From: Luke 21:25-28, 34-36
Discourse on the Destruction of Jerusalem
and the End of the World (Continuation)
(Jesus said to his disciples), [25] "And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and upon the earth distress of nations in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, [26] men fainting with fear and foreboding of what is coming on the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. [27] And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. [28] Now when these things begin to take place, look up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.
The Need for Vigilance
[34] "But take heed to yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a snare; [35] for it will come upon all who dwell upon the face of the whole earth. [36] But watch at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man."
_____________________________
Commentary:
25-26. Jesus refers to the dramatic changes in natural elements when the world is coming to an end. "The powers of the heavens will be shaken"; that is to say, the whole universe will tremble at the Lord's coming in power and glory.
27-28. Applying to himself the prophecy of Daniel (7:13-14), our Lord speaks of his coming in glory at the end of time. Mankind will see the power and glory of the Son of man, coming to judge the living and the dead. Christ will deliver this judgment in his human capacity. Sacred Scripture describes the solemnity of this event, when the sentence passed on each person in the particular judgment will be confirmed, and God's justice and mercy to men throughout history will shine out for all to see. "It was necessary not only that rewards should await the just and punishments the wicked, in the life to come, but that they should be awarded by a public and general judgment. Thus they will become better known and will be rendered more conspicuous to all, and a tribute of praise will be offered by all to the justice and providence of God" ("St Pius V Catechism", I, 8, 4).
This coming of the Lord is, then, a day of terror for evildoers and of joy for those who have remained faithful. The disciples should hold their heads high because their redemption is at hand. It is the day they will receive their reward. The victory won by Christ on the cross--victory over sin, over the devil and over death--will now be seen clearly, with all its implications. Therefore St Paul recommends that we be "awaiting our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ" (Tit 2:13).
"He [Christ] ascended into heaven whence he will come again to judge the living and the dead, each according to his merits. Those who have responded to the love and compassion of God will go into eternal life. Those who have refused them to the end will be consigned to the fire that is never extinguished" (Paul VI, "Creed of the People of God", 12).
34-36. At the end of His discourse Jesus emphasizes that every Christian needs to be vigilant: we do not know the day nor the hour in which He will ask us to render an account of our lives. Therefore, we must at all times be trying to do God's will, so that death, whenever it comes, will find us ready. For those who act in this way, sudden death never takes them by surprise. As St. Paul recommends: "You are not in darkness, brethren, for that day to surprise you like a thief" (1 Thessalonians 5:4). Vigilance consists in making a constant effort not to be attached to the things of this world (the concupiscence of the flesh, the concupiscence of the eyes and pride of life: cf. 1 John 2:16) and in being assiduous in prayer, which keeps us close to God. If we live in this way, the day we die will be a day of joy and not of terror, for with God's help our vigilance will mean that our souls are ready to receive the visit of our Lord; they are in the state of grace: in meeting Christ we will not be meeting a judge who will find us guilty; instead He will embrace us and lead us into the house of His Father to remain there forever. "Does your soul not burn with the desire to make your Father-God happy when He has to judge you?" ([St] J. Escriva, "The Way", 746).
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Principles and Practices, November 29
SPIRITUAL IDLENESS
If of all graces that of perseverance is the most precious, because it is the one which makes all the others of lasting value, certainly among the vices which beset the devout life spiritual idleness is one of the chief; for it is the contradictory of perseverance. Yet I doubt whether practically we regard it with the fear which it deserves.
All the three dispositions of our normal state, fatigue especially, are desolated by it. Struggle is tempted to give way to laziness and to take recreation apart from Christ. Fatigue is sorely drawn in its aching lassitude to fall from dry interior faith, and to seek consolation in creatures, a step almost as fatal as going to sleep in the snow. Rest murmurs when the trumpet sounds to renew the fight, and would fain prolong itself by natural means when supernatural means have ceased.
-Faber.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
If of all graces that of perseverance is the most precious, because it is the one which makes all the others of lasting value, certainly among the vices which beset the devout life spiritual idleness is one of the chief; for it is the contradictory of perseverance. Yet I doubt whether practically we regard it with the fear which it deserves.
All the three dispositions of our normal state, fatigue especially, are desolated by it. Struggle is tempted to give way to laziness and to take recreation apart from Christ. Fatigue is sorely drawn in its aching lassitude to fall from dry interior faith, and to seek consolation in creatures, a step almost as fatal as going to sleep in the snow. Rest murmurs when the trumpet sounds to renew the fight, and would fain prolong itself by natural means when supernatural means have ceased.
-Faber.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 28
Patience
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
ABANDONMENT OR ABSOLUTE SURRENDER TO DIVINE PROVIDENCE
[Continued from yesterday]
If we do not lose sight of these principles, which no Christian can question, we shall understand that our confidence in the providence of our Father in heaven cannot be too great, too absolute, too child-like. If nothing but what He permits happens, and if He can permit nothing but what is for our happiness, then we have nothing to fear, except not being sufficiently submissive to God. As long as we keep ourselves united with Him and we walk after His designs, were all creatures to turn against us they could not harm us. He who relies upon God becomes by this very reliance as powerful and as invincible as God, and created powers can no more prevail against him than against God Himself.
This confidence in the fatherly providence of God cannot, evidently, dispense us from doing all that is in our power to accomplish His design; but after having done all that depends upon our efforts we will abandon ourselves completely to God for the rest.
St. Vincent de Paul tells us: "One act of resignation to the divine will in that which is contrary to our inclination is of more value than ten thousand words of thanks for that which conforms to our taste."
St. Vincent showed by the sweetness of his words and the serenity of his countenance that he looked upon all the events of life with equal indifference. He never lost sight of his great maxim, "Nothing happens in the world but by the order of divine Providence." Into the arms of Providence he threw himself and abandoned himself entirely. A worthy prelate who was struck with admiration at his constant sweetness, which nothing could disturb, said, "Father Vincent is always Father Vincent."
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
ABANDONMENT OR ABSOLUTE SURRENDER TO DIVINE PROVIDENCE
[Continued from yesterday]
If we do not lose sight of these principles, which no Christian can question, we shall understand that our confidence in the providence of our Father in heaven cannot be too great, too absolute, too child-like. If nothing but what He permits happens, and if He can permit nothing but what is for our happiness, then we have nothing to fear, except not being sufficiently submissive to God. As long as we keep ourselves united with Him and we walk after His designs, were all creatures to turn against us they could not harm us. He who relies upon God becomes by this very reliance as powerful and as invincible as God, and created powers can no more prevail against him than against God Himself.
This confidence in the fatherly providence of God cannot, evidently, dispense us from doing all that is in our power to accomplish His design; but after having done all that depends upon our efforts we will abandon ourselves completely to God for the rest.
St. Vincent de Paul tells us: "One act of resignation to the divine will in that which is contrary to our inclination is of more value than ten thousand words of thanks for that which conforms to our taste."
St. Vincent showed by the sweetness of his words and the serenity of his countenance that he looked upon all the events of life with equal indifference. He never lost sight of his great maxim, "Nothing happens in the world but by the order of divine Providence." Into the arms of Providence he threw himself and abandoned himself entirely. A worthy prelate who was struck with admiration at his constant sweetness, which nothing could disturb, said, "Father Vincent is always Father Vincent."
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Friday, November 27, 2009
Gospel for Saturday, 34th Week in Ordinary Time
From: Luke 21:34-36
The Need for Vigilance
(Jesus said to His disciples), [34] "But take heed to yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a snare; [35] for it will come upon all who dwell upon the face of the whole earth. [36] But watch at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man."
___________________
Commentary:
34-36. At the end of His discourse Jesus emphasizes that every Christian needs to be vigilant: we do not know the day nor the hour in which He will ask us to render an account of our lives. Therefore, we must at all times be trying to do God's will, so that death, whenever it comes, will find us ready. For those who act in this way, sudden death never takes them by surprise. As St. Paul recommends: "You are not in darkness, brethren, for that day to surprise you like a thief" (1 Thessalonians 5:4). Vigilance consists in making a constant effort not to be attached to the things of this world (the concupiscence of the flesh, the concupiscence of the eyes and pride of life: cf. John 2:16) and in being assiduous in prayer, which keeps us close to God. If we live in this way, the day we die will be a day of joy and not of terror, for with God's help our vigilance will mean that our souls are ready to receive the visit of our Lord; they are in the state of grace: in meeting Christ we will not be meeting a judge who will find us guilty; instead He will embrace us and lead us into the house of His Father to remain there forever. "Does your soul not burn with the desire to make your Father-God happy when He has to judge you?" ([St] J. Escriva, "The Way", 746).
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
The Need for Vigilance
(Jesus said to His disciples), [34] "But take heed to yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a snare; [35] for it will come upon all who dwell upon the face of the whole earth. [36] But watch at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man."
___________________
Commentary:
34-36. At the end of His discourse Jesus emphasizes that every Christian needs to be vigilant: we do not know the day nor the hour in which He will ask us to render an account of our lives. Therefore, we must at all times be trying to do God's will, so that death, whenever it comes, will find us ready. For those who act in this way, sudden death never takes them by surprise. As St. Paul recommends: "You are not in darkness, brethren, for that day to surprise you like a thief" (1 Thessalonians 5:4). Vigilance consists in making a constant effort not to be attached to the things of this world (the concupiscence of the flesh, the concupiscence of the eyes and pride of life: cf. John 2:16) and in being assiduous in prayer, which keeps us close to God. If we live in this way, the day we die will be a day of joy and not of terror, for with God's help our vigilance will mean that our souls are ready to receive the visit of our Lord; they are in the state of grace: in meeting Christ we will not be meeting a judge who will find us guilty; instead He will embrace us and lead us into the house of His Father to remain there forever. "Does your soul not burn with the desire to make your Father-God happy when He has to judge you?" ([St] J. Escriva, "The Way", 746).
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - November 28
THE SOUL IN SENSIBLE QUIETUDE
Since for a long time past Our Lord has called you to this kind of prayer, granting to you to taste the sweetness of its fruits and to know the evils of the contrary method, stand firm therein, and as quietly as you can bring your mind back to this single consciousness of the presence of God and of self-abandonment in Him. And since your spirit desires that I should have recourse to obedience, I say this to it: Dear spirit, why strive to act the part of Martha in prayer, when God shows you that He wills you to take that of Mary? I command you, therefore, to abide simply in God or close to Him, without seeking to do anything or ask anything of Him whatever, save at His inspiration. Do not review your own conduct, only abide in His presence.
-St. Francis of Sales.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Since for a long time past Our Lord has called you to this kind of prayer, granting to you to taste the sweetness of its fruits and to know the evils of the contrary method, stand firm therein, and as quietly as you can bring your mind back to this single consciousness of the presence of God and of self-abandonment in Him. And since your spirit desires that I should have recourse to obedience, I say this to it: Dear spirit, why strive to act the part of Martha in prayer, when God shows you that He wills you to take that of Mary? I command you, therefore, to abide simply in God or close to Him, without seeking to do anything or ask anything of Him whatever, save at His inspiration. Do not review your own conduct, only abide in His presence.
-St. Francis of Sales.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 27
Patience
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
ABANDONMENT OR ABSOLUTE SURRENDER TO DIVINE PROVIDENCE
"We know that to them that love God, all things work together unto good, to such as, according to His purpose, are called to be saints" (Rom. viii. 28). These words of St. Paul are an encouragement to all who suffer; they should incite every follower of Christ to the patient endurance of trials and tribulations.
In his preface to the highly commendable work of the Rev. J. P. De Caussade, S.J., on "Abandonment or Absolute Surrender to Divine Providence," Father Ramiere accentuates three principles which form the basis of the virtue of abandonment:
First Principle: Nothing is done, nothing happens, either in the material or in the moral world, which God has not foreseen from all eternity and which He has not willed or at least permitted.
Second Principle: God can will nothing, He can permit nothing, but in view of the end He proposed to Himself in creating the world, namely, in view of His glory and the glory of the Man-God, Jesus Christ, His only Son.
Third Principle: As long as man lives upon earth, God desires to be glorified through the happiness of this privileged creature, and consequently in God's designs the interest of man's sanctification and happiness is inseparable from dIe interest of the divine glory.
If we do not lose sight of these principles, which no Christian can question, we shall understand that our confidence in the providence of our Father in heaven cannot be too great, too absolute, too child-like... [Continued tomorrow]
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
ABANDONMENT OR ABSOLUTE SURRENDER TO DIVINE PROVIDENCE
"We know that to them that love God, all things work together unto good, to such as, according to His purpose, are called to be saints" (Rom. viii. 28). These words of St. Paul are an encouragement to all who suffer; they should incite every follower of Christ to the patient endurance of trials and tribulations.
In his preface to the highly commendable work of the Rev. J. P. De Caussade, S.J., on "Abandonment or Absolute Surrender to Divine Providence," Father Ramiere accentuates three principles which form the basis of the virtue of abandonment:
First Principle: Nothing is done, nothing happens, either in the material or in the moral world, which God has not foreseen from all eternity and which He has not willed or at least permitted.
Second Principle: God can will nothing, He can permit nothing, but in view of the end He proposed to Himself in creating the world, namely, in view of His glory and the glory of the Man-God, Jesus Christ, His only Son.
Third Principle: As long as man lives upon earth, God desires to be glorified through the happiness of this privileged creature, and consequently in God's designs the interest of man's sanctification and happiness is inseparable from dIe interest of the divine glory.
If we do not lose sight of these principles, which no Christian can question, we shall understand that our confidence in the providence of our Father in heaven cannot be too great, too absolute, too child-like... [Continued tomorrow]
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Principles and Practices - November 27
WHAT SIN IS
Sin is the evil of God; it is opposed to all His perfections, which it wounds, dishonours, and outrages. God is truth; sin is error and lying; God is infinite goodness; sin is wickedness and malice itself; God is essential purity and holiness; sin is defilement, abomination and opprobrium; God is infinite justice; sin is disorder and injustice; God is unity; sin is division; God is the necessary Being; sin is nothingness. Wherefore sin is the opposite of God, directly opposed to all His divine perfections; God is the supreme Good, sin is the supreme evil.
-F. Girardey, C.SS.R.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Sin is the evil of God; it is opposed to all His perfections, which it wounds, dishonours, and outrages. God is truth; sin is error and lying; God is infinite goodness; sin is wickedness and malice itself; God is essential purity and holiness; sin is defilement, abomination and opprobrium; God is infinite justice; sin is disorder and injustice; God is unity; sin is division; God is the necessary Being; sin is nothingness. Wherefore sin is the opposite of God, directly opposed to all His divine perfections; God is the supreme Good, sin is the supreme evil.
-F. Girardey, C.SS.R.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 26
Patience
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
THE SCHOOL OF SORROW
I sat in the school of sorrow;
The Master was teaching there;
But my eyes were dim with weeping
And my heart oppressed wi th care.
Instead of looking upward,
And seeing His face divine,
So full of tender compassion
For weary hearts like mine,
I only thought of the burden
The cross that before me lay,
The clouds that hung thick above me
Dark'ning the light of day.
So I could not learn my lesson,
And say, "Thy will be done";
And the Master came not near me
As the leaden hours went on.
At last, in despair I lifted
My streaming eyes above,
And I saw the Master watching
With a look of pitying love.
To the cross before me He pointed,
And I thought I heard Him say:
"My child, thou must take thy burden,
And learn thy task to-day.
"Not now may I tell the reason;
'Tis enough for thee to know
That I, the Master, am teaching,
And appoint thee all thy woe."
Then kneeling, the cross I lifted;
For one glimpse of that Face divine
Had given me strength to bear it,
And say: "Thy will, not mine."
And so I learned my lesson,
And through the weary years
His helping hand sustained me,
And wiped away my tears.
And ever the glorious sunlight,
From the heavenly home streamed down,
Where the school tasks are all ended,
And the cross is exchanged for the crown.
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
THE SCHOOL OF SORROW
I sat in the school of sorrow;
The Master was teaching there;
But my eyes were dim with weeping
And my heart oppressed wi th care.
Instead of looking upward,
And seeing His face divine,
So full of tender compassion
For weary hearts like mine,
I only thought of the burden
The cross that before me lay,
The clouds that hung thick above me
Dark'ning the light of day.
So I could not learn my lesson,
And say, "Thy will be done";
And the Master came not near me
As the leaden hours went on.
At last, in despair I lifted
My streaming eyes above,
And I saw the Master watching
With a look of pitying love.
To the cross before me He pointed,
And I thought I heard Him say:
"My child, thou must take thy burden,
And learn thy task to-day.
"Not now may I tell the reason;
'Tis enough for thee to know
That I, the Master, am teaching,
And appoint thee all thy woe."
Then kneeling, the cross I lifted;
For one glimpse of that Face divine
Had given me strength to bear it,
And say: "Thy will, not mine."
And so I learned my lesson,
And through the weary years
His helping hand sustained me,
And wiped away my tears.
And ever the glorious sunlight,
From the heavenly home streamed down,
Where the school tasks are all ended,
And the cross is exchanged for the crown.
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Gospel for Thursday, 34th Week in Ordinary Time
From: Luke 21:20-28
Discourse on the Destruction of Jerusalem
and the End of the World (Continuation)
(Jesus said to his disciples), [20] "But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation has come near. [21] Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, and let those who are inside the city depart, and let not those who are out in the country enter it; [22] for these are days of vengeance, to fulfill all that is written. [23] Alas for those who are with child and for those who give suck in those days! For great distress shall be upon the earth and wrath upon this people; [24] they shall be upon the earth and wrath upon this people; [24] they will fall by the edge of the sword, and be led captive among all nations; and Jerusalem will be trodden down by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.
[25] "And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and upon the earth distress of nations in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, [26] men fainting with fear and foreboding of what is coming on the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. [27] And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. [28] Now when these things begin to take place, look up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.
________________________
Commentary:
20-24. Jesus gives quite a detailed prophecy of the destruction of the Holy City. When the Christians living there saw the armies getting closer, they remembered this prophecy and fled to Transjordan (cf. Eusebius, "Ecclesiastical History," III, 5). Christ had advised them to flee as soon as possible because this is the time when God would punish Jerusalem for its sins, as the Old Testament predicted (Is 5:5-6).
Catholic tradition sees Israel as symbolizing the Church. In fact, in the Book of Revelation the Church triumphant is called the heavenly Jerusalem (cf. Rev 21:2). Therefore, by applying this passage to the Church, the sufferings the Holy City experiences can symbolize the contradictions the pilgrim Church will experience due to the sins of men, for "she herself takes her place among the creatures which groan and travail yet and await the revelation of the children of God" (Vatican II, "Lumen Gentium", 48).
24. "The times of the Gentiles" means the period in which the Gentiles, who do not belong to the Jewish people, will become menbers of the new people of God, the Church, until the Jews themselves are converted at the end of the world (cf. Rom 11:11-32).
25-26. Jesus refers to the dramatic changes in natural elements when the world is coming to an end. "The powers of the heavens will be shaken"; that is to say, the whole universe will tremble at the Lord's coming in power and glory.
27-28. Applying to himself the prophecy of Daniel (7:13-14), our Lord speaks of his coming in glory at the end of time. Mankind will see the power and glory of the Son of man, coming to judge the living and the dead. Christ will deliver this judgment in his human capacity. Sacred Scripture describes the solemnity of this event, when the sentence passed on each person in the particular judgment will be confirmed, and God's justice and mercy to men throughout history will shine out for all to see. "It was necessary not only that rewards should await the just and punishments the wicked, in the life to come, but that they should be awarded by a public and general judgment. Thus they will become better known and will be rendered more conspicuous to all, and a tribute of praise will be offered by all to the justice and providence of God" ("St Pius V Catechism", I, 8, 4).
This coming of the Lord is, then, a day of terror for evildoers and of joy for those who have remained faithful. The disciples should hold their heads high because their redemption is at hand. It is the day they will receive their reward. The victory won by Christ on the cross--victory over sin, over the devil and over death--will now be seen clearly, with all its implications. Therefore St Paul recommends that we be "awaiting our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ" (Tit 2:13).
"He [Christ] ascended into heaven whence he will come again to judge the living and the dead, each according to his merits. Those who have responded to the love and compassion of God will go into eternal life. Those who have refused them to the end will be consigned to the fire that is never extinguished" (Paul VI, "Creed of the People of God", 12).
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Discourse on the Destruction of Jerusalem
and the End of the World (Continuation)
(Jesus said to his disciples), [20] "But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation has come near. [21] Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, and let those who are inside the city depart, and let not those who are out in the country enter it; [22] for these are days of vengeance, to fulfill all that is written. [23] Alas for those who are with child and for those who give suck in those days! For great distress shall be upon the earth and wrath upon this people; [24] they shall be upon the earth and wrath upon this people; [24] they will fall by the edge of the sword, and be led captive among all nations; and Jerusalem will be trodden down by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.
[25] "And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and upon the earth distress of nations in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, [26] men fainting with fear and foreboding of what is coming on the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. [27] And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. [28] Now when these things begin to take place, look up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.
________________________
Commentary:
20-24. Jesus gives quite a detailed prophecy of the destruction of the Holy City. When the Christians living there saw the armies getting closer, they remembered this prophecy and fled to Transjordan (cf. Eusebius, "Ecclesiastical History," III, 5). Christ had advised them to flee as soon as possible because this is the time when God would punish Jerusalem for its sins, as the Old Testament predicted (Is 5:5-6).
Catholic tradition sees Israel as symbolizing the Church. In fact, in the Book of Revelation the Church triumphant is called the heavenly Jerusalem (cf. Rev 21:2). Therefore, by applying this passage to the Church, the sufferings the Holy City experiences can symbolize the contradictions the pilgrim Church will experience due to the sins of men, for "she herself takes her place among the creatures which groan and travail yet and await the revelation of the children of God" (Vatican II, "Lumen Gentium", 48).
24. "The times of the Gentiles" means the period in which the Gentiles, who do not belong to the Jewish people, will become menbers of the new people of God, the Church, until the Jews themselves are converted at the end of the world (cf. Rom 11:11-32).
25-26. Jesus refers to the dramatic changes in natural elements when the world is coming to an end. "The powers of the heavens will be shaken"; that is to say, the whole universe will tremble at the Lord's coming in power and glory.
27-28. Applying to himself the prophecy of Daniel (7:13-14), our Lord speaks of his coming in glory at the end of time. Mankind will see the power and glory of the Son of man, coming to judge the living and the dead. Christ will deliver this judgment in his human capacity. Sacred Scripture describes the solemnity of this event, when the sentence passed on each person in the particular judgment will be confirmed, and God's justice and mercy to men throughout history will shine out for all to see. "It was necessary not only that rewards should await the just and punishments the wicked, in the life to come, but that they should be awarded by a public and general judgment. Thus they will become better known and will be rendered more conspicuous to all, and a tribute of praise will be offered by all to the justice and providence of God" ("St Pius V Catechism", I, 8, 4).
This coming of the Lord is, then, a day of terror for evildoers and of joy for those who have remained faithful. The disciples should hold their heads high because their redemption is at hand. It is the day they will receive their reward. The victory won by Christ on the cross--victory over sin, over the devil and over death--will now be seen clearly, with all its implications. Therefore St Paul recommends that we be "awaiting our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ" (Tit 2:13).
"He [Christ] ascended into heaven whence he will come again to judge the living and the dead, each according to his merits. Those who have responded to the love and compassion of God will go into eternal life. Those who have refused them to the end will be consigned to the fire that is never extinguished" (Paul VI, "Creed of the People of God", 12).
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - November 26
EXAMPLE OF JESUS CHRIST
Let it never be told that we care so little for Christ, that we make so little account of the most illustrious actions which He performed for our example, and that we show Him so little love. Let us often ponder what He has suffered for us, and the unconquerable patience with which he suffered; and let us do this in particular when tribulations assail us, in order that we may reproduce in ourselves the features of His wondrous endurance.
-J.B.Scaramelli, S.J.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Let it never be told that we care so little for Christ, that we make so little account of the most illustrious actions which He performed for our example, and that we show Him so little love. Let us often ponder what He has suffered for us, and the unconquerable patience with which he suffered; and let us do this in particular when tribulations assail us, in order that we may reproduce in ourselves the features of His wondrous endurance.
-J.B.Scaramelli, S.J.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 25
Patience
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
PREDESTINATION TO AN EXALTED DEGREE OF GLORY IN HEAVEN [Continued]
Now, may it not be that you who are reading these lines, may also be one of those whom the goodness of God has predestined to one of the highest places in heaven?
Should this be the case-and there is no reason why it may not be - then know that you can take possession of your appointed place only if at the moment of your death you have attained that degree of sanctity which is commensurate with the particular degree of glory intended for you. God is not willing to see you forego what He has so generously set aside for you, even though you are so lamentably blind to your best interests that you do not care whether you win it or not. And so He takes the sanctification of your soul in His own hands. By gentle pressure, yet without compulsion of your will, He makes you do what you have neither the courage nor the desire to undertake of your own accord. You can surmise what means He employs. It is the cross - pains, afflictions, tribulations, temptations; in a word, sufferings of all kinds which follow one upon the other in seemingly endless succession.
Viewed in this light, do you not discover a new and deep meaning in these words of Sacred Scripture: "Whom the Lord loveth, He chastiseth; and as a father in the son He pleaseth Himself"?
What a wonderful joy and happiness you will experience for all eternity if you succeed in mastering the truth about suffering here explained, in all your afflictions lovingly resigning yourself to the ever blessed will of Him Who has decreed such a marvelous glory for you in the life to come. Instead of looking upon sufferings as a curse and a punishment, and murmuring against Divine Providence, try rather to welcome your trials, rejoice in them, and fervently thank God for giving you so unmistakable a pledge of His most tender love for you.
If you master the truth about the real nature and uses of sufferings, you will soon think of them as the saints did, and, instead of praying to be delivered from them, you will, after their example, even pray for them.
-Rev. F. J. Remler, C.M.: Why Must I Suffer?
(Franciscan Herald Press)
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
PREDESTINATION TO AN EXALTED DEGREE OF GLORY IN HEAVEN [Continued]
Now, may it not be that you who are reading these lines, may also be one of those whom the goodness of God has predestined to one of the highest places in heaven?
Should this be the case-and there is no reason why it may not be - then know that you can take possession of your appointed place only if at the moment of your death you have attained that degree of sanctity which is commensurate with the particular degree of glory intended for you. God is not willing to see you forego what He has so generously set aside for you, even though you are so lamentably blind to your best interests that you do not care whether you win it or not. And so He takes the sanctification of your soul in His own hands. By gentle pressure, yet without compulsion of your will, He makes you do what you have neither the courage nor the desire to undertake of your own accord. You can surmise what means He employs. It is the cross - pains, afflictions, tribulations, temptations; in a word, sufferings of all kinds which follow one upon the other in seemingly endless succession.
Viewed in this light, do you not discover a new and deep meaning in these words of Sacred Scripture: "Whom the Lord loveth, He chastiseth; and as a father in the son He pleaseth Himself"?
What a wonderful joy and happiness you will experience for all eternity if you succeed in mastering the truth about suffering here explained, in all your afflictions lovingly resigning yourself to the ever blessed will of Him Who has decreed such a marvelous glory for you in the life to come. Instead of looking upon sufferings as a curse and a punishment, and murmuring against Divine Providence, try rather to welcome your trials, rejoice in them, and fervently thank God for giving you so unmistakable a pledge of His most tender love for you.
If you master the truth about the real nature and uses of sufferings, you will soon think of them as the saints did, and, instead of praying to be delivered from them, you will, after their example, even pray for them.
-Rev. F. J. Remler, C.M.: Why Must I Suffer?
(Franciscan Herald Press)
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
News Updates, 11/25
A Christmas Insult to Christians
Third Circuit Approves School’s Ban on “Silent Night” — But Allows “Frosty the Snowman”
[This is the country we live in...quickly eroding faster and faster into a God-less country...and toward its collapse!]
Groups decry 'Hardball' treatment of Bishop Tobin
Chris Matthews goes apoplectic, rants at Church leader
Two Senate hopefuls criticize R.I. bishop
Capuano, Coakley support Congressman Patrick Kennedy
Push to rids schools of crucifixes in Spain
Ministry of Justice wants religious symbols gone
Web site targeting 'hypocritical' gay priests
Homosexual activists want ammunition to pummel Church
Baltimore city council passes pregnancy center bill
Pregnancy centers must disclose their pro-life status
Four US bishops refused to collect for CCHD
Funding to ACORN and other anti-Church orgs at issue
FBI: Hate crimes against religious groups on rise
Catholics, Jews, targets for those who disagree with them
TIME: Charles Darwin's legacy has a dark side
Scientist was wrong, and his ideas have been abused
Health bill revives abortion group activism
Both sides mobilizing support like they haven't in years
Third Circuit Approves School’s Ban on “Silent Night” — But Allows “Frosty the Snowman”
[This is the country we live in...quickly eroding faster and faster into a God-less country...and toward its collapse!]
Groups decry 'Hardball' treatment of Bishop Tobin
Chris Matthews goes apoplectic, rants at Church leader
Two Senate hopefuls criticize R.I. bishop
Capuano, Coakley support Congressman Patrick Kennedy
Push to rids schools of crucifixes in Spain
Ministry of Justice wants religious symbols gone
Web site targeting 'hypocritical' gay priests
Homosexual activists want ammunition to pummel Church
Baltimore city council passes pregnancy center bill
Pregnancy centers must disclose their pro-life status
Four US bishops refused to collect for CCHD
Funding to ACORN and other anti-Church orgs at issue
FBI: Hate crimes against religious groups on rise
Catholics, Jews, targets for those who disagree with them
TIME: Charles Darwin's legacy has a dark side
Scientist was wrong, and his ideas have been abused
Health bill revives abortion group activism
Both sides mobilizing support like they haven't in years
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Gospel for Wednesday, 34th Week in Ordinary Time
From: Luke 21:12-19
Discourse on the Destruction of Jerusalem and the End of the World (Continuation)
(Jesus said to His disciples), [12] "But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for My name's sake. [13] This will be a time for you to bear testimony. [14] Settle it therefore in your minds, not to meditate beforehand how to answer; [15] for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict. [16] You will be delivered up even by parents and brothers and kinsmen and friends, and some of you they will put to death; [17] you will be hated by all for My name's sake. [18] But not a hair of your head will perish. [19] By your endurance you will gain your lives."
________________________
Commentary:
19. Jesus foretells all kinds of persecution. Persecution itself is something inevitable: "all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Timothy 3:12). His disciples will have need to remember the Lord's warning at the Last Supper: "A servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you" (John 15:20). However, these persecutions are part of God's providence: they happen because He lets them happen, which He does in order to draw greater good out of them. Persecution provides Christians with an opportunity to bear witness to Christ; without it the blood of martyrs would not adorn the Church. Moreover, our Lord promises to give special help to those who suffer persecution, and He tells them not to be afraid: He will give them of His own wisdom to enable them to defend themselves; He will not permit a hair of their heads to perish, that is, even apparent misfortune and loss will be for them a beginning of Heaven.
From Jesus' words we can also deduce the obligation of every Christian to be ready to lose life rather than offend God. Only those will attain salvation who persevere until the end in faithfulness to the Lord. The three Synoptic Gospels locate His exhortation to perseverance in this discourse (cf. Matthew 24:13; Mark 13:13) and St. Matthew gives it elsewhere (Matthew 10:22) as does St. Peter (1 Peter 5:9)--all of which underlines the importance for every Christian of this warning from our Lord.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Discourse on the Destruction of Jerusalem and the End of the World (Continuation)
(Jesus said to His disciples), [12] "But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for My name's sake. [13] This will be a time for you to bear testimony. [14] Settle it therefore in your minds, not to meditate beforehand how to answer; [15] for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict. [16] You will be delivered up even by parents and brothers and kinsmen and friends, and some of you they will put to death; [17] you will be hated by all for My name's sake. [18] But not a hair of your head will perish. [19] By your endurance you will gain your lives."
________________________
Commentary:
19. Jesus foretells all kinds of persecution. Persecution itself is something inevitable: "all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Timothy 3:12). His disciples will have need to remember the Lord's warning at the Last Supper: "A servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you" (John 15:20). However, these persecutions are part of God's providence: they happen because He lets them happen, which He does in order to draw greater good out of them. Persecution provides Christians with an opportunity to bear witness to Christ; without it the blood of martyrs would not adorn the Church. Moreover, our Lord promises to give special help to those who suffer persecution, and He tells them not to be afraid: He will give them of His own wisdom to enable them to defend themselves; He will not permit a hair of their heads to perish, that is, even apparent misfortune and loss will be for them a beginning of Heaven.
From Jesus' words we can also deduce the obligation of every Christian to be ready to lose life rather than offend God. Only those will attain salvation who persevere until the end in faithfulness to the Lord. The three Synoptic Gospels locate His exhortation to perseverance in this discourse (cf. Matthew 24:13; Mark 13:13) and St. Matthew gives it elsewhere (Matthew 10:22) as does St. Peter (1 Peter 5:9)--all of which underlines the importance for every Christian of this warning from our Lord.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - November 25
LET ME SEE HIM IN THINGS
When I see in things that which leads to God, I see the truth. For this true, this entirely true, side of creatures is that which glorifies God, since that is its essential destiny and the fundamental reason of its existence. The whole constitution and properties of beings are ordained and disposed to procure the glory of their Author. The great and full truth of things is their aptitude for revealing the greatness of God. When I see them in this light, I have the truth, which is the law and the life of my mind.
-Tissot.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
When I see in things that which leads to God, I see the truth. For this true, this entirely true, side of creatures is that which glorifies God, since that is its essential destiny and the fundamental reason of its existence. The whole constitution and properties of beings are ordained and disposed to procure the glory of their Author. The great and full truth of things is their aptitude for revealing the greatness of God. When I see them in this light, I have the truth, which is the law and the life of my mind.
-Tissot.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 24
Patience
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
PREDESTINATION TO AN EXALTED DEGREE OF GLORY IN HEAVEN
Star differeth from star in glory.
-1 Cor. xv. 41.
God, Who loves you with a love that surpasses all understanding, may have predestined you to enjoy for all eternity an exceptionally high degree of glory in heaven. If you are weighed down by heavy crosses and painful afflictions, despite the fact that you have long tried to lead a sinless life and to love God above all things, it is very likely because the Divine Goodness has most wonderful designs on you for eternity.
As the sun, moon, and stars differ greatly in size and brilliancy, so also do the saints in heaven differ greatly in the splendor of their glory. Our divine Saviour assures us that on the day of Judgment every man shall receive his own proper reward of good or of evil, and that in His Father's house, that is, in heaven, there are many mansions. The glory and happiness that will be allotted to the elect will be of many varieties, both as to kind and as to degree. No doubt there are many saints who possess what are the lowest degrees, such as, infants who died after Baptism, before they attained the use of reason, and pagans and lifelong sinners who were converted just before death; but there are also very many who are crowned with a glory and an honor so immense that they will rank with the most exalted of the angelic choirs. Some may even be still higher. This we know is the case with the Blessed Virgin Mary, whose glory far exceeds that of all the angels and saints...
[Continued tomorrow]
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
PREDESTINATION TO AN EXALTED DEGREE OF GLORY IN HEAVEN
Star differeth from star in glory.
-1 Cor. xv. 41.
God, Who loves you with a love that surpasses all understanding, may have predestined you to enjoy for all eternity an exceptionally high degree of glory in heaven. If you are weighed down by heavy crosses and painful afflictions, despite the fact that you have long tried to lead a sinless life and to love God above all things, it is very likely because the Divine Goodness has most wonderful designs on you for eternity.
As the sun, moon, and stars differ greatly in size and brilliancy, so also do the saints in heaven differ greatly in the splendor of their glory. Our divine Saviour assures us that on the day of Judgment every man shall receive his own proper reward of good or of evil, and that in His Father's house, that is, in heaven, there are many mansions. The glory and happiness that will be allotted to the elect will be of many varieties, both as to kind and as to degree. No doubt there are many saints who possess what are the lowest degrees, such as, infants who died after Baptism, before they attained the use of reason, and pagans and lifelong sinners who were converted just before death; but there are also very many who are crowned with a glory and an honor so immense that they will rank with the most exalted of the angelic choirs. Some may even be still higher. This we know is the case with the Blessed Virgin Mary, whose glory far exceeds that of all the angels and saints...
[Continued tomorrow]
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
News Updates, 11/24
Abortion battle to be waged in Baltimore
City Council proposes crack-down on faith-based orgs
Mass. DA cut priest sex abuser deal in 1995
Agreed not to prosecute three schoolboys' complaints
[Enablers...]
Nun: Pope would whip himself before ordinations
John Paul II practiced regular self-mortification
Ghana bishops condemn pedophilia, homosexuality
...and killing of others for power and wealth
Rebel priest says he's willing to step down
Polish parish and archdiocese have long been at odds
[Marek Bozek is a schismatic fraud]
Canadian child-porn bishop gets new court date
Ottawa airport found illegal images of children on laptop
Diocese seeks OK for benefits to accused priests
Says Church has 'an obligation under Canon Law'
Palestinian nun takes step toward sainthood
Co-founded charity dedicated to educating Arab girls
4,000 Anglican priests to join Catholics
'We are not becoming soft on celibacy for Catholic priests'
Other Issues
===========
Spitzer calls Geithner out regarding AIG payouts
The new AIG report reveals how the Treasury secretary—and U.S. taxpayers—were fleeced by Wall Street banks.
City Council proposes crack-down on faith-based orgs
Mass. DA cut priest sex abuser deal in 1995
Agreed not to prosecute three schoolboys' complaints
[Enablers...]
Nun: Pope would whip himself before ordinations
John Paul II practiced regular self-mortification
Ghana bishops condemn pedophilia, homosexuality
...and killing of others for power and wealth
Rebel priest says he's willing to step down
Polish parish and archdiocese have long been at odds
[Marek Bozek is a schismatic fraud]
Canadian child-porn bishop gets new court date
Ottawa airport found illegal images of children on laptop
Diocese seeks OK for benefits to accused priests
Says Church has 'an obligation under Canon Law'
Palestinian nun takes step toward sainthood
Co-founded charity dedicated to educating Arab girls
4,000 Anglican priests to join Catholics
'We are not becoming soft on celibacy for Catholic priests'
Other Issues
===========
Spitzer calls Geithner out regarding AIG payouts
The new AIG report reveals how the Treasury secretary—and U.S. taxpayers—were fleeced by Wall Street banks.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Gospel for Nov 24, Memorial: St Andrew Dung-Lac, Priest and Martyr, and Companions, Martyrs
Tuesday, 34th and Final Week in Ordinary Time
From: Luke 21:5-11
Discourse on the Destruction of Jerusalem and the End of the World
[5] And as some spoke of the temple, how it was adorned with noble stones and offerings, He (Jesus) said, [6] "As for these things which you see, the days will come when there shall not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down." [7] And they asked Him, "Teacher, when will this be, and what will be the sign when this is about to take place?" [8] And He said, "Take heed that you are not led astray; for many will come in My name, saying, 'I am He!' and, 'The time is at hand!' Do not go after them. [9] And when you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified; for this must first take place, but the end will not be at once."
[10] Then He said to them, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; [11] there will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences; and there will be terrors and great signs from heaven."
______________________
Commentary:
5-36. The disciples are in awe of the magnificence of the temple, and Jesus uses the occasion to give a long discourse, known as the "eschatological discourse" because it has to do with the last days of the world. The account given here is very similar to those in the other Synoptic Gospels (cf. Mt 24:1-51; Mk 13:1-37). The discourse deals with three inter-connected subjects--the destruction of Jerusalem (which took place some forty years later), the end of the world, andthe second coming of Christ in glory and majesty. Jesus, who also predicts here the persecution of the Church will experience, exhorts His disciples to be patient, to pray and be watchful.
Our Lord speaks here in the style and language of prophecy, using images taken from the Old Testament; also, in this discourse prophecies which are going to be fulfilled very soon are mixed in with others which have to do with the end of the world. It is not our Lord's intention to satisfy people's curiosity about future events, but to protect them from being discouraged and scandalized about what is going to happen in the days immediately ahead. This explains why He exhorts them: "Take heed that you are not led astray" (v. 8); "do not be tempted" (v. 9); "watch at all times" (v. 34).
8. On hearing that Jerusalem is going to be destroyed, the disciples ask what sign will be given as a warning of these events (vv. 5-7). Jesus answers by telling them "not to be led astray," that is to say, not to expect any warning; not to be misled by false prophets; to stay faithful to Him. These false prophets will come along claiming to be the Messiah ("I am He!"). Our Lord's reply in fact refers to two events which in the Jewish mind were interrelated--the destruction of the Holy City and the end of the world. This is why He goes on to speak of both events and implies that there will be a long gap between the two; the destruction of the temple and of Jerusalem are a kind of sign or symbol of the catastrophes which will mark the end of the world.
9-11. Our Lord does not want His disciples to confuse just any catastrophe--famine, earthquake, war--or even persecution with the signals of the end of the world. He exhorts them quite clearly: "Do not be tempted," because although all these has to happen, "the end will not be at once;" in spite of the difficulties of all kinds the Gospel will spread to the ends of the earth. Difficulties should not paralyze the preaching of the faith.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
From: Luke 21:5-11
Discourse on the Destruction of Jerusalem and the End of the World
[5] And as some spoke of the temple, how it was adorned with noble stones and offerings, He (Jesus) said, [6] "As for these things which you see, the days will come when there shall not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down." [7] And they asked Him, "Teacher, when will this be, and what will be the sign when this is about to take place?" [8] And He said, "Take heed that you are not led astray; for many will come in My name, saying, 'I am He!' and, 'The time is at hand!' Do not go after them. [9] And when you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified; for this must first take place, but the end will not be at once."
[10] Then He said to them, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; [11] there will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences; and there will be terrors and great signs from heaven."
______________________
Commentary:
5-36. The disciples are in awe of the magnificence of the temple, and Jesus uses the occasion to give a long discourse, known as the "eschatological discourse" because it has to do with the last days of the world. The account given here is very similar to those in the other Synoptic Gospels (cf. Mt 24:1-51; Mk 13:1-37). The discourse deals with three inter-connected subjects--the destruction of Jerusalem (which took place some forty years later), the end of the world, andthe second coming of Christ in glory and majesty. Jesus, who also predicts here the persecution of the Church will experience, exhorts His disciples to be patient, to pray and be watchful.
Our Lord speaks here in the style and language of prophecy, using images taken from the Old Testament; also, in this discourse prophecies which are going to be fulfilled very soon are mixed in with others which have to do with the end of the world. It is not our Lord's intention to satisfy people's curiosity about future events, but to protect them from being discouraged and scandalized about what is going to happen in the days immediately ahead. This explains why He exhorts them: "Take heed that you are not led astray" (v. 8); "do not be tempted" (v. 9); "watch at all times" (v. 34).
8. On hearing that Jerusalem is going to be destroyed, the disciples ask what sign will be given as a warning of these events (vv. 5-7). Jesus answers by telling them "not to be led astray," that is to say, not to expect any warning; not to be misled by false prophets; to stay faithful to Him. These false prophets will come along claiming to be the Messiah ("I am He!"). Our Lord's reply in fact refers to two events which in the Jewish mind were interrelated--the destruction of the Holy City and the end of the world. This is why He goes on to speak of both events and implies that there will be a long gap between the two; the destruction of the temple and of Jerusalem are a kind of sign or symbol of the catastrophes which will mark the end of the world.
9-11. Our Lord does not want His disciples to confuse just any catastrophe--famine, earthquake, war--or even persecution with the signals of the end of the world. He exhorts them quite clearly: "Do not be tempted," because although all these has to happen, "the end will not be at once;" in spite of the difficulties of all kinds the Gospel will spread to the ends of the earth. Difficulties should not paralyze the preaching of the faith.
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Principles and Practices - November 24
A WORTHIER OBJECT
Anything we can do to protect and brighten the home - our own first, and any other we can influence, is well worth an output of labour, ingenuity, and tact - by which we mean those little thoughtful attentions which do so much to strengthen its hold and make the wheels run smoothly. To keep this steadily before us is a worthier object than a constant round of excitement and pleasure. To lead a consistent Catholic life in our home and neighbourhood, utilizing our opportunities and being ready for little sacrifices, is no small service of God.
-Mother Mary Loyola.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Anything we can do to protect and brighten the home - our own first, and any other we can influence, is well worth an output of labour, ingenuity, and tact - by which we mean those little thoughtful attentions which do so much to strengthen its hold and make the wheels run smoothly. To keep this steadily before us is a worthier object than a constant round of excitement and pleasure. To lead a consistent Catholic life in our home and neighbourhood, utilizing our opportunities and being ready for little sacrifices, is no small service of God.
-Mother Mary Loyola.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 23
Patience
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
ACQUIRING CONFORMITY WITH JESUS CHRIST
Listen to His own words:
Consequently, if you are weighed down by crosses, though you have long tried to lead a life of piety and virtue and, therefore, imagine that you ought to be entirely free from such trials, remember that the heavenly Artist is at work transforming you by slow degrees into a perfect image of Jesus Christ.
If you keep these truths always in mind, they will strengthen and greatly encourage you when tempted to impatience or despondency. Never forget that "You shall reign with Christ in heaven only if you suffer with Him here on earth."
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
ACQUIRING CONFORMITY WITH JESUS CHRIST
Listen to His own words:
"If anyone will come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me. For whosoever shall save his life, shall lose it; and he that will lose his life for My sake, shall save it. He that taketh up not his cross and followeth Me, is not worthy of Me."Hear how St. Paul teaches the same doctrine. "You have received the Spirit of adoption of sons, whereby we cry: Abba (i.e., Father)! For the Spirit Himself giveth testimony to our spirit that we are the sons of God. And if sons, heirs also; heirs indeed of God and joint-heirs with Christ; yet so if we suffer with Him that we may also be glorified with Him."
Consequently, if you are weighed down by crosses, though you have long tried to lead a life of piety and virtue and, therefore, imagine that you ought to be entirely free from such trials, remember that the heavenly Artist is at work transforming you by slow degrees into a perfect image of Jesus Christ.
If you keep these truths always in mind, they will strengthen and greatly encourage you when tempted to impatience or despondency. Never forget that "You shall reign with Christ in heaven only if you suffer with Him here on earth."
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
News Updates, 11/23
Bishop Tobin to Kennedy: Avoid Communion
...because of RI lawmaker's support for abortion rights
Religious leaders vow civil disobedience on anti-life issues
Declaration opposes forced participation in any 'anti-life act'...More than 150 leaders across a spectrum of conservative Christianity on Friday released a 4,700-word document [the "Manhattan Declaration"] vowing civil disobedience if they are forced to take part in "anti-life acts" or bless gay marriages...
"I feel as if we're doing guerilla warfare here"
Bishop Trautman’s last stand: Pennsylvania prelate fails to persuade fellow bishops to block Vatican-approved liturgical changes
Catholics set up task force for Anglican exodus
Main issue is now the ownership of parish churches
Catholics battle over CCHD anti-poverty funding
Agencies receiving bishops' funding under investigation
Benedict XVI: Artists are 'custodians of beauty'
Complete text of Pope's speech given in Sistine Chapel
Christ's 'death certificate' found on Turin shroud
Vatican researcher claims to have discovered Jesus' name
Shutting office over Christmas is discrimination?
Employers group says it's insensitive to other religions
Christian leaders issue 'call of conscience'
Catholics, Protestants affirm opposition to abortion
Gunman kills Russian priest at Moscow church
Previously received death threats for converting Muslims
...because of RI lawmaker's support for abortion rights
Religious leaders vow civil disobedience on anti-life issues
Declaration opposes forced participation in any 'anti-life act'...More than 150 leaders across a spectrum of conservative Christianity on Friday released a 4,700-word document [the "Manhattan Declaration"] vowing civil disobedience if they are forced to take part in "anti-life acts" or bless gay marriages...
"I feel as if we're doing guerilla warfare here"
Bishop Trautman’s last stand: Pennsylvania prelate fails to persuade fellow bishops to block Vatican-approved liturgical changes
Catholics set up task force for Anglican exodus
Main issue is now the ownership of parish churches
Catholics battle over CCHD anti-poverty funding
Agencies receiving bishops' funding under investigation
Benedict XVI: Artists are 'custodians of beauty'
Complete text of Pope's speech given in Sistine Chapel
Christ's 'death certificate' found on Turin shroud
Vatican researcher claims to have discovered Jesus' name
Shutting office over Christmas is discrimination?
Employers group says it's insensitive to other religions
Christian leaders issue 'call of conscience'
Catholics, Protestants affirm opposition to abortion
Gunman kills Russian priest at Moscow church
Previously received death threats for converting Muslims
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Gospel for Monday, 34th Week in Ordinary Time
From: Luke 21:1-4
The Widow's Mite
[1] He (Jesus) looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury; [2] and He saw a poor widow put in two copper coins. [3] And He said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; [4] for they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all the living she had."
____________________
Commentary:
1-4. Our Lord, surrounded by His disciples, watches people putting offerings into the treasury. This was a place in the women's courtyard, where there were various collection boxes for the offerings of the faithful. Just then, something happens whose significance Jesus wants His disciples to notice: a poor widow puts in two small coins, of very little value. He describes this as the greatest offering of all, praising the generosity of giving alms for this purpose, particularly that of those people who give part of what they need. Our Lord is moved by this tiny offering because in her case it implies a big sacrifice. "The Lord does not look", St. John Chrysostom comments, "at the amount offered but at the affection with which it is offered" ("Hom. on Heb", 1). Generosity is of the essence of almsgiving. This woman teaches us that we can move God's heart if we give Him all we can, which will always amount to very little even if we give our very lives. "How little a life is to offer to God!" ([St] J. Escriva, "The Way", 42).
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
The Widow's Mite
[1] He (Jesus) looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury; [2] and He saw a poor widow put in two copper coins. [3] And He said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; [4] for they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all the living she had."
____________________
Commentary:
1-4. Our Lord, surrounded by His disciples, watches people putting offerings into the treasury. This was a place in the women's courtyard, where there were various collection boxes for the offerings of the faithful. Just then, something happens whose significance Jesus wants His disciples to notice: a poor widow puts in two small coins, of very little value. He describes this as the greatest offering of all, praising the generosity of giving alms for this purpose, particularly that of those people who give part of what they need. Our Lord is moved by this tiny offering because in her case it implies a big sacrifice. "The Lord does not look", St. John Chrysostom comments, "at the amount offered but at the affection with which it is offered" ("Hom. on Heb", 1). Generosity is of the essence of almsgiving. This woman teaches us that we can move God's heart if we give Him all we can, which will always amount to very little even if we give our very lives. "How little a life is to offer to God!" ([St] J. Escriva, "The Way", 42).
___________________________
Source: "The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries". Biblical text taken from the Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries made by members of the Faculty of Theology of the University of Navarre, Spain. Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland. Reprinted with permission from Four Courts Press and Scepter Publishers, the U.S. publisher.
Dr Edward Peters: Bp. Tobin, Rep. Kennedy, and Holy Communion: First question
Dr Peters writes:
Two posts in quick succession about Bp. Tobin and Rep. Kennedy, the first questioning the coherence of reported claims that Tobin has barred Kennedy from receiving Communion, the second, confirming that no such order has been issued. Not yet, anyway.Read them together here.
Principles and Practices - November 23
LOSS OF GOD'S PRESENCE
To live in God's presence is the only way to perfection. When we lose sight of Him, we walk as in the dark; we choose shadows for substances, we fall into snares and errors, we are exposed to our enemies, our infirmities, etc.
'I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, whence cometh my help' (Ps. cxx, I).
Looking down at our feet - human prudence - is not sufficient to secure us. Look upwards.
-A Master of Novices.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
To live in God's presence is the only way to perfection. When we lose sight of Him, we walk as in the dark; we choose shadows for substances, we fall into snares and errors, we are exposed to our enemies, our infirmities, etc.
'I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, whence cometh my help' (Ps. cxx, I).
Looking down at our feet - human prudence - is not sufficient to secure us. Look upwards.
-A Master of Novices.
_________________
From Principles and Practices
Compiled by Rev. J. Hogan of The Catholic Missionary Society
Published by Burns Oates & Washbourne Ltd., Publishers To The Holy See
Nihil Obstat; Eduardus J. Mahoney, S.T.D. Censor deputatus.
Imprimatur; Edm. Can. Surmont, Vicarius generalis.
First printed in 1930
Patience - November 22
Patience
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
ACQUIRING CONFORMITY WITH JESUS CHRIST
For unto this are you called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving you an example that you should follow His steps.
-1 Pet. ii. 21.
If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him.
-2 Tim. ii. 12.
Because you are predestined by God to the glory of heaven, it is necessary that you should first be conformed to the image and likeness of J esus Christ.
In several of his epistles to the first Christians, St. Paul speaks of the necessity of conformity with Jesus Christ as a condition for obtaining the crown of eternal glory. He tells them that everyone who is predestined for heaven must first be transformed into the image and likeness of the Son of God. The heavenly Father will receive as His child him only in whom He can trace the lineaments of His eternal Son, and of whom He can testify as He testified of Him on Mount Tabor: "This is My beloved Son, in Whom I am well pleased."
But Jesus Christ was a man of sorrows. From the very first moment of His earthly life down to His last breath on the cross, He suffered incessantly both in His soul and in His body. His actual passion lasted only a few hours, it is true; but its anticipation, which included the clearest foreknowledge of its minutest details, accompanied Him all through life and never left Him without suffering, no, not for a single moment.... [continued tomorrow]
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
Thoughts on the Patient Endurance of Sorrows and Sufferings
ACQUIRING CONFORMITY WITH JESUS CHRIST
For unto this are you called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving you an example that you should follow His steps.
-1 Pet. ii. 21.
If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him.
-2 Tim. ii. 12.
Because you are predestined by God to the glory of heaven, it is necessary that you should first be conformed to the image and likeness of J esus Christ.
In several of his epistles to the first Christians, St. Paul speaks of the necessity of conformity with Jesus Christ as a condition for obtaining the crown of eternal glory. He tells them that everyone who is predestined for heaven must first be transformed into the image and likeness of the Son of God. The heavenly Father will receive as His child him only in whom He can trace the lineaments of His eternal Son, and of whom He can testify as He testified of Him on Mount Tabor: "This is My beloved Son, in Whom I am well pleased."
But Jesus Christ was a man of sorrows. From the very first moment of His earthly life down to His last breath on the cross, He suffered incessantly both in His soul and in His body. His actual passion lasted only a few hours, it is true; but its anticipation, which included the clearest foreknowledge of its minutest details, accompanied Him all through life and never left Him without suffering, no, not for a single moment.... [continued tomorrow]
____________________
Compiled and Edited by Rev. F. X. Lasance
Author of "My Prayerbook," etc.
1937, Benziger Brothers
Printers to the Holy Apostolic See
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