One Walk

Dear Lord God, today readings surround me with the fact that I am to give thanks to You for and in everything; this I try to do. And the first fruits of my hands I am to give You; this I have not done as I should. You remind me that all You ask is that I keep Your commandment and remain obedient in all; this too I now try to do. But Lord God today Your Word’s and the Gospel of Jesus also give notice, that I am not to offer You a bribe or make unrighteous sacrifices to You; O Lord how can and will I know that my heart, mind and intent are pure, my nature is one of pride, selfishness and ambition, anger fills me and is relapsed by my mouth and actions, and though I die to myself to try and be closer to You I can not help but questions my motives. It is not my conscious attempt to deal with You now as I have in the past, making bribes and unrighteous sacrifices, I seek only You image and to reflect that in all I do and say, so that all who see and hear me can see You in me. O Lord let the Body of Jesus fill me, let the Blood of Jesus cleanse me, let the Words of Jesus guide and direct me, and together with Him Lord and the Holy Spirit convict me when I am wrong, but pick me up so that I may try again that each time there will be less of me and more of You. In the name of the Father, the Son Jesus and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

God wishes to be asked, He wishes to be forced, He wishes, in a certain manner, to be overcome by our prayer.

— Pope St. Gregory the Great

Sirach 35:1-12

1 He who keeps the law makes many offerings; he who heeds the commandments sacrifices a peace offering. 2 He who returns a kindness offers fine flour, and he who gives alms sacrifices a thank offering. 3 To keep from wickedness is pleasing to the Lord, and to forsake unrighteousness is atonement. 4 Do not appear before the Lord empty-handed, 5 for all these things are to be done because of the commandment. 6 The offering of a righteous man anoints the altar, and its pleasing odor rises before the Most High. 7 The sacrifice of a righteous man is acceptable, and the memory of it will not be forgotten. 8 Glorify the Lord generously, and do not stint the first fruits of your hands. 9 With every gift show a cheerful face, and dedicate your tithe with gladness. 10 Give to the Most High as he has given, and as generously as your hand has found. 11 For the Lord is the one who repays, and he will repay you sevenfold. 12 Do not offer him a bribe, for he will not accept it; and do not trust to an unrighteous sacrifice; for the Lord is the judge, and with him is no partiality.

Bible Study: [1-24] Keeping the commandments of the law and avoiding injustice constitute sacrifice pleasing and acceptable to God (Sirach 35:1-3). Offerings also should be made to him, cheerfully and generously; these he repays . . . sevenfold (Sirach 35:4-10). Extortion from widows and orphans is injustice, which God quickly repays (Sirach 35:11-18). Punishing the proud and the merciless and coming to the aid of the distressed, he requites all according to their deeds (Sirach 35:19-24).

Psalm 50:5-8, 14, 23

5 "Gather to me my faithful ones, who made a covenant with me by sacrifice!" 6 The heavens declare his righteousness, for God himself is judge! [Selah] 7 "Hear, O my people, and I will speak, O Israel, I will testify against you. I am God, your God. 8 I do not reprove you for your sacrifices; your burnt offerings are continually before me. 14 Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and pay your vows to the Most High; 23 He who brings thanksgiving as his sacrifice honors me; to him who orders his way aright I will show the salvation of God!"

Bible Study: [Psalm 50] A covenant lawsuit stating that the sacrifice God really wants is the sacrifice of praise accompanied by genuine obedience (cf Micah 6:1-8). It begins with a theophany and the summoning of the court (Psalm 50:1-6). Then in direct address God explains what is required of the faithful (Psalm 50:7-15), rebukes the hypocritical worshiper (Psalm 50:16-21), and concludes with a threat and a promise (Psalm 50:22-23; cf Isaiah 1:19-20).

Mark 10:28-31

28 Peter began to say to him, "Lo, we have left everything and followed you." 29 Jesus said, "Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, 30 who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life. 31 But many that are first will be last, and the last first."

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Dear Lord God, today we think of and celebrate all those that have served to defend this Country and given up their life in doing so. As Christian’s we should recall John 15:13 ‘Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.’  While many may question the reasons, the causes, the truth or lack there of about the conflicts, battles and wars this Country and the world as had; no one can question the love of those who died defending their love ones and their way of life. To serve, to lay down ones life in service, this is the love of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love we are all called too. In a world where we can become more easily concerned with processions, to think of giving up everything, leaving it all behind is awesome, amazing and worth all our honor, praise and prayer today. O Lord God today I ask and pray for Your protection, grace, mercy and forgiveness of those in service throughout the world; Your mercy, forgiveness and acceptance of all those that have died and pass on to be with You; those who knew You and those who did not; Your peace, comfort, mercy, grace and understanding for the love ones of those injured, disabled or that have died, let Your love springs forth understanding, pride and unity in support of there love one. These things I ask in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

The Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, is God, one and equal with the Father and the Son, of the same substance and also of the same nature. . . Yet he is not called the Spirit of the Father alone,. . . but the Spirit of both the Father and the Son.

— Council of Florence (1439)

Sirach 17:20-24

20 Their iniquities are not hidden from him, and all their sins are before the Lord. 22 A man’s almsgiving is like a signet with the Lord and he will keep a person’s kindness like the apple of his eye. 23 Afterward he will arise and requite them, and he will bring their recompense on their heads. 24 Yet to those who repent he grants a return, and he encourages those whose endurance is failing.

Bible Study: [19-27] Exhorting the sinner to return to God (Sirach 17:19-21, 24-26) the author implies that the Lord will postpone death for a repentant sinner so that he may fulfill his destiny of praising God on earth (Sirach 17:22-23). In the light of Christian teaching, the gift of final penitence extends this divine purpose into life everlasting. See note on Psalm 6:6; cf also Ezekiel 18:23; 33:11-16.

Psalm 32:1-2, 5-7

1 Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. 2 Blessed is the man to whom the LORD imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit. 5 I acknowledged my sin to thee, and I did not hide my iniquity; I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD"; then thou didst forgive the guilt of my sin. [Selah] 6 Therefore let every one who is godly offer prayer to thee; at a time of distress, in the rush of great waters, they shall not reach him. 7 Thou art a hiding place for me, thou preservest me from trouble; thou dost encompass me with deliverance. [Selah]

Bible Study: [Psalm 32] Of David – An individual thanksgiving and the second of the seven Penitential Psalms (cf Psalm 6). The opening declaration–the forgiven are blessed (Psalm 32:1-2)–arises from the psalmist’s own experience. At one time the psalmist was stubborn and closed, a victim of sin’s power (Psalm 32:3-4), and then became open to the forgiving God (Psalm 32:5-7). Sin here, as often in the Bible, is not only the personal act of rebellion against God but also the consequences of that act–frustration and waning of vitality. Having been rescued, the psalmist can teach others the joys of justice and the folly of sin (Psalm 32:8-11). [6] Flood waters: the untamed waters surrounding the earth, a metaphor for danger.

Mark 10:17-27

17 And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him, and asked him, "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" 18 And Jesus said to him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. 19 You know the commandments: `Do not kill, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.’" 20 And he said to him, "Teacher, all these I have observed from my youth." 21 And Jesus looking upon him loved him, and said to him, "You lack one thing; go, sell what you have, and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." 22 At that saying his countenance fell, and he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions. 23 And Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it will be for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!" 24 And the disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said to them again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." 26 And they were exceedingly astonished, and said to him, "Then who can be saved?" 27 Jesus looked at them and said, "With men it is impossible, but not with God; for all things are possible with God."

Bible Study: [15] Whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child: i.e., in total dependence upon and obedience to the gospel; cf Matthew 18:3-4. [18] Why do you call me good?: Jesus repudiates the term "good" for himself and directs it to God, the source of all goodness who alone can grant the gift of eternal life; cf Matthew 19:16-17. [23-27] In the Old Testament wealth and material goods are considered a sign of God’s favor (Job 1:10; Psalm 128:1-2; Isaiah 3:10). The words of Jesus in Mark 10:23-25 provoke astonishment among the disciples because of their apparent contradiction of the Old Testament concept (Mark 10:24.26). Since wealth, power, and merit generate false security, Jesus rejects them utterly as a claim to enter the kingdom. Achievement of salvation is beyond human capability and depends solely on the goodness of God who offers it as a gift (Mark 10:27).

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Dear Lord God, today this Pentecost Sunday I meditate on the Holy Spirit and the spiritual being that I, we all are. I listen to the books about the hidden gospels, the Dead Sea scrolls,  I hear the opinions, observations, interpretations and representations of those that have spend far more time than I studying Your Word’s – the Old Testament, the New Testament and the scrolls and manuscripts referred to as the Lost Books of the Bible, the early Church and more; and while I know I am just beginning to study what they have for many years, I cannot not help but think it is all in the Trinity. The secrets, the knowledge and wisdom to over come and understand. O Lord God there is much to be learned and gained from expanding the width and depth of practicing Your presence with, in and through me; please give me a discerning heart to love You above all, and mind to act on what and with what You teach me. O Lord God, hear my request and prayer, in Jesus name I ask Your guidance, direction and blessings so that I may continue my journey to You, Amen.

When we have once placed ourselves entirely in the hands of God, we need fear no evil. If adversity comes, He knows how to turn it to our advantage, by means which will in time be made clear to us.

— St. Vincent de Paul

Acts 2:1-11

1 When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly a sound came from heaven like the rush of a mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared to them tongues as of fire, distributed and resting on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. 5 Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. 6 And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in his own language. 7 And they were amazed and wondered, saying, "Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? 9 Par’thians and Medes and E’lamites and residents of Mesopota’mia, Judea and Cappado’cia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phryg’ia and Pamphyl’ia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyre’ne, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretans and Arabians, we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God."

Bible Study: [1-41] Luke’s pentecostal narrative consists of an introduction (Acts 2:1-13), a speech ascribed to Peter declaring the resurrection of Jesus and its messianic significance (Acts 2:14-36), and a favorable response from the audience (Acts 2:37-41). It is likely that the narrative telescopes events that took place over a period of time and on a less dramatic scale. The Twelve were not originally in a position to proclaim publicly the messianic office of Jesus without incurring immediate reprisal from those religious authorities in Jerusalem who had brought about Jesus’ death precisely to stem the rising tide in his favor. [2] There came from the sky a noise like a strong driving wind: wind and spirit are associated in John 3:8. The sound of a great rush of wind would herald a new action of God in the history of salvation. [3] Tongues as of fire: see Exodus 19:18 where fire symbolizes the presence of God to initiate the covenant on Sinai. Here the holy Spirit acts upon the apostles, preparing them to proclaim the new covenant with its unique gift of the Spirit (Acts 2:38). [4] To speak in different tongues: ecstatic prayer in praise of God, interpreted in Acts 2:6, 11 as speaking in foreign languages, symbolizing the worldwide mission of the church.

Psalm 104:1, 24, 29-31, 34

1 Bless the LORD, O my soul! O LORD my God, thou art very great! Thou art clothed with honor and majesty, 24 O LORD, how manifold are thy works! In wisdom hast thou made them all; the earth is full of thy creatures. 29 When thou hidest thy face, they are dismayed; when thou takest away their breath, they die and return to their dust. 30 When thou sendest forth thy Spirit, they are created; and thou renewest the face of the ground. 31 May the glory of the LORD endure for ever, may the LORD rejoice in his works, 34 May my meditation be pleasing to him, for I rejoice in the LORD.

Bible Study: [Psalm 104] A hymn praising God who easily and skillfully made rampaging waters and primordial night into a world vibrant with life. The psalmist describes God’s splendor in the heavens (Psalm 104:1-4), how the chaotic waters were tamed to fertilize and feed the world (104:5-18), and how primordial night was made into a gentle time of refreshment (Psalm 104:19-23). The picture is like Genesis 1:1-2: a dark and watery chaos is made dry and lighted so that creatures might live. The psalmist reacts to the beauty of creation with awe (Psalm 104:24-34). May sin not deface God’s work (Psalm 104:35)! [29-30] On one level, the spirit (or wind) of God is the fall and winter rains that provide food for all creatures. On another, it is the breath (or spirit) of God that makes beings live.

1 Corinthians 12:3-7, 12-13

3 Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking by the Spirit of God ever says "Jesus be cursed!" and no one can say "Jesus is Lord" except by the Holy Spirit. 4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of working, but it is the same God who inspires them all in every one. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body — Jews or Greeks, slaves or free — and all were made to drink of one Spirit.

Bible Study: [12:1-14:40] Ecstatic and charismatic activity were common in early Christian experience, as they were in other ancient religions. But the Corinthians seem to have developed a disproportionate esteem for certain phenomena, especially tongues, to the detriment of order in the liturgy. Paul’s response to this development provides us with the fullest exposition we have of his theology of the charisms. [2-3] There is an experience of the Spirit and an understanding of ecstatic phenomena that are specifically Christian and that differ, despite apparent similarities, from those of the pagans. It is necessary to discern which spirit is leading one; ecstatic phenomena must be judged by their effect (1 Cor 12:2). 1 Cor 12:3 illustrates this by an example: power to confess Jesus as Lord can come only from the Spirit, and it is inconceivable that the Spirit would move anyone to curse the Lord. [4-6] There are some features common to all charisms, despite their diversity: all are gifts (charismata), grace from outside ourselves; all are forms of service (diakoniai), an expression of their purpose and effect; and all are workings (energemata), in which God is at work. Paul associates each of these aspects with what later theology will call one of the persons of the Trinity, an early example of "appropriation."

 or Romans 8:8-17

8 and those who are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But you are not in the flesh, you are in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Any one who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. 10 But if Christ is in you, although your bodies are dead because of sin, your spirits are alive because of righteousness. 11 If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also through his Spirit which dwells in you. 12 So then, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh — 13 for if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body you will live. 14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the spirit of sonship. When we cry, "Abba! Father!" 16 it is the Spirit himself bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

Bible Study: [1-13] After his warning in Romans 7 against the wrong route to fulfillment of the objective of holiness expressed in Romans 6:22, Paul points his addressees to the correct way. Through the redemptive work of Christ, Christians have been liberated from the terrible forces of sin and death. Holiness was impossible so long as the flesh (or our "old self"), that is, self-interested hostility toward God (Romans 8:7), frustrated the divine objectives expressed in the law. What is worse, sin used the law to break forth into all manner of lawlessness (Romans 8:8). All this is now changed. At the cross God broke the power of sin and pronounced sentence on it (Romans 8:3). Christians still retain the flesh, but it is alien to their new being, which is life in the spirit, namely the new self, governed by the holy Spirit. Under the direction of the holy Spirit Christians are able to fulfill the divine will that formerly found expression in the law (Romans 8:4). The same Spirit who enlivens Christians for holiness will also resurrect their bodies at the last day (Romans 8:11). Christian life is therefore the experience of a constant challenge to put to death the evil deeds of the body through life of the spirit (Romans 8:13). [14-17] Christians, by reason of the Spirit’s presence within them, enjoy not only new life but also a new relationship to God, that of adopted children and heirs through Christ, whose sufferings and glory they share. [15] Abba: see the note on Mark 14:36.

John 20:19-23

19 On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, "Peace be with you." 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. 21 Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you." 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained."

Bible Study: [1-31] The risen Jesus reveals his glory and confers the Spirit. This story fulfills the basic need for testimony to the resurrection. What we have here is not a record but a series of single stories. [19-29] The appearances to the disciples, without or with Thomas (cf John 11:16; 14:5), have rough parallels in the other gospels only for John 20:19-23; cf Luke 24:36-39; Mark 16:14-18. [19] The disciples: by implication from John 20:24 this means ten of the Twelve, presumably in Jerusalem. Peace be with you: although this could be an ordinary greeting, John intends here to echo John 14:27. The theme of rejoicing in John 20:20 echoes John 16:22.   [20] Hands and . . . side: Luke 24:39-40 mentions "hands and feet," based on Psalm 22:17. [21] By means of this sending, the Eleven were made apostles, that is, "those sent" (cf John 17:18), though John does not use the noun in reference to them (see the note on John 13:16). A solemn mission or "sending" is also the subject of the post-resurrection appearances to the Eleven in Matthew 28:19; Luke 24:47; Mark 16:15. [22] This action recalls Genesis 2:7, where God breathed on the first man and gave him life; just as Adam’s life came from God, so now the disciples’ new spiritual life comes from Jesus. Cf also the revivification of the dry bones in Ezekial 37. This is the author’s version of Pentecost. Cf also the note on John 19:30. [23] The Council of Trent defined that this power to forgive sins is exercised in the sacrament of penance. See Matthew 16:19; Matthew 18:18.

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Dear Lord God, I wrestle with myself, the lion roams and the wolves snap at me, trying to scare and distract me. But I come to You to bolster my courage and sharpen my focus. For I know that in You and through You I can do all, but without You I can do nothing. So Lord God reach down and take my hand, lift me up and place my feet on solid ground, ready to walk a lone if that is what it takes; prepared to practice Your presence in all I do. Not to frightened back into sinful ways by the roar of lion, not to trip and fall at the sound of the wolves howling in the night. But walking firmly with eyes of faith in what ever You will for me. So Lord God see my commitment, hear my thoughts, I will not allow myself to go back, I will force myself to get up each time I fall, and most of all I will continue to die to myself so I may rise with You. This I say with love for My Lord Jesus Christ for because of His sorrowful passion I am able to sit with You now and share these things, and ask in His name Your help, blessings and forgiveness, Amen.

We must acknowledge that God is happiness itself!

— St. Severvinus

Acts 28:16-20, 30-31

16 And when we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier that guarded him. 17 After three days he called together the local leaders of the Jews; and when they had gathered, he said to them, "Brethren, though I had done nothing against the people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. 18 When they had examined me, they wished to set me at liberty, because there was no reason for the death penalty in my case. 19 But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar — though I had no charge to bring against my nation. 20 For this reason therefore I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain." 30 And he lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, 31 preaching the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ quite openly and unhindered.

Bible Study: [17-22] Paul’s first act in Rome is to learn from the leaders of the Jewish community whether the Jews of Jerusalem plan to pursue their case against him before the Roman jurisdiction. He is informed that no such plan is afoot, but that the Jews of Rome have heard the Christian teaching denounced. Paul’s offer to explain it to them is readily accepted. [30-31] Although the ending of Acts may seem to be abrupt, Luke has now completed his story with the establishment of Paul and the proclamation of Christianity in Rome. Paul’s confident and unhindered proclamation of the gospel in Rome forms the climax to the story whose outline was provided in Acts 1:8–"You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem . . . and to the ends of the earth."

Psalm 11:4-5, 7

4 The LORD is in his holy temple, the LORD’s throne is in heaven; his eyes behold, his eyelids test, the children of men. 5 The LORD tests the righteous and the wicked, and his soul hates him that loves violence. 7 For the LORD is righteous, he loves righteous deeds; the upright shall behold his face.

Bible Study: [Psalm 11] Of David – A song of trust. Though friends counsel flight to the mountain country (a traditional hideout) to escape trouble (Psalm 11:1-3), the innocent psalmist reaffirms confidence in God, who protects those who seek asylum in the temple (Psalm 11:4-7).

John 21:20-25

20 Peter turned and saw following them the disciple whom Jesus loved, who had lain close to his breast at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?" 21 When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, "Lord, what about this man?" 22 Jesus said to him, "If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!" 23 The saying spread abroad among the brethren that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, "If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?" 24 This is the disciple who is bearing witness to these things, and who has written these things; and we know that his testimony is true. 25 But there are also many other things which Jesus did; were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.

Bible Study: [1-23 There are many non-Johannine peculiarities in this chapter, some suggesting Lucan Greek style; yet this passage is closer to John than John 7:53-8:11. There are many Johannine features as well. Its closest parallels in the synoptic gospels are found in Luke 5:1-11 and Matthew 14:28-31. Perhaps the tradition was ultimately derived from John but preserved by some disciple other than the writer of the rest of the gospel. The appearances narrated seem to be independent of those in John 20. Even if a later addition, the chapter was added before publication of the gospel, for it appears in all manuscripts. [22] Until I come: a reference to the parousia. 13 [23] This whole scene takes on more significance if the disciple is already dead. The death of the apostolic generation caused problems in the church because of a belief that Jesus was to have returned first. Loss of faith sometimes resulted; cf 2 Peter 3:4. 14 [24] Who . . . has written them: this does not necessarily mean he wrote them with his own hand. The same expression is used in John 19:22 of Pilate, who certainly would not have written the inscription himself. We know: i.e., the Christian community; cf John 1:14, 16.

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Dear Lord God, today my Lord Jesus’ teachings are on my mind, O to be closer to You as He is in You and You in Him. Through the Hidden Gospels open my mind and heart, teach me new secrets on how to be closer to You. Once again the daily readings feed my mind and heart as if You are watching then directing me, as with the words of St Caesaria ‘There is no doctrine which could be better, more precious and more splendid than the text of the Gospel. Behold and retain what our Lord and Master, Christ, has taught by his words and accomplished by his deeds.’  O heavenly Father I do believe in the Trinity and the work of the Holy Spirit, I seek to know and understand the history of Your Church and ask for the wisdom and discernment to grow in Your truths by seeing through and past the personal interpretations of those who in an attempt to honor, praise and worship You twist Your words through translation or misunderstand Your intent. O give me spirit eyes and hears that only see and hear what You want me to know and understand. As I walk through this time of tribulation with eyes of faith seeking to grow in You and be a light to all those walking with me, help me, bless me with strength, energy, courage and knowledge to follow the path You have for me, to see Your will and to act on Your calling. I do seek You first, but need Your help and guidance, so in the name of Your Son and my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ I ask and pray for Your protection from the lion and wolves that seek out my soul, and Your blessings to enable me to serve You as You direct, Amen.

There is no doctrine which could be better, more precious and more splendid than the text of the Gospel. Behold and retain what our Lord and Master, Christ, has taught by his words and accomplished by his deeds.

— St. Caesaria the Younger to St. Richildis and St. Radegunde

Acts:25:13-21

13 Now when some days had passed, Agrippa the king and Berni’ce arrived at Caesare’a to welcome Festus. 14 And as they stayed there many days, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying, "There is a man left prisoner by Felix; 15 and when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews gave information about him, asking for sentence against him. 16 I answered them that it was not the custom of the Romans to give up any one before the accused met the accusers face to face, and had opportunity to make his defense concerning the charge laid against him. 17 When therefore they came together here, I made no delay, but on the next day took my seat on the tribunal and ordered the man to be brought in. 18 When the accusers stood up, they brought no charge in his case of such evils as I supposed; 19 but they had certain points of dispute with him about their own superstition and about one Jesus, who was dead, but whom Paul asserted to be alive. 20 Being at a loss how to investigate these questions, I asked whether he wished to go to Jerusalem and be tried there regarding them. 21 But when Paul had appealed to be kept in custody for the decision of the emperor, I commanded him to be held until I could send him to Caesar."

Bible Study: [13] King Agrippa and Bernice: brother and sister, children of Herod Agrippa I whose activities against the Jerusalem community are mentioned in Acts 12:1-19. Agrippa II was a petty ruler over small areas in northern Palestine and some villages in Perea. His influence on the Jewish population of Palestine was insignificant.

Psalm 103:1-2, 11-12, 19-20

1 Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy name! 2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, 11 For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; 12 as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us. 19 The LORD has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all. 20 Bless the LORD, O you his angels, you mighty ones who do his word, hearkening to the voice of his word!

Bible Study: [Psalm 103] Of David – The speaker in this hymn begins by praising God for personal benefits (Psalm 103:1-5), then moves on to God’s mercy toward all the people (Psalm 103:6-18). Even sin cannot destroy that mercy (Psalm 103:11-13), for the eternal God is well aware of the people’s human fragility (Psalm 103:14-18). The psalmist invites the heavenly beings to join in praise (Psalm 103:19-22).

John 21:15-19

15 When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Feed my lambs." 16 A second time he said to him, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Tend my sheep." 17 He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" And he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep. 18 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you girded yourself and walked where you would; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish to go." 19 (This he said to show by what death he was to glorify God.) And after this he said to him, "Follow me."

Bible Study: [15-17] In these three verses there is a remarkable variety of synonyms: two different Greek verbs for love (see the note on John 15:13); two verbs for feed/tend; two nouns for sheep; two verbs for know. But apparently there is no difference of meaning. The threefold confession of Peter is meant to counteract his earlier threefold denial (John 18:17, 25, 27). The First Vatican Council cited these verses in defining that Jesus after his resurrection gave Peter the jurisdiction of supreme shepherd and ruler over the whole flock. [15] More than these: probably "more than these disciples do" rather than "more than you love them" or "more than you love these things [fishing, etc.]." [18] Originally probably a proverb about old age, now used as a figurative reference to the crucifixion of Peter.

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Dear Lord God, in today’s Gospel the Lord Jesus pray’s for me, ‘O righteous Father, the world has not known thee, but I have known thee; and these know that thou hast sent me. I made known to them thy name, and I will make it known, that the love with which thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.’ In today’s reading Jesus tells Paul to ‘Take courage, for as you have testified about me at Jerusalem, so you must bear witness also at Rome.’ I wake today with Thee in mind faithful in Thy presence, hopeful that You will shorten my tribulation, focused on the need to reflect Thy love for me and my love for You in all I do and say this day. For just as Jesus prayed I know You were in Him, and He in You, thus through the Holy Spirit I too seek to be one with Him and You. I ask in Jesus name and pray for courage so that my witness will reflect my testimony bringing glory and honor to Thy name, presence and words. Let Thy will be done to and in me, and help me to be strong in faith, courageous in hope and gentle in love, Amen.

God has no need of your money, but the poor have. You give it to the poor, and God receives it.

— St. Augustine

Acts 22:30; 23:6-11

30 But on the morrow, desiring to know the real reason why the Jews accused him, he unbound him, and commanded the chief priests and all the council to meet, and he brought Paul down and set him before them.

6 But when Paul perceived that one part were Sad’ducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, "Brethren, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees; with respect to the hope and the resurrection of the dead I am on trial." 7 And when he had said this, a dissension arose between the Pharisees and the Sad’ducees; and the assembly was divided. 8 For the Sad’ducees say that there is no resurrection, nor angel, nor spirit; but the Pharisees acknowledge them all. 9 Then a great clamor arose; and some of the scribes of the Pharisees’ party stood up and contended, "We find nothing wrong in this man. What if a spirit or an angel spoke to him?" 10 And when the dissension became violent, the tribune, afraid that Paul would be torn in pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him by force from among them and bring him into the barracks. 11 The following night the Lord stood by him and said, "Take courage, for as you have testified about me at Jerusalem, so you must bear witness also at Rome."

Bible Study: [11] The occurrence of the vision of Christ consoling Paul and assuring him that he will be his witness in Rome prepares the reader for the final section of Acts: the journey of Paul and the word he preaches to Rome under the protection of the Romans.

Ps 16:1-2a and 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11

1 Preserve me, O God, for in thee I take refuge. 2 I say to the LORD, "Thou art my Lord; I have no good apart from thee." 5 The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup; thou holdest my lot. 7 I bless the LORD who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me. 8 I keep the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. 9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices; my body also dwells secure. 10 For thou dost not give me up to Sheol, or let thy godly one see the Pit. 11 Thou dost show me the path of life; in thy presence there is fullness of joy, in thy right hand are pleasures for evermore.

Bible Study: [Psalm 16] Of David – In the first section, the psalmist rejects the futile worship of false gods (Psalm 16:2-5), preferring Israel’s God (Psalm 16:1), the giver of the land (Psalm 16:6). The second section reflects on the wise and life-giving presence of God (Psalm 16:7-11).

Jn 17:20-26

20 "I do not pray for these only, but also for those who believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one; even as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. 22 The glory which thou hast given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and thou in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that thou hast sent me and hast loved them even as thou hast loved me. 24 Father, I desire that they also, whom thou hast given me, may be with me where I am, to behold my glory which thou hast given me in thy love for me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father, the world has not known thee, but I have known thee; and these know that thou hast sent me. 26 I made known to them thy name, and I will make it known, that the love with which thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them."

Bible Study: [1-26] Climax of the last discourse(s). Since the sixteenth century, this chapter has been called the "high priestly prayer" of Jesus. He speaks as intercessor, with words addressed directly to the Father and not to the disciples, who supposedly only overhear. Yet the prayer is one of petition, for immediate (John 17:6-19) and future (John 17:20-21) disciples. Many phrases reminiscent of the Lord’s Prayer occur. Although still in the world (John 17:13), Jesus looks on his earthly ministry as a thing of the past (John 17:4, 12). Whereas Jesus has up to this time stated that the disciples could follow him (John 13:33, 36), now he wishes them to be with him in union with the Father (John 17:12-14). [24] Where I am: Jesus prays for the believers ultimately to join him in heaven. Then they will not see his glory as in a mirror but clearly (2 Cor 3:18; 1 John 3:2). [26] I will make it known: through the Advocate.

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Dear Lord God, as Jesus prayed for me, sanctify me in Your truth; Thy word is truth and for the sake of His sorrowful passion, may I be consecrated in that truth with Him in union with You my Father. These things I ask and pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

I trust in Christ that he will enable me to undergo, in defense of his cause, the sharpest tortures you can inflict on my weak body.

— St. Theophanes

Acts 20:28-38

28 Take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God which he obtained with the blood of his own Son. 29 I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; 30 and from among your own selves will arise men speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. 31 Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish every one with tears. 32 And now I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified. 33 I coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel. 34 You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my necessities, and to those who were with me. 35 In all things I have shown you that by so toiling one must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, `It is more blessed to give than to receive.’" 36 And when he had spoken thus, he knelt down and prayed with them all. 37 And they all wept and embraced Paul and kissed him, 38 sorrowing most of all because of the word he had spoken, that they should see his face no more. And they brought him to the ship.

Bible Study: [16-35] Apparently aware of difficulties at Ephesus and neighboring areas, Paul calls the presbyters together at Miletus, about thirty miles from Ephesus. He admonishes them to guard the community against false prophets, sure to arise upon his departure (Acts 20:28-31). He concludes by citing a saying of Jesus (Acts 20:35) not recorded in the gospel tradition. Luke presents this farewell to the Ephesian presbyters as Paul’s last will and testament.

Psalm 68:29-30, 33-36

29 Because of thy temple at Jerusalem kings bear gifts to thee. 30 Rebuke the beasts that dwell among the reeds, the herd of bulls with the calves of the peoples. Trample under foot those who lust after tribute; scatter the peoples who delight in war. 33 to him who rides in the heavens, the ancient heavens; lo, he sends forth his voice, his mighty voice. 34 Ascribe power to God, whose majesty is over Israel, and his power is in the skies. 35 Terrible is God in his sanctuary, the God of Israel, he gives power and strength to his people. Blessed be God!

Bible Study: Of David – [Psalm 68] The psalm is extremely difficult because the Hebrew text is badly preserved and the ceremony that it describes is uncertain. The translation assumes the psalm accompanied the early autumn Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkoth), which included a prayer that the defeated enemies bring tribute to the temple (29-32); invitation for all kingdoms to praise Israel’s God (33-35).

John 17:11-19

11 And now I am no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to thee. Holy Father, keep them in thy name, which thou hast given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. 12 While I was with them, I kept them in thy name, which thou hast given me; I have guarded them, and none of them is lost but the son of perdition, that the scripture might be fulfilled. 13 But now I am coming to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given them thy word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 15 I do not pray that thou shouldst take them out of the world, but that thou shouldst keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them in the truth; thy word is truth. 18 As thou didst send me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be consecrated in truth.

Bible Study: [1-26] Climax of the last discourse(s). Since the sixteenth century, this chapter has been called the "high priestly prayer" of Jesus. He speaks as intercessor, with words addressed directly to the Father and not to the disciples, who supposedly only overhear. Yet the prayer is one of petition, for immediate (John 17:6-19) and future (John 17:20-21) disciples. Many phrases reminiscent of the Lord’s Prayer occur. Although still in the world (John 17:13), Jesus looks on his earthly ministry as a thing of the past (John 17:4, 12). Whereas Jesus has up to this time stated that the disciples could follow him (John 13:33, 36), now he wishes them to be with him in union with the Father (John 17:12-14).

/      raangulo

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Check out my blog at http://raagroup.blogspot.com/ where daily readings and more are posted daily.