Family of God

 

"For whoever does 

the will of my 

Father in heaven 

is my brother and sister 

and mother." 

(Matthew 12:50)

Jesus' statement is inclusive, welcoming all who choose to follow God's will, regardless of their background or status. It shows that anyone can be part of God's family if they live according to His will. He highlights that those who follow God's will are part of His spiritual family. This means that our connection to God and each other is based on our faith and obedience, not just our blood relations.

The verse underscores the importance of doing God's will. It's a call to live according to God's teachings and commandments, which brings us closer to Him and makes us part of His family. Being part of Jesus' family requires a commitment to live by God's principles. It's not just about believing but also about acting on that belief through our daily lives.

Reflecting on this verse can inspire us to deepen our relationship with God and strive to live in a way that aligns with His will. 

In the heart of heaven's light, 

Where love and faith unite, 

A family bound by spirit's call, 

Not by blood, but by the will of all.

For those who heed the Father's voice, 

In His grace, they find their choice, 

To walk the path of truth and grace, 

And in His love, they find their place.

Brothers, sisters, mothers too, 

In God's embrace, they are made new, 

A bond that time cannot sever, 

United in His will forever.

So let us strive to do His will, 

With hearts sincere and spirits still, 

For in His eyes, we are one, 

A family of faith, under the Son.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with humble hearts, seeking to do the will of our Father in heaven. We thank You for the gift of being part of Your spiritual family, bound not by blood, but by faith and obedience to Your word.

Help us to live each day in accordance with Your will, to love and serve others as You have taught us. May we always strive to follow Your example, showing compassion, kindness, and forgiveness to all.

Grant us the strength and courage to face the challenges of life, knowing that we are never alone, for You are with us always. Let our actions reflect Your love and grace, so that we may be true brothers and sisters in Your holy family.

We ask this in Your precious name, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Pericope:

IV: Opposition from Israel

THE TRUE FAMILY OF JESUS

Matthew 12:46-50

Gospel Acclamation

Blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it.

Gospel | Matthew 12:46-50

46 While Jesus was speaking to the crowds, his mother and his brothers appeared outside, wishing to speak with him. 47 Someone told him, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, asking to speak with you.” 48 But he said in reply to the one who told him, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” 49 And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. 50 For whoever does the will of my heavenly Father is my brother, and sister, and mother.” 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Salvation's Embrace

 

"Jesus said to him, 

'Today salvation 

has come to this house, 

because this man, too, 

is a son of Abraham.'" 

(Luke 19:9)

Salvation is available to everyone, regardless of their past. No one is beyond the reach of God's grace. By calling Zacchaeus a "son of Abraham," Jesus affirms his inclusion in God's family. This reminds us that faith, not heritage or social status, determines our place in God's kingdom.

Zacchaeus' encounter with Jesus led to a significant change in his life. This teaches us that a genuine encounter with Jesus can transform our lives and lead us to repentance and renewal. The word "today" highlights the immediate impact of Zacchaeus' faith and repentance. It encourages us to respond to Jesus' call without delay, knowing that His grace is available to us right now.

Reflecting on this verse can inspire us to embrace the transformative power of Jesus' love and to recognize the inclusivity of God's grace. 

Today salvation graced this home, 

A sinner's heart no longer roams. 

For in the eyes of Christ, we see, 

A son of Abraham set free.

From heights of trees to depths of grace, 

Zacchaeus found his rightful place. 

With faith renewed and heart contrite, 

He welcomed Jesus, love's pure light.

No past too dark, no soul too lost, 

For Jesus paid the ultimate cost. 

In every heart, His love can bloom, 

Dispelling shadows, lifting gloom.

Today, let every heart rejoice, 

In Jesus' name, lift up your voice. 

For salvation's gift is here to stay, 

In every home, in every way.

Lord Jesus,

We thank You for the gift of salvation that You bring into our lives. Just as You brought salvation to Zacchaeus' house, we ask that You come into our hearts and homes, transforming us with Your grace and love.

Help us to recognize that we are all children of Abraham, included in Your family through faith. May we embrace this truth and live in a way that reflects Your love and acceptance of all people.

Grant us the courage to seek You earnestly, just as Zacchaeus did, and to welcome You with joy and repentance. Let Your presence in our lives bring about a profound transformation, leading us to live righteously and generously.

We praise You for Your endless mercy and the salvation You offer to everyone. May we always remember that Your grace is available to us today and every day.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

ZACCHAEUS THE TAX COLLECTOR

Luke 19:1-10

Gospel Acclamation

God loved us, and sent his Son as expiation for our sins.

Gospel | Luke 19:1-10

1 At that time Jesus came to Jericho and intended to pass through the town. 2 Now a man there named Zacchaeus, who was a chief tax collector and also a wealthy man, 3 was seeking to see who Jesus was; but he could not see him because of the crowd, for he was short in stature. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree in order to see Jesus, who was about to pass that way. 5 When he reached the place, Jesus looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house.” 6 And he came down quickly and received him with joy. 7 When they all saw this, they began to grumble, saying, “He has gone to stay at the house of a sinner.” 8 But Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, “Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over.” 9 And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost.”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Eyes of Faith

 

"What do you want 

me to do for you?" 

"Lord, I want to see," 

he replied. 

Jesus said to him, 

"Receive your sight; 

your faith 

has healed you." 

(Luke 18:41-42)

Jesus' willingness to stop and address the blind man's need shows His compassion and care for individuals. It reminds us that Jesus is attentive to our needs and is willing to help us when we call out to Him.

Jesus asked the man what he wanted, even though it seemed obvious. This teaches us the importance of being clear and specific in our prayers and requests to God.

Jesus' words, "Receive your sight," were powerful and brought about immediate healing. This highlights the power of Jesus' words and the importance of speaking words of faith and encouragement.

The blind man's faith played a crucial role in his healing. This teaches us the importance of having faith in Jesus and trusting in His power to heal and transform our lives.

Reflecting on this passage can inspire us to deepen our faith, trust in Jesus' compassion, and be clear in our prayers. 

In the shadows, where light is scarce, 

A voice cries out, a humble prayer. 

"Lord, I want to see," he pleads, 

With faith so strong, it plants the seeds.

Through the crowd, his voice does rise, 

Reaching Jesus, who hears his cries. 

"What do you want?" the Savior asks, 

"Receive your sight," the healing task.

Faith unwavering, pure and bright, 

Transforms the darkness into light. 

A miracle, a sight restored, 

By the power of faith in the Lord.

In every heart, let faith reside, 

Guiding us through life's rough tide. 

For those who trust and truly believe, 

Will find the grace they seek, receive.

Lord Jesus,

In the midst of our struggles and darkness, we come to You with faith, just as the blind man did. We ask for Your healing touch in our lives, knowing that Your compassion and power are boundless.

Grant us the clarity to see Your path and the strength to follow it. Help us to trust in Your words and promises, even when the world around us seems uncertain.

May our faith be unwavering, guiding us through life's challenges. Let Your light shine upon us, restoring our sight and filling our hearts with hope and love.

We thank You for Your endless mercy and grace. May we always seek You with a heart full of faith, knowing that You are our healer and guide.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE HEALING OF THE BLIND BEGGAR

Luke 18:35-43

Gospel Acclamation

I am the light of the world, says the Lord; whoever follows me will have the light of life.

Gospel | Luke 18:35-43

35 As Jesus approached Jericho a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging, 36 and hearing a crowd going by, he inquired what was happening. 37 They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” 38 He shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!” 39 The people walking in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent, but he kept calling out all the more, “Son of David, have pity on me!” 40 Then Jesus stopped and ordered that he be brought to him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, 41 “What do you want me to do for you?” He replied, “Lord, please let me see.” 42 Jesus told him, “Have sight; your faith has saved you.” 43 He immediately received his sight and followed him, giving glory to God. When they saw this, all the people gave praise to God.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Eternal Words

 

"Heaven and earth 

will pass away, 

but my words 

will never pass away." 

(Mark 13:31)

By emphasizing the eternal over the temporal, Jesus encourages us to prioritize spiritual matters over worldly concerns. It reminds us to focus on what truly lasts. Unlike the transient nature of the world, His words remain constant and unchanging.

The promise that Jesus' words will never pass away provides hope and assurance. It reminds us that, despite the uncertainties of life, we can rely on His promises. 

This verse reassures us of the reliability and permanence of the Scriptures. It encourages us to trust in the Bible as a source of eternal truth and guidance. Reflecting on this verse can inspire us to deepen our faith and trust in the enduring truth of Jesus' teachings. 

Heaven and earth, in time, will fade, 

Mountains crumble, oceans wade. 

Yet through the ages, steadfast and true, 

Your words remain, ever new.

In the silence of the night, 

When stars dim their ancient light, 

Your promises, like a guiding star, 

Shine within, near and far.

Though the world may shift and sway, 

Your truth endures, come what may. 

In every heart, Your voice will stay, 

For Your words will never pass away.

Lord Jesus,

In a world where everything is fleeting, we find solace in Your eternal words. Heaven and earth may pass away, but Your promises remain steadfast and true. Help us to anchor our lives in Your teachings, knowing that they will never fade.

Grant us the wisdom to prioritize Your eternal truth over the transient concerns of this world. May Your words guide our hearts and minds, providing us with hope and assurance in times of uncertainty.

We thank You for the unchanging nature of Your love and truth. Let Your words be a light unto our path, leading us closer to You each day.

Amen.

Pericope

IV: The Full Revelation of the Mystery

THE COMING OF THE SON OF MAN

Mark 13:24-32

Gospel Acclamation

Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to stand before the Son of Man.

Gospel | Mark 13:24-32

24 Jesus said to his disciples: “In those days after that tribulation the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, 25 and the stars will be falling from the sky, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. 26 “And then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in the clouds’ with great power and glory, 27 and then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the end of the earth to the end of the sky. 28 “Learn a lesson from the fig tree. When its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 In the same way, when you see these things happening, know that he is near, at the gates. 30 Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 32 “But of that day or hour, no one knows,neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father."

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Persistent in Prayer

 

"And the Lord said, 'Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly." 

(Luke 18:6-7)

Jesus encourages us to be persistent in our prayers. Just as the widow in the parable kept pleading with the unjust judge, we should continually bring our requests to God, trusting that He hears us. Let us to maintain our faith and trust in God, even when answers to our prayers seem delayed. We are reminded that God's timing is perfect, and He will act swiftly when the time is right.

Unlike the unjust judge, God is just and compassionate. He will bring about justice for His chosen ones who cry out to Him. This reassures us of God's fairness and His commitment to righting wrongs. 

These lessons inspire us to be persistent in prayer, trust in God's justice, maintain our faith, and reflect on the strength of our belief. 

In the quiet of the night, 

When shadows fall and stars are bright, 

A whispered prayer, a heartfelt plea, 

Reaches up to eternity.

Through trials faced and burdens borne, 

In moments dark and hearts forlorn, 

We lift our voices, strong and clear, 

Persistent in our faith, sincere.

For in the silence, God does hear, 

Each whispered word, each fallen tear. 

With steadfast heart, we seek His face, 

And find our strength in His embrace.

So let us pray, both day and night, 

With faith unwavering, hearts alight. 

For in persistence, we shall find, 

God's love and peace, both pure and kind.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with hearts full of faith and determination. Teach us to be persistent in our prayers, never losing hope or giving up, even when the answers seem delayed. Help us to trust in Your perfect timing and to believe that You hear every word we speak.

Grant us the strength to continue seeking Your guidance and the patience to wait for Your will to unfold in our lives. May our prayers be a reflection of our unwavering faith in Your love and power. Remind us that through persistence, we grow closer to You and deepen our relationship with You.

Lord, fill our hearts with the assurance that You are always with us, listening to our cries and understanding our needs. Help us to remain steadfast in our devotion, knowing that You will bring about justice and peace in Your perfect way.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE PARABLE OF THE PERSISTENT WIDOW

Luke 18:1-8

Gospel Acclamation

God has called us through the Gospel, to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Gospel | Luke 18:1-8

1 Jesus told his disciples a parable about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary. He said, 2 “There was a judge in a certain town who neither feared God nor respected any human being. 3 And a widow in that town used to come to him and say, ‘Render a just decision for me against my adversary.’ 4 For a long time the judge was unwilling, but eventually he thought, ‘While it is true that I neither fear God nor respect any human being, 5 because this widow keeps bothering me I shall deliver a just decision for her lest she finally come and strike me.’” 6 The Lord said, “Pay attention to what the dishonest judge says. 7 Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night? Will he be slow to answer them? 8 I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily. But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Preserve Life

 

 "Whoever seeks 

to preserve his life 

will lose it, 

but whoever loses it 

will save it." 

(Luke 17:33)

Jesus teaches us the importance of self-sacrifice. It reminds us that clinging too tightly to our own lives and desires can lead to spiritual loss, while being willing to give up our lives for the sake of Christ leads to true life. It emphasizes the need to prioritize spiritual values over material possessions and earthly concerns. True life is found in following Jesus and living according to His teachings.

Jesus encourages us to trust in God's plan for our lives. By surrendering our own plans and desires, we open ourselves to the greater purpose and fulfillment that God has in store for us. He calls us to adopt an eternal perspective, recognizing that our earthly life is temporary and that our ultimate goal is eternal life with God. This perspective helps us to make choices that align with God's will and purpose.

These lessons inspire us to practice self-sacrifice, prioritize spiritual values, trust in God's plan, and maintain an eternal perspective. 

In the quest to hold on tight, 

We often lose the guiding light. 

For in the grip of selfish gain, 

We find ourselves in deeper pain.

But those who dare to let life go, 

Discover truths they long to know. 

In sacrifice, they find their way, 

To brighter dawns and clearer day.

For life preserved is life that's shared, 

In love and faith, in hearts that cared. 

So lose your life, and you will see, 

The path to true eternity.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with humble hearts, acknowledging the profound truth in Your words: "Whoever tries to keep their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life will preserve it." Teach us to let go of our earthly attachments and desires, so that we may fully embrace the life You offer.

Grant us the courage to surrender our own plans and ambitions, trusting in Your perfect will for our lives. Help us to live selflessly, putting the needs of others before our own, and to find true fulfillment in serving You.

May we always remember that true life is found in following You, and that by losing our lives for Your sake, we gain the eternal life You promise. Strengthen our faith and guide us on the path of righteousness, so that we may live in a way that honors You.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE DAY OF THE SON OF MAN

Luke 17:22-37

Gospel Acclamation

Stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.

Gospel | Luke 17:26–37

26 Jesus said to his disciples: “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be in the days of the Son of Man; 27 they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage up to the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. 28 Similarly, as it was in the days of Lot: they were eating, drinking, buying, selling, planting, building; 29 on the day when Lot left Sodom, fire and brimstone rained from the sky to destroy them all. 30 So it will be on the day the Son of Man is revealed. 31 On that day, someone who is on the housetop and whose belongings are in the house must not go down to get them, and likewise a person in the field must not return to what was left behind. 32 Remember the wife of Lot. 33 Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses it will save it. 34 I tell you, on that night there will be two people in one bed; one will be taken, the other left. 35 And there will be two women grinding meal together; one will be taken, the other left.” 36-37 They said to him in reply, “Where, Lord?” He said to them, “Where the body is, there also the vultures will gather.”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Faith Made You Well

 

"Has no one returned 

to give praise to God 

except this foreigner?" 

Then he said to him, 

"Rise and go; 

your faith has 

made you well." 

(Luke 17:18-19)

Jesus emphasizes that the man's faith has made him well. This teaches us that faith plays a crucial role in our spiritual and physical healing.

Only one of the ten lepers who were healed returned to thank Jesus, showing us the value of expressing our gratitude for the blessings we receive. By returning to give praise to God, the healed man sets an example of how we should respond to God's blessings.

The man who returned to thank Jesus was a foreigner, which underscores the inclusivity of God's grace. It reminds us that God's love and mercy are available to all, regardless of their background or status.

These lessons inspire us to cultivate gratitude, strengthen our faith, embrace inclusivity, and always recognize God's work in our lives. 

In a moment of divine embrace, 

A healing touch, a gift of grace. 

Ten were healed, but one returned, 

With grateful heart, his spirit burned.

"Rise and go," the Savior said, 

"Your faith has made you well," He led. 

A simple trust, a humble plea, 

Brought forth a miracle, set him free.

In faith, we find our strength and peace, 

A bond with God that will not cease. 

For in His love, we are made whole, 

A healing balm for every soul.

So let us rise, with faith anew, 

And walk the path that He leads us through. 

For in His words, we find our way, 

Our faith in Him, our hope each day.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude and faith. We thank You for Your healing power and the miracles You perform in our lives. Just as You healed the leper and told him to rise and go, we ask for Your healing touch in our lives today.

Strengthen our faith, Lord, so that we may trust in Your promises and believe in Your power to make us whole. Help us to rise above our challenges and walk in the path You have set before us. May our faith be a testament to Your grace and mercy.

Teach us to always return to You with thanksgiving, recognizing Your hand in every blessing we receive. Let our lives be a reflection of Your love and a witness to the world of Your healing power.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE CLEANSING OF TEN LEPERS

Luke 17:11-19

Gospel Acclamation

In all circumstances, give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.

Gospel | Luke 17:11-19

11 As Jesus continued his journey to Jerusalem, he traveled through Samaria and Galilee. 12 As he was entering a village, ten lepers met him. They stood at a distance from him 13 and raised their voice, saying, “Jesus, Master! Have pity on us!” 14 And when he saw them, he said, “Go show yourselves to the priests.” As they were going they were cleansed. 15 And one of them, realizing he had been healed, returned, glorifying God in a loud voice; 16 and he fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him. He was a Samaritan. 17 Jesus said in reply, “Ten were cleansed, were they not? Where are the other nine? 18 Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?” 19 Then he said to him, “Stand up and go; your faith has saved you.”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot