Saturday of the Fifteenth Week in
Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 394
Lectionary: 394
Woe to those who plan iniquity,
and work out evil on their couches;
In the morning light they accomplish it
when it lies within their power.
They covet fields, and seize them;
houses, and they take them;
They cheat an owner of his house,
a man of his inheritance.
Therefore thus says the LORD:
Behold, I am planning against this race an evil
from which you shall not withdraw your necks;
Nor shall you walk with head high,
for it will be a time of evil.
On that day a satire shall be sung over you,
and there shall be a plaintive chant:
"Our ruin is complete,
our fields are portioned out among our captors,
The fields of my people are measured out,
and no one can get them back!"
Thus you shall have no one
to mark out boundaries by lot
in the assembly of the LORD.
and work out evil on their couches;
In the morning light they accomplish it
when it lies within their power.
They covet fields, and seize them;
houses, and they take them;
They cheat an owner of his house,
a man of his inheritance.
Therefore thus says the LORD:
Behold, I am planning against this race an evil
from which you shall not withdraw your necks;
Nor shall you walk with head high,
for it will be a time of evil.
On that day a satire shall be sung over you,
and there shall be a plaintive chant:
"Our ruin is complete,
our fields are portioned out among our captors,
The fields of my people are measured out,
and no one can get them back!"
Thus you shall have no one
to mark out boundaries by lot
in the assembly of the LORD.
Responsorial
PsalmPS 10:1-2, 3-4, 7-8, 14
R. (12b) Do not
forget the poor, O Lord!
Why, O LORD, do you stand aloof?
Why hide in times of distress?
Proudly the wicked harass the afflicted,
who are caught in the devices the wicked have contrived.
R. Do not forget the poor, O Lord!
For the wicked man glories in his greed,
and the covetous blasphemes, sets the LORD at nought.
The wicked man boasts, "He will not avenge it";
"There is no God," sums up his thoughts.
R. Do not forget the poor, O Lord!
His mouth is full of cursing, guile and deceit;
under his tongue are mischief and iniquity.
He lurks in ambush near the villages;
in hiding he murders the innocent;
his eyes spy upon the unfortunate.
R. Do not forget the poor, O Lord!
You do see, for you behold misery and sorrow,
taking them in your hands.
On you the unfortunate man depends;
of the fatherless you are the helper.
R. Do not forget the poor, O Lord!
Why, O LORD, do you stand aloof?
Why hide in times of distress?
Proudly the wicked harass the afflicted,
who are caught in the devices the wicked have contrived.
R. Do not forget the poor, O Lord!
For the wicked man glories in his greed,
and the covetous blasphemes, sets the LORD at nought.
The wicked man boasts, "He will not avenge it";
"There is no God," sums up his thoughts.
R. Do not forget the poor, O Lord!
His mouth is full of cursing, guile and deceit;
under his tongue are mischief and iniquity.
He lurks in ambush near the villages;
in hiding he murders the innocent;
his eyes spy upon the unfortunate.
R. Do not forget the poor, O Lord!
You do see, for you behold misery and sorrow,
taking them in your hands.
On you the unfortunate man depends;
of the fatherless you are the helper.
R. Do not forget the poor, O Lord!
Alleluia2 COR 5:19
R. Alleluia,
alleluia.
God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ,
and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ,
and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GospelMT 12:14-21
The Pharisees went out and took counsel against Jesus
to put him to death.
When Jesus realized this, he withdrew from that place.
Many people followed him, and he cured them all,
but he warned them not to make him known.
This was to fulfill what had been spoken through Isaiah the prophet:
Behold, my servant whom I have chosen,
my beloved in whom I delight;
I shall place my Spirit upon him,
and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles.
He will not contend or cry out,
nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets.
A bruised reed he will not break,
a smoldering wick he will not quench,
until he brings justice to victory.
And in his name the Gentiles will hope.
to put him to death.
When Jesus realized this, he withdrew from that place.
Many people followed him, and he cured them all,
but he warned them not to make him known.
This was to fulfill what had been spoken through Isaiah the prophet:
Behold, my servant whom I have chosen,
my beloved in whom I delight;
I shall place my Spirit upon him,
and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles.
He will not contend or cry out,
nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets.
A bruised reed he will not break,
a smoldering wick he will not quench,
until he brings justice to victory.
And in his name the Gentiles will hope.
Meditation: Until Jesus brings justice to
victory
How do we achieve success and victory in our lives? In
everyone's life there are key moments or turning points on which the whole of
one's life hinges. The mounting confrontation between the Pharisees and Jesus
was such a decisive event and crisis. The religious leaders became intolerant
of Jesus because of their prejudice. Nothing that Jesus would do or say from
this point on would be right in their eyes. They conspired, not simply to
oppose Jesus but to eliminate him.
Courage and determination to do God's will
Jesus met this defiance with courage and determination to do his Father's will. He used the crisis to teach his disciples an important lesson for God's way to success and victory. The only way to glory in God's kingdom is through the cross - the cross of suffering and humiliation - which Jesus endured for our sake and for our salvation. We, too, are called to take up our cross every day - to die to sin, selfishness, envy, pride, strife, and hatred - and to lay down our lives in humble service and love for one another, just as Jesus did for our sake.
Jesus met this defiance with courage and determination to do his Father's will. He used the crisis to teach his disciples an important lesson for God's way to success and victory. The only way to glory in God's kingdom is through the cross - the cross of suffering and humiliation - which Jesus endured for our sake and for our salvation. We, too, are called to take up our cross every day - to die to sin, selfishness, envy, pride, strife, and hatred - and to lay down our lives in humble service and love for one another, just as Jesus did for our sake.
Matthew quotes from the "Suffering Servant"
prophecies of Isaiah to explain how Jesus the Messiah would accomplish his
mission - not through crushing power - but through love and sacrificial service
(Isaiah 42:1-4). In place of a throne Jesus chose to mount the cross and wear a
crown of thorns. He was crucified as our Lord and King (John 19:19; Philippians
2:11) There is no greater proof of God's love for us than the sacrificial death
of his only begotten Son for our sake and our salvation (John 3:16).
Jesus died not only for the Jews but for all the
Gentile nations as well. Isaiah had prophesied centuries before, that the
Messiah would bring justice to the Gentiles. To the Greek mind, justice
involved giving to God and to one's fellow citizen that which is their due
(whatever is owed to them). Jesus taught his disciples to give God not only his
due, but to love him without measure just as he loves us unconditionally -
without limits or reservation.
Justice tempered with love and mercy
Jesus brings the justice of God's kingdom tempered with divine love and mercy. He does not bruise the weak or treat them with contempt, but rather shows understanding and compassion. He does not discourage the fainthearted but gives hope, courage, and the strength to persevere through trying circumstances. No trials, failings, and weaknesses can keep us from the mercy and help which Jesus offers to everyone who asks. His grace is sufficient for every moment, every situation, and every challenge we face. When you meet trials and difficulties, do you rely on God's help and grace?
Jesus brings the justice of God's kingdom tempered with divine love and mercy. He does not bruise the weak or treat them with contempt, but rather shows understanding and compassion. He does not discourage the fainthearted but gives hope, courage, and the strength to persevere through trying circumstances. No trials, failings, and weaknesses can keep us from the mercy and help which Jesus offers to everyone who asks. His grace is sufficient for every moment, every situation, and every challenge we face. When you meet trials and difficulties, do you rely on God's help and grace?
"Lord Jesus, your love and mercy knows no bounds.
Give me strength when I am weak, hope when I am discouraged, peace when I am
troubled, consolation when I am sad, and understanding when I am perplexed.
Make me an instrument of your love and peace to those who are troubled and
without hope."
Daily Quote from the early church fathers: The Savior's meekness, by John
Chrysostom (347-407 AD)
"The prophet celebrated in advance both the
Savior's meekness right alongside his unspeakable power. Thereby he opened to
the Gentiles a great and effective door. Isaiah also foretold the ills that
were to overtake the Jews. He foreknew the Son's oneness with the Father:
'Israel is my chosen, my soul has accepted him; I have put my Spirit upon him'
(Isaiah 42:1). For it is not as an adversary that Christ transcends the law, as
if he were an enemy of the Lawgiver, but as though he were of one mind with the
Lawgiver and held to the very same purposes. Then, proclaiming the Lord's
meekness, Isaiah said, 'He shall not cry nor lift up his voice' (Isaiah 42:20).
For his desire indeed was to enable healing in their presence. But since they
pushed him away, he did not contend any further against their opposition." (excerpt from THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW, HOMILY
40.2.1)
SATURDAY,
JULY 21, MATTHEW 12:14-21
Weekday
MATTHEW 12:14-21
(Micah 2:1-5; Psalm 10)
Weekday
MATTHEW 12:14-21
(Micah 2:1-5; Psalm 10)
KEY VERSE: "Behold, my servant whom I have chosen, my beloved in whom I delight" (v. 18).
TO KNOW: When Jesus cured a man on the Sabbath (Mt 12:9-13), the religious leaders were outraged and they plotted to put Jesus to death. Jesus quoted the prophet Isaiah to show that he was the fulfillment of God's suffering servant (Is 42:1-4). Many people expected the Messiah to come with power to overcome their enemies. Instead, Jesus came in meekness and humility, offering hope to those who were burdened. Imbued with God's Spirit, Jesus proclaimed justice for all who were crushed under the weight of oppression (Mt 11:28-30). As opposition to Jesus grew, he departed from that area. Many followed him and were healed. The world will come to know Jesus when Christians imitate his example of compassionate service to those in need.
TO LOVE: Do my actions promote peace or contention?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to follow your example by working for peace and justice.
Optional Memorial of Saint
Lawrence of Brindisi, priest and doctor of the Church
Lawrence of Brindisi joined the Capuchin Friars at age 16. Ordained a priest, he taught theology and served as linguist and military chaplain. Lawrence rallied the German princes to fight the Turks, and was asked to lead the army into battle carrying no weapon but a crucifix. The Turks were completely defeated. Lawrence was made Master General of his order in 1602. As a Diplomat, he carried out important and successful peace missions to Munich and Madrid. Lawrence was an effective and forceful preacher, and writer of catechisms. In 1956, the Capuchin order compiled fifteen volumes of his sermons, letters and writings. He was proclaimed Apostolic Doctor of the Church by Pope John XXIII in 1959.
www.togetherwithgodsword.com
Saturday 21 July
2018
Micah 2:1-5. Psalm 9B(10):1-4, 7-8, 14. Matthew 12:14-21.
Do not forget the poor, O Lord!—Psalm 9B(10):1-4, 7-8, 14.
‘In him the nations will put their hope.’
Today’s Gospel speaks of Jesus as the chosen one, the gentle
servant of God. And yet, despite being chosen by the Lord, he is driven out by
the Pharisees. He retreats to a safe place, not in weakness or fear, but with
foresight.
As servant of God, Jesus is God’s beloved. He is animated by the
Spirit and thus he is able to discern the way ahead in peace and tranquillity.
May we too, through Jesus, discern where our place is, and have
the foresight to engage when appropriate, and withdraw when prudent.
Let us know when to remain in prayer and reflection, and when to
cry out for justice.
Saint Lawrence of Brindisi
Saint of the Day for July 21
(July 22, 1559 – July 22, 1619)
 |
| Statue of Saint Lawrence of Brindisi on the church at the Capuchin Friary and Seminary | photo by threecharlie |
Saint Lawrence of Brindisi’s Story
At first glance, perhaps the most remarkable quality of Lawrence
of Brindisi is his outstanding gift of languages. In addition to a thorough
knowledge of his native Italian, he had complete reading and speaking ability
in Latin, Hebrew, Greek, German, Bohemian, Spanish, and French.
Lawrence was born on July 22, 1559, and died exactly 60 years
later on his birthday in 1619. His parents William and Elizabeth Russo gave him
the name of Julius Caesar, Caesare in Italian. After the early
death of his parents, he was educated by his uncle at the College of St. Mark
in Venice.
When he was just 16, he entered the Capuchin Franciscan Order in
Venice and received the name of Lawrence. He completed his studies of
philosophy and theology at the University of Padua and was ordained a priest at
23.
With his facility for languages Lawrence was able to study the
Bible in its original texts. At the request of Pope Clement VIII, he spent much
time preaching to the Jews in Italy. So excellent was his knowledge of Hebrew,
the rabbis felt sure he was a Jew who had become a Christian.
Lawrence’s sensitivity to the needs of people—a character trait
perhaps unexpected in such a talented scholar—began to surface. He was elected
major superior of the Capuchin Franciscan province of Tuscany at the age of 31.
He had the combination of brilliance, human compassion, and administrative
skill needed to carry out his duties. In rapid succession he was promoted by
his fellow Capuchins and was elected minister general of the Capuchins in 1602.
In this position he was responsible for great growth and geographical expansion
of the Order.
Lawrence was appointed papal emissary and peacemaker, a job
which took him to a number of foreign countries. An effort to achieve peace in
his native kingdom of Naples took him on a journey to Lisbon to visit the king
of Spain. Serious illness in Lisbon took his life in 1619.
In 1956, the Capuchins completed a 15-volume edition of
Lawrence’s writings. Eleven of these 15 contain his sermons, each of which
relies chiefly on scriptural quotations to illustrate his teaching.
Reflection
His constant devotion to Scripture, coupled with great
sensitivity to the needs of people, present a lifestyle which appeals to
Christians today. Lawrence had a balance in his life that blended
self-discipline with a keen appreciation for the needs of those whom he was
called to serve.
LECTIO DIVINA: MATTHEW 12:14-21
Lectio Divina:
Saturday, July 21, 2018
Ordinary
Time
1) OPENING PRAYER
God
our Father,
Your
light of truth
guides
us to the way of Christ.
May
all who follow Him
reject
what is contrary to the Gospel.
We
ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,
who
lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit,
one
God, for ever and ever. Amen.
2) GOSPEL READING - MATTHEW
12:14-21
The
Pharisees went out and took counsel against Jesus to put him to death. When Jesus
realized this, he withdrew from that place. Many people followed him, and he
cured them all, but he warned them not to make him known. This was to fulfill
what had been spoken through Isaiah the prophet: Behold, my servant whom I have
chosen, my beloved in whom I delight; I shall place my Spirit upon him, and he
will proclaim justice to the Gentiles. He will not contend or cry out, nor will
anyone hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, a
smoldering wick he will not quench, until he brings justice to victory. And in
his name the Gentiles will hope.
3) REFLECTION
•
The Gospel today has two parts: (a) describes the various reactions of the
Pharisees and of the people who listen to the preaching of Jesus; and (b)
describes what Matthew sees in these reactions: the fulfillment of the prophecy
of the Servant of Yahweh, announced by Isaiah.
•
Matthew 12:14: The reaction of the Pharisees: they decide to kill Jesus. This
verse is the conclusion of the previous episode, in which Jesus challenges the
malice of the Pharisees, by curing the man who had a withered hand (Mt
12:9-14). The reaction of the Pharisees was to hold a Council meeting against
Jesus. Thus, they come to the breaking of the relationship between the
religious authority and Jesus. In Mark, this episode is much more explicit and
provocative (Mk 3:1-6). He says that the decision to kill Jesus was not only
that of the Pharisees, but also of the Herodians (Mk 3:6). Altar and throne
joined together against Jesus.
•
Matthew 12:15-16: The reaction of the people: to follow Jesus. When Jesus
learned the decision of the Pharisees, He went away from the place where He
was. People follow Him. Even knowing that the religious authority has decided
to kill Jesus, the people do not go away from Jesus, but rather they follow
Him. Many followed Him and He cured them all, but warned them not to make Him
known. People know how to discern. Jesus asks them not to spread the
news, not to say what He is doing. A great contrast! On the one side, the
conflict of life and death, between Jesus and the religious authority, and on
the other the movement of the people who were desirous of encountering Jesus!
They were, above all, the marginalized and the excluded who presented
themselves to Jesus with their illness and their infirmities. They, who were
not accepted in society or in the religious field, were accepted by Jesus.
•
Matthew 12:17: The concern of Matthew: Jesus is our Messiah. This reaction,
different from that of the Pharisees and of the people, moved Matthew to see
here the realization of the prophecy of the Suffering Servant. On the one hand,
the Servant was persecuted by the authority which insulted Him and spat on His
face, but He does not turn back. He presents His face hard as a rock, knowing
that He will not be disappointed (Is 50:5-7). On the other hand, the Servant is
sought and expected by the people. The crowd coming from far is waiting for His
teaching (Is 42:4). This is exactly what is happening to Jesus.
•
Matthew 12:18-21: Jesus fulfills the prophecy of the Servant. Matthew presents
the entire first Canticle of the Servant. Read the text slowly, thinking of
Jesus and the poor who today are excluded:
“Look!
My Servant whom I have chosen;
My
beloved in whom My soul delights,
I
will send My Spirit upon Him, and He will proclaim justice to the nations;
He
will not brawl or cry out; His voice is not heard in the streets,
He
will not break a bruised reed, or snuff the faltering wick.
Until
he has made justice victorious; in him the nations will put their hope.”
4) PERSONAL QUESTIONS
•
Do you know of any case in which the religious authority, in the name of
religion, decided to persecute and kill people who, like Jesus, did good to
people?
•
In our community are we servants of God for the people? What do we lack?
5) CONCLUDING PRAYER
How
precious, God, is Your faithful love.
So
the children of Adam take refuge in the shadow of Your wings.
They
feast on the bounty of Your house,
You
let them drink from Your delicious streams. (Ps 36:7-8)
Không có nhận xét nào:
Đăng nhận xét