Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Bảy Tuần 26 TN Luke 10:17-24
Qua bài Tin Mừng hôm nay cho chúng ta thấy là Chúa Giêsu đã quan phòng và ban cho các môn đệ của Ngài sức mạnh tinh linh để họ đã có thể chu toàn nhiệm vụ của họ một cách thành công. Thật vậy, ngay cả Sa-tan cũng bị ném ngã trước sức mạnh của thiên Chúa qua các việc của họ. Và đây cũng là một phần quan trọng cho việc bắt đầu sứ mệnh của Chúa Giêsu. Các môn đệ đã quá vui mừng vì những việc họ đã làm, nhưng Chúa Giêsu đã cảnh cáo họ rằng những quyền hạn và sức mạnh mà Chúa trao cho họ không quan trọng cho bằng là việc tên của họ đã được ghi trên Nước trời.
Sức mạnh và những điều đã được tiết lộ mà Chúa ban cho họ không phải là phần thưởng cho sự thông minh của họ, hay thành tích là việc của họ. Nhưng họ đã được Chúa ban cho là vì sự cởi mở tâm hồn, lòng trí của họ và lòng ước muốn của họ để làm theo ý của Thiên Chúa.
Có bao giờ chúng ta dừng lại ít phút mỗi ngày để suy ngẩm và cảm ơn Chúa vì tất cả những gì mà Ngài đã ban cho chúng ta, Ngài đã mời gọi chúng ta và giúp chúng ta được trở nên một phần trong Nước Trời của Ngài. Chúng ta có thể nhìn thấy một vinh dự tuyệt vời đó là việc có thể nhận ra được sự mặc khải của Chúa Thánh Thần để giúp chúng ta biết được cảm ứng của Thiên Chúa trong tâm hồn chúng ta. Xin Thiên Chúa ban muôn vàn Ân sũng và Hồng ân của Ngài xuống nơi Chúng con, để chúng con được mạnh dạn trong sự thương yêu và phục vụ Chúa mà không có tính toán, so đo. Chúng con cảm ta Chúa là Cha của chúng con đã viết tên của chúng con hôm nay trong cuốn sách hàng sống ờ trên Trời.
Sat 26th Week Ordinary Time
Jesus gave the seventy-two a lot of spiritual power for their mission. Indeed, even Satan was thrown down, for the critical part of Jesus' mission had arrived. Some of them were overly impressed with themselves so Jesus warned them that these powers were nothing far more important was the fact that their names were written in heaven. The power that they were given and the things that were revealed to them were not rewards for cleverness, education, or achievement. They were given because of the openness of their hearts and minds and their desire to do the will of God. Jesus is our teacher and revealer and it is to him we turn for enlightenment and the gift of the spirit. We are too received the Baptism from Jesus, We are all capable of doing great things in the Lord.
Do we ever stop to reflect and thank God for having invited us to be part of his kingdom? Can we see what a wonderful privilege is available to us, to receive the Spirit's revelation and to know God's touch on our hearts? We are not invited just to be a servant of God, wielding His power for the sake of His kingdom. God wants to make us his children. He wants to shower us with His affection as any father would care for his children.
Having a personal relationship with God, and the promise of being with Him forever, this is our heritage as disciples of Jesus.
May the realization of God's gifts make us bold in loving and serving Him without counting the cost. Let us thank our Father today for writing our name in the book of life.
Opening Prayer: Lord, here I am—teach me to pray. You bless those who believe without seeing—help my unbelief! I want to love and be loved by you, so I humbly ask you to show me your love in this time of prayer.
Encountering Christ:
1. Christ Gives Everything: Just a few days ago in the scriptures, Christ sent his disciples out to prepare the way for him “like lambs among wolves.” They must have been scared, but their experience of Christ’s love for them had driven them to go out anyway. Now, as they came back full of amazement at all they were able to accomplish, they realized that their faith in Christ was well-founded. Christ will always ask us for everything (he is God, after all), but the more we give the more we realize that he takes nothing away, but transforms whatever we give into a greater blessing for us and the world. The apostles did not know what to expect as they set off down the dusty roads of Galilee. All they knew was that they had never met anyone like Christ. He had filled them with a love and confidence they had never experienced, and he wanted them to give that same experience to their countrymen. He told them they were to cure illnesses, but imagine their wonder the first time they extended their hands over a sick man and raised him in the name of Christ! If they hadn’t obeyed, hadn’t trusted, hadn’t set out, hadn’t met the sick, hadn’t raised their hands in healing, they might have missed the ecstasy of giving glory to God by bringing his love and grace to others. We never know what Christ is going to do with us. All he asks is that we trust and obey.
2. Rejoice: Although Christ did not hide from his disciples that they were going to do great things, he wanted them to realize that their greatest gift was not what they accomplished (healing lepers), but who they were (children of God). What an immense gift it is that we have been created, and what an even greater gift that there is a place prepared for us in heaven! We all long for a place to call home, for a place of safety where we are unconditionally loved. Christ has already prepared this place for us, and it is waiting for us after our little pilgrimage here on Earth ends. Christ is asking his disciples, and asking us, to keep our faith and confidence in his promise of eternal life, not in worldly success. When that time comes, we draw consolation from Christ’s promise: “Your names are written in heaven.”
3. “I Praise You, Father”: There are few times in the Gospels when it explicitly says that Christ rejoiced, and this is one of them. What could Christ have seen in these moments on Earth, so imperfect compared to Heaven, to make him rejoice? The disciples did not let the miracles Christ did through them go to their heads, and their humility filled Christ with joy! Christ loves a humble, childlike heart. When we strive to do the Lord’s will and ask him to bless our successes, along with our weakness, our failures, and imperfections, he rejoices.
Conversing with Christ: Lord, thank you for revealing your love to me. I want to make you smile, so help me to be more humble, more childlike, more simple. I know you have a place for me in heaven—help me to keep my eyes on that prize, and never let that star be covered by the clouds of the world or my own selfishness.
Resolution: Lord, today by your grace I will give some witness of my faith, be it in word, deed, or example.
REFLECTION Saturday 26th Ordinary Time
Our study and scholarship will accomplish very little without the gift of the Spirit who enlightens us about the truths of God. God the Father actually hides the truth from the proud scholar, while he chooses to reveal mystical secrets of heaven to the humble. And this is the difference: knowledge inflates, love builds. Because of this humble and childlike faith the disciples did great things in Jesus' name. They exclaim: "Master, even the demons are subject to us in your name."
He told them to cure the sick and to preach and they took him at his word. Jesus said it, they believed it. Because of this simple acceptance of Jesus' words, great miracles were worked through simple men of humble upbringing. But Jesus warns them not to rejoice that they worked miracles, but to rejoice because their names were written in heaven. It is not enough to work miracles in Jesus' name. We must know him so well that we develop a personal relationship with him. Do we really know Jesus? Is our knowledge of Jesus from various
religious information, or is it personal and loving, bringing rest and respite to the dark corners of our lives? If we want to work for Jesus, we must first know Jesus. If we want to do miracles in his name, we must first receive him with the simplicity of a child.
Wednesday, September 30, 2020
Suy Niệm Bài đọc thứ Sáu Tuần 26 Thừơng Niên
Suy Niệm Bài đọc thứ Sáu Tuần 26 Thừơng Niên
Qua bài Tin Mừng chúng ta được nghe đến những thành phố Chorazin và Bethsaida là những thành phố đông đúc dân chúng, nhiều người đã được nhìn thấy Chúa được nghe những lời giảng dạy và chứng kiến những điều huyền diệu, phép lạ mà Chúa Giêsu đã thực hiện ở đây; Nhưng họ vẫn không mấy ấn tượng và không chịu thay đổi cách sống của họ, Vì thế Chúa Giêsu đã phải thốt ra lời nguyền rủa là : “họ sẽ không có được một tương lai hạnh phúc”, và ngay cả vùng Capernaum cũng đã bị chỉ trích. Họ tự đánh giá cao chính bản thân của họ, nhưng họ không chịu nghe lời răn bảo của Chúa mà ăn năn hay tỏ ra được sự xám hối, Họ từ chối không chấp nhận Chúa Giê-su khi Ngài đi qua và giảng dạy trên các đường phố của họ, Họ đã chối từ Thiên Chúa.
Phần chúng ta, nếu chúng ta tự xét mình, chắc chắn cũng có lúc nào đó trong cuộc sống chúng ta cũng có những hành động như những người này, vì chúng ta đã có những động thái tốt! Nhưng điều quan trọng là chúng ta phải biết tự sửa mình là không được tự mãn hay hoài nghi, nhưng luôn luôn cởi mở và mong muốn được nghe những lời giảng dạy về Phúc âm để tự phát triển tâm linh. Để giữ được một mối quan hệ tốt với Chúa Giêsu là chúng ta phải biết thay đổi. Lạy Chúa, Xin cho Lời Chúa có thể biến đổi chúng con và cuộc sống của chúng con.
Friday 26th Ordinary Time
The towns of Chorazin and Bethsaida had seen great things done in their midst; the teaching and the miracles of Jesus. But they remain unimpressed and unwilling to change their ways. Jesus uttered a warning; they did not have a happy future. Even Capernaum was criticized; they thought highly of themselves but did not show the fruits of repentance. To reject Jesus when he walked and taught in their streets was the same as rejecting God. Not a good move! It is important not to be complacent or cynical, but always open and eager to be taught and to grow spiritually. A relationship with Jesus means change.
Lord, may Your word transform me.
Introductory Prayer: Father in heaven, thank you for giving me another day to grow in love for you, another day to move ahead in my spiritual life, another day to pray for the souls closest to me. I want only to please you during this brief time of prayer.
Petition: Lord, grant me the grace of childlike simplicity.
Encountering Christ:
1. Turning the Tables: The disciples are curious about the Kingdom of Heaven, and their curiosity has a tinge of self-interest. They want to know how to get ahead in the Kingdom. Their very question belies a misunderstanding of Christ. The Kingdom, among other things, is reflected in the Church on earth. And the Church, being universal, is a kind of family that takes in all mankind. If ever we ask, “Who is the greatest in our family?” we can be sure that it is the wrong kind of question. The more appropriate question is: “How can I be a better member of the family? How can I be a better husband? A better wife? A better son or daughter or brother or sister?” That is the question Christ wants us to ask ourselves.
2. Child's Play: We must not think that Christ had a naive notion of children as little angels who never do wrong. So why does Christ hold up children as models for the rest of us? In part, it is their simplicity, their tendency to trust. They might not understand why a parent tells them something, but they likely will accept it because they realize it comes from someone who loves them. The spiritual life requires that same kind of trust. We might not understand completely why God asks us to do something, but if there's a basic trust and openness to him, it is easier to follow his commands. Many people, unfortunately, squander what should be the most productive years of their lives because they doubt God and his Church. They complicate things, only to find years later the wisdom of what Our Lord was trying to tell them. By then, their faults can be forgiven, but not undone. Once a vase is broken, it can be fixed, but it will never be the same as if it had never broken. Am I saying no to God because of a lack of trust?
3. Angelic Aid: Prayers to guardian angels used to be popular with Catholics. We should pray to them because each of us has one. "Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life," writes St. Basil (see Catechism of the Catholic Church, 336). Our angel reflects God's loving providence for our welfare and protection. The world is a moral minefield, waiting for us to make the wrong step. Our angel helps us make it through this valley of tears. Do I ever think to pray to my angel?
Conversation with Christ: The simplicity of children can make me look foolish by comparison. I believe in you and trust you, Lord. Help me to translate that trust into serenity and simplicity. Let me accept the crosses of daily life with calmness, seeing your loving designs behind them.
Resolution: I will say “yes” to the next difficult thing someone asks of me, so long as it is something morally right.
Reflection
In today's Gospel Jesus accuses the people of Chorazin and Bethsaida for their hardness of heart, for their indifference to the Gospel. The Good News had reached them but they did not respond. Great wonders had been done among them but they were not convinced. To have the Good News presented to us is indeed a blessing from God. It is a privilege. The Good News is the word of God addressed to us. While there are millions of people who have accepted the Gospel message, there are also quite a lot of people who, like the people of Capernaum, have rejected it. Others have heard Christ's message but failed to think deeply on it; they are indifferent about it. They just don't want to think about sin and so they have no interest in thinking about redemption. As Christians, we have been blessed with the Good News. Do we really try to learn all we can about it? To have heard God's word is a great responsibility. A person will be judged according to what he has learned. When a person receives God's word of wisdom - the Good News of Salvation, it becomes for that person a gift, a great glory. But each word of God that has been received carries with it a responsibility. As Christians we need to give witness to his word.
Qua bài Tin Mừng chúng ta được nghe đến những thành phố Chorazin và Bethsaida là những thành phố đông đúc dân chúng, nhiều người đã được nhìn thấy Chúa được nghe những lời giảng dạy và chứng kiến những điều huyền diệu, phép lạ mà Chúa Giêsu đã thực hiện ở đây; Nhưng họ vẫn không mấy ấn tượng và không chịu thay đổi cách sống của họ, Vì thế Chúa Giêsu đã phải thốt ra lời nguyền rủa là : “họ sẽ không có được một tương lai hạnh phúc”, và ngay cả vùng Capernaum cũng đã bị chỉ trích. Họ tự đánh giá cao chính bản thân của họ, nhưng họ không chịu nghe lời răn bảo của Chúa mà ăn năn hay tỏ ra được sự xám hối, Họ từ chối không chấp nhận Chúa Giê-su khi Ngài đi qua và giảng dạy trên các đường phố của họ, Họ đã chối từ Thiên Chúa.
Phần chúng ta, nếu chúng ta tự xét mình, chắc chắn cũng có lúc nào đó trong cuộc sống chúng ta cũng có những hành động như những người này, vì chúng ta đã có những động thái tốt! Nhưng điều quan trọng là chúng ta phải biết tự sửa mình là không được tự mãn hay hoài nghi, nhưng luôn luôn cởi mở và mong muốn được nghe những lời giảng dạy về Phúc âm để tự phát triển tâm linh. Để giữ được một mối quan hệ tốt với Chúa Giêsu là chúng ta phải biết thay đổi. Lạy Chúa, Xin cho Lời Chúa có thể biến đổi chúng con và cuộc sống của chúng con.
Friday 26th Ordinary Time
The towns of Chorazin and Bethsaida had seen great things done in their midst; the teaching and the miracles of Jesus. But they remain unimpressed and unwilling to change their ways. Jesus uttered a warning; they did not have a happy future. Even Capernaum was criticized; they thought highly of themselves but did not show the fruits of repentance. To reject Jesus when he walked and taught in their streets was the same as rejecting God. Not a good move! It is important not to be complacent or cynical, but always open and eager to be taught and to grow spiritually. A relationship with Jesus means change.
Lord, may Your word transform me.
Introductory Prayer: Father in heaven, thank you for giving me another day to grow in love for you, another day to move ahead in my spiritual life, another day to pray for the souls closest to me. I want only to please you during this brief time of prayer.
Petition: Lord, grant me the grace of childlike simplicity.
Encountering Christ:
1. Turning the Tables: The disciples are curious about the Kingdom of Heaven, and their curiosity has a tinge of self-interest. They want to know how to get ahead in the Kingdom. Their very question belies a misunderstanding of Christ. The Kingdom, among other things, is reflected in the Church on earth. And the Church, being universal, is a kind of family that takes in all mankind. If ever we ask, “Who is the greatest in our family?” we can be sure that it is the wrong kind of question. The more appropriate question is: “How can I be a better member of the family? How can I be a better husband? A better wife? A better son or daughter or brother or sister?” That is the question Christ wants us to ask ourselves.
2. Child's Play: We must not think that Christ had a naive notion of children as little angels who never do wrong. So why does Christ hold up children as models for the rest of us? In part, it is their simplicity, their tendency to trust. They might not understand why a parent tells them something, but they likely will accept it because they realize it comes from someone who loves them. The spiritual life requires that same kind of trust. We might not understand completely why God asks us to do something, but if there's a basic trust and openness to him, it is easier to follow his commands. Many people, unfortunately, squander what should be the most productive years of their lives because they doubt God and his Church. They complicate things, only to find years later the wisdom of what Our Lord was trying to tell them. By then, their faults can be forgiven, but not undone. Once a vase is broken, it can be fixed, but it will never be the same as if it had never broken. Am I saying no to God because of a lack of trust?
3. Angelic Aid: Prayers to guardian angels used to be popular with Catholics. We should pray to them because each of us has one. "Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life," writes St. Basil (see Catechism of the Catholic Church, 336). Our angel reflects God's loving providence for our welfare and protection. The world is a moral minefield, waiting for us to make the wrong step. Our angel helps us make it through this valley of tears. Do I ever think to pray to my angel?
Conversation with Christ: The simplicity of children can make me look foolish by comparison. I believe in you and trust you, Lord. Help me to translate that trust into serenity and simplicity. Let me accept the crosses of daily life with calmness, seeing your loving designs behind them.
Resolution: I will say “yes” to the next difficult thing someone asks of me, so long as it is something morally right.
Reflection
In today's Gospel Jesus accuses the people of Chorazin and Bethsaida for their hardness of heart, for their indifference to the Gospel. The Good News had reached them but they did not respond. Great wonders had been done among them but they were not convinced. To have the Good News presented to us is indeed a blessing from God. It is a privilege. The Good News is the word of God addressed to us. While there are millions of people who have accepted the Gospel message, there are also quite a lot of people who, like the people of Capernaum, have rejected it. Others have heard Christ's message but failed to think deeply on it; they are indifferent about it. They just don't want to think about sin and so they have no interest in thinking about redemption. As Christians, we have been blessed with the Good News. Do we really try to learn all we can about it? To have heard God's word is a great responsibility. A person will be judged according to what he has learned. When a person receives God's word of wisdom - the Good News of Salvation, it becomes for that person a gift, a great glory. But each word of God that has been received carries with it a responsibility. As Christians we need to give witness to his word.
Suy Niệm bài Tin Mừng Thứ Năm Tuần 26TN
Suy Niệm bài Tin Mừng Thứ Năm Tuần 26TN (Luke 10:1-12)
Trong tất cả những sự đau khổ của mình, ông Job đã chắc chắn một điều: Đấng cứu chuộc của ông là đấng hằng sống trên thế giới này. Ông chắc rằng đau khổ của ông sẽ kết thúc, một lần nữa ông sẽ được niềm vui và hạnh phúc trở lại. Không chỉ vậy thôi, nhưng ông sẽ thấy Chúa ngay cả khi ông vẫn còn sống. Chúng ta có thể yên tâm rằng Đấng cứu chuộc của chúng ta hằng sống và Ngài sẽ thấy những khó khăn, nhừng đau khổ của chúng ta. Chúng ta có thể không thấy Thiên Chúa trong thế giới này, nhưng nếu tâm trí và tâm hồn của chúng ta biết cởi mở, chúng ta chắc chắn sẽ gặp và biết Thượng Đế.Chúa Giêsu đã sai 70 môn đệ của Ngài từng cặp, hai người một ra đi khắp xóm làng để rao giảng về Nước của Thiên Chúa. Họ được Chúa ban cho quyền chữa lành và an ủi, nhưng không được mang theo bất cứ thứ gì, họ, không được chọn lựa thức ăn hoặc chỗ ở của họ. Đó là một kinh nghiệm về sự tin cậy vào Thiên Chúa một cách tuyệt đối, vì họ không được phép mang theo tiền bạc hoặc đem theo quần áo. Tất cả sẽ được Thiên Chúa chu cấp và lo liệu. Như Thánh Phanxicô chúng ta mừng kính hôm nay. Từng là một người con trong gia đình quý phái giàu có, ngài đã nghe theo tiếng gọi của Chúa và từ bỏ tất cả mặc dù có sự ngăn cản của bố mẹ, ngài đã trả lại tất cả ngay cả bộ quần áo ngài mặc trên người để theo Chúa sống trong sự khó nghèo cho đến hôm nay. Chúng ta đã chng kiến bao nhiêu là người đã theo ngài và sống trong nhà các dòng Phanxicô .
Chúng ta đã chuẩn bị và bắt đầu cho cuộc hành trình của chúng ta chưa? Chúng ta học được cách đặt niềm tin tưởng của chúng ta vào Thiên Chúa. Sự tin tưởng đó không phải là tiền bạc, những mối liên hệ, hay quyền lực mà chúng ta sẽ thấy trong cuộc sống, nhưng đó là sự chăm sóc, ân cần chu đáo của Thiên Chúa. Thánh Phanxicô Assisi biết rõ điều này, các tu sĩ dòng Phanxicô từng sống rất đơn sơ, khó nghèo, và họ được Thiên Chúa chúc phúc trong sự thành công. Đức Thánh Cha Phanxicô kêu gọi chúng ta nên học lại bài học này trong sự hợp nhất trong Giáo Hội; tin tưởng nhiều hơn vào Thiên Chúa và đừng quá để tâm đến sự giàu có và quyền lực.
Lạy Chúa, xin giúp con biết sống trọn vẹn trong tình yêu mến Chúa.
Reflection:
Amid all his misery, Job was certain of one thing: his redeemer was alive and on the earth. There would be an end to his suffering; he would once again know joy and happiness. Not only that, he would see God even while he still lived. We can be assured that our redeemer lives and that he will see us through our difficulties. We might not see God in this world, but if our minds and hearts are open, we will certainly encounter and know God.
Jesus sent out 70 followers, two by two, to travel through the land proclaiming the kingdom of God. They were to heal and comfort, but not linger or be choosy about their food or accommodations. It was an experience of absolute trust in God, for they were not allowed to take money or spare clothing. All would be provided. Would we embark on a journey so unprepared? We could learn to be far more trusting than we are. It is not money, connections, or power that will see us through life, but the care and providence of God. St. Francis of Assisi knew this well — his friars travelled and lived very lightly, and they were blessed with success. Pope Francis urges us to relearn this lesson as a Church — trust more in God and less in wealth and power.
Lord, help me to live in complete trust.
Opening Prayer: Lord, here I am. Show me your face; show me your love for me. I know that without you I am nothing, and yet you want to give me everything. I want to love you—teach me how. Lord, increase my faith to see the world the way you see it.
Encountering Christ:
1. Christ Sent Them Ahead: Christ was God and needed nobody to help him in his mission. Yet he sent those seventy-two disciples to prepare the towns for his coming even though they were not particularly well-formed or charismatic. Here Christ was acting like a father who, building furniture or fixing something around the house, invites his young son to help. The son cannot yet do much; in fact, the father could probably do it more quickly on his own. Still, the father’s love for his child makes him want his child to share in the work he loves doing. We are privileged to take part in Christ’s mission to advance the kingdom of God.
2. Sent among Wolves: Christ was honest with his disciples; their mission was not going to be easy. Christ had been teaching them how difficult was the path he followed—“Take up your cross and follow me,” “The Son of Man is to be handed over to men,” and “No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God”—but up to now the disciples had not really experienced difficulty in the mission. Instead, they had been awed by the string of miracles Christ performed in their presence. As they got ready to go out, he reminded them that, while there would be success, many times they would feel like helpless lambs in the midst of wolves. So it can be with us—the culture he calls us to change will not convert without a fight. We experience the struggle, but armed with the power of God, we engage with people, full of hope that our effort to spread Christ’s love will conquer all.
3. Take Nothing: No one goes on a journey without money and some spare clothes, yet Christ asked his disciples to leave these things behind and go “like lambs among wolves.” How often do we think we know what we need to evangelize? How often do we try to do God’s work as we would do an ordinary job? Christ is reminding his apostles and us that the work of bringing souls back to him is not like any other mission. The tools of evangelization are faith, hope, and love, not money and clothes. Sometimes Christ will ask us to use those material things, but sometimes he will not. When he sends us to help bring others to him without the instruments, programs, and materials we think we need, how do we respond?
Conversing with Christ: Jesus, thank you for taking the time to be with me, speak with me, and pour your grace into my heart. Thank you for the mission you have given me, even though sometimes it is difficult. I want to serve you ever more faithfully. Lead me today—I’m ready to follow.
Resolution: Lord, today by your grace I will make an act of faith when I feel the mission is difficult.
REFLECTION 2018
In the first reading we see the great faith and trust of Job in God, despite the great trials and disasters he has had. In the Gospel reading Jesus sends off his disciples to preach the Good News and spread the Kingdom of God. They told people about life with God.
Like the disciples of Jesus, we are missioned to go and spread the Good News to those who do not know God, even to those we do not know. We are told that "Evangelization happens when the word of Jesus speaks to people's hearts and minds. This means that we must let our faith shine on the world around us, radiating the love of Jesus by the everyday way we speak, think and act." (US Conference of Bishops)
May we, in our own little ways, become bearers of the Good News to others?
Suy Niệm Bài đọc thứ Năm Tuần 26 Thừơng Niên, Luke 10:1-12
Trong Tin Mừng hôm nay, Chúa Giêsu cho chúng ta biết là những người theo Chúa sẽ phải chịu phần khổ sở đau đớn và đánh đập như chính Ngài sẽ phải chịu. Đó là những phần rất đặc biệt duy nhất mà các môn đệ như chúng ta được mời gọi để trở thành người Kitô hữu. Chúa Giêsu không hứa là sẽ làm cho cuộc sống của chúng ta bây giờ được dễ dàng hơn, được có đời sống đầy đủ hơn so với thời gian mà các tông đồ đã sống. Ngài đã và đang sai chúng ta ra đi và sống giữa dòng đời như chiên con sống giữa bầy sói.
Một khi chúng ta đã định cho hướng đi cho tương lai của chúng ta, chúng ta phải đứng lên, phổ biến truyền bá và bênh vực cho sự thật khi có sự tổn hại đến quyền lợi ích kỷ của những người khác, cũng vì thế mà chúng ta có thể phải gánh chịu những đau thương, nhữ bắt bớ, giam cầm vì chúng ta dám làm môn đệ và theo Chúa Kitô.
Mỗi khi chúng ta đón nhận những sự sĩ nhục vì đã sống theo gương Đức Kitô, chúng ta hãy nên nhớ rằng, chính Chúa Kitô đã sống và làm gương cho chúng ta trong mọi nơi, mọi lúc và mọi hoàn cảnh. Những dấu đinh trên tay và chân, và mũi đòng đâm sâu trên ngực Chúa đã trờ nên là dấu chỉ và chứng từ tốt nhất khi Ngài đã hiện ra cho các môn đệ của Ngài sau khi Ngài đã sống lại. Chúa đã trân trọng những vết thường đắt giá nhất trên thân thể của Ngài mà Ngài đã giữ lại vào trong thân xác vinh hiển của Ngài khi sống lại và chắc chắn những dấu chỉ này còn hiển trị mãi mãi trên Nước Trời.
REFLECTIION
In today's Gospel Jesus warns us that Christians will be liable to pains and injuries, as he was. It is all part of the unique discipleship that is required of each one of us as Christians. Jesus does not alter the rules to make life easier for us now than it was for the apostles. He continues to send us out like lambs in the midst of wolves. Once we take a definite stand, support an unpopular cause or stand for the truth when it hurts the selfish interests of others, then we will begin to collect our scars for Christ.
When we receive scars for being models of Christian living, let us keep in mind that Jesus, the greatest model of all times, was literally scarred from head to foot. The marks of the nails and spear became his best proof of identification when he appeared to his disciples after his Resurrection. He cherished his wounds so dearly that he transferred them to his glorified body and undoubtedly still displays them in Heaven today.
As for ourselves, what scars do we have to show for our years of Christian living? As it is only natural for a professional boxer to be scarred as he battles his opponents, so too, it is only natural if for a Christian, to be scarred, since true Christian living is a lifelong battle defending Christian principles against injustices and the forces of evil.
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Tư Tuần 26 Thường Niên
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Tư Tuần 26 Thường Niên
Trong bài đọc Tin Mừng hôm nay, chúng ta thấy những người muốn theo Chúa Kitô, Họ đã có được sự cảm xúc và sự thúc đẩy qua những lời giáo huấn và chính cuộc sống của Chúa Giêsu và họ đã theo Ngài và làm môn đệ của Ngài. Thật không may, trong khi họ muốn theo Chúa Kitô, những họ vẫn còn có điều kiện: "Trước hết, tôi phải chôn cha tôi"; "trước tiên, hãy để tôi nói lời vài tạm biệt chia tay với gia đình tôi." Ý chí của Họ đã bị cản trở bởi thứ vật chất, tình cảm bên ngoài đã dính liền mà không thể dứt khoát, hoặc là những nghĩa vụ mà họ nghĩ là quan trọng hơn.Chúa Kitô đã cho chúng ta thấy rằng đã thực sự theo Chúa Kitô thì không có gì quan trọng hơn nữa, và không thể để cho bất cứ một điều kiện nào được tiên quyết, "Hãy để kẻ chết chôn kẻ chết; Còn anh, anh hãy đi loan báo triều đại của (Nước) Thiên Chúa"; "Ai đã ra tay cầm cày, mà còn ngoái lại phía sau, thì không thích hợp với Nước Thiên Chúa."
Chúng ta hãy cầu nguyện để xin Chúa Giêsu, người anh em của chúng ta, ban cho chúng ta những ân sủng này qua lòng rộng lượng chủa Chúa để chúng ta có can đảm để đáp lại ơn gọi này. Xin Chúa có thể soi sáng cho chúng ta biết ơn, trân trọng những hồng ân mà Chúa đã ban cho chúng ta và để cúng ta luôn biết tìm kiếm kho báu vĩnh viễn trong Nước Chúa.
Reflection:
In the Gospel reading we see people who wished to follow Christ. They were touched and moved by Jesus' preaching and life to follow him and be his disciples. Unfortunately, while they wished to follow Christ, they were willing to do so under certain conditions: "first, I want to bury my father"; "first, let me say goodbye to my family." They were hindered by other attachments or by what to them were more important obligations.
Christ points out that the following of Christ was truly demanding and allowed no pre-conditions, "Let the dead bury the dead; as for you, leave them and proclaim the kingdom of God"; "Whoever puts his hand on the plow and looks back is not fit for the kingdom of God."
The Church has declared 2014 as the "Year of the Laity." The Church reminds and encourages the laity who make up the great majority of the Church to fully live out their vocations as members of Christ's Church and followers of Christ. The Church reminds all of the primacy of our call to be "Christians" and to be "Christ-like."
Let us pray to Jesus, our brother, for the gift of generosity and courage to answer this call. May he enlighten us to gratefully appreciate the many gifts given to us and to always seek for treasures which last forever. May we learn to use and value whatever we have always looking forward to the kingdom of heaven. May we learn to be generous in our response to Christ
Introductory Prayer: In you, Lord, I find all my joy and happiness. How could I offend you by chasing after fleeting success and lifeless trophies? I believe in you because you are truth itself. I hope in you because you are faithful to your promises. I love you because you have loved me first. I am a sinner; nevertheless, you have given me so many blessings. I humbly thank you.
Petition: Let me willingly accept the cost of following in your footsteps
1. Hidden Expenses: A would-be disciple of Jesus' boasts that he will follow Our Lord anywhere, whatever the sacrifice. Jesus' response makes us wonder whether the fellow understood what he would be getting into. Following Christ is demanding — and not always glamorous. We might dream of doing great things for Christ, but then find the day-to-day struggle distasteful ("the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head"). Unglamorous challenges take many forms. A new wife might discover to her chagrin that her husband can't handle finances. Or a parent with high hopes learns that a child has a learning disability that will limit her ability to excel. Or a husband takes a higher-paying job to support his family, only to find his new boss is a tyrant. Or a teen suffers ridicule at public school for her modest clothes. All these trials can be the cost of following Christ. What price am I willing to pay?
2. Family Ties: Christ tries to dissuade another would-be follower from "burying his father." The man was probably settling his father's estate and getting too involved in family finances. Our Lord wanted him to cut with all that, immediately, and get on with the work of the Kingdom. Too often money matters distract us from doing what Christ wants. No wonder St. Paul warns, "The love of money is the root of all evils" (1 Timothy 6:10). Is money holding me back in my relationship with Christ? Am I working longer hours than I need to, just for the sake of money?
3. Long Goodbye: The moment of decision had arrived. But instead of joining Jesus' camp, the would-be disciple felt the tug of family ties. As followers of Christ, we have to be willing to make a fundamental option for Christ — an option that by necessity excludes other paths. Does this sound hard? It should sound familiar. Think of the young woman who says yes to a proposal of marriage. She does so assuming that her beloved has long broken off other romantic relationships. Or take the student who decides to go out for the soccer team at school. He rules out spending hours of practice on the basketball court. By extension, if we want to follow Christ, why do we fritter away hours in activities that have nothing to do with our faith or the Church? Are there things I need to weed out of my life?
Conversation with Christ: Lord, help me focus my energies better on you and what you are asking of me. Let me not be distracted by activities or material possessions or even relationships that aren't helping my spiritual life.
Resolution: I will weed out one thing from my life that doesn't fit in with my state as a Christian. It could be a Web site, a subscription to a publication, an immodest piece of clothing, a relationship.
REFLECTION 2017
In the Lord's description of the three would-be disciples in our Gospel reading, the commitment of each is faulty because it has implied limits. These three, then, are examples of conflicting commitments. Each one professes a commitment "to follow Christ," but in a partial way or with a pre-condition.
All of us have a call to follow Christ. Following Jesus is a life-call for all the baptized, to follow our brother, leader and Lord. All of us are called to live our following of Christ in whatever life or occupation we may have, at whatever age we may be, with whatever talents and gifts we may have.
Following Christ begins with knowing him and trusting in him as God's promised Messiah and as our Savior. For it is by faith in him that we have our sins forgiven and we are helped by God's grace to lead a life prepared for eternal life.
The Gospel reading today gives examples of those called by Christ to follow and be with him, as his apostles and disciples, as helpers and ministers in preaching the Gospel. For them, today's ministers and priests of the Church and religious, the following of Christ is their life. For most of us lay people, the following of Christ is living according to the Gospel values and prioritizing these Gospel values in our lives and careers, in our families and daily lives.
The Kingdom of God is for all those who follow Christ's values in their lives, who lead their lives according to God's commandments. The following of Christ is living our lives in preparation for eternal happiness with God in heaven.
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Lễ Kính Các Tổng Lãnh Thiên Thần
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Lễ Kính Các Tổng Lãnh Thiên Thần Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael
Qua bài Tin Mừng, Chúa Giêsu đã làm cho Nathanael rất đỗi ngạc nhiên, vì Ngài đã biết tất cả mọi thứ về Nathanael. Và ông Nathanael đã kinh ngạc và xưng tụng Ngài chính là Con Thiên Chúa, là Vua của Israel, nhưng Chúa Giêsu trả lời rằng những lời xưng tụng của Nathanael cũng chẳng có gì để so với những gì mà Nathanael sẽ sớm được thấy: Nghĩa là thiên thần đã xuất hiện và biến đi trước mặt Con Người. Cánh cửa ngõ giữa thiên đường và trái đất sẽ sớm được mở ra, không phải chỉ đối với Con Người nhưng còn mở ra cho toàn thể nhân loại. Chúng ta không nên ngạc nhiên khi thấy sứ giả của Thiên Chúa là Thiên thần cùng đồng hành với chúng ta và làm việc với và giữa chúng ta. Thường thì các Thiên Thần không được công nhận vì các Thiên Thần không đến với chúng ta dưới hình thức thực chất mà chúng ta thấy ở trong who các bức tranh nghệ thuật và đạo đức nhưng cũng không kém phần thực tế. Một lần nữa, chúng ta không bao giờ phải đơn côi, một mình và chúng ta có thể thực thi việc tìm kiếm sự thinh lặng và con đường ẩn dấu mà các thiên sứ đã hoàn thành nhiệm vụ của họ.
Lạy Chúa Xin giúo cho chúng con được thấy được sự hiện diện ẩn dấu của Chúa trong cuộc sống của chúng con.
Reflection Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, Archangels
When we look at what a mess the world is in, it is natural to wish for a ‘superhero’ to come and make everything right. The Jews who suffered great persecution longed for the tyrannical and unjust rulers and regimes of the earth to be swept away and for the wicked to be judged and punished. The early Christians expressed the same hopes in the Book of Revelation. By now we should know that God does not do the job for us or clean up our mess. God will give us the inspiration, grace, courage, and spirit to do these things but in the end the effort will be ours. The archangels are those messengers from God who walk with us to aid and encourage us along the way. We are never alone and we are never without inner resources.
Jesus surprised Nathanael because he already knew everything about him. Nathanael proclaimed him the Son of God and King of Israel, but Jesus replied that these titles were nothing compared to what Nathanael would soon see: angels ascending and descending on the Son of Man. The gateway between heaven and earth would soon be open, not only for the Son of Man but for all humanity. We should not be surprised that messengers from God walk and work among us. Often they are not recognized because they do not come in the dramatic form that we see in art and piety but they are no less real. Again, we are never alone and we can practice looking for the quiet and hidden ways that the angels accomplish their mission.
Lord, help me to see Your hidden presence in my life.
Reflection
Introductory Prayer: Lord, I approach this time of prayer earnestly. I believe that you have called me to be faithful and loving in your service. I thank you along with Mary, the saints and the holy angels for the marvelous works of creation. I will humbly try to reflect your greatness to all I meet today by honestly fulfilling my duty.
Petition: Lord, help me be an instrument of your peace and love.
1. Honesty Is the Best Policy: Once as Jesus spent the whole night in prayer, he searched for apostles that would be honest and sincere. Jesus took a liking to Nathanael when he discovered an Israelite without guile in his heart. Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, "Here is a true Israelite. There is no duplicity in him. It seems that Jesus admired this angelic trait in men. As soon as he saw Philip bringing Nathanael forward to meet him, Jesus immediately noticed the virtue Nathanael lived. If I want to be highly thought of by Jesus, then I need to be sincere in mind and heart.
2. The Holy Angels: The Church venerates today the holy service of three of the archangels. They stand out for their honest love for God’s most holy will. With such fidelity, St. Gabriel faithfully delivered the most important messages of human history to Zacharias and Mary. St. Michael wrestled with Lucifer and cast him out of heaven. St. Raphael came to the aid of Tobias in the Old Testament. In these angels, there isn’t any duplicity of heart. God asks them a favor, and they truly fulfill it. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to implement our talents and gifts toward service of this nature? Wouldn’t it be great to be honest instruments of God’s infinite love like these three archangels?
3. The Lord’s Gaze: Jesus looks into the heart and doesn’t judge by appearances. Christ’s gaze penetrated Nathanael on this occasion. Jesus penetrates the motives of my heart even though they are kept hidden from the others. Jesus is the first one to know if I am true to the faith I have received. If I am faithful to the dictates of my conscience and obey God’s lead, in private or in public, then I have nothing to hide and nothing to lose. If on the other hand, I am dwindling in my surrender to Christ by boredom and monotony, then it is about time I sought renewal. Christ needs me! How many are dying and fading away because they lack Christ and his love? I, in turn, have been graced by many special spiritual favors! Jesus gazes into my eyes and dreams of my fidelity and love.
Conversation with Christ: Lord, thank you for the example of these three archangels and of the holy apostles. The holy apostles ended up shedding their blood for you and the holy angels aid us on our journey towards you. Lord, seeing so many lacking the faith, I resolve to be your tireless instrument, like them, so that many may come to praise you for all eternity.
Qua bài Tin Mừng, Chúa Giêsu đã làm cho Nathanael rất đỗi ngạc nhiên, vì Ngài đã biết tất cả mọi thứ về Nathanael. Và ông Nathanael đã kinh ngạc và xưng tụng Ngài chính là Con Thiên Chúa, là Vua của Israel, nhưng Chúa Giêsu trả lời rằng những lời xưng tụng của Nathanael cũng chẳng có gì để so với những gì mà Nathanael sẽ sớm được thấy: Nghĩa là thiên thần đã xuất hiện và biến đi trước mặt Con Người. Cánh cửa ngõ giữa thiên đường và trái đất sẽ sớm được mở ra, không phải chỉ đối với Con Người nhưng còn mở ra cho toàn thể nhân loại. Chúng ta không nên ngạc nhiên khi thấy sứ giả của Thiên Chúa là Thiên thần cùng đồng hành với chúng ta và làm việc với và giữa chúng ta. Thường thì các Thiên Thần không được công nhận vì các Thiên Thần không đến với chúng ta dưới hình thức thực chất mà chúng ta thấy ở trong who các bức tranh nghệ thuật và đạo đức nhưng cũng không kém phần thực tế. Một lần nữa, chúng ta không bao giờ phải đơn côi, một mình và chúng ta có thể thực thi việc tìm kiếm sự thinh lặng và con đường ẩn dấu mà các thiên sứ đã hoàn thành nhiệm vụ của họ.
Lạy Chúa Xin giúo cho chúng con được thấy được sự hiện diện ẩn dấu của Chúa trong cuộc sống của chúng con.
Reflection Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, Archangels
When we look at what a mess the world is in, it is natural to wish for a ‘superhero’ to come and make everything right. The Jews who suffered great persecution longed for the tyrannical and unjust rulers and regimes of the earth to be swept away and for the wicked to be judged and punished. The early Christians expressed the same hopes in the Book of Revelation. By now we should know that God does not do the job for us or clean up our mess. God will give us the inspiration, grace, courage, and spirit to do these things but in the end the effort will be ours. The archangels are those messengers from God who walk with us to aid and encourage us along the way. We are never alone and we are never without inner resources.
Jesus surprised Nathanael because he already knew everything about him. Nathanael proclaimed him the Son of God and King of Israel, but Jesus replied that these titles were nothing compared to what Nathanael would soon see: angels ascending and descending on the Son of Man. The gateway between heaven and earth would soon be open, not only for the Son of Man but for all humanity. We should not be surprised that messengers from God walk and work among us. Often they are not recognized because they do not come in the dramatic form that we see in art and piety but they are no less real. Again, we are never alone and we can practice looking for the quiet and hidden ways that the angels accomplish their mission.
Lord, help me to see Your hidden presence in my life.
Reflection
Introductory Prayer: Lord, I approach this time of prayer earnestly. I believe that you have called me to be faithful and loving in your service. I thank you along with Mary, the saints and the holy angels for the marvelous works of creation. I will humbly try to reflect your greatness to all I meet today by honestly fulfilling my duty.
Petition: Lord, help me be an instrument of your peace and love.
1. Honesty Is the Best Policy: Once as Jesus spent the whole night in prayer, he searched for apostles that would be honest and sincere. Jesus took a liking to Nathanael when he discovered an Israelite without guile in his heart. Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, "Here is a true Israelite. There is no duplicity in him. It seems that Jesus admired this angelic trait in men. As soon as he saw Philip bringing Nathanael forward to meet him, Jesus immediately noticed the virtue Nathanael lived. If I want to be highly thought of by Jesus, then I need to be sincere in mind and heart.
2. The Holy Angels: The Church venerates today the holy service of three of the archangels. They stand out for their honest love for God’s most holy will. With such fidelity, St. Gabriel faithfully delivered the most important messages of human history to Zacharias and Mary. St. Michael wrestled with Lucifer and cast him out of heaven. St. Raphael came to the aid of Tobias in the Old Testament. In these angels, there isn’t any duplicity of heart. God asks them a favor, and they truly fulfill it. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to implement our talents and gifts toward service of this nature? Wouldn’t it be great to be honest instruments of God’s infinite love like these three archangels?
3. The Lord’s Gaze: Jesus looks into the heart and doesn’t judge by appearances. Christ’s gaze penetrated Nathanael on this occasion. Jesus penetrates the motives of my heart even though they are kept hidden from the others. Jesus is the first one to know if I am true to the faith I have received. If I am faithful to the dictates of my conscience and obey God’s lead, in private or in public, then I have nothing to hide and nothing to lose. If on the other hand, I am dwindling in my surrender to Christ by boredom and monotony, then it is about time I sought renewal. Christ needs me! How many are dying and fading away because they lack Christ and his love? I, in turn, have been graced by many special spiritual favors! Jesus gazes into my eyes and dreams of my fidelity and love.
Conversation with Christ: Lord, thank you for the example of these three archangels and of the holy apostles. The holy apostles ended up shedding their blood for you and the holy angels aid us on our journey towards you. Lord, seeing so many lacking the faith, I resolve to be your tireless instrument, like them, so that many may come to praise you for all eternity.
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Ba Tuần 26 Thường Niên (Luke 9:51-56)
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Ba Tuần 26 Thường Niên (Luke 9:51-56)
Hôm nay chúng ta hãy suy niệm vào tình yêu bao la của Chúa Giêsu Kitô đã ban cho chúng ta, Đó là một tình yêu có sự tôn trọng tự do cá nhân riêng của mỗi chúng ta. Những khoảnh khắc trong cuộc sống của chúng ta, đôi khi chúng ta chẳng khắc gì những người của Samaria, có những hành động kém thân thiện, không hiếu khách khi Chúa Kitô đi qua và ghé thăm chúng ta. .
Chúng ta không thể biết được là khi nào Ngài đã đến với chúng ta. Có thể Ngài đến trong hình bóng một người thấp kém nhất trong chúng ta, có thể là một em bé, lang thang bán vé sổ, có thể là người hành khất đang ăn xin trên đường mà chúng ta đã gặp trên hè phố hôm nay, có thể một người nào đó đang thiếu thốn tình thương, đang thất vọng, đang cần sự chú ý và giúp đỡ của chúng ta.! Chúa Giêsu luôn luôn đi qua trong cuộc sống của chúng ta, trong những khoảng thời gian tốt có, xấu có, Sự qua lại ghé thăm của Ngài luôn luôn là những mục đích để giúp chúng ta phát triển thêm trong đức tin, để giúp chúng ta kiên định giữ lời dạy bảo của Ngài và tìm kiếm vương quốc của Ngài là Thiên Đàng trước tiên.
Chúng ta hãy cố gắng không nên từ chối bất cứ điều gì mà có vẻ không tốt cho chúng ta, hay là một sự thất vọng, vv . Chúng ta hãy nhớ cầu nguyện xin Chúa ban cho chúng ta những ân sũng và những hồng ơn được hiểu biết và kiên nhẫn, được ơn sức mạnh tinh thần trong thời gian thử thách. Và đặc biệt nhất là hồng ân của trí tuệ để chúng ta biết phân biệt và nhận ra Chúa khi Chúa đến và đang đi qua đời chúng ta.
Meditation:
Are you surprised to see two of Jesus' disciples praying for the destruction of a Samaritan village? The Jews and Samaritans had been divided for centuries. Jewish pilgrims who passed through Samaritan territory were often assaulted. Jesus did the unthinkable for a Jew. He not only decided to travel through Samaritan territory at personal risk, but he also asked for hospitality in one of their villages! Jesus' offer of friendship was rebuffed. Is there any wonder that the disciples were indignant and felt justified in wanting to see retribution done to this village? Wouldn't you respond the same way? Jesus, however, rebukes his disciples for their lack of toleration. Jesus had "set his face toward Jerusalem" to die on a cross that Jew, Samaritan and Gentile might be reconciled with God and be united as one people in Christ.
Tolerance is a much needed virtue today. But aren't we often tolerant for the wrong thing or for the wrong motive? Christian love seeks the highest good of both one's neighbor and one's enemy. When Abraham Lincoln was criticized for his courtesy and tolerance towards his enemies during the American Civil War, he responded: "Do I not destroy my enemies when I make them my friends?" How do you treat those who cross you and cause you trouble? Do you seek their good rather than their harm?
"Lord Jesus, you are gracious, merciful, and kind. Set me free from my prejudice and intolerance towards those I find disagreeable, and widen my heart to love and to do good even to those who wish me harm or evil."
REFLECTION
To "become like little children" in the Gospel reading does not mean to be ignorant and weak, helpless and gullible. To "become like little children" means to be little children totally dependent on their parents and elders in our relationship with our heavenly Father. It means we should be "innocent," with the pure innocence of little children, trusting, obedient and dependent on our Father in heaven in the way of little children with their parents. It means we somehow let go of our pride, arrogance and complete confidence in ourselves.
In the first reading Yahweh, God of Israel, faithful to his covenant, reiterates his love for Israel and promises their return to Jerusalem, "I am going to save my people ... They will be my people and I shall be their God."
Are we able to "become like little children" before our heavenly Father? Are we able to have complete trust and confidence that our heavenly Father will take care of us? "If God so clothes the grass in the field which blooms today and is to be burned tomorrow in an oven, how much more will he clothe you?" (Mt 6: 30) "As bad as you are, you know how to give good things to your children. How much more, then, will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him!" (Mt 7: 11)
REFLECTION Tuesday 26th Ordinary Time Luke 9:51-56
Let us reflect today on the immense love of Jesus Christ for us – a love that respects your freedom. Many moments in our life we, like the people of Samaria, act in the same hostile way, not knowing it is the Lord who is passing by and visiting us. What are some of the moments that Jesus could be passing by? He often takes the form of a little one, someone of no importance to whom we do not pay attention and whom we can easily reject. A poor one perhaps? Or a relative who needs consolation? Someone sick who may need medical help? Or a situation that is not expected? A failure in life? Jesus is always passing in our lives, in good times and bad times. This passing is always to help us grow stronger in faith, for us to hold steadfast to his teachings and to seek first his kingdom. Let us not reject anything that does not seem good for us, an irritation to our plans, a disappointment, etc. Let us pray instead for the gift of understanding and patience - the gift of fortitude in times of trials. And most especially the gift of wisdom to discern when the Lord is passing.
REFLECTION 2017
In the first reading the prophet says that "many great peoples and powerful nations will come seeking Yahweh, God of hosts, in Jerusalem and pray to him." They will come because they have "heard that God is with you."
Before Jesus returned to heaven in his Ascension, he commissioned his disciples to "go and make disciples from all nations." (Mt 28: 19) Jesus wishes that the salvation he gained be brought to and be enjoyed by all humankind, similar to the prophet's words that many peoples and nations will come to worship Yahweh, the one true God of hosts and of Israel.
In the Gospel reading the apostles James and John wished to call down fire and thunder from the heavens to destroy the Samaritan village which refused to receive them: thus, Jesus called them Boanerges, "men of thunder." Though the Samaritans did not receive them (Jews and Samaritans did not like one another, hated one another! They also knew Jesus and his disciples were headed for the Jewish center Jerusalem.), Jesus rebuked James and John for their evil wishes on the Samaritan village.
Despite two millennia of Christianity, the great majority of our world today do not know Christ; there are many who know of him and hate those who believe in him.
May we strengthen our faith in Christ. May we be witnesses of Christ to others that they may say, "We, too, want to go with you for we have heard that God is with you."
Hôm nay chúng ta hãy suy niệm vào tình yêu bao la của Chúa Giêsu Kitô đã ban cho chúng ta, Đó là một tình yêu có sự tôn trọng tự do cá nhân riêng của mỗi chúng ta. Những khoảnh khắc trong cuộc sống của chúng ta, đôi khi chúng ta chẳng khắc gì những người của Samaria, có những hành động kém thân thiện, không hiếu khách khi Chúa Kitô đi qua và ghé thăm chúng ta. .
Chúng ta không thể biết được là khi nào Ngài đã đến với chúng ta. Có thể Ngài đến trong hình bóng một người thấp kém nhất trong chúng ta, có thể là một em bé, lang thang bán vé sổ, có thể là người hành khất đang ăn xin trên đường mà chúng ta đã gặp trên hè phố hôm nay, có thể một người nào đó đang thiếu thốn tình thương, đang thất vọng, đang cần sự chú ý và giúp đỡ của chúng ta.! Chúa Giêsu luôn luôn đi qua trong cuộc sống của chúng ta, trong những khoảng thời gian tốt có, xấu có, Sự qua lại ghé thăm của Ngài luôn luôn là những mục đích để giúp chúng ta phát triển thêm trong đức tin, để giúp chúng ta kiên định giữ lời dạy bảo của Ngài và tìm kiếm vương quốc của Ngài là Thiên Đàng trước tiên.
Chúng ta hãy cố gắng không nên từ chối bất cứ điều gì mà có vẻ không tốt cho chúng ta, hay là một sự thất vọng, vv . Chúng ta hãy nhớ cầu nguyện xin Chúa ban cho chúng ta những ân sũng và những hồng ơn được hiểu biết và kiên nhẫn, được ơn sức mạnh tinh thần trong thời gian thử thách. Và đặc biệt nhất là hồng ân của trí tuệ để chúng ta biết phân biệt và nhận ra Chúa khi Chúa đến và đang đi qua đời chúng ta.
Meditation:
Are you surprised to see two of Jesus' disciples praying for the destruction of a Samaritan village? The Jews and Samaritans had been divided for centuries. Jewish pilgrims who passed through Samaritan territory were often assaulted. Jesus did the unthinkable for a Jew. He not only decided to travel through Samaritan territory at personal risk, but he also asked for hospitality in one of their villages! Jesus' offer of friendship was rebuffed. Is there any wonder that the disciples were indignant and felt justified in wanting to see retribution done to this village? Wouldn't you respond the same way? Jesus, however, rebukes his disciples for their lack of toleration. Jesus had "set his face toward Jerusalem" to die on a cross that Jew, Samaritan and Gentile might be reconciled with God and be united as one people in Christ.
Tolerance is a much needed virtue today. But aren't we often tolerant for the wrong thing or for the wrong motive? Christian love seeks the highest good of both one's neighbor and one's enemy. When Abraham Lincoln was criticized for his courtesy and tolerance towards his enemies during the American Civil War, he responded: "Do I not destroy my enemies when I make them my friends?" How do you treat those who cross you and cause you trouble? Do you seek their good rather than their harm?
"Lord Jesus, you are gracious, merciful, and kind. Set me free from my prejudice and intolerance towards those I find disagreeable, and widen my heart to love and to do good even to those who wish me harm or evil."
REFLECTION
To "become like little children" in the Gospel reading does not mean to be ignorant and weak, helpless and gullible. To "become like little children" means to be little children totally dependent on their parents and elders in our relationship with our heavenly Father. It means we should be "innocent," with the pure innocence of little children, trusting, obedient and dependent on our Father in heaven in the way of little children with their parents. It means we somehow let go of our pride, arrogance and complete confidence in ourselves.
In the first reading Yahweh, God of Israel, faithful to his covenant, reiterates his love for Israel and promises their return to Jerusalem, "I am going to save my people ... They will be my people and I shall be their God."
Are we able to "become like little children" before our heavenly Father? Are we able to have complete trust and confidence that our heavenly Father will take care of us? "If God so clothes the grass in the field which blooms today and is to be burned tomorrow in an oven, how much more will he clothe you?" (Mt 6: 30) "As bad as you are, you know how to give good things to your children. How much more, then, will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him!" (Mt 7: 11)
REFLECTION Tuesday 26th Ordinary Time Luke 9:51-56
Let us reflect today on the immense love of Jesus Christ for us – a love that respects your freedom. Many moments in our life we, like the people of Samaria, act in the same hostile way, not knowing it is the Lord who is passing by and visiting us. What are some of the moments that Jesus could be passing by? He often takes the form of a little one, someone of no importance to whom we do not pay attention and whom we can easily reject. A poor one perhaps? Or a relative who needs consolation? Someone sick who may need medical help? Or a situation that is not expected? A failure in life? Jesus is always passing in our lives, in good times and bad times. This passing is always to help us grow stronger in faith, for us to hold steadfast to his teachings and to seek first his kingdom. Let us not reject anything that does not seem good for us, an irritation to our plans, a disappointment, etc. Let us pray instead for the gift of understanding and patience - the gift of fortitude in times of trials. And most especially the gift of wisdom to discern when the Lord is passing.
REFLECTION 2017
In the first reading the prophet says that "many great peoples and powerful nations will come seeking Yahweh, God of hosts, in Jerusalem and pray to him." They will come because they have "heard that God is with you."
Before Jesus returned to heaven in his Ascension, he commissioned his disciples to "go and make disciples from all nations." (Mt 28: 19) Jesus wishes that the salvation he gained be brought to and be enjoyed by all humankind, similar to the prophet's words that many peoples and nations will come to worship Yahweh, the one true God of hosts and of Israel.
In the Gospel reading the apostles James and John wished to call down fire and thunder from the heavens to destroy the Samaritan village which refused to receive them: thus, Jesus called them Boanerges, "men of thunder." Though the Samaritans did not receive them (Jews and Samaritans did not like one another, hated one another! They also knew Jesus and his disciples were headed for the Jewish center Jerusalem.), Jesus rebuked James and John for their evil wishes on the Samaritan village.
Despite two millennia of Christianity, the great majority of our world today do not know Christ; there are many who know of him and hate those who believe in him.
May we strengthen our faith in Christ. May we be witnesses of Christ to others that they may say, "We, too, want to go with you for we have heard that God is with you."
Sunday, September 27, 2020
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Hai Tuần 26 Thường Niên
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Hai Tuần 26 Thường Niên
Bài đọc Tin Mừng hôm nay cho chúng ta thấy được những sự kiện quan trọng trong sứ vụ công khai của Chúa Giêsu Kitô: Ông Phêrô đã tuyên xưng đức tin ông và tin vào Chúa Giêsu, Ngài là Đấng Thiên sai của Thiên Chúa, đã tiên đoán về sự đau khổ về cuộc khổ nạn của Ngài và cái chết và sự phục sinh của Ngài và Ngài cũng đã tõ mình ra trong cuộc biến mình với Môi-se và Ê-li trước mặt các tông đồ Phêrô, Giacôbê và Gioan.
Đây chính trong bối cảnh này mà Chúa Giêsu thấy các môn đệ tranh cãi về cái tôi, về cái chức quyền của họ "Họ đã tranh cãi là ai trong số họ là người lớn nhất." Và Chúa Giêsu đã giáo huấn họ, dạy cho họ biết được cái giá trị của của mỗi người chúng ta trong nước của Thiên Chúa, và Ngài đã mang một đứa trẻ trước mặt họ, "Ai đón chào những đứa trẻ này vì danh thầy, là đón chào thầy, và ai chào đón thầy, thì đón chào Đấng đã sai thầy và hãy nghe đây. nếu một ai trong các người được coi như thè nhỏ nhất hay thấp kém nhấ trong số tất cả các con, Thì người ấy là một con người vĩ đại nhất. "
Trong giá trị của Thiên Chúa, người lớn nhất vĩ đại nhất là nhỏ nhất và thấp kém. Thật là vinh ph1uc cho ngững ai có tinh thần của người nghèo... Những người than khóc... Hiền lành... Những ai đói khát vì sự công chính... Những ai bị bách hại vì sự công chính." (Mt 5: 3-10)
Con Thiên Chúa "Ngài đã hủy mình ra không, là lĩnh lấy thân phận tôi đòi, trở thành giống hẳn người ta; đem thân đội lốt người phàm, 8 Ngài đã hạ mình thấp hèn, trở thành vâng phục cho đến chết, và là cái chết thập giá! 9 Bởi vậy Thiên Chúa đã siêu tôn Ngài! và ban cho Ngài Danh hiệu vượt quá mọi danh hiệu,"(Phil 2: 7-9)
Để theo Đức Giêsu kitô là đi theo con người đầy tờ khiêm tốn, đau khồ, ""Nếu ai muốn đi sau Ta, thì hãy chối bỏ chính mình, hãy vác lấy khổ giá của mình và hãy theo Ta. 3" (Mc 8: 34)
Reflection:
Our gospel reading today follows key events in our Lord's public ministry: Peter's profession of faith in him as the Messiah of God, his prediction of his suffering, death and resurrection and his transfiguration with Moses and Elijah before the apostles Peter, James and John.
It is in this context that Jesus finds his disciples arguing "about which of them was the greatest." And Jesus educates them in God's value system by bringing in a little child before them, "Whoever welcomes this little child in my name, welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me, welcomes the one who sent me. And listen: the one who is found to be the least among you all, is the one who is the greatest."
In God's value system, the least is the greatest. For "fortunate are those who have the spirit of the poor. . . those who mourn. . . the gentle. . . those who hunger and thirst for . . . those who are persecuted for the cause of justice." (Mt 5: 3 – 10)
The Son of God "emptied himself, taking the nature of a servant, made in human likeness. . . humbled himself by being obedient to death, death on the cross. That is why God exalted him and gave him the Name which outshines all names." (Phil 2: 7 – 9)
The following of Jesus is the following of the humble Suffering Servant, "If you want to follow me, deny yourself take up your cross and follow me." (Mk 8: 34)
Introductory Prayer:
Bài đọc Tin Mừng hôm nay cho chúng ta thấy được những sự kiện quan trọng trong sứ vụ công khai của Chúa Giêsu Kitô: Ông Phêrô đã tuyên xưng đức tin ông và tin vào Chúa Giêsu, Ngài là Đấng Thiên sai của Thiên Chúa, đã tiên đoán về sự đau khổ về cuộc khổ nạn của Ngài và cái chết và sự phục sinh của Ngài và Ngài cũng đã tõ mình ra trong cuộc biến mình với Môi-se và Ê-li trước mặt các tông đồ Phêrô, Giacôbê và Gioan.
Đây chính trong bối cảnh này mà Chúa Giêsu thấy các môn đệ tranh cãi về cái tôi, về cái chức quyền của họ "Họ đã tranh cãi là ai trong số họ là người lớn nhất." Và Chúa Giêsu đã giáo huấn họ, dạy cho họ biết được cái giá trị của của mỗi người chúng ta trong nước của Thiên Chúa, và Ngài đã mang một đứa trẻ trước mặt họ, "Ai đón chào những đứa trẻ này vì danh thầy, là đón chào thầy, và ai chào đón thầy, thì đón chào Đấng đã sai thầy và hãy nghe đây. nếu một ai trong các người được coi như thè nhỏ nhất hay thấp kém nhấ trong số tất cả các con, Thì người ấy là một con người vĩ đại nhất. "
Trong giá trị của Thiên Chúa, người lớn nhất vĩ đại nhất là nhỏ nhất và thấp kém. Thật là vinh ph1uc cho ngững ai có tinh thần của người nghèo... Những người than khóc... Hiền lành... Những ai đói khát vì sự công chính... Những ai bị bách hại vì sự công chính." (Mt 5: 3-10)
Con Thiên Chúa "Ngài đã hủy mình ra không, là lĩnh lấy thân phận tôi đòi, trở thành giống hẳn người ta; đem thân đội lốt người phàm, 8 Ngài đã hạ mình thấp hèn, trở thành vâng phục cho đến chết, và là cái chết thập giá! 9 Bởi vậy Thiên Chúa đã siêu tôn Ngài! và ban cho Ngài Danh hiệu vượt quá mọi danh hiệu,"(Phil 2: 7-9)
Để theo Đức Giêsu kitô là đi theo con người đầy tờ khiêm tốn, đau khồ, ""Nếu ai muốn đi sau Ta, thì hãy chối bỏ chính mình, hãy vác lấy khổ giá của mình và hãy theo Ta. 3" (Mc 8: 34)
Reflection:
Our gospel reading today follows key events in our Lord's public ministry: Peter's profession of faith in him as the Messiah of God, his prediction of his suffering, death and resurrection and his transfiguration with Moses and Elijah before the apostles Peter, James and John.
It is in this context that Jesus finds his disciples arguing "about which of them was the greatest." And Jesus educates them in God's value system by bringing in a little child before them, "Whoever welcomes this little child in my name, welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me, welcomes the one who sent me. And listen: the one who is found to be the least among you all, is the one who is the greatest."
In God's value system, the least is the greatest. For "fortunate are those who have the spirit of the poor. . . those who mourn. . . the gentle. . . those who hunger and thirst for . . . those who are persecuted for the cause of justice." (Mt 5: 3 – 10)
The Son of God "emptied himself, taking the nature of a servant, made in human likeness. . . humbled himself by being obedient to death, death on the cross. That is why God exalted him and gave him the Name which outshines all names." (Phil 2: 7 – 9)
The following of Jesus is the following of the humble Suffering Servant, "If you want to follow me, deny yourself take up your cross and follow me." (Mk 8: 34)
Introductory Prayer:
In you, Lord, I find all my joy and happiness. How could I offend you by chasing after fleeting success and lifeless trophies? I believe in you because you are truth itself. I hope in you because you are faithful to your promises. I love you because you have loved me first. I am a sinner; nevertheless, you have given me so many blessings. I humbly thank you.
Petition: Holy Spirit, teach me to see myself as the least of all, as one called to serve all.
1. Me-first Syndrome: Listening wasn't the disciples' strong suit. How could it be? If they had indeed paid attention to the Master, they should have known that the Good News wasn't about striving for prestige and recognition. It was about humility and service. We can only wonder why Jesus' words didn't sink in for his disciples. Yet, are we much better? We hear or read the same Gospel passages year after year, yet we still fall into sins of pride. We might think ourselves better or smarter or holier than the rest. But how does Christ see us?
2. The Corrupter: Jesus explains what greatness consists: the acceptance of the weakest and most defenseless, in his name. This requires a humble heart. God gives us certain powers that he hopes will be used for good purposes. The history of mankind seethes with tales of people exploiting one another at every opportunity. Examples abound for ethnic groups that exploit minorities, employers who take advantage of poor immigrants, the road-rager who cuts off people in traffic. “Power corrupts,” says the ancient adage. Indeed it does. How do I treat the people over whom I have authority? Am I like a dictator? Do I always want to show them "who's the boss"? Or is my attitude one of service?
3. Zealously Jealous: John explains that he and the other disciples tried to stop someone who was doing good in Jesus' name. The person's crime was that he didn't follow "in our company." Christians have derailed more than a few good works over the centuries because they thought themselves appointed by God to police the Church. The Holy Spirit raises all kinds of new works which need to be serenely discerned, not systematically squelched simply because they are unique. "By their fruits you will know them," Jesus says (see Matthew 7:16). The lesson Our Lord wants to give is: Don't be so quick to judge others' motives. Give them the benefit of the doubt, and wait to see what their work produces. Is there anyone I'm keeping from doing good?
Conversation with Christ: Give me the grace to see people and actions through your eyes. Let me bring my standards in line with yours. Let me learn to look at a person's heart rather than his appearance. And above all, give me the wisdom never to stand in the way of people doing good for your Church.
Petition: Holy Spirit, teach me to see myself as the least of all, as one called to serve all.
1. Me-first Syndrome: Listening wasn't the disciples' strong suit. How could it be? If they had indeed paid attention to the Master, they should have known that the Good News wasn't about striving for prestige and recognition. It was about humility and service. We can only wonder why Jesus' words didn't sink in for his disciples. Yet, are we much better? We hear or read the same Gospel passages year after year, yet we still fall into sins of pride. We might think ourselves better or smarter or holier than the rest. But how does Christ see us?
2. The Corrupter: Jesus explains what greatness consists: the acceptance of the weakest and most defenseless, in his name. This requires a humble heart. God gives us certain powers that he hopes will be used for good purposes. The history of mankind seethes with tales of people exploiting one another at every opportunity. Examples abound for ethnic groups that exploit minorities, employers who take advantage of poor immigrants, the road-rager who cuts off people in traffic. “Power corrupts,” says the ancient adage. Indeed it does. How do I treat the people over whom I have authority? Am I like a dictator? Do I always want to show them "who's the boss"? Or is my attitude one of service?
3. Zealously Jealous: John explains that he and the other disciples tried to stop someone who was doing good in Jesus' name. The person's crime was that he didn't follow "in our company." Christians have derailed more than a few good works over the centuries because they thought themselves appointed by God to police the Church. The Holy Spirit raises all kinds of new works which need to be serenely discerned, not systematically squelched simply because they are unique. "By their fruits you will know them," Jesus says (see Matthew 7:16). The lesson Our Lord wants to give is: Don't be so quick to judge others' motives. Give them the benefit of the doubt, and wait to see what their work produces. Is there anyone I'm keeping from doing good?
Conversation with Christ: Give me the grace to see people and actions through your eyes. Let me bring my standards in line with yours. Let me learn to look at a person's heart rather than his appearance. And above all, give me the wisdom never to stand in the way of people doing good for your Church.
Saturday, September 26, 2020
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Chúa Nhật thứ 26 Thường Niên.
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Chúa Nhật thứ 26 Thường Niên.
Câu chuyện dụ ngôn hôm nay cho chúng ta thấy cách làm việc trong Nước Thiên Chúa. Người cha đã cung ứng thức ăn, chỗ ở và mọi thứ đầy đủ, cần thiết cho những người con của mình. Người cha cũng thưởng cho các con của mình mỗi khi thực hiên những công việc xuất sắc trong vườn nho của riêng mình. Ông mong đợi những người con của mình thể hiện lòng biết ơn, lòng trung thành và kính trọng bằng cách thực hành những công việc hàng ngày của họ. Hôm nay, Chúa Giê-su hỏi những người Pha-ri-si một câu hỏi khiến họ buộc tội chính họ là những người thiếu trung tín với Thiên Chúa.Chúa Giêsu đang tìm kiếm đức tin nơi mỗi người chúng ta. Khi Thiên Chúa mời gọi chúng ta sống theo ý muốn của Ngài, chúng ta nên tin nhận điều đó và sống theo ý Ngài. Ngay cả những khi bất tiện và không được thoải mái như cuộc sống mà chúng ta muốn. Chúng ta cũng không nên tìm cách sống tránh né những cuộc sống không phù hợp với ước vọng của chúng ta. Điều rất quan trọng là chúng ta phải bỏ đi những cái nhìn không chân thực về cuộc sống.
Hôm nay, Chúa Giêsu khuyến khích chúng ta nên suy niệm, suy nghĩ về hậu quả của những lựa chọn của chúng ta, đặc biệt là những lựa chọn và quyết định không những chỉ trong hiện tại mà còn là lựa chọn cho cuộc sống vĩnh cửu mai sau. Nên nhớ rằng, những lựa chọn mà chúng ta đưa ra hôm nay sẽ ảnh hưởng đến tình trạng tương lai của chúng ta, không những là cả tương lai của chúng ta trên thế gian này mà còn ảnh hưởng đến cuộc sống đời sau.
Thiên Chúa muốn thay đổi tâm hồn của chúng ta để chúng ta thể hiện việc tôn trọng ý muốn của Ngài và làm theo ý muốn của Ngài bằng lời nói và việc làm chúng ta. Thiên Chúa ban cho mỗi người chúng ta kho một báu to lớn nhất; đó là sự an bình không thể phá hủy, niềm vui hạnh phúc và tình yêu thương trong Ngài trong Nước Chúa vĩnh cửu trên Trời. Chúng ta có thể đánh mất kho tàng đó nếu chúng ta từ chối ân sủng; Tình yêu và Sức mạnh cũng như phúc lành của Thiên Chúa đã giành cho chúng ta qua chiến thắng của Chúa Giêsu trên thập giá.
Chúa Giêsu là Thiên Chúa, Ngài đã ban cho chúng ta đầy tràn ơn thánh của Chúa Thánh Thần, Đấng hoạt động trong chúng ta và qua chúng ta vì sự vinh hiển của Thiên Chúa. Đối với chúng ta, chúng ta nên tìm cách làm đẹp lòng Thiên Chúa và tuân theo ý muốn và kế hoạch yêu thương của Ngài dành cho cuộc sống của chúng ta. Chúng ta hãy xin Chúa Thánh Thần ban cho chúng ta được bình an tràn đầy, niềm vui và sự công bình của nước Thiên Chúa trong lòng chúng ta (Rô-ma 14:17).
Reflection:
Today Jesus asks the Pharisees a question which brings them to accuse themselves of lacking fidelity to God. The story illustrates the way of God's kingdom. father amply provided for his son’s food, lodging, and everything they needed. The father also rewarded his sons with excellent work in his own vineyard. He expected them to show him gratitude, loyalty, and honor by doing their fair share of the daily work.
Jesus is looking for faith. Faith is the attitude that searches for authority in life higher than our own. When God calls us to live his will, we should in faith accept it and live it. Even if it seems inconvenient or uncomfortable to us, we should not look for ways to live outside it. It is very important that we bypass inauthentic outlooks on life.
Today, Jesus encourages us to think; to think about the consequences of our choices, especially the choices and decisions that will count not just for now but for eternity as well. The choices we make now will affect and shape our future, both our future on earth as well as in the life of the age to come.
God wants to change our hearts so that we will show by our speech and by our actions that we respect his will and do it. God offers each one of us the greatest treasure possible; indestructible peace, joy, and friendship with him in his everlasting kingdom.
We can lose that treasure if we refuse the grace; the free gift of God's blessing and strength which the Lord Jesus has won for us through his victory on the cross.
The Lord Jesus fills us with the gift of the Holy Spirit who works in and through us for the glory of God. For us, we should seek to please God and respect His will and loving plan for our life. Let’s allow the Holy Spirit to fill our heart with the peace, joy, and righteousness of God's kingdom (Romans 14:17).
Monday, September 21, 2020
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Bẩy Tuần 25 TN Luke 9:43-45
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Bẩy Tuần 25 TN Luke 9:43-45
Trong bài Tin Mừng hôm nay, Chúa Giêsu cho chúng ta sẽ biết rằng Chúa đang có một mối lo lắng và một gánh nặng rất to lớn, nếu như chúng ta chứng kiến được những lời cầu nguyện của Ngài trong khu vườn cây dầu vào đêm trước khi Ngài phải chịu nạn chúng ta có thể biết được Ngài đã phải mang cái gánh nặng này đã bao lâu rồi. Chúng ta có hai cách để đọc và suy nghĩ về bàiTin Mừng hôm nay.
1 - Chúng ta có thể đọc đó như là bài chia sẽ mà Chúa Giêsu muốn tâm sự. Ngài muốn chia sẻ gánh nặng này với những các môn đệ của Ngài và những ai muốn gần gũi với Ngài. Nhưng có lẽ họ không có đủ sức mạnh để hiểu và chịu đựng cái nỗi đau thương của Ngài.
2 - Chúng ta có thể đọc bài Tin Mừng hôm nay như là một lời cảnh cáo của Chúa Giêsu cho các môn đệ của Ngài biết rằng; Ngài muốn họ chuẩn bị tinh thần về sự đau khổ và cho cái chết của Ngài.
Trong những tháng năm cùng rao giảng tin mừng với các môn đệ, Chúa Giêsu có nói với các môn đệ nhiều lần rằng Ngài sẽ phải chịu đau khổ và sẽ bị giết. Nhưng có thể là họ không hiểu được những lời Chúa tiên báo này, họ chỉ mới nhớ lại những lời này sau khi Ngài đã chết đi và sống lại từ cõi chết và ghi nhớ lại những dữ kiện sau cái sự thực đau thương phũ phàng, với Thập Giá trong quá khứ, họ đã được biến đổi, và từ gánh nặng Thập giá đó họ sẽ có được sự mặc khải như bây giờ.
Chúa Giêsu biết những gì đang đến, sẽ đến và Ngài can đảm, cam kết sẽ thực thi theo ý muốn của Chúa Cha. Cho dù Ngài đã biết về sự đau khổ và phải chết trên Thập Giá nhục nhã trước khi Ngài đã tập đọc được những chữ cái đầu tiên hay Ngài chỉ biết được cái số phận của mình sau này, Ngài luôn luôn biết rằng Ngài sẽ làm theo ý Chúa Cha, mà không làm theo ý riêng mình. Lạy Chúa xin Giúp cúng con có can đảm để làm theo ý Chúa.
Reflection Saturday 25th Ordinary Time
I wonder when Jesus learned that he would die on the Cross, or if he always knew it. I mean to say, did he know it as a five-year-old boy or did he learn it at some point later in life? He was not taken by surprise: he teaches his disciples about the sufferings to come and he discusses the Cross with Elijah and Moses during the Transfiguration. We know that it was a great burden for him, as is clear from his prayers in the garden on the night before he died, but how long did he carry this burden?
It seems to me that there are two distinct ways to read the Gospel today. We could read it as Jesus trying to share this burden with those closest to him, but they are not strong enough to help bear it, or we could read it as Jesus, knowing that his disciples would not be able to bear the burden that he carried but also wanting to prepare his disciples for his death, tells them about the suffering and death to come, but prevents them from understanding.
In the year leading up to the Cross, Jesus told his disciples many times that he would suffer and die. They did not understand then, but after he died and rose from the dead they remembered these teachings. Remembering them after the fact, with the Cross in the past, they are transformed, from the burden they would have been, to the revelation they are now.
These words are a revelation because they teach us so much about Jesus Christ. Because of these words we know that he was fully aware of the death he would suffer, yet he does not say these words as a merely prescient person would. If you knew right now the death that awaits you, your first instinct would be to consider ways to avoid it, but Jesus does not begin planning ways to avoid his fate. He knows what is coming, and he is committed to doing the will of the Father. Whether he knew about the Cross before he learned his first words or if he did not know until the year before, he always knew that he would do the will of his Father, no matter what.
Opening Prayer: Lord Jesus, open my ears to hear your words, open my eyes to see as you see, and open my heart to love as you love. I ask for the grace of understanding.
Encountering Christ:
1. “The Son of Man Is to Be Handed Over”: The disciples of Jesus were amazed at his multiplication of loaves and fishes and the many healings he performed, but at this moment, Jesus intentionally diverted their attention away from his successes. Instead, for the second time, Jesus told them he would suffer and die. Still, it didn’t sink in. Human understanding is not always capable of grasping the ways of God. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways—oracle of the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, my thoughts higher than your thoughts (Isaiah 55:5-6). Jesus wanted the apostles to know that suffering fit into God’s plan, so he would tell them as often as they needed to hear it. When we are confused or seek discernment about the way God is working in our life, we need to persevere in prayer until we understand the message.
2. They Did Not Understand: The disciples did not understand, but they would eventually understand. Faith believes that what one does not currently see, one will see. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence do not rely; In all your ways be mindful of him, and he will make straight your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). Jesus told his disciples he would suffer so that when it came about, they would remember what he told them. When he was taken by the guards in the garden of Gethsemane, the apostles would recall Jesus’s words and be assured that, despite all appearances, God’s will was being done.
3. Afraid to Ask: What would have happened had the apostles asked for more details? On other occasions, when they asked Jesus to explain something they did not understand, he spoke more plainly. When we’re confused by life’s circumstances, do we seek clarity from God? What keeps us from asking him to explain? God always wants to hear from us. We can trust him with our confused feelings, with our anger, with our sorrow. He is pleased when we come to him as dependent children, asking for clarity about what we don’t understand.
Conversing with Christ: Dear Lord, when life gets confusing, help me trust in you even though my understanding is limited. Increase my faith! Help me to confront my fears, to place them before you.
Resolution: Lord, today, by your grace, I will spend some time in prayer, sincerely pouring out my heart, trusting that my loving Father hears my plea.
Saturday-25th Week in Ordinary 2013
Scripture frequently uses the image of a shepherd to speak of God’s protecting love and care for us, as in the passage from Jeremiah which serves as our responsorial Psalm today. People who have grown up with a religious life nourished by the word of Scripture have probably assimilated the image to such an extent that they find no problem with the image and are even moved to great devotion by singing “The Lord is my shepherd”.
Since, however, we mostly live in urban areas and not in a nomadic culture where actual shepherds do guide and care for their flocks of sheep, it is beneficial and at times even necessary for us to re-think the image of a shepherd and try to reach a real understanding of the truth which Scripture conveys to us. Many other biblical images are no longer part of our urbanized culture and social ambience and need to be re-thought.
Even Jesus’ disciples found it difficult to understand his message, partly because the notion of a suffering Messiah did not make any sense to them. So then, through prayer and reflection, we need to personalize our religion and cultivate a relationship with God that makes spiritual sense to us and strengthens our faith. Lord, bless us with the strengthening experience of Your protective love.
REFLECTION
In today's Gospel reading, Jesus tries to convey to his disciples a correct view of his mission, but they simply do not understand. The notion of a suffering Messiah is just too much for them to grasp. They even hesitate to inquire more deeply about it. They could understand Jesus' miracles. They could understand the traditional Jewish concept of a conquering Messiah. But the idea of a Messiah who would be killed was totally foreign to them. It seemed like complete defeat.
After Pentecost, however, their eyes would be opened. With the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, they would come "to understand fully the mystery, the plan God was pleased to decree in Christ to reconcile everything in his person both on earth and in the heavens, making peace through the blood of his cross." With the Spirit they could see beyond the externals of life and religion, and see into the very heart of God. This heart is a heart of love. It is also a heart of mystery. It lives by dying for those it loves. It is glorified in being humbled for those it loves. It is given abundant wealth by becoming poor so that those it loves might share in its wealth. These things are all paradoxes. They are all mystery. Yet they all boldly and clearly proclaim the truth of God's love. This love was most dearly revealed in the death of God's Son, Jesus Christ.
Do we understand this mystery, or do we still seek a Messiah who will come in worldly victory? Do we really seek the action of the Spirit in our life so we might understand this mystery? Do we really allow ourselves to be daily born again in his love by coming to share in a daily death to selfishness and sin? As a Church we must not allow ourselves to remain in ignorance. We must be born again in the true sense of the word.
1 - Chúng ta có thể đọc đó như là bài chia sẽ mà Chúa Giêsu muốn tâm sự. Ngài muốn chia sẻ gánh nặng này với những các môn đệ của Ngài và những ai muốn gần gũi với Ngài. Nhưng có lẽ họ không có đủ sức mạnh để hiểu và chịu đựng cái nỗi đau thương của Ngài.
2 - Chúng ta có thể đọc bài Tin Mừng hôm nay như là một lời cảnh cáo của Chúa Giêsu cho các môn đệ của Ngài biết rằng; Ngài muốn họ chuẩn bị tinh thần về sự đau khổ và cho cái chết của Ngài.
Trong những tháng năm cùng rao giảng tin mừng với các môn đệ, Chúa Giêsu có nói với các môn đệ nhiều lần rằng Ngài sẽ phải chịu đau khổ và sẽ bị giết. Nhưng có thể là họ không hiểu được những lời Chúa tiên báo này, họ chỉ mới nhớ lại những lời này sau khi Ngài đã chết đi và sống lại từ cõi chết và ghi nhớ lại những dữ kiện sau cái sự thực đau thương phũ phàng, với Thập Giá trong quá khứ, họ đã được biến đổi, và từ gánh nặng Thập giá đó họ sẽ có được sự mặc khải như bây giờ.
Chúa Giêsu biết những gì đang đến, sẽ đến và Ngài can đảm, cam kết sẽ thực thi theo ý muốn của Chúa Cha. Cho dù Ngài đã biết về sự đau khổ và phải chết trên Thập Giá nhục nhã trước khi Ngài đã tập đọc được những chữ cái đầu tiên hay Ngài chỉ biết được cái số phận của mình sau này, Ngài luôn luôn biết rằng Ngài sẽ làm theo ý Chúa Cha, mà không làm theo ý riêng mình. Lạy Chúa xin Giúp cúng con có can đảm để làm theo ý Chúa.
Reflection Saturday 25th Ordinary Time
I wonder when Jesus learned that he would die on the Cross, or if he always knew it. I mean to say, did he know it as a five-year-old boy or did he learn it at some point later in life? He was not taken by surprise: he teaches his disciples about the sufferings to come and he discusses the Cross with Elijah and Moses during the Transfiguration. We know that it was a great burden for him, as is clear from his prayers in the garden on the night before he died, but how long did he carry this burden?
It seems to me that there are two distinct ways to read the Gospel today. We could read it as Jesus trying to share this burden with those closest to him, but they are not strong enough to help bear it, or we could read it as Jesus, knowing that his disciples would not be able to bear the burden that he carried but also wanting to prepare his disciples for his death, tells them about the suffering and death to come, but prevents them from understanding.
In the year leading up to the Cross, Jesus told his disciples many times that he would suffer and die. They did not understand then, but after he died and rose from the dead they remembered these teachings. Remembering them after the fact, with the Cross in the past, they are transformed, from the burden they would have been, to the revelation they are now.
These words are a revelation because they teach us so much about Jesus Christ. Because of these words we know that he was fully aware of the death he would suffer, yet he does not say these words as a merely prescient person would. If you knew right now the death that awaits you, your first instinct would be to consider ways to avoid it, but Jesus does not begin planning ways to avoid his fate. He knows what is coming, and he is committed to doing the will of the Father. Whether he knew about the Cross before he learned his first words or if he did not know until the year before, he always knew that he would do the will of his Father, no matter what.
Opening Prayer: Lord Jesus, open my ears to hear your words, open my eyes to see as you see, and open my heart to love as you love. I ask for the grace of understanding.
Encountering Christ:
1. “The Son of Man Is to Be Handed Over”: The disciples of Jesus were amazed at his multiplication of loaves and fishes and the many healings he performed, but at this moment, Jesus intentionally diverted their attention away from his successes. Instead, for the second time, Jesus told them he would suffer and die. Still, it didn’t sink in. Human understanding is not always capable of grasping the ways of God. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways—oracle of the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, my thoughts higher than your thoughts (Isaiah 55:5-6). Jesus wanted the apostles to know that suffering fit into God’s plan, so he would tell them as often as they needed to hear it. When we are confused or seek discernment about the way God is working in our life, we need to persevere in prayer until we understand the message.
2. They Did Not Understand: The disciples did not understand, but they would eventually understand. Faith believes that what one does not currently see, one will see. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence do not rely; In all your ways be mindful of him, and he will make straight your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). Jesus told his disciples he would suffer so that when it came about, they would remember what he told them. When he was taken by the guards in the garden of Gethsemane, the apostles would recall Jesus’s words and be assured that, despite all appearances, God’s will was being done.
3. Afraid to Ask: What would have happened had the apostles asked for more details? On other occasions, when they asked Jesus to explain something they did not understand, he spoke more plainly. When we’re confused by life’s circumstances, do we seek clarity from God? What keeps us from asking him to explain? God always wants to hear from us. We can trust him with our confused feelings, with our anger, with our sorrow. He is pleased when we come to him as dependent children, asking for clarity about what we don’t understand.
Conversing with Christ: Dear Lord, when life gets confusing, help me trust in you even though my understanding is limited. Increase my faith! Help me to confront my fears, to place them before you.
Resolution: Lord, today, by your grace, I will spend some time in prayer, sincerely pouring out my heart, trusting that my loving Father hears my plea.
Saturday-25th Week in Ordinary 2013
Scripture frequently uses the image of a shepherd to speak of God’s protecting love and care for us, as in the passage from Jeremiah which serves as our responsorial Psalm today. People who have grown up with a religious life nourished by the word of Scripture have probably assimilated the image to such an extent that they find no problem with the image and are even moved to great devotion by singing “The Lord is my shepherd”.
Since, however, we mostly live in urban areas and not in a nomadic culture where actual shepherds do guide and care for their flocks of sheep, it is beneficial and at times even necessary for us to re-think the image of a shepherd and try to reach a real understanding of the truth which Scripture conveys to us. Many other biblical images are no longer part of our urbanized culture and social ambience and need to be re-thought.
Even Jesus’ disciples found it difficult to understand his message, partly because the notion of a suffering Messiah did not make any sense to them. So then, through prayer and reflection, we need to personalize our religion and cultivate a relationship with God that makes spiritual sense to us and strengthens our faith. Lord, bless us with the strengthening experience of Your protective love.
REFLECTION
In today's Gospel reading, Jesus tries to convey to his disciples a correct view of his mission, but they simply do not understand. The notion of a suffering Messiah is just too much for them to grasp. They even hesitate to inquire more deeply about it. They could understand Jesus' miracles. They could understand the traditional Jewish concept of a conquering Messiah. But the idea of a Messiah who would be killed was totally foreign to them. It seemed like complete defeat.
After Pentecost, however, their eyes would be opened. With the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, they would come "to understand fully the mystery, the plan God was pleased to decree in Christ to reconcile everything in his person both on earth and in the heavens, making peace through the blood of his cross." With the Spirit they could see beyond the externals of life and religion, and see into the very heart of God. This heart is a heart of love. It is also a heart of mystery. It lives by dying for those it loves. It is glorified in being humbled for those it loves. It is given abundant wealth by becoming poor so that those it loves might share in its wealth. These things are all paradoxes. They are all mystery. Yet they all boldly and clearly proclaim the truth of God's love. This love was most dearly revealed in the death of God's Son, Jesus Christ.
Do we understand this mystery, or do we still seek a Messiah who will come in worldly victory? Do we really seek the action of the Spirit in our life so we might understand this mystery? Do we really allow ourselves to be daily born again in his love by coming to share in a daily death to selfishness and sin? As a Church we must not allow ourselves to remain in ignorance. We must be born again in the true sense of the word.
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng thứ Sáu Tuần thứ 25 Thường Niên
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng thứ Sáu Tuần thứ 25 Thường Niên
Qua bài Tin Mừng hôm nay, chúng ta thử hỏi, nếu Chúa Giêsu cũng hỏi chúng cùng một câu hỏi “còn các con, các bảo Thầy là ai? ”, có lẽ chúng ta sẽ trả lời: “Thầy là Đức Chúa Trời, là Đức Chúa Con, là Ngôi Lời nhập thể làm người, là Đấng Tạo Hóa và Đấng Cứu Thế của chúng con, là Con một của Chúa Cha, là Chúa Đức Kitô, và là Thiên Chúa thật cũng là người thật ”. Không giống như các tông đồ trong thời của Chúa, bổn phận chính của chúng ta bây giờ là phải rao truyền tất cả những điều ấy tới tất cả mọi người để họ cùng nhận biết Chúa. Các tông đồ đã không chắc chắn Chúa Giêsu là ai. Họ biết được Ngài là ai, là Đấng nào sau khi chứng kiến cái chết và sự phục sinh của Người. Tất cả các tông đồ, trừ Thánh Gioan đã chết một cái chết vì đạo như Chúa Giêsu.Bây giờ chúng ta thực sự đã biết Chúa Giêsu là ai. Cuộc sống, cái chết và sự sống lại của Ngài đã chứng minh cho chúng ta. Chúng ta được chúc phúc vì Thiên Chúa đã ban cho chúng ta những ân sủng để chúng ta biết điều này. Chúng ta cẩn phải nhận ra tầm quan trọng về những kiến thức này cho chúng ta; sự sống đời đời của chúng ta đều phụ thuộc vào những kiến thức đấy.
Chúng ta phải biết rằng "từ nguyên thuỷ (khởi đầu) đã có Ngôi Lời, Ngôi Lời ở trong Thiên Chúa, và Ngôi Lời là Thiên Chúa;. Ngài đã ở cùng Thiên Chúa. Và qua Ngài mà tất cả mọi sự đã được thực hiện và Mọi sự đã nhờ Ngài mà thành sự và không Ngài thì không gì đã thành sự." (Ga 1: 1-3)
Dự định ban đầu của Thiên Chúa là ban sự sống đời đời cho con người chúng ta , nhưng vì sự bất tuân và niềm tự hào của con người, của tổ phụ con người cúng ta là Adong và Eva mà cúng ta đã đánh mất cái quyền lợi đấy. Vì vậy, để cứu rỗi cho chúng ta, Ngôi Lời đã trở nên Con Người phàm tục như chúng ta và Ngài đã sống giữa chúng ta, để chuộc lại cho chúng ta sự sống đời đời mà đã bị mất.
Chúng ta biết rằng Chúa Kitô đã chịu đau khổ và chịu chết trên thập giá cho chúng ta để chúng ta đạt được ơn cứu chuộc này. Chúng ta phải rao truyền tất cả những gì mà chúng ta đã biết được cho tất cả mọi người để họ sẽ không bị từ chối cuộc sống vĩnh cửu mà Đức Chúa Giêsu Kitô đã cứu chuộc cho chúng ta.
Reflection:
Today's Catholics, if asked the same question by Jesus, would probably answer: "God, God the Son, Our Creator, Our Lord and Savior, Our Redeemer, the Word Made Flesh, the Only Begotten Son of the Father, the son of Mary, the Christ, true God and true Man" - for all these, he truly is. Unlike the apostles of his time, our strict instruction now is to tell this to everyone.
The apostles were not sure who Jesus was. They learned who he was only much later, after witnessing his death and resurrection, and they proclaimed who Jesus was to all the nations so that they would be saved, even at the cost of their own lives. All the apostles, except St. John, died a martyr's death. Now we know who Jesus really is. His life, death and resurrection proved this to us. We are blessed because God gave us the grace to know this. We must realize how important this knowledge is to us; our eternal life depends on it. We know that " in the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God; he was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him and without him nothing came to be." (Jn 1:1-3) God originally intended eternal life to our first parents, but because of disobedience and pride, they lost it. So for our salvation, the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, in order to redeem for us the eternal life which was lost. We know that he suffered and died on the cross for us in order to achieve this redemption. We must tell what we know to everyone so that they would not reject this eternal life redeemed for us by Jesus Christ.
Opening Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I seek you in the solitude of my heart, and I hope to find you and accompany you in your suffering. Grant me the grace to understand the mysteries you came to reveal. Open my heart to discovering you in unexpected ways.
Encountering Christ:
1. Solitude: This passage states that the disciples were with Jesus, yet Jesus was praying in solitude. It is possible to enter within oneself and encounter God, even in the presence of others, as Jesus did. With his recollected senses, Jesus made himself attentive to the promptings of his conscience and the Holy Spirit. We practice meditation to be able to put aside the world and focus on being present to God. Through the daily “spiritual exercises” of recollection, prayer, and meditation, we seek solitude to make room in our busy minds and hearts for Jesus.
2. Prayer: Peter recognized that Jesus was more than an extraordinary man or a prophet. He knew that Jesus was the Messiah of God. How did he know? Maybe Peter had been praying alongside Jesus in those moments just before the question arose. Jesus told Peter in Matthew 16:17, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father.” The Father had inspired Peter directly to know Jesus was the Messiah. When we want to know the truth about something, prayer is our best recourse.
3. Suffering: Jesus’s message of redemption included suffering. No one avoids suffering in this life, but by following Jesus’s example, our suffering can be an act of unconditional, self-giving love. What a blessing! Whether we choose to suffer (as in a fast or practice of virtue) or whether it falls upon us unwillingly, suffering is always an opportunity to love as Jesus did. We signify our willingness to suffer whenever we make the sign of the cross. “When suffering comes, the sign of the cross is a sign of acceptance. It remembers that Jesus became a man and suffered for us and that we participate in Christ's suffering. The sign of the cross says, ‘I am willing to embrace suffering to share in Christ's suffering’” (November 22, 2004, ZENIT).
Conversing with Christ: Lord, I am grateful that you have sanctified suffering, giving my little sacrifices and offerings eternal merit. Come and be with me in all of my painful experiences and strengthen me with the comfort of your loving presence.
REFLECTION
In the first reading we are told that everything happens in God's time.Whenever we are down, worried or troubled, we cannot hear enough about how bad things are. When we finally get out of the woods, we always agree that God's time is always perfect and only then do we understand why what happened happened. Jesus did tell us that whatever we ask in his name we will receive but he did not say when or how. The truth is that Jesus is the Messiah: so he knows what is best for us. He desires nothing more than for us to have good lives and achieve success. Our troubles and problems arise from our selfishness and sinfulness.
In Christian life, faith is key. If we have faith, we continue to pray and trust in God's timing. We take trials with open arms and worry less because we are confident that in his time and in his way we will receive the blessings we asked for.
Encountering Christ:
1. Solitude: This passage states that the disciples were with Jesus, yet Jesus was praying in solitude. It is possible to enter within oneself and encounter God, even in the presence of others, as Jesus did. With his recollected senses, Jesus made himself attentive to the promptings of his conscience and the Holy Spirit. We practice meditation to be able to put aside the world and focus on being present to God. Through the daily “spiritual exercises” of recollection, prayer, and meditation, we seek solitude to make room in our busy minds and hearts for Jesus.
2. Prayer: Peter recognized that Jesus was more than an extraordinary man or a prophet. He knew that Jesus was the Messiah of God. How did he know? Maybe Peter had been praying alongside Jesus in those moments just before the question arose. Jesus told Peter in Matthew 16:17, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father.” The Father had inspired Peter directly to know Jesus was the Messiah. When we want to know the truth about something, prayer is our best recourse.
3. Suffering: Jesus’s message of redemption included suffering. No one avoids suffering in this life, but by following Jesus’s example, our suffering can be an act of unconditional, self-giving love. What a blessing! Whether we choose to suffer (as in a fast or practice of virtue) or whether it falls upon us unwillingly, suffering is always an opportunity to love as Jesus did. We signify our willingness to suffer whenever we make the sign of the cross. “When suffering comes, the sign of the cross is a sign of acceptance. It remembers that Jesus became a man and suffered for us and that we participate in Christ's suffering. The sign of the cross says, ‘I am willing to embrace suffering to share in Christ's suffering’” (November 22, 2004, ZENIT).
Conversing with Christ: Lord, I am grateful that you have sanctified suffering, giving my little sacrifices and offerings eternal merit. Come and be with me in all of my painful experiences and strengthen me with the comfort of your loving presence.
REFLECTION
In the first reading we are told that everything happens in God's time.Whenever we are down, worried or troubled, we cannot hear enough about how bad things are. When we finally get out of the woods, we always agree that God's time is always perfect and only then do we understand why what happened happened. Jesus did tell us that whatever we ask in his name we will receive but he did not say when or how. The truth is that Jesus is the Messiah: so he knows what is best for us. He desires nothing more than for us to have good lives and achieve success. Our troubles and problems arise from our selfishness and sinfulness.
In Christian life, faith is key. If we have faith, we continue to pray and trust in God's timing. We take trials with open arms and worry less because we are confident that in his time and in his way we will receive the blessings we asked for.
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Năm Tuần Tuần 25 Thường Niên
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Năm Tuần Tuần 25 Thường Niên
Bình thường, cuộc sống của chúng ta cũng giống như vua Hêrôđê nghĩa là chúng ta có "một cuộc sống rất bình thường" của người Công giáo. Có nghĩa là chúng ta tự để mình rơi vào trong một cái thói quen. Chúng ta đi nhà thờ, làm công việc hay nghĩa vụ của mình theo như “một cái máy” vì luật buộc như việc xưng tội một năm một lần, đi “xem lễ”, rước lễ, và rồi về nhà, thế là xong, cuộc sống xay vòng ngày qua ngày giống như thế. Bằng cách nào đó, đôi khi người Kitô giáo chúng ta có vẻ hầu như cảm nhận thấy rằng, cuộc sống đạo của chúng ta đạo chẳng có gì lấy làm hào hứng và vui thích cho lắm.Tất nhiên, chúng ta ai cũng muốn thấy Chúa Giêsu, nhưng chúng ta chẳng nỡ bỏ công sức ra để tìm kiếm Chúa. Chúng ta không nhìn thấy và không nhận ra sự cần thiết của sự từ bỏ hay thoát khỏi cái vỏ không trống rỗng để tìm kiếm những sung túc, sự sung sướng và sự thoải mái của chúng ta, để đáp ứng lại cái sự mời gọi của Chúa Giêsu, đặc biệt là những nơi Ngài hiện diện trong những vùng ngoại ô, làng quê héo lánh, hay ở nơi những người đang sống bên lề xã hội, những người nghèo khổ và bị ruồng bỏ. Nhưng chúng ta cũng đã nhận được sự cảnh báo là trong ngày Phán Xét, khi chúng ta được đưa ra trước quan toà Chúa Giêsu, chúng ta cũng đừng ngạc nhiên, nếu Chúa nói với chúng ta là: "Ta không biết ngươi là ai".
Lạy Chúa, xin giúp chúng con biết dùng thời gian của Chúa ban cho chúng con một cách khôn ngoan, để chúng con luôn thực sự và thành tâm đi tìm kiếm Chúa giữa lòng người và dòng đời mà chúng con đang sống, biết nhận ra Chúa trong người anh em nghèo khó, tật nguyền đang sốnh ngay nên cạnh chúng con.
Reflection
The Gospel reading yesterday described how Jesus sends his closest disciples on mission. This expansion of Jesus’ mission draws the attention of Herod Antiphas, the tetrarch of Galilee. Herod is curious about Jesus because he had heard about Jesus and the miracles Jesus was performing. As a result, Herod desires to see Jesus. Not because he really believed in Jesus' message but because he merely wanted to satisfy his curiosity. So, Herod remains in his palace waiting for the day when he can see Jesus. It never occurs to him to go out and look for Jesus. In the meantime, life goes on as usual. Often, we can become “life as usual” Catholics. We fall into a routine. We go to church, fulfill our religious obligations, receive Communion, and go home. Nothing changes, just as expressed by the writer in the first reading. Nothing really exciting happens to our faith and in our relationship with God. Somehow it seems as though there’s nothing joyful about being a Christian.
Of course, we would like to see Jesus but we do not look for him. We do not see the need to go forth from our comfort zone, outside our homes or parish, to meet Jesus, especially where he is present in the peripheries, in the marginalised, the poor and outcasts. But be warned. In the end when we do meet Jesus, do not be surprised if he says, “I do not know you”. Lord, help me to seek You always.
Opening Prayer: Lord Jesus, I believe in you, I hope in you, and I love you. Grant me a sacred reverence for supernatural phenomena and a holy fear of the Lord. Lord, I humbly ask for the presence of mind to be in awe before you and approach the tabernacle with great reverence.
Encountering Christ:
1. Worldly Power: Wordly power seduces the powerful into believing that he or she can control all outcomes. Hearing about Jesus agitated Herod, most likely because he had a guilty conscience for having beheaded John. Perhaps he also worried about the possibility of another prophet more popular than John. And he certainly felt that all the commotion was getting out of hand. Herod sought out Jesus to assuage his concerns, but might he also have had a glimmer of authentic curiosity? When we seek Jesus in prayer, are we prompted by anxiety, or do we look for him with hearts motivated by healthy, loving curiosity?
2. Quiet Power of the Supernatural: Herod’s power was characterized by rashness and self-aggrandizement. His killing of St. John the Baptist could not thwart the higher power of God. God’s power is infinitely beyond that of man’s. The power of the Creator is beauty, truth, and goodness. Our omnipotent God knew when John would die and allowed John to prepare the way for Jesus to begin his active ministry. We can always trust in the power and perfect timing of the Almighty, God, our Father. “To everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Let us place all our concerns in God’s hands, knowing that he will “work all things to the good for those who love him” (Romans 8:28).
3. Pure Intentions: Herod kept trying to see Jesus but to no avail. For a powerful king, one would think he should have seen Jesus whenever he pleased. Perhaps Jesus eluded Herod because he knew Herod’s intentions were selfish. Our Lord wants to be present to us, to fill us with his grace, and to give us every blessing, but being the perfect gentleman, he enters only hearts that welcome him with pure intention. “Therefore, my beloved, avoid idolatry” (1 Corinthians 10:14).
Conversing with Christ: Lord, I believe in your almighty power. You have the course of events in your hands. Grant me optimism, docility, and peace in knowing that you guide history. And help me to keep from my heart any sinful attraction to power, honor, or wealth. I want my heart to be a refuge for you, Lord.
Resolution: Lord, today, by your grace, I will take some time for prayer and check my heart to see if there are idols there.
REFLECTION
In the first reading the post-exilic prophet Haggai speaks about the rebuilding of the nation, beginning with the rebuilding of the Temple, where God dwells. Their growth and development as a nation will depend upon their faithfulness to their covenant with Yahweh. From the destruction of their Temple and nation and the shame, defeat and desolation of exile, God's chosen people hoped to rise again. Has the exile formed a chastened and renewed people?
In the Gospel reading King Herod wonders who this Jesus miracle-worker is: one of the prophets come back to life, Elijah-come-back, or John the Baptist raised to life? Though Herod respected John as "an upright and holy man" and "liked listening to him, although he became very disturbed whenever he heard him (Mk 6: 20), he had John beheaded at the request of the daughter of Herodias his consort.
We know that Herod wanted to meet Jesus. He finally met him when Pilate sent Jesus to him at his trial. But he got no reply from Jesus. (Lk 23: 6 -12)
Like Herod, we are asked the same question? Who is this Jesus of Nazareth? And, more important, what is he to us now? When Jesus asked his disciples at Caesarea Philippi, "Who do you say I am?" Peter replied, "You are the Messiah." What is our answer?
REFLECTION
The first reading from Ecclesiastes challenges us to reflect on the meaning of our lives. The message of Ecclesiastes which was written in the third century before Christ is reflected in the first reading: What is this world we live in about?
Hopefully with our Christian faith and Judeo-Greek-Roman background we are able to answer the questions and concerns raised in Ecclesiastes.
In the Gospel reading King Herod wonders who this Jesus miracle-worker is: one of the prophets come back to life, Elijah-come-back, or John the Baptist raised to life? Though Herod respected John as "an upright and holy man" and "liked listening to him, although he became very disturbed whenever he heard him" (Mk 6: 20), he had John beheaded at the request of the daughter of Herodias, his consort.
We know that Herod wanted to meet Jesus. He finally met him when Pilate sent Jesus to him at his trial. But he got no reply from Jesus. (Lk 23: 6 -12) Like Herod, we are asked the same question? Who is this Jesus of Nazareth? And, more important, what is he to us now? When Jesus asked his disciples at Caesarea Philippi, "Who do you say I am?" Peter replied, "You are the Messiah." What is our answer?
Reflection
Herod was the governor of the land. He had power and resources. He was "the authority" and had the wisdom to rule his people. And yet the wisdom of this world that was Herod's was confounded by the simple reality of Jesus' healing presence and his teachings. "He did not know what to think... I had John beheaded... Who is this man..." He lost his wisdom when confronted with the wonders or the miracles Jesus had done.
In our world today, there are still some miracles, great and small, happening now and then. If we are attuned to the movement of the Spirit in us, in others and in the world, we see these miracles, accept them and perceive God's action in them because of the Spirit in us. However, if God is not in us, and we act as if we are responsible for everything and anything, then we can be like Herod, confounded by simple yet divine realities. We could not believe this or that would be God's miracle. It may be just the fact that we can get up in the morning to live another day, or that we have been saved from a near catastrophic event like a plane crash or car accident, or that bitter enemies have reconciled, or the reality that the bread and wine have become the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ at Mass.
Let us pray for one another and ask the Lord to make us sensitive to His presence in the different events in our life and in the world. We know that He is with us always, but are we conscious of that? If we are, then, we would never be offending one another, and always be grateful to God for His presence.
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Tư Tuần 25 TN. (Lk. 9:1-6).
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Tư Tuần 25 TN. (Lk. 9:1-6).
“Anh em đừng mang gì đi đường, đừng mang gậy, bao bị, lương thực, tiền bạc, cũng đừng có hai áo” (Lk. 9:3). Đấy là những điều kiện mà Chúa Giêsu muốn đòi hỏi các môn đệ của Ngài phải thực hiện khi ra đi làm nhiệm vụ rao giẳng Tin Mừng. Nếu chúng ta chịu khó để ý thì thấy những quãng đường họ phải đi qua nào là đồi núi, quanh co và sỏi đá thế mà họ phải đi bộ để chu toàn sứ mạng của các ngài, vậy mà Chúa Giêsu bảo không mang gì hết để đáp ứng những nhu cầu tối thiểu của chúng ta, chắc chắn chúng ta sẽ thấy rằng đó chính là một nhu cầu đầy thách thức. Tuy nhiên, các môn đệ đã làm theo như lời Chúa Giêsu dạy, và tất cả mọi sự và mọi việc đã được diễn ra rất suông sẻ và thành công.
Trong cuộc sống hàng ngày của chúng ta, chúng ta đánh giá rất nhiều về những nhu cầu và các nguồn lực cần thiết để thực hiện những gì chúng ta cho là quan trọng. Đôi khi, cuộc sống của chúng ta đã trở nên tê bại, liệt cứng khi chúng ta không thành công trong việc thúc đẩy những kế hoạch của chúng ta bởi vì chúng ta thiếu lòng tin và lo sợ rằng chúng ta sẽ không có được những nguồn lực, ý chí cần thiết để tiến hành những dự án đó của chúng ta.
Tin Mừng hôm nay, Chúa Giêsu như muốn nhắc nhở với chúng ta là hãy hết lòng tin tưởng vào Ngài. Lẽ tất nhiên, điều này chỉ có thể thành công khi chúng ta thật lòng để tâm, để trí và thực sự thực hiện ý muốn của Thiên Chúa và chứ không phải chỉ đơn thuần nhằm mục đích riêng của chúng ta để tự tôn vinh và mang lai sự quang vinh cho chính mình.
Lạy Chúa Giêsu Kitô, xin ban cấp cho chúng con được những hồng ân của Chúa nhất là lòng tin tuởng và phó thác hoàn toàn trong tình yêu vô điều kiện của Chúa.Alpha
Wednesday 25th Week in Ordinary Time
“Take nothing for the journey — no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra shirt.” This is what Jesus required of the disciples as they set out on mission. If we take account of the distances to be covered by walking and the material needs to be met, we see that bringing nothing was a challenging demand. However, the disciples did as Jesus said and everything went smoothly.
In our daily life, we value very much the supply of resources necessary to carry out what we deem important. Sometimes, our lives become paralyzed as we fail to push forward plans because we are afraid that we will not obtain the resources needed. Jesus tells us just to go on trusting him wholeheartedly. Obviously, this is only possible when we are truly carrying out his will and not simply aiming at our self-glorification or fame.
Accepting the mission and acknowledging our weaknesses and unworthiness — just as Ezra recognizes in front of God the sins of his people — will make us more humble so as to be able to see God's hand in our lives. Only in this way, we are also led to meet the demands of our daily life and achieve our goals.
Lord Jesus Christ, grant us, we pray, the grace of full trust in Your unconditional love.
Opening Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I look to you as my Father and the source of my being. I know that your heart is heavy with sorrow over the sufferings of your creatures. I want to be with you and console you during this time of prayer. Help me to hear your heartbeats and to feel compassion for those who suffer.
Encountering Christ:
Apostleship: Anyone who has encountered the love of God becomes an apostle because, as St. Paul says, we are new creations...“the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come” (2 Corinthians 5:17). As the Lord’s apostles, we share in his power and authority. How many of us live our lives recognizing that, as followers of Christ, we can be the hands, feet, and mouthpiece of the Lord? “Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these, because I am going to the Father” (John 14:12).
Take Nothing: One of the conditions of being an apostle is a reliance on the Lord. We are called to give Christ, not ourselves. This requires emptying ourselves of personal interest, of receiving something in return, of relying on our talents. An apostle is an ambassador of the Lord, giving others Christ’s riches. When we detach from false securities, trusting in God as our one security and knowing that he will provide everything, we are truly instruments of His power and authority.
“Whatever House You Enter, Stay There”: If we encounter someone on the journey who is open to the Lord, God may ask us to stay there, to linger and deepen that relationship. There is wisdom in planting a seed deeply and cultivating the ground around it before moving on to plant another seed. As Scripture tells us, the seed that falls in the dry ground will not bear much fruit, but the one that falls in the fertile ground will bear much fruit. When we take the time to prepare the ground by patiently answering questions, providing quality resources, and testifying to Chris’s love in the little things of everyday life, we are sharing the healing power of Christ’s love with those to whom God sends us.
Conversing with Christ: Lord, I want to know your heart, to love what you love and to minister as you would. Grant me the grace of total security in you and reliance on you. Help me to be docile to your inspirations, reaching out to souls you place in my path and generously giving them all they need to encounter you.
REFLECTION 2019
In the first reading the people of Israel in exile in Babylon are allowed by King Cyrus to return and re-build Jerusalem and their nation. In their return they hoped to maintain the worship of Yahweh, their one true God.
In the Gospel reading Jesus sent his disciples out to the villages and towns to proclaim the good news and to heal the sick. Jesus instructed them to depend upon the people for their housing and other needs.
The disciples were, like their successors even in our time, human instruments helped and strengthened by the Holy Spirit in doing God's work of preaching the Good News and establishing the Kingdom of God. As Bishop Kenneth Untener of Saginaw wrote, we are "workers and not master builders, ministers and not messiahs, an opportunity for the Lord's grace to enter and do the rest." With God's grace, we should be confident and not fearful. For "with God nothing is impossible." (Lk 1: 37)
Meditation:
What kind of power and authority does God want you to exercise in your personal life and in your service of others? God's word has power to change and transform our lives. Jesus gave his apostles both power and authority to speak and to act in his name – to cast out evil spirits, to heal, and to speak the word of God. When Jesus spoke of power and authority he did something unheard of. He wedded power and authority with love and humility. The world and the sinful flesh seek power for selfish gain. Jesus teaches us to use it for the good of our neighbor.
Why does Jesus tell the apostles to travel light with little or no provision? Poverty of spirit frees us from greed and preoccupation with possessions and makes ample room for God's provision. The Lord wants his disciples to be dependent on him and not on themselves. He wills to work in and through each of us for his glory. Are you ready to handle the power and authority which God wishes you to exercise on his behalf? The Lord entrusts us with his gifts and talents. Are you eager to place yourself at his service, to do whatever he bids you, and to witness his truth and saving power to whomever he sends you?
"Lord Jesus, make me a channel of your grace and healing love that others may find life and freedom in you. Free me from all other attachments that I may joyfully pursue the things of heaven. May I witness to others the joy of the gospel both in word and deed."
Encountering Christ:
Apostleship: Anyone who has encountered the love of God becomes an apostle because, as St. Paul says, we are new creations...“the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come” (2 Corinthians 5:17). As the Lord’s apostles, we share in his power and authority. How many of us live our lives recognizing that, as followers of Christ, we can be the hands, feet, and mouthpiece of the Lord? “Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these, because I am going to the Father” (John 14:12).
Take Nothing: One of the conditions of being an apostle is a reliance on the Lord. We are called to give Christ, not ourselves. This requires emptying ourselves of personal interest, of receiving something in return, of relying on our talents. An apostle is an ambassador of the Lord, giving others Christ’s riches. When we detach from false securities, trusting in God as our one security and knowing that he will provide everything, we are truly instruments of His power and authority.
“Whatever House You Enter, Stay There”: If we encounter someone on the journey who is open to the Lord, God may ask us to stay there, to linger and deepen that relationship. There is wisdom in planting a seed deeply and cultivating the ground around it before moving on to plant another seed. As Scripture tells us, the seed that falls in the dry ground will not bear much fruit, but the one that falls in the fertile ground will bear much fruit. When we take the time to prepare the ground by patiently answering questions, providing quality resources, and testifying to Chris’s love in the little things of everyday life, we are sharing the healing power of Christ’s love with those to whom God sends us.
Conversing with Christ: Lord, I want to know your heart, to love what you love and to minister as you would. Grant me the grace of total security in you and reliance on you. Help me to be docile to your inspirations, reaching out to souls you place in my path and generously giving them all they need to encounter you.
REFLECTION 2019
In the first reading the people of Israel in exile in Babylon are allowed by King Cyrus to return and re-build Jerusalem and their nation. In their return they hoped to maintain the worship of Yahweh, their one true God.
In the Gospel reading Jesus sent his disciples out to the villages and towns to proclaim the good news and to heal the sick. Jesus instructed them to depend upon the people for their housing and other needs.
The disciples were, like their successors even in our time, human instruments helped and strengthened by the Holy Spirit in doing God's work of preaching the Good News and establishing the Kingdom of God. As Bishop Kenneth Untener of Saginaw wrote, we are "workers and not master builders, ministers and not messiahs, an opportunity for the Lord's grace to enter and do the rest." With God's grace, we should be confident and not fearful. For "with God nothing is impossible." (Lk 1: 37)
Meditation:
What kind of power and authority does God want you to exercise in your personal life and in your service of others? God's word has power to change and transform our lives. Jesus gave his apostles both power and authority to speak and to act in his name – to cast out evil spirits, to heal, and to speak the word of God. When Jesus spoke of power and authority he did something unheard of. He wedded power and authority with love and humility. The world and the sinful flesh seek power for selfish gain. Jesus teaches us to use it for the good of our neighbor.
Why does Jesus tell the apostles to travel light with little or no provision? Poverty of spirit frees us from greed and preoccupation with possessions and makes ample room for God's provision. The Lord wants his disciples to be dependent on him and not on themselves. He wills to work in and through each of us for his glory. Are you ready to handle the power and authority which God wishes you to exercise on his behalf? The Lord entrusts us with his gifts and talents. Are you eager to place yourself at his service, to do whatever he bids you, and to witness his truth and saving power to whomever he sends you?
"Lord Jesus, make me a channel of your grace and healing love that others may find life and freedom in you. Free me from all other attachments that I may joyfully pursue the things of heaven. May I witness to others the joy of the gospel both in word and deed."
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Ba tuần 25 TN
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Ba tuần 25 TN
Những lời nói của Chúa Giêsu trong bài Tin Mừng hôm nay có thể đã gây sốc mạnh cho những người sống trong một truyền thống tôn kính và vinh danh cha mẹ và gia đình như những người Á đông chúng ta. Nhưng Chúa Giêsu đã không quay lưng lại với gia đình của Ngài; trái lại, Ngài đã mở rộng cái gia đình đó. Ngài đã xây dựng một gia đình vĩ đại bao là gồm tất cả nhân loại. Ngài nhấn mạnh: Từ nay trở đi, không còn giới hạn tình yêu của chúng ta, mà tất cả thân nhân anh em ruột thịt của chúng ta trong Thiên Chúa. Tất cả những ai đáp lại lời gọi và tiếp nhận Tin Mừng của Thiên Chúa, được coi như là người thân trong gia đình của chúng ta. Trong một nghĩa nào đó, gia đình của chúng ta đã phát triển và rất to lớn.Những lời dạy của Chúa Giêsu là một thách thức cho chúng ta, để chúng ta biết phải mở rộng tấm lòng và tâm trí của chúng ta và để chúng ta có thể biết chấp nhận nhiều hơn không phải chỉ có những người gần gũi và thân yêu của chúng ta không mà thôi. Chúng ta hãy nhìn xung quanh chúng ta, Ai là những người thân cận trong gia đình của chúng ta? Nếu chúng ta làm được như vậy, liệu chúng ta có thay đổi thái độ và hành vi khi chúng ta đố xử với họ? Vũ trũ và thế giới này là nhà của chúng ta và tất cả mọi người trong nhân loại đều là những anh chị em hân nhân tiềm năng trong gia đình của chúng ta.
- Lạy Chúa, xin Chúa đừng để bất cứ hàng rào, ngăn cách nào có thể cản ngăn tình yêu của chúng con.
Meditation:
The words of Jesus sound a little harsh to our ears. He seems to dismiss them as he proclaims that those who do the will of God are his mother and brothers. The words must have been shocking to those living in a tradition that revered and honored parents and family. But Jesus was not turning his back on his family — on the contrary, he was expanding it. He came to build all of humanity into one family. From now on, he insisted, don't confine your love just to your blood relatives. All who respond to God can be counted as our family. In a sense, our family has grown enormous.
The words of Jesus are a challenge to broaden our hearts and minds and embrace more than just those who are near and dear to us. Let us look around — who can we count among our family? If we do so, will our behavior towards them change? The world is our home and all humanity is our potential family.
Lord, may there be no barriers to my love for others.
Opening Prayer: Lord Jesus, I love you and I thank you for calling me to the spiritual family of the church. I trust in you and I believe that you are my good and provident Father. As I reflect on your words, I humbly ask for the grace to see all as my brothers and sisters in the faith and to love them as members of my own family.
Encountering Christ:
1. The Father: Jesus was attentive to God the Father’s will and fulfilled it perfectly. And Jesus told us that those “who hear the word of God and act on it” become his family members. We are as important to Jesus as his own mother, his flesh and blood. In fact, he loves us so much he willingly died to save us from our sins. How grateful are we to God for our status as adopted sons and daughters?
2. The Family of the Church: At a papal audience in Rome, a World Youth Day, or similar event, participants often experience the church’s vibrancy and diversity. Being in the presence of hundreds or thousands of fellow believers gives the sensation of belonging to a huge family. It is peaceful, energizing, and strengthening. It helps us remember that when we are weak, we are supported spiritually by many others. When we are strong, we offer support to many others. “For as in one body we have many parts, and all the parts do not have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ and individually parts of one another” (Romans 12:4-5).
3. Family Inheritance: Family members share a common inheritance. As family members of the church, we have been promised eternal life with God in heaven. The saints, our brothers and sisters who have gone before us, have this to say about heaven: “Today I was in heaven, in spirit, and I saw its inconceivable beauties and the happiness that awaits us after death. I saw how all creatures give ceaseless praise and glory to God...This source of happiness is unchanging in its essence, but it is always new, gushing forth happiness for all creatures” (Sister Faustina). “There, good will shall be so ordered in us that we shall have no other desire than to remain there eternally” (St. Augustine). “My crown in heaven should shine with innocence and its flowers should be radiant as the sun. Sacrifices are the flowers Jesus and Mary chose” (St. Bernadette Soubirous). “Earth hath no sorrow that heaven cannot heal” (St. Thomas More).
Conversing with Christ: Lord, thank you for calling me to the family of the church. Increase my awareness of the spiritual bond I share with fellow believers, and may my actions reflect your love. Help me to prepare myself one day for eternity with you and the rest of my family.
Resolution: Lord, today by your grace I will reach out to a member of my faith community in whichever way I feel you inviting me to do so.
REFLECTION
The first reading tells us of the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem and the return of the people of Israel from exile in Babylon to the Promised Land. During this period of exile, with the guidance and teaching of prophets, Israel somehow learned more about their God who had promised to be always with them.
In the Gospel reading Jesus calls all of us to be his family, his mother, brothers and sisters, provided we "hear the word of God and do it."
When we have problems and difficult situations in our lives, we may feel we are in "exile," like the Jewish people driven away from their land and brought to Babylon. Being "in exile," we can reflect upon and hopefully realize what are our true values and our true homeland.. While in this valley of tears, we are indeed in a journey to our true home in heaven, to be with God our Father and Jesus our brother and redeemer.
Twenty-fifth Week in Ordinary Time Luke 8:19-21
Friends, in today’s Gospel Jesus identifies his disciples as his family. I want to say something about our becoming disciples in his family. Once we make the decision to follow Jesus then every other claimant to supremacy must fall away. As I’ve argued many times before, every one of us has something or some set of values that we consider greatest.
Perhaps it is money, material things, power, or the esteem of others. Perhaps it is your family, your kids, your wife, your husband.
None of this is false, and none of these things are bad. But when you place any of them in the absolute center of gravity, things go awry. When you make any of them your ultimate or final good, your spiritual life goes haywire. When you attach yourself to any of them with an absolute tenacity, you will fall apart.
Only when we make Christ the cornerstone of our lives are we truly ready for mission. Keep in mind that every encounter with God in the Bible conduces to mission, to being sent to do the work of the Lord. If we try to do this work while we are stuck to any number of attachments, we will fail. Period..
Suy Niệm thứ Hai tuần 25 thường niên
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Hai 25 TN
Đèn trong thế giới cổ xưa được xử dung với một chức năng quan trọng, giống như chúng ta ngày nay. Đèn phát ra ánh sáng và cho phép mọi người được nhìn thấy và làm việc trong bóng tối. Người Do Thái cũng hiểu "ánh sáng" như một biểu hiện của vẻ đẹp bên trong, sự thật, và sự tốt lành của Thiên Chúa. Trong ánh sáng của Ngài, chúng ta thấy ánh sáng (Thánh Vịnh 36:9). Lời Ngài là ngọn đèn mà hướng dẫn các bước của chúng ta (Thánh Vịnh 119:105). Ân sủng của Thiên Chúa không chỉ soi sáng cái bóng tối trong cuộc sống của chúng ta, nhưng nó cũng lấp đầy chúng ta với ánh sáng tâm linh, niềm vui và hòa bình. Chúa Giêsu đã dùng hình ảnh của một chiếc đèn để mô tả cách thức mà Ngài muốn các môn đệ phải sống trong ánh sáng chân lý và tình yêu của Ngài. Cũng như ánh sáng tự nhiên soi sáng bóng tối và cho giúp chúng ta thấy được một cách rõ ràng những hiện vật trước mắt, vì vậy ánh sáng của Chúa Kitô tỏa sáng trong trái tim của chúng ta và cho phép chúng ta được xem thấy những thực tế trên trời, trong vương quốc của Thiên Chúa.
Trong thực tế, nhiệm vụ của chúng ta là đem ánh sáng của Chúa Kitô để cho những người khác có thể nhìn thấy sự thật, chân lý của Tin Mừng phúc âm và được giải thoát khỏi sự mù quáng của tội lỗi và sự lừa dối. Chúa Giêsu Cho Chúng ta biết rằng không có gì có thể dấu kín hay giữ được bí mật lâu dài. Chúng ta có thể cố để giấu diếm người khác, hay cả chính chúng ta, hay Thiên Chúa về những bí mật riêng của chúng ta. Nhưng làm thế nào chúng ta có thể cố nhắm mắt được vì những hậu quả của con đường tội lỗi và những thói quen xấu của chúng ta, ngay cả khi chúng ta biết những hậu quả sẽ xãy đến với chúng ta.
Thiên Chúa biết hết tất cả mọi sự, vì Ngài nhìn thấy tất cả và biết mọi sự trong tâm hồn thầm kín của chúng ta. Những người sống trong ánh sáng của Thiên Chúa và những người tìm kiếm Chân lý hay sự thật của Ngài, sẽ được hưởng sự tự do tuyệt vời và niềm vui vô tận. Những người lắng nghe Thiên Chúa và biết chú ý đến Lời của Ngài sẽ nhận được nơi Ngài rất nhiều sự phong phú của trí tuệ, sự hướng dẫn, sự hòa bình, và phúc lành của Ngài ban cho. Chúng ta có sẵn sáng và mong được có những niềm vui và được tự do sống trong ánh sáng của Thiên Chúa?
Meditation:
What does the image of light and a lamp tell us about God's kingdom? Lamps in the ancient world served a vital function, much like they do today. They enable people to see and work in the dark and to avoid stumbling. The Jews also understood "light" as an expression of the inner beauty, truth, and goodness of God. In his light we see light ( Psalm 36:9). His word is a lamp that guides our steps (Psalm 119:105). God's grace not only illumines the darkness in our lives, but it also fills us with spiritual light, joy, and peace. Jesus used the image of a lamp to describe how his disciples are to live in the light of his truth and love. Just as natural light illumines the darkness and enables one to see visually, so the light of Christ shines in the hearts of believers and enables us to see the heavenly reality of God's kingdom. In fact, our mission is to be light-bearers of Christ so that others may see the truth of the gospel and be freed from the blindness of sin and deception.
Jesus remarks that nothing can remain hidden or secret. We can try to hide things from others, from ourselves, and from God. How tempting to shut our eyes from the consequences of our sinful ways and bad habits, even when we know what those consequences are. And how tempting to hide them from others and even from God. But, nonetheless, everything is known to God who sees all. There is great freedom and joy for those who live in God's light and who seek his truth. Those who listen to God and heed his voice will receive more from him – abundance of wisdom, guidance, peace, and blessing. Do you know the joy and freedom of living in God's light?
"Lord Jesus, you guide me by the light of your saving truth. Fill my heart and mind with your light and truth and free me from the blindness of sin and deception that I may see your ways clearly and understand your will for my life. May I radiate your light and truth to others in word and deed."
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Hai 25 TN
Qua bài Tin Mừng hôm nay, Chúa Giêsu đã dùng hình ảnh của một chiếc đèn để mô tả cách mà Ngài muốn các môn đệ phải sống trong ánh sáng chân lý và tình yêu của Ngài. Cũng như ánh sáng tự nhiên soi sáng bóng tối và cho giúp chúng ta thấy được một cách rõ ràng những hiện vật trước mắt, vì vậy ánh sáng của Chúa Kitô tỏa sáng trong trái tim của chúng ta và cho phép chúng ta được xem thấy những thực tế trên trời, trong vương quốc của Thiên Chúa.
Trong thực tế, nhiệm vụ của chúng ta là đem ánh sáng của Chúa Kitô để cho những người khác có thể nhìn thấy sự thật, chân lý của Tin Mừng phúc âm và để giải thoát sự mù quáng của tội lỗi và sự lừa dối. Chúa Giêsu cho chúng ta biết rằng không có gì có thể dấu kín hay giữ được bí mật lâu dài. Chúng ta có thể cố để giấu diếm người khác, hay cả chính chúng ta về những bí mật riêng của chúng ta. Nhưng làm thế nào chúng ta có thể giấu được Thiên Chúa và cố nhắm mắt được với những hậu quả của con đường tội lỗi và những thói quen xấu của chúng ta, ngay cả khi chúng ta biết những hậu quả sẽ xãy đến cho chúng ta.
Thiên Chúa biết hết tất cả mọi sự, vì Ngài nhìn thấy tất cả và biết mọi sự trong tâm hồn thầm kín của chúng ta. Những người sống trong ánh sáng của Thiên Chúa và những người tìm kiếm Chân lý hay sự thật của Ngài, sẽ được hưởng sự tự do tuyệt vời và niềm vui vô tận. Những người lắng nghe Thiên Chúa và biết chú ý đến Lời của Ngài sẽ nhận được nơi Ngài rất nhiều sự phong phú của trí tuệ, sự hướng dẫn, sự hòa bình, và phúc lành của Ngài ban cho. Chúng ta có sẵn sáng và mong được có những niềm vui và được tự do sống trong ánh sáng của Thiên Chúa?
Reflection
The light, in today's gospel, is likened to Christ who came to earth to lead the way, to show the path. When Jesus was to talking to his disciples, he was talking about himself and he was saying that soon this prophecy of the Messiah would be realized and the truth will be out. Those who listened and followed will learn to understand yet those who thought they knew what they knew will soon realize the fallacy of what they believed in. Thus, they will be stripped of their spiritual authority and those who followed Christ will be given more responsibilities in spreading the Word.
In our current situation, where the birth, the death and the resurrection is part of our spiritual history, as Christians we are the light that Christ mentioned in Luke 8:16. As we walk in faith, it is but inevitable that people will notice us especially when we do what is opposite of the norm. As followers of Christ, it is in our nature to act responsibly in any situation. This we do not do boastfully or with pride but with humility and faith that in all of this there is God whom we are serving faithfully. In turn, it is reminding us to pay heed and not act as if we are better than other people in our community lest we gull ourselves into believing that we are infallible. Instead, Jesus instructs us to listen and to act. Mere listening is a superficial act. When one does what one is told, people will see the depth of our faith. As Christians it is very easy to fall into complacency, where we think the mere routine of going to church, listening to homilies, getting involved in parish socials is enough. The act of true faith is manifested in how one openly shares with his brethren. In the Last Supper, Jesus enjoins us to do what he does. As Jesus willingly and gratefully served others, so must we be to our fellowmen. Have you prayed for the grace of true service lately? It is costly, but then again Jesus did this to show
Đèn trong thế giới cổ xưa được xử dung với một chức năng quan trọng, giống như chúng ta ngày nay. Đèn phát ra ánh sáng và cho phép mọi người được nhìn thấy và làm việc trong bóng tối. Người Do Thái cũng hiểu "ánh sáng" như một biểu hiện của vẻ đẹp bên trong, sự thật, và sự tốt lành của Thiên Chúa. Trong ánh sáng của Ngài, chúng ta thấy ánh sáng (Thánh Vịnh 36:9). Lời Ngài là ngọn đèn mà hướng dẫn các bước của chúng ta (Thánh Vịnh 119:105). Ân sủng của Thiên Chúa không chỉ soi sáng cái bóng tối trong cuộc sống của chúng ta, nhưng nó cũng lấp đầy chúng ta với ánh sáng tâm linh, niềm vui và hòa bình. Chúa Giêsu đã dùng hình ảnh của một chiếc đèn để mô tả cách thức mà Ngài muốn các môn đệ phải sống trong ánh sáng chân lý và tình yêu của Ngài. Cũng như ánh sáng tự nhiên soi sáng bóng tối và cho giúp chúng ta thấy được một cách rõ ràng những hiện vật trước mắt, vì vậy ánh sáng của Chúa Kitô tỏa sáng trong trái tim của chúng ta và cho phép chúng ta được xem thấy những thực tế trên trời, trong vương quốc của Thiên Chúa.
Trong thực tế, nhiệm vụ của chúng ta là đem ánh sáng của Chúa Kitô để cho những người khác có thể nhìn thấy sự thật, chân lý của Tin Mừng phúc âm và được giải thoát khỏi sự mù quáng của tội lỗi và sự lừa dối. Chúa Giêsu Cho Chúng ta biết rằng không có gì có thể dấu kín hay giữ được bí mật lâu dài. Chúng ta có thể cố để giấu diếm người khác, hay cả chính chúng ta, hay Thiên Chúa về những bí mật riêng của chúng ta. Nhưng làm thế nào chúng ta có thể cố nhắm mắt được vì những hậu quả của con đường tội lỗi và những thói quen xấu của chúng ta, ngay cả khi chúng ta biết những hậu quả sẽ xãy đến với chúng ta.
Thiên Chúa biết hết tất cả mọi sự, vì Ngài nhìn thấy tất cả và biết mọi sự trong tâm hồn thầm kín của chúng ta. Những người sống trong ánh sáng của Thiên Chúa và những người tìm kiếm Chân lý hay sự thật của Ngài, sẽ được hưởng sự tự do tuyệt vời và niềm vui vô tận. Những người lắng nghe Thiên Chúa và biết chú ý đến Lời của Ngài sẽ nhận được nơi Ngài rất nhiều sự phong phú của trí tuệ, sự hướng dẫn, sự hòa bình, và phúc lành của Ngài ban cho. Chúng ta có sẵn sáng và mong được có những niềm vui và được tự do sống trong ánh sáng của Thiên Chúa?
Meditation:
What does the image of light and a lamp tell us about God's kingdom? Lamps in the ancient world served a vital function, much like they do today. They enable people to see and work in the dark and to avoid stumbling. The Jews also understood "light" as an expression of the inner beauty, truth, and goodness of God. In his light we see light ( Psalm 36:9). His word is a lamp that guides our steps (Psalm 119:105). God's grace not only illumines the darkness in our lives, but it also fills us with spiritual light, joy, and peace. Jesus used the image of a lamp to describe how his disciples are to live in the light of his truth and love. Just as natural light illumines the darkness and enables one to see visually, so the light of Christ shines in the hearts of believers and enables us to see the heavenly reality of God's kingdom. In fact, our mission is to be light-bearers of Christ so that others may see the truth of the gospel and be freed from the blindness of sin and deception.
Jesus remarks that nothing can remain hidden or secret. We can try to hide things from others, from ourselves, and from God. How tempting to shut our eyes from the consequences of our sinful ways and bad habits, even when we know what those consequences are. And how tempting to hide them from others and even from God. But, nonetheless, everything is known to God who sees all. There is great freedom and joy for those who live in God's light and who seek his truth. Those who listen to God and heed his voice will receive more from him – abundance of wisdom, guidance, peace, and blessing. Do you know the joy and freedom of living in God's light?
"Lord Jesus, you guide me by the light of your saving truth. Fill my heart and mind with your light and truth and free me from the blindness of sin and deception that I may see your ways clearly and understand your will for my life. May I radiate your light and truth to others in word and deed."
Suy Niệm Tin Mừng Thứ Hai 25 TN
Qua bài Tin Mừng hôm nay, Chúa Giêsu đã dùng hình ảnh của một chiếc đèn để mô tả cách mà Ngài muốn các môn đệ phải sống trong ánh sáng chân lý và tình yêu của Ngài. Cũng như ánh sáng tự nhiên soi sáng bóng tối và cho giúp chúng ta thấy được một cách rõ ràng những hiện vật trước mắt, vì vậy ánh sáng của Chúa Kitô tỏa sáng trong trái tim của chúng ta và cho phép chúng ta được xem thấy những thực tế trên trời, trong vương quốc của Thiên Chúa.
Trong thực tế, nhiệm vụ của chúng ta là đem ánh sáng của Chúa Kitô để cho những người khác có thể nhìn thấy sự thật, chân lý của Tin Mừng phúc âm và để giải thoát sự mù quáng của tội lỗi và sự lừa dối. Chúa Giêsu cho chúng ta biết rằng không có gì có thể dấu kín hay giữ được bí mật lâu dài. Chúng ta có thể cố để giấu diếm người khác, hay cả chính chúng ta về những bí mật riêng của chúng ta. Nhưng làm thế nào chúng ta có thể giấu được Thiên Chúa và cố nhắm mắt được với những hậu quả của con đường tội lỗi và những thói quen xấu của chúng ta, ngay cả khi chúng ta biết những hậu quả sẽ xãy đến cho chúng ta.
Thiên Chúa biết hết tất cả mọi sự, vì Ngài nhìn thấy tất cả và biết mọi sự trong tâm hồn thầm kín của chúng ta. Những người sống trong ánh sáng của Thiên Chúa và những người tìm kiếm Chân lý hay sự thật của Ngài, sẽ được hưởng sự tự do tuyệt vời và niềm vui vô tận. Những người lắng nghe Thiên Chúa và biết chú ý đến Lời của Ngài sẽ nhận được nơi Ngài rất nhiều sự phong phú của trí tuệ, sự hướng dẫn, sự hòa bình, và phúc lành của Ngài ban cho. Chúng ta có sẵn sáng và mong được có những niềm vui và được tự do sống trong ánh sáng của Thiên Chúa?
Reflection
The light, in today's gospel, is likened to Christ who came to earth to lead the way, to show the path. When Jesus was to talking to his disciples, he was talking about himself and he was saying that soon this prophecy of the Messiah would be realized and the truth will be out. Those who listened and followed will learn to understand yet those who thought they knew what they knew will soon realize the fallacy of what they believed in. Thus, they will be stripped of their spiritual authority and those who followed Christ will be given more responsibilities in spreading the Word.
In our current situation, where the birth, the death and the resurrection is part of our spiritual history, as Christians we are the light that Christ mentioned in Luke 8:16. As we walk in faith, it is but inevitable that people will notice us especially when we do what is opposite of the norm. As followers of Christ, it is in our nature to act responsibly in any situation. This we do not do boastfully or with pride but with humility and faith that in all of this there is God whom we are serving faithfully. In turn, it is reminding us to pay heed and not act as if we are better than other people in our community lest we gull ourselves into believing that we are infallible. Instead, Jesus instructs us to listen and to act. Mere listening is a superficial act. When one does what one is told, people will see the depth of our faith. As Christians it is very easy to fall into complacency, where we think the mere routine of going to church, listening to homilies, getting involved in parish socials is enough. The act of true faith is manifested in how one openly shares with his brethren. In the Last Supper, Jesus enjoins us to do what he does. As Jesus willingly and gratefully served others, so must we be to our fellowmen. Have you prayed for the grace of true service lately? It is costly, but then again Jesus did this to show
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