6th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Jesus Is the Law

15, 2026, marks the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A in the liturgical cycle). The readings invite us to reflect deeply on free will, the wisdom of God, the call to surpass superficial righteousness, and the transformative power of living according to divine law—not out of fear, but out of love.

 The Readings

- First Reading: Sirach 15:15-20  

  "If you choose you can keep the commandments, they will save you; if you trust in God, you too shall live... Before everyone are life and death, whichever they choose will be given them." This passage from Sirach powerfully affirms human freedom. God sets before us fire and water, good and evil, life and death. We are not puppets; we have genuine choice. Yet this freedom comes with responsibility—our decisions have eternal consequences.

- Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119:1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34  

  "Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!" This long psalm celebrates God's law (Torah) as a path to blessing, guidance, and life. It is not a burden but a gift that enlightens the eyes and directs our steps.

- Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:6-10  

  Paul speaks of a hidden wisdom revealed by the Spirit: "What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard... God has revealed to us through the Spirit." This wisdom is not of this world but from God, who searches the depths and shares divine mysteries with those who love Him.

- Gospel: Matthew 5:17-37 (or the shorter form 5:20-22, 27-28, 33-34a, 37)  

  Jesus declares, "I have come not to abolish but to fulfill" the Law and the Prophets. He then deepens the commandments: anger is akin to murder, lust to adultery, oaths to dishonesty. Righteousness must exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees—it must reach the heart, not just external actions.

 Reflection

These readings converge on a single, profound truth: God's law is not an external imposition but an invitation to authentic freedom and interior transformation.

Sirach reminds us that we stand at a crossroads every day. We are not coerced into holiness; we choose it. This choice is liberating because it aligns us with the Creator who desires our good. The psalm echoes this by portraying the law as a source of blessing and light—something to delight in, not dread.

In the Gospel, Jesus radicalizes this invitation. He does not lower the bar; He raises it to the level of the heart. It is not enough to avoid murder if we harbor anger; not enough to avoid adultery if lust consumes us. Jesus calls us to purity of intention, integrity of word, and love that mirrors the Father's perfect love.

Paul's words in Corinthians provide the key to living this higher righteousness: it is impossible by human strength alone. True fulfillment of the law comes through the Spirit who reveals God's wisdom—wisdom that the world cannot grasp. This Spirit dwells in us, enabling us to choose life, to follow the law joyfully, and to live with hearts transformed.

In our own time, when moral relativism tempts us to redefine right and wrong according to personal preference, these readings challenge us: Will we choose the narrow path of God's wisdom, or the broad road of self-deception? Jesus shows us that true freedom is not license to do whatever we feel like, but the freedom to become who God created us to be—holy, as He is holy.

As we approach the Eucharist on this Sunday, let us ask the Holy Spirit to scrutinize our hearts (cf. 1 Cor 2:10). Where do we settle for external compliance while harboring resentment, impurity, or dishonesty? Where have we diminished God's law to fit our comfort? Let us choose life—choose the commandments, choose purity of heart, choose the hidden wisdom of the Cross.

May Mary, who pondered God's word in her heart and said "fiat" to His will, intercede for us, that we too may follow the law of the Lord with joy and be blessed in our choices. Jesus IS the Law!

Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!

Daniel Penny Trial Update VI

Title: The Daniel Penny Trial: A Complex Journey Through Justice

The trial of Daniel Penny, a former Marine charged with manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide in the death of Jordan Neely, has been a focal point of public attention and legal scrutiny. As the trial progresses, recent developments have added layers of complexity to an already intricate case. This blog post delves into the latest updates, including the dropping of charges and the jury's deadlock.

Background of the Case

On May 1, 2023, Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old homeless man, was killed after being placed in a chokehold by Daniel Penny on a New York City subway. Neely, known for his Michael Jackson impersonations, had a history of mental illness and erratic behavior. On the day of the incident, witnesses described Neely as acting aggressively and making threatening statements. Penny, a 25-year-old Marine veteran, intervened and restrained Neely in a chokehold for nearly six minutes, leading to Neely's death.

The Charges

Daniel Penny was initially charged with second-degree manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide. The prosecution argued that Penny's actions were reckless and excessive, leading to Neely's death. The defense, on the other hand, contended that Penny acted in self-defense and in defense of other passengers on the subway.

Jury Deliberations and Deadlock

The jury began deliberations on the charges against Penny on December 3, 2024. After more than 20 hours of deliberation over several days, the jury reported that they were unable to reach a unanimous decision on the second-degree manslaughter charge. This deadlock prompted Judge Maxwell Wiley to issue an Allen charge, instructing the jury to continue deliberating and make every possible effort to reach a verdict.

Despite the judge's instructions, the jury remained deadlocked on the manslaughter charge. The defense requested a mistrial, arguing that the Allen charge could be coercive. However, Judge Wiley denied the request, stating that it was too early to declare a mistrial and encouraged the jury to continue their deliberations.

Dropping of the Manslaughter Charge

On December 6, 2024, after further deliberations, the jury informed the judge that they were still unable to reach a unanimous decision on the manslaughter charge. In response, the prosecution agreed to dismiss the manslaughter charge to allow the jury to consider the lesser charge of criminally negligent homicide. The defense again requested a mistrial, but the judge granted the prosecution's request, allowing the jury to focus on the remaining charge.

Key Testimonies and Evidence

Throughout the trial, jurors heard testimonies from various witnesses, including subway passengers, police officers, medical experts, and a Marine Corps instructor who taught Penny chokehold techniques. The testimonies provided a detailed account of the events leading up to Neely's death and the immediate aftermath.

Jurors also reviewed video footage recorded by bystanders and police body cameras, which captured the chaotic scene on the subway and Penny's interactions with law enforcement. These videos were crucial in illustrating the context of the incident and the actions taken by Penny.

Broader Implications

The Daniel Penny trial has raised significant questions about public safety, mental health, and the use of force. The case has divided public opinion, with some viewing Penny as a protector of fellow subway riders and others seeing him as a vigilante who took the law into his own hands. The trial has also highlighted the challenges faced by individuals with mental illness and the need for better support systems.

Conclusion

As the jury continues to deliberate on the charge of criminally negligent homicide, the outcome of the Daniel Penny trial remains uncertain. The case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in legal proceedings and the importance of a fair and thorough judicial process. Regardless of the verdict, the trial has sparked important conversations about justice, safety, and mental health in our society.

If Penny is exonerated, this will lead to an open season on the homeless, mentally ill and vigilantism. People will be killed just for acting strangely or screaming.  Citizens will take it upon themselves to become "heroes" and kill people under a false pretense of "self-defense."  

Sources:

: [ABC News](https://abcnews.go.com/US/daniel-penny-jury-trial-vote-jordan-neely/story?id=116404879)

: [MSN](https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/daniel-penny-trial-top-manslaughter-charge-dismissed-in-nyc-subway-chokehold-case-after-jury-deadlock/ar-AA1vpMbr)

: [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/jury-daniel-penny-trial-tells-judge-cant-reach-agreement-manslaughter-rcna183185)

: [MSN](https://www.msn.com/en-us/crime/general/jury-in-daniel-penny-trial-tells-judge-they-can-t-reach-agreement-on-manslaughter-charge/ar-AA1voU4m)

https://www.sacerdotus.com/2023/05/marine-daniel-penny-kills-homeless.html

https://www.sacerdotus.com/2023/06/daniel-penny-jordan-williams-self.html

https://www.sacerdotus.com/2024/10/trial-begins-for-marine-daniel-penny.html

https://www.sacerdotus.com/2023/06/daniel-penny-arraigned-jordan-williams.html

Daniel Penny Trial Update V

Title: The Daniel Penny Trial: Closing Arguments and the Path to Justice

The trial of Daniel Penny, a former Marine charged with manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide in the death of Jordan Neely, has captivated public attention and sparked intense debate. As the trial reaches its final stages, the closing arguments presented by both the prosecution and the defense offer a comprehensive view of the case and its broader implications.

Background of the Case

On May 1, 2023, Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old homeless man, was killed after being placed in a chokehold by Daniel Penny on a New York City subway. Neely, known for his Michael Jackson impersonations, had a history of mental illness and erratic behavior. On the day of the incident, witnesses described Neely as acting aggressively and making threatening statements. Penny, a 25-year-old Marine veteran, intervened and restrained Neely in a chokehold for nearly six minutes, leading to Neely's death.

Prosecution's Closing Arguments

The prosecution, led by Assistant District Attorney Dafna Yoran, argued that Penny's actions were reckless and excessive. They emphasized that Penny held Neely in a chokehold for far too long, even after Neely ceased to be a threat. The prosecution presented evidence from the city's medical examiner, who concluded that the chokehold caused Neely's death. They also highlighted video footage showing Penny demonstrating the chokehold to police, which they argued showed a clear understanding of the potential lethality of his actions.

Yoran stated, "Under the law, deadly physical force such as a chokehold is permitted only when it is absolutely necessary and for only as long as is absolutely necessary. And here, the defendant went way too far". The prosecution contended that Penny's actions were not justified and that he acted with indifference to Neely's life.

Defense's Closing Arguments

The defense, represented by attorney Steven Raiser, painted a different picture. They argued that Penny acted in self-defense and in defense of other passengers on the subway. Raiser described Neely as "violent and desperate," causing passengers to be "frozen with fear". The defense contended that Penny did not intend to kill Neely but was forced to maintain the chokehold out of fear that Neely would break free and pose a further threat.

Raiser also challenged the prosecution's medical evidence, presenting an alternate theory that Neely's death was caused by a combination of factors, including a genetic condition, synthetic marijuana in his system, and the struggle itself. The defense argued that Penny's actions were not those of a vigilante but of a concerned individual trying to protect others.

Key Testimonies and Evidence

Throughout the month-long trial, jurors heard testimonies from various witnesses, including subway passengers, police officers, medical experts, and a Marine Corps instructor who taught Penny chokehold techniques. The testimonies provided a detailed account of the events leading up to Neely's death and the immediate aftermath.

Jurors also watched videos recorded by bystanders and police body cameras, which captured the chaotic scene on the subway and Penny's interactions with law enforcement. These videos were crucial in illustrating the context of the incident and the actions taken by Penny.

Broader Implications

The Daniel Penny trial has raised significant questions about public safety, mental health, and the use of force. The case has divided public opinion, with some viewing Penny as a protector of fellow subway riders and others seeing him as a vigilante who took the law into his own hands. The trial has also highlighted the challenges faced by individuals with mental illness and the need for better support systems.

Conclusion

As the jury prepares to deliberate, the closing arguments have provided a comprehensive overview of the case and the key issues at stake. The outcome of the trial will have far-reaching implications, not only for Daniel Penny and Jordan Neely's family but also for broader societal discussions on justice, safety, and mental health. The trial serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in such cases and the importance of a fair and thorough judicial process.

---

: [ABC News](https://abcnews.go.com/US/closing-arguments-daniel-penny-trial-jordan-neely/story?id=116198488)

: [MSN](https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/daniel-penny-trial-enters-closing-arguments-in-jordan-neelys-subway-chokehold-death/ar-AA1v7azd)

: [ABC News](https://abcnews.go.com/US/closing-arguments-expected-monday-daniel-penny-trial/story?id=116350793)

: [AP News](https://apnews.com/article/daniel-penny-nyc-subway-chokehold-death-trial-f1c93630217a3abb9e675db465ebe272)

: [NBC New York](https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/daniel-penny-trial-closing-arguments/6031882/)

https://www.sacerdotus.com/2023/05/marine-daniel-penny-kills-homeless.html

https://www.sacerdotus.com/2023/06/daniel-penny-jordan-williams-self.html

https://www.sacerdotus.com/2024/10/trial-begins-for-marine-daniel-penny.html

https://www.sacerdotus.com/2023/06/daniel-penny-arraigned-jordan-williams.html

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time: Rigid Ritualism.

Reflecting on the Catholic Readings for September 1, 2024, Year B

The liturgical readings for September 1, 2024, invite us to delve into the depths of our faith and the responsibilities it entails. The readings for the Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B, present a tapestry of teachings that span from the Old Testament to the New, guiding believers in their spiritual journey.

The first reading from Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-8 emphasizes the importance of adherence to God's commandments. Moses instructs the Israelites to observe the statutes and decrees carefully, not adding or subtracting from them. This passage highlights the wisdom and intelligence of God's laws and the distinction they provide His people among the nations.

The Responsorial Psalm, Psalms 15:2-3, 3-4, 4-5, echoes the sentiment of righteousness and justice. It describes the characteristics of one who is worthy of dwelling in the Lord's presence, emphasizing integrity, truth, and respect for others.

In the second reading, James 1:17-18, 21b-22, 27, we are reminded that every perfect gift is from above. The passage calls for believers to be doers of the word and not merely listeners, highlighting the essence of pure and undefiled religion before God: to care for those in need and to keep oneself unstained by the world.

The Gospel of Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 confronts the tension between human traditions and divine commandments. Jesus challenges the Pharisees and scribes on their strict adherence to ritual purity, pointing out the necessity of purity of the heart over external observances.

These readings collectively urge the faithful to reflect on the authenticity of their faith. They are called to live out the commandments genuinely, to embody the word of God in action, and to prioritize the purity of the heart. This reflection on the readings is an invitation to examine one's life in the light of God's word and to recommit to living a life that is pleasing to Him, marked by justice, service, and holiness.

Living Out the Teachings: Practical Applications of the Catholic Readings for September 1, 2024

The Catholic readings for September 1, 2024, provide a profound reflection on faith and action. They encourage believers to not only listen to the word of God but to actively live it out in their daily lives. Here are some practical ways to embody the teachings from the readings of the Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B:

1. Adherence to God's Commandments:

   - Daily Reflection: Start or end your day with a reflection on one of God's commandments, contemplating its meaning and relevance in your life.

   - Integrity in Actions: Make a conscious effort to align your actions with the commandments, ensuring that your daily decisions reflect God's laws.

2. Righteousness and Justice:

   - Community Service: Volunteer in community service projects that aim to uplift the marginalized and support justice initiatives.

   - Fair Dealings: Practice fairness and honesty in all your dealings, whether it's in business, relationships, or casual interactions.

