St. Matthias Transfiguration

Reflections on Our Faith

Take Five for Faith

Invest just five minutes a day, and your faith will deepen and grow - a day at a time. Look up the daily passages from the New American Bible online at www.usccb.org/nab/bible. Download Take Five for Faith by clicking on the date below: Week starting Sunday, March 21, 2010 Sunday reflections available in Spanish! Domingo, 21 De MARZO De 2010 Invierte sólo cinco minutos al día, y tu fe se intensificará y crecerá-un día a la vez.

SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2010
FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT

Here’s a little secret

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow once observed: “If we could read the secret history of our enemies we should find in each man’s life sorrow and suffering enough to disarm all hostility.” While we cannot always know or understand the circumstances of our enemies’ lives, we are nevertheless called to forgive them, as Jesus forgave the woman caught in adultery—and every other sinner he encountered. To know the secret lives of others is really God’s purview. Yet, because God forgives everyone (ourselves included!), who are we to hold a grudge?

TODAY'S READINGS: Isaiah 43:16-21; Philippians 3:8-14; John 8:1-11

"Neither do I condemn you. Go your way, and from now on do not sin again."

DOMINGO, 21 DE MARZO DE 2010
QUINTO DOMINGO DE CUARESMA

Aquí hay un pequeño secreto

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow alguna vez observó: “Si pudiéramos leer la historia secreta de nuestros enemigos deberíamos encontrar en la vida de cada hombre pena y sufrimiento suficiente para desarmar toda la hostilidad.” Mientras no podemos siempre saber o entender las circunstancias de las vidas de nuestros enemigos, no obstante somos llamados a perdonarlos, como Jesús perdonó a la mujer atrapada en adulterio—y cualquier otro pecador que encontrara. Conocer las vidas secretas de los demás es realmente el ámbito de Dios. Sin embargo, porque Dios perdona a todos (¡incluyendo a nosotros mismos!), ¿quiénes somos para guardar rencor?

LECTURAS DE HOY: Isaías 43:16-21; Filipenses 3:8-14; Juan 8:1-11

"Tampoco los condeno. Váyanse, y de ahora en adelante no pequen otra vez."

MONDAY, MARCH 22
LENTEN WEEKDAY

Take a shine to it

Few words in the English language have as many positive connotations as light. Pull out your dictionary and see for yourself: “radiance or illumination,” “daybreak or dawn,” “a person who is an outstanding leader—a leading light,” “a gleam or sparkle, as in the eyes,” “to brighten with animation or joy,” “spiritual illumination or awareness.” We begin to see the wisdom of describing Jesus as the light of the world, the one who brings the light of life. That’s good news to brighten any day. Let it brighten yours!

TODAY'S READINGS: Daniel 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62 or 13:41c-62; John 8:12-20

"Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness."

TUESDAY, MARCH 23
FEAST OF TORIBIO DE MOGROVEJO, BISHOP

Downwardly mobile

Born in 1538 in Spain, Saint Toribio was a professor and well-known judge. His leadership qualities, however, attracted attention and led to an unexpected development: appointment as archbishop of the far-flung territory of colonial Peru. Though he asked to be excused from the task, he nonetheless set off for the New World, where he roamed the vast diocese, teaching, bringing the sacraments, building churches and hospitals, and learning the many languages of the native people he served—and whom he tried to protect from abuses at the hands of the conquistadores. If you ever feel called to forsake prestige for service, accept the challenge with gratitude and enthusiasm.

TODAY'S READINGS: Numbers 21:4-9; John 8:21-30

"The people spoke against God and against Moses, 'Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness?' "

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 24
LENTEN WEEKDAY

Let Lent work

“You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” These words provoked intense controversy when Jesus said them because his hearers—who already believed in him—didn’t consider themselves unfree! People who are addicted often have no awareness of their disease. They think everyone else has the same compulsions and desires as they do. Often it takes a serious shock, even an intervention, to help the person see the truth and start heading toward freedom. If we are allowing Lent to do its work of shedding light, of holding our lives against the plumb-line of the gospel, we may at first feel sad or shocked or afraid of what we find, but on the other side is freedom.

TODAY'S READINGS: Daniel 3:14-20, 91-92, 95; John 8:31-42

"If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples."

THURSDAY, MARCH 25
SOLEMNITY OF THE ANNUNCIATION OF THE LORD

God’s favor rests on you

How do you get God’s favor? Start by becoming “full of grace.” It’s not as unlikely as it sounds. Grace means divine help. If we rely on God and not on people and things—all of which are passing—we’re as good as there. When our reliance is truly on God there won’t be room for those nagging second thoughts. Imagine a life free of anxiety, fear, doubt, and moral paralysis! That was the life Mary of Nazareth knew, trusting every day that the divine promises to her would be fulfilled. Go on: Take a daily step farther into grace.

TODAY'S READINGS: Isaiah 7:10-14; 8:10; Hebrews 10:4-10; Luke 1:26-38

"The angel said to her, 'Don’t be afraid, Mary; God has been gracious to you.'"

