True Wealth

Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
October 13, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Wis 7:7-11 / Ps 90 / Heb 4:12-13 / Mk 17-30
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Today’s readings invite us to reflect on the deep and challenging call to follow Christ, especially when it comes to the things we value most in life.

We begin with the first reading, from the book of Wisdom, where King Solomon prays for wisdom.  He says, “I prayed, and prudence was given me.  I pleaded and the spirit of wisdom came to me.  I preferred her to scepter and throne.” (Wis 7:7-8)

Solomon, though a king with great wealth, acknowledges that true wisdom is far more valuable than gold or riches.  It is wisdom that leads us to God and guides our decisions toward the ultimate good.

The second reading, from Paul’s letter to the Hebrews, also emphasizes the power of God’s word: “Indeed, the word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword.” (Hebrews 4:12) God’s word penetrates our hearts, revealing our deepest desires, intentions, and motivations.  It uncovers what is truly important and what might be holding us back from fully embracing the Gospel.  It is a call to introspection and transformation.

In today’s gospel from Mark, we encounter the story of the rich young man who approaches Jesus and asks, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” (Mk 10:17) Jesus responds by listing the commandments, but the young man, who has kept these from his youth, still senses that something is lacking.  Jesus tells him, “Go. Sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven.  Then come follow Me.”  (Mk 10:21) This invitation is too difficult for the young man, who leaves in sorrow because he had many possessions.

This gospel challenges us to ask ourselves, what do we truly value in life?  Are there things, relationships, or ambitions that we are holding onto more tightly than our relationship with Christ?  Jesus’ invitation to the rich young man is not about condemning wealth or success, but about removing whatever obstacle that prevents us from fully following Him.  For some, it might be wealth, but for others, it might be pride, ambition, or even fear of change.

Pope Francis, in his Apostolic Exhortation, “Evangelii Gaudium,” speaks to this directly: “The joy of the gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus…a joy ever new, a joy which is shared.”  The young man in the gospel did not experience this joy because his heart was weighed down by his possessions.  Pope Francis reminds us that true joy, lasting joy, comes only when we are willing to let go of our attachments and follow Jesus with a free and open heart.

An Argentinian entrepreneur, Enrique Shaw, who is on the path to sainthood, exemplifies how one can balance wealth with a deep commitment to faith and social responsibility.  Shaw was a successful businessman, but he did not let his prosperity distance him from the needs of his workers or his faith.  He founded a Christian workers association promoting fair wages and showed he cared deeply for the wellbeing of his employees.  During a financial crisis, instead of laying off his workers, he found ways to keep them employed, showing that his wealth was a means to serve others rather than serving himself.

Shaw’s life echoes the message of the gospel.  True wealth is found in following Christ and using what we have to serve others.  Like the rich young man, we are invited to examine our attachment to material things and ask whether we can let them go to follow Christ more fully.  Unlike the young man, Shaw shows us that it is possible to live generously, using our resources to reflect God’s love in the world.

In both the gospel and Shaw’s example, we see that it is not the possession of wealth, but how we use it and what we prioritize, that defines our discipleship.  Jesus calls us to place our trust, not in earthly treasures, but in the promise of eternal life.

Our readings today first remind us that we must seek wisdom like Solomon.  We should pray for the wisdom to discern what is truly important in our lives.  In a world that constantly pushes us toward material success and fleeting pleasures, we need wisdom to choose what is eternal, to value relationships over riches, and to seek God’s will above all else.

Second, we need to examine our attachments.  Are there things that we hold dear that might be hindering our relationship with God?  This could be our career, our possessions, our status, or even our comfort zones.  Jesus challenges us, like the rich young man, to let go of whatever prevents us from fully embracing the Gospel.

Furthermore, we are called to share our blessings.  Jesus’ invitation to give to the poor is a reminder that the blessings we have received are not meant to be hoarded but shared.  Whether it is material wealth, time, or talents, we are called to be generous and to use what we have to serve others, especially the poor and marginalized.

Finally, we must respond with joy.  The joy of the Gospel is something we are called to live and share.  When we place our trust in God and follow Christ, we experience a deep and lasting joy that no material possession can provide.  It is the joy of knowing that we are loved by God and that we are living out His plan for our lives.

Saint Padre Pio said, “In our spiritual life, he who does not advance goes backward.  It happens, as with a boat, which always must go ahead.  If it stands still, the wind will blow it back.”  This statement powerfully complements the message from today’s readings, emphasizing the necessity of continual growth in our relationship with God.  When we remain stagnant in our faith, we avoid that necessary challenge.  The rich young man was living a comfortable faith, but Jesus called him to something deeper.  Padre Pio’s words remind us that there is no neutral ground in our spiritual life.  We are either progressing toward God or being pushed backward by the forces of complacency, fear, and attachment.

In our lives, this means daily striving to deepen our relationship with Christ, continuously letting go of whatever holds us back and trusting in God’s wisdom to guide us forward.  If we do not advance, the spiritual whims of destruction, temptation, or worldly attachments will slowly pull us away from the path to eternal life.  Just as a boat must constantly move against the current, so too, must we always seek to grow closer to God.

As we reflect on today’s readings, let us ask for the grace to seek true wisdom, to examine our attachments, to be generous with our blessings, and to follow Christ with joyful hearts.  May we, unlike the rich young man, accept the Lord’s invitation with faith and courage, trusting that the treasure He offers us in heaven is far greater than anything this world can give.

Invite God Into Your Relationships

Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
October 6, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Gn 2:18-24 / Ps 128 / Heb 2:9-11 / Mk 10:2-16
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Today’s readings show us a common theme, which is the sanctity and unity of marriage rooted in God’s divine plan for humanity.  They also highlight the importance of relationships, God’s original plan for marriage, particularly the covenant of marriage, and how God is central to forming and sustaining those bonds.

The first reading, from the book of Genesis, helps to recall the main idea that marriage is the creation of God.  When God was forming man, He said, “It is not good for man to be alone.”  So, He made a woman to be with him and join him.  This is not an affiliation or mutual understanding between individuals.  It is a sacred covenant, established by God Himself.  Marital affection is supposed to resemble the love of God toward humanity:  loyal, productive, and eternal.

Today we have a culture that does not sanctify marriage and often questions its indissolubility.  The divorce rates are high, and the culture is learning to shift towards the thought of marriage as something that can be undone if it becomes uncomfortable.  This is far from what Jesus expects from all of us.  Jesus calls us to a higher standard.  He reminds us that marriage is a reflection of God’s covenant, which is unbreakable.

Venerable Fulton Sheen, in his wisdom once said, “It takes three to make love, not two:  you, your spouse, and God. Without God, people only succeed in bringing out the worst in one another.  Lovers with nothing else to do but love each other soon find there is nothing else.  Without a central loyalty, life is unfinished.”

Sheen’s statement is a powerful reminder that true love is not just a bond between two people, but a bond that includes God.  When we place God in the center of our lives and in the center of our marriage, He sustains it, nurtures it, and strengthens it.  If God is absent, however, marriage becomes fragile and can easily fracture under the pressures of life.  As Sheen points out, without God the relationship becomes empty, and people begin to bring out the worst in each other rather than the best.

This is why it is so essential for couples to keep God at the center of their lives, not just at the wedding ceremony, but throughout their marriage.   Praying together, seeking God’s guidance, and entrusting the relationship to His care, make all the difference.  The sacrament of marriage is not just about romantic love, but about a shared mission to reflect God’s love to each other and to the world.

In the second reading, we hear that Jesus was made a little lower than the angels and became like us in all things, suffered with us and triumphed over death to bring us salvation.  The best form of love is when one is willing to give himself over to protecting, providing, and caring for another person.  That is Jesus’ act of self-giving on behalf of humanity.  Marriage, also, requires such a love:  the love that is self-giving, the love which seeks the good of the other.  This is the love required from us in regard to our marriages, families, and friendships.  It is a love that follows the example of Christ, the greatest love that was ever demonstrated.

In order to understand the relationship between marriage and divorce, Jesus talks about it in today’s gospel.  Pharisees approach Jesus to test Him, by asking what He says about the matter of divorce between a man and his wife.  Jesus, however, does not just answer the question on the surface.  Instead, He drills down to the fundamentals, to the basic plan of creation, to the institution of marriage.

He says, “From the beginning of creation, God made them male and female.  The two shall become one flesh.  Hence, they are no more two, but one and the same.  What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate” (Mk 10:6-9).  This teaching may not be easy to comprehend in the world we live in now that presents relationships based on conditions that are temporary.  Still, Jesus invites us to look at marriage with faith, as a joining in God’s creative act.  In marriage, two people merge into one, and therefore reflect unity, vowed commitment, and reciprocal self-giving.

Just as God loved us first with an unconditional, full, and lifelong love, so too is marriage intended to be an unswerving love.  But Jesus doesn’t stop with the ideal.  He acknowledges human weakness and the brokenness that can enter into relationships.  The law of Moses allowed for divorce because of the hardness of hearts, but Jesus invites us to a higher calling, one rooted in forgiveness, patience, and the healing grace of God.

We are reminded that, while God’s design for marriage is beautiful, living it requires grace.  It is not easy, but with God’s help, married couples can live their vocation with joy and fidelity, even in the face of difficulties.

After this challenging discourse, the gospel takes on a new subject, which is children.  Jesus says, “Let the little children come to Me.  Do not stop them, for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs” (Mark 10:14).  This passage is a word of comfort to those who have childlike faith, faith being that which is simple and innocent, without doubt.  The combination of marriage and children in this gospel is not accidental.  It serves as a reminder that the values of humility, trust, and innocence are essential in all relationships.  Like the child who needs the parents, we too, are called to go to God to offer our struggles, our brokenness, and our hopes.

Let us remember, whether we are married or not, that we are called to live out the same principles of love and self-sacrifice in our relationships.  We must continually invite God into our relationships.  Take time to pray together as a couple or as a family, asking for His grace and guidance.

For those who are married, today’s gospel is a call to reflect on the gift of your marriage.  Are you nurturing the love and unity between you and your spouse?  How can you invite Christ into the heart of your relationship to strengthen and sustain it?

For those who are not married, this is an opportunity to consider how you are living out your relationships with your family, friends, and community.  Do you approach them with the faithfulness and love that Jesus calls us to?

Finally, the image of a child is a reminder to all of us to approach God with humility and trust, recognizing that in Him we can find the strength to live out the radical call to love in both marriage and all other aspects of life.  Let us pray for the grace to model our lives on Christ’s example of love, faithfulness, and mercy, in marriage and every other relationship we hold dear.  May we always remain like children before God, open to His will and eager to receive His blessing.

Embrace the Cross

Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
September 15, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Is 50:5-9a / Ps 116 / Jas 2:14-18 / Mk 8:27-35
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

This Sunday’s readings show us how to live our faith, regardless of how the world is treating us.  The readings then reveal to us how to put our faith into action and how our faith can give us the strength to carry the cross in our lives, not to suffer, but to be a symbol of love.

In the first reading, from the prophet Isaiah, we hear the suffering servant.  He speaks about his suffering and persecution but remains obedient to the Lord.  He relies on God’s assistance while others attack him and hurl abuse at him.  This passage refers to Christ as the eventual suffering servant, yet this passage also teaches us a lesson.  The example of Isaiah shows us in our lives today, as we are exposed to situations when we are limited in our opportunities, misjudged, or even persecuted for our beliefs, like the suffering servant, that we should have faith in God and remain committed to Him even in times of suffering.

Most of us have heard the poem, or listened to the song version, Footprints in the Sand.  But allow me to read it to you today.

Footprints in the Sand.

One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.

Scenes from my life flashed across the sky.

In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.

Sometimes there were two sets of footprints; other times there was only one.

During the low periods of my life,
I could see only one set of footprints.

So, I said to the Lord,

“You promised me, Lord,
that You would walk with me always.

Why, when I have needed you most, have you not been there for me?”

The Lord replied, “The times when you have seen only one set of footprints, my child,
are when I carried you.”

It may seem that in our difficult times, we only see our footsteps, as if we are walking alone, and no one is helping us.  But in fact, it isn’t even our footsteps, but the Lord’s.  He’s been carrying us all along.  Whenever we go through some challenges in our lives, we can be assured that Jesus has gone through this path before us.  And that He still walks with us today.

The second reading, from James, highlights that faith without works is pointless.  James also teaches us that faith without works is dead, which means that we need to engage the world with our faith.  Even if we claim that we have faith, it is useless if we do not feed the hungry.  He gives us the illustration of a brother or sister who is hungry or poorly clothed, and, instead of feeding them or dressing them, one will just say to them, “Go in peace, and keep warm and well fed.”

Today there is so much suffering:  poverty, loneliness, lack of faith, and we cannot remain passive.  Jesus is asking us to be His arms and legs; to extend a hand and help our fellow brothers and sisters.  Thus, taking up our cross means living out the faith that can be seen to be real and active as it is expressed in love for the neighbor.

In today’s gospel, Jesus asks his disciples a pivotal question.  The question, “Who do you say that I am?” is the very question of our Christian faith.  Indeed, it is not a matter that just Peter and the disciples have to answer.  It is a question Jesus poses to each one of us.  The question, Who do you say that I am? determines how we live, what we do, and most importantly, how we relate to God.

Peter confidently replies, “You are the Christ.”  But when Jesus tells the disciples that being the Christ involves suffering, rejection, and death, Peter rebukes Him.  Everyone seems to have their own image of the Messiah.  It is not what they expected.  Jesus’ response struck Peter with these stern words: “Get behind me, Satan.  For you are not thinking as God does, but as human beings do.”  This is the message that Jesus wants to convey to His disciples, as well as to all of us who follow Him.

The cross:  It means self-sacrifice; picking up one’s cross and following Him.  The cross is closely connected to our identity as Christians.  It is not just a tool of pain and agony, but also a sign of love, sacrifice, and triumph.  Jesus was not forced to bear the cross, but He chose to do so because of our salvation, and to adopt us as God’s sons and daughters.  But equally as important is the call to take up our own cross by Jesus.

We can ask ourselves: “What does it mean for me to bear my cross today?”  The cross can come in different shapes and sizes in our daily lives.  It could be a challenging friendship, a disease, a family’s financial problem, or the things that one has to give up for the family.  It is, for example, defending what we believe in or helping others when it is not very comfortable to do so.  In whatever form we find ourselves, the cross calls for faith and the assurance that Christ is with us.

According to St. Thomas Aquinas, to love is to will the good of the other.  Taking up our cross means living this truth; choosing to love in the face of need, choosing the good of others over our own comfort, and trusting in God’s providence.

Today our Church compels us to be people of faith and to live it in concrete ways.  Let us ask ourselves the question that Jesus asked:  Who do you say that I am?  Do we really acknowledge Him as the Christ, the one who came to suffer, die, and rise for us?  If we do, then we’re being asked to follow Him and to carry our own crosses.  It may include forgiving, when one feels that forgiving others is difficult; serving others and defending the truth, even if it comes at a personal loss.  It means bringing the spirit of the Lord into every decision and action we take in our lives in order to become witnesses of the love of Christ.

In the world that we live in today, it is very tempting to think like Peter in our gospel, who wants an easy and comfortable life with Christ but without the price of the cross.  But Jesus wants more from us.  He calls us to deny ourselves, to embrace the cross, and to find true life in Him.

As we continue our Mass today, let us reflect on how we can live out our faith more fully.  How can we take up our crosses with greater love and trust?  How can we put our faith into action, by serving those around us?  May the grace of the Eucharist strengthen us to follow Christ more closely, to love as He loves, and to carry our crosses with courage and hope.

The Essence of True Faith

Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time
September 1, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Dt 4:1-2, 6-8 / Ps 15 / Jas 1:17-18, 21b-22, 27 / Mk 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the essence of true faith and how we live it out in our daily lives.  The common thread running through these scriptures is the call to authenticity: living out our faith not merely through external observances but from a place of deep inner conviction and transformation.

In our first reading, we embrace the wisdom of God’s law. Moses emphasizes the importance of observing God’s commandments. These laws are not just rules to follow. They are a source of wisdom and a means of maintaining a close relationship with God. Moses reminds the Israelites that, by living according to God’s statutes, they demonstrate their closeness to God and their wisdom to the nations.

We can observe that nowadays secular values often dominate. We are called to uphold the wisdom of God’s teachings. These commandments are not burdens but guides to living a life that reflects God’s love and justice. We must ask ourselves: Do we see God’s laws as mere restrictions, or do we recognize them as a pathway to true freedom and wisdom? By living according to these teachings, we become witnesses to God’s presence in the world. Showing others the beauty of a life lived in harmony with divine wisdom.

James, in our second reading, reminds us that every good gift comes from God and that we are to respond to these gifts by being doers of the word.  It is not enough to listen to the teachings of Christ. We must put them into practice. James gives us a clear image of what this looks like: caring for those in need and keeping ourselves pure from the corrupting influences of the world.

In a world where it is easy to hear the word without allowing it to transform our lives, James challenges us to live out our faith in concrete actions. Being Christians is not about what we say or even what we believe in our hearts. It is about what we do. How do we care for the marginalized, the vulnerable, and those in need? Are we willing to live out our faith in ways that might be uncomfortable or challenging? This reading encourages us to look at our lives and ask, are we truly living as doers of the word? Or have we become complacent, content with merely hearing and not acting?

In today’s gospel, we see a confrontation between Jesus and the Pharisees over the issue of ritual purity. The Pharisees, along with some Scribes, questioned Jesus why His disciples eat with unwashed hands, which, according to Jewish tradition made them unclean.

Jesus’ response goes beyond the surface of the ritual and delves into the heart of what true purity and holiness are about. His words challenge us to reflect on the authenticity of our faith and the motivations behind our religious practices.

There is a story about an old Jewish rabbi who was in a Roman prison. Rabbi Akiba was on a minimal ration of good and water. It was just enough for him to survive. One of the rabbi’s students asked the warden if he could bring in more water for the rabbi. The warden agreed. As time passed, the rabbi grew weaker and weaker. Finally, it became necessary to call a doctor. The old man’s problem was diagnosed as dehydration.

The doctor’s report confused prison officials. They could not understand how the rabbi could be dehydrated. He already had enough supply of water to drink. The guard was told to watch the old man closely to see what he was doing with his water. It was then that the mystery was solved. The guards discovered that the rabbi was using almost all his water to perform religious ritual washings before he prayed and before he ate. As a result, he had little water left to drink.

In the heart of the matter, in the gospel, Jesus challenges the Pharisees and Scribes who focus on external rituals while neglecting the more important matters of the heart. Jesus makes it clear that true defilement not from external sources but from within, from the evil thoughts and desires that reside in the heart. This teaching cuts to the core of what it means to live a life of faith. It is not about appearances but about the purity of our intentions and actions.

Rabbi Akiba’s story helps us to understand today’s gospel. It helps us to understand also why the Jewish leaders are surprised when they see Jesus’ disciples eat without performing the ritual of washing, which they are accustomed to do before eating their meal. The Lord uses their criticism to point out what is essential, and this essential is the heart of morality. The heart of morality is no other than the heart of a person.

The Pharisees and Scribes were known for their strict observance of the law, particularly the external rituals that were meant to signify cleanliness and holiness. However, Jesus exposes the danger of adhering to rituals without understanding their true purpose. The problem wasn’t the washing of hands itself but the elevation of the tradition above the commandment of God. Jesus quotes Isaiah saying, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. In vain do they worship me, teaching human precepts as doctrines.”

This warning is not just for the Pharisees but for all of us. We must ask ourselves, are our religious practices, our prayers, our Mass attendance, our acts of charity done out of genuine love for God and neighbor? Or have they become mere routine, empty of meaning? We need to be vigilant that our external expressions of faith are always rooted in a heart that seeks to love and serve God.

Jesus’ message in today’s gospel calls us to authentic faith and worship. God desires a relationship with us that goes beyond mere observance of the rules. He wants our hearts. Authentic worship is not just about what we do or say but about who we are in the depths of our being. It’s about the heart transformed by God’s love, a heart that seeks to love God and neighbor with sincerity and humility.

The readings for this Sunday challenge us to move beyond superficial expressions of faith and to embrace a deeper, more authentic relationship with God. By observing God’s commandments, being doers of the word, and focusing on the purity of our hearts, we can live out our faith in a way that truly honors God and reflects His love to the world.

As we go about our lives, let us remember that true faith is lived out in actions that flow from a heart transformed by God’s love. Let us commit to being people who not only hear the word, but embody it, allowing our faith to be a source of life, wisdom, and grace in a world that so desperately needs it.

May Jesus Christ be praised.

Eucharistic Revival – Spiritual Sustenance

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
August 18, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Prv 9:1-6 / Ps 34 / Eph 5:15-20 / Jn 6:51-58
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

In today’s readings we are invited to a feast: a feast of wisdom, a feast of the spirit, and most profoundly, a feast of light itself in the Eucharist. The theme running through the scriptures is nourishment: not just physical but spiritual, and the choices we make in seeking what truly sustains us.

Our first reading opens with the image of Wisdom, personified as a woman who has prepared a great banquet. She calls out to the simple, the unwise, inviting them to leave behind their foolish ways and dine at her table. This invitation is an echo of something deeper, an invitation to a life that is not merely about survival, but about living with purpose, intention, and understanding.

In his letter to the Ephesians, Saint Paul warns us to live wisely, to make the most of our time, and to be filled with the Spirit rather than indulging in things that dull our senses or lead us astray. This call to wisdom is a call to discernment, to constantly seek what is good, true, and life giving.

Then we come to our gospel from John, where Jesus offers us the ultimate sustenance, Himself. “I am the bread that came down from Heaven,” He says. Here, Jesus is not just offering us wisdom or spiritual insight; He is offering us His very self.

The Eucharist, this Bread of Life, is not a symbol, it is Christ Himself we receive to nourish our souls. When Jesus speaks of giving His flesh for the life of the world, He’s not talking about a symbolic gesture, He’s pointing directly to the Eucharist, the sacrament in which we participate in His sacrifice, and receive His very body and blood. This is not merely a ritual or a remembrance, but a true encounter with Christ himself.

Through the Eucharist, we are invited to share in the divine life to be united intimately with Jesus. The words of Jesus, “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life,” reminds us that the Eucharist is not a one-time event; it is a continuous invitation to live in communion with Him. Each time we receive the Eucharist, we are nourished spiritually, strengthened in our faith, and reminded of our call to live as disciples.

This passage also challenges us to reflect on the mystery of the Eucharist. How often do we approach the altar with full awareness of the incredible gift we are about to receive? Do we truly understand that in the Eucharist, we are not just receiving bread and wine, but the very life of Christ? Saint Augustine once said, “Our hearts are restless until they rest in you, O Lord.” This restlessness often drives us to seek fulfillment in all the wrong places through material wealth, fleeting pleasures, or the pursuit of success at the expense of our relationships. But today’s readings remind us that true fulfillment comes from feeding on the wisdom of God, living in the Spirit, and most importantly, receiving the bread of life in the Eucharist.

Let me share with you the inspiring story of a young Italian woman who exemplified what it means to live wisely and in the Spirit. Chiara faced immense challenges during her life, including the loss of two children shortly after their births. Despite these hardships, Chiara and her husband Enrico continued to trust in God’s plan. When Chiara became pregnant with her third child, she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. Choosing to postpone her treatment to protect her unborn son, she lived her final months fully aware of the consequences but filled with peace and joy in the Lord. She often said, “We are born to die, but we die to be born again into eternal life.”

Chiara died at noon on June 13, 2012, after she said her goodbyes to her family and friends. One by one, she told everyone, “I love you.” On July 2, 2018, her beatification process was opened in Rome, naming Chiara Corbella Petrillo as a servant of God.

Chiara’s life is a testament to living out the wisdom of God, even in the face of suffering. She chose the bread of life over everything else, prioritizing her spiritual nourishment and trusting completely in God’s love. Her story challenges us to examine our own lives and the choices we make. Are we living wisely, making the most of the time we have, and seeking the true sustenance that only Christ can provide? In our modern world we are constantly tempted by things that offer temporary satisfaction but leave us spiritually hungry. But like Chiara, we are called to seek what sustains us.

When we prioritize our spiritual nourishment by spending time in prayer, immersing ourselves in scripture, and regularly participating in the Eucharist, we align ourselves with the wisdom of God.

There are a lot of distractions nowadays. It is easy to neglect our spiritual lives. Just as we need physical food to sustain our bodies, we need spiritual nourishment to sustain our souls. This means making time for prayer, reading scripture, and participating in the Eucharist regularly. Let us set aside specific times each day for prayer and reflection. Attend mass, not just on Sundays, but also during the week, when possible, to receive the Eucharist more frequently.

Our readings today also invite us to partake in the banquet of wisdom, which means seeking God’s guidance in our daily decisions. Wisdom is not just about knowledge; it is about applying that knowledge in a way that leads to a good and virtuous life. Before making decisions, especially significant ones, let us pause to pray and ask for God’s wisdom. Let us reflect on whether our choices are leading us closer to God or away from Him. Today, let us ask ourselves, what am I feeding my soul? Am I seeking the bread of life that He offers eternal nourishment? Or am I filling myself with things that leave me empty? Let us turn to the wisdom of the Church, the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the living presence of Christ in the Eucharist to nourish and sustain us on our journey of faith.

Jesus reminds us that true satisfaction comes from a deeper source. The Eucharist is the food that sustains us on our spiritual journey, giving us the grace to overcome the challenges of life and remain faithful to His teachings.

As we continue our Mass today, let us approach the Eucharist with a heart full of gratitude and reverence, recognizing the profound love that God has for each of us. Let us allow this encounter with Christ to transform us so that we may become living witnesses of His presence in the world. Let us recognize the true value of the Eucharist and live each day with the wisdom and intention that leads us to eternal life. By integrating these teachings into our lives, we become more attuned to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, making choices that lead us to live fully in the presence of God, nourished by His wisdom and the Bread of Life.

May Jesus Christ be praised.

The Lord Has Done Great Things for Me

Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
August 15, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Rv 11:19A; 12:1-6A, 10AB / Ps 45 / 1 Cor 15:20-27 / Lk 1:39-56
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary into heaven.  The Church teaches us that Mary is assumed into heaven, body and soul.  Because of this doctrine, or dogma, many of our brothers and sisters say, “Oh, that’s just made up by the Church leaders.”  But let us realize that this is a product of deep prayer and reflection.

Sometimes they will tell us, “You Catholics equate Mary to God.”  “You treat her like God.”  Or, “You exalt Mary too much.”

Let us not forget what St. Maximilian Kolbe advised us.  He said, “Do not be afraid to love Mary too much, because you can never love her more than Jesus did.”  In fact, it is not us, nor the Church leaders, who exalted Mary too much first.  It is the scripture.  While not in our gospel today, there is a passage in the same book and chapter:  Luke 1:28.  The angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and said, “Hail Mary – rejoice Mary — you are full of grace.”  Mary, as the new Eve, is full of grace, not sin.  That was the angel who said that, and not any Church leaders.   The scripture, recorded scripture, stated that Mary, as the new Eve, is full of grace.

Because of Eve’s disobedience to God’s will, sin and death entered the world.  But when Mary obeyed God’s will, heaven became wide open again.  That’s the difference between the new Eve and the old Eve. When Mary came, it opened heaven again.  When Mary came, it was not sin and death that entered the world, but rather salvation and eternal life that become our destination while we are here on earth.

That’s why, from the very beginning, even in our first reading for today, in the Book of Revelation, it says, “God’s temple in heaven was open and the ark of His covenant could be seen in the temple.”  The ark of the covenant that was mentioned here is Mary herself.  Mary is the ark, and Jesus is the new covenant.  That covenant is based on that ark.  God put His son, Jesus, in her womb.  That’s why when we pray the litany, “the ark of the covenant” refers to Mary.

That’s why from the very beginning of the conception of Mary, the Immaculate Conception, she was already preserved from the contagion of original sin.  Mary was sinless.  That’s why Mary never experienced death.  What is the effect of sin?  Death.  That’s why Mary never experienced death.  And this is the feast that we celebrate today:  Mary’s Assumption into heaven, body and soul.

But what can we learn from our gospel today, as we celebrate feast of the Assumption of Mary into Heaven?  There were two important things of which Mary showed us great examples.

First, Mary was a person who was willing to look after the needs of others.  When Mary heard that she would conceive Jesus, and she learned that Elizabeth was also pregnant, do you know what Mary did?  She went in haste to Judah.  That was a long and difficult journey, because she traveled almost one hundred miles.  Nobody told Mary to go to Elizabeth.  The angel didn’t say, “Go to visit your cousin, Elizabeth, because she needs your help.”  Mary was one of those people who not only knows how to help, but is able to anticipate the needs of others.  That’s the lesson that we can learn from the Blessed Virgin Mary.

I know that many of us are willing to help others.  The problem is that we may wait until we are asked.  The sad thing is that sometimes we wait until they beg us to help them.  Sadly, sometimes we only offer our help when it is too late:  when a person is dead, or their life is ruined.  That’s when we finally offer help.

The lesson we can learn from our gospel today is that we need to be like Mary, who knows how to anticipate the needs of her brothers and sisters.  We need to be proactive.  We need to always see the needs of others.  That is the essence of “our brother’s keeper.”  If we are our brother’s or our sister’s keeper, then we don’t wait until they ask us to help them.  Go ahead, if you see there is a need; just help others.

That’s the lesson we can learn from Mary.  She doesn’t wait for her cousin to ask her, “Mary, please come and help me.”  She just sees the need and goes in haste to help Elizabeth.

The second thing we can learn from our gospel today is, as Mary showed us, in everything that we receive or achieve in this life, we give praise, glory, and honor to God.  In our gospel, Mary was being praised, and not only in our gospel, but also in the first chapter of St. Luke.  Mary was praised by the angel and by Elizabeth.  The angel praised Mary saying, “Mary, rejoice, for you are full of grace.”

Elizabeth continues, saying, “Blessed are you among women.  Among all the women, you are the most blessed, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.  How does this happen that the mother of my Lord should come to me?  For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the fruit in my womb leaped for joy.  Blessed are you who believed what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.”

What was Mary’s response when she heard those words?

Did she say, “I told you that you would praise me”?  I told you that you would treat me as the greatest among all women”?  Is that what Mary said?  No.  Mary remained very humble in her response.  Mary knew from the very beginning that everything that happened in her life was due to the actions of God.  That’s why Mary responded by saying, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord.  Not because I am great, but because the Lord has done great things for me.”  That is the Blessed Virgin Mary.  She never exalted herself.  For all the successes that she had, she always gave praise and honor to the Lord.

Many of you may have watched the Olympics.  I don’t watch TV that much, but I did see some clips on social media.  There were ceremonies for those who received gold.  You may admire or idolize many of those contestants.  But sometimes, if you look at them, it’s a sad reality in life.  I don’t admire many of those who seek gold.  Why?  Because during those times in the ceremonies when they are given the chance to speak, yes, they thank those people who have helped them.  They thank their coaches, their trainers, and all the people who supported them.  But very few of them thank God.  Very few of them realize that they didn’t receive those medals without God’s grace and help.  They forget the One who gave them their strength, their skills, their abilities, their intelligence.  It’s all coming from God.  The source of all that is God alone.

It’s sad, because they are given the opportunity; they’re given the platform to speak and to spread the love that the Lord has given them, their faith in God.  That’s their opportunity to spread the Word.  But they don’t do it.

Again, in our gospel today, Mary knew very well that all that she had came from God.  All the glory, all the praises that the angel, and her cousin, and other people gave her, she directed all of them to the Lord.  She knew very well that everything she received in this life was due to God’s actions.  Mary never took any of the blessings she received to herself.  She never accepted anything for her own.  She always gave praise to the Father.

So again, today, we thank the Blessed Virgin Mary, who set us a Christian example.  We ask for her intercession to accompany us on our journey to heaven.  Yes, we have some difficulties and struggles in life.  Let us imitate Mary who always saw and anticipated the needs of others.  Whenever we receive blessings, like Mary, we need to give all the praise and glory to the Father.  In fact, many of the popes have said that the fastest and the easiest, and the surest way to get close to Jesus is through Mary.

The Qualities of Good Shepherds

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
July 21, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Jer 23:1-6 / Ps 23 / Eph 2:13-18 / Mk 6:30-34
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

We find a common theme of leadership, compassion, and unity in our readings today. Each passage presents a different aspect of God’s relationship with His people, highlighting the desire for their care, peace and guidance.

Our first reading gives a stern warning to the shepherds who failed in their duties. The leaders of Israel tasked with guiding and protecting the people have instead led them astray, yet this passage is also filled with hope. God promises to gather His scattered flock and raise up new shepherds who will care for them. This prophecy ultimately points to the coming of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd who will lead His people with justice and righteousness.

Paul speaks of the profound unity brought about by Christ in his letter to the Ephesians. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has reconciled humanity with God and with each other. He has broken down the barriers that once separated Jews and Gentiles, creating one new humanity. This message is especially relevant today as we continue to face divisions within our own communities and the world at large. Those words remind us that true peace and unity can only be found in Christ.

In today’s gospel, we see Jesus welcoming back the apostles, who have been sent out on their mission. They were tired, having worked hard, and Jesus recognizes their need for rest. “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while,” He tells them. However, when they arrive at the deserted place, they find a large crowd waiting.

Despite His own need for rest, and the disciples’ weariness, Jesus is moved with compassion for the crowd. Because they were like sheep without a shepherd, He begins to teach them many things, attending to their spiritual hunger before anything else.

This scene highlights Jesus’ profound compassion and His role as the Good Shepherd, echoing the imagery from Jeremiah, where God promises to raise up a shepherd who will lead with justice and righteousness. Jesus exemplifies this shepherding by putting the needs of the people before His own, demonstrating the sacrificial love and care that characterizes His ministry. The rest and nourishment He offers are not just physical, but deeply spiritual, addressing the core needs of the human heart.

The connection to the second reading from Ephesians is also significant. Paul speaks of Jesus breaking down the dividing wall of hostility and making peace through His sacrifice. This peace is not just the absence of conflict, but a deep abiding presence of God’s love and grace, uniting us with God and with each other. Jesus as the Good Shepherd invites us into this peace, guiding us towards unity and reconciliation.

There was once a small town known for its high school basketball team. The team had an exceptional coach, Coach Thompson, who was deeply committed to his players. He wasn’t just concerned with their performance on the court, but also their well-being off it. He would often stay late to help them with their homework, listen to their personal struggles and offer guidance and support.

One season the team had a particularly grueling schedule. They practiced hard and played intense games almost every week. By mid-season, the players were exhausted. Coach Thompson decided to give them a break. “Let’s take a weekend off,” he said. “Rest, spend time with your families, and recharge.”

However, that weekend Coach Thompson received a call from one of his players, Jake, who was going through a tough time at home. His parents were fighting, and he felt lost and alone. Despite the need for his own rest, Coach Thompson didn’t hesitate. He drove to Jake’s house, took him out for a meal, and spent the day with him, listening and offering words of comfort.

Coach Thompson’s actions resonated deeply with the entire team. They saw how he lived out his commitment to their well-being, even at the expense of his own comfort. This compassion and selflessness not only strengthened their bond, but also inspired them to look out for each other, both on and off the court.

This story mirrors Jesus’ response to the crowd in today’s gospel. Just as Coach Thompson put his players’ needs before his own, Jesus prioritized the spiritual and emotional needs of the people, exemplifying the true Shepherd’s heart. Both coach Thompson and Jesus demonstrate the transformative power of compassion and sacrificial love, reminding us of our call to care for one another in our journeys.

Reflecting on these readings, we are called to examine our own roles as shepherds in our families, communities, and workplaces. How are we guiding those entrusted to our care? Are we living in compassion, justice, and righteousness as Christ exemplified?

In a world often marked with division and hostility, Paul’s message in Ephesians challenges us to be instruments of peace and reconciliation. We must strive to break down the walls that divide us, fostering unity through our common faith in Christ.

Finally, we learn from Jesus’ example in the gospel: Even in times of weariness, He prioritized the needs of others, teaching us the importance of compassion and selflessness. As followers of Christ, we are called to be attentive to the needs around us, offering guidance, support, and love, even when it demands personal sacrifice. May we take these lessons to heart, embodying the qualities of good shepherds in our daily lives and striving for the peace and unity that Christ has won for us.

May Jesus Christ be praised.

Bearers of God’s Kingdom

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
July 14, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Am 7:12-15 / Ps 85 / Eph 1:3-14 / Mk 6:7-13
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

In today’s readings, we encounter themes of divine calling, mission, and the power of God’s grace working through us.  Each passage invites us to reflect on how we are called and sent forth as disciples in the modern world.

The prophet Amos is confronted by the priest of Bethel, who tells him to stop prophesying in Israel and to go back to Judah.  Amos responds by affirming that he did not choose this path for himself but was called by God.

“I was no prophet, nor a prophet’s son, but I was a herdsman, a dresser of sycamore trees.  And the Lord took me from following the flock, and the Lord said to me ‘Go.  Prophesy to my people of Israel.’”

This passage reminds us that God calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things.  Saint Therese of Lisieux summarized this beautifully when she said, “The Lord needs from us neither great deeds nor profound thoughts, neither intelligence nor talents.  He cherishes simplicity.”  Amos’s call from a humble background reflects the simplicity and obedience that God cherishes.

In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul writes about our spiritual blessings in Christ, emphasizing that God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in love.  He speaks of our adoption as God’s children through Jesus Christ, the redemption through His blood, and the inheritance we have obtained.  Paul highlights the mystery of God’s will, revealed in Christ, and the sealing of believers with the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of our inheritance.

In today’s gospel, we read about Jesus sending out the twelve apostles, two by two, giving them authority over unclean spirits, and instructing them to take nothing for their journey except a staff: no bread, no bag, no money in their belts.  They were to wear sandals and not put on two tunics.  He also told them, “Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that place.  If any place will not welcome you, and they refuse to hear you, as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.”  The apostles went out and told the people they should repent. They cast out many demons, anointed with oil many who were sick, and cured them.

Jesus’ instructions to the apostles are strikingly simple and direct.  He emphasizes the need for trust in God’s providence and the importance of humility and detachment from material possessions.  The mission of the apostles was to proclaim the Kingdom of God, call for repentance, and bring healing, both physical and spiritual.

The theme of trust and reliance on God is a timeless message that resonates deeply in our contemporary world, where self-reliance and material security are often prioritized.  This gospel passage challenges us to reflect on our own dependencies and consider how we might deepen our trust in God’s providence.  In a world where success is often measured by wealth, power, and self-sufficiency, the gospel invites us to reassess our priorities.  How often do we rely on our resources, rather than on God’s guidance?  The call to take nothing for the journey is a powerful reminder that our true security lies in God alone.

Moreover, the mission of the apostles to bring healing and proclaim repentance is as relevant today as it was in Jesus’ time.  We are surrounded by spiritual and physical suffering, and the need for repentance and transformation is ever present.  By living out our faith through acts of love, service, and healing, we become instruments of God’s grace in the world.

There are four things that Jesus reminds us of today.

First:  Trust in God’s providence.  Just as the apostles were called to trust in God’s provision, we, too, are invited to place our trust in Him, especially in uncertain times. This trust can manifest in various ways, such as relying on God’s guidance in making decisions or believing that He will provide for our needs when we are in distress.

Second:  Simplicity and detachment.  The apostles’ journey with only a staff calls us to reflect on our own attachment to material possessions.  In a society driven by consumerism, this message encourages us to find contentment in simplicity and to prioritize spiritual wealth over material wealth.

Third:  Community and hospitality.  Jesus instructs the apostles to depend on the hospitality of others, highlighting the importance of community.  In a more modern context, we are reminded to be open to giving and receiving help within our communities. This fosters a spirit of solidarity and mutual support, which is vital in a world where many feel isolated and disconnected.

Fourth:  Mission and weakness.  The apostles were sent out to preach repentance, cast out demons, and heal the sick.  We are called to continue this mission by being witnesses of Christ’s love and mercy in our daily lives.  Whether through acts of kindness, advocating for justice, or sharing our faith, we participate in God’s mission to bring hope and healing to the world.

In embracing these lessons, we echo the words of St. Francis of Assisi: “Start by doing what is necessary, then do what is possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible.”  By responding to God’s call with trust, simplicity, and a commitment to community, we become instruments of His grace, capable of transforming the world around us.  As we reflect on these readings, let us be inspired by the faith and trust of Amos, the assurance of our blessings in Ephesians, and the mission of the apostles.  May we, too, become bearers of God’s kingdom in our world today.

Faith, Compassion, and Healing

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
June 30, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Wis 1:13-15; 2:23-24 / Ps 30 / 2 Cor 8:7, 9, 13-15 / Mk 5:21-43
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Our readings today collectively highlight God’s life-giving nature and His desire for us to live in fullness and health.

The Book of Wisdom tells us that God did not create death, and that all creation is wholesome. These foundational truths set the stage for understanding the miracles in the gospel reading. Jesus’ actions in healing the woman and raising Jairus’s daughter from death to life are manifestations of God’s will to restore life and wholeness. The readings also show Jesus’ immeasurable compassion.

In the first reading we are reminded that God did not create death, nor does He rejoice in the destruction of the living. God’s creation is fundamentally good and destined for immortality, reflecting His own nature. The passage underscores that death entered the world through the envy of the devil, highlighting the contrast between God’s life-giving nature and the destructive forces of evil.

The second reading, from Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians, emphasizes generosity and equality within the Christian community. Paul encourages the Corinthians to excel in the grace of giving, just as they excel in faith, speech, knowledge, and love. He points to the example of Jesus Christ who, though rich, became poor for our sake, so that through His poverty, we might become rich. Paul’s message is one of mutual support and sharing, ensuring that no one is in need while others have abundance.

Generosity doesn’t always have to involve money. In Father Mike Schmidt’s Catechism in a Year podcast, at Day 255, addresses how to engage in acts of solidarity and generosity beyond just giving money: spending time with those in need, listening to their stories, providing companionship. Sometimes a listening ear can be more valuable than money. We can also get involved with local charities or community organizations. Volunteering can address broader issues and provide structured support to those in need. Spiritual support can be powerful. Pray for those in need and let them know that we are praying for them. This can provide comfort and hope. By engaging in these actions, we can embody the true spirit of solidarity and generosity, providing meaningful support that goes beyond financial aid.

In the gospel, we encountered intertwined stories of Jairus’s daughter and the woman with a hemorrhage. These narratives highlight Jesus’ power over sickness and death and the transformative impact of faith and compassion.

When Jesus was carrying the cross, Veronica stood out for her unwavering compassion. As Jesus stumbled under the weight of the cross, bloodied and exhausted, Veronica pushed her way through the hostile crowd, and in a moment of pure, selfless love, she removed her veil and gently wiped the sweat and blood from his brow. To our amazement, the image of His sacred face was miraculously imprinted on the cloth. This act of kindness in the midst of such suffering was a testament to her deep faith and compassion. Veronica’s gesture, though small, had a profound impact. It was a beacon of humanity and love, shining brightly in the darkness of that day. Her bravery and empathy have inspired countless generations to show kindness, even in the face of adversity. Saint Veronica’s story reminds us that true compassion requires courage, and that even the smallest acts of love can leave a lasting impression, much like the image of Christ’s face on her veil. She’s celebrated not just for her miraculous cloak, but for the profound compassion that drove her to comfort Jesus in His hour of need.

In the gospel reading, the woman with a hemorrhage had suffered for twelve years, enduring much at the hands of many doctors and spending all she had. Despite her suffering, she clung to a glimmer of hope. She believed that simply touching Jesus’ cloth would heal her. Her faith, born out of desperation, propelled her to act. Jesus acknowledges her faith saying, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace and be healed of your disease” (Mk 5:34). This encounter underscores that, even in our darkest moments, faith can lead to healing and restoration. Some have also claimed that Saint Veronica is the same as the biblical woman who suffered from twelve years of hemorrhages. While these traditions and assertions cannot be proven, we do know that the bleeding woman displayed great faith in the Lord and was healed.

Meanwhile, Jairus, a synagogue leader, showed remarkable faith and patience. Despite being informed that his daughter had died, he trusted Jesus’ assurance, “Do not fear, only believe” (Mk 5:36). Jairus’s faith was tested by the delay caused by Jesus’ interaction with the woman, yet his belief remained steadfast. Jesus’ response to Jairus’s situation demonstrates that delays do not diminish divine power. God’s timing, though often mysterious, is always perfect. Jesus’ words to the girl, “Talitha koum, little girl, I say to you, get up” remind us of His authority over life and death.

Both stories intertwine to show how faith in Jesus connects and uplifts. The woman’s bold faith and Jairus’s patient faith exemplify different aspects of trusting in God. Their stories teach us that faith is not a one-size-fits-all experience, but a deeply personal journey. Whether we approach Jesus in desperation or impatience, what matters is the trust we place in Him.

Jesus’ actions highlight His boundless compassion. He stops to address the woman suffering despite being on a mission to save Jairus’s daughter. His willingness to be interrupted for the sake of showing love and mercy calls us to examine our own priorities and attitudes. Are we willing to pause and show compassion even when it disrupts our plans? We are challenged today to reflect on how we live out our faith and compassion in everyday life. Are we willing to reach out in faith like the woman? Or wait patiently, like Jairus, trusting in God’s timing? Are we generous with our resources, ensuring that our abundance helps those in need? These stories of healing and restoration challenge us to trust in Jesus’ power to transform our lives and situations.

The exhortation to generosity in the second reading calls us to act with compassion, ensuring that we support and uplift one another. In our lives we might face situations where our faith is tested, and where the needs of others intersect with our own journeys. Let us remember that Jesus’ power to heal and restore is ever present. As we navigate our faith journeys, we will draw strength from the examples of the woman and Jairus, trusting in Jesus and showing compassion to those around us.

May Jesus Christ be praised, now and forever.

Rooted in Faith and Love

Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
June 16, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Ez 17:22-24 / Ps 92 / 2 Cor 5:6-10 / Mk 4:26-34
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

This Sunday, we celebrate the liturgy with hearts open to the word of God, which reveals the mysteries of faith and the kingdom of heaven. Today’s readings, filled with imagery of growth and cultivation, invite us to reflect on the role of fathers, both earthly and heavenly, in nurturing and guiding the growth of their families and communities.

In the first reading, from Ezekial, God promises to take a tender shoot from the top of a cedar and plant it on a high and lofty mountain.  This tender shoot will grow into a majestic cedar, providing shelter and shade for all creatures.

This image is a powerful reminder of the role of parents as planters and nurturers. Fathers are called to plant seeds of faith, love, and virtue in the hearts of their children, trusting that God will bring these seeds into fruition. Just as the cedar grows strong and tall, so too do the seeds of guidance and example provided by fathers help their children grow in strength and character.

The psalm speaks of the righteous flourishing, like a palm tree and growing like a cedar of Lebanon, planted in the house of the Lord. This flourishing is not just physical, but spiritual and moral.  On Father’s Day we honor the fathers who, through their steadfast love and dedication, have created environments where their children can thrive. Their commitment and sacrifices are akin to the nurturing environment provided by fertile soil, allowing their children to grow deep roots in faith and moral integrity.

Karol Wojtyla Sr., father of the future Pope John Paul II, played a pivotal role in shaping his son’s spiritual life, as detailed in the book, John Paul II: Man of Prayer. Widowed when his son was just nine, Karol, known as “the captain,” was a quiet, upright, retired soldier and former tailor, who took on the roles of cooking, cleaning, and making his son’s clothes. He encouraged his son in his friendships, studies, and sports.

But most importantly, he instilled a deep faith in him. Their modest apartment in Wadowice, Poland was described by John Paul II as a domestic seminary. The elder Wojtyla set an example through his own deep and unselfconscious piety, praying often on his knees and making prayer a constant in their lives.  The two would read the Bible and pray the rosary together.

One significant detail from the book highlights this devotion.  Sometimes, young Karol would wake in the night to find his father kneeling in the dark, praying silently. This profound example of faith and integrity greatly influenced the spiritual formation of the future Pope.

Paul reminds us in the second reading that we walk by faith, not by sight. Fathers often embody this principle in their role as providers and protectors, making countless decisions and sacrifices, motivated by love and faith, even when the outcomes are uncertain. Paul’s message encourages fathers to persevere in their mission, trusting that their efforts, guided by faith, will be pleasing to the Lord.

Finally. in the gospel of Mark, Jesus uses the parables of growing seed and the mustard seed to illustrate the kingdom of God.  These parables highlight the mysterious and gradual growth of the kingdom, often unnoticed, but unstoppable. Fathers can draw inspiration from these parables, understanding that their efforts, even the smallest acts of love and guidance, are like seeds planted in the hearts of their children.  Though the growth may be slow and imperceptible at times, the impact is profound and enduring.

A man was visiting a farmer and saw him planting his field. “What are you sowing?” he asked. “Wheat” was the answer. “And what do you expect to reap from it?” he asked. “Wheat, of course,” said the farmer.

The very same day, some little thing provoked the farmer to go into cursing and swearing.  The visitor asked, “What are you sowing now?” The farmer said, “What? Do you take such serious views of every mood, word, and action?” The visitor replied, “Yes. For every word helps to form a permanent temper. And for every word we must give account, and every act aids to form a habit. And habits are to the soul what the veins and arteries are to the blood, the courses in which it moves and will move forever. By all these little words and actions, we are forming character, and the character will go with us to eternity, and according to it will be our destiny and the destiny of others forever.”

Jesus’ parable emphasizes the natural and gradual process of growth.  The seed grows night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up. This underscores the idea that spiritual growth and the advancement of God’s kingdom are often not immediately visible but occur continuously and inevitably over time.  It reassures believers that God is at work, even when we do not see immediate results. Our role is to plant the seed and trust in God’s timing for the growth and fruition.

The transformation from a tiny seed to a large plant signifies the profound impact the kingdom of God can have on the world and on individuals’ lives. The mustard plant becomes large enough that the birds of the air can perch in its shade.

This highlights the inclusive and expansive nature of God’s kingdom, providing shelter, refuge, and community. It challenges believers to consider how their faith and actions can contribute to creating a welcoming and nurturing environment for others.

The parable encourages us and those who may feel that their efforts are too small to make a difference. It reassures us that God values and can use even the smallest acts of faith and kindness in a world that often celebrates immediate success and grand gestures. This parable invites us to appreciate the humble beginnings and trust in the long-term impact of our faithfulness.

This Sunday, the Church calls us to trust in the power of small beginnings and our role in enhancing the growth of the kingdom of God. It encourages us to nurture our faith; be patient with the process; and contribute to a community where all can find refuge and support. This reflection invites us to embrace the mystery of God’s work in the world and our lives, holding onto the hope that even the small seeds of faith can grow into something magnificent.

Today, brothers and sisters, as we reflect on the readings and celebrate Father’s Day, let us give thanks for the fathers and father figures in our lives.  Let us recognize the vital role they play in nurturing, guiding, and supporting their families.  Their love and dedication reflect God’s love for us: a love that is patient, steadfast, and ever-present.

As we honor our fathers, let us also pray for them, that they may continue to be strong and faithful stewards of their families, and that they may be blessed with wisdom and grace to lead their children towards life rooted in faith and love. May all fathers find joy in their vocation, and may their children grow to be the living testimony to their tireless love and devotion.

May Jesus Christ be praised.