Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Catholic Schools Week

In other years: Saint John Bosco (1815-1888)

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 7:34

Mass: Dt 18:15-20; Resp Ps 95; 1 Cor 7:32-35; Mk 1:21-28

If today you hear His voice, harden not your hearts.

I SHOULD LIKE YOU TO BE FREE FROM ANXIETIES.

(1 Cor 7:32)

Thank you for this Saint Paul. No matter our state in life, we go on with anxieties about this and that. Sometimes we lose sight of what we are about as disciples of Jesus who keep our minds fixed on Him and constantly "seek the things that are above" (Col. 3:1). We strive to do the will of God in all things and yet we get distracted with the daily in the form of struggles, aches and pains, misunderstandings, irritations, joys and sorrows too. And our anxieties are exacerbated in these difficult times. Yet Saint Paul tells the Corinthians and us about the cause of some anxieties in today's first reading for this reason: "I am telling you this for your own benefit, not to impose a restraint on you, but for the sake of propriety and adherence to the Lord without distraction" (Cor 7:35). 

We have to be reminded day in and day out and throughout each day too not to be distracted. It seems that the great Saint John Bosco was someone able to keep focused in the midst of many distractions including a cholera epidemic that hit Turin [Italy] in 1854. John and his co-workers looked after the sick and dying while the population as a whole refused to handle them. By the time the epidemic receded, "with a death toll of 1,400", neither John nor any of  his "boys" were infected. 

On Easter Sunday 1934, John Bosco was canonized a saint. At his canonization, Pope Pius XI, who had visited John Bosco some 50 years earlier, recalled this: "A man who was attentive to everything that happened around him and yet at the same time could not be said to be concerned about anything, his thoughts being elsewhere. And it was really so: he was elsewhere, he was with God". Saint John Bosco was extraordinary. At his funeral, "forty thousand people filed past his body while it lay in the church, and virtually the whole population of Turin lined the streets for his funeral ... he was the first canonized saint in whose honour a national holiday was declared in Italy, for the day following his canonization" (Butler's Lives of the Saints, January, pp. 226-230).

God will always save His Church, and the Madonna, who visibly protects the contemporary world, will know how to make redeemers rise up.

(Saint John Bosco)

May the Virgin Mary, who always kept Jesus' words and gestures in her heart, and followed Him with total willingness and faithfulness, help us to listen to Him and follow Him, to experience the signs of His salvation in our life.

(Pope Francis, Sunday Angelus Address, January 31, 2021) 

SAINT JOHN BOSCO,

PRAY FOR US.

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Saturday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Blessed Virgin Mary

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 7:31-33

Mass: Heb 11:1-2, 8-19; Resp Ps (Lk 1); Mk 4:35-41

Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel; He has come to His people.

FAITH IS THE REALIZATION OF WHAT IS HOPED FOR AND 

EVIDENCE OF THINGS NOT SEEN.

(Heb 11:1)

I like it when Jesus asks questions. In a boat with the disciples, Jesus sleeps while the disciples are afraid and anxious about the wind and waves that rock the boat. After being awakened by the frightened disciples, then rebuking the wind and calming the sea, Our Lord poses two questions for us to ponder: Why were you terrified? Do you not yet have faith? (Mk 4:40). Today seems like another good day to pray with the man whose son was possessed by a mute spirit: "I do believe, help my unbelief!" (Mk 9:24), and remember words of Our Lord: Everything is possible to one who has faith (Mk 9:23).

We turn to Mary, comforter of the afflicted, to please pray for us. 

Knowing in advance 

the course and outcome of all miseries

she sooths our fear

she awakens our faith

she strengthens our hope

she dispels our lack of confidence

she bolsters our timidness,

(Saint Bernard of Clairvaux)

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Friday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

National March for Life

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 7:24-30

Mass: Heb 10:32-39; Resp Ps 37; Mk 4:26-3

Take delight in the Lord, and He will grant you your heart's desire.

HEART OF JESUS, SALVATION OF THOSE WHO TRUST IN THEE,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

Some 20 years ago, shortly after I entered the monastery, I went to greet Sister Philomena of happy memory in the back garden. She looked me in the eyes and said: "I will pray for your perseverance." At that time I could not for the life of me figure out why someone would pray for my perseverance. I now better understand what she meant. As we hear in the Letter to the Hebrews, "You need great endurance to do the will of God and receive what He has promised" (Heb 10:36). We keep going though, for "we are not among those who draw back and perish, but among those who have faith and will possess life" (Heb 10:39). Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain (Ps 127:1). 

SAINT JOSEPH, GLORY OF HOME LIFE,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Yes, another look at the sky.😊

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Thursday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Saint Thomas Aquinas, the Angelic Doctor (1225-1274)

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 7:19-23

Mass: Heb 10:19-25; Resp Ps 24; Mk 4:21-25

The Lord's is the earth and it fullness; the world and those who dwell in it.

IS A LAMP BROUGHT IN TO BE PLACED UNDER A BUSHEL BASKET OR UNDER A BED, AND NOT TO BE PLACED ON A LAMPSTAND?

(Mk 4:21)

I am no Thomist. However, I did have the privilege of studying for several years at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas in Rome, commonly called, the Angelicum. There I studied under and with, was advised and supported by Dominicans from all over the world, as well as many other bright and gracious people. It is fitting and right then to honor the teachers, students, and staff at the Angelicum by turning to Saint Thomas Aquinas for today's reflections.

Not unrelated to today's Gospel, especially Jesus' words to His disciples included above, we turn to the Angelic Doctor and his Summa Theologica, II-II, q. 188, where Thomas Aquinas writes "Of the Different Kinds of Religious Life". In the Sixth Article, he addresses whether a religious Order devoted to the contemplative life is more excellent than one that is given to the active life. Among other wisdom, Thomas Aquinas teaches this: "Accordingly we must say that the work of the active life is twofold. One proceeds from the fullness of contemplation, such as teaching and preaching. Wherefore Gregory says that the words of Psalm 144(145):7, "They shall publish the memory ... of Thy sweetness", refers to perfect men returning from their contemplation. And this work is more excellent than simple contemplation. For even as it is better to enlighten than merely to shine, so it is better to give to others the fruit of one's contemplation than merely to contemplate ..."

Not unrelated to today's reading from the Holy Rule, we turn to the Summa, II-II, q. 83, "Of Prayer" with its seventeen articles. God is praised. Most specifically, we look to the Ninth Article on the Lord's Prayer. First though, Saint Benedict has something to say about the Lord's Prayer when writing on humility: "Truly, we are forbidden to do our own will, for Scripture tells us: Turn away from your desires. And in the Prayer too we ask God that his will be done in us" (RB 7:19-20). On the Lord's Prayer in general then, Thomas Aquinas calls the Prayer "most perfect, because, as Augustine says, if we pray rightly and fittingly, we can say nothing else but what is contained in this prayer of Our Lord ... Now in the Lord's Prayer not only do we ask for all that we may rightly desire, but also in the order wherein we ought to desire them, so that this prayer not only teaches us to ask, but also directs our affections". And on the words "thy will be done" specifically, Aquinas writes that they "rightly signify, 'May Thy commandments be obeyed' on earth as in heaven, i.e., by men as well as by angels".

How blessed we are with our faith tradition. In the midst of the Church he opened his mouth, and the Lord filled him with the spirit of wisdom and understanding and clothed him in a robe of glory (Entrance Antiphon, Mass).

And in the far chance that you ever get your hands on the December 2020 issue of The American Benedictine Reivew, see an article by Dominican Father Andrew Hofer, "St. Thomas Aquinas on St. Benedict". 

ANYONE WHO HAS EARS OUGHT TO HEAR.

(Mk 4:23)

SAINT THOMAS AQUINAS,

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Another nice look at our second field this past Monday morning around 9am.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Wednesday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Saint Angela Merici (1474-1540), Foundress of the Congregation of the Ursulines, the "oldest and most considerable teaching Order in the Roman Catholic Church"

International Holocaust Remembrance Day 

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 7:10-18

Mass: Heb 10:11-18; Resp Ps 110; Mk 4:1-20

Yours is princely power in the day of your birth, in holy splendor.

IF YOU DO NOT TAKE YOUR STAND ON ME, YOU WILL NOT STAND FIRM.

(Is 7:9)

Today's Gospel brings to mind the passage from the Prophet Isaiah above. Who and what led me to the Prophet's words were Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI) in his Introduction to Christianity (Ignatius, 2004). One of the back cover blurbs is a fitting description of the book: "This is solid food that must be eaten slowly, but it is very nourishing and worth the effort." In a section entitled "Faith as Standing Firm and Understanding", J. Ratzinger writes: "Faith is ... defined as taking up a position, as taking a stand trustfully on the ground of the word of God" (p. 69). We must stand on the firm ground of the word of God and trust. May we be ones sown on rich soil, those who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit thirty and sixty and hundredfold (Mk 4:20). I believe, help my unbelief. 

Through prayer a new incarnation of the Word takes place. And we are the 'tabernacles' where the words of God want to be welcomed and preserved , so that they may visit the world ... through prayer, the word of God comes to abide in us and we in it ... the word inspires good intentions and sustains actions. 

(Pope Francis, General Audience, January 27, 2021)

Do in life what you would have wanted to do in death.

(Saint Angela Merici)

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Tuesday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Saints Alberic, Robert and Stephen, Abbots and Founders of the Cistercian Order (11th-12th century)

Other saints: Timothy and Titus

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 7:5-9

Mass: 

For Saints Alberic, Robert and Stephen: Sir 44:1, 10-15; Resp Ps 94; Heb 11:1-2, 8-16: Mk 10:24b-30

For Saints Timothy and Titus: 2 Tim 1:1-8 or Titus 1:1-5; Resp Ps 96; Lk 10:1-9 or Mk 3:31-35

Not to us, Lord, not to us, but to your name give the glory.

LET US GET UP THEN, AT LONG LAST, FOR THE SCRIPTURES ROUSE US WHEN THEY SAY: IT IS HIGH TIME FOR US TO ARISE FROM SLEEP. LET US OPEN OUR EYES TO THE LIGHT THAT COMES FROM GOD, AND OUR EARS TO THE VOICE FROM HEAVEN THAT EVERY DAY CALLS OUT THIS CHARGE: IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE TODAY, DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEARTS.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, Prologue 8-10)

Yes, it is high time for us to arouse from sleep. Whatever comes your way this day, remember that "all things all possible for God" (Mk 10:27).

With that in mind and heart, we turn to today's photo. The Constitutions of the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance read: "Wherever new monasteries are established, the founders are to become lovers of that place" (C. 70). With a place like this, how could one not become a lover of it? Here is a look at our second field, around 9am yesterday morning. God is praised. 

SAINTS ALBERIC, ROBERT AND STEPHEN,

SAINTS TIMOTHY AND TITUS,

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

The Conversion of Saint Paul the Apostle

Year of Saint Joseph

Conclusion of Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: "Abide in my love and you will bear much fruit"

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 7:1-4 Humility

Mass: Acts 22:3-16 or Acts 9:1-22; Resp Ps 117; Mk 16:15-18

The fidelity of the Lord endures forever.

MARY, QUEEN OF APOSTLES,

PRAY FOR US.

May the most important thing of all for Saint Paul also be the most important thing for us:

The most important of all to [Paul] ... was that he knew himself to be loved by Christ. Enjoying this love, he considered himself happier than anyone else; were he without it, it would be no satisfaction to be the friend of principalities and powers. He preferred to be thus loved and the least of all, or even to be among the damned, than to be without that love and be among the great and honored.

(Saint John Chrysostom, Office of Readings, January 25, Conversion of Paul. Apostle)

SAINT PAUL THE APOSTLE,

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

Word of God Sunday: A day devoted to the celebration, study, and dissemination of the Word of God

Year of Saint Joseph

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: "Abide in my love and you will bear much fruit"

In other years: Saint Francis de Sales, Bishop and Doctor (1567-1622)

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 6 Restraint of Speech

Mass: Jon 3:1-5, 10; Resp Ps 25; 1 Cor 7:29-31; Mk 1:14-20

In your kindness remember me, because of your goodness, O Lord.

I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD, SAYS THE LORD; WHOEVER FOLLOWS ME WILL NOT WALK IN DARKNESS, BUT WILL HAVE THE LIGHT OF LIFE.

(Communion Antiphon, Mass)

As can be seen at the top of today's reflection, it is a busy day. Therefore, we could be about many things. One, as I was reminded by a commentator, is to go back to the basics. That is by listening to Jesus when He begins His public ministry: This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel (Mk 1:15). Indeed, this is the time of fulfillment. Repent, and believe in the Gospel. 

Spend some time with the Word of God today. How is Jesus calling you to repent and follow Him more closely? Teach me your ways, O Lord (Ps 25).

To accept Jesus' call is to reject other options, with all their joys and sorrows. The first disciples grew slowly into their call and its price tag as they left behind families, jobs, home, country, and finally life itself. They counted the choice worth the cost. And so may we.

(Magnificat, Prayer for the Evening, Canticle commentary, January 23, 2021)

SAINT FRANCES DE SALES,

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: A beautiful look at Crater Lake, Oregon. Thanks, MO. 