FRIDAY, MARCH 26
LENTEN WEEKDAY

Don’t take sides

Jeremiah and the prophets often spoke out against the injustices of their day, be they injustices against God or the people. Sometimes we can identify with those who are oppressed because we’ve had experiences of being oppressed. And, as uncomfortable as it may be to consider, sometimes we can identify with the oppressors. It can be we who denounce, who enact revenge, who pick up stones against others. This Lent, be conscious that Jesus invites us to know the full truth about ourselves and take concrete steps—small ones and big ones—to be reconciled with ourselves, with others, and with God.

TODAY'S READINGS: Jeremiah 20:10-13; John 10:31-42

"O Lord of hosts . . . you see the heart and the mind."

SATURDAY, MARCH 27
LENTEN WEEKDAY

Let’s reframe the question

People often ask why the Jewish leaders didn’t believe in Jesus. A gospel story gives us one explanation: to do so would have brought destruction down on them from the Romans. The empire tolerated the Jewish religion, but they weren’t going to allow a new religion. So for the leaders it was either eliminate Jesus or lose the nation. Hmm . . . not exactly a win-win calculation. What impossible situations have presented themselves to you? Lent is a good time to reframe the questions you face, and with the help of prayer and scripture find just and life-giving solutions.

TODAY'S READINGS: Ezekiel 37:21-28; John 11:45-56

"If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him, and the Romans will come and destroy both our holy place and our nation."

Contributors: Father Paul Boudreau, Daniel Grippo, Father Larry Janowski, O.F.M., Ann O’Connor, Joel Schorn, Patrice J. Tuohy, and Sister Julie Vieira, I.H.M.

©2010 by TrueQuest Communications, L.L.C. PHONE: 800-942-2811; E-MAIL: mail@takefiveforfaith.com; WEBSITE: www.takefiveforfaith.com. Licensed for noncommercial use. All rights reserved. Scripture quotes come from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible.

Reflections on Our Faith

Take Five for Faith

Invest just five minutes a day, and your faith will deepen and grow - a day at a time. Look up the daily passages from the New American Bible online at www.usccb.org/nab/bible. Download Take Five for Faith by clicking on the date below: Week starting Sunday, March 14, 2010 Sunday reflections available in Spanish! Domingo, 14 De MARZO De 2010 Invierte sólo cinco minutos al día, y tu fe se intensificará y crecerá-un día a la vez.

SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2010
FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT

The Prodigal Father’s parable

Accused of hanging out with sinners, Jesus tells one of his best stories. “A man had two sons,” the elder (oh-so-good) and the younger (not-so-much). It’s a story about extravagance and wastefulness—prodigality—but not the son’s. The “prodigal father’s” affection and forgiveness go overboard, a spendthrift with his love. The parable closes with a party dad throws for his son who “once was lost and now is found” but the older son refuses to join the celebration, so that the father has to beg him to go beyond his joyless (self-)righteousness. The father actually runs out to meet a son twice: once to kiss the errant, broken younger one and then to bring into the warmth that stubborn elder one. Jesus still “consorts with sinners,” no manner which kind we are.

TODAY'S READINGS: Jeremiah 5:9a, 10-12; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

"This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them."

DOMINGO, 14 DE MARZO DE 2010
CUARTO DOMINGO DE CUARESMA

La parábola del Padre Prodigo

Acusado de pasar el tiempo con pecadores, Jesús cuenta una de sus mejores historias. “Un hombre tuvo dos hijos,” el mayor (oh-tan-bueno) y el menor (no-tanto). Es una historia de extravagancia y despilfarro—prodigalidad—pero no es del hijo. El afecto y el perdón del “padre pródigo” son exagerados, un despilfarro de su amor. La parábola cierra con una fiesta que el padre da para su hijo quien “alguna vez estuvo perdido y ahora es encontrado” pero el hijo mayor rehúsa unirse a la celebración, para que el padre tenga que rogarle a que vaya más allá de su (propia) rectitud sombría. En realidad el padre sale corriendo a ver a un hijo dos veces: una vez para besar al más joven errante, destrozado y después para traer al calor a aquel más grande, terco. Jesús todavía “se reúne con pecadores,” sin importar de qué tipo seamos.

LECTURAS DE HOY: Jeremías 5:9a, 10-12; 2 Corintios 5:17-21; Lucas 15:1-3, 11-32

"Este hombre recibe a pecadores y come con ellos."

MONDAY, MARCH 15
LENTEN WEEKDAY

Yes we can, with God’s help

Our faith might be more conditional than we’d like to admit. We may expect it to magically solve all our problems, perhaps by way of miraculous signs and wonders such as the Galileans expected of Jesus. It’s understandable, but that is not how faith always works. It’s not only about a miracle fix but rather about facing and resolving life’s challenges with confidence that we do not face them alone—God is at our side. So rather than hope for a miracle today, work on resolving a problem yourself, with confidence and serenity that God is with you.

TODAY'S READINGS: Isaiah 65:17-21; John 4:43-54

"The Galileans welcomed him, since they had seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the festival."

TUESDAY, MARCH 16
LENTEN WEEKDAY

Healing is within reach

What do you do when what you need is beyond your grasp? That was the problem for the man who’d been waiting by the healing pool of Bethesda for 38 long years. The waters were only beneficial if you reached them when the angel had stirred them. At the pace this poor fellow moved, someone always beat him to it. The arrival of Jesus changed the rules of the game. No more did healing depend on special moments, healing mediums, or preferential considerations. The word of Jesus sufficed to make the sick man whole. His word remains the one that saves.

TODAY'S READINGS: Ezekiel 47:1-9, 12; John 5:1-16

"Immediately the man got well; he picked up his mat and started walking."

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17
FEAST OF PATRICK, BISHOP

Get a strong start

“Saint Patrick’s Breastplate,” an Irish morning prayer from the eighth century, is a testament to Patrick’s almost palpable sense of closeness to God: “Christ shield me this day . . ./ Christ with me,/ Christ before me,/ Christ behind me,/ Christ in me,/ Christ beneath me,/ Christ above me . . .” and on the litany goes. Just as Jesus describes how he cannot do anything except through the Father, so Patrick prays that anything he does goes through the Son. Jesus is Patrick’s protector, his friend, and above all, Patrick believes that it is Jesus whom he will encounter through “every eye that sees” him each day. What breastplate can you fashion today that will help strengthen your faith? Perhaps you can begin with a morning prayer.

TODAY'S READINGS: Isaiah 49:8-15; John 5:17-30

"Whatever the Father does, the Son does likewise."

THURSDAY, MARCH 18
FEAST OF CYRIL OF JERUSALEM, BISHOP, DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH

Hat trick

There aren’t many saints venerated by Roman Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, and Anglicans alike, but Cyril of Jerusalem (313-386) is one. If that weren’t enough of a distinction, Cyril is also honored as a doctor of the church. Why so special? He was a key voice in resolving a number of doctrinal disputes in the early church and helped advance the belief that the consecrated bread and wine are not mere symbols but the actual body and blood of Christ. The next time you receive Communion, give a nod of thanks to Cyril for helping illuminate the experience. You’ll be in good company doing so.

TODAY'S READINGS: Exodus 32:7-14; John 5:31-47

"There is another who testifies on my behalf."

FRIDAY, MARCH 19
SOLEMNITY OF JOSEPH, HUSBAND OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

Just do it

Although Saint Joseph does not say a word in the gospels, we know that he was both a deeply spiritual and an immensely practical person. How else could he have managed to take Mary on that difficult and dangerous journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, find shelter, help her give birth to their son, change plans, transport his family safely to Egypt in the middle of the night, and support them in exile for years until it was finally safe to return to Nazareth? Joseph’s actions speak volumes. Reflect on these words of Leonardo da Vinci: “Knowing is not enough, we must apply. Being willing is not enough, we must do.”

TODAY'S READINGS: 2 Samuel 7:4-5a, 12-14a, 16; Romans 4:13, 16-18, 22; Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24a or Luke 2:41-51a

"I will be a father to him, and he shall be a son to me."

SATURDAY, MARCH 20
LENTEN WEEKDAY

Not what you had planned

The path from plan to reality can be rough and sometimes goes off in unexpected directions. That’s especially true when people insist something has to be so because that’s the way they want it or can’t imagine anything different. Jesus found himself in this situation when people were arguing about whether he fit the description of who they thought the Messiah or a prophet was supposed to be. Unfortunately this discussion blinded them to actually believing in him. Try to get past always seeing how things are supposed to be (and frequently aren’t) to how they really are.

TODAY'S READINGS: Jeremiah 11:18-20; John 7:40-53

"Search and you will see that no prophet is to arise from Galilee."

Contributors: Father Paul Boudreau, Daniel Grippo, Father Larry Janowski, O.F.M., Ann O’Connor, Joel Schorn, Patrice J. Tuohy, and Sister Julie Vieira, I.H.M.

©2010 by TrueQuest Communications, L.L.C. PHONE: 800-942-2811; E-MAIL: mail@takefiveforfaith.com; WEBSITE: www.takefiveforfaith.com. Licensed for noncommercial use. All rights reserved. Scripture quotes come from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible.

Reflections on Our Faith

VESPERS IN THE 6TH CENTURY

In the sixth century the Office of Vespers in the Latin Church was almost the same as it has been throughout the Middle Ages and up to the present day. In a document of unquestionable authority of that period the Office is described as follows: The evening hour, is composed of four psalms, a capitulum, a response, a hym, a versicle, a canticle from the Gospel,litany Pater with the ordinary finale, oratio, or prayer, and dismissal . Vesper time varied according to the season between the tenth hour (4 p. m.) and the twelfth (6 p. m.). As a matter of fact it was no longer the evening hour, but the sunset hour, so that it was celebrated before the day had departed and consequently before there was any necessity for artificial light (Regula S. Benedicti, xli). This is a point to be noted, as it was an innovation. Before this epoch this evening synaxis was celebrated with all the torches alight. The reason of this is that St. Benedict introduced in the cursus, another hour—that of Compline which was prescribed to be celebrated in the evening, and which might be considered as a kind of doubling of the Office of Lucernarium.

ORIGIN OF VESPERS: PERIOD BEFORE THE 6TH CENTURYThe Rule of St. Benedict was written about 530-43 and represents the Office of Vespers drawn up in the manner shown above. Much earlier than this we find an evening Office corresponding to both that of Vespers and that of Compline. Its name varies. In St. Benedict we find the name vespera which has prevailed, whence the French word vêpres and the English vespers. John Cassian calls it Vespertina synaxis, or Vespertina solemnitas (P. L., XLIX, 88- 9). The name, however, by which it was most widely known during that period was Lucernalis or Lucernaria hora (l. c., 126). This name is characteristic. It was so called because at this hour a number of candles were lighted, not only to give light, but also for symbolical purposes. The "Peregrinatio", which gives the liturgical order as practised at Jerusalem and the date of which is probably the 4th century, calls it Lichnicon. This is the Latin transcription of the Greek word lychnikon, which corresponds to the word Lucernarium (cf. AMBROSIAN LITURGY AND RITE). The author tells us that this Office took place at the tenth hour (four o'clock in the evening); it is really the Office des lumières, i.e. of the lights; it was celebrated in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre; all the lamps and torches of the church were lighted, making, as the author says, "an infinite light". The Lucernal psalms were sung, after which followed the recitation of the supplication and commemorations or litanies, then the prayers, and finally the blessing and dismissal. In the "Antiphonary of Bangor", an Irish document of the 6th century, Vespers are called hora duodecima, which corresponds to six o'clock in the evening, or hora incensi, or again ad cereum benedicendum. All these names are interesting to note. The hora incensi recalls the custom of burning incense at this hour, while at the same time the candles were lighted. The term ad cereum benedicendum presents a still greater interest because it reminds us that the ceremony of the lights at Vespers was symbolic and very solemn. Vespers, then, was the most solemn Office of the day and was composed of the psalms called Lucernales (Psalm 140 is called psalmus).

Vespers are offered every evening at 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday during Lent. Please join us for this prayerful reflection.

Take Five for Faith

Invest just five minutes a day, and your faith will deepen and grow - a day at a time. Look up the daily passages from the New American Bible online at www.usccb.org/nab/bible. Download Take Five for Faith by clicking on the date below: Week starting Sunday, February 28, 2010 Sunday reflections available in Spanish! Domingo, 28 De FEBRERO De 2010 Invierte sólo cinco minutos al día, y tu fe se intensificará y crecerá-un día a la vez.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2010
SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT

See beyond the surface

Peter gets the Transfiguration wrong, as he does so many things at first. Upon seeing a glimpse of Jesus’ glory, his impulse is to mark the spot, to memorialize it with a shrine. We can understand that, though today we take digital photos and videos, vainly trying to capture a place, a person, or a moment that can never be held—except in the heart. In Lent we remember that our faith is not only a matter of medals, holy cards, a rosary hung from the car’s rearview mirror or worn as a necklace. These do not sum up our faith any more than children are their photographs. Tokens remind us of someone or something important; at their best, they move us to an act of love. Those in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults process are not supported only by browsing through photos in our parish directory but by seeing faith in action: on the street, at work, in the homes of believers.

TODAY'S READINGS: Genesis 15:5-12, 17-18; Philippians 3:17-4:1 or 3:20-4:1; Luke 9:28b-36

"Brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us."

DOMINGO, 28 DE FEBRERO DE 2010
SEGUNDO DOMINGO DE CUARESMA

Ve más allá de la superficie

Pedro entiende mal la Transfiguración, como muchas otras cosas al principio. Una vez visto brevemente la gloria de Jesús, su impulso es marcar el lugar, recordarlo con un santuario. Podemos entender que, aunque hoy tomamos fotos y videos digitales, vanamente intentando capturar un lugar, una persona, o un momento que puede nunca ser tomado—excepto en el corazón. En la Cuaresma recordamos que nuestra fe no solo es una cuestión de medallas, estampas sagradas, un rosario colgado del espejo retrovisor de un carro o usado como un collar. Estos no resumen nuestra fe más que los niños son sus fotos. Las fichas nos recuerdan a alguien o algo importante; en el mejor de los casos, nos llevan a un acto de amor. Aquellos en el proceso Rito de la Iniciación Cristiana de Adultos no están apoyados solo por echar un vistazo a las fotos en nuestro directorio de parroquia sino por ver la fe en acción: en las calles, en el trabajo, en las casas de los creyentes.

LECTURAS DE HOY: Génesis 15:5-12, 17-18; Filipenses 3:17-4:1 o 3:20-4:1; Lucas 9:28b-36

"Hermanos y hermanas, únanse en imitarme, y observen a aquellos que viven de acuerdo al ejemplo que tú tienes en nosotros."

MONDAY, MARCH 1
LENTEN WEEKDAY

Tell it like it is

The biggest saints were often some of the biggest sinners. The difference between them and us may be that they sought liberation through confessing their wrongdoing. Holding onto sin means letting it hold onto us, or as Saint Alphonsus Liguori said, “After we have offended God, the devil labors to keep the mouth closed.” The sixth-century monk John Climacus was even more picturesque about it: “Eggs warmed in dung hatch out. Unconfessed evil thoughts hatch evil actions.” Don’t let the spirit of jealousy, resentment, or dishonesty hatch out! Run, don’t walk, to the sacrament that liberates!

TODAY'S READINGS: Daniel 9:4b-10; Luke 6:36-38

"Ah, Lord, great and awesome God . . . we have sinned and done wrong."

TUESDAY, MARCH 2
LENTEN WEEKDAY

Understanding God

Although the Pledge of Allegiance has been around since 1892, the words “under God” were not officially added by Congress until 1954. While some have criticized the move as breaching the church-state divide, the notion that we are all under a Supreme Being in fact encourages the egalitarian spirit the United States is known for. The idea that no one is above God reinforces the American belief that no one is above the law either. The sense that we are a people living under God can help us see each other as brothers and sisters and motivate us to work for greater equality and justice for all.

TODAY'S READINGS: Isaiah 1:10, 16-20; Matthew 23:1-12

"You have one teacher, and you are all students."

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 3
FEAST OF KATHARINE DREXEL, VIRGIN

The best of both worlds

Katherine Drexel (1858-1955) went beyond herself in many ways. Beyond her economic class—she gave away millions of dollars of her inheritance to charities. Beyond her race—she founded a religious order of women to help African Americans and Native Americans. When she was 77, however, her life of service changed to one of quiet and prayer after she suffered a heart attack. Katherine’s story shows the importance of both prayer and service, contemplation and action. Find that balance in your own life.

TODAY'S READINGS: Jeremiah 18:18-20; Matthew 20:17-28

"Whoever wishes to be great among you must be your servant."

THURSDAY, MARCH 4
LENTEN WEEKDAY

Be a good steward of yourself

In the season of Lent, tradition calls on Christians to fast. Fasting has a long history, going all the way back to biblical times. Jesus fasted in the wilderness before embarking on his ministry. As a spiritual discipline fasting points to a period of preparation—in Lent, preparation to celebrate the Easter mysteries. It reminds you to clear away distractions and look more closely at yourself and where things come from and where they go. Think of all the “resources” in your life: time, money, food, possessions, even love. Are you using them well? Now’s the time to find out.

TODAY'S READINGS: Jeremiah 17:5-10; Luke 16:19-31

"I the Lord test the mind and search the heart, to give to all . . . according to the fruit of their doings."

FRIDAY, MARCH 5
LENTEN WEEKDAY

No regrets?

You may be tempted to believe you have “failed” Lent; you might have relaxed your resolutions or Lenten practices. But you should not think that your Lent is over the instant you stumble. The third- and fourth-century church father Saint John Chrysostom reminds us that our task is rather simple: “Have you sinned? Mourn and annul the sin. How toilsome is this? . . . I am not telling you to cleave the oceans, or to navigate slowly into port from the high seas, or to march, or to depart on an endless journey . . . Then what? Mourn the sin.” Always be willing to reevaluate your goals for this Lent, keeping in mind that repentance is all that is asked of you.

TODAY'S READINGS: Genesis 37:3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a; Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46

"Jesus said to them, ‘Have you never read in the scriptures: The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone?’ "

SATURDAY, MARCH 6
LENTEN WEEKDAY

Restrain a prodigious appetite

The gospel story of the “prodigal son” provides a vivid illustration of the limits of acquisitiveness and self-indulgence. The son first demands his inheritance from his father while his father is still alive (ouch!). If that weren’t enough, he then quickly runs through it in the biblical equivalent of a Las Vegas weekend splurge. Only when he hungers to fill his empty stomach does he come to his senses. In a similar way, feeling a bit of hunger—the effect of the traditional Lenten discipline of fasting—might help us reflect on our own shortcomings and make adjustments and amends as necessary. Consider skipping a meal today for the sake of your spirit.

TODAY'S READINGS: Micah 7:14-15, 18-20; Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

"He would gladly have filled himself with the pods that the pigs were eating."

Contributors: Father Paul Boudreau, Daniel Grippo, Father Larry Janowski, O.F.M., Ann O’Connor, Joel Schorn, Patrice J. Tuohy, and Sister Julie Vieira, I.H.M.

©2010 by TrueQuest Communications, L.L.C. PHONE: 800-942-2811; E-MAIL: mail@takefiveforfaith.com; WEBSITE: www.takefiveforfaith.com. Licensed for noncommercial use. All rights reserved. Scripture quotes come from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible.

Reflections on Our Faith

Take Five for Faith

Invest just five minutes a day, and your faith will deepen and grow - a day at a time. Look up the daily passages from the New American Bible online at www.usccb.org/nab/bible. Download Take Five for Faith by clicking on the date below: Week starting Sunday, February 21, 2010 Sunday reflections available in Spanish! Domingo, 21 De FEBRERO De 2010 Invierte sólo cinco minutos al día, y tu fe se intensificará y crecerá-un día a la vez.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2010
FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT

These 40 days

Fasting for a day can seem an eternity. Imagine doing so for 40! To say Jesus was “famished” at the end of that time is an understatement. Some of us use that phrase to describe how we feel when dinner is late. The lessons Jesus learned in the wilderness stayed with him throughout his ministry. He knew keenly and personally how hunger makes us weak and susceptible to temptation. Is that why he chose the eucharistic feast to share his presence with us? Fast on Fridays. Feast every day.

TODAY'S READINGS: Deuteronomy 26:4-10; Romans 10:8-13; Luke 4:1-13

"He ate nothing at all during those days, and when they were over, he was famished."

DOMINGO, 21 DE FEBRERO DE 2010
PRIMER DOMINGO DE CUARESMA

Estos 40 días

Ayunar por un día puede parecer una eternidad. ¡Imagínate hacerlo por 40 días! Decir que Jesús era “famélico” al final de ese tiempo es quedarse corto. Algunos de nosotros usamos esa frase para describir cómo nos sentimos cuando la cena tarda mucho. Las lecciones que Jesús aprendió en el desierto se quedaron con él por todo su ministerio. Él supo muy interesada y personalmente cómo el hambre nos hace débiles y susceptibles a la tentación. ¿Es por eso que escogió el banquete eucarístico para compartir su presencia con nosotros? Ayuna los viernes. Festeja cada día.

LECTURAS DE HOY: Deuteronomio 26:4-10; Romanos 10:8-13; Lucas 4:1-13

"Él no comió nada durante esos días, y cuando hubieron terminado, estaba famélico."

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15
FEAST OF THE CHAIR OF PETER, APOSTLE

Thou art Peter

The church celebrates a couple of feast days for buildings, but today is the only one dedicated to a piece of furniture! Of course the “chair” of Peter is a symbol of the pope’s authority, much like a “chairperson” has charge of a meeting. Peter and his successors, the popes, ensure the unity of the church. Because the pope is the “rock” of Matthew’s gospel, it is he who affirms what is believed. He holds the “keys to the kingdom” in that he teaches the world the way of life that leads to fulfillment.

TODAY'S READINGS: 1 Peter 5:1-4; Matthew 16:13-19

"You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church."

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23
FEAST OF POLYCARP, BISHOP, MARTYR

Living memory

We can be sure that the practice of venerating the relics of saints began very early in the church. The first evidence for it comes from a letter dated around 150 A.D. concerning the martyrdom of Polycarp. The letter relates that following Polycarp’s execution the Romans refused the Christians his body, deciding rather to burn it. The Christians then gathered together his bones, “being more precious than the most exquisite jewels, and more purified than gold.” They put these bones in a place of distinction where they would gather together and revere them, especially on the anniversary of Polycarp’s martyrdom. Remember the sacrifices of Christian martyrs and give yourself wholeheartedly to a life of faith.

TODAY'S READINGS: Isaiah 55:10-11; Matthew 6:7-15

"My word . . . shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and succeed in the thing for which I sent it."

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24
LENTEN WEEKDAY

The sign of Jonah

Jesus comparing himself to Jonah may sound a little mysterious to modern ears, but his original audience would have known what he was talking about pretty quickly. You remember Jonah, don’t you? Rescued by God from the belly of a great fish after three days and nights (sound familiar?). Sent by God to read the riot act to the wicked city of Nineveh. Walked around the place crying, “Forty days more, and Nineveh will be overthrown!”—and lo and behold everyone from the king on down repented as fast as they could, and God decided to spare them. Jonah was so spectacularly successful that he got mad—wasn’t this supposed to be harder? Like Jonah, Jesus calls his hearers to change their lives and return to God. Lent could not have a better goal.

TODAY'S READINGS: Jonah 3:1-10; Luke 11:29-32

"The people of Nineveh believed God."

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25
LENTEN WEEKDAY

As good as gold

The Golden Rule of “do unto others,” the ethic of reciprocity Jesus summarizes in the gospel, shows up in one form or another in many cultures and religious traditions. Perhaps that happens because it seems to be such a logical and self-evident truth—who among us does not wish to be treated with respect, fairness, dignity, and kindness? Why, then, is it so hard at times to do the same for others? Evidence, perhaps, that each of us is a work in progress. Pray for a generous heart today.

TODAY'S READINGS: Esther C:12, 14-16, 23-25; Matthew 7:7-12

"In everything do to others as you would have them do to you."

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26
LENTEN WEEKDAY

Beyond the law

Jesus was a master at turning ideas upside-down and inviting folks to see things from a new perspective. His teaching on reconciliation is a good example. People knew that they should follow the law “you shall not kill.” But Jesus took it further. He urged people to do more than follow laws in order to be free. He urged them to heal divisions, to reconcile with one another so as not to be held captive by anger or vengeance. That can be a very challenging thing to do. It requires us to face the hurt or bad feelings that we have and move forward in our relationships, finding healing and freedom. Consider your own relationships and ask God for the grace to right a broken one.

TODAY'S READINGS: Ezekiel 18:21-28; Matthew 5:20-26

"If . . . your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled."

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27
LENTEN WEEKDAY

Honk if you love your enemies

Surely Jesus’ most radical command is to love our enemies. But exactly how are we supposed to do that? One way to begin is by learning from the example of others. A man was waiting in his car at the window of a drive-up Starbucks. His order was taking some time and eventually the person behind him began impatiently blowing his horn. Instead of becoming angry himself, the first man paid for the second one’s drink and drove away. With this profoundly simple but powerful act he set off a chain reaction that lasted the entire day. Today may we pray to offer a loving response to anyone who tries to cause us grief.

TODAY'S READINGS: Deuteronomy 26:16-19; Matthew 5:43-48

"For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have?"

Contributors: Father Paul Boudreau, Daniel Grippo, Father Larry Janowski, O.F.M., Ann O’Connor, Joel Schorn, Patrice J. Tuohy, and Sister Julie Vieira, I.H.M.

©2010 by TrueQuest Communications, L.L.C. PHONE: 800-942-2811; E-MAIL: mail@takefiveforfaith.com; WEBSITE: www.takefiveforfaith.com. Licensed for noncommercial use. All rights reserved. Scripture quotes come from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible.

Reflections on Our Faith

Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday, originally called dies cinerum (day of ashes) is mentioned in the earliest copies of the Gregorian Sacramentary, and probably dates from at least the 8th Century. One of the earliest descriptions of Ash Wednesday is found in the writings of the Anglo-Saxon abbot Aelfric (955-1020). In his Lives of the Saints, he writes, "We read in the books both in the Old Law and in the New that the men who repented of their sins bestrewed themselves with ashes and clothed their bodies with sackcloth. Now let us do this little at the beginning of our Lent that we strew ashes upon our heads to signify that we ought to repent of our sins during the Lenten fast." Aelfric then proceeds to tell the tale of a man who refused to go to church for the ashes and was accidentally killed several days later in a boar hunt! This quotation confirms what we know from other sources, that throughout the Middle Ages ashes were sprinkled on the head, rather than anointed on the forehead as in our day.

As Aelfric suggests, the pouring of ashes on one's body (and dressing in sackcloth, a very rough material) as an outer manifestation of inner repentance or mourning is an ancient practice. It is mentioned several times in the Old Testament. What is probably the earliest occurrence is found at the very end of the book of Job. Job, having been rebuked by God, confesses, "Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes" (Job 42:6). Other examples are found in 2 Samuel 13:19, Esther 4:1,3, Isaiah 61:3, Jeremiah 6:26, Ezekiel 27:30, and Daniel 9:3. In the New Testament, Jesus alludes to the practice in Matthew 11:21: "Woe to you, Korazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes."

In the typical Ash Wednesday observance, Christians are invited to the altar to receive the imposition of ashes, prior to receiving the holy Supper. Ashes are pressed in the shape of the cross on the forehead of each, while speaking the words, "For dust you are and to dust you shall return" (Genesis 3:19). This is of course what God spoke to Adam and Eve after they had eaten of the forbidden fruit and fallen into sin. These words indicated to our first parents the bitterest fruit, the human condition, namely death. In the context of the Ash Wednesday imposition of ashes, they remind each penitent of their sinfulness and mortality, and, thus, their need to repent and get right with God. The cross reminds each penitent of the good news that through Jesus Christ crucified there is forgiveness for all sins, and the promise of new life.

Many Christians choose to leave the ashes on their forehead for the remainder of the day. as a witness that all people are mortal and sinners in need of forgiveness and healing through Christ, His cross and resurrection.

Take Five for Faith

Invest just five minutes a day, and your faith will deepen and grow - a day at a time. Look up the daily passages from the New American Bible online at www.usccb.org/nab/bible. Download Take Five for Faith by clicking on the date below: Week starting Sunday, February 14, 2010 Sunday reflections available in Spanish! Domingo, 14 De FEBRERO De 2010 Invierte sólo cinco minutos al día, y tu fe se intensificará y crecerá-un día a la vez.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2010
SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Exchanging woes for blessings

Isn’t it wonderful to be wealthy, to be well-fed, and to enjoy the esteem of the community? And if you don’t fit any of those categories, wouldn’t it be great if you did? Then why do you suppose Jesus lamented the fate of rich people? Probably because we tend to think that wealth, abundance, and acceptance are for us. Actually those good things are entrusted to us to be given to the poor, the hungry, and the despised. Lent begins this Wednesday. For 40 days we will work the blessed side of the Lord’s teaching by praying for others, feeding the hungry, and giving our money to the poor.

TODAY'S READINGS: Jeremiah 17:5-8; 1 Corinthians 15:12, 16-20; Luke 6:17, 20-26

"But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation."

DOMINGO, 14 DE FEBRERO DE 2010
SEXTO DOMINGO EN TIEMPO ORDINARIO

Intercambiando aflicciones por bendiciones

¿No es maravilloso ser rico, comer bien, y disfrutar el aprecio de la comunidad? Y si no encajas en ninguna de esas categorías, ¿no sería grandioso si lo hicieras? Entonces ¿por qué supones que Jesús lamentaba el destino de la gente rica? Probablemente porque tendemos a pensar que la riqueza, la abundancia, y la aceptación es para nosotros. En realidad esas cosas buenas son encomendadas a nosotros para ser dadas a los pobres, los hambrientos, y los despreciados. La Cuaresma comienza este miércoles. Por 40 días trabajaremos el lado bendito de las enseñanzas del Señor al orar por los demás, alimentando a los hambrientos, y dando nuestro dinero a los pobres.

LECTURAS DE HOY: Jeremías 17:5-8; 1 Corintios 15:12, 16-20; Lucas 6:17, 20-26

"Sin embargo aflíjanse ustedes que son ricos, porque ustedes han recibido su consuelo."

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15

Wisdom vs. IQ

The school of wisdom isn’t equivalent to a university. If that were so our leaders would be heroes and our economy would be sound. A high IQ and a pile of diplomas can lead to marital and fiscal disasters just as quickly as any other background. Wisdom is an attribute of God, which means we have to go to God to get it. Once gained it’s contagious, or as Saint Louis de Montfort put it: “Wisdom gives not only light to know the truth but also a remarkable power to impart it to others.” Seek wisdom—for all our sakes!

TODAY'S READINGS: James 1:1-11; Mark 8:11-13

"If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly."

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16

Just the facts

At a time in our country when we most need unity, we are divided. We face many difficult issues at one time—war and national security, healthcare, immigration, fiscal policies—each demanding serious attention. Yet our political debate has become toxic. We no longer seem willing to listen carefully, argue dispassionately, or disagree respectfully—much less reach for a compromise of any kind. The internet plays an important role here. One misleading statement plus 24 hours equals the next fracas that distracts us from the real issue. In both bread and politics a little yeast goes a long way. Remember, then, to read widely and pay attention to your sources. Where are your “facts” coming from? Do you trust the person or organization making the statements?

TODAY'S READINGS: James 1:12-18; Mark 8:14-21

"Watch out—beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and the yeast of Herod."

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17
ASH WEDNESDAY

Readjust your priorities

The season of Lent is here, and that means doom-and-gloom and giving stuff up, right? Not so! Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving are three ways the church encourages us to enter into Lent. This season is a time of preparation. It is a time to free ourselves from the things that are not helpful in our lives and move into a deeper relationship with God, our family and friends, and the church community. It is a time to celebrate the gifts God has given us, to examine how well we live those gifts, and to clear away the things that prevent us from being the gifted person we are. Take time today, right now, to consider how God is inviting you to be free and more present to God and to all the people in your life.

TODAY'S READINGS: Joel 2:12-18; 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2; Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

"Return to the Lord, your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger."

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18
THURSDAY AFTER ASH WEDNESDAY

Losing it

What does it mean to “lose one’s life” for the sake of Jesus? In certain times and places it could literally mean martyrdom. But for many of us the phrase might involve something a little different. Lent is a good time to consider a bit of healthy self-denial as one path we can take toward greater awareness of Jesus and his inspiring message. Something as simple as the proverbial giving up of chocolate can serve as a reminder of our deeper spiritual hunger. Acts of charitable service also help. As we get outside our small world and connect with those in great need, we just might find the road to salvation.

TODAY'S READINGS: Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Luke 9:22-25

"Those who lose their life for my sake will save it."

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19
FRIDAY AFTER ASH WEDNESDAY

Not so fast!

Lent is just getting under way, a good time to carefully consider one of its key traditions: fasting. What can fasting mean in our health-conscious culture? The fasting of Lent is not about eating less for its own sake. In the Book of Isaiah, God addresses the mistake of settling for the outward trappings of penance. “Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free . . . ? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover them, and not to hide yourself from your own kin? Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up quickly; your vindicator shall go before you, the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.” Now that’s fasting!

TODAY'S READINGS: Isaiah 58:1-9a; Matthew 9:14-15

"Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?"

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20
SATURDAY AFTER ASH WEDNESDAY

The mark of the sinner

The checkout clerk looked at you kind of funny. “You’ve got something on your forehead,” she said, unaware of Ash Wednesday. We spend the day with a mixture of pride and embarrassment. We’re proud to be Catholic, but we’re a little uneasy about appearing in public wearing such a strange sign. Some think the ashes mark the righteous, those who go to church. But in reality it expresses our need for repentance. Jesus calls those who need the mercy and compassion of God so that the life-changing power of forgiveness might be experienced. Lent is a time for us to become familiar with that saving power.

TODAY'S READINGS: Isaiah 58:9b-14; Luke 5:27-32

"I have come to call not the righteous but sinners to repentance."

Contributors: Father Paul Boudreau, Daniel Grippo, Father Larry Janowski, O.F.M., Ann O’Connor, Joel Schorn, Patrice J. Tuohy, and Sister Julie Vieira, I.H.M.

©2010 by TrueQuest Communications, L.L.C. PHONE: 800-942-2811; E-MAIL: mail@takefiveforfaith.com; WEBSITE: www.takefiveforfaith.com. Licensed for noncommercial use. All rights reserved. Scripture quotes come from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible.