Tuesday 17 December 2024 - Daily Mass Reading

17 December  

Liturgical Colour: Violet. Year: C(I). 

Readings at Mass 

 

____ 

 

First reading 

Genesis 49:2,8-10 

Until he comes, the sceptre will not pass from Judah 

 

Jacob called his sons and said: 

 

‘Gather round, sons of Jacob, and listen; 

listen to Israel your father. 

Judah, your brothers shall praise you: 

you grip your enemies by the neck, 

your father’s sons shall do you homage, 

Judah is a lion cub, 

you climb back, my son, from your kill; 

like a lion he crouches and lies down, 

or a lioness: who dare rouse him? 

The sceptre shall not pass from Judah, 

nor the mace from between his feet, 

until he come to whom it belongs, 

to whom the peoples shall render obedience.’ 

 

 

____ 

 

Responsorial Psalm 

Psalm 71(72):1-4,7-8,17 

 

In his days justice shall flourish, and peace till the moon fails. 

 

O God, give your judgement to the king, 

    to a king’s son your justice, 

that he may judge your people in justice 

    and your poor in right judgement. 

 

In his days justice shall flourish, and peace till the moon fails. 

 

May the mountains bring forth peace for the people 

    and the hills, justice. 

May he defend the poor of the people 

    and save the children of the needy. 

 

In his days justice shall flourish, and peace till the moon fails. 

 

In his days justice shall flourish 

    and peace till the moon fails. 

He shall rule from sea to sea, 

    from the Great River to earth’s bounds. 

 

In his days justice shall flourish, and peace till the moon fails. 

 

May his name be blessed for ever 

    and endure like the sun. 

Every tribe shall be blessed in him, 

    all nations bless his name. 

 

In his days justice shall flourish, and peace till the moon fails. 

 

 

____ 

 

Gospel Acclamation 

 

Alleluia, alleluia! 

Wisdom of the Most High, 

ordering all things with strength and gentleness, 

come and teach us the way of truth. 

Alleluia! 

 

 

____ 

 

Gospel 

Matthew 1:1-17 

The ancestry of Jesus Christ, the son of David 

 

A genealogy of Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham: 

 

Abraham was the father of Isaac, 

Isaac the father of Jacob, 

Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, 

Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah, Tamar being their mother, 

Perez was the father of Hezron, 

Hezron the father of Ram, 

Ram was the father of Amminadab, 

Amminadab the father of Nahshon, 

Nahshon the father of Salmon, 

Salmon was the father of Boaz, Rahab being his mother, 

Boaz was the father of Obed, Ruth being his mother, 

Obed was the father of Jesse; 

and Jesse was the father of King David. 

David was the father of Solomon, whose mother had been Uriah’s wife, 

Solomon was the father of Rehoboam, 

Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asa, 

Asa was the father of Jehoshaphat, 

Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, 

Joram the father of Azariah, 

Azariah was the father of Jotham, 

Jotham the father of Ahaz, 

Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, 

Hezekiah was the father of Manasseh, 

Manasseh the father of Amon, 

Amon the father of Josiah; 

and Josiah was the father of Jechoniah and his brothers. 

Then the deportation to Babylon took place. 

After the deportation to Babylon: 

Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, 

Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, 

Zerubbabel was the father of Abiud, 

Abiud the father of Eliakim, 

Eliakim the father of Azor, 

Azor was the father of Zadok, 

Zadok the father of Achim, 

Achim the father of Eliud, 

Eliud was the father of Eleazar, 

Eleazar the father of Matthan, 

Matthan the father of Jacob; 

and Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary; 

of her was born Jesus who is called Christ. 

 

The sum of generations is therefore: fourteen from Abraham to David; fourteen from David to the Babylonian deportation; and fourteen from the Babylonian deportation to Christ.

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Sunday 15 December 2024 - Daily Mass Reading

3rd Sunday of Advent   

Liturgical Colour: Rose or Violet. Year: C(I). 

Readings at Mass 

 

____ 

 

First reading 

Zephaniah 3:14-18 

The Lord, the king of Israel, is in your midst 

 

 

Shout for joy, daughter of Zion, 

Israel, shout aloud! 

Rejoice, exult with all your heart, 

daughter of Jerusalem! 

The Lord has repealed your sentence; 

he has driven your enemies away. 

The Lord, the king of Israel, is in your midst; 

you have no more evil to fear. 

 

When that day comes, word will come to Jerusalem: 

Zion, have no fear, 

do not let your hands fall limp. 

The Lord your God is in your midst, 

a victorious warrior. 

He will exult with joy over you, 

he will renew you by his love; 

he will dance with shouts of joy for you 

as on a day of festival. 

 

 

____ 

 

Responsorial Psalm 

Isaiah 12 

The rejoicing of a redeemed people 

 

Sing and shout for joy for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel. 

 

Truly, God is my salvation, 

    I trust, I shall not fear. 

For the Lord is my strength, my song, 

    he became my saviour. 

With joy you will draw water 

    from the wells of salvation. 

 

Sing and shout for joy for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel. 

 

Give thanks to the Lord, give praise to his name! 

    Make his mighty deeds known to the peoples! 

    Declare the greatness of his name. 

 

Sing and shout for joy for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel. 

 

Sing a psalm to the Lord 

    for he has done glorious deeds; 

    make them known to all the earth! 

People of Zion, sing and shout for joy, 

    for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel. 

 

Sing and shout for joy for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel. 

 

 

____ 

 

Second reading 

Philippians 4:4-7 

The Lord is very near 

 

I want you to be happy, always happy in the Lord; I repeat, what I want is your happiness. Let your tolerance be evident to everyone: the Lord is very near. 

    There is no need to worry; but if there is anything you need, pray for it, asking God for it with prayer and thanksgiving, and that peace of God, which is so much greater than we can understand, will guard your hearts and your thoughts, in Christ Jesus. 

 

 

____ 

 

Gospel Acclamation 

Is61:1(Lk4:18) 

 

Alleluia, alleluia! 

The spirit of the Lord has been given to me. 

He has sent me to bring the good news to the poor. 

Alleluia! 

 

 

____ 

 

Gospel 

Luke 3:10-18 

'Someone is coming who will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire' 

 

When all the people asked John, ‘What must we do?’ he answered, ‘If anyone has two tunics he must share with the man who has none, and the one with something to eat must do the same.’ There were tax collectors too who came for baptism, and these said to him, ‘Master, what must we do?’ He said to them, ‘Exact no more than your rate.’ Some soldiers asked him in their turn, ‘What about us? What must we do?’ He said to them, ‘No intimidation! No extortion! Be content with your pay!’ 

    A feeling of expectancy had grown among the people, who were beginning to think that John might be the Christ, so John declared before them all, ‘I baptise you with water, but someone is coming, someone who is more powerful than I am, and I am not fit to undo the strap of his sandals; he will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing-fan is in his hand to clear his threshing-floor and to gather the wheat into his barn; but the chaff he will burn in a fire that will never go out.’ As well as this, there were many other things he said to exhort the people and to announce the Good News to them. 

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Thursday 12 December 2024 - Daily Mass Reading

Thursday of the 2nd week of Advent  

 or Our Lady of Guadalupe  

Liturgical Colour: Violet. Year: C(I)

Readings at Mass 

 

____ 

 

First reading 

Isaiah 41:13-20 

I, the Holy One of Israel, am your redeemer 

 

 

I, the Lord, your God, 

I am holding you by the right hand; 

I tell you, ‘Do not be afraid, 

I will help you.’ 

 

Do not be afraid, Jacob, poor worm, 

Israel, puny mite. 

I will help you – it is the Lord who speaks – 

the Holy One of Israel is your redeemer. 

 

See, I turn you into a threshing-sled, 

new, with doubled teeth; 

you shall thresh and crush the mountains, 

and turn the hills to chaff. 

 

You shall winnow them and the wind will blow them away, 

the gale will scatter them. 

But you yourself will rejoice in the Lord, 

and glory in the Holy One of Israel. 

 

The poor and needy ask for water, and there is none, 

their tongue is parched with thirst. 

I, the Lord, will answer them, 

I, the God of Israel, will not abandon them. 

 

I will make rivers well up on barren heights, 

and fountains in the midst of valleys; 

turn the wilderness into a lake, 

and dry ground into waterspring. 

 

In the wilderness I will put cedar trees, 

acacias, myrtles, olives. 

In the desert I will plant juniper, 

plane tree and cypress side by side; 

 

so that men may see and know, 

may all observe and understand 

that the hand of the Lord has done this, 

that the Holy One of Israel has created it. 

 

 

____ 

 

Responsorial Psalm 

Psalm 144(145):1,9-13a 

 

The Lord is kind and full of compassion, slow to anger, abounding in love. 

 

I will give you glory, O God my king, 

    I will bless your name for ever. 

How good is the Lord to all, 

    compassionate to all his creatures. 

 

The Lord is kind and full of compassion, slow to anger, abounding in love. 

 

All your creatures shall thank you, O Lord, 

    and your friends shall repeat their blessing. 

They shall speak of the glory of your reign 

    and declare your might, O God, 

to make known to men your mighty deeds 

    and the glorious splendour of your reign. 

 

The Lord is kind and full of compassion, slow to anger, abounding in love. 

 

Yours is an everlasting kingdom; 

    your rule lasts from age to age. 

 

The Lord is kind and full of compassion, slow to anger, abounding in love. 

 

 

____ 

 

Gospel Acclamation 

 

Alleluia, alleluia! 

Come, Lord, with your peace 

that we may rejoice in your presence with sincerity of heart. 

Alleluia! 

 

 

Or: 

cf.Is45:8 

 

Alleluia, alleluia! 

Send victory like a dew, you heavens, 

    and let the clouds rain it down. 

Let the earth open and bring forth the saviour. 

Alleluia! 

 

 

____ 

 

Gospel 

Matthew 11:11-15 

A greater than John the Baptist has never been seen 

 

Jesus spoke to the crowds: ‘I tell you solemnly, of all the children born of women, a greater than John the Baptist has never been seen; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he is. Since John the Baptist came, up to this present time, the kingdom of heaven has been subjected to violence and the violent are taking it by storm. Because it was towards John that all the prophecies of the prophets and of the Law were leading; and he, if you will believe me, is the Elijah who was to return. If anyone has ears to hear, let him listen!’ 

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Wednesday 11 December 2024 - Daily Mass Reading

Wednesday of the 2nd week of Advent  
 or Saint Damasus I, Pope  
Liturgical Colour: Violet. Year: C(I) 
Readings at Mass 
 
____ 
 
First reading 
Isaiah 40:25-31 
The Lord strengthens the powerless 
 
 
‘To whom could you liken me 
and who could be my equal?’ says the Holy One. 
Lift your eyes and look. 
Who made these stars 
if not he who drills them like an army, 
calling each one by name? 
So mighty is his power, so great his strength, 
that not one fails to answer. 
 
How can you say, Jacob, 
how can you insist, Israel, 
‘My destiny is hidden from the Lord, 
my rights are ignored by my God’? 
Did you not know? 
Had you not heard? 
 
The Lord is an everlasting God, 
he created the boundaries of the earth. 
He does not grow tired or weary, 
his understanding is beyond fathoming. 
He gives strength to the wearied, 
he strengthens the powerless. 
Young men may grow tired and weary, 
youths may stumble, 
but those who hope in the Lord renew their strength, 
they put out wings like eagles. 
They run and do not grow weary, 
walk and never tire. 
 
 
____ 
 
Responsorial Psalm 
Psalm 102(103):1-4,8,10 
 
My soul, give thanks to the Lord. 
 
My soul, give thanks to the Lord 
    all my being, bless his holy name. 
My soul, give thanks to the Lord 
    and never forget all his blessings. 
 
My soul, give thanks to the Lord. 
 
It is he who forgives all your guilt, 
    who heals every one of your ills, 
who redeems your life from the grave, 
    who crowns you with love and compassion. 
 
My soul, give thanks to the Lord. 
 
The Lord is compassion and love, 
    slow to anger and rich in mercy. 
He does not treat us according to our sins 
    nor repay us according to our faults. 
 
My soul, give thanks to the Lord. 
 
 
____ 
 
Gospel Acclamation 
 
Alleluia, alleluia! 
Behold, our Lord will come with power 
and will enlighten the eyes of his servants. 
Alleluia! 
 
 
Or: 
 
Alleluia, alleluia! 
Look, the Lord will come to save his people. 
Blessed those who are ready to meet him. 
Alleluia! 
 
 
____ 
 
Gospel 
Matthew 11:28-30 
My yoke is easy and my burden light 
 
Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all you who labour and are overburdened, and I will give you rest. Shoulder my yoke and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Yes, my yoke is easy and my burden light.’ 

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Novena to St. Lucy

Day 1 – December 4

Reflection: St. Lucy, you gave your life for the love of Jesus. May we follow your example and be willing to sacrifice everything for Christ. Pray for us to remain faithful to God in all circumstances.

O St. Lucy, your beautiful name signifies light. By the light of faith that God bestowed upon you, increase and preserve His light in my soul so that I may avoid evil, be zealous in the practice of virtue, and abhor nothing as much as the blindness and darkness of evil and sin.

Obtain for me, by your intercession with God, perfect vision for my bodily eyes and the grace to use them for God’s greater honor and glory and the salvation of souls. St. Lucy, virgin and martyr, hear my prayers and obtain my petitions.

(State your intentions here…)

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Day 2 – December 5

Reflection: O courageous St. Lucy, you chose suffering over renouncing your faith. Obtain for us the grace to remain strong when we face challenges to our faith.

O St. Lucy, your beautiful name signifies light. By the light of faith that God bestowed upon you, increase and preserve His light in my soul so that I may avoid evil, be zealous in the practice of virtue, and abhor nothing as much as the blindness and darkness of evil and sin.

Obtain for me, by your intercession with God, perfect vision for my bodily eyes and the grace to use them for God’s greater honor and glory and the salvation of souls. St. Lucy, virgin and martyr, hear my prayers and obtain my petitions.

(State your intentions here…)

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Day 3 – December 6

Reflection: St. Lucy, your unwavering faith inspired others to turn to Christ. Help us to live our lives as witnesses to the Gospel and to draw others to God through our example.

O St. Lucy, your beautiful name signifies light. By the light of faith that God bestowed upon you, increase and preserve His light in my soul so that I may avoid evil, be zealous in the practice of virtue, and abhor nothing as much as the blindness and darkness of evil and sin.

Obtain for me, by your intercession with God, perfect vision for my bodily eyes and the grace to use them for God’s greater honor and glory and the salvation of souls. St. Lucy, virgin and martyr, hear my prayers and obtain my petitions.

(State your intentions here…)

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Day 4 – December 7

Reflection: St. Lucy, you are a patroness of the blind and those with eye ailments. Grant healing to those suffering from physical or spiritual blindness. May they see God’s love and grace in their lives.

O St. Lucy, your beautiful name signifies light. By the light of faith that God bestowed upon you, increase and preserve His light in my soul so that I may avoid evil, be zealous in the practice of virtue, and abhor nothing as much as the blindness and darkness of evil and sin.

Obtain for me, by your intercession with God, perfect vision for my bodily eyes and the grace to use them for God’s greater honor and glory and the salvation of souls. St. Lucy, virgin and martyr, hear my prayers and obtain my petitions.

(State your intentions here…)

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Day 5 – December 8

Reflection: O holy St. Lucy, you consecrated your virginity to Christ. Help us to live with purity of heart and to love God above all else.

O St. Lucy, your beautiful name signifies light. By the light of faith that God bestowed upon you, increase and preserve His light in my soul so that I may avoid evil, be zealous in the practice of virtue, and abhor nothing as much as the blindness and darkness of evil and sin.

Obtain for me, by your intercession with God, perfect vision for my bodily eyes and the grace to use them for God’s greater honor and glory and the salvation of souls. St. Lucy, virgin and martyr, hear my prayers and obtain my petitions.

(State your intentions here…)

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Day 6 – December 9

Reflection: St. Lucy, you remained steadfast in the midst of persecution. Obtain for us the courage to hold firm to our faith even when it is difficult or unpopular.

O St. Lucy, your beautiful name signifies light. By the light of faith that God bestowed upon you, increase and preserve His light in my soul so that I may avoid evil, be zealous in the practice of virtue, and abhor nothing as much as the blindness and darkness of evil and sin.

Obtain for me, by your intercession with God, perfect vision for my bodily eyes and the grace to use them for God’s greater honor and glory and the salvation of souls. St. Lucy, virgin and martyr, hear my prayers and obtain my petitions.

(State your intentions here…)

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Day 7 – December 10

Reflection: St. Lucy, you bore witness to Christ through your suffering and martyrdom. Inspire us to bear our crosses with patience and to unite them with Christ’s Passion.

O St. Lucy, your beautiful name signifies light. By the light of faith that God bestowed upon you, increase and preserve His light in my soul so that I may avoid evil, be zealous in the practice of virtue, and abhor nothing as much as the blindness and darkness of evil and sin.

Obtain for me, by your intercession with God, perfect vision for my bodily eyes and the grace to use them for God’s greater honor and glory and the salvation of souls. St. Lucy, virgin and martyr, hear my prayers and obtain my petitions.

(State your intentions here…)

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Day 8 – December 11

Reflection: O gentle St. Lucy, you saw the beauty of God’s creation and reflected His light to others. May we always use our gifts for the glory of God and the service of others.

O St. Lucy, your beautiful name signifies light. By the light of faith that God bestowed upon you, increase and preserve His light in my soul so that I may avoid evil, be zealous in the practice of virtue, and abhor nothing as much as the blindness and darkness of evil and sin.

Obtain for me, by your intercession with God, perfect vision for my bodily eyes and the grace to use them for God’s greater honor and glory and the salvation of souls. St. Lucy, virgin and martyr, hear my prayers and obtain my petitions.

(State your intentions here…)

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Day 9 – December 12

Reflection: St. Lucy, your martyrdom gained you eternal joy in heaven. Intercede for us that we may one day share in the glory of eternal life with God.

O St. Lucy, your beautiful name signifies light. By the light of faith that God bestowed upon you, increase and preserve His light in my soul so that I may avoid evil, be zealous in the practice of virtue, and abhor nothing as much as the blindness and darkness of evil and sin.

Obtain for me, by your intercession with God, perfect vision for my bodily eyes and the grace to use them for God’s greater honor and glory and the salvation of souls. St. Lucy, virgin and martyr, hear my prayers and obtain my petitions.

(State your intentions here…)

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Concluding Prayer for All Days

O St. Lucy, as one of the glorious martyrs of the Church, you persevered through great suffering out of love for Jesus. Help us to love Him with all our hearts and to see His light in every situation.

May we, like you, bear witness to the faith, even when it is difficult, and one day rejoice with you in heaven.

Through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

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Novena to Our Lady of Guadalupe

Day 1 - December 3

Prayer:

Holy Mother, you appeared to Saint Juan Diego as a maiden of his own race to reveal that you are the mother of all God's children. Draw close to your heart those who are facing an unexpected pregnancy, so that like you, they will say yes to the new life with which God has blessed them. Amen.

(State your intentions here...)

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Day 2 - December 4

Prayer:

Mary, Mother of divine grace, you appeared to Juan Diego standing on the moon and robed in a royal mantle adorned with stars, showing that you are the Queen of Heaven and Earth, yet far from a haughty or distant Queen. With hands folded in supplication, eyes cast downward in humility and compassion, you did not ask for a temple where you could be honored, but one where you could attend to the “weeping and sorrows of all the people of this land, and of the various peoples who love me.” May all who are sorrowing due to abuse, violence, exploitation, neglect, and all sins against the dignity of life, fly to you, Mother, for comfort and hope. Amen.

(State your intentions here...)

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Day 3 - December 5

Prayer:

Mother of God, your ribboned sash identified you as a pregnant woman, a woman who bore the Christ Child to a world in darkness and who through two millennia has borne the light and love of Christ to a world that has largely rejected Him. May the love of your Son awaken a hymn of thanksgiving and praise in all pregnant mothers, as happened long ago in the home of Elizabeth and Zechariah. Amen.

(State your intentions here...)

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Day 4 - December 6

Prayer:

Holy Mary, you appeared to Juan Diego as a beautiful image to bring faith, hope, and love to those in despair. We ask that you bring your light to those suffering from sickness, depression, and hopelessness. Pray that all who are suffering may find comfort in your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

(State your intentions here...)

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

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Day 5 - December 7

Prayer:

Blessed Mother, you showed great love and care for the poor and humble. We ask that you intercede for the poor, the marginalized, and those who are overlooked in society. May your intercession lead to justice and peace for the oppressed. Amen.

(State your intentions here...)

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Day 6 - December 8

Prayer:

Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Americas, we seek your intercession for our families. Protect them from division, guide them in love and unity, and help them to always place Christ at the center of their lives. Amen.

(State your intentions here...)

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

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Day 7 - December 9

Prayer:

Virgin of Guadalupe, Mother of Mercy, you were the instrument of God's grace to Juan Diego. Through your intercession, bring healing to all who suffer from physical or emotional wounds. May they find comfort in your loving embrace. Amen.

(State your intentions here...)

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Day 8 - December 10

Prayer:

Mother of the Church, we ask you to intercede for all the leaders of the Church, that they may be filled with your grace and wisdom. Help them to lead with humility and love, guiding the faithful to live out the teachings of your Son. Amen.

(State your intentions here...)

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

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Day 9 - December 11

Prayer:

O Most Holy Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe, we humbly ask for your intercession for all our needs, physical, emotional, and spiritual. Through your loving care, help us to grow in faith and to walk closer to your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

(State your intentions here...)

Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be…

---

Final Prayer (Optional for the Last Day)

O Immaculate Virgin, mother of the true God and mother of the Church! You, who revealed your clemency and your pity to all those who ask for your protection, hear the prayer that we address to you with filial trust, and present it to your Son Jesus, our sole Redeemer.

Mother of Mercy, teacher of hidden and silent sacrifice, to you we dedicate on this day all our being and all our love. We also dedicate to you our life, our work, our joys, our infirmities, and our sorrows.

Grant peace, justice, and prosperity to our people, for we entrust to your care all that we have and all that we are, our Lady and Mother.

We wish to be entirely yours and to walk with you along the way of complete faithfulness to Jesus Christ and his Church: hold us always in your loving hand.

Virgin of Guadalupe, Mother of the Americas, we pray to you for all the bishops, that they may lead the faithful along paths of intense Christian life, of love, and humble service of God and souls.

Grant to our homes the grace of loving and respecting life in its beginnings, with the same love with which you conceived in your womb the life of the Son of God.

Blessed Virgin Mary, protect our families, so that they may always be united, and bless the upbringing of our children. Thus, Most Holy Mother, with the peace of God in our conscience, with our hearts free from evil and hatred, we will be able to bring to all true joy and true peace, which come to us from your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, who with God the Father and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.

---

Our Lady of Guadalupe: Pray for us!

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10 December 2024 - Daily Reflection

Isaiah 40:1-11: Consolations from the Heart of Jerusalem

Reflection:

1. God's Promise of Comfort

The opening verses of this passage contain a message of comfort for the people of Israel, who were experiencing hardship and exile. God speaks directly to Jerusalem, saying, "Comfort, comfort my people" (Isaiah 40:1). This call to comfort is not merely a soothing word but a promise of restoration. Israel, burdened by its sins and suffering, is reassured that God has not forgotten them. This passage reveals God’s deep compassion and His desire to bring peace and healing to His people. In our own lives, we too can find solace in the promise that God, in His mercy, desires to bring us comfort in our times of pain and distress.

2. The Road to Redemption

In the following verses, God instructs that a highway be prepared in the wilderness, making straight paths for the Lord (Isaiah 40:3). This image of a path being made through the rough terrain symbolizes the way of redemption and reconciliation. God is coming to restore His people, making their way clear and accessible. The passage invites us to consider what obstacles we might need to remove in our own lives to receive God’s healing and presence. Just as God prepared the way for the return of His people from exile, He prepares the way for each of us to return to Him—through repentance, renewal, and openness to His grace.

3. The Majesty and Tenderness of God

In the latter part of the passage, we see a profound description of God’s character. While He is majestic and mighty, capable of measuring the oceans in His hands and holding the earth in the palm of His hand (Isaiah 40:12), He is also tender and compassionate, gently leading His flock like a shepherd (Isaiah 40:11). These contrasting images highlight the fullness of God’s nature—He is both powerful and caring. This reminder of God’s dual nature calls us to trust in His ability to both protect and lead us, no matter our circumstances. Even in moments of uncertainty or fear, we can find peace knowing that God, in His majesty and tenderness, is leading us with love and care.

Isaiah 40:1-11 offers a powerful message of consolation. God promises comfort to His people, calls them to prepare the way for His redemption, and reminds them of His majesty and tenderness. This passage reassures us that no matter how difficult our circumstances, God is always with us, ready to guide us and restore us. As we reflect on this, let us open our hearts to His comfort, trusting that He will lead us to peace and healing.

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Matthew 18:12-14: The One Lost Sheep Gives Him More Joy Than the Ninety-Nine That Did Not Stray

Reflection:

1. God’s Deep Concern for the Lost

In this parable, Jesus teaches us about God’s immense love and care for each individual. The shepherd, who leaves the ninety-nine sheep to search for the one that went astray, represents God’s boundless love for us. He does not want any of His flock to be lost, no matter how far they have strayed. This parable reminds us that God’s love is personal and relentless; He seeks us out in our weakness and sin, desiring our return to Him. Even when we feel unworthy or far from Him, God is actively pursuing us, never giving up on us.

2. The Value of Each Soul

The parable highlights the great value God places on each person. The shepherd doesn’t abandon the ninety-nine because they are safe; rather, he goes after the one because every single sheep matters to him. Similarly, God treasures each soul and rejoices over the return of even one sinner. In a world that often measures value based on success, wealth, or power, God’s perspective is different. He values each person not for what they do, but for who they are—a beloved child of God. This teaches us to recognize the worth of others, especially those who may be struggling or lost.

3. The Joy of Redemption

The shepherd’s joy when he finds the lost sheep is a powerful image of God’s joy when a sinner repents. In heaven, there is great rejoicing over the one who returns to the fold, even more than over the many who do not need repentance (Luke 15:7). This illustrates that God’s heart is filled with joy when we turn back to Him, no matter how far we have gone astray. It invites us to recognize the beauty and grace in God’s willingness to forgive and restore us, no matter our past. This joy also extends to the Christian community, which should rejoice when one of its members returns to the fold.

In the parable of the lost sheep, Jesus reveals the depth of God’s love and the value He places on each soul. God’s desire to seek out the lost and bring them back to Himself is a testament to His boundless mercy. As we reflect on this, let us be encouraged by God’s unwavering love for us and others. We are never beyond His reach, and no one is ever too lost to be found. Let us also cultivate this same care and concern for others, reaching out to those who may have strayed, and rejoicing when they return to the fold.

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9 December 2024 - Daily Reflection

Genesis 3:9-15, 20: "The Mother of All Those Who Live"

Reflection:

1. The Fall and the Promise of Redemption

In Genesis 3, we witness the moment of humanity's fall through the sin of Adam and Eve. Their disobedience led to the breaking of their perfect communion with God, and as a result, they experienced shame, fear, and separation. Yet, even in the midst of judgment, God’s mercy shines through. In Genesis 3:15, God promises a future victory over sin and evil: “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will strike at your head, while you strike at his heel.” This is often called the Protoevangelium or "First Gospel" because it is the first hint of God's plan to redeem humanity. It points to the ultimate victory of Christ, born of the Virgin Mary, who would crush the head of the serpent, Satan.

2. The Role of the Woman

In this passage, the “woman” mentioned in God's promise is seen as a key figure in God’s redemptive plan. This is a foreshadowing of Mary, the mother of Jesus, who would give birth to the Savior of the world. Mary is called the “Mother of all those who live” because through her yes to God, she became the vessel through which life entered the world in the form of Jesus Christ, the Savior. She is the new Eve, bringing life through her obedience, as opposed to the first Eve, whose disobedience brought death. This passage invites us to reflect on the importance of Mary in salvation history and her role in bringing us closer to Jesus.

3. Hope Amidst Suffering

After the fall, the world was cursed with suffering, pain, and death, but God's promise in Genesis 3:15 provides hope. The promise of the coming Savior through the woman points to the ultimate triumph over evil. This is a reminder that even in the midst of our own struggles and failures, God is always at work, bringing about His plan of redemption. The victory of Christ over sin and death gives us the hope that, though we may face hardships, there is a greater purpose, and a future where all suffering will be redeemed.

Genesis 3:9-15, 20 speaks to us of the fall and the hope of salvation. Through the promise of God, we are reminded that no matter the challenges we face, God is at work in our lives, bringing about His plan of redemption. Mary, the mother of all the living, is a symbol of this hope, as through her obedience, she brought forth the One who would save us. Let us take comfort in the promise of God’s redemption and the life that He offers to all who trust in Him.

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Luke 1:26-38: "I Am the Handmaid of the Lord"

Reflection:

1. The Annunciation and Mary's Fiat

In this passage, we encounter the pivotal moment in salvation history—the Annunciation. The angel Gabriel visits Mary, announcing that she will conceive by the Holy Spirit and bear the Son of God. Despite the overwhelming nature of the message, Mary responds with humility and trust: "I am the handmaid of the Lord. Let it be done to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38). This "fiat" (meaning "let it be done") is Mary's wholehearted surrender to God's will. She models for us perfect obedience and trust, showing us the way to respond when God's plan challenges our own expectations or comforts. Mary’s yes to God, despite the uncertainty and sacrifice it entailed, opened the door for the salvation of the world.

2. The Role of Mary's Humility and Obedience

Mary’s response is a powerful expression of humility and faith. By calling herself the "handmaid" of the Lord, she places herself in a position of service and submission to God’s will. Her willingness to embrace God’s plan without fully understanding the consequences speaks volumes about her trust in God's goodness. In our own lives, we are often asked to surrender our plans and trust in God’s timing and direction. Mary’s example encourages us to respond with humility, even when we don't have all the answers or the path ahead seems unclear. Her obedience invites us to examine our own willingness to say "yes" to God, no matter what He asks of us.

3. The Power of God’s Word

The angel’s message to Mary is more than just a statement; it is a powerful word from God. When Mary receives it, her response is one of acceptance, making her a cooperator with God in bringing His will to fulfillment. Just as God's word brought about the creation of the world, His word also brings forth the Savior in Mary's womb. This teaches us the transformative power of God's Word. When we receive God's Word into our hearts with faith, it has the power to change us and bring about new life, just as it did in Mary. Through her response, we are reminded of the importance of opening our hearts to God's Word, allowing it to shape our lives and fulfill His purposes within us.

In Luke 1:26-38, Mary’s response to God’s call is a profound act of faith, humility, and obedience. Her “fiat” challenges us to ask: How do we respond when God asks something of us? Do we trust in His plan, even when we don’t fully understand it? Mary’s willingness to say “yes” to God offers us a model of how we can allow God’s Word to take root in our lives. May we, like Mary, be open to God’s will and, in doing so, become instruments of His grace in the world.

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8 December 2024 - Daily Reflection

Baruch 5:1-9: "God Means to Show Your Splendor to Every Nation"

Reflection:

1. The Promise of Restoration

In this passage, the prophet Baruch speaks of the Lord's promise to restore Jerusalem. The city's desolation will be replaced with glory, and God’s people will once again shine with the radiance of His presence. This is a beautiful image of hope for the exiled Israelites, and it’s also a message of encouragement for us today. No matter how difficult our circumstances may seem, God promises restoration and transformation. He will bring us back to Himself and restore us to our true glory in Him.

2. The Glory of God's People Will Be Revealed to All Nations

Baruch emphasizes that God will make His people shine for all nations to see. The restoration of Jerusalem is not just for the people of Israel but is meant to be a testimony to all nations of God's greatness and majesty. This mirrors the mission of the Church today: to be a light to the world, drawing all people to God. As Christians, we are called to live in such a way that others can see God's glory through us. Our lives should reflect His love, mercy, and truth, showing the world His splendor.

3. The Role of Faith in This Transformation

Baruch speaks of the transformation of Jerusalem in terms of the people’s faithfulness to God. Just as Jerusalem was once desolate because of the people's sin, so too can our lives become disordered when we turn away from God. However, through repentance, faith, and trust in God's promises, we can experience renewal. The invitation is to align our hearts with God's will, knowing that He will transform us and our world through His grace.

Baruch’s prophecy is a reminder that God has a plan for restoration and glory—not only for Jerusalem but for each one of us. When we trust in God’s promises, He will make us reflect His splendor to the world. Let us walk faithfully in His ways, letting His light shine through us for all to see, as a witness to His goodness, love, and power.

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Luke 3:1-6: "The Call of John the Baptist"

Reflection:

1. The Fulfillment of Prophecy

In these opening verses, Luke situates John the Baptist’s ministry within the historical context, showing that his calling was not random but part of God's grand plan. The reference to the prophecy of Isaiah underscores that John’s role was foretold centuries before. “Prepare the way of the Lord” (Isaiah 40:3) was a message meant to prepare the hearts of the people for the coming Messiah. This reminds us that God’s plans are always purposeful, and He often works in ways that build upon what has come before. John’s calling is a fulfillment of God's promise, and it points forward to the fulfillment of salvation in Jesus Christ.

2. A Call to Repentance and Transformation

John’s message is clear: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near” (Matthew 3:2). The call to repentance is not just about acknowledging sin, but about a deep, inner transformation. John was preparing the people to receive the grace that would come through Jesus. His message calls us to examine our hearts, to prepare a path for the Lord in our lives by turning away from sin, and making room for God’s grace to enter. It’s a reminder that we are called to more than surface-level change; God desires our whole lives to be transformed.

3. The Universal Reach of God's Salvation

John’s call, "All flesh shall see the salvation of God" (Luke 3:6), emphasizes the universal nature of God’s salvation. It is not for one particular group of people, but for all nations and peoples. The imagery of valleys being filled and mountains being made low symbolizes the leveling of pride and humility, making a clear path for all to come to God. This invites us to reflect on how we make space for others in our lives and in the Kingdom of God. Just as God’s call is for everyone, we too are called to invite all people to experience the love and salvation of Christ.

John the Baptist’s call to prepare the way for the Lord is a powerful invitation to examine our own lives. It challenges us to humble ourselves, repent, and allow God to transform us, so we can be part of the great story of salvation. As we reflect on this passage, let us ask ourselves: How can we prepare our hearts and our lives for Christ today, making straight His path in the world around us?

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