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Saturday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Blessed Virgin Mary

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: "Abide in my love and you will bear much fruit."

Other saints: Saint Marianne Cope (1838-1918); Saint Vincent Zaragoza, Martyr (304) 

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 5:14-19

Mass: Heb 9:2-3, 11-14; Resp Ps 47; Mk 3:20-21

God mounts his throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord.

MARY, MOTHER OF THE LIVING GOD,

PRAY FOR US.

JOSEPH, HUSBAND OF THE MOTHER OF GOD,

PRAY FOR US.

We dedicate this Saturday to the Virgin Mary, so turn to her, for "she is Queen of heaven, she is Queen of mercy, and she is also the Mother of the only-begotten Son of God - a title which more than anything else commends to us the greatness of her power and loving kindness" (Saint Bernard of Clairvaux). 

SAINT MARIANNE COPE,

SAINT VINCENT ZARAGOZA,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: You see many photos of the sky. It is fascinating how the sky changes day by day, and throughout each day too. This shot was taken yesterday around 3pm. 

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Friday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: "Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit."

Year of Saint Joseph

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 5:1-13 Obedience

Mass: Heb 8:6-13; Resp Ps 85; Mk 3:13-1

With you, O Lord, is the fountain of life, and in your light, we see light.

JESUS, AUTHOR OF LIFE,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

Today Jesus goes up the mountain and summons those whom He wanted and they came to Him (Mk 3:13-19). Jesus summons each and every one of us too. Our Lord wants us. May we go to Jesus then, with the first step of humility, that is, unhesitating obedience (RB 5:1). After all, it comes naturally to those who cherish Christ above all (RB 5:2). Your will, O Lord, not mine, be done. 

God our Creator,

we give thanks to you,

who alone have the power to impart the breath of life

as you form each of us in our mother's womb;

grant, we pray,

that we, whom you have made stewards of creation,

may remain faithful to this sacred trust

and constant in safeguarding the dignity

of every human life.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you in the unity

of the Holy Spirit,

one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

(Collect, Mass)

JOSEPH, PILLAR OF FAMILIES,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: A look at the Brisbane River, on the Sunshine Coast north of Brisbane, Australia. It was sent to me yesterday. I include it today as a reminder that our prayers for one another reach far and wide.

 

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Thursday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: "Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit."

Other saints: Saint Agnes, Virgin, Martyr (-304); Saint Meinrad, Martyr (861)

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 4:63-78

Mass: Heb 7:25-8:6; Resp Ps 49; Mk 3:7-12

Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.

JESUS IS ALWAYS ABLE TO SAVE THOSE WHO APPROACH GOD THROUGH HIM,

SINCE HE LIVES FOREVER TO MAKE INTERCESSION FOR THEM.

(Heb 7:25)

Since we have been busy putting into practice Saint Benedict's tools for good works the past few days, here are few more to help us to love the Lord God with our whole heart, our whole soul and all our strength, and love our neighbors as ourselves (RB 4:1-2). And we do everything through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

• Live by God's commandments every day.
• Treasure chastity.
• Harbor neither hatred nor jealousy of anyone.
• Do nothing out of envy.
• Respect the elders.
• Love the young.
• Pray for your enemies out of love for Christ.
• If you have a dispute with someone, make peace with him before the sun goes down.
• Never lose hope in God's mercy.

SAINT AGNES,

SAINT MEINRAD,

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US

Today's photo: For a change of pace, meet Theo in Park City, UT. He belongs to a friend since nursery school! Yes, nursery school! Thank you KGJ.

© Gertrtude Feick 2021

Wednesday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Other saints: Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi, Cistercian monk (1903-1964); Pope Saint Fabian (-250); Saint Sebastian, early Christian martyr (c. 300)

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: "Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit."

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 4:44-62

Mass: Heb 7:1-3, 15-17; Resp Ps 110; Mk 3:1-6

Yours is princely power in the day of your birth, in holy splendor.

I AM THE TRUE VINE AND YOU ARE THE BRANCHES, SAYS THE LOD.

WHOEVER REMAINS IN ME, AND I IN HIM, BEARS FRUIT IN PLENTY.

(Communion Antiphon, Mass)

During this week of Prayer for Christian Unity, and in today's Wednesday General Audience catechesis, the Holy Father urged the faithful to sow unity in our homes and workplaces with the tools God has given us, namely, "prayer and love". Some practical tools of prayer and love are listed in Saint Benedict's tool for good works. In fact, many are. You read some yesterday, here are some for today:

• Listen readily to holy reading.
• Devote yourself often to prayer.
• Guard your lips from harmful or deceptive speech.
• Prefer moderation in speech.
• Speak no foolish chatter, nothing just to provoke laughter.
• Do not love immoderate or boisterous laughter.
• Do not aspire to be called holy before you really are, but first be holy that you may more truly be called so.

BLESSED CYPRIAN MICHAEL IWENE TANSI,

POPE SAINT FABIAN,

SAINT SEBASTIAN,

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

NB. There is an interesting entry in Butler's Lives of the Saints for one of our saints for today, Cistercian Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi. Michael was Nigerian by birth and his parents, "who practiced the traditional religion of the Ibo people, named him Iwene, short for Iwegbuna, meaning 'Sorrow will not kill you.'"  Iwena was baptized in 1912 and given the name Michael. Ordained in 1937, Michael "was one of the first ten Nigerians to be ordained priests" (January, p. 143). Father Michael was a teacher and one of his students is now Cardinal Francis Arinze.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Tuesday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: "Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit."

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 4:22-43

Mass: Heb 6:10-20; Resp Ps 111; Mk 2:23-28

Great are the works of the Lord, exquisite in all their delights.

MAY THE FATHER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST ENLIGHTEN THE EYES OF OUR HEARTS, THAT WE MAY KNOW WHAT IS THE HOPE THAT BELONGS TO OUR CALL.

(Gospel versicle, Mass)

Saint Benedict gives us several tools for good works in today's passage from the Holy Rule. Take your pick on which one you would like to use for today's good works.

• You are not to act in anger.
• Or nurse a grudge.
• Rid your heart of all deceit.
• Never give a hollow greeting of peace.
• Never turn away when someone needs your love.
• Bind yourself to no oath lest it prove false.
• Speak the truth with heart and tongue.
• Do not repay one bad turn for another.
• Do not injure anyone.
• Bear injuries patiently.
• Love your enemies.
• If people curse you, do not curse them back. Bless them instead.
• Endure persecution for the sake of justice.
• Do not be proud.
• Nor given to too much wine.
• Refrain from too much eating.
• Or sleeping.
• And from laziness.
• Do not grumble.
• Or speak ill of others.
• Place your hope in God alone. 
• If you notice something good in yourself, give credit to God, not to yourself.
• But be certain that the evil you commit is always your own and yours to acknowledge. 

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Monday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: "Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit"

Other saints: Saint Margaret of Hungary OP (1242-1270)

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 4:1-21 The Tools for Good Works

Mass: Heb 5:1-10; Resp Ps 110; Mk 2:18-22

Before the daystar, like the dew, I have begotten you.

SON THOUGH HE WAS, HE LEARNED OBEDIENCE FROM WHAT HE SUFFERED.

(Heb 5:8)

Monday musings are brief. First, this from a letter to the Ephesians by Saint Ignatius of Antioch: "It is better to remain silent and be than to talk and not be" (Office of Readings, Monday, Second Week in Ordinary Time). May we then join Christ and learn obedience through what we suffer. Quietly.

When Jesus was accused by the chief priests and elders, He made no answer ... Jesus did not answer Pilate one word, so that the governor was greatly amazed. 

(Mt 27:12,14)

In a flood of words you will not avoid sinning ... a talkative man goes about aimlessly on earth.

(Rule of Saint Benedict 7:57-58)

SAINT  MARGARET OF HUNGARY,

PRAY FOR US.

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Thanks EJF for another look at Boise. A fitting one for today's thoughts.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: "Abide in my love and you shall bear much fruit."

Year of Saint Joseph

In other years: Saint Anthony, Abbot (251-356)

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 3:7-13

Mass: 1 Sm 3:3b-10, 19; Resp Ps 40; 1 Cor 6:13c-15a, 17-20; Jn 1:35-42

I have waited, waited for the Lord, and he stooped toward me and heard my cry.

I like the postures of the people in today's Gospel. First, there is John the Baptist "standing", firmly grounded in belief in the One who came after him. Grounded in faith, John watches Jesus walk by. "Behold," says John, "the Lamb of God." John's two disciples who were with John hear him and follow Jesus. Jesus turns and sees. The Lord questions the disciples. The Lord questions each one of us: What are you looking for? So, what is it you are looking for? If you aren't sure, listen to the voice of the Lord: Come, and you will see. 

It is fitting too that we remember Saint Anthony, "the celebrated Father of Monks". Anthony heard the voice of the Lord: If you want to be perfect, go and sell all you have and give the money to the poor-you will have riches in heaven. Then come and follow me. And Anthony did just that. 

What, dear brothers and sisters, is more delightful than this voice of the Lord calling to us? See how the Lord in His love shows us the way of life. Clothed then with faith and the performance of good works, let us set out on this way, with the Gospel for our guide, that we may deserve to see him who has called us to His kingdom.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, Prologue 19-21)

May the Virgin Mary help us make our lives a hymn of praise to God in response to His call  and in the humble and joyful fulfillment of His will.

(Pope Francis, Angelus Address, January 17, 2021)

Today's photo: Thanks to dear TAF, a 7am look at Lake Tippecanoe, Leesburg, IN, January 13, 2021. Crosley Jayne, pray for us.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Saturday of the First Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Blessed Virgin Mary

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 3:1-6 Summoning the Brothers for Counsel

Mass: Got 4:12-16; Resp Ps 19; Mk 2:13-17

Your words, Lord, are spirit and life. 

HAIL, HOLY MOTHER, WHO GAVE BIRTH TO THE KING WHO RULES HEAVEN AND EARTH FOR EVER.

(Entrance Antiphon, Mass)

There are some things I am thankful for now that we are back in Ordinary Time. One is Saturdays dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Another is the Collect used for today's Mass, a fitting one for a day dedicated to Mary, and when Jesus says: Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. I did not come to call the righteous but sinners (Mk 2:17).

Grant, Lord God, that we, your servants, 

may rejoice in unfailing health of mind and body, 

and, through the glorious intercession of Blessed Mary ever-Virgin,

may we be set free from present sorrow

and come to enjoy eternal happiness.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you in the unity

of the Holy Spirit,

one God, for ever and ever.

(Collect, Mass)

MARY, HEALTH OF THE SICK,

PRAY FOR US.

JOSEPH, HOPE OF THE SICK,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Yesterday at dusk.

2021 © Gertrude Feick

Friday of the First Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Other saints: Maur and Placid, Disciples of Saint Benedict

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 2:33-40

Mass: Heb 4:1-5, 11; Resp Ps 78; Mk 2:1-12 

Do not forget the works of the Lord!

Obedience is a blessing to be shown by all, not only to the abbot but also to one another as brothers, since we know that it is by this way of obedience that we go to God.

(RB 71:1)

If you do not know anything about Maur and Placid, disciples of Saint Benedict, you can learn about them from Saint Gregory the Great (c. 540-604) in Life and Miracles of Saint Benedict (Book Two of the Dialogues). The most famous story of the boys is found in Ch 7. The short version (aware that I tend to get carried away with the current 😊) is that while Abbot Benedict was in his room, the young monk Placid went to the lake to fetch water. Placid let the bucket fill too rapidly, lost his balance and fell into the water, where the current took him away from the shore. Although not with Placid, "the man of God" Benedict knew what happened. So holy Benedict called on Brother Maurus to go help the boy. With the "unhesitating obedience" of the first step of humility (RB 5:1), Maurus received a blessing from Benedict then ran to the water to help Placid. Unknowingly, Maurus ran across the surface of the water and pulled struggling Placid out of the water by his hair and took him to shore. Dear Maurus thought he was running on the ground the whole time! "Overcome with fear and amazement at a deed he would never have thought possible," Maurus "returned to his abbot and told him what had taken place." Abbot Benedict wouldn't take any credit for the deed but "attributed it to the obedience of his disciple. Maurus on the contrary claimed that it was due entirely to the abbot's command." After all, how could Maurus be responsible. He didn't even know he was doing it. So the boy Placid settled the matter: "When I was being drawn out of the water, I saw the abbot's cloak over my head; he is the one I thought was bringing me to shore." 

The response to this account by the deacon Peter in the Dialogues: "What marvelous deeds these are! They are sure to prove inspiring to all who hear them." One response for us is to join those in today's Gospel: "They were all astounded and glorified God, saying, 'We have never seen anything like this'" (Mk 2:12). At the same time, we remember the teaching of Saint Benedict from the Prologue of the Holy Rule, where Benedict quotes the psalmist and Saint Paul: "Not to us, Lord, not to us give the glory, but to your name alone ... By God's grace I am what I am ... He who boasts should make his boast in the Lord (RB Prologue 30-32). 

MAUR AND PLACID, 

PRAY FOR US.

SAINT BENEDICT,

PRAY FOR US.

JOSEPH MOST OBEDIENT,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: With plenty of rain these days, the Mattole River rushes.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Thursday of the First Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Other saints: Saint Macrina the Elder (c. 340), paternal grandmother of SS Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 2:30-32

Mass: Heb 3:7-14; Resp ps 95; Mk 1:40-45

If today you hear His voice, harden not your hearts.

IN YOU, O LORD, IS THE FOUNTAIN OF LIFE, AND IN YOUR LIGHT WE SEE LIGHT.

(Communion Antiphon, Mass)

In today's reading from the letter to the Hebrews, we hear this: "Encourage yourselves daily while it is still 'today'" (Heb 3:13). Today is all we have. May we listen to Jesus "today" and not harden our hearts lest we forsake the living God (Heb 3:12). United in faith and prayer, let us encourage one another. Be made clean (Mk 1:41), says the Lord. 

Heal me, Lord, that I may be healed; save me that I may be saved, for it is you whom I praise.

(Jer 17:14)

SAINT MARCRINA THE ELDER,

PRAY FOR US.

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Wednesday of the First Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Other saints: Saint Hilary of Poitiers, Bishop, Doctor (-367)

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 2:23-29

Mass: Heb 2:14-18; Resp Ps 105; Mk 1:29-39

Rejoice, O hearts that seek the Lord!

MY SHEEP HEAR MY VOICE, SAYS THE LORD. 

I KNOW THEM, AND THEY FOLLOW ME.

(Gospel versicle, Mass)

Here is a progression of sorts. First I read this in the Office of Readings, from a sermon On the Trinity by Saint Hilary of Poitiers: "I am well aware, almighty God and Father, that in my life I owe you a most particular duty. It is to make my every thought and word speak of you." Then this short introduction to Psalm 141: "We can use our treasured capacity for speech to offer prayer, as fragrant incense before God, or to offer hurt to another" (Magnificat, January 13, 2021). In today's Gospel, Jesus goes off to to a deserted place to pray (Mk 1:35). Let's join Him. Part of our prayer can be with the words of the psalmist: "I have called to you, Lord; hasten to help me! Hear my voice when I cry to you. Let my prayer arise before you like incense, the raising of my hands like an evening oblation. Set, O Lord, a guard over my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips!" (Ps 141).

We can always give praise, in good times and bad, because God is the faithful Friend. This is the foundation of praise: God is the faithful Friend, and His love never fails.

(Pope Francis, General Audience, January 13, 2021)

SAINT HILARY OF POITIERS,

PRAY FOR US.

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: After a full day of rain yesterday that continues this morning, a reminder of summer sunshine is welcome.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Tuesday of the First Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Other saints: Saint Aelred of Rievaulx, Cistercian Abbot (1110-1167)

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 2:16-22

Mass: Heb 2:5-12; Resp Ps 8; Mk 1:21-28

All sheep and oxen, yes, and the beasts of the field.

RECEIVE THE WORD OF GOD, NOT AS THE WORD OF MEN, 

BUT AS IT TRULY IS, THE WORD OF GOD.

(Gospel Versicle, Mass)

Listen to Jesus, the word of God. Be astonished. Renew your sense of awe, "for the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart" (Heb 4:12). What is the word of God saying to you, today? Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 

To join one's will to the will of God, so that the human will consents to whatever the divine will prescribes, and so that there is no other reason why it wills this thing or another except that it realizes God wills it: this is surely to love God.

(Aelred of Rievaulx, The Mirror of Charity)

SAINT AELRED OF RIEVAULX,

PRAY FOR US.

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Monday of the First Week in Ordinary Time

Year of Saint Joseph

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 2:11-15

Mass: Heb 1:1-6; Resp Ps 97; Mk 1:14-20

The Lord is king; let the earth rejoice.

WITH YOU, O LORD, IS THE FOUNTAIN OF LIFE, AND IN YOUR LIGHT WE SEE LIGHT.

(Communion Antiphon, Mass)

Welcome to Ordinary Time! Let's not make it the same old, same old though. After all, 2021 is young. For today, and every day, we listen to Jesus's proclamation: The Kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel (Mk 1:15). As Jesus calls Simon and Andrew, James and John in today's Gospel, He calls us: Come, after me (Mk 2:17). Let's follow the Lord, more closely and more wholeheartedly. In what one simple way will you do just that today? 😊

It is striking that the Lord spent most of His time on earth living an ordinary life, without standing out. It is a beautiful message that reveals the greatness of daily life, the importance in God's eyes of every gesture and moment in life, even the most simple.

(Pope Francis, Twitter, January 11, 2021)

JOSEPH, MOST FAITHFUL,

PRAY FOR US.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

The Baptism of the Lord

Year of Saint Joseph

Other saints: Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Bishop (c. 330-395)

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 2:1-10 Qualities of the Abbot

Mass: Is 42:1-4, 6-7; Resp Ps 29; Acts 10:34-38; Mk 1:7-11 or in Year B Is 55:1-11; Resp Ps (Is 12); 1 Jn 5:1-9; Mk 1:7-11

You will draw water joyfully from the springs of salvation.

SEEK THE LORD WHILE HE MAY BE FOUND, CALL ON HIM WHILE HE IS NEAR.

(Is 55:6)

Every year on this day I remember something Pope Saint John Paul II said years ago. If I recall correctly it was during his 1979 visit to his native land of Poland. It was a remarkable occasion as it was the first visit of a Roman Catholic pontiff to visit a Communist-ruled country (BBC News, June 2, 1979). It was during the Pope's visit that he recalled his baptism, the most important day of his life. The most important day of John Paul II's life was the day he was baptized. It was not when he was ordained priest, consecrated a bishop, or even elected as pope. It is no wonder as our Catechism teaches this: "Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the door which gives access to the other sacraments" (CCC 1213). Furthermore, "Baptism makes us members of the Body of Christ: 'Therefore ... we are members of one another' ... 'For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body'" (CCC 1267). If that's enough, Pope Saint John Paul II preached this on today's feast in 2003: "In Baptism, every Christian personally meets [Jesus]; he is inserted into the mystery of Christ's death and resurrection and receives a new life, which is the life of God. What a great gift, and what a great responsibility!" (January 12, 2003, Sistine Chapel). 

What a beautiful day to recall your own baptism and thank God for the gift. And to go forth with the responsibility to follow Jesus and go "about doing good" (Acts 10:38) with the words of Our Father in heaven in your heart and on your mind: "You are my beloved; with whom I am well pleased" (Mk 1:11). 

Love calls for love. In each act of service, in every work of mercy we perform, God manifests Himself and sets His gaze upon the world.

(Pope Francis, Angelus Address, January 10, 2021)

SAINT JOSEPH,  FOSTER FATHER OF THE SON OF GOD,

PRAY FOR US.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Saturday after Epiphany

Year of Saint Joseph

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 1:6-12

Mass: 1 Jn 5:14-21; Resp Ps 149; Jn 3:22-30

Let the faithful exult in glory.

YOU HAVE ETERNAL LIFE, YOU WHO BELIEVE IN THE NAME OF THE SON OF GOD. 

WE HAVE THIS CONFIDENCE IN HIM THAT IF WE ASK ANYTHING ACCORDING TO HIS WILL, HE HEARS US.

(1 Jn 5:13-14)

Two things for today. First, from Saint John: "Children, be on your guard against idols" (1 Jn 5:21). Second, from Saint Paul: "Seek the things that are above" (Col. 3:1).

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Friday after Epiphany

Year of Saint Joseph

Readings of the Day

RB: Ch 1:1-15 The Different Kinds of Monks

Mass: 1 Jn 5:5-13; Resp Ps 147; Lk 5:12-16

He sends forth His command to the earth; swiftly runs His word.

BELIEVE IN THE NAME OF THE SON OF GOD.

(1 Jn 5:13)

Following Jesus in today's Gospel, we withdraw to a deserted place to pray (Lk 5:16), or anyplace. Let us join the great crowds and listen to Him (Lk 5:15). Call on the Name, "Jesus". Speak to Jesus. Listen. With humility, "Jesus, 'if you wish', and believe, 'You can make me clean'" (Lk 5:12). I do will it, says the Lord, be made clean. (Lk 5:13).

A LIGHT HAS RISEN IN THE DARKNESS FOR THE UPRIGHT OF HEART; 

THE LORD IS GENEROUS, MERCIFUL AND JUST.

(Entrance Antiphon, Mass)

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Waiting for spring. 

 

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Thursday after Epiphany

Year of Saint Joseph

Saint Raymond of Penafort (c. 1175-1275)

Readings of the Day

RB: Prologue 45-50

Mass: 1 Jn 4:19-5:4; Resp Ps 72; Lk 4:14-22

Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.

WHOEVER LOVES GOD MUST ALSO LOVE HIS BROTHER AND SISTER.

(1 Jn 4:21)

This straightforward commