The Advocate

 

Gospel

John 14:15-21

15 Jesus said to his disciples: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always, 17 the Spirit of truth, which the world cannot accept, because it neither sees nor knows him. But you know him, because it remains with you, and will be in you. 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you. 19 In a little while the world will no longer see me, but you will see me, because I live and you will live. 20 On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me and I in you. 21 Whoever has my commandments and observes them is the one who loves me. And whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him, and reveal myself to him.”

Introduction

This passage is part of Jesus’ farewell discourse—His tender conversation with the disciples before His arrest. In these verses, Jesus reveals the intimate relationship between love, obedience, the Holy Spirit, and His abiding presence. He assures His followers that although He will soon depart physically, He will never leave them alone. Instead, He promises the Helper, the Spirit of Truth, who will dwell with them and in them.

Historical Background

This passage takes place during the Last Supper, within the upper room in Jerusalem. The disciples were troubled—Jesus had spoken of betrayal, suffering, and His imminent departure. Their hearts were filled with fear and uncertainty.

In this emotional moment, Jesus comforts them by revealing a deeper spiritual reality. His departure is not abandonment. His love continues through the Holy Spirit. His followers will share in His life and relationship with the Father.

This teaching prepares the early Church for life after the resurrection and ascension—life empowered by the Spirit.

Theological Context

Love is not merely emotion—it is demonstrated through a life aligned with Christ’s teachings. Jesus introduces the Paraklētos—the Helper, Advocate, Comforter. The Spirit will teach, guide, strengthen, remind, and empower. This marks the beginning of the Spirit-filled life of believers.

The Indwelling Presence of God. Jesus promises that, “I will not leave you orphans, I will come to you, We will make our home with you.” This reveals the mystery of the Trinity at work in the believer’s heart. Our spiritual life flows from His resurrection life.

Learning Lessons

True love for Jesus is shown through obedience. Not perfection, but a sincere desire to follow Him. The Holy Spirit is God’s gift of companionship. We are never alone—He guides, comforts, and empowers. His Spirit assures us of His nearness.

The Christian life is relational, not ritualistic. Father, Son, and Spirit invite us into divine fellowship. We live because Christ lives. Our hope, strength, and identity are rooted in His resurrection.

Reflection for the Day

As you begin this new day, hear Jesus’ gentle words, “I will not leave you orphans.”

There may be moments when life feels heavy—when uncertainty, fear, or loneliness tries to overwhelm you. But Jesus reminds you that His Spirit lives within you. You are never abandoned. You are never forgotten.

Let your love for Christ be expressed today through simple obedience—small acts of faithfulness, kindness, forgiveness, and trust. And remember, because He lives, you can face today with courage, peace, and confidence.

Poem

Spirit of Truth, abide in me,

A flame that burns eternally.

When shadows rise and fears appear,

Your gentle whisper calms my fear.

Not orphaned, lost, nor left behind—

Your presence dwells within my mind.

O Lord of love, my strength, my guide,

Forever keep me by Your side.

Prayer 

Lord Jesus Christ,

Thank You for Your promise that You will never leave me nor forsake me. Fill my heart today with the Holy Spirit—my Helper, my Comforter, my Guide. Teach me to love You through obedience, to walk in Your truth, and to trust in Your presence within me.

When I feel weak, strengthen me. When I feel alone, remind me that You are near. When I am uncertain, lead me by Your Spirit. Because You live, I also live. I entrust this day to You, my Savior, my Lord, and my ever-present Friend.

Amen.

Pericope

III: The Book of Glory

THE ADVOCATE

John 14:15-31

Gospel Acclamation

Whoever loves me will keep my word, says the Lord, and my Father will love him and we will come to him.

Through the Holy Spirit

Gospel

Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24

16 Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ. 18 Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. 19 Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. 20 Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “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. 21 She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” 24 When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took his wife into his home.

Introduction

Matthew’s Gospel introduces us to Joseph not through long speeches or dramatic actions, but through quiet strength, deep righteousness, and courageous obedience. 

In today’s passage, we witness one of the most pivotal moments in salvation history—God revealing His plan to Joseph and inviting him to participate in the mystery of the Incarnation. Joseph’s response becomes a model of faith for every believer who is called to trust God even when the path is unclear.

