chrysostom, “Homilies on the Acts of the Apostles”, 11)
Christ expressly wished this Church unity from the very start. He speaks of one Pastor (cf Jn 10:16); emphasizes the Kingdom which cannot be divided (cf Mt 12:25), of the building with a single foundation (cf Mt 16:18). This unity was always founded on the profession of one faith, observance of a single form of worship; and submission to a sole hierarchical authority, constituted by Christ.
“There is only one Church of Jesus Christ which is like a big tree into which we are all grafted. It’s a matter of a deep vital unity which is a gift from God. It is not merely, nor above all, an external unity; it is a mystery and a gift ...
“This unity then is shown around him who in each diocese has been constituted as Shepherd, the Bishop. In the universal Church it is shown around the Pope, the Successor of Peter.” (John Paul II, “Homily”, Madrid, 3 November 1982)
The unity of faith was, among the first Christians, the support of their fortitude and of the inner life which flowed over into the exterior. The same Christian life has been lived since then by very different peoples. “... they shared, experienced and transmitted one single doctrine with the same soul and the same heart and identical voice.” (St Irenaeus, “Adversus Haereses”, 1, 10, 2)
The first Christians defended this unity of theirs to the point of facing persecution and even martyrdom. The Church has always encouraged her children to watch over their precious unity and pray for it. Our Lord prayed for it at the last Supper: “that they all may be one; even as thou, Father, are in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us” (Jn 17:21).
Unity is a great benefit; we must daily implore it because “every kingdom divided against itself cannot stand” (Mt 12:25).
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:349-50
Jesus reproves and instructs the two disciples
Our Lord, having drawn the prejudices and incredulity from the lips of the two disciples, severely reproves them. O foolish and slow of heart to believe in all things the prophets have spoken. (Lk 24:25)
Severe, but neither bitter nor in anger. The disciples received it with humility; without comment. They felt it was prompted by charity.
Nothing is more fatal than acquisition of bad habits. These slowly become part of ourselves and are very difficult to shake off. Habit becomes second nature. (St Augustine)
We must be vigilant about seemingly innocuous tendencies. Our directors deserve credit for spotting our omissions in time; and if necessary, reprove us before it is too late for correction.
This is a great advantage and we must appreciate it. Let us not imitate the sick man who gets angry with the surgeon, who, to cure him, is often obliged to cause him pain. Receive correction, and, as the two disciples did, without reply, humbly, gratefully, with sincere desire of amendment.
The person at fault should know he is wrong and for which he requires instruction, for correction to be of real service. This was our Lord’s way with the two disciples by explaining that the prophecies about the Messiah contradict their errors on his doctrine of self-denial and humility. He says, "Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and so to enter into his glory?" (Lk 24:26)
We clearly see the only road to eternal salvation pointed out by the Infallible Word himself: the way of the cross. Should I think myself wiser to deserve an easier way than my Master? By leading a soft life? Isn’t this absurd?
Beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted the things about him. (cf Lk 24:27) Our Lord could have enlightened them by a single ray of his grace. Why this long exposition of the prophetic writers?
To teach us that we must obtain and preserve the comprehension of doctrinal matters by diligently reading Holy Scripture and spiritual books. Is carelessness in spiritual reading the cause of our want of faith and light?
Ref: Cf "Practical Meditations" by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp216-8
• Grant of indulgences by Pope Calixtus III in the year 1455, to whoever visit the cathedral of Arras where a veil and girdle of Our Lady are preserved. — Andreas Herby, from the Manuscripts of the Church of Arras.) (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Betharam, in the diocese of Lescar, in the province of Bearn. This image was found in the year 1503 by some shepherds who, seeing an extraordinary light on the spot where the high altar of the chapel now stands, came up and found an image of Our Lady, for which they at once erected a chapel. — Triple Couronne. n. 32. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Betharam, France (1503). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
• Our Lady of Betharam (Diocese of Lescar: Bearn, France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of Betharam diocese of Lescar: Bearn France. 1503. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• “Notre Dame de Betharam”. Diocese of Lescar, Bearn, France. 1503. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of Splendor (Italy, 1557) (http://mariedenazareth.com)
Saturday, April 21, 2012
21 April 2012: We are never alone
In life, there will be no shortage of interior darkness, of misunderstandings. Oftentimes, situations arise wherein we must correct our course because we are lost.
Then we should strive to see Our Lord, who always comes in the trial of suffering. Let us learn to accept the setbacks with faith, as blessings from heaven to purify us and draw us closer to God.
It is enough to be in his company for us to feel secure always. Insecurity arises when our faith is weakened, when we don’t have recourse to Our Lord because it seems that he doesn’t hear us or maybe doesn’t care.
He knows very well what is happening to us. He wants us to go to him and ask for help. He will never leave us alone.
What confidence the words of Jesus contained in the Communion Antiphon should inspire in us: “Father, I desire that they also, whom thou hast given me, may be with me where I am.” (Jn 17:24)
It would seem sometimes of greater or less duration that Christ is not there, as if He had abandoned us or did not hear our prayer. But he is never the one who abandons.
“The Lord looks on those who revere him to rescue their souls from death.” (Ps 32:18-9) If we remain close to Our Lord in personal prayer and the Sacraments, we will be able to do everything.
With Him the storms -- interior or exterior -- are converted into occasions for increasing our faith and hope and charity and fortitude. Eventually, we may come to understand the meaning of these afflictions.
We will emerge from all trials, temptations and tribulations through which we must pass if we are close to Christ, more purified, humbler, and with more love of God. And we shall always be able to count on the help of Our Mother in Heaven. She is there all the time, but especially when for whatever reason we are experiencing difficulties.
“You are not alone. Suffer that tribulation joyfully. It’s true, poor child, that you don’t feel your Mother’s hand in yours. But ... have you never seen the mothers of this earth, with arms outstretched, following their little ones when, without anyone’s help, they venture to take their first shaky steps? You are not alone: Mary is close beside you.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 900)
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:377-80
Our Lord appears to two disciples on their way to Emmaus
Towards evening on the day of the Resurrection, two of the disciples were travelling toward Emmaus where one had some property. No doubt they needed some distraction after the sorrowful events. Still, the passion and death of their Master was the only theme during their journey.
We are not forbidden to relax at proper times, or to seek assistance when wearied or sorrowful. These things are not incompatible with a desire for perfection. But where do we seek consolations?
Perhaps, in long and frivolous conversation; in light reading or in risky sensual pleasures. True consolation is not to be found in creatures apart from God.
“While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them; but their eyes were kept from recognizing him.” (Lk 24:15-6) Why did our Lord join them? To correct their errors, to give them instruction and consolation, and to strengthen them in the right way.
Such should be also the aim of our conversation, even at recreation, at home; or with whom we occasionally meet anywhere. Charity and duty oblige us to try that these persons should be better with our interaction; or at least, derive something good from it.
Jesus “said to them, ‘What are you discussing with each other as you walk, and are sad?’" (cf Lk 24:17) Why did our Lord, who knew the innermost thoughts of men, thus question his disciples? By drawing from their own lips the worldly ideas about the promised Messiah, Jesus wants them to see their errors more clearly and ensure their correction.
Let us learn from this incident how we can best correct the faults of others. We, too, should question them, drawing the words from their own mouths, and showing the gravity and effects of their errors.
They will then be properly disposed to receive correction. We shall have accorded them a lasting benefit. Do we share this wise line of conduct?
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp212-4
A Path of Faith
Lent is presented ‘in the likeness of a path’, like that to which God called Abraham: “Go forth from the land of your kinsfolk and from your father’s house to a land I will show you.” (Gen 12:1) He set off, without lingering nor any support other than the divine promise.
Lent is a journey for us, too. We are called to face it with determination; to entrust ourselves to the plans God has for us. Even though the journey may be full of trials, St Paul assures us that, like Timothy, each of us is helped by “the strength which comes from God” (2 Tim 1:8).
And the country toward which we are heading is ‘the Christian’s new life’. It is a paschal Life, which can be realized only through the ‘power’ and the ‘grace’ of God: a mysterious power, “the grace held out to us in Christ Jesus before the world began but now made manifest by the appearance of our Savior. He has robbed death of its power and has brought life and immortality into clear light through the gospel.” (2 Tim 1:9-10)
The letter to Timothy also points out that the bread of new life is given to us because of a mysterious calling and assignment on God’s part “not because of any merit of ours but according to His own design” (2 Tim 1:9). So we ought to be men and women of faith, like Abraham; that is, who do not count so much on themselves as on the word, the grace and the power of God.
The Lord Jesus, while living on earth, personally revealed this way to His disciples.
Ref: Cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp113-4
Examination of Conscience
235 A daily task. Book-keeping -- never neglected by anyone in business.
And is there any business worth more than that of eternal life? (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”)
237 Examine yourself: slowly, with courage. Isn’t it true that your bad temper and your sadness -- both without cause, without apparent cause -- are due to your lack of determination in breaking the subtle but real snares laid for you -- cunningly and attractively -- by your concupiscence? (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, )
238 The general examination is a weapon of defense. The particular [examination], of attack. The first is the shield, The second, the sword. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”)
• Institution of the Confraternity of the Immaculate Conception, at Toledo, in the year 1506, by Cardinal Francis Ximenes, archbishop of that city. — See his Life by Gormez, etc. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Institution of the Confraternity of the Immaculate Conception, Toledo, Spain (1506). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Institution of the Confraternity of the Immaculate Conception in 1503. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of the Slap (Italy, 1200) (http://mariedenazareth.com)
• “Notre Dame of Fourviéres” (Lyons, France). Moveable feast -- Saturday after Low Sunday [15 Apr]. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of the Pearls. Palermo, Italy. Moveable feast -- Saturday after Low Sunday [15 Apr]. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of the Valley Catamarca, Argentina. Moveable feast -- Saturday after Low Sunday [15 Apr]. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Then we should strive to see Our Lord, who always comes in the trial of suffering. Let us learn to accept the setbacks with faith, as blessings from heaven to purify us and draw us closer to God.
It is enough to be in his company for us to feel secure always. Insecurity arises when our faith is weakened, when we don’t have recourse to Our Lord because it seems that he doesn’t hear us or maybe doesn’t care.
He knows very well what is happening to us. He wants us to go to him and ask for help. He will never leave us alone.
What confidence the words of Jesus contained in the Communion Antiphon should inspire in us: “Father, I desire that they also, whom thou hast given me, may be with me where I am.” (Jn 17:24)
It would seem sometimes of greater or less duration that Christ is not there, as if He had abandoned us or did not hear our prayer. But he is never the one who abandons.
“The Lord looks on those who revere him to rescue their souls from death.” (Ps 32:18-9) If we remain close to Our Lord in personal prayer and the Sacraments, we will be able to do everything.
With Him the storms -- interior or exterior -- are converted into occasions for increasing our faith and hope and charity and fortitude. Eventually, we may come to understand the meaning of these afflictions.
We will emerge from all trials, temptations and tribulations through which we must pass if we are close to Christ, more purified, humbler, and with more love of God. And we shall always be able to count on the help of Our Mother in Heaven. She is there all the time, but especially when for whatever reason we are experiencing difficulties.
“You are not alone. Suffer that tribulation joyfully. It’s true, poor child, that you don’t feel your Mother’s hand in yours. But ... have you never seen the mothers of this earth, with arms outstretched, following their little ones when, without anyone’s help, they venture to take their first shaky steps? You are not alone: Mary is close beside you.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 900)
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:377-80
Our Lord appears to two disciples on their way to Emmaus
Towards evening on the day of the Resurrection, two of the disciples were travelling toward Emmaus where one had some property. No doubt they needed some distraction after the sorrowful events. Still, the passion and death of their Master was the only theme during their journey.
We are not forbidden to relax at proper times, or to seek assistance when wearied or sorrowful. These things are not incompatible with a desire for perfection. But where do we seek consolations?
Perhaps, in long and frivolous conversation; in light reading or in risky sensual pleasures. True consolation is not to be found in creatures apart from God.
“While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them; but their eyes were kept from recognizing him.” (Lk 24:15-6) Why did our Lord join them? To correct their errors, to give them instruction and consolation, and to strengthen them in the right way.
Such should be also the aim of our conversation, even at recreation, at home; or with whom we occasionally meet anywhere. Charity and duty oblige us to try that these persons should be better with our interaction; or at least, derive something good from it.
Jesus “said to them, ‘What are you discussing with each other as you walk, and are sad?’" (cf Lk 24:17) Why did our Lord, who knew the innermost thoughts of men, thus question his disciples? By drawing from their own lips the worldly ideas about the promised Messiah, Jesus wants them to see their errors more clearly and ensure their correction.
Let us learn from this incident how we can best correct the faults of others. We, too, should question them, drawing the words from their own mouths, and showing the gravity and effects of their errors.
They will then be properly disposed to receive correction. We shall have accorded them a lasting benefit. Do we share this wise line of conduct?
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp212-4
A Path of Faith
Lent is presented ‘in the likeness of a path’, like that to which God called Abraham: “Go forth from the land of your kinsfolk and from your father’s house to a land I will show you.” (Gen 12:1) He set off, without lingering nor any support other than the divine promise.
Lent is a journey for us, too. We are called to face it with determination; to entrust ourselves to the plans God has for us. Even though the journey may be full of trials, St Paul assures us that, like Timothy, each of us is helped by “the strength which comes from God” (2 Tim 1:8).
And the country toward which we are heading is ‘the Christian’s new life’. It is a paschal Life, which can be realized only through the ‘power’ and the ‘grace’ of God: a mysterious power, “the grace held out to us in Christ Jesus before the world began but now made manifest by the appearance of our Savior. He has robbed death of its power and has brought life and immortality into clear light through the gospel.” (2 Tim 1:9-10)
The letter to Timothy also points out that the bread of new life is given to us because of a mysterious calling and assignment on God’s part “not because of any merit of ours but according to His own design” (2 Tim 1:9). So we ought to be men and women of faith, like Abraham; that is, who do not count so much on themselves as on the word, the grace and the power of God.
The Lord Jesus, while living on earth, personally revealed this way to His disciples.
Ref: Cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp113-4
Examination of Conscience
235 A daily task. Book-keeping -- never neglected by anyone in business.
And is there any business worth more than that of eternal life? (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”)
237 Examine yourself: slowly, with courage. Isn’t it true that your bad temper and your sadness -- both without cause, without apparent cause -- are due to your lack of determination in breaking the subtle but real snares laid for you -- cunningly and attractively -- by your concupiscence? (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, )
238 The general examination is a weapon of defense. The particular [examination], of attack. The first is the shield, The second, the sword. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”)
• Institution of the Confraternity of the Immaculate Conception, at Toledo, in the year 1506, by Cardinal Francis Ximenes, archbishop of that city. — See his Life by Gormez, etc. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Institution of the Confraternity of the Immaculate Conception, Toledo, Spain (1506). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Institution of the Confraternity of the Immaculate Conception in 1503. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of the Slap (Italy, 1200) (http://mariedenazareth.com)
• “Notre Dame of Fourviéres” (Lyons, France). Moveable feast -- Saturday after Low Sunday [15 Apr]. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of the Pearls. Palermo, Italy. Moveable feast -- Saturday after Low Sunday [15 Apr]. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of the Valley Catamarca, Argentina. Moveable feast -- Saturday after Low Sunday [15 Apr]. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Friday, April 20, 2012
20 April 2012: Our Lord appears to St Peter
“Peter ran to the tomb; and stooping down, he saw the linen cloths laid there; then went away wondering to himself at what had come to pass.” (Lk 24:12). Fear and hope, joy and sorrow, love and contrition, contended within his heart.
What an example for us! Often we are alone, working or travelling. In such situations, like St Peter, let us occupy ourself with some mystery of faith, or recall our morning prayer, thereby favorably preparing our heart and mind for the reception of divine grace.
“And he was seen by Cephas.” (1 Cor 15:5) St Paul leaves no doubt that St Peter was the first of the apostles favored by the apparition of their Divine Master.
St John, the beloved disciple, had stood beneath the cross and received the last sigh of his Redeemer. However, he was not favored, but Peter, who had publicly denied him.
We may believe that this appearance was accompanied by the most tender and reassuring words to convince the penitent apostle of his Lord’s full forgiveness for the past.
What conclusion should we draw from our Lord’s behavior to St Peter? That God pardons as God -- ie, “entirely”, without “reserve or remembrance of the past”.
He loves and even caresses the sinner, as if he had never offended him. “For the gifts of God are without repentance.” (Rom 11:29)
No doubt our Lord’s motive in thus first appearing to St Peter was, among others, to restore him in the opinion of the rest, and to preserve his authority as the chief of apostles. We see that St Peter’s testimony was at once received by his brethren, when they affirmed, “The Lord is risen indeed and had appeared to Simon” (Lk 24:34).
Thus he fulfilled the mission his Divine Master confided to him, “And you, being once converted, strengthen your brethren” (Lk 22:32). How good is the Lord to all of us.
Let us praise him and conform ourselves to his example. When it is our duty to correct anyone to whom respect is due, let us keep his position in mind.
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp210-212
A Tired and Thirsty God
When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, ‘Give me a drink’. (Jn 4:7) In a short sketch, St John narrates how Jesus, with a truly divine strategy, succeeded in securing her conversion from a sinful life; and transformed her into an apostolic soul.
The wealth of meaning contained in this episode is infinite. Yet, a careful reading can make us admire the lovable personality of the hard-working Redeemer who spared no effort in seeking sinners and leading them to salvation.
We find Jesus passing through Samaria on his way to Galilee. It was high noon; he had already spent six or seven hours walking. Jesus, tired by the journey, sat straight down by the well. (cf Jn 4:6)
The image of Jesus, exhausted by a long journey, identifies him with us. The God-Man’s weariness should help us bear our own.
We can think of our tired Savior when our job forces us to toil extra hours after a day of intense work. We should remind ourselves that like Christ’s our tiredness has something divine in it, provided it is not the exhaustion of a dissipated life, but the price of serving others and performance of duty.
Jesus’ thirst for souls was greater than his fatigue. His physical thirst offered him the occasion to enter into a dialogue with a poor sinful woman. He wanted to win the respect of this woman through a sign of genuine confidence towards her by asking for some cold water, despite the antipathy between Jews and Samaritans.
When we feel Jesus is asking for things we can give him, in reality he wants us to receive greater benefits from him. In exchange for the mouthful of cold water which he asked of the woman, Jesus made torrents of grace gush forth in her, which cleansed her conscience and transformed her temporal thirst into desires for eternity.
Jesus lays down his demands, but he always gives us more than what he asks. Indeed, when the Lord asks us for something, he is actually offering us a great gift.
Ref: Cf Fr M Guzman, "Encounters With Christ", 1990, pp31-3
The little we do, Our Lord increases
Sometimes, Jesus makes us see the problems are too great for us, that we are helpless. He asks us not to focus on the material resources, because they may only cause us to be pessimistic. Instead, we should rely more on the supernatural means ie, to count on him and his power.
Our Lord wants us to avoid thinking the solution lies in human effort alone. He also wants us to avoid passivity, which under the pretext of total abandonment in God’s hands, converts hope into a disguised spiritual laziness. Jesus asks us for faith, obedience, daring and always to do whatever we can; not to omit available human means.
The farmer, as he proceeds to turn over the furrows of his field, or scatter seed, suffers cold, bears the discomfort of rain, looks at the sky ... sees it overcast, nevertheless, continues sowing. The only thing he fears is he may be held by woes of life and time will go by, leaving him with nothing to harvest. Don’t put it off till later; do your sowing now. (cf St Augustine, Commentary on Psalm 125, 5, PL 36, 164) Do this even if probably the field will not yield anything. Don’t wait until we have all the human means or when all difficulties disappear. On the supernatural plane Our Lord blesses our efforts, multiplies them; always brings fruit.
As in the multiplication of the loaves and fishes Jesus makes use of whatever is available. He added the rest. But he did not wish to do without the human means (in reality he desires our cooperation) although they were few. To count on God always is a good sign of humility.
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, "In Conversation with God", 2:367-70
Supernatural Life
280 If you lose the supernatural meaning of your life, your charity will be philanthropy; your purity, decency; your mortification, stupidity; your discipline, a lash; and all your works, fruitless. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”)
Mary, Mother of Vocations
2002 Calendar, Rogationist Fathers
• Our Lady of Scheir, in Bavaria. This church was built on the spot where the castle stood, which those of the house of Scheir voluntarily ceded to Our Lady, except Arnaud, who, in punishment of his obstinacy, was drowned in a neighboring lake. — Herith, de origine gentis et principibus Bavariae. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Scheir. Bavaria, Germany. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Sorrows (Quito, Spain) (http://mariedenazareth.com)
What an example for us! Often we are alone, working or travelling. In such situations, like St Peter, let us occupy ourself with some mystery of faith, or recall our morning prayer, thereby favorably preparing our heart and mind for the reception of divine grace.
“And he was seen by Cephas.” (1 Cor 15:5) St Paul leaves no doubt that St Peter was the first of the apostles favored by the apparition of their Divine Master.
St John, the beloved disciple, had stood beneath the cross and received the last sigh of his Redeemer. However, he was not favored, but Peter, who had publicly denied him.
We may believe that this appearance was accompanied by the most tender and reassuring words to convince the penitent apostle of his Lord’s full forgiveness for the past.
What conclusion should we draw from our Lord’s behavior to St Peter? That God pardons as God -- ie, “entirely”, without “reserve or remembrance of the past”.
He loves and even caresses the sinner, as if he had never offended him. “For the gifts of God are without repentance.” (Rom 11:29)
No doubt our Lord’s motive in thus first appearing to St Peter was, among others, to restore him in the opinion of the rest, and to preserve his authority as the chief of apostles. We see that St Peter’s testimony was at once received by his brethren, when they affirmed, “The Lord is risen indeed and had appeared to Simon” (Lk 24:34).
Thus he fulfilled the mission his Divine Master confided to him, “And you, being once converted, strengthen your brethren” (Lk 22:32). How good is the Lord to all of us.
Let us praise him and conform ourselves to his example. When it is our duty to correct anyone to whom respect is due, let us keep his position in mind.
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp210-212
A Tired and Thirsty God
When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, ‘Give me a drink’. (Jn 4:7) In a short sketch, St John narrates how Jesus, with a truly divine strategy, succeeded in securing her conversion from a sinful life; and transformed her into an apostolic soul.
The wealth of meaning contained in this episode is infinite. Yet, a careful reading can make us admire the lovable personality of the hard-working Redeemer who spared no effort in seeking sinners and leading them to salvation.
We find Jesus passing through Samaria on his way to Galilee. It was high noon; he had already spent six or seven hours walking. Jesus, tired by the journey, sat straight down by the well. (cf Jn 4:6)
The image of Jesus, exhausted by a long journey, identifies him with us. The God-Man’s weariness should help us bear our own.
We can think of our tired Savior when our job forces us to toil extra hours after a day of intense work. We should remind ourselves that like Christ’s our tiredness has something divine in it, provided it is not the exhaustion of a dissipated life, but the price of serving others and performance of duty.
Jesus’ thirst for souls was greater than his fatigue. His physical thirst offered him the occasion to enter into a dialogue with a poor sinful woman. He wanted to win the respect of this woman through a sign of genuine confidence towards her by asking for some cold water, despite the antipathy between Jews and Samaritans.
When we feel Jesus is asking for things we can give him, in reality he wants us to receive greater benefits from him. In exchange for the mouthful of cold water which he asked of the woman, Jesus made torrents of grace gush forth in her, which cleansed her conscience and transformed her temporal thirst into desires for eternity.
Jesus lays down his demands, but he always gives us more than what he asks. Indeed, when the Lord asks us for something, he is actually offering us a great gift.
Ref: Cf Fr M Guzman, "Encounters With Christ", 1990, pp31-3
The little we do, Our Lord increases
Sometimes, Jesus makes us see the problems are too great for us, that we are helpless. He asks us not to focus on the material resources, because they may only cause us to be pessimistic. Instead, we should rely more on the supernatural means ie, to count on him and his power.
Our Lord wants us to avoid thinking the solution lies in human effort alone. He also wants us to avoid passivity, which under the pretext of total abandonment in God’s hands, converts hope into a disguised spiritual laziness. Jesus asks us for faith, obedience, daring and always to do whatever we can; not to omit available human means.
The farmer, as he proceeds to turn over the furrows of his field, or scatter seed, suffers cold, bears the discomfort of rain, looks at the sky ... sees it overcast, nevertheless, continues sowing. The only thing he fears is he may be held by woes of life and time will go by, leaving him with nothing to harvest. Don’t put it off till later; do your sowing now. (cf St Augustine, Commentary on Psalm 125, 5, PL 36, 164) Do this even if probably the field will not yield anything. Don’t wait until we have all the human means or when all difficulties disappear. On the supernatural plane Our Lord blesses our efforts, multiplies them; always brings fruit.
As in the multiplication of the loaves and fishes Jesus makes use of whatever is available. He added the rest. But he did not wish to do without the human means (in reality he desires our cooperation) although they were few. To count on God always is a good sign of humility.
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, "In Conversation with God", 2:367-70
Supernatural Life
280 If you lose the supernatural meaning of your life, your charity will be philanthropy; your purity, decency; your mortification, stupidity; your discipline, a lash; and all your works, fruitless. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”)
Mary, Mother of Vocations
2002 Calendar, Rogationist Fathers
• Our Lady of Scheir, in Bavaria. This church was built on the spot where the castle stood, which those of the house of Scheir voluntarily ceded to Our Lady, except Arnaud, who, in punishment of his obstinacy, was drowned in a neighboring lake. — Herith, de origine gentis et principibus Bavariae. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Scheir. Bavaria, Germany. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Sorrows (Quito, Spain) (http://mariedenazareth.com)
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
19 April 2012: St Peter and St John go to the sepulchre
The apostles reacted differently to the news of the holy women. St Peter and St John half-believed and half-doubted.
“Peter, therefore, went out and that other disciple, and they came to the tomb.” (Jn 20:3) The impulse of reason and conscience prevailed over the words and actions of the others.
How happy should we be if our conduct had been always like theirs, making God, our conscience, and the norms of our vocation the rule of our lives! But, have we often adopted a course of action either from cowardice or human respect and finding excuses in our tepidity?
They both ran together, so eager to reach the tomb, and to discover what had become of their beloved Master. Their love made them run on their way.
Do we fulfill the duties that God and obedience enjoin us with the same promptness and energy? If our conscience bears witness in our favor, it is a proof of fervor.
Rejoice! Otherwise, we have reason to fear, particularly if age or infirmities warn us that our days are numbered; and endeavor to avoid deathbed regrets.
St John, younger and swifter, reached the tomb first. He tells us “he went not in”, out of respect for St Peter, to whom our Lord had given primacy and jurisdiction. To their great surprise, all they found were “the linen cloth and the napkin that had been about his head” (Jn 20:7).
St Peter had sinned grievously by his three-fold denial of Jesus. Still, St John showed honor and respected him as his superior.
This should teach us to overlook the errors and imperfections of directors; but to consider them as representatives of God bearing in mind our Lord’s words, “he that hears you, hears me; and he that despises you, despises me” (Lk 10:16). Do my thoughts, words, and deeds conform to this doctrine?
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp208-10
Firmness in faith
Despite a severe prohibition from the High Priest and Sanhedrin not to teach at all in the name of Jesus (cf Acts 4:18), the Apostles preached every day more freely and with more determination the doctrine of the faith. And there were many who were converted and baptized.
The Apostles’ disobeying the commands of the Sanhedrin was not a matter of pride or lack of knowledge of social duties towards lawful authority. They resisted them because the council wished to impose on them a command which was against the law of God. They reminded their judges, courageously and simply, that obedience to God comes first.
They were fully convinced that for those who fear God there is no danger but only for those who don’t fear Him (St John Chrysostom, 'Homilies on the Acts of the Apostles', 13); and that it is worse to commit an injustice than to suffer it. The Apostles showed their firmness of faith, how deeply they had absorbed the Master’s teaching after having received the Holy Spirit, and their great regard to God’s honour. (cf 'The Navarre Bible, Acts of the Apostles')
The fortitude and conviction of the first Christians is what Our Lord is also asking from us, when, in certain societies, there is a climate of indifference or even direct attack, often veiled, on true human and Christian values. A well-formed conscience will lead a Christian to be as law-abiding, as he is ready to take a stand on what is against the natural law.
The State is not omnipotent; it is not the source of good and of evil. It is an obligation for Catholics who are present in political institutions to exercise a critical role within their respective institutions so that their programmes and activities correspond every day more to the aspirations and criteria of Christian morality. ... (Spanish Episcopal Conference, 'Witnesses to the living God', 28 June 1985)
The effective protection of basic individual rights, the right to life from the very first moment of conception, the protection of marriage and family, equal opportunities in school and work, freedom of education, speech and religion, personal security, contribution to world peace, all form part of the common good which Christians should defend. (Ibid, 'Catholics in public life', 22 April 1986)
Passivity in such important affairs would really be a lamentable error and omission of the duty to contribute to the common good. They would form part of the sins of omission for which, as well as those of thought, word and deed, we ask Our Lord for pardon at the start of the Mass.
... You as a Christian and perhaps as a research worker, writer, scientist, politician, or labourer, have the duty to sanctify those things. Remember that the whole universe -- as the Apostle says -- is groaning as in the pangs of labour, awaiting the liberation of the children of God. (St Josemaria Escrivá, 'Furrow', 311)
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, 'In Conversation with God', 2:3
The Laity Profess Their Faith
You are the salt of the earth! ... the light of the world. “The Christian vocation is by its very nature a vocation to the apostolate.”
Here is the root of the kernel of announcement and testimony of the Christian faith. Hence, the first attitude assumed by the testifier to the faith is that of professing this same faith which he practices, becoming gently converted by the Spirit of God and conforming one’s life to this Divine Wisdom. ...
We are not proprietors who can do what we like; but are responsible for a gift which must be faithfully transmitted. Only Christ! Let us proclaim him, in thanksgiving and wonder.
In him is already the fullness of what God has prepared for those who love him (1 Cor 2:9). This is the announcement the Church entrusts to all who are called to proclaim, celebrate, communicate and live the infinite Love of the Divine Wisdom.
Ref: Cf 'Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II', pp311-2
Our Lady -- O Mother, Mother! With that word of yours, “Fiat: Be it done” -- you have made us brothers of God and heirs to his glory. Blessed are you! (Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 512)
Scruples -- Don’t think any more about your fall. Besides overwhelmng and crushing you under its weight, that recollection may easily be an occasion of future temptation. Christ has forgiven you! Forget the “old man” -- your former self. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 261)
Joy -- “The cheerfulness you should have is not the kind we might call physiological -- like that of a healthy animal. Rather, it is the supernatural happiness that comes from the abandonment of everything, including yourself, into the loving arms of our Father God.” (Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 659)
• Confirmation of the Feast of the Conception of Our Lady, by the Council of Trent, in the year 1545. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Confirmation of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Council of Trent 1545). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Council of Trent confirms the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. 1545. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of Lyons, France (1643). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html); (http://mariedenazareth.com)
• “Notre Dame de Lyons”. France. 1643. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
“Peter, therefore, went out and that other disciple, and they came to the tomb.” (Jn 20:3) The impulse of reason and conscience prevailed over the words and actions of the others.
How happy should we be if our conduct had been always like theirs, making God, our conscience, and the norms of our vocation the rule of our lives! But, have we often adopted a course of action either from cowardice or human respect and finding excuses in our tepidity?
They both ran together, so eager to reach the tomb, and to discover what had become of their beloved Master. Their love made them run on their way.
Do we fulfill the duties that God and obedience enjoin us with the same promptness and energy? If our conscience bears witness in our favor, it is a proof of fervor.
Rejoice! Otherwise, we have reason to fear, particularly if age or infirmities warn us that our days are numbered; and endeavor to avoid deathbed regrets.
St John, younger and swifter, reached the tomb first. He tells us “he went not in”, out of respect for St Peter, to whom our Lord had given primacy and jurisdiction. To their great surprise, all they found were “the linen cloth and the napkin that had been about his head” (Jn 20:7).
St Peter had sinned grievously by his three-fold denial of Jesus. Still, St John showed honor and respected him as his superior.
This should teach us to overlook the errors and imperfections of directors; but to consider them as representatives of God bearing in mind our Lord’s words, “he that hears you, hears me; and he that despises you, despises me” (Lk 10:16). Do my thoughts, words, and deeds conform to this doctrine?
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp208-10
Firmness in faith
Despite a severe prohibition from the High Priest and Sanhedrin not to teach at all in the name of Jesus (cf Acts 4:18), the Apostles preached every day more freely and with more determination the doctrine of the faith. And there were many who were converted and baptized.
The Apostles’ disobeying the commands of the Sanhedrin was not a matter of pride or lack of knowledge of social duties towards lawful authority. They resisted them because the council wished to impose on them a command which was against the law of God. They reminded their judges, courageously and simply, that obedience to God comes first.
They were fully convinced that for those who fear God there is no danger but only for those who don’t fear Him (St John Chrysostom, 'Homilies on the Acts of the Apostles', 13); and that it is worse to commit an injustice than to suffer it. The Apostles showed their firmness of faith, how deeply they had absorbed the Master’s teaching after having received the Holy Spirit, and their great regard to God’s honour. (cf 'The Navarre Bible, Acts of the Apostles')
The fortitude and conviction of the first Christians is what Our Lord is also asking from us, when, in certain societies, there is a climate of indifference or even direct attack, often veiled, on true human and Christian values. A well-formed conscience will lead a Christian to be as law-abiding, as he is ready to take a stand on what is against the natural law.
The State is not omnipotent; it is not the source of good and of evil. It is an obligation for Catholics who are present in political institutions to exercise a critical role within their respective institutions so that their programmes and activities correspond every day more to the aspirations and criteria of Christian morality. ... (Spanish Episcopal Conference, 'Witnesses to the living God', 28 June 1985)
The effective protection of basic individual rights, the right to life from the very first moment of conception, the protection of marriage and family, equal opportunities in school and work, freedom of education, speech and religion, personal security, contribution to world peace, all form part of the common good which Christians should defend. (Ibid, 'Catholics in public life', 22 April 1986)
Passivity in such important affairs would really be a lamentable error and omission of the duty to contribute to the common good. They would form part of the sins of omission for which, as well as those of thought, word and deed, we ask Our Lord for pardon at the start of the Mass.
... You as a Christian and perhaps as a research worker, writer, scientist, politician, or labourer, have the duty to sanctify those things. Remember that the whole universe -- as the Apostle says -- is groaning as in the pangs of labour, awaiting the liberation of the children of God. (St Josemaria Escrivá, 'Furrow', 311)
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, 'In Conversation with God', 2:3
The Laity Profess Their Faith
You are the salt of the earth! ... the light of the world. “The Christian vocation is by its very nature a vocation to the apostolate.”
Here is the root of the kernel of announcement and testimony of the Christian faith. Hence, the first attitude assumed by the testifier to the faith is that of professing this same faith which he practices, becoming gently converted by the Spirit of God and conforming one’s life to this Divine Wisdom. ...
We are not proprietors who can do what we like; but are responsible for a gift which must be faithfully transmitted. Only Christ! Let us proclaim him, in thanksgiving and wonder.
In him is already the fullness of what God has prepared for those who love him (1 Cor 2:9). This is the announcement the Church entrusts to all who are called to proclaim, celebrate, communicate and live the infinite Love of the Divine Wisdom.
Ref: Cf 'Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II', pp311-2
Our Lady -- O Mother, Mother! With that word of yours, “Fiat: Be it done” -- you have made us brothers of God and heirs to his glory. Blessed are you! (Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 512)
Scruples -- Don’t think any more about your fall. Besides overwhelmng and crushing you under its weight, that recollection may easily be an occasion of future temptation. Christ has forgiven you! Forget the “old man” -- your former self. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 261)
Joy -- “The cheerfulness you should have is not the kind we might call physiological -- like that of a healthy animal. Rather, it is the supernatural happiness that comes from the abandonment of everything, including yourself, into the loving arms of our Father God.” (Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 659)
• Confirmation of the Feast of the Conception of Our Lady, by the Council of Trent, in the year 1545. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Confirmation of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Council of Trent 1545). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Council of Trent confirms the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. 1545. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of Lyons, France (1643). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html); (http://mariedenazareth.com)
• “Notre Dame de Lyons”. France. 1643. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
18 April 2012: Jesus appears to the two other Mary’s
The angel had commanded the holy women to announce the Resurrection to the disciples. Not all three were obliged to return to the city. Mary Magdalene remained by the sepulchre.
The two other Mary’s hastened towards Jerusalem where the disciples were hiding. They quickly left the sepulchre with fear and great joy, running to tell his disciples.
These holy women reacted differently to the angel’s announcement. We acquire merit and reward not from any action by itself; but from the motive and intention.
Suppose, we make a visit to the Blessed Sacrament. A companion performs instead an act of charity. Our merit and reward will be the same if love of God was the common motive.
The prompt obedience of the two Mary’s was extraordinarily rewarded. As they hastened on their way, behold, Jesus met them, saying “‘All hail!’ But they came up and took hold of his feet, and adored him.
Then Jesus said to them, ‘Fear not. Go, tell my brethren that they go to Galilee; there they shall see me’.” (Mt 9:10)
Admire our Lord’s goodness to his loving and obedient servants, the tender sweetness of his words, ‘All hail’, ‘Fear not’; and ‘Tell my brethren’. He calls them such though they had abandoned and even denied him; thus showing his forgiveness and forgetfulness of their past guilt towards him.
The disciples, when they heard the news brought by the holy women, treated them as “idle tales; they believed them not” (Lk 24:11). Yet our Lord had clearly predicted his death and resurrection on the third day.
Were the disciples, then, obstinate unbelievers? No; but their faith was in pieces. They doubted practically rather than systematically.
We believe God sees us always. Yet many things we do displease him greatly! We know the words, “As long as you did it to one of these my least brethren, you did it to me” (Mt 25:40).
We are practical, not systematic unbelievers, as the disciples were. Where will this lead us?
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp206-8
Jesus Shows Us the Way to Heaven
Through his redemptive work, Jesus has prepared places for us in his Father’s house. Christ’s words are meant also for all those who would believe in him throughout the centuries. The Lord will bring with him to glory those who have believed and have been faithful to him until the end.
How consoling it is for us to hear Jesus speak about God’s rewards! He encourages souls to be generous, even to the point of total renunciation, telling them: You will have treasure in heaven. (cf Mt 19:21)
Even though he reproves selfish ulterior motives in good works such as praying, fasting, and almsgiving, he nevertheless says: Your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you. (cf Mt 6:3)
St Augustine tells us: Since your reward will be God himself, you ought to love him in such a way that you do not cease to desire him as the only reward that can satisfy you.
St Josemaria Escrivá wrote in 'The Way' (139): Do everything unselfishly, for pure love, as if there were neither reward nor punishment. But in your heart foster the glorious hope of heaven. (668) It’s good that you serve God as a son, without payment -- generously. But don’t worry if at times you think of the reward. (669) At the time of temptation think of the love that awaits you in heaven: foster the virtue of hope -- it’s not a lack of generosity.
Ref: Cf Fr M Guzman, Encounters With Christ, 1990, pp151-2
Fulfilling our duties
The will of God for us is found principally in the faithful fulfilment of the commandments and the other teachings proposed to us by the Church. We find there what God wishes for us. And in their fulfilment, done with human nobility and with awareness of the constant presence of God, we find God’s love and holiness.
Love for God does not consist in sensible feelings, although Our Lord may give these too so as to help us to be more generous. It is essentially the full identification of our will with that of God.
Love is repaid with love, but it must be genuine love, which is seen in specific ways in fulfilment of our duties towards God and towards others.
Our feelings may not incline us to do this and it may be an uphill struggle. The highest perfection consists not in interior favours or in great raptures, but in the bringing of our wills so closely into conformity with the Will of God that, as soon as we realize that he wills anything, we desire it ourselves with all our might. (St Theresa, 'Book of the Foundations', 5, 10)
True love includes all aspects of our existence, in a true unity of life. It leads us to insert God in everything, which otherwise would be insipid without him. A pious person whose piety is not superficial strives to fulfil his duty: sincere devotion leads to work, to the willing fulfilment of the duties of each day -- even when this is hard; ...
Professional work, human relationships of friendship and companionship, striving -- shoulder to shoulder with our fellow citizens -- to achieve the well-being and progress of society, are the natural fruits, a logical consequence, of this sap of Christ which is the life of our soul. (St Josemaria Escrivá, 'In Memoriam', EUNSA, Pamplona)
As soon as you truly abandon yourself in the Lord, you will know how to be content with whatever happens. You will not lose your peace if your undertakings do not turn out the way you hoped, even if you have put everything into them, used all the means necessary. For they will have turned out the way God wants them to. (St Josemaria Escrivá, 'Furrow', 860)
Let us say to Our Lord: "I want whatever you want, I want because you want, I want as you want, I want as long as you want." ("Roman Missal", 'Prayer of Pope Clement XI') Our Lady who pronounced "be it done unto me according to thy word" (Lk 1:38) and put it into practice, will help us fulfil God’s Will in everything.
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, "In Conversation with God", 2:358-60
Our Lady
“When you see yourself with a dry heart, without knowing what to say, go with confidence to the Virgin Mary. Say to her, ‘My Mother Immaculate, intercede for me’.
“If you invoke her with faith, she will make you taste in the midst of your dryness the proximity of God.”
Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “Furrow”, 695)
• Grant of plenary indulgences, by Urban VI, to whoever visit the Church of Our Lady of Loretto. — Balingham on the Calendar. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Grant of Plenary Indulgences to whoever visit the Church of Our Lady of Loretto (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Pope Urban VI grants plenary indulgence to those who visit the Church of Our Lady of Loretto (l4th Century). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Good Health (Italy, 1428) (http://mariedenazareth.com)
The two other Mary’s hastened towards Jerusalem where the disciples were hiding. They quickly left the sepulchre with fear and great joy, running to tell his disciples.
These holy women reacted differently to the angel’s announcement. We acquire merit and reward not from any action by itself; but from the motive and intention.
Suppose, we make a visit to the Blessed Sacrament. A companion performs instead an act of charity. Our merit and reward will be the same if love of God was the common motive.
The prompt obedience of the two Mary’s was extraordinarily rewarded. As they hastened on their way, behold, Jesus met them, saying “‘All hail!’ But they came up and took hold of his feet, and adored him.
Then Jesus said to them, ‘Fear not. Go, tell my brethren that they go to Galilee; there they shall see me’.” (Mt 9:10)
Admire our Lord’s goodness to his loving and obedient servants, the tender sweetness of his words, ‘All hail’, ‘Fear not’; and ‘Tell my brethren’. He calls them such though they had abandoned and even denied him; thus showing his forgiveness and forgetfulness of their past guilt towards him.
The disciples, when they heard the news brought by the holy women, treated them as “idle tales; they believed them not” (Lk 24:11). Yet our Lord had clearly predicted his death and resurrection on the third day.
Were the disciples, then, obstinate unbelievers? No; but their faith was in pieces. They doubted practically rather than systematically.
We believe God sees us always. Yet many things we do displease him greatly! We know the words, “As long as you did it to one of these my least brethren, you did it to me” (Mt 25:40).
We are practical, not systematic unbelievers, as the disciples were. Where will this lead us?
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp206-8
Jesus Shows Us the Way to Heaven
Through his redemptive work, Jesus has prepared places for us in his Father’s house. Christ’s words are meant also for all those who would believe in him throughout the centuries. The Lord will bring with him to glory those who have believed and have been faithful to him until the end.
How consoling it is for us to hear Jesus speak about God’s rewards! He encourages souls to be generous, even to the point of total renunciation, telling them: You will have treasure in heaven. (cf Mt 19:21)
Even though he reproves selfish ulterior motives in good works such as praying, fasting, and almsgiving, he nevertheless says: Your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you. (cf Mt 6:3)
St Augustine tells us: Since your reward will be God himself, you ought to love him in such a way that you do not cease to desire him as the only reward that can satisfy you.
St Josemaria Escrivá wrote in 'The Way' (139): Do everything unselfishly, for pure love, as if there were neither reward nor punishment. But in your heart foster the glorious hope of heaven. (668) It’s good that you serve God as a son, without payment -- generously. But don’t worry if at times you think of the reward. (669) At the time of temptation think of the love that awaits you in heaven: foster the virtue of hope -- it’s not a lack of generosity.
Ref: Cf Fr M Guzman, Encounters With Christ, 1990, pp151-2
Fulfilling our duties
The will of God for us is found principally in the faithful fulfilment of the commandments and the other teachings proposed to us by the Church. We find there what God wishes for us. And in their fulfilment, done with human nobility and with awareness of the constant presence of God, we find God’s love and holiness.
Love for God does not consist in sensible feelings, although Our Lord may give these too so as to help us to be more generous. It is essentially the full identification of our will with that of God.
Love is repaid with love, but it must be genuine love, which is seen in specific ways in fulfilment of our duties towards God and towards others.
Our feelings may not incline us to do this and it may be an uphill struggle. The highest perfection consists not in interior favours or in great raptures, but in the bringing of our wills so closely into conformity with the Will of God that, as soon as we realize that he wills anything, we desire it ourselves with all our might. (St Theresa, 'Book of the Foundations', 5, 10)
True love includes all aspects of our existence, in a true unity of life. It leads us to insert God in everything, which otherwise would be insipid without him. A pious person whose piety is not superficial strives to fulfil his duty: sincere devotion leads to work, to the willing fulfilment of the duties of each day -- even when this is hard; ...
Professional work, human relationships of friendship and companionship, striving -- shoulder to shoulder with our fellow citizens -- to achieve the well-being and progress of society, are the natural fruits, a logical consequence, of this sap of Christ which is the life of our soul. (St Josemaria Escrivá, 'In Memoriam', EUNSA, Pamplona)
As soon as you truly abandon yourself in the Lord, you will know how to be content with whatever happens. You will not lose your peace if your undertakings do not turn out the way you hoped, even if you have put everything into them, used all the means necessary. For they will have turned out the way God wants them to. (St Josemaria Escrivá, 'Furrow', 860)
Let us say to Our Lord: "I want whatever you want, I want because you want, I want as you want, I want as long as you want." ("Roman Missal", 'Prayer of Pope Clement XI') Our Lady who pronounced "be it done unto me according to thy word" (Lk 1:38) and put it into practice, will help us fulfil God’s Will in everything.
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, "In Conversation with God", 2:358-60
Our Lady
“When you see yourself with a dry heart, without knowing what to say, go with confidence to the Virgin Mary. Say to her, ‘My Mother Immaculate, intercede for me’.
“If you invoke her with faith, she will make you taste in the midst of your dryness the proximity of God.”
Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “Furrow”, 695)
• Grant of plenary indulgences, by Urban VI, to whoever visit the Church of Our Lady of Loretto. — Balingham on the Calendar. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Grant of Plenary Indulgences to whoever visit the Church of Our Lady of Loretto (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Pope Urban VI grants plenary indulgence to those who visit the Church of Our Lady of Loretto (l4th Century). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Good Health (Italy, 1428) (http://mariedenazareth.com)
Monday, April 16, 2012
17 April 2012: Jesus appears to St Mary Magdalene
The two other Mary's left to announce the joyful news of the Resurrection, but Mary Magdalene stands “weeping outside the sepulchre” (Jn 20:11). Love for the Beloved of her soul, made her stay and caused those tears.
St Mary Magdalene offers us an example of a perfect contemplative. How close are we in being like her?
Despite all our advantages how come we are far from being one? “Because there are few who know how to remove themselves entirely from perishable creatures.” (Thomas à Kempis, “Imitation of Christ”)
St Mary Magdalene, lost in contemplation, remained with her eyes fixed upon the sepulchre. She saw “two angels in white sitting, one at the head, and one at the feet, where the Body of Jesus had been laid. They say to her, ‘Woman, why do you weep?’ She told them, ‘Because they took away my Lord; I know not where they have laid him’.” (Jn 20:13)
The only cause of St Mary Magdalene’s deep affliction was loss of the sensible presence of Jesus. How happy should we be if this were the only, or at least the primary, cause of our sorrows. The loss which once made us rejoice in our vocation; and find peace and consolation in the practice of virtue amidst privations and difficulties!
Jesus had been present invisibly while his faithful servant gave proofs of her love and sorrow. Pleased, he desired to reward her. “... she turned around and saw Jesus standing, she thought he is the gardener ... She said to him, ‘Sir, if you have taken him, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away’. Jesus said, ‘Mary!’” (Jn 20:14-6)
At that word she recognized her Lord, and threw herself at his feet. What consoling lessons! He appeared to whom? A penitent sinner!
How did she merit such great favor? The generosity of her love, her share in the Passion, ardent desire of seeing Jesus, and perseverance in seeking him.
Let us also desire to see Jesus glorified in heaven. Tell him often our love and prove it by our generosity in his service. Whatever may have been our past infidelity, we may be certain of a large share in his favors.
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp204-6
Giving good example
This apostolate of giving doctrine makes us return many times to the same ideas. We must endeavour to present Our Lord’s teaching in an attractive manner.
The crowds today also wander “like sheep without a shepherd” (Mk 6:34), without a guide; don’t know in which direction to go, confused by so many short-lived ideologies.
No Christian should remain passive nor feel inhibited in this great task of doing apostolate. We must not make excuses. (‘I’m no good. I can’t. No time.’)
Apostolate is the Christian vocation, and God gives us the grace to correspond. Are we really a ray of light amidst so much darkness? Or are we bound by laziness or human respect?
We will be more apostolic if we sincerely consider, in the presence of God, that the people whose paths we have crossed had a right to expect from us the help to get to know Jesus better. How have we fulfilled this Christian duty?
Let us hope they will not reproach us, in this life or the next, for having deprived them of that help in words such as -- “... I don’t have anyone to plunge me into the pool ...” (Jn 5:7); I had no one to give me a little light in so much darkness.
“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword” (Heb 4:12); reaching the very depths of the soul, to the source of men’s life and behaviour.
A great ignorance about Our Lord persists after 20 centuries, even among many Christians! The Second Vatican Council teaches that Revelation came about with deeds and words intrinsically blended. (“Dei Verbum”)
The works of Jesus are those of God done in his name; simple people saying, “We have seen strange things” (Lk 5:26).
“The man who has the mission of saying great things (all Christians have this sweet obligation) is equally obliged to practise them.” (cf St Gregory the Great, “Pastoral Care”, 2, 3)
Our relatives, colleagues, and friends, must find us loyal, sincere, cheerful, optimistic, good at our job, resilient, pleasant, courageous. Simply and naturally, we must make known our faith in Christ.
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:199-200
The Truth, Source of True Liberty
This marvelous task of liberty is accomplished according to Christ’s program and His Kingdom on the terrain of truth. Being free means achieving the fruits of liberty, acting in the truth.
Also knowing how to yield, how to submit to the truth; not to subject truth to oneself, to one’s fancies and will, to one’s interests at the moment.
Being free is not passive enjoyment, but the labor of liberty. At the price of such effort, man does not ‘waste’; but ‘gathers’ and ‘accumulates’ with Christ.
Man also obtains that unity in himself which is proper to the Kingdom of God. At the same price, too, families, social groups, societies, achieve similar unity: of truth with liberty; and of liberty with truth.
My dear friends! This unity is your particular task, unless you wish to want to surrender to the unity of that other program, that which seeks to accomplish itself in the world, in mankind, in our generation and in each of us, the program of whom Holy Scripture calls the father of lies (cf Jn 8:44).
Do not permit destruction of this interior unity, which, through the Holy Spirit, Christ constructs in the conscience of every one of you. Unity, where liberty grows out of truth; and truth is the measure of liberty.
Learn to think, speak and act according to principles of evangelical simplicity and clarity: Yes, yes; no, no. Learn to call white white, black black -- bad bad, good good.
Ref: Cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, 1984, p120
Our Lady
493 Love our Lady. And she will obtain abundant grace to help you conquer in your daily struggle. And the enemy will gain nothing by those perversities that seem to boil up continually within you, trying to engulf in their fragrant corruption the high ideals, those sublime commands that Christ himself has placed in your heart. ‘Serviam!’ -- “I will serve!”
504 The holy Virgin Mary, Mother of fair love, will bring relief to your heart, when it feels as if it’s made of flesh, if you have recourse to her with confidence.
Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, 'The Way'
• Our Lady of Arabida, in Portugal, where an image is seen which an English merchant used to carry about him. Finding himself one day in danger of shipwreck, he saw this image surrounded with a great light on top of the rock of Arabida, which induced him to build a little hermitage there, in which he spent the remainder of his days. — Triple Couronne, n. 16. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Arabida, Portugal (16th Century). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html); (http://mariedenazareth.com)
• Our Lady of Arabida (Portugal). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• “Nossa Senhora” / Our Lady of Arabida. Portugal. 16th Century. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of the Tears. (www.starharbor.com/santiago/m feasts.html)
• The Seven Dolors of Our Lady (traditional). Moveable feast -- Passion Sunday. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
St Mary Magdalene offers us an example of a perfect contemplative. How close are we in being like her?
Despite all our advantages how come we are far from being one? “Because there are few who know how to remove themselves entirely from perishable creatures.” (Thomas à Kempis, “Imitation of Christ”)
St Mary Magdalene, lost in contemplation, remained with her eyes fixed upon the sepulchre. She saw “two angels in white sitting, one at the head, and one at the feet, where the Body of Jesus had been laid. They say to her, ‘Woman, why do you weep?’ She told them, ‘Because they took away my Lord; I know not where they have laid him’.” (Jn 20:13)
The only cause of St Mary Magdalene’s deep affliction was loss of the sensible presence of Jesus. How happy should we be if this were the only, or at least the primary, cause of our sorrows. The loss which once made us rejoice in our vocation; and find peace and consolation in the practice of virtue amidst privations and difficulties!
Jesus had been present invisibly while his faithful servant gave proofs of her love and sorrow. Pleased, he desired to reward her. “... she turned around and saw Jesus standing, she thought he is the gardener ... She said to him, ‘Sir, if you have taken him, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away’. Jesus said, ‘Mary!’” (Jn 20:14-6)
At that word she recognized her Lord, and threw herself at his feet. What consoling lessons! He appeared to whom? A penitent sinner!
How did she merit such great favor? The generosity of her love, her share in the Passion, ardent desire of seeing Jesus, and perseverance in seeking him.
Let us also desire to see Jesus glorified in heaven. Tell him often our love and prove it by our generosity in his service. Whatever may have been our past infidelity, we may be certain of a large share in his favors.
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp204-6
Giving good example
This apostolate of giving doctrine makes us return many times to the same ideas. We must endeavour to present Our Lord’s teaching in an attractive manner.
The crowds today also wander “like sheep without a shepherd” (Mk 6:34), without a guide; don’t know in which direction to go, confused by so many short-lived ideologies.
No Christian should remain passive nor feel inhibited in this great task of doing apostolate. We must not make excuses. (‘I’m no good. I can’t. No time.’)
Apostolate is the Christian vocation, and God gives us the grace to correspond. Are we really a ray of light amidst so much darkness? Or are we bound by laziness or human respect?
We will be more apostolic if we sincerely consider, in the presence of God, that the people whose paths we have crossed had a right to expect from us the help to get to know Jesus better. How have we fulfilled this Christian duty?
Let us hope they will not reproach us, in this life or the next, for having deprived them of that help in words such as -- “... I don’t have anyone to plunge me into the pool ...” (Jn 5:7); I had no one to give me a little light in so much darkness.
“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword” (Heb 4:12); reaching the very depths of the soul, to the source of men’s life and behaviour.
A great ignorance about Our Lord persists after 20 centuries, even among many Christians! The Second Vatican Council teaches that Revelation came about with deeds and words intrinsically blended. (“Dei Verbum”)
The works of Jesus are those of God done in his name; simple people saying, “We have seen strange things” (Lk 5:26).
“The man who has the mission of saying great things (all Christians have this sweet obligation) is equally obliged to practise them.” (cf St Gregory the Great, “Pastoral Care”, 2, 3)
Our relatives, colleagues, and friends, must find us loyal, sincere, cheerful, optimistic, good at our job, resilient, pleasant, courageous. Simply and naturally, we must make known our faith in Christ.
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:199-200
The Truth, Source of True Liberty
This marvelous task of liberty is accomplished according to Christ’s program and His Kingdom on the terrain of truth. Being free means achieving the fruits of liberty, acting in the truth.
Also knowing how to yield, how to submit to the truth; not to subject truth to oneself, to one’s fancies and will, to one’s interests at the moment.
Being free is not passive enjoyment, but the labor of liberty. At the price of such effort, man does not ‘waste’; but ‘gathers’ and ‘accumulates’ with Christ.
Man also obtains that unity in himself which is proper to the Kingdom of God. At the same price, too, families, social groups, societies, achieve similar unity: of truth with liberty; and of liberty with truth.
My dear friends! This unity is your particular task, unless you wish to want to surrender to the unity of that other program, that which seeks to accomplish itself in the world, in mankind, in our generation and in each of us, the program of whom Holy Scripture calls the father of lies (cf Jn 8:44).
Do not permit destruction of this interior unity, which, through the Holy Spirit, Christ constructs in the conscience of every one of you. Unity, where liberty grows out of truth; and truth is the measure of liberty.
Learn to think, speak and act according to principles of evangelical simplicity and clarity: Yes, yes; no, no. Learn to call white white, black black -- bad bad, good good.
Ref: Cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, 1984, p120
Our Lady
493 Love our Lady. And she will obtain abundant grace to help you conquer in your daily struggle. And the enemy will gain nothing by those perversities that seem to boil up continually within you, trying to engulf in their fragrant corruption the high ideals, those sublime commands that Christ himself has placed in your heart. ‘Serviam!’ -- “I will serve!”
504 The holy Virgin Mary, Mother of fair love, will bring relief to your heart, when it feels as if it’s made of flesh, if you have recourse to her with confidence.
Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, 'The Way'
• Our Lady of Arabida, in Portugal, where an image is seen which an English merchant used to carry about him. Finding himself one day in danger of shipwreck, he saw this image surrounded with a great light on top of the rock of Arabida, which induced him to build a little hermitage there, in which he spent the remainder of his days. — Triple Couronne, n. 16. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Arabida, Portugal (16th Century). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html); (http://mariedenazareth.com)
• Our Lady of Arabida (Portugal). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• “Nossa Senhora” / Our Lady of Arabida. Portugal. 16th Century. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of the Tears. (www.starharbor.com/santiago/m feasts.html)
• The Seven Dolors of Our Lady (traditional). Moveable feast -- Passion Sunday. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
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