Through the Holy Spirit

“Joseph, son of David, 

do not be afraid 

to take Mary your wife 

into your home. 

For it is through 

the Holy Spirit 

that this child has been 

conceived in her."

(Matthew 1:20)

The conception of Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit signifies the divine intervention in human history. It teaches us about the omnipotence of God, who can make the impossible possible. Joseph’s decision to take Mary as his wife, despite the unusual circumstances, demonstrates immense faith and obedience. He trusted in God’s message delivered through the angel, showing us the importance of faith in God’s plan, even when it doesn’t align with societal norms or our own understanding. The angel announced that Jesus would save His people from their sins. This brings a message of hope and salvation, reminding us of God’s merciful nature and His desire for reconciliation with humanity.

In history's fabric, divine threads intertwine,

Jesus' conception, a sign of the divine.

The Holy Spirit's work, a mystery unfurled,

God's omnipotence displayed to the world.

Making possible what seems impossible to all,

God's power and might, on it we can call.

Joseph, a man of faith, obedient and true,

Accepted God's plan, a perspective anew.

Despite the unusual, the unexpected, the strange,

Joseph trusted in God, embraced the change.

An angel's message, a divine revelation,

Joseph followed in faith, without hesitation.

The angel announced, with a voice clear and bright,

Jesus would save people from their plight.

A message of hope, of salvation so grand,

A testament to God's merciful hand.

In God's plan, even when it's concealed,

Through faith and obedience, it's revealed.

So let us remember, in every situation,

God's desire for reconciliation.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We acknowledge Your divine conception through the Holy Spirit, a testament to the divine intervention in human history. We are in awe of the omnipotence of God, who makes the impossible possible.

We admire Joseph's immense faith and obedience. Despite the unusual circumstances, he trusted in God’s message delivered through the angel. This teaches us about the importance of faith in God’s plan, even when it doesn’t align with societal norms or our own understanding.

We rejoice in the angel's announcement that You, Jesus, would save Your people from their sins. This brings us a message of hope and salvation, reminding us of God’s merciful nature and His desire for reconciliation with humanity.

In Your holy name, we pray, Amen.

Published:

March 19, 2024, 1:43 PM

Wisdom Breathes Life

Wisdom breathes life 

into her children 

and admonishes those 

who seek her. 

He who loves her loves life; 

those who seek her 

will be embraced 

by the Lord. 

(Sirach 4:11-12)

Wisdom is portrayed as a nurturing and protective guide. It seeks out those who are worthy of it and reveals itself to them. It serves as a guardian and a mentor to those who embrace it.

Loving wisdom brings honor and blessings. Those who love wisdom will be loved by God, and those who seek wisdom will find joy and receive guidance from it. Wisdom promises to bring peace and prosperity to those who pursue it diligently.

Wisdom tests those who seek it. There may be periods of hardship and discipline, which are necessary for growth and development. Enduring these tests with patience and faith will ultimately lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of wisdom.

Those who persist in their quest for wisdom will be rewarded. Wisdom brings treasures and benefits, including knowledge, understanding, and a righteous path in life. The rewards are not only material but also spiritual, leading to a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Humility and a willingness to learn are essential for gaining wisdom. Impatience and pride can hinder one's progress and prevent them from receiving the full benefits of wisdom.

In essence, Sirach encourages us to embrace wisdom with love, patience, and humility. It highlights the importance of enduring challenges and tests with faith, as these are part of the journey toward true wisdom and fulfillment.

A whisper soft, a guiding voice,

To seek her is a noble choice,

In her embrace, souls are risen.

She breathes life into the weary,

With gentle hands, she leads the way,

Through shadows dark, to light of day,

Her lessons sung, not harsh, nor dreary.

He who loves her loves his life,

In wisdom’s grace, his heart shall soar,

Through trials faced and battles bore,

In her presence, there’s no strife.

Those who seek her shall be blessed,

Embraced by Lord, in warmth divine,

In wisdom’s light, their spirits shine,

In her guidance, find their rest.

With every step, her counsel pure,

Admonishing, yet ever kind,

In seeking her, true peace they find,

In wisdom’s arms, forever sure.

For wisdom breathes and wisdom guides,

In her we trust, in her confide,

Her children safe, no need to hide,

In her embrace, all strife subsides.

Heavenly Father,

We come before You, grateful for the gift of wisdom that breathes life into Your children. We seek Your guidance and embrace the admonitions that lead us closer to You.

O Lord, grant us the love for wisdom that brings us to love life fully. May our hearts be ever eager to seek and cherish wisdom, knowing that in doing so, we are embraced by Your divine love and grace.

Help us to walk in the light of wisdom, to find joy in its teachings, and to persevere through the tests it may bring. May we remain humble and patient, always open to learning and growing in Your truth.

We thank You, Lord, for the promise of wisdom’s rewards—for the knowledge, understanding, and peace it imparts. Let Your wisdom guide our steps, comfort our souls, and lead us on the path of righteousness.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope

The Wisdom of Sirach

THE REWARDS OF WISDOM

Sirach 4:11-19

First Reading | Sirach 4:11-19

11 Wisdom breathes life into her children and admonishes those who seek her. 12 He who loves her loves life; those who seek her will be embraced by the Lord. 13 He who holds her fast inherits glory; wherever he dwells, the Lord bestows blessings. 14 Those who serve her serve the Holy One; those who love her the Lord loves. 15 He who obeys her judges nations; he who hearkens to her dwells in her inmost chambers. 16 If one trusts her, he will possess her; his descendants too will inherit her. 17 She walks with him as a stranger, and at first she puts him to the test; fear and dread she brings upon him and tries him with her discipline until she try him by her laws and trust his soul. 18 Then she comes back to bring him happiness and reveal her secrets to them and she will heap upon him treasures of knowledge and an understanding of justice. 19 But if he fails her, she will abandon him and deliver him into the hands of despoilers.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Filled with Wisdom and the Favor of God

The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; 

and the favor of God was upon him. 

(Luke 2:40)

Jesus came as a child, humble and meek, born in a manger, no place for the weak. But He was the Son of God, the Word made flesh, the hope of the world, the Savior of the oppressed. He grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. He learned from His parents, and obeyed the Father's plan. He amazed the teachers in the temple, with His understanding and His answers. He revealed the mysteries of the kingdom, with His parables and His wonders. He was full of grace and truth, and the Spirit without measure. He healed the sick and raised the dead, and gave the poor His treasure. He was tempted in every way, yet He did not sin. He suffered for our sake, and died to make us win. He rose from the grave, victorious and alive. He ascended to heaven, to prepare us a place and a bride. He is the King of kings, and the Lord of lords. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the one we adore

There was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty- four. She never left the temple, but worshipped night and day with fasting and prayer. And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem. When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him. (Luke 2:36-40)

Jesus came from heaven, not to be served, but to serve. He laid down His life, not to be spared, but to save. He obeyed the Father, not to please Himself, but to glorify. He fulfilled the Scriptures, not to prove Himself, but to testify. He faced the cross, not to avoid the pain, but to endure. He bore our sins, not to condemn us, but to forgive. He shed His blood, not to stain us, but to cleanse. He gave His Spirit, not to leave us, but to indwell. He conquered death, not to stay in the grave, but to rise. He showed His wounds, not to shame us, but to heal. He opened His arms, not to reject us, but to embrace. He gave His promise, not to forget us, but to return.

I am writing to you, children, because your sins have been forgiven for his name’s sake. I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have conquered the evil one. I write to you, children, because you know the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong and the word of God remains in you, and you have conquered the evil one. Do not love the world or the things of the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, sensual lust, enticement for the eyes, and a pretentious life, is not from the Father but is from the world. Yet the world and its enticement are passing away. But whoever does the will of God remains forever. (1 John 2:12-17)

Give to the Lord with a cheerful heart for He is the source of all you have. Give to the Lord with a grateful mind for He is the one who gives you life. Give to the Lord with a generous hand for He is the provider of your needs. Give to the Lord with a faithful spirit for He is the rewarder of your deeds. Give to the Lord with a joyful song for He is the maker of your voice. Give to the Lord with a humble soul for He is the reason for your rejoice.

Give to the Lord, you families of nations, give to the Lord glory and praise; give to the Lord the glory due his name! Bring gifts, and enter his courts; worship the Lord in holy attire. Tremble before him, all the earth. Say among the nations: the Lord is king. He has made the world firm, not to be moved; he governs the peoples with equity. (Psalm 96:7-8, 8-9, 10)

Lord, I want to do Your will but sometimes I don't know how. There are so many voices in the world that try to drown me out. Sometimes I'm afraid, there are so many challenges in life that make me doubt Your ways. Sometimes I'm too weak, there are so many temptations in the flesh that make me lose my streak. But then I hear Your gentle voice that whispers in my ear saying, "My child, I'm with you always, you have nothing to fear. I have a plan for your life that only I can fulfill. Trust in Me and follow Me and you will do My will." Fill me with Your wisdom O Lord and may Your favor be always upon me. I humbly give you my all in Jesus Name. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

THE PRESENTATION IN THE TEMPLE / THE RETURN TO NAZARETH

Luke 2:22-38 / 30-40

MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY

1 John 2:12-17

Fourth Book of Psalms 90-106

GOD OF THE UNIVERSE

Psalm 96:1-13

Published:

December 30, 2023, 3:45 PM

Wisdom's Deeds

"The Son of Man 

came eating and drinking, 

and they say, 'Here is 

a glutton and a drunkard, 

a friend of tax collectors 

and sinners.' 

But wisdom is 

proved right by her deeds." 

(Matthew 11:19)

Jesus broke societal stereotypes by engaging with those considered outcasts. This teaches us to challenge societal norms and prejudices, and to see the inherent worth in every individual.

True wisdom is demonstrated through actions. We should live out our beliefs and values through our actions, showing the truth and wisdom of our choices.

Even when we are doing the right thing, we may still face judgment and criticism from others. It's important to stay true to our values and mission despite what others may say. Let us reach out to those who are marginalized or judged by society, offering them love and acceptance.

Reflecting on these verses can inspire us to remain steadfast in our mission, practice inclusivity and compassion, demonstrate wisdom through our actions, and challenge societal stereotypes. 

The Son of Man, with open heart, 

Came eating, drinking, set apart. 

They called Him glutton, drunkard too, 

A friend to sinners, through and through.

But wisdom's deeds, they shine so bright, 

In actions pure, in love's own light. 

For in His ways, the truth is shown, 

A path of grace, by mercy known.

He dined with those the world disdained, 

In every heart, His love remained. 

For wisdom's proof is not in words, 

But in the deeds that love affords.

So let us learn from wisdom's call, 

To love, to serve, to lift us all. 

For in our actions, truth will rise, 

And wisdom's light will fill the skies.

Lord Jesus, 

You came eating and drinking, showing us the way of inclusivity and love. Though others judged and misunderstood, You remained steadfast in Your mission.

Grant us the wisdom to see beyond appearances, to embrace those who are marginalized and judged. Help us to prove wisdom through our deeds, reflecting Your compassion and grace in all we do.

May we follow Your example, being friends to those in need, and showing love to all, regardless of their past or status.

Guide us in our actions, so that we may live out Your teachings, and bring Your light to the world.

Amen.

Pericope:

IV: Opposition from Israel

JESUS' TESTIMONY TO JOHN

Matthew 11:16-19

Gospel Acclamation

The Lord will come; go out to meet him! He is the prince of peace.

Gospel | Matthew 11:16-19

16 Jesus said to the crowds: “To what shall I compare this generation? It is like children who sit in marketplaces and call to one another, 17 ‘We played the flute for you, but you did not dance, we sang a dirge but you did not mourn.’ 18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they said, ‘He is possessed by a demon.’ 19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking and they said, ‘Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is vindicated by her works.”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

WISDOM IS VINDICATED BY HER WORKS

The Son of Man came eating and drinking

and they said, 'Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard,

a friend of tax collectors and sinners.

But wisdom is vindicated by her works."

Matthew 11:-19

Some religious leaders who criticized and rejected Jesus' message and ministry are never satisfied with anything He says or do. Their human wisdom is based on worldly standards and expectations, which often judge by appearances and prejudices. Their negative perception is based on their own biases, stereotypes, or expectations. 

True wisdom is proven by the results or consequences of one’s actions. The word “wisdom” here refers to God’s plan of salvation, which is revealed through Jesus, the Son of Man. He is the embodiment of God’s wisdom, and those who believe in him are his children (John 1:12; 1 Corinthians 1:24, 30).

Divine wisdom is based on God’s revelation and grace, which often challenge and surprise human understanding. Jesus invites his listeners to trust in God’s wisdom, even if it seems foolish or scandalous to human wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:18-25; 2:6-16). He also warns them that they will be held accountable for their response to God’s wisdom, and that their actions will reveal their true character (Matthew 7:15-23; 12:33-37; Luke 6:43-45).

Jesus said to the crowds: “To what shall I compare this generation? It is like children who sit in marketplaces and call to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, but you did not dance, we sang a dirge but you did not mourn.’ For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they said, ‘He is possessed by a demon.’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking and they said, ‘Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is vindicated by her works.” (Matthew 11:16-19)

God is the source of wisdom and guidance for His people, and He wants them to follow His will and benefit from His blessings. God is faithful and gracious, even when His people are rebellious and ungrateful. He invites them to trust in Him and His plan for their salvation. Obey the Lord’s commandments and you shall enjoy peace and prosperity like a river that never runs dry. Your righteousness shall be like the waves of the sea, abundant and constant.

Thus says the Lord, your redeemer, the Holy One of Israel I, the Lord, your God, teach you what is for your good, and lead you on the way you should go. If you would hearken to my commandments, your prosperity would be like a river, and your vindication like the waves of the sea; Your descendants would be like the sand, and those born of your stock like its grains, their name never cut off or blotted out from my presence. (Isaiah 48:17-19)

There comes so much joy and satisfaction from obeying God’s commands and studying His word. A person who delights in the law of the Lord loves God’s word, reads it regularly, and applies it to his life.

Blessed the man who follows not the counsel of the wicked nor walks in the way of sinners, nor sits in the company of the insolent, but delights in the law of the Lord and meditates on his law day and night. He is like a tree planted near running water that yields its fruit in due season, and whose leaves never fade. Whatever he does, prospers. Not so the wicked, not so; they are like chaff which the wind drives away. For the Lord watches over the way of the just, but the way of the wicked vanishes. (Psalm 1:1-2, 3, 4, 6)

Jesus said, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished." (Matthew 5:17-18:)

Jesus fulfilled the law of the Lord by living a perfect life, dying for our sins, and rising from the dead. He also taught us the true meaning and purpose of the law, which is to love God and love our neighbor. He said in Matthew 22:37-40: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets."

Therefore, let us all delight in the law of the Lord by loving God and His word, and to loving others as He loves us. Let us follow the example and teachings of Jesus, who is the Word of God made flesh. Then we shall experience the joy and peace that comes from knowing and obeying God’s will.

Pericope:

IV: Opposition from Israel

JESUS' TESTIMONY TO JOHN

Matthew 11:16-19

I: The Lord's Glory in Israel's Liberation

EXHORTATIONS TO THE EXILES

Isaiah 48:1-22

First Book of Psalms 1-41

TRUE HAPPINESS IN GOD'S LAW

Psalm 1:1-6

Reflection Source:

Copilot with Bing Chat

Published:

December 15, 2023, 8:13 AM

December 14, 2007, 8:54

Thoughts of the Wise

God catches the wise 

in their own ruses, 

and again: 

The Lord knows 

the thoughts of the wise, 

that they are vain. 

(1 Corinthians 3:19-20)

True wisdom comes from God, not from human intellect or achievements. We are encouraged to adopt a posture of humility, recognizing that our understanding is limited compared to God’s infinite wisdom. This humility allows us to be open to God’s guidance and to grow spiritually. We should constantly evaluate our motives and actions, ensuring they align with God’s truth rather than societal norms or personal pride. Let us keep an eternal perspective, prioritizing spiritual growth and relationships over material possessions.

Instead of boasting about human leaders or personal accomplishments, we should boast in the Lord. This means giving glory to God for all that we have and all that we are, recognizing that every good thing comes from Him. Let us shift our focus from earthly possessions and achievements to our eternal inheritance in Christ, encouraging us to live with gratitude and purpose. 

Unity is essential for the health and growth of the church, fostering a community where everyone works together for the common good. We should work towards unity within our community, valuing each person and their contributions. Let us make it a habit to thank and praise God for His blessings and to share His goodness with others.

True Wisdom

True wisdom comes from God above, 

Not from human intellect or pride. 

In humility, we find His love, 

And in His guidance, we abide.

Our understanding, though sincere, 

Is limited, compared to His might. 

With open hearts, we draw near, 

To grow in faith, to seek His light.

Evaluate your motives, actions too, 

Align them with God’s eternal truth. 

Not with the norms society construes, 

But with the wisdom of our youth.

Boast not in leaders or in fame, 

But in the Lord, give glory due. 

For every blessing, every name, 

Is a gift from Him, pure and true.

Shift your focus from earthly gain, 

To the inheritance in Christ we hold. 

Live with gratitude, through joy and pain, 

With purpose, let your story unfold.

Unity within the church we seek, 

A community of love and grace. 

Each person’s value, unique and meek, 

Together, we find our place.

Thank and praise God for His care, 

Share His goodness, far and wide. 

In His blessings, we all share, 

In His love, we all abide.

Prayer for True Wisdom and Unity

Heavenly Father,

We come before You, acknowledging that true wisdom comes from You alone. Help us to recognize that our human intellect and achievements are limited compared to Your infinite wisdom. Grant us the humility to be open to Your guidance, allowing us to grow spiritually and align our motives and actions with Your truth.

Lord, teach us to keep an eternal perspective, prioritizing spiritual growth and relationships over material possessions. May we boast not in human leaders or personal accomplishments, but in You, giving glory to You for all that we have and all that we are. Remind us that every good thing comes from You, and help us to live with gratitude and purpose.

Father, we pray for unity within our church and community. Help us to work together for the common good, valuing each person and their contributions. May we make it a habit to thank and praise You for Your blessings and to share Your goodness with others.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

II. Disorders in the Corinthian Community, A. Divisions in the Church

THE ROLE OF GOD'S MINISTERS

1 Corinthians 3:1-23

First Reading | 1 Corinthians 3:18-23

18 Brothers and sisters: Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you considers himself wise in this age, let him become a fool, so as to become wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in the eyes of God, for it is written: *God catches the wise in their own ruses,* 20 and again: *The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.* 21 So let no one boast about human beings, for everything belongs to you, 22 Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or the present or the future: all belong to you, 23 and you to Christ, and Christ to God. 

Background:

1 Corinthians 3:18-23 is part of a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth. In this passage, Paul addresses the issue of wisdom and the tendency of the Corinthians to boast about their human leaders. 

Context and Background

The church in Corinth was struggling with divisions and conflicts. Members were aligning themselves with different leaders (Paul, Apollos, Cephas) and boasting about their wisdom and knowledge. Paul writes to correct these attitudes and to emphasize unity and humility.

Key Themes in 1 Corinthians 3:18-23

True Wisdom: Paul warns against self-deception and the pursuit of worldly wisdom. He encourages the Corinthians to become “fools” in the eyes of the world so that they may become truly wise in God’s eyes (v. 18-19).

Futility of Human Wisdom: Paul quotes Scripture to show that God considers the wisdom of this world to be foolishness (v. 19-20).

Boasting in God, Not Men: Paul urges the Corinthians to stop boasting about human leaders. He reminds them that all things belong to them in Christ, and ultimately, they belong to God (v. 21-23).

Practical Application

Paul’s message encourages believers to seek wisdom from God rather than relying on human understanding. It also calls for humility and unity within the church, recognizing that all believers are part of God’s family and should not be divided by allegiance to different leaders.

Learning Lessons:

1. Humility in Wisdom. Paul emphasizes that true wisdom comes from God, not from human intellect or achievements. We are encouraged to adopt a posture of humility, recognizing that our understanding is limited compared to God’s infinite wisdom. This humility allows us to be open to God’s guidance and to grow spiritually.

2. Avoiding Self-Deception. Paul warns against self-deception, particularly the belief that we are wise by worldly standards. This serves as a reminder to constantly evaluate our motives and actions, ensuring they align with God’s truth rather than societal norms or personal pride.

3. Unity in Christ. The passage calls for unity among believers, urging them to stop boasting about human leaders and to recognize that all things belong to them in Christ. This unity is essential for the health and growth of the church, fostering a community where everyone works together for the common good.

4. Perspective on Possessions. Paul reminds the Corinthians that everything belongs to them in Christ, and ultimately, they belong to God. This perspective shifts our focus from earthly possessions and achievements to our eternal inheritance in Christ, encouraging us to live with gratitude and purpose.

5. Boasting in the Lord. Instead of boasting about human leaders or personal accomplishments, Paul directs us to boast in the Lord. This means giving glory to God for all that we have and all that we are, recognizing that every good thing comes from Him.

Practical Takeaways

Seek God’s Wisdom: Regularly pray for wisdom and discernment, asking God to guide your thoughts and decisions.

Cultivate Humility: Practice humility by acknowledging your limitations and relying on God’s strength and wisdom.

Promote Unity: Work towards unity within your community, valuing each person and their contributions.

Focus on Eternity: Keep an eternal perspective, prioritizing spiritual growth and relationships over material possessions.

Glorify God: Make it a habit to thank and praise God for His blessings and to share His goodness with others.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

WISDOM IS CHRIST IN YOU

"I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking 

that all your adversaries will be powerless 

to resist or refute."

Luke 21:15

He is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, whom God made our wisdom, our righteousness and sanctification and redemption (1 Cor 1:30). Who has known the mind of the Lord, so as to counsel him? But we have the mind of Christ (1 Cor 2:16).

God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise, God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong, God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are,  so that no human being might boast in the presence of God (1 Cor 1:27-29).

Father God, you alone I boast of in Christ Jesus. You have given me everything and continue to give all I need in order to live in wisdom, righteousness, calling and purpose.

In Jesus Name, I pray that I may be able to surpass all worldly standards of living and achieve even more greater heights in my profession and career so that I can further boast of my life in you. I give you glory and praise now and forever. Amen.

Pericope:
THE COMING PERSECUTION - Luke 21:12-19
PARADOX OF THE CROSS - 1 Corinthians 1:18-30
THE TRUE WISDOM - 1 Corinthians 2:6-16

Published: 

March 08, 2015, 8:06AM
September 01, 2014. 8:28AM
November 27, 2013, 6:34AM
August 28, 2010, 6:49AM