Trust in the Lord

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
February 16, 2025 — Year C
Readings: Jer 17:5-8 / Ps 1 / 1 Cor 15:12, 16-20 / Lk 6:17, 20-26
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

As we reflect on today’s readings, we see a striking contrast between those who trust in themselves and those who place their trust in God.  The scriptures challenge us to examine where we have placed our hope and security.  In a world that often measures success by wealth, power and influence, Jesus’ words in today’s gospel are radical and countercultural, but they also lead us to true and lasting joy.

The prophet Jeremiah gives us a clear image of two kinds of people.  First, those who trust in human strength are compared to a barren bush in the desert: dry, lifeless, and unable to bear fruit.  On the other hand, those who trust in the Lord are like a tree planted near water, with deep roots that withstand heat and drought.  The prophet makes a sharp contrast between those who trust in human strength and those who trust in God.  Cursed is the one who trusts in human beings.  Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.

Jeremiah’s message is clear:  human strength alone is unreliable.  It is not a warning against human relationships or seeking counsel from others, but rather a call to recognize that our ultimate goals – security and happiness – rest in God alone.  Everything in this world, including wealth, power, and even human approval, passes away.  God alone remains our firm foundation.  When we rely on our own wisdom, wealth, or power, we eventually find ourselves spiritually dry and empty.  But when we root ourselves in God, we can endure trials and bear good fruit even in difficult seasons.

St. Paul, in our second reading from first Corinthians, reminds us of the ultimate reason for our trust in God:  the resurrection of Jesus Christ.  If Christ has not been raised, our faith is vain.  Because He has risen, we, too, have the promise of eternal life.  This truth transforms our understanding of what it means to be truly blessed.  The world may see poverty, suffering, and rejection as curses, but in Christ these trials become paths to holiness, purification, and ultimate joy.  This reading connects beautifully with Jeremiah’s message.  The one who trusts in human ways alone is like a person who believes this life is all there is.  The one who trusts in Christ, however, understands that our lives are not limited to this world.  We are called to something eternal.

Today, and for the next two weeks, our gospel is the teaching of Jesus, which in St. Matthew’s gospel we know as the Sermon on the Mount.  Luke and Matthew present essentially the same material, but there are some notable differences.  While St. Matthew tells us that Jesus went up the mountain to teach, St. Luke depicts Jesus descending the mountain after prayer to teach on level ground.  For this reason, St. Luke’s version of Jesus’ teaching is often called the Sermon on the Plain.  Both evangelists begin with the Beatitudes, in which Jesus proclaims that those who follow His way are blessed, or happy.  St. Matthew records eight Beatitudes, while St. Luke gives us four, followed by four corresponding woes.  Despite these variations, the message remains the same:  True blessedness is not found in worldly success or fleeting pleasures, but in faithfulness to God.

Today’s liturgy provides us with a key to understanding these Beatitudes by giving us the passage from the prophet Jeremiah.  Jesus blesses the poor, the hungry, those who weep, and those who are hated for His sake.  In contrast, he warns those who are rich, full, and comfortable, telling them that their rewards are temporary.  At first glance, this may seem unfair.  Why would Jesus bless those who suffer and warn those who are successful?  The answer is found in where we place our trust.  Those who are poor in spirit recognize their need for God, while those who are self-sufficient may fall into the delusion that they do not need Him.

Fulton Sheen once said, “The world’s greatest tragedy is not suffering, but is suffering wasted.”  The Beatitudes and woes in Luke’s gospel call us to see life through the eyes of faith.  Jesus challenges the values of the world, where wealth, abundance, and human approval are seen as signs of success.  Instead, He teaches that true joy is found in trusting God, even in the midst of suffering.  Those who are poor, hungry, weeping, and rejected in this life are not abandoned but blessed because they are more open to God’s grace and the promise of His kingdom.  Conversely, those who place all their trust in material wealth, comfort, and human praise risk losing sight of what truly matters.

Answering God’s call requires trust and perseverance even though the path is difficult.  It reminds us that true happiness is found in God alone.  The Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1716, says the Beatitudes respond to the natural desire for happiness.  This desire is of divine origin.  God has placed it in the human heart in order to draw man to the One who alone can fulfill it.

The Beatitudes, we are promised, confront us with decisive moral choices.  They invite us to purify our hearts of bad instincts and to seek the love of God above all else.  In a world that constantly seeks happiness in temporary things, we are called to root ourselves in the eternal promises of God.  This means trusting God in our struggles, serving the poor, standing firm in our faith, even when it is unpopular, and finding joy in God rather than in the approval of others.  It means seeing suffering, not as a meaningless burden, but as an opportunity to grow in holiness and draw closer to Christ.

Jesus calls us to a different standard, valuing humility, compassion, and faithfulness over riches and power.  We should seek to serve, rather than dominate; give, rather than accumulate; love, rather than compete.  When we experience trials, we must remember that our true hope is in Christ’s victory over death.  The difficulties of this world are temporary.  Our true reward is eternal life with Him.

The world tells us to trust in riches, power, and comfort, but Jesus tells us to trust in Him.  Today, let us reflect where we place our trust.  Are we like the barren bush that relies on itself, or are we like the tree planted by the water, nourished by faith in God?  May we have the courage to place our trust in God alone, living out the Beatitudes, not just as words, but as a way of life.  Let us remember the wisdom of Jeremiah, the hope of the Resurrection proclaimed by St. Paul, and the challenge of Christ in the gospel.  For those who trust in the Lord, there’s no fear; only the promise of eternal life and true joy in Him.

God Qualifies the Called

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
February 9, 2025 — Year C
Readings: Is 6:1-2a, 3-8 / Ps 138 / 1 Cor 15:1-11 / Lk 5:1-11
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Have you ever felt unworthy of a task?  Too weak, too sinful to be used by God?  Today’s readings tell us that God does not call the qualified, He qualifies the called.  He chooses ordinary, flawed individuals and transforms them into instruments of His divine mission.  Isaiah, Paul, and Peter each experience an encounter with God that reveals their inadequacy.  Yet, they respond with faith and willingness.  Today’s readings tell us about answering God’s call in spite of our unworthiness.

In our first reading, Isaiah has a powerful vision of God’s glory, where the angels cry out, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Hosts!”  (Is 6:3) In the presence of God’s holiness, Isaiah immediately feels unworthy.  “Woe is me; I am doomed. For I am a man of unclean lips….” (Is 6:5) God, however, purifies him with a burning coal, symbolizing transformation.  Once purified, Isaiah hears God’s call: “Whom shall I send?”  He responds, “Here I am…send me!”  (Is 6:8) Isaiah’s response teaches us that acknowledging our weakness is the first step to being open to God’s grace.  Despite our imperfections, God purifies us and calls us to serve.

St. Paul, in the second reading, reflects on the core of the gospel: Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.  He humbly acknowledges his past as a persecutor of Christians, calling himself “the least of the apostles.”  (1 Cor 15:9)  Yet he declares, “But by the grace of God I am what I am,” recognizing that his transformation is solely due to God’s mercy.  Paul’s story mirrors Isaiah’s.  He, too, felt unworthy, but God’s grace made him a powerful instrument of evangelization.  His experience reminds us that our past does not define us.  God’s grace does.

In today’s gospel, we witness a profound moment of encounter between Jesus and St. Peter.  After a long and fruitless night of fishing, Peter and his companions are exhausted.  Their efforts have yielded nothing.  Yet when Jesus tells Peter to put out into deep water and lower the nets, Peter obeys, despite his doubts.  The result is astonishing:  a miraculous catch of fish so great that their nets begin to tear.  Overwhelmed, Peter falls to his knees saying, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.”  Instead of rejecting him, Jesus reassures Peter and calls him to a greater mission.  “From now on you will be catching men.”  (Lk 5:10)   The disciples leave everything and follow Jesus.  Like Isaiah and Paul, Peter is keenly aware of his unworthiness, but Jesus does not see him as he is.  He sees what he can become.

Peter’s response challenges us.  Do we trust Jesus enough to leave behind our fears and follow Him?  Peter had every reason to doubt.  He was an experienced fisherman and the conditions had not changed.  Yet, despite this human reasoning, he obeyed Jesus’ command.  This act of faith reminds us that when we trust in the Lord, even when His ways seem beyond our understanding, He can accomplish great things in our lives.

How often do we, like Peter, feel exhausted, discouraged, or convinced that our efforts are in vain?  Jesus calls us to deeper faith, to trust Him even when our experience tells us otherwise.

Peter’s reaction to the miraculous catch is striking.  Instead of pride, he is filled with humility and recognizes his unworthiness before the Lord.  This moment mirrors many encounters in scripture:  Isaiah’s vision of God’s glory (Is 6:1-8) and Paul’s conversion (1 Cor 15:1-11).  When we truly encounter Christ, we recognize our own sinfulness, but Jesus does not leave us there.  He calls us forward, not in fear, but in mission.

All three of today’s readings share a common theme:  a personal encounter with God leads to humility, transformation, and mission.  Isaiah, Paul, and Peter all feel unworthy, but God calls them anyway.  Their stories highlight the power of divine grace, showing that when God calls, He also equips.

The Church teaches that every baptized Christian is called to holiness and mission, regardless of personal weakness.  It is grace that enables us to fulfill God’s call.  Grace is first and foremost the gift of the Spirit Who justifies and sanctifies us.  Jesus transforms Peter’s identity.  He’s no longer just a fisherman.  He is now called to bring others to Christ.  This call extends to all of us.  As baptized Christians, we are called to evangelize, to share our faith and lead others to Jesus.  We may feel unworthy, unqualified, or fearful, but Jesus reassures us, “Do not be afraid.”

Peter and his companions leave behind their boat, their nets, and their old way of life.  Following Jesus requires sacrifice, but what we gain is far greater than what we leave behind.  The invitation to discipleship is a call to trust, to let go of attachments, and to surrender our lives to Christ.

St. Mother Teresa, who dedicated her life to serving the poorest of the poor, once said, “God does not require that we be successful, only that we be faithful.”  This echoes today’s gospel.  Peter did not need to be a perfect fisherman.  He just needed to trust Jesus.  Likewise, we may not always see immediate success in our mission, but God asks us to remain faithful.

Many of us hesitate to serve because we feel unworthy.  Like Isaiah, Paul, and Peter, we must remember that God’s grace is greater than our weaknesses, so that we can overcome those feelings of unworthiness.  Let us also trust in God’s plan.  When Peter obeyed Jesus, he witnessed a miracle.  When we trust in God, even when it seems illogical, He works in ways we cannot imagine.

We may not be aware of it, but in our daily lives, God is always calling us to help the needy, share our faith, or forgive someone.  Instead of saying, “I am not ready,” let’s say, “Here I am, Lord.”  Let’s say yes to God’s call.  The world measures success in achievements.  God measures it in faithfulness.  We are called to serve even if we do not see immediate results.

Today’s readings remind us that God’s call is not based on our worthiness, but on His grace.  Like Isaiah, Paul, and Peter, we are called to trust Him, respond with faith and follow where He leads.  May we too, say with Isaiah, “Here I am Lord.  Send me.”  Let’s go forth knowing that God does not call the perfect.  He perfects those He calls.

The Gift of Piety

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
February 2, 2025 — Year B
Readings: Mal 3:1-4 / Ps 24 / Heb 2:14-18 / Lk 2:22-40
by Rev. Mr. Mark De La Hunt, Permanent Deacon

Today the Holy Mother Church turns our focus to Mary and Joseph presenting Baby Jesus to the Lord in the temple. This is the Fourth Joyful Mystery of the rosary. One fruit of that mystery is obedience to the religious teachings of the Church in emulation of Mary and Joseph who faithfully followed the law God gave to His people. In this homily we will dispel the false teaching that religious practices are empty manmade traditions and ponder ways to awaken in ourselves the Holy Spirit’s gift of piety.

Let’s zoom out for a minute and recap today’s scripture passages. Malachi prophesies about today’s gospel writing, “Behold, I send my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to His temple…behold, He is coming.” (Mal 3:1-2)

King David’s prayer in the psalm also points to the gospel: “Lift up your heads, O gates! And be lifted up, O ancient doors! That the King of Glory may come in.” (Ps 24: 9)

In the second reading from Hebrews, we hear temple language about Jesus as both priest and sacrifice: “…He had to be made like His brethren in every respect, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest…to make expiation for the sins of the people.” (Heb 2:17)

And as always, the gospel ties it all together in Jesus who is the King of Glory entering the temple “…when His parents brought in the child Jesus to be offered up to God.” (Lk 2: 27)

Did you catch the sacramental language in Malachi’s words about Jesus coming to the temple? “He is like a refiner’s fire and a fuller’s soap…He will purify the sons of Levi…till they present right offerings to the Lord.” (Mal 3: 3) On the cross, from the side of Jesus’ body, which is the new temple, there poured out the waters of baptism and the blood of the Eucharist. These refine us. Baptism takes away our sin and makes us priests like Malachi’s “sons of Levi,” and in the Eucharist our High Priest purifies us.

How often do we forget that when we were baptized, our body too, became a temple in which the Holy Spirit, third person of the Holy Trinity, dwells? That was God’s plan just as Jesus shared it with the Samaritan woman at the well, “…the hour…is now here when true worshippers will worship the Father in the Spirit.” (Jn 4: 23-24)

What do you need to do in your life to “lift the gates” of your “temple” so that Jesus, the King of Glory, may enter? What must we do to invite the Holy Spirit more fully into our mind, body, and soul? What gate-raising religious practices are we not taking advantage of? Has the weight of our unforgiven sin pulled the gate down? What tangible things can we do to raise the gates to our mind, body, and soul?

In this gospel passage, Luke mentions five times that Mary and Joseph observed the laws God gave His people, so it must be important. Those laws included religious practices, not for God, for He needs nothing. The religious practices are for the people, because God who knows us better than we know ourselves, knows we need religious laws and practices to draw us closer to Him in a unity of mind-body-soul. (All three must be in accord with Christ if we are to live life abundantly as Jesus desires.) Jesus founded the Holy Mother Church, the Catholic religion, to guard and proclaim His teachings through religious practices. Human beings need structure. What religious practices does the Church require us to be obedient to?

The Catechism states that there are five “positive laws decreed” by the Church to “guarantee to the faithful the very necessary minimum in the spirit of prayer and moral effort, in the growth in love of God and neighbor.” (CCC 2041)  These five precepts or laws are:

• “You shall attend Mass on Sundays and on holy days of obligation and rest from unnecessary labors (and entertainment) that would prevent you from doing so.” (CCC 2042)
• “You shall confess your sins at least once a year. Confession continues Baptism’s work of conversion and forgiveness.” (2042) (Confession is at Holy Name of Mary in Bedford Wednesdays 5:45 PM and at St. Thomas More in Lynchburg 2:30 PM on Saturdays, St. Andrews in Roanoke Mon/Thur/Sat.) Confession lifts the gates of your heart and mind higher for the next precept.
• “You shall receive the sacrament of the Eucharist at least during the Easter season.” (2042) When Jesus’ flesh enters our body, it is the King of Glory entering the temple. (Can you imagine if Micah and King David could go to Communion with us?! They prophesied for and prayed for what we receive.)
• “You shall observe the days of fasting and abstinence established by the Church.” (2043) In today’s gospel, Anna is described as one who fasted regularly. We can only serve one master. Fasting and abstaining from things we tend to overly desire helps move us from being impulse-centered to being Christ-centered. You can start living this law by observing the one-hour fast before receiving Holy Communion.
• “You shall help to provide for the needs of the Church, each according to their ability.” (2043) Luke doesn’t mention it, but Mary and Joseph would have paid the temple five silver shekels that day for what was called the “redemption price” for the first born. (Num 18:16) Our Sunday offering also raises our temple gate for the Lord

The Church calls these the “very necessary minimum.”  If they are the minimum, what was not listed that, if observed or practiced, will also lift those gates? The right way to answer that question is to begin by asking the Holy Spirit to increase the gift of piety that we received when we were confirmed in the Spirit. (Is 11) (Consider praying in the Spirit with the HNM Holy Spirit Prayer Ministry Tuesdays at 7 PM.)  Piety is the act of showing honor and reverence to God through religious practices. Mary, Joseph, Simeon, and Anna model piety for us.

Piety includes many devotions, the supreme one being the adoration of Jesus in the Eucharist, what the Catechism calls a blend of love and humility. (CCC 2628) Other devotions include praying the Holy Rosary, praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet and other memorized prayers like the Angelus (usually done at noon, while facing in the direction of the nearest Catholic Church). Other devotions include availing yourself of sacramentals such as dipping your finger in the holy water, blessing yourself in the Holy Trinity, kissing your Bible, or kissing Jesus’ body on a crucifix.

Another form of piety is holy reading of the writings of saints, spiritual masters, and sacred scripture. Fr. Tim Gallagher, a spiritual master, suggests reading one page a day so that you always have something spiritually fresh coming into your life. In addition to the Bible, St. Augustine’s book, Confessions, and Thomas a Kempis’s book, Imitation of Christ, consist of short reflections that make this easier. And, if you pray the Liturgy of the Hours, Night Prayer, you will pray Simeon’s canticle from today’s gospel “so that like Simeon, [you] may end your day and life in God’s peace.”

Here are a couple more thoughts from the faithful on piety. I like this quote: “Piety helps the beauty of God to become manifest in the heart.” Seeing God’s beauty in Adoration and in the goodness of holy people come to mind. Here is another good quote: “The gift of piety is a constant awareness of God’s presence.

The one act of piety that has aided me the most in staying aware of God’s presence is the St. Ignatius Daily Examen.  At the end of our day in the Examen, we look at our day through God’s eyes, the eyes of a Father who loves us more than we can imagine. We seek His help in listing His gifts great and small (a hot cup of coffee on a cold morning, catching all the green lights, good news from the doctor.). We reflect on how our emotions moved us toward or away from Him. We list those actions for which we should rejoice and those for which we should seek forgiveness. Finally, we request His help with the big and small tasks and acts of piety in the upcoming day.

Since I began doing the Daily Examen this past Advent, I have noticed that I am more aware of God’s presence throughout my busy days. I had a work meeting that I knew might cause some anxiety and had asked for His help in it. The next day, during that meeting when I felt a bit anxious, I remembered that in my Daily Examen the night before, I had asked for His help, and that comforted me and made me aware of His presence.  He is always present of course, but acts of piety help us become aware of His presence and care.

Here is a piety story for you. Years ago, my wife and I purchased a St. Joseph prayer kit for selling our home. You may be familiar with this. It has a statue of St. Joseph and a prayer card with instructions. We sought Joseph’s intercession and buried the statue upside down in the yard as prescribed. An hour or two later it was bothering me that we buried the statue in the dirt upside down. I went back out and dug it up, washed it off, and set it on branches of a bush, right side up. Seemed more dignified to me.

Our house, however, wasn’t selling. The days turned into weeks and the weeks into months and doubt crept in. The delay revealed our lack of faith, a realization that is a gift in itself. Once we had that gift, St. Joseph went to work. He revealed to us God’s faithfulness and care. Our house sold in the dead of winter with ten inches of snow on the ground in a bad real estate market. To make God’s love even more evident, the buyer was a person living in the same neighborhood!  That sacramental St. Joseph statue sits prominently on my prayer desk where I worked on this homily.  St. Joseph has become a dear friend, helper, and spiritual father to me. That is a fruit of piety.

Pray over today’s gospel for an increase in the Holy Spirit’s gift of piety that you may better honor and reverence God and grow in love of neighbor.  And when your stomach growls at Mass from your Eucharistic fast, smile and imagine the Holy Spirit raising the gates to your mind, body, and soul.

Let’s close with an act of piety, seeking the help of Jesus’ pious Mom and Dad:  Mary and Joseph, pray for us that we may observe your Son’s laws through His Church to increase our love for You and our neighbors. Amen.

Live God’s Word

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
January 26, 2025 — Year C
Readings: Neh 8:2-4a, 5-6, 8-10 / Ps 19 / 1 Cor 12:12-30 / Lk 1:1-4, 4:14-21
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Today’s readings beautifully converge on the theme of God’s Word as the source of life, joy, and unity.  Each reading reminds us of the transformative power of scripture and the mission it inspires.

In our first reading, Ezra the priest reads the law of God to the people of Israel who had just returned from exile.  As they hear the Word, they are deeply moved, weeping in response to its power.  Ezra encourages them, saying, “Do not be saddened this day, for rejoicing in the Lord must be your strength.”  This moment highlights the communal aspect of encountering God’s Word.  It is proclaimed, understood, and celebrated together.  The Word re-centers their identity as God’s chosen people, offering both correction and hope.

Saint Paul, in the second reading, emphasizes the unity and diversity of the Church, comparing it to the human body.  Each member has a unique role, but all are interconnected, forming one body in Christ.  The spirit binds this body together, empowering each of us to contribute to the mission of the Church.  This teaching complements the first reading by showing how living out God’s Word involves both individual responsibility and communal harmony.

Paul’s beautiful imagery of the Church as the body of Christ reminds us of the profound unity and diversity within our faith community.  Paul likens the Church to a physical body where each member has a unique role and function.  The independence of the body shows that when one member suffers, the whole body suffers, and when one member is honored, all rejoice together.  This reminds us of our call to compassion and solidarity.  We are not isolated individuals, but part of a community where our joys and sorrows are shared.

In the gospel, Jesus begins his public ministry by proclaiming a passage from Isaiah.  “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.”  After reading, He declares, “Today this Scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing.”  Jesus positions himself as the fulfillment of God’s promises, bringing liberation, healing, and restoration.  His mission is not abstract but grounded in the needs of the marginalized and broken-hearted.

The Word of God is the central theme, uniting these readings.  In Nehemiah, the Word is rediscovered.  In Corinthians, it calls us to live in unity and purpose.  In Luke, it is fulfilled in Christ.  Together, they remind us that God’s Word is not just to be heard, but to be lived, transforming our communities and the world.

There is a story of the six blind men who set out to discover what the elephant is.  The first blind man feels the elephant’s side and says that the elephant is like a wall.  The second blind man feels the elephant’s tusk and says it is like a spear.  The third feels the trunk and says it is like a snake.  The fourth feels the elephant’s leg and says the elephant is like a tree.  The fifth feels the ear and says it is like a fan.  The sixth blind man feels the elephant’s tail and concludes that the elephant is like a rope.

You can imagine the bitter disagreement that would ensue among them if they got together to discuss the nature of the elephant.  Every one of them would insist that he is right, and the others are wrong.  But the truth of the matter is that yes, he is right, but then so also are all the others.  Each of them has a valid experience of the elephant, but not one of them possesses the full knowledge of the total reality of the elephant.  Even when you put all the six images of the elephant together, it still does not capture the full mosaic of the elephant.

After Vatican II, the Church revised the Sunday readings into a three-year cycle.  Year A focuses on the Gospel of Matthew, Year B on Mark, and Year C on Luke.  The Gospel of John is spread throughout the cycle, particularly on significant Sundays such as those in the Easter season.  Currently, we are in year C, in the year dedicated to Luke.  This prompts an important question:  What aspect of the mystery of Christ does Luke emphasize, and how does it differ from the focus of the other gospels?

One scholar offers a concise way to understand the unique themes of each gospel.  Matthew emphasizes Christ’s majesty, healing by Word alone, never touching people, and demonstrating divine authority, even in His emotions, remaining calm and composed.  Mark highlights Christ’s might, showing His identity as Messiah through acts of power and authority over nature and demons.  Luke, however, presents Christ as the face of mercy, reaching out to the poor, the marginalized, foreigners, and women.  Finally, John reveals the Christ of mystery, eternally with the Father, revealing profound truths that lead to eternal life.

Today we began reading the Gospel of Luke.  In his opening preface, Luke explains that he wrote this gospel to help Theophilus, likely a Roman official, understand the essence of Christianity.  Have you ever tried to explain what Christianity is all about?   Many people mistakenly view it as a system of rules, focusing on sin, judgment, heaven, and hell, a religion where God is seen as a heavenly policeman, constantly tracking our sins and waiting to punish us.

Luke offers a profoundly different perspective.  For him, Christianity is primarily about God’s love and mercy, not condemnation.  This is why Luke includes the account of Jesus in the synagogue at Nazareth, a pivotal moment found only in this gospel.  Here, Jesus proclaims his mission which can be described as the “Jesus Manifesto.”  Jesus initiates a revolution of mercy and love by saying, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.  He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, and to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord.”  In this profound declaration, Jesus reveals His mission:  to bring good news to the poor, to set captives free, to heal the blind, to liberate the oppressed, and to proclaim the time of God’s favor.  This is the heart of Jesus’ work in Luke’s gospel, a mission of love, compassion, and transformation.

As Christians, we are therefore called to rediscover the joy of Scripture.  Like the Israelites in Nehemiah’s time, we are called to cherish God’s Word.  Make time this week to prayerfully read Scripture, letting it touch your heart.  We are also invited to reflect on our own unique gifts, on how we can serve our community, whether through teaching, acts of charity, or prayer.  Every contribution matters.

Christ’s mission is now ours.  How can we bring glad tidings to the poor in our daily lives?  We can consider acts of kindness, advocacy for justice, or offering comfort to someone in need.  Pope Francis reminds us that the Bible is not just a beautiful book to keep on the shelf.  It is the Word of Life to be sown, a gift that Jesus asks us to accept in order to have life in His name.  Let us open our hearts to God’s Word, allowing it to transform us and guide our mission as disciples of Christ.  Together, we can build a community rooted in love, united in purpose, and inspired by the Spirit.

The Abundance of God’s Love

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
January 19, 2025 — Year C
Readings: Is 62:1-5 / Ps 96 / 1 Cor 12:4-11 / Jn 2:1-11
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Today’s readings beautifully converge to reveal the abundance of God’s love and grace in our lives.  At the center of this message is the story of the wedding at Cana, where Jesus performs His first miracle, turning water into wine.  This event not only reveals Jesus’ divine power, but also highlights the tender intercession of Mary, who notices a need and acts to ensure that God’s grace flows abundantly.

In our first reading, Isaiah speaks of God’s deep love for His people, using the imagery of a wedding to describe the relationship between God and Israel.  The prophet declares that God will no longer forsake His people but will delight in them as a bridegroom delights in his bride.  This passage is rich with hope and restoration, reminding us that God’s covenant with His people is rooted in love and joy.  The imagery of a wedding resonates with the gospel in which Jesus’ miracle at Cana prefigures the eternal union between Christ and His Church.  Isaiah’s words remind us that God’s love transforms us, giving us a new name and identity as His beloved.

In Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, he speaks of the diversity of spiritual gifts within the Christian community.  He emphasizes that these gifts come from the same Spirit and are given for the common good.  Each gift, whether wisdom, knowledge, faith, or healing, is a manifestation of the Spirit working in and through us.  This reading connects to the gospel as it reminds us that God’s grace is not limited.  Just as Jesus abundantly provides wine at Cana, God generously bestows spiritual gifts on His people. These gifts, when used for others, glorify God and build up the community of faith.

The wedding at Cana is a profound moment in the gospel of John.  Mary, noticing that the wine has run out, approaches Jesus with a simple, yet faith-filled request.  Her words, “They have no wine,” reveal her deep compassion and attentiveness.  Mary’s heart as a mother shines here. She sees a need and intercedes, sparing the couple from embarrassment on their special day.

In the Mediterranean region, wine is a very important part of every meal.  At this wedding feast, the wine has run out.  It is an important moment for Jesus to perform His first miracle, showing His glory and at the same time helping His disciples to grow in faith.  Although this miracle is His first one, it is not a small one.  The jars that the servants fill at the Lord’s command are large, Jewish in style, and made of stone of the type that was used in those days for their purification ceremonies.  The gospel reading tells us that each one held one hundred liters, and they filled several.

Jesus does not content Himself with just pleasing His mother and helping the family and the newlywed couple.  He does all of this by giving them a wine of excellent quality. When the head waiter tests the water that has become wine, he says to the bridegroom, “Everyone serves good wine first, but you have kept the good wine until now.”  In other words, as wondrous and as marvelous as the saving acts of Jesus in our lives have been in the past, more and better is yet in store.  In the words of Isaiah, “For the Lord delights in you, and as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride, so shall your God rejoice in you.”

The gospel this Sunday teaches us that, when we pray to the most Holy Virgin Mary, asking her to help us, we will always find her ready to intercede with her Son for us.  If we ask for something that is good for us and we pray with faith, Christ will certainly perform a miracle for us, first to please His mother and then to help us in our need.

We might also be wondering about Jesus’ response when He says, “Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come.”  This may seem puzzling.  By calling Mary “woman,” however, Jesus is honoring her as the new Eve.  This title connects back to Genesis 3:15, where God foretells the victory of the woman’s offspring over the serpent.  Mary, as the new Eve, plays a pivotal role in God’s plan of salvation, culminating in Jesus’ victory over sin and death.  At Mary’s prompting, Jesus performs His first miracle, transforming water into wine.  This act reveals His divine power and foreshadows the ultimate abundance of grace that He will pour out through His passion, death, and resurrection.

This event also highlights Mary’s role as an intercessor who leads us to her Son.  Mary’s action at Cana shows the depth of her maternal heart.  She notices the couple’s predicament before anyone else and takes it upon herself to help.  Her sensitivity to her friends’ needs reflects her role as our spiritual mother, always attentive to our struggles and bringing them to Jesus.  Her words to the servants, “Do whatever He tells you,” remain a timeless instruction for all Christians.

Mary launches Jesus into His ministry, knowing that at this moment she’s letting go of her Son.  To think that this beautiful exchange between mother and Son took place prior to all else Jesus would say and do only reaffirms the beautiful love between them and foreshadows the sacrifices both would make for the Kingdom of God.  This mystery is a prophetic foreshadowing, an assurance that indeed the best is yet to come.

We are reminded today, through the message of the gospel, that as Christians, we are called to trust in Mary’s intercession.  Just as Mary interceded for the couple at Cana, she intercedes for us.  We can confidently bring our needs to her, knowing she will lead us to Jesus.  We are called to recognize God’s abundance.  Jesus’ provision of wine reminds us that God’s grace is limitless. In times of need, we are invited to trust in His providence.

Let us also use our gifts for others.  Like the servants who obeyed Jesus, we are called to cooperate with God’s plan and use our gifts to serve others, bringing joy and blessings to our communities.  Most importantly, let us see Christ in our daily lives.  The transformation of water into wine reminds us that Jesus sanctifies the ordinary.  We are invited to encounter Him in the routines and relationships of our lives.  The wedding at Cana reveals the loving heart of our mother, Mary, and the abundant grace of Jesus Christ.  Mary’s intercession and Jesus’ miracle teach us to trust in God’s love and providence.

As we go forth, let us strive to live in accordance with the gospel by being attentive to the needs of others, trusting in God’s abundance, and using our gifts to glorify Him.  May Mary our mother guide us always to her Son, who transforms our lives with His grace.

We Are Beloved Children

The Baptism of the Lord
January 12, 2025 — Year C
Readings: Is 42:1-4, 6-7 / Ps 29 / Acts 10:34-38 / Lk 3:15-16, 21-22
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

The Baptism of the Lord is a profound moment in the life of Christ and the Church.  Today we celebrate not only Jesus’ baptism, but also the revelation of His identity and His mission.  It is a reminder of our own baptism, where we, too, are given a new identity and mission as beloved children of God.  The words of the Father at Jesus’ baptism, “You are my beloved Son; with You I am well pleased,” resonate deeply as the cornerstone of today’s reflection.

The prophet Isaiah, in our first reading, speaks of comfort, hope, and renewal for the people of Israel.  He proclaims the coming of the Lord, whose glory will be revealed for all to see.  The imagery of valleys being lifted and mountains laid low signifies that nothing will stand in the way of God’s salvation.  This passage sets the stage for the revelation of Jesus as the Messiah, the One who comes to shepherd His people with tenderness and strength.

In the second reading, St. Paul emphasizes the grace of God, who brings salvation to all.  This grace teaches us to live lives of holiness, and points to the mercy of God revealed through Jesus Christ.  Through baptism, we are reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit, becoming heirs of eternal life.  This transformation connects directly to Christ’s baptism, when the Spirit descended upon Him, symbolizing His mission to bring salvation to humanity.

In today’s gospel, John the Baptist prepares the way for the Messiah, emphasizing the greatness of the One who will come after him.  When Jesus is baptized, the heavens open. The Holy Spirit descends like a dove, and the Father’s voice proclaims, “You are my beloved Son; with You I am well pleased.”  This moment marks the revelation of Jesus’ divine identity, and His mission to redeem humanity.

The readings converge in terms of revelation, transformation, and mission.  Isaiah foretells the coming of the Lord’s glory.  Paul explains how God’s grace transforms us into His children.  Luke recounts the moment when Jesus’ divine identity is revealed at His baptism.  These messages remind us that baptism is not just a ritual, but a profound encounter with God’s grace, revealing our identity as His beloved children, and our mission to live as disciples.

Last Sunday’s Epiphany celebrated the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles, through the visit of the Magi, revealing Him as the light of the world.  Today’s feast continues this revelation, focusing on Jesus’ identity as the beloved Son of God, and the start of His public ministry.  Both feasts highlight how Jesus is revealed as the savior for all humanity.

When Jesus stepped into the Jordan River, He didn’t do so for His own sake.  He was sinless and had no need for baptism.  Yet, He chose to be baptized for our sake.  By entering those waters, He sanctified them, transforming baptism as the gateway to grace and salvation.  At His baptism, the Holy Spirit descended, and the Father’s voice declared, “You are my beloved Son; with You I am well pleased.    This moment was not only an affirmation of Jesus’ identity as the Son of God, but also the beginning of His mission.  Anointed by the Spirit, He would go on to preach, heal, and ultimately redeem humanity through His death and resurrection.

Anointing isn’t just a holy function; it is a declaration.  It revealed that He was the Messiah, the Anointed One, the Christ.  One is anointed to be a priest, a prophet, and a king.  That’s exactly who Jesus is forever.  He’s the great high priest, the greatest of all prophets, the eternal king.  From His baptism, He went into the wilderness to battle Satan.  Moved by the power of the Holy Spirit, He fulfilled His mission.  The Father declared over Him, “You are my beloved Son.”  Baptism revealed Jesus’ identity and mission.  His identity is that He’s the beloved Son, the Christ, the Anointed One, the priest, prophet, and king.  His mission was also revealed.

For us, baptism is more than an entry into the Church.  It is a moment when God declares over each of us, “You are my beloved son,” or “You are my beloved daughter.”  Through baptism, we receive a new identity as children of God, and are entrusted with a mission.  As baptized Christians, we are not only given a new identity as beloved children of God, but also entrusted with tasks and responsibilities toward our brothers, sisters, and community.  Baptism calls us to live in service, love, and solidarity, following the example of Christ.  We are called to foster unity and understanding among those around us.  St. Paul reminds, in his letters, that we are one body in Christ.  Our mission, as baptized Christians, is to tear down barriers of division, and build bridges of reconciliation.

Jesus’ mission often focused on the marginalized and downtrodden.  As His followers, we must show compassion and care for those in need, whether through acts of charity, advocacy, or simply offering a listening ear and a loving heart.  Like Jesus, who began His public ministry after His baptism, we are tasked with sharing the good news.  This doesn’t always mean preaching from a pulpit.  It can mean living a life that radiates Christ’s love, joy, and hope in our daily interactions.

St. Maximillian Kolbe, a modern martyr and profound witness to Christ’s love, once said, “Let us remember that love lives through sacrifice and is nourished by giving.  Without sacrifice, there is no love.”  Our baptism calls us to this sacrificial love; to give ourselves for the good of others.  St. Maximillian Kolbe embodied this love when he gave his life to save a fellow prisoner in Auschwitz.

While most of us will not face such extreme circumstances, we are called to make daily sacrifices for the good of our families, communities, and even strangers.  Our baptism not only affirms our identity as God’s beloved children but also calls us to action.  Just as Christ’s baptism began His mission, ours commissions us to live out our faith in practical, sacrificial love for our brothers and sisters.

Today, let us hear again the words spoken over Jesus and know that they are meant for us: “You are my beloved son; with you I am well pleased.”  Let this truth guide us and guide our lives.  In moments of doubt and struggle, remember that we are God’s beloved children.  May this identity inspire us to live out our mission with courage, faith, and love, as Jesus did.

Let Us Be Like the Magi

The Epiphany of the Lord
January 5, 2025 — Year C
Readings: Is 60:1-6 / Ps 72 / Eph 3:2-3a, 5-6 / Mt 2:1-12
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany, a significant moment in the liturgical calendar, when we reflect on how Jesus is revealed as the Savior, not only to the Jewish people, but to all nations.  The word epiphany means manifestation or revelation.  This feast reminds us of God’s plan to bring salvation to the entire world and challenges us to respond to His revelation with true worship.

Let us explore today’s readings, how they connect to the feast, and why the Feast of Epiphany is essential for our faith.

The prophet Isaiah speaks of Jerusalem as a city radiant with God’s glory.  The imagery of light overcoming darkness symbolizes the revelation of God’s salvation.  Nations and kings are drawn to this divine light, bringing gifts of gold and frankincense as signs of worship and acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty. This prophecy finds its fulfillment in the visit of the Magi to the Christ Child.  Isaiah’s vision points to a universal salvation where all peoples are invited to encounter the light of Christ.

St. Paul, in our second reading, proclaims the mystery of Christ that Gentiles are co-heirs to the promise of salvation.  This was a radical message for Paul’s time, breaking down the barriers between Jews and Gentiles.  The Feast of the Epiphany underscores this truth.  The Magi, representing the nations, are the first Gentiles to encounter and worship Christ, signaling the inclusivity of God’s plan of salvation.

The gospel recounts the visit of the Magi, wise men from the east who follow a star to find the newborn King.  They bring gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, each with symbolic meaning:  gold for kingship, frankincense for divinity, and myrrh for sacrifice.  The contrasting responses to Jesus are striking.  The Magi worship Him, while Herod reacts with fear and hostility.  The story challenges us to reflect on our own response to God’s revelation.

The common thread across the readings is the manifestation of Christ to the nations.  Isaiah foretells it. Paul declares its fulfillment.  Matthew narrates the Magi’s response as representatives of the Gentile world.  Together, these readings emphasize that salvation is for all, breaking boundaries of ethnicity and culture.

The Feast of the Epiphany dates back to the third century, celebrated initially in the Eastern Church.  It commemorated not only the visit of the Magi, but also the baptism of Jesus and the wedding at Cana, all moments of divine revelation.  Over time, the Western Church emphasized the Magi’s visit as the primary focus.  The feast is important because it highlights God’s gradual self-revelation, culminating in Jesus Christ.  It calls us to recognize God’s light in our lives and to respond with worship as the Magi did.

At the heart of the Feast of Epiphany is the recognition that at this moment in history, Jesus is revealed to the nations.  This feast acknowledges how God has gradually revealed Himself over time.  First, He called one person, Abraham.  Next, He called Abraham’s family, and eventually all of the people of Israel.  However, at this pivotal moment in history, with the birth of Jesus Christ, God is revealed to the nations in an extraordinary way.  The Feast of the Epiphany, exemplified by the visit of the Magi, is not just about God revealing Himself.  It is also about His revelation being recognized by the nations.

This leads us to the essential question:  When God reveals Himself, what is our response?  Our response could be like Herod’s, rejecting God’s presence, even wanting Him out of the world.  It could also be indifference or ignorance.  The proper response to God, however, is worship.

Worship is the heart of all religions.  It is not just about creeds or moral behavior, though both are important.  At its core, religion is about a relationship with God and the heart of that relationship is worship.  A religion without worship is not a religion, but rather, a philosophy.  Philosophies are valuable, but they are not the same as religion.  Religion calls us to a relationship with the Creator and worship is the expression of that relationship.

When we encounter God, the natural response of the heart is to ask, “What can I give?”  Worship is not for God’s benefit.  He needs nothing from us.  Instead, worship is the only fitting response to the Creator, the source of all being.  Worship stems from justice.  It is about giving God His due.  In every Mass, we acknowledge this when we say, “It is right and just.”  Worship is not only our duty, but also our salvation.  Without worship, we miss the very essence of our relationship with God.

True worship arises from recognizing God’s majesty and offering our best.  The Magi’s gifts symbolize this act of giving.  They teach us to approach God with hearts full of gratitude, justice, and love, offering not leftovers, but our very best.  In the Mass, we participate in the highest form of worship.  The Eucharist is not just a ritual but a representation of Christ’s sacrifice.  It invites us to offer our lives in union with His.

Some people say, “I don’t get anything out of Mass.”  Mass, however, is not about how we feel.  It is about giving God what He is owed.  The essence of the Mass is not about what we get from it.  At the heart of every Mass, we represent the once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus Christ, His life, death, and resurrection, and offer it to the Father.  When we go to Mass, we are participating in this act of justice, giving back to God what He deserves.

Worship, by its nature, is not about receiving, but about giving.  It is about offering ourselves to God, uniting our prayers, our hearts, and our sacrifices with the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the cross.  Instead of asking, “What can I get out of this?” the better question is, “What can I offer?”  We should think about how we can join our hearts and lives with the sacrifice of Jesus for the glory of God and the salvation of the world.  This shift from receiving to giving deepens our engagement and allows us to experience the Mass as it truly is:  the greatest act of love and worship.

Let us be like the Magi.  Let us seek the light by following the light of Christ, even when the path is uncertain.  Let us also offer our best in worship and in daily life, giving God our finest in our time, talent, and treasure.  Like the bright star that shone on the Magi, let us be the light to others, reflecting Christ’s light to those around us, especially those still searching for meaning and hope.

The Epiphany of the Lord invites us to recognize Christ as the light of the world, worship Him with our whole hearts, and share His light with all nations.  As we celebrate this feast, let us reflect on our response to God’s revelation and renew our commitment to authentic worship.  Let us, like the Magi, approach the altar of the Lord with the best we have, offering our lives as a gift to the One who has revealed Himself to us and the world.  It is right and just.

The Spirit of Christmas

The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas)
December 25, 2024 — Year C
Readings: Is 9:1-6 / Ps 96 / Ti 2:11-14 / Lk 2:1-14
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Many of us may be familiar with the song, “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.” It starts with, I heard the bells on Christmas Day, their old familiar carols play, and wild and sweet the words repeat, of peace on earth, good will to men. The song starts nicely, but on the third and following verses it continues:

Then from each black, accursed mouth
            The cannon thundered in the South,
            And with the sound the carols drowned
            Of peace on earth, good will to men.
            It was as if an earthquake rent
            The hearthstones of a continent,
            And made forlorn the households born
            Of peace on earth, good will to men.
            And in despair I bowed my head;
            “There is no peace on earth,” I said,
            “For hate is strong and mocks the song
            Of peace on earth, good will to men.”

 The stanzas suddenly seem to get dark and sad, and we can ask ourselves, what is this song all about? If we go to the origin of the song, we realize what actually is happening.

This song was written in 1863 by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. He was a poet and a literary critic. Longfellow had faith to some degree but also had pain and suffering mark his life. His wife perished in a fire that he tried to extinguish, even with his own body. His eldest son was shot during the Civil War, and the youngest son also died at a young age.

Longfellow is a widower surrounded by tragedy:  his son’s being killed in the Civil War and devastating things happening in that war, such as the pain, the number of lives that were being lost, and his own grief. Sitting in his home on December 25, 1863, he hears the bells of the local church ringing. He is inspired to write the poem, “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.”  Longfellow’s experience had shown him that there wasn’t peace on earth.  He knew that there was violence on earth, there was ugliness on earth. He writes about hearing the cannon thundering in the South and of how many houses are empty of their sons because of this Civil War. In this song, you see a man with a broken heart in a broken world on Christmas Day.

Perhaps many of us here today may have similar experiences. Some have lost a loved one, are away from families, have lost a job, have an illness of some sort. We all live in a broken world where wars are still present in some parts of the world, poverty and corruption still exist. It seems that, just like the song, “hate is strong, and mocks the song of peace on earth, good will to men.”

Then, however, Longfellow in his last stanza says,

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
            “God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
            The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
            With peace on earth, good will to men.”

This is actually the message of Christianity. The message of Christmas is that even though this world is broken, even though this world is full of suffering and pain, hate and evil, God is not dead, and He does not sleep. God the Divine Word leaped like a warrior to this earth, and He allowed the brokenness and the hate and the evil and death to overwhelm Him so as to conquer the evil and the hate and the violence and the death. He transformed it so that you and I, in the midst of a world that is broken, in the midst of the world where bells still ring even though cannons still boom, can still have hope. We can still ring those bells in the midst of wars.  We can still ring those bells in the midst of grief. We can still ring those bells when we have been broken. We know that this is the true meaning of Christmas.

Today, the world pauses and holds its breath, for we gather to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. The gospel passage we just heard from Luke tells the most extraordinary story in the simplest of terms. In the humblest of settings, amidst the quiet fields of Bethlehem, God enters our world not as a mighty king, but as a vulnerable child. It is a story of hope, humility, and uncontainable joy. In the silence of the manger, we see the love of God unveiled in its purest form.

The narrative begins with the decree from Caesar Augustus, a reminder of the vast power of the Roman Empire. Yet amid the show of worldly authority, God chooses to reveal His divine power in the stillness of a manger. Joseph and Mary, obedient to the call of God, travel to Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy that the Messiah would be born in the city of David. Consider the mystery of this moment. The King of Kings is born, not in a palace, but in a stable. His crib is a manger. His first visitors are shepherds, simple marginalized people of the time. Through this humility, God shows us His heart. He comes not to overwhelm us with grandeur, but to draw close to us in our everyday lives, in our struggles and simplicity.

When the angel appeared to the shepherds, they were terrified. But the angel’s message was clear: “Do not be afraid, for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”  These words echo across the ages to us today. The birth of Christ is not just a moment in history. It is a message of salvation, a promise that God is with us: Emmanuel.

Notice also the role of the shepherds. They are the first to hear and to respond. They go in haste to find the child and share the good news. In doing so, they become the first evangelists of the Gospel. This reminds us that God often chooses the humble and the unexpected to be His messengers. Perhaps this Christmas, He is calling us to share His love and joy with those around us. The shepherds, the first witnesses of this miracle, were not the powerful or the elite. They were ordinary people, just like many of us. Yet they were chosen to hear the angelic proclamation, “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward men.”  This message reminds us that God’s love is for everyone, regardless of status or circumstance.

The heavenly host proclaims, “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.”  This peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the profound peace that comes from being reconciled with God. It is the peace that heals broken hearts, restores relationships, and offers hope in times of darkness.

This message of peace and Longfellow’s poem resonate profoundly during this Jubilee Year of Hope. Pope Francis has declared a Jubilee Year of Hope in 2025.  In the Pope’s Bull of Indiction, he said, “During the Holy Year, we are called to be tangible signs of hope for those of our brothers and sisters who experience hardships of any kind.”

That hope is born of love and based on the love springing from the purest heart of Jesus upon the cross. “For if, while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, much more surely, having been reconciled, will we be saved by His life.”  (Romans 5:10) That life becomes manifest in our own life of faith, which begins with baptism, develops in openness to God’s grace, and is enlivened by a hope constantly renewed and confirmed by the working of the Holy Spirit.

As we reflect on the birth of Christ, we are reminded that hope is not an abstract idea, but a person, Jesus Christ. The Jubilee Year calls us to renew our trust in God’s promises and to be beacons of hope in a world that often feels weighed down by despair. The light of Bethlehem that shines in the darkness is the same light that we are invited to carry in our lives and communities, illuminating the path toward reconciliation, justice, and joy.

Today, as we gaze upon the Nativity scene, let us open our hearts to the mystery of God’s love. The birth of Jesus is an invitation to encounter God in the ordinary, to embrace humility, and to share His joy with the world. Let us also embrace the call of this Jubilee Year of Hope. This year is an opportunity to live out the message of Christmas in tangible ways by reaching out to those in need, by fostering unity in our families and communities, and by trusting in the transformative power of God’s grace.

Let us remember that the miracle of Christmas is not just that God came to dwell among us, but that He continues to dwell within us. Every Eucharist we celebrate is a reminder of this truth. Christ is Emmanuel, God with us. May this Christmas also remind us that God is not dead, nor does He sleep. Even in the midst of grief, we worship Him. In the midst of grief, we pray. In the midst of grief, we love each other. In the midst of grief, we ring those bells, because we know the truth is that God has become one of us. He’s not dead. He does not sleep.  He’s near, and He loves you and me.

As Christians, we are called to radiate the light of Christ, especially during this joyous season. We are tasked to share the spirit of Christmas with our brothers and sisters and our community. Let us be witnesses of joy. Joy is the hallmark of Christmas. Let us be beacons of hope and positivity, reflecting joy of the incarnation in our words and actions. Let us also reach out to those who may feel lonely and forgotten. A simple invitation, a warm meal, or heartfelt conversation can embody the love of Christ. Also let us not forget to serve the needy. The birth of Jesus in a manger reminds us of God’s special love for the poor and marginalized. Let us be generous in sharing our resources with those in need.  Most importantly, let us live the Gospel. Our faith becomes a powerful testimony when we live it authentically. Let our lives inspire others to seek the peace and love that only Christ can give.

Our Church reminds us today that Christmas is not merely a day, but a way of life. It is an invitation to enter into the mystery of God’s love and to share that love with the world. Let us carry the spirit of Christmas beyond this day, making every moment an opportunity to glorify God and bring His peace to others.

As we leave this holy place today, may the joy of the shepherds, the faith of Mary and Joseph, and the peace of Christ fill your hearts. Let us go forth, as they did, glorifying and praising God for all we have seen and heard. Let the hope of this Jubilee Year inspire us to be agents of God’s love and mercy. May the light of Christ shine through us, so that the world may know the hope born in Bethlehem. Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to all.

Rejoice in God’s Presence and Promise

Third Sunday of Advent
December 15, 2024 — Year C
Readings: Zep 3:14-18a / Is 12 / Phil 4:4-7 / Lk 3:10-18 
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Today, on the Third Sunday of Advent, we celebrate Gaudete Sunday, a day of joy and rejoicing as Christmas draws near.  The rose-colored candle of the Advent wreath, known as the Shepherd’s Candle, reminds us of the joy proclaimed to the shepherds on the night of Jesus’ birth: “Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”  This joy is not merely a fleeting emotion, but a deep and abiding sense of hope rooted in Christ.  Let us explore the joy found in today’s readings and what these readings mean for us in our world today.

The prophet Zephaniah, in our first reading, exhorts the people of Israel to rejoice: “Shout for joy, O daughter Zion!  Sing joyfully, O Israel!”  This is a remarkable declaration, as it follows chapters warning of judgment and exile.  Yet, Zephaniah concludes his prophecy with a vision of restoration.  God promises to be in the midst of His people to renew them in His love and to banish fear and despair.  This reminds us that joy is not the absence of struggle, but the presence of God.  In the hardships of life, whether personal trials or global crises, we can find joy in the assurance that God is with us, rejoicing over us with gladness.  Mother Teresa said, “Joy is an act of love by which you can catch souls.”  When we live in the joy of God’s presence, we share His love with others.

Paul’s letter to the Philippians continues this theme of joy: “Rejoice in the Lord always.  I shall say it again:  rejoice!”  Writing from prison, Paul’s exhortation carries profound weight.  His joy is not tied to external circumstances, but to his relationship with Christ.  He reminds us that the Lord is near and encourages us to bring our needs to God in prayer, trusting that His peace will guard our hearts and minds.  In our current world, filled with anxiety and uncertainty, Paul’s message is particularly relevant.  How often do we let fear and worry rob us of joy?  Yet, as Paul assures us, when we entrust our burdens to God, His peace, which surpasses all understanding, will fill our hearts.  Joy rooted in faith becomes a powerful testimony to others, drawing them toward the hope we have in Christ.

In today’s gospel, John the Baptist calls the people to repentance, emphasizing the tangible expressions of faith:  sharing with those in need, practicing integrity, and avoiding exploitation.  When asked what we should do, John provides practical guidance for living a life aligned with God’s will.  His message is both a challenge and a promise, as he points to the coming Messiah who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire.

There was a little boy, praying and shouting to God in a synagogue, that he might be given ten silver coins because his mother was sick.  It also happened that a tax collector, who was also praying, heard the prayer of the little boy.  The problem was, he had only seven silver coins, not enough to meet the needs of this child.  Regardless, he gave these to the boy by putting them near the altar.  When the boy saw the coins, he said to the Lord, “Thank you Lord for giving me the coins, but next time, don’t show the tax collector.  I’m sure he got the other three coins.”

St. John shows us that we should be honest in our way of life, that we should not try to take advantage of others.  He tells us that even if we see that someone is trying to take advantage of us, even when by doing good, we will be thought of as fools, we should still share.  We should not be discouraged; we should always be willing to continue to help others.

John’s call to action reminds us that true joy comes, not from self-centered pursuits, but from living in love and service to others.  In a world often characterized by greed and division, this gospel invites us to embody the spirit of generosity and justice.  As Mother Teresa beautifully put it, “A joyful heart is the inevitable result of a heart burning with love.”  When we love as Christ loves, our joy becomes a light for those in darkness. As we reflect on the theme of joy this Gaudete Sunday, we are reminded that true joy is not found in our circumstances, but in our trust in and surrender to God.

There is a story of the life of Blessed Chiara Badano, a young Italian girl who offers a profound witness to this truth.  Born in 1971, Chiara grew up as an ordinary teenager who loved her family, friends, and sports.  Her life took a dramatic turn, however, when she was diagnosed with bone cancer at the age of 17.  While many would understandably despair, Chiara’s faith allowed her to transform her suffering into a profound encounter with Christ.  Even as her body weakened and her pain became unbearable, Chiara radiated an inner joy that inspired everyone around her.  She embraced her illness as a way to unite her suffering with Jesus, often saying, “If this is what you want, Jesus, so do I.”  Chiara never lost her smile and insisted that her room be filled with light and love, as she wanted to bring hope to her visitors.  She believed that her suffering was a way to serve others spiritually and her faith only grew stronger.  Chiara’s life was a living testimony to what St. Paul teaches, “Rejoice in the Lord always.”  Her joy, rooted in her relationship with Christ, reminds us that true joy is found, not in avoiding hardship, but in allowing God’s love to transform it.

As Catholics preparing to celebrate Christmas, this gospel challenges us to examine how we are living our faith in practical ways.  John’s instructions: to give generously, act justly, and avoid greed, reflect the heart of the Christmas message, God’s love made manifest in the gift of His Son.  During this Advent season, we are reminded that Christ’s coming calls us to transformation.  Just as the shepherds shared the good news with others after encountering Jesus, we, too, are called to be a witness to His love through our actions.  Moreover, the image of Jesus baptizing with the Holy Spirit and fire speaks to the renewal and purification that Christ’s coming brings.  Christmas is not merely a commemoration of a past event, but an invitation to allow Christ to transform our lives today.  The joy of the season lies in aligning our hearts with His, living out the values of compassion, justice, and generosity.

The common message in today’s readings is the call to rejoice because of God’s presence and promise.  This joy is deeply connected to trust in God, prayer, and acts of love.  It is a joy that sustains us through trials and empowers us to be agents of hope and transformation in the world.  In our contemporary world, marked by conflict, economic disparity, and environmental crises, today’s message is a beacon of hope.  Our Church invites us today to trust in God’s plan for restoration.  Like the Philippians, we are called to bring our worries to God and embrace His peace.  Like the crowds in the gospel, we are challenged to live out our faith in practical ways, sharing joy through acts of love and justice.  As we light the pink candle of the Advent wreath, let is remind us of the joy that Christ’s coming brings to our hearts and to the world.  May we, like the shepherds, share this joy with others, proclaiming the good news of God’s love through our words and actions.  Let us rejoice always, for the Lord is near.

Active Preparation

First Sunday of Advent
December 1, 2024 — Year C
Readings: Jer 33:14-16 / Ps 25 / 1 Thes 3:12–4:2 / Lk 21:25-28, 34-36
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Today is the first Sunday of Advent.  Advent marks the beginning of a new liturgical calendar, a new beginning for us and for the family of the Church.  It is a time of hope, of preparation, and of anticipation of two comings of Christ – His birth in Bethlehem and His glorious return at the end of time.  These weeks before Christmas are rather a spiritual renewal, where we are called to wake up from spiritual complacency and return our hearts to the Lord.  As Pope Saint John Paul II reminds us, “Do not be afraid.  Open wide the doors to Christ.”

The Advent season is a season of hope and courage as we prepare to encounter Christ anew, in our lives, our world, and in eternity.  We do not pretend that Advent is without joy.  On the contrary, it is a season of joyful hope, because it points us to Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of all our longing.  Advent is a season to reorient our lives to this fulfillment, living with the expectation of His presence both now and in the future.

The readings for this first Sunday of Advent invite us to prepare with vigilance, hope, and faith.  From Jeremiah, we hear God’s promise to send a just and righteous savior to lead His people.  Paul encourages the Thessalonians to increase in love and holiness, as they await the coming of the Lord.  In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus warns of cosmic signs and urges us to stay alert and prayerful, so that we may stand firm before Him.

The prophet Jeremiah speaks of God’s promise of a savior who will spring from the line of David.  This righteous branch will establish justice and integrity in the land, fulfilling God’s covenant with His people. In Jeremiah’s time, the people of Judah faced turmoil and exile.  This promise of restoration gave them hope amidst despair.  For us today, it points to the coming of Christ, both in His incarnation and at the end of time.  Christ is the fulfillment of God’s promise, the King of justice and peace, who brings salvation to all who trust in Him.  Jeremiah reminds us that God’s plans never fail.  Advent invites us to anchor our hope in this promise and to live as citizens of His kingdom, marked by justice and righteousness.

In our second reading today, Paul writes to the Thessalonians, urging them to abound in love for one another and to live lives pleasing to God.  He encourages them to prepare for the coming of the Lord by growing in holiness and love.  This reading highlights an important aspect of Advent.  Advent is not just a preparation about waiting, but about action.  Love is at the heart of this preparation.  Paul challenges us to reflect on our relationships with God and with others, and to increase in love and virtue.

In our current world, where individualism often overshadows community, Paul’s words are a powerful reminder of our call to be witnesses of God’s love.  Advent is a time to examine our hearts and align our lives with God’s will, striving for holiness as we await Christ’s return.

In the gospel, Jesus speaks of cosmic signs and the distress of nations as signs of His return.  While the apocalyptic images may evoke fear, Jesus tells us to stand up and raise our heads, because our redemption is drawing near.  This emphasizes vigilance and hope.  The signs of the times are not meant to paralyze us with fear, but to awaken us to the reality of Christ’s kingdom.  Jesus warns against becoming distracted by the anxieties and pleasures of life, urging us instead to stay awake and prayerful.

We can see these signs in the challenges that our world faces:  environmental crises, social unrest, and personal struggles.  Yet, Jesus calls us to hope and persevere.  Advent reminds us to keep our eyes on Christ, the source of our redemption, and to live each day with faith and trust in His promises.

The overall message of today’s readings is the call to anticipation with active preparation.  God’s promises are trustworthy, and we are called to respond by living lives that reflect His kingdom.  Advent is not passive waiting. It is a dynamic journey of hope and renewal.  Advent challenges us to actively prepare for Christ’s coming, not just through external practices, but through an internal transformation.  It is a time to strengthen our faith, deepen our love, and root our hope in the Savior who is both near and yet to come.

As we reflect on these readings, we see how profoundly they speak to our current circumstances.  The world is marked by uncertainty, division, and anxiety.  Whether it be political tensions, climate crisis, or personal struggles, the gospel’s imagery of roaring seas and distressed nations feels strikingly relevant.  But Jesus does not leave us in despair. His words are a beacon: “When these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads, because your redemption is at hand.” (Luke 21:28)

This message of hope reminds us that we are not alone in the storms of life.  God’s promises endure.  Jeremiah’s prophecy of a savior assures us that God remains faithful, even when circumstances seem bleak.  As Catholics, we are called to bring this hope into the world through our actions, reflecting God’s justice, mercy, and love.  Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians offers practical advice for living out this hope: “May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all.”  (1 Thes 3:12)

In a world often characterized by self-interest, Advent challenges us to live counter-culturally, loving and serving others as Christ loves us.  This is the essence of Advent preparation, not just lighting candles or singing hymns, but becoming living witnesses of the Gospel.  Advent is not just a countdown to Christmas. It is a sacred time to renew our hearts and refocus on what truly matters.  It reminds us that Christ’s coming changes everything.  We are called to live in hope and readiness, embracing His light in a world that desperately needs it.

As we light the first candle in our Advent wreath, let it remind us of the light of Christ breaking into darkness.  Let us leave this season with hearts full of hope, ready to welcome the Savior not only in the manger but in our daily lives and at the end of time.  May we, like the vigilant servants in the gospel, stand ready and faithful, with our hearts fixed on the One who is to come.  Let us ask the Lord to awaken our hearts this Advent and help us to prepare with joyful anticipation for His coming.  May His light shine in our lives and through us into the world.