July 25, 2012 – Matthew 20-20-28 – Treasure in clay jars

St. James the Apostle

"But we have this treasure in clay jars so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be made visible in our bodies. For while we live, we are always being given up to death for Jesus sake, so that the life of Jesus may be made visible in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us; but life in you."

Today, we celebrate the Feast of St. James the apostle who was the first martyred apostle. Father Michael Traher stressed that the Lord works best in our weakness and frailties. Like St. James, let us endure our sufferings for God's glory.

July 24, 2012 – Matthew 12:46-48-50 - The True Kindred of Jesus

"But to the one who had told him this, Jesus replied, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” And pointing to his disciple, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother, sister, and mother."

Father Glenn McDonald relayed that the gospel’s theme is about the role of mothers and brothers. The gospel is telling us how to be a good mother or brother of Christ as members of the church and followers of God’s will. We are invited to reflect on the life of Mary as mother of Christ and know our obligations as a mother of our children in terms of love, forgiveness, trust, and openness.

July 23, 2012 – Matthew 12:38-42 – The sign of Jonah

"Then some of the scribes and Pharisees said to him, Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you. But he answered them, “An evil and adulterous generation ask for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. For just as Jonah was for three days and three nights in the belly of the sea monster so for three days and three nights the son of man will be in the heart of the earth. The people of Nineveh will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, because they repented at the proclamation of Jonah, and see something greater then Jonah is here."

Father Michael Busch explained that believing Jesus is not easy as we seek his power and ask for signs that he is God. We sometimes want answers or proof that he is in control. It is good to continue asking Jesus for signs when we are in trouble, when disaster strike or face with crisis. Put our faith in God and not give in to fear which drives us to question His promise. Let us not suffer in silence. The sure way to get God’s attention is to do justice, love, kindness, faith and trust in Him. God has not abandoned us. Do not be like Pharisees or scribes asking for signs. There is no need for signs for the one true revelation. Remember Jesus and ask for strength or food to satisfy our hunger and thirst. Jesus is the bread of life; trust that his promise of redemption will come true.

July 21, 2012 – Matthew 12:14-21 – God’s Chosen Servant

"This was to fulfill what had been spoken through the prophet Isaiah: “Here is my servant, whom I have chosen, my beloved, with home, my soul is well pleased. I will put my Spirit upon him and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles… He will not break a bruised reed or quench a smoldering with wick until he brings justice to victory and in his name, the Gentiles will hope."

Father Patrick Fitzpatrick said that the persons who gave Jesus the most trouble are the Romans, Pilate, religious leaders like Sadducees, High Priest and temple people. Jesus was homeless, had no permanent place to stay, and depended on welcome and hospitality of the people. He was gentle, different, and unique and annoyed by the priests because of his motto “people first before rules and regulations”. Compassion and not power over others is His trademark.  God made Jesus as his chosen servant.