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February 2, 2012
Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
Link to Readings
Today’s Feast of the Presentation gives a final reflection on the Holy Child before the Christmas Season finally gives way to Lent. The Gospel recounts how Mary and Joseph presented the infant Jesus to the Lord at the temple, offering a ritual sacrifice. The Son of God came to live among us as a true Son of Man. He would one day become the sacrifice that would save us from sin and death. “Since the children share in blood and flesh, Jesus likewise shared in them…that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest before God to expiate the sins of the people” (Hebrews 2:14, 17).
God loves us so much that even the death of His Son was not too much for Him. Jesus came to live among us to share the hope of salvation and the gift of faith through His unconditional love. Let us live as true followers of Christ by welcoming others to our holy faith. Everyday our prayers, words and deeds can assist those awaiting the Good News of the Lord’s boundless love.
Suggested missionary action: Anna and Simeon were ordinary people who proclaimed the extraordinary message of Jesus as Messiah. Today offer prayerful thanks to be called, by Baptism, to be a “mission voice” yourself, speaking of your faith in Jesus by your words and the very example of your life.
February 5, 2012
Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
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Two thousand years after Jesus walked the earth, we meet our Savior through people of faith. Many of us were “born into” our Catholic beliefs, and our parents were our first teachers. Our mothers and fathers, and perhaps grandparents, taught us our first prayers and took us to church. Later, teachers, priests and other religious people continued our education.
Although we may forget about the need to spread the faith directly by reaching out to those who have no knowledge of our God’s all-encompassing love, St. Paul, the Apostles and missionaries throughout the ages never did. “I have made myself a slave to all so as to win over as many as possible.… All this I do for the sake of the gospel, so that I too may have a share in it” (1 Corinthians 9:19, 23). While we look after the spiritual needs of the young people in our lives, let us also serve those people who need to hear the Good News in our neighborhoods and around the world.
Suggested missionary action: Let us determine to serve God’s people by encouraging the preaching of the Gospel to those near and far. It is up to each of us to help the Missions through prayer and sacrifice.
January 6, 2012
Memorial of St. Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs
Link to Readings
Today’s Gospel addresses the blessed gift of healing that Jesus shared as He journeyed to reveal the Good News to all who would listen. “Jesus and His disciples came to land at Gennesaret.… As they were leaving the boat, people immediately recognized Him” (Mark 6:53-54). Clearly word of Jesus and His miracles had spread. Many wanted Christ to cure their loved ones who were sick, yet our Lord wanted far more. Jesus Christ came to offer each person eternal life. His very life on earth, as well as His message, were meant for our salvation.
Today’s feast of St. Paul Miki and his companions in Japan shows how far Christ’s message had spread since His death and resurrection. In 1597, authorities feared the growing influence of Christianity and condemned believers to death. So 26 faithful lay people, religious and priests were crucified in Nagasaki on what is now called the Holy Mountain. From his cross, St. Paul Miki thanked God for his faith and forgave his executioners.
Suggested missionary action: Let us listen to St. Paul Miki’s last request: “Ask Christ to help you become happy.” Pray for your own true happiness and the happiness of all people experienced through the knowledge of Jesus’ love and peace.
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