3. Being Doers of the Word:

   - Active Faith: Participate actively in your parish or faith community, not just attending services but engaging in ministries and activities.

   - Word in Action: When faced with decisions, ask yourself how you can apply the wisdom from the scriptures to make a choice that reflects your faith.

4. Care for Those in Need:

   - Charitable Works: Support or initiate charitable works and programs that provide for the needy, such as food banks, shelters, and medical aid.

   - Personal Outreach: Look for opportunities in your own life to assist those who might need help, be it a neighbor, a friend, or a stranger.

5. Purity of Heart:

   - Mindful Consumption: Be mindful of the media and content you consume, choosing those that nurture rather than corrupt your heart.

   - Inner Reflection: Spend time in prayer or meditation, seeking to cleanse your heart of negative emotions like anger, jealousy, or pride.

6. Authentic Christian Witness:

   - Role Model: Strive to be a role model in your community, showing what it means to live as a Christian in the modern world.

   - Dialogue and Understanding: Engage in respectful dialogue with others about your faith, seeking to understand and be understood.

By integrating these practices into your life, you can move beyond mere contemplation of the word to active and meaningful expression of your faith. It's about making small, consistent changes that align your daily life with the teachings of the scriptures. In doing so, you become a living testament to the transformative power of God's word, inspiring others through your example. Remember, it's not about grand gestures but the everyday choices that reflect the essence of the readings and the core of the Christian faith.

Unfortunately, even the Catholic Church is not immune from Phrarisaic behavior. We have those who call themselves "Radical Traditionalists" who adhere to the rule of the law and not the spirit. Even some "traditionalists" have adopted similar attitudes forcing the Pope to describe this as "rigid."  Yes, we do need laws and rules. That is a given. However, we have to remember why the rules exist and for whom. 

The rubrics of the Church exist to keep order in the Liturgy, and this is a good thing. However, when the rubrics become an optical to spiritual growth and grace, then this is a huge problem. When we get caught up on whether people have their hands raised during the Our Father if a priest has expensive vestments or not, or if the pope wears traditional African patterns during a Mass in Africa, that is when we have a problem. We forget why we are at the Liturgy.  

If we claim receiving Communion in the Tongue is more sacred than on the hand or rush to the line of the priest because receiving Holy Communion from a deacon or extraordinary minister of the Holy Eucharist is somehow not the same as receiving from the celebrant directly, then we have a huge problem. We did not internalize the faith. It has become a mindless ritual based on our personal palates.  

It turns the ritual into an idol. This is why Pope Francis and some priests have said that the Eucharist or Eucharistic processions can become idolatry.  This is not because of the Eucharist, but because of our perception towards the Eucharist and the Liturgy surrounding it.  Again, if we go to Mass or a Eucharistic Procession to look at what the fashion is of the clergy and ministers, or if there are altar girls or not; if we go to a Eucharistic Procession to see if the monstrance is "traditional" and a canopy or incense are used; if we go to Mass to look at the laity and how they dress or pray or if there are altar girls or woman at the sanctuary, then this is problematic.  We did not internalize the spirituality behind these rituals. 

Furthermore, if we go about saying that the Mass has to be Latin or that Latin and church bells have some power over the devil than English or any other language, then we have turned Latin into an idol. Only God has power!  Languages are man-made social constructs!  They have no power over the devil unless God is behind the language directly!  We need to be careful not to perform and exaggerate piety. Piety is great, but only if it helps us focus on Christ and be more like Him. If piety brings us to an echo chamber where we sit in and voice our rants and pinpoint others, then it is useless. We need to be doers of the word and not hearers! We need to put the Word into action the right way that directs to Christ and is focused on Him! We need to put an end to rigid ritualism.

As we ponder these readings, we are encouraged to ask ourselves how we can better embody these teachings in our daily lives. How can we demonstrate wisdom and intelligence through our adherence to God's laws? How can we be doers of the word in a world that often values words over actions? And how can we ensure that our hearts remain pure in a world filled with distractions and temptations?

The readings for September 1, 2024, challenge us to be witnesses of God's love and commandments in a world that is in dire need of authentic Christian witness. They call us to be beacons of light in the darkness, living out the teachings of Christ not just in words, but through our actions and the purity of our hearts.

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Follow the Spirit of the Law

 URGENT: Today's second reading speaks of "good giving" and reminds us that "every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights." 

In light of this, please help keep this evangelization work alive by donating. So far a few have donated, but I have not met the goal. In December, I have to pay for the renewal of this domain name, so I need your help.  I also want to expand this work so it can reach even more people.  Please help me meet my campaign goal by donating at: www.gofundme.com/sacerdotus.

If about 2,700 people donate only $9.25-$10, then I will meet the goal quickly.  As more people donate, gofundme will in turn place my campaign on the front page of their website giving it more promotion.  So I hope you reading this will help with a donation.  

Remember, after September 2021 if I have not raised enough, then I will have to wind this work down. God will judge us not only on how good we were but also on how much we have helped each other in love by giving; and not on what we saved up in life (Luke 6:38, Matthew 6:19).  

Thank you, God bless + Mary keep!'


REFLECTION:
Today's readings are about the real Law of God in our hearts.

The first reading tells us of Moses.  He instructs the people of Israel to listen to the statutes and decrees given by the Lord. God has given the Hebrews the promised land along with the Commandments (Deuteronomy 1:8, Joshua 1:3, Exodus 20). The name "Israel" means "one who wins with God" (Genesis 35:10). Israel would become the name of the people of God (Deuteronomy 33:29, Isaiah 44:21). This new nation would be one founded upon God's law (Exodus 21:1, Psalm 78:5).  Moses tells the people to observe the Law carefully and not add to or subtract from them. Those who live by the Law will be in observance of God's will and live in His presence as we read in the responsorial Psalm ((Leviticus 18:5, Proverbs 7:2, John 14:15, Proverbs 3:1).

We must do justice in order to live in the presence of God as the responsorial Psalm tells us (Isaiah 1:17). Those who walk blameless and do justice; who has truth in his or their heart and speak no deceit are who God will take into His abode (Psalm 24). We must be like this, doing harm to no one; hating no one (Romans 13:10, John 13:34-35, Matthew 5:44).  We must lend to others without asking for interest (Exodus 22:25-27, Leviticus 25:25-37, Nehemiah 5:10,11). Our hearts and minds must be pure, focused on God and His law (Psalm 123:1, Lamentations 3:41). This law is planted in our hearts as we read in the second reading (Jeremiah 31:33, Ezekiel 36:27, Hebrews 10:16).

In the second reading, we are told that all good giving is from heaven above (2 Corinthians 9:7). We must help others, donate our time, goods, and even money to help others (Deuteronomy 15:10, 16:17, Proverbs 21:26, 28:27, Luke 3:11). God willed us into being to be the first fruits of kindness and generosity (Acts 17:25). Today, we see many so-called preachers speaking of the "Gospel of prosperity."  There is no such thing.  This is a lie of the devil (John 8:44, Luke 4:6, 1 Timothy 6:10). The Gospel is the Gospel of the Poor (Luke 4:18, Matthew 11:5).  We are called to be poor (Matthew 6:19-21, Matthew 19:21). This does not mean that we have to be on the streets begging (2 Thessalonians 3:10).  What this means is that what we do have must not define who we are (Luke 21:1-4, Luke 12:15). We must be ready to let go of it if and when the time comes. When we do have enough, we must make use of it to help, not only ourselves and loved ones, but also others (Luke 6:38, Proverbs 11:24-25, Proverbs 19:17).  Charity is true charity when it is done to the stranger (Matthew 10:42). The other day I tweeted this:

God is good. Someone gave me 2 "win for life" tickets, I won $2 in one and $20 in the other. First homeless person I see gets lunch tomorrow

— Sacerdotنs (@Sacerdotus) August 23, 2015

Now I did not tweet that to show off or do like the Pharisees by standing on the corner so others can see (Matthew 6:5).  I tweeted this to hopefully inspire others. It feels good to help others, especially a complete stranger. I loved working at St. Francis House in Boston. Handing out clothes, shoes, and food to the homeless of "Beantown" gave me great joy. This good work of helping others is that word that is planted in us.  We must put this word to practice (Matthew 5:16, James 2:14-17).  As the reading says, "be doers of the word and not hearers only."  Religion must not just be something we do on Sundays. It must be a living faith that is genuine, in service of others and most importantly, of God (James 1:27).  We must not become like the Pharisees who used religion and the law to oppress others and themselves as we read in the Gospel.

In the Gospel, we read of Jesus confronting the Pharisees or teachers of the Law in His day.  These men noticed that some of Jesus' disciples ate with "unclean hands." Under the law, Jews are supposed to go through a ritual before eating which includes the washing of hands (Leviticus 17:15).  This was a tradition that developed in the past and served for hygienic purposes at first, but then became a spiritual gesture or sacramental of sorts in the Jewish faith. Anyhow, the Pharisees questioned Jesus on this asking Him, "Why do your disciples not follow the tradition of the elders but instead eat a meal with unclean hands?"  They asked this because these men were so caught up in rules and regulations that they failed to see why these rules even existed. They mechanically followed them without internalizing them (Mark 2:27).

Today, we have even in the Catholic Church some people who go to Mass just to nitpick how the priest celebrated it or how the altar servers and faithful participated. I have so many stories of some parishioners coming up to me to criticize a particular priest or altar server. They got the details to the letter in regards to what they wanted to point out and criticize, but when I asked them what the readings were about or what the homily was on, they had no clue. These people like the Pharisees did not internalize the Mass.  Instead, they were focused on judging the celebrant, altar servers, and their peers in the pews (1 Samuel 16:7).  Jesus faced the same hypocrisy as the Pharisees.  After the Pharisees questioned Him, Jesus responds, “Well did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites, as it is written: This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines human precepts.  You disregard God’s commandment but cling to human tradition.”  Jesus continues stating that what comes from the outside cannot defile a person.  Rather, what comes from within is what does.  

Pope Francis recently released a Motu Propio entitled Traditionis Custodes.  In it, he gave more authority to bishops to regulate how the Extraordinary Form of the Mass is used. Before this, he conducted a survey where the bishops gave their thoughts on the Extraordinary Mass and how it is being used in their dioceses. The majority of bishops showed concerned.  When Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI issued his own Motu Propio Summorum Pontificum, he was hoping to bring unity and foster a love for the Mass in its many forms. Unfortunately, certain factions within the Church who call themselves "traditionalists" and "radical traditionalists abused the Extraordinary Form of the Mass.  They used it to attack the Ordinary Form, Vatican II, the pope, and Catholics who attend the Ordinary Form. They see themselves as the sole authentic Catholics who participate in the "true Mass." The Ordinary Form to them is an "innovation." This of course is not true and shows a lack of education on the part of these Catholics.  They behave like the Pharisees caught up in the letter of the law and not the spirit.  

He says, “From within people, from their hearts, come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly.  All these evils come from within and they defile.”   By stating this, He made all foods clean (Mark 7:19).  The Jews got carried away with their laws. In the past, they avoided what the Gentiles ate because these animals were sacrificed to pagan deities and faced stomach illness which traumatized them due to animals that needed extra preparation (swine).  This overzealous piety got the best of them becoming a sort of taboo.  The Pharisees were caught up in the externals.  It was all about these rites, clothing, and gesticulation with them (Matthew 23:13). Jesus reminds us that we must not be like them (Matthew 6:5, Matthew 23:33).  All foods are clean, spiritually speaking.  Touching or eating pork, shellfish, etc has no effect on the soul in regards to sin and holiness.  The Jews got carried away with the laws.  These rules were made not for us to be slaves to them, but for them to help us become better people (Mark 2:23-27).  Christians today are not bound by the laws (lower-case L). These are the cultural and civil laws of Israel that served the people at that time. Many atheists love to claim that Christians are hypocrites because they eat shellfish or wear polyester in light of the rules in Leviticus (Leviticus 11:12, Leviticus 19:19).  However, they do not understand that these laws were created to serve the Jews of the time and to regulate their culture and civil affairs, not faith.  It is the Law (capital L/moral laws) that we are all bound by, not the law (lowercase/rituals, culture, civil) (John 14:15-31, Romans 7:1-6). This is the Law of God, His commandments (Exodus 20).

We in the Catholic Church must not be like the Pharisees by getting caught up in rites and externals that change with every council that comes by.  These rites and rubrics serve us, we do not serve them. We must not become like those who are so caught up in rules and rites that we even attack the Pope and reject Vatican councils just to adhere to legalism. If we do this, we become like the Pharisees.   Instead of the rites bringing us to worship God, these rites become a god to us forcing us to betray the Catholic Church and the Successor of St. Peter. We become cold and rigid like the Pharisees.  Our faith tradition is a living one, not a dead one stuck in a set period of time. "Tradition is the living faith of the dead, traditionalism the dead faith of the living" (quoted from "On the Lord's Appearing: An Essay On Prayer And Tradition," pg 17).   Vestments, rubrics, gestures all serve to guide us to God, not to imprison us into becoming liturgical mindless robots mumbling things without sincerity or without understanding what we are saying (Matthew 6:7).   We must not participate in Mass as if it was some act or script for a television show that we must get perfect.  This is not what the Mass is supposed to be.  Let us internalize the faith using the externals the Church allows so that we can become generous loving Christians who help others, and do everything to please God and become the image of God.  In today's age of this pandemic of the Covid 19 Coronavirus, we must appreciate the Mass more and all liturgical rites of the Church.  We must see the Spirit behind them and not just the letter.  May Jesus Christ be praised!


Readings: Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time | USCCB

2nd Sunday of Lent: Transfigured by Christ

Today's readings recall how Christ is the One the Jews waited for. He is the the completion of God's plan to save humanity.  They remind us of faith.

In the first reading from Genesis 12:1-4, we read how God speaks to Abram and tells him to leave his past to a new land. He will become the 'Father' of a new nation.

The first reading reminds us how it all started. God made a covenant with Abram who would later be called Abraham. He would be the model of true faith for all and God would found a nation which he would be the father of. God calls Abram to leave all behind. This is not easy to do. Imagine listening to a disembodied voice telling you to leave your family's land and go to a strange land which the voice promises will be yours. Abram trusted God. He never questioned God's commands.

Lent is a period of meditation and renewal. This story is a great way to meditate on what it means to have faith. Faith means to trust God. God is the creator, God is good. Trusting God does not take anything away because we know He wants the best for us. However, due to Original Sin and our own Actual sin, we don't see things clearly in life. (1 Corinthians 13:12)  Faith is not easy to live by. In faith we fall into a Teleological Suspension from our human ethical laws as the philosopher Kierkegaard posits in his Problema writings.  Faith becomes a paradox in itself. Nevertheless, it is by faith that we grow in God because we learn to trust Him.  In any relationship trust is key. Without trust, we cannot have any kind of relationship.  Jesus Himself calls us to leave all things and follow Him. (Luke 18:22)

In response to the first reading we recite Psalm 33 which speaks of trust in God and goes in detail about how God cares of us.  We call on God to have mercy on us as He guides our path.  Again, the keyword 'trust' is mentioned in the first sentence "Upright is the word of the LORD,
and all his works are trustworthy."  We recall how God is trustworthy.  Like Abram, we are called to leave all behind and trust God because God is God and does not deceive.  

The second reading is from the Letter of St. Paul to Timothy and speaks of how God's grace brings us to holiness.  It starts out by telling us that our faith is not easy and is full of hardships.  However, God gives us the strength to carry on.  Again, this reading reminds us of trusting God.  God has everything under control despite our lives getting hectic at times especially when we get closer to God.  It is God's grace that keeps us going, not our own. Today there is so much worry and fear about the Covid-19 or Coronavirus. Stores are full of people buying purell, tissue, sanitizing wipes, sprays and what not. There have even been fights over this due to low supply. Some stores have even engaged in price gouging taking advantage of the situation to make extra money. It is just horrible. What is worse that all of this is the fact that leaders in our faith are suspending Masses and the Sacraments. This is just disturbing. Where is their faith?  What kind of faith lacks faith?  These are trying times. It seems to me that this is all the workings of the spirit of the antichrist which seeks to destroy faith.  Now more than ever, we must increase our faith.  It is God that keeps us going. No virus or disease has the final say.   

Lastly, the Gospel is the story of the Transfiguration where Christ takes Peter, James and John to a mountain top and He visibly transforms into a glorious being glowing in God's glory.  Moses and Elijah, two pillars of the Jewish faith appear beside Christ representing Israel, the law and the prophets while validating that Christ is the one they were preparing the Hebrews for.  This transformation is a foreshadowing of the Resurrection where Christ will appear in a glorious form after He rises from the dead.  Again, the Gospel shows how Peter, James and John trusted Christ and followed Him.  They were the first to be called and were His closest disciples.

We as followers of Christ must reflect on this during Lent and throughout the year. We must analyze where our faith lies.

 
• We must ask ourselves how much do we trust God?  
• Are we willing to give up everything for God? 
• Are we willing to go wherever God calls us to even if it brings us pain and suffering?  

This is why we do penance, abstain from meat, and fast. This is why we give up something for Lent and offer more so we can discipline ourselves. Detachment is the key to getting closer to God. St. Francis of Assisi and other saints have showed us that only in casting away our worries, our material desires do we grow closer to God.  God afflicts the comfortable and comforts the afflicted. Our trials make sense only in faith.  Let us continue to grow in faith, trust God and focus on His Son Jesus who is the only One we need.  

  

Readings: http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/030820.cfm

6th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Follow God's Law

Today's readings remind us that we must follow God's law. In other words, we must follow the rules set in place by God. The first reading tells us, "If you choose you can keep the commandments," this tells that that it is up to us. God does not force us.  We have to freely choose. God gives us fire and water, life and death.  We have to make a choice. These are the choices set before us. Regardless of what choice we make, God has predetermined rules without our being. This is the Natural Law. It guides our conscience to seek the good and just; to surpass our animalistic tendencies. God has set these rules in us, as well as, the rules of how nature must operate. Science calls this the "Laws of Physics." Everything was predetermined before the ages via God's wisdom. Jesus reminds us that He did not come to remove the law, but to fulfill it. This means that the law will always be in place, but He came to show how they are supposed to be followed. Human beings love to distort things. They have a tendency to over legislate.

This includes those in the Church. We make rules and then add rules on top of those rules and on top of those etc.  In the end, we have an entanglement of law that stifle progress and serve no purpose. We see this in the Scripture where the Pharisees took the law and made up all kinds of interpretations that forced them to be trapped in a mechanic display of religion that never internalized.  Today, we see in the Catholic faith those who call themselves "Traditionalists" or "Radical Traditionalists" who live just to criticize others and do not interpret the laws and rubrics of the Church via their intended purposes. We then have quarrels about receiving Holy Communion only on the tongue or the sanctuary only having males present and no females. The Gospel is lost in all of this. These individuals turn into rabid gossips who are bitter instead of Christians full of love, faith, hope and joy. This is why following the law must be accompanied by a spiritual life. 



Readings:

http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/021620.cfm

6th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Follow the Law

Today's readings are on using our free will to follow God's law. The first reading reminds us that we have a choice. We can choose to keep the commandments or reject them.  God presents to us "fire and water," "life and death," "good and evil." He lets us choose which one we want.  Whatever our choice is, that is what we will receive. Atheists often ask, "If God is good, why is there evil?" God is definitely good (Psalm 136:1).  He is absolute and immutable (Numbers 23:19, 1 Samuel 15:29, Psalm 102:26-27). Evil is the absence of good. It "exists" to us because we choose it to exist via our actions, or lack of them. Evil in the world has no bearing on God's existence or attributes. Again, we choose. We choose to defend human life or let a culture or death take over our laws and culture.  We choose to defend the sanctity of marriage or let relativism take over and distort it. The evils in this world are on us, not God. We cannot blame Him. Pope St. Pius V said, “All the evil in the world is due to lukewarm Catholics.” Jesus Himself is not very fond of lukewarm Catholics. He "spits them out" (Revelation 3:15-17). God expects us to do the right thing. He does not order anyone to sin or act unjustly, we are told in the reading.  I find it odd when some people living in sin say it is "God's will." No, it is not! I have heard people say having an abortion is a just and moral act or that being actively gay is a "blessing." These are lies of Satan, the father of lies who uses sophism to deceive man (John 8:44). 

We must follow God's law, as the responsorial Psalm describes. If we do so, we will be blessed.  We will be blameless before others. Our free will must not be abused. We must do what ought to be done, not what we want to do. Human beings are fragile (Matthew 26:41). We need God to help us with discernment and how to follow His statutes. Wisdom from God is necessary. This wisdom is mature and not the immature wisdom of the world. God's wisdom is above the learned; above science, philosophy and all man's knowledge (1 Corinthians 1:25). It is mysterious and hidden, yet near and close to those who humbly ask for it. If we truly understood God's wisdom, we would rush to follow each Commandment.  The rulers during the time of Christ would not have crucified Him.  However, we see things through a veil (Hebrews 6:19). We rely on faith to help us see what is beyond the senses.  This Holy Spirit is our guide. The Spirit of God who is God and knows God completely. No eye or ear has perceived what God has prepared for those of us who follow Him sincerely.  

In the Gospel, Jesus repeats the importance of following God's law. He reminds the people that He did not come to abolish the law, but to fulfill it.  He does this because He is God directly communicating to man. God's law trumps man's law. Jesus reminds us of this by recalling the law Moses made regarding divorce. Moses allowed it, but God never ordained it.  This is why Jesus says that anyone even looks at another with lust has committed adultery. We must also be truthful and sincere. Our "yes" must be "yes" and our "no" must be "no." There is no in between. This is true when we decide to follow Jesus. We must say "yes" and mean it. We must not put Jesus on hold or second guess Him. Let us commit ourselves to the Lord by following His Commandments. Let us use our free will to do good and battle the evil in this world that derives from the spirtual forces behind the scenes who influence our choices.  May Jesus Christ be praised!  

Readings:  http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/021217.cfm

Please help this ministry by donating via PayPal or Www.gofundme.com/Sacerdotus.  Your gift will help me continue this work and expand it.

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see: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2017/02/new-book-introduction-to-catholic.html













Here are some writings from holy writers: 

But the "one dot" [smallest letter] is not only the iota of the Greeks but also that which among the Hebrews is called the yod. And the "one iota" or "one dot" can symbolically be said to be Jesus, since the beginning of his name is written not only by Greeks with an iota but also by Hebrews with a yod. So Jesus will be the one dot, the Word of God in the law which does not pass from the law until all is accomplished.
But the iota might also be (as he himself says) the Ten Commandments of the law, for everything else passes away, but these do not pass away. But neither does Jesus pass away; if he "falls to the ground" he does so willingly, in order to bear much fruit. Again, the "one iota" or "one dot" has mastery over things both in heaven and on earth.
— Origen
(185 - 254)


Source: "Fragment 99," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 97.

He did not say, "If you have anything against your brother" but "If your brother has anything against you," so that a greater need for reconciliation is imposed on you. As long as we are unable to make peace with our brother, I do not know whether we may offer our gifts to God.
— St. Jerome
(347 - 320)


Source: "Commentary on Matthew, 1.5.23," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 104.

As the degree of innocence increases, faith becomes more advanced. For we are advised to be free not only from our own particular faults but also from those things that affect us outwardly. For is it not because of sin that the bodily members were condemned in the first place?
The right eye is no less sinister than the left. It is pointless to chastise a foot that is unaware of lust and thus involves no grounds for punishment. But our members indeed do differ from each other while we are all one body.
We are here being advised to pluck out inordinate loves or friendships if they are the occasion that leads us further into wrongdoing. We would do well to not even have the benefit of a member, like an eye or a foot, if it furnishes the avenue by which one is drawn by excessive affections into a partnership with hell. Even the cutting away of a member might be beneficial if the heart (figuratively speaking) were also able to be cut away. But if the impulse of the heart is left unchanged, the cutting away of a member would be pointless.

— St. Hilary of Poitiers
(315 - 367)


Source: "On Matthew 4.10," quoted in Manlio Simonetti, ed., Matthew 1–13, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001), 92.

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time - The Spirit of the Law

URGENT: Today's second reading speaks of "good giving" and reminds us that "every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights." 

In light of this, please help keep this evangelization work alive by donating. So far a few have donated, but I have not met the goal. In December, I have to pay for the renewal of this domain name, so I need your help.  I also want to expand this work so it can reach even more people.  Please help me meet my campaign goal by donating at: www.gofundme.com/sacerdotus.

If about 2,700 people donate only $9.25-$10, then I will meet the goal quickly.  As more people donate, gofundme will in turn place my campaign on the front page of their website giving it more promotion.  So I hope you reading this will help with a donation.  

Remember, after December 2015 if I have not raised enough, then I will have to wind this work down. God will judge us not only on how good we were, but also on how much we have helped each other in love by giving; and not on what we saved up in life (Luke 6:38, Matthew 6:19).  

Thank you, God bless + Mary keep!'


REFLECTION:
Today's readings are about the real Law of God in our hearts.

The first reading tells us of Moses.  He instructs the people of Israel to listen to the statutes and decrees given by the Lord. God has given the Hebrews the promised land along with the Commandments (Deuteronomy 1:8, Joshua 1:3, Exodus 20). The name "Israel" means "one who wins with God" (Genesis 35:10). Israel would become the name of the people of God (Deuteronomy 33:29, Isaiah 44:21). This new nation would be one founded upon God's law (Exodus 21:1, Psalm 78:5).  Moses tells the people to observe the Law carefully and not add to or subtract from them. Those who live by the Law will be in observance of God's will and live in His presence as we read in the responsorial Psalm ((Leviticus 18:5, Proverbs 7:2, John 14:15, Proverbs 3:1).

We must do justice in order to live in the presence of God as the responsorial Psalm tells us (Isaiah 1:17). Those who walk blameless and does justice; who has truth in his or her heart and speaks no deceit is who God will take into His abode (Psalm 24). We must be like this, doing harm to no one; hating no one (Romans 13:10,John 13:34-35, Matthew 5:44).  We must lend to others without asking for interest (Exodus 22:25-27, Leviticus 25:25-37, Nehemiah 5:10,11). Our hearts and minds must be pure, focused on God and His law (Psalm 123:1, Lamentations 3:41). This law is planted in our heart as we read in the second reading (Jeremiah 31:33, Ezekiel 36:27, Hebrews 10:16).

In the second reading, we are told that all good giving is from heaven above (2 Corinthians 9:7). We must help others, donate our time, goods and even money to help others (Deuteronomy 15:10, 16:17, Proverbs 21:26, 28:27, Luke 3:11). God willed us into being to be the first-fruits of kindness and generosity (Acts 17:25). Today, we see many so-called preachers speaking of the "Gospel of prosperity."  There is no such thing.  This is a lie of the devil (John 8:44, Luke 4:6, 1 Timothy 6:10). The Gospel is the Gospel of the Poor (Luke 4:18, Matthew 11:5).  We are called to be poor (Matthew 6:19-21, Matthew 19:21). This does not mean that we have to be on the streets begging (2 Thessalonians 3:10).  What this means is that what we do have must not define who we are (Luke 21:1-4, Luke 12:15). We must be ready to let go of it if and when the time comes. When we do have enough, we must make use of it to help, not only ourselves and loved ones, but also others (Luke 6:38, Proverbs 11:24-25, Proverbs 19:17).  Charity is true charity when it is done to the stranger (Matthew 10:42). The other day I tweeted this:

God is good. Someone gave me 2 "win for life" tickets, I won $2 in one and $20 in the other. First homeless person I see gets lunch tomorrow

— Sacerdotنs (@Sacerdotus) August 23, 2015

Now I did not tweet that to show off or do like the Pharisees by standing on the corner so others can see (Matthew 6:5).  I tweeted this to hopefully inspire others. It feels good to help others, especially a complete stranger. I loved working at St. Francis House in Boston. Handing out clothes, shoes and food to the homeless of "Beantown" gave me great joy. This good work of helping others is that word that is planted in us.  We must put this word to practice (Matthew 5:16, James 2:14-17).  As the reading says, "be doers of the word and not hearers only."  Religion must not just be something we do on Sundays. It must be a living faith that is genuine, in service of others and most importantly, of God (James 1:27).  We must not become like the Pharisees who used religion and the law to opress others and themselves as we read in the Gospel.

In the Gospel, we read of Jesus confronting the Pharisees or teachers of the Law in His day.  These men noticed that some of Jesus' disciples ate with "unclean hands." Under the law, Jews are supposed to go through a ritual before eating which includes the washing of hands (Leviticus 17:15).  This was a tradition that developed in the past and served for hygienic purposes at first, but then became a spiritual gesture or sacramental of sort in the Jewish faith. Anyhow, the Pharisees questioned Jesus on this asking Him, "Why do your disciples not follow the tradition of the elders but instead eat a meal with unclean hands?"  They asked this because these men were so caught up in rules and regulations that they failed to see why these rules even existed. They mechanically followed them without internalizing them (Mark 2:27).

Today, we have even in the Catholic Church some people who go to Mass just to nitpick how the priest celebrated it or how the altar servers and faithful participated. I have so many stories of some parishioners coming up to me to criticize a particular priest or altar server. They got the details to the letter in regards to what they wanted to point out and criticize, but when I asked them what the readings were about or what the homily was on, they had no clue. These people like the Pharisees did not internalize the Mass.  Instead, they were focused on judging the celebrant, altar servers and their peers in the pews (1 Samuel 16:7).  Jesus faced the same hypocrisy with the Pharisees.  After the Pharisees questioned Him, Jesus responds, “Well did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites, as it is written: This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me;in vain do they worship me,teaching as doctrines human precepts.  You disregard God’s commandment but cling to human tradition.”  Jesus continues stating that what comes from the outside cannot defile a person.  Rather, what comes from within is what does.

He says, “From within people, from their hearts, come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly.  All these evils come from within and they defile.”   By stating this, He made all foods clean (Mark 7:19).  The Jews got carried away with their laws. In the past, they avoided what the Gentiles ate because these animals were sacrificed to pagan deities and faced stomach illness which traumatized them due to animals that needed extra preparation (swine).  This overzealous piety got the best of them becoming a sort of taboo.  The Pharisees were caught up in the externals.  It was all about these rites, clothing and gesticulation with them (Matthew 23:13). Jesus reminds us that we must not be like them (Matthew 6:5, Matthew 23:33).  All foods are clean, spiritually speaking.  Touching or eating pork, shellfish etc has no affect on the soul in regards to sin and holiness.  The Jews got carried away with the laws.  These rules were made not for us to be slaves to them, but for them to help us become better people (Mark 2:23-27).  Christians today are not bound by the laws (lower-case L). These are the cultural and civil laws of Israel that served the people at that time. Many atheists love to claim that Christians are hypocrites because they eat shellfish or wear polyester in light of the rules in Leviticus (Leviticus 11:12, Leviticus 19:19).  However, they do not understand that these laws were created to serve the Jews of the time and to regulate their culture and civil affairs, not faith.  It is the Law (capital L/moral laws) that we are all bound by, not the law (lowercase/rituals, culture, civil) (John 14:15-31, Romans 7:1-6). This is the Law of God, His commandments (Exodus 20).

We in the Catholic Church must not be like the Pharisees by getting caught up in rites and externals that change with every council that comes by.  These rites and rubrics serve us, we do not serve them. We must not become like those who are so caught up in rules and rites that we even attack the Pope and reject Vatican councils just to adhere to legalism. If we do this, we become like the Pharisees.   Instead of the rites bringing us to worship God, these rites become god to us forcing us to betray the Catholic Church and the Successor of St. Peter. We become cold and rigid like the Pharisees.  Our faith tradition is a living one, not a dead one stuck in a set period of time. "Tradition is the living faith of the dead, traditionalism the dead faith of the living" (quoted from "On the Lord's Appearing: An Essay On Prayer And Tradition," pg 17).   Vestments, rubrics, gestures all serve to guide us to God, not to imprison us into becoming liturgical mindless robots mumbling things without sincerity or  without understanding what we are saying (Matthew 6:7).   We must not participate in Mass as if it was some act or script for a television show that we must get perfect.  This is not what the Mass is supposed to be.  Let us internalize the faith using the externals the Church allows so that we can become generous loving Christians who help others, and do everything to please God and become the image of God.  May Jesus Christ be praised!


Readings: http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/083015.cfm

Brother's Keeper: Love & Forgiveness - 23rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Today's readings are about admonishing the sinner and forgiveness.

The first reading is from Ezekiel and tells us of the mission of the prophet as one who judges what is good and evil and must convince the people to stay away from the latter.  He must be a "watchman" and guide, warning the people so that they hopefully will turn away from evil.

"With great power comes great responsibility"

You may be wondering, "Why is he quoting from Stan Lee who said that in the 'Spiderman' movie?"  Well first of all, this quote comes from the philosopher Voltaire, not Stan Lee. I mention this quote because it's related to the first reading. The Lord says,

“O wicked one, you shall surely die, ”
and you do not speak out to dissuade the wicked from his way,
the wicked shall die for his guilt,
but I will hold you responsible for his death.
But if you warn the wicked,
trying to turn him from his way,
and he refuses to turn from his way,
he shall die for his guilt,
but you shall save yourself."

Here, God is reminding the prophet that if he doesn't speak out to "dissuade the wicked" then the wicked will be punished, but the prophet will be responsible for that punishment which is in this case death.  This is important because we all are our brother's keeper. Cain disagreed with this important duty of ours, but God expects us to care for one another (Genesis 4:9). Unfortunately many times, we Catholics don't want to get involved. We let our family, friends and strangers fall into sin and leave them be. This is especially true regarding gay people we might know.  Instead of encouraging them to live as God does, we sometimes just let them live as if their lifestyle is justified in the eyes of God.

The same can be said in regards to abortion or helping others in general. We don't want to get Romans 15:14). If not, then the person will be punished for his or her sin (if he/she didn't change) and we will be responsible for not intervening. However, God says that if we do try to turn our friends away from wickedness and they refuse, then we will not be responsible because we tried and they didn't want to hear it. The key word here is TRIED.  Not everyone is going to listen to us, but the fact that we tried means a lot.

The responsorial Psalm replies to the first reading with the call to not harden our hearts if we hear His voice.  The Psalm recalls how God has always been there and that we should be grateful and not become stubborn and hard headed like the Hebrews at Massah who began to question and doubt God despite seeing the miracles He performed that wowed Egypt. This Psalm is important because how many times we hear God's voice, we go to Mass but still continue to sin.  Mass becomes a mere "obligation" and not a way of life. It becomes something we do on a weekend that we have to get over with quickly and then storm out of church and sin like there's no tomorrow.  This is not how it's supposed to be.

The second reading  reminds us that we owe nothing to anyone except that we have to love them. St. Paul even makes it clear that all the laws of God are summed into loving our neighbors as ourselves. If we love others, we will not disrespect our parents and those in authority, we will not disrespect or sin against our lovers, we will not steal from others, kill others, desire the goods or lovers of others. This make a lot of sense even in a secular sense.  If everyone on Earth loved each other, we would not need laws or punishments. There would be no need for courts, police, armies and all that stuff.

Finally in the Gospel, we read about how Jesus instructs His disciples on what to do when a brother sins against them.  These instructions apply to us as well.  We must tell our brother or the offender of his or her sin and work it out.  If he or she listens, then all is well.  However, if he or she does not want to hear it, then we must get others to join in and mediate the situation. If that does not work, we must even get the church involved.  However, if the church does not work, then this person must be left aside or excommunicated.  However, this does not mean he or she must be treated like trash or shunned like the Amish do who misinterpret the Scriptures.  Jesus then reminds the disciples of the authority they have to bind and unbind things.  In other words, they have the power to forgive sins. This Gospel tells us a lot about how the Church operates. The Church tries to reconcile people and when it does not work, she excommunicates them (2 Thessalonians 3:15). However, reconciliation is always on the table and the offender is always welcomed to come back, granted he or she changes his or her ways (Luke 17:3).

I understand there are some people who we just cannot stand. We want to push them down a flight or stairs or throw something at them; however, we must set aside those impulses and forgive.  We must love them as ourselves.  This doesn't mean we have to like them of what they do. Remember, God will reward you as the first reading tells us if we love one another and warn others of their wickedness even if they refuse to listen.  The problem will be their's not ours when they have to face God and account of their action or lack of action.  




Readings: http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/090714.cfm

Second Sunday of Lent Reflection

Today's readings recall how Christ is the One the Jews waited for. He is the the completion of God's plan to save humanity.  They remind us of faith.

In the first reading from Genesis 12:1-4, we read how God speaks to Abram and tells him to leave his past to a new land. He will become the 'Father' of a new nation.

The first reading reminds us how it all started. God made a covenant with Abram who would later be called Abraham. He would be the model of true faith for all and God would found a nation which he would be the father of. God calls Abram to leave all behind. This is not easy to do. Imagine listening to a disembodied voice telling you to leave your family's land and go to a strange land which the voice promises will be yours. Abram trusted God. He never questioned God's commands.

Lent is a period of meditation and renewal. This story is a great way to meditate on what it means to have faith. Faith means to trust God. God is the creator, God is good. Trusting God does not take anything away because we know He wants the best for us. However, due to Original Sin and our own Actual sin, we don't see things clearly in life. (1 Corinthians 13:12)  Faith is not easy to live by. In faith we fall into a Teleological Suspension from our human ethical laws as the philosopher Kierkegaard posits in his Problema writings.  Faith becomes a paradox in itself. Nevertheless, it is by faith that we grow in God because we learn to trust Him.  In any relationship trust is key. Without trust, we cannot have any kind of relationship.  Jesus Himself calls us to leave all things and follow Him. (Luke 18:22)

In response to the first reading we recite Psalm 33 which speaks of trust in God and goes in detail about how God cares of us.  We call on God to have mercy on us as He guides our path.  Again, the keyword 'trust' is mentioned in the first sentence "Upright is the word of the LORD,
and all his works are trustworthy."  We recall how God is trustworthy.  Like Abram, we are called to leave all behind and trust God because God is God and does not deceive.  

The second reading is from the Letter of St. Paul to Timothy and speaks of how God's grace brings us to holiness.  It starts out by telling us that our faith is not easy and is full of hardships.  However, God gives us the strength to carry on.  Again, this reading reminds us of trusting God.  God has everything under control despite our lives getting hectic at times especially when we get closer to God.  It is God's grace that keeps us going, not our own.  

Lastly, the Gospel is the story of the Transfiguration where Christ takes Peter, James and John to a mountain top and He visibly transforms into a glorious being glowing in God's glory.  Moses and Elijah, two pillars of the Jewish faith appear beside Christ representing Israel, the law and the prophets while validating that Christ is the one they were preparing the Hebrews for.  This transformation is a foreshadowing of the Resurrection where Christ will appear in a glorious form after He rises from the dead.  Again, the Gospel shows how Peter, James and John trusted Christ and followed Him.  They were the first to be called and were His closest disciples.

We as followers of Christ must reflect on this during Lent and throughout the year. We must analyze where our faith lies.

 
• We must ask ourselves how much do we trust God?  
• Are we willing to give up everything for God? 
• Are we willing to go wherever God calls us to even if it brings us pain and suffering?  

This is why we do penance, abstain from meat, and fast. This is why we give up something for Lent and offer more so we can discipline ourselves. Detachment is the key to getting closer to God. St. Francis of Assisi and other saints have showed us that only in casting away our worries, our material desires do we grow closer to God.  God afflicts the comfortable and comforts the afflicted. Our trials make sense only in faith.  Let us continue to grow in faith, trust God and focus on His Son Jesus who is the only One we need.  

  

Here are the readings:

Second Sunday of Lent
Lectionary: 25

Reading 1GN 12:1-4A
The LORD said to Abram:
“Go forth from the land of your kinsfolk
and from your father’s house to a land that I will show you.

“I will make of you a great nation,
and I will bless you;
I will make your name great,
so that you will be a blessing.
I will bless those who bless you
and curse those who curse you.
All the communities of the earth
shall find blessing in you.”

Abram went as the LORD directed him.


Responsorial Psalm PS 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22

R/ (22) Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
Upright is the word of the LORD,
and all his works are trustworthy.
He loves justice and right;
of the kindness of the LORD the earth is full.
R/ Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
See, the eyes of the LORD are upon those who fear him,
upon those who hope for his kindness,
To deliver them from death
and preserve them in spite of famine.
R/ Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.
Our soul waits for the LORD,
who is our help and our shield.
May your kindness, O LORD, be upon us
who have put our hope in you.
R/ Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.


Reading 2 2 TIM 1:8B-10

Beloved:
Bear your share of hardship for the gospel
with the strength that comes from God.

He saved us and called us to a holy life,
not according to our works
but according to his own design
and the grace bestowed on us in Christ Jesus before time began,
but now made manifest
through the appearance of our savior Christ Jesus,
who destroyed death and brought life and immortality
to light through the gospel.

Gospel MT 17:1-9
Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother,
and led them up a high mountain by themselves.
And he was transfigured before them;
his face shone like the sun
and his clothes became white as light.
And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them,
conversing with him.
Then Peter said to Jesus in reply,
“Lord, it is good that we are here.
If you wish, I will make three tents here,
one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.”
While he was still speaking, behold,
a bright cloud cast a shadow over them,
then from the cloud came a voice that said,
“This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased;
listen to him.”
When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate
and were very much afraid.
But Jesus came and touched them, saying,
“Rise, and do not be afraid.”
And when the disciples raised their eyes,
they saw no one else but Jesus alone.

As they were coming down from the mountain,
Jesus charged them,
“Do not tell the vision to anyone
until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”

Lectionary for Mass for Use in the Dioceses of the United States, second typical edition, Copyright © 2001, 1998, 1997, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine; Psalm refrain © 1968, 1981, 1997, International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved. Neither this work nor any part of it may be reproduced, distributed, performed or displayed in any medium, including electronic or digital, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.