Historical Background

To appreciate Joseph’s dilemma, we must understand the cultural world he lived in. Betrothal in Jewish tradition was legally binding—stronger than modern engagement. Breaking it required a formal divorce. 

A woman found pregnant before living with her husband could face severe consequences, including public shame or even death under Levitical law. Joseph, described as a “righteous man”, sought a path that upheld the law yet protected Mary from harm.

Into this tense and fragile moment, God intervenes through a dream, revealing that Mary’s child is conceived “through the Holy Spirit” and entrusting Joseph with the sacred responsibility of naming the child—an act that legally makes him the earthly father of Jesus.

 Theological Context

The Divine Initiative. God takes the first step. Joseph does not discover the truth on his own; it is revealed to him. Salvation is always God reaching out to humanity.

Joseph’s Obedience as Participation in Salvation. Joseph’s “yes” is not passive. By taking Mary into his home and naming Jesus, he becomes an essential human instrument in God’s plan. His obedience safeguards the Holy Family and fulfills prophecy.

Jesus’ Mission Revealed Early. The angel declares, “You are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” The name Jesus (Yeshua) means “God saves.”  Even before His birth, His mission is clear—He comes as Savior.

The Role of Dreams in Divine Revelation. Like his Old Testament namesake, Joseph the Dreamer, God speaks to him in dreams. This highlights Joseph’s spiritual sensitivity and openness to God’s voice.

Learning Lessons

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.

Reflection for the Day

Joseph stands at the crossroads of fear and faith. He faces a situation that could shatter his future, his reputation, and his understanding of God’s plan. Yet he chooses compassion over condemnation, trust over suspicion, and obedience over self-protection

When the angel says, “Do not be afraid,” Joseph allows God’s word to reshape his entire life. He wakes up and acts immediately—no hesitation, no bargaining, no delay. His silent obedience speaks louder than any recorded words.

There are moments when God’s plans disrupt our expectations. We may feel confused, afraid, or unprepared. Joseph reminds us that holiness is often found not in extraordinary deeds but in the quiet courage to trust God in the ordinary and the uncertain.

Where is God inviting you to trust Him more deeply today—perhaps in a situation that feels unclear, uncomfortable, or beyond your control?

Poem

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.

Prayer

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.

Pericope

I: The Infancy Narrative

THE GENEALOGY OF JESUS / THE BIRTH OF JESUS

Matthew 1:17 / 18-25

Gospel Acclamation

Blessed are those who dwell in your house, O Lord; they never cease to praise you.

Published:

March 19, 2025, 6:20 AM

March 19, 2024, 1:43 PM

Creation is Creativity in Action

Meditate on the word CREATION and you shall come across the words CREATIVITY and ACTION.

Creativity in Action is making something out of nothing. Something that is born out of a passion or emotion. It is always something that is reflective upon the Creator because it is a part of him and identifies itself with him.

Anything a Creator makes he loves. For what he hates, he would not have fashioned. This is why a man continues to exist until today because God had willed and preserved him to remain. Other creatures have met their extinction. But men continue to be spared because of God's love for them. The Creator sees himself in them for his own spirit gives them life. It is only incumbent upon us therefore, to always give praises to God as our Creator and bless his name forever! We continue to exist only because of his grace, mercy and love.

Creativity in Action has brought us to Creation, a divine work from God that was tailored fit for perfection. But the sin of man has brought death and destruction which can only be restored by way of salvation.

Salvation only comes from Christ whose death and resurrection has brought forth reconciliation as fulfillment of His Mission.

God has always been good and compassionate to us as a Father accepting us as his own children in Christ, although in reality and truth, we are just one among the infinite creatures he created in the universe.

What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done; and there is nothing new under the sun. (Ecclesiastes 1:9-10)

Is there really something new in this day and age? 

God is the source of all creation and only him can make things new. Any scientific breakthrough in this day and age can not be branded as new but more of a discovery. Advancement in science and technology is nothing more than discovering the unknown which has already been created way back in time by God.

Man is mistaken if he thinks of discrediting God as the one who created all things. There is nothing in this world that he did not create nor was it not foretold in the prophecies of old. All men were by nature foolish who were in ignorance of God, and who from the good things seen did not succeed in knowing him who is, and from studying the works did not discern the artisan. (Wisdom 13:1)

Let them know how far more excellent is the Lord than these; for the original source of beauty fashioned them. Or if they were struck by their might and energy, let them from these things realize how much more powerful is He who made them.For from the greatness and the beauty of created things their original author, by analogy, is seen. (Wisdom 13:3-5)

If they so far succeeded in knowledge that they could speculate about the world, how did they not more quickly find its Lord? ((Wisdom 13:9)




Published:

November 16, 2023, 7:25 AM

November 16, 2017, 7:03 AM
November 12, 2015, 7:00 AM
September 23, 2010 - Thursday
November 07, 2007, 9:23 AM

“Children in the Marketplace”

 

Gospel

Luke 7:31-35

31 Jesus said to the crowds: “To what shall I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? 32 They are like children who sit in the marketplace and call to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, but you did not dance. We sang a dirge, but you did not weep.’ 33 For John the Baptist came neither eating food nor drinking wine, and you said, ‘He is possessed by a demon.’ 34 The Son of Man came eating and drinking and you said, ‘Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ 35 But wisdom is vindicated by all her children.”

Historical Background

Luke’s Gospel was written around 80–90 CE, during a time of growing tension between early Christians and Jewish religious authorities. This passage falls within a broader section where Jesus is responding to skepticism and rejection from the Pharisees and legal experts.

Jesus is speaking to a crowd that includes both religious leaders and common people in Galilee. John the Baptist had just sent messengers to ask Jesus if He was the Messiah. Jesus affirms John’s role and then critiques the generation’s refusal to accept either John or Himself.

The parable of children in the marketplace reflects common street scenes—children playing music and expecting others to respond. Jesus uses this to illustrate the fickleness and stubbornness of the people.

Theological Context

This passage is a parable of rejection. Jesus contrasts the ascetic lifestyle of John the Baptist with His own more socially engaged ministry. Both were criticized: John was called demon-possessed for his strictness. Jesus was labeled a glutton and drunkard for His openness to sinners.

The final line—“Yet wisdom is justified by all her children”—means that true wisdom is revealed in the fruit it bears. It’s a call to discernment: don’t judge by appearances, but by outcomes.

Key theological themes: Rejection of divine messengers: People resist truth when it doesn’t fit their expectations. God’s wisdom transcends human judgment. The Kingdom of God is revealed through both repentance and grace.

Learning Lessons

Don’t box God in, He speaks through different voices—John’s severity and Jesus’ compassion. Beware of spiritual stubbornness. Wisdom is proven by its fruit, look at the lives transformed, not just the methods used. Be open to uncomfortable truth. Sometimes God’s message challenges our comfort zones.

“Children in the Marketplace”

We played the flute, but none would dance,  

We sang a dirge, no mournful glance.  

Two voices came, both bold and true—  

One robed in fire, one bathed in dew.

John cried out in desert air,  

“Repent! The axe is laid and bare.”  

But they scoffed and turned aside,  

“Too wild, too strange,” they all replied.

Then Jesus came with wine and bread,  

He healed the sick, raised up the dead.  

But they murmured, “He’s too free,  

A friend of sin and revelry.”

Yet wisdom walks where love has led,  

In broken hearts and lives once dead.  

She dances still in humble grace,  

And weeps where mercy finds its place.

Lord Jesus,

You came with joy and sorrow, with laughter and lament, and still we struggle to hear Your voice when it doesn’t match our expectations.

Forgive us for rejecting Your messengers— those who speak with fire, and those who whisper with grace. Teach us to be children of wisdom, to respond with open hearts whether You come in silence or song. Let us not be like those in the marketplace, unmoved by Your music, unbroken by Your mourning. Help us to see You in every voice that calls us to truth, and to follow You with childlike faith and grown-up courage.

Amen.

Pericope:

IV: The Ministry in Galilee

JESUS TESTIMONY TO JOHN

Luke 7:24-35

Gospel Acclamation

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life, you have the words of everlasting life. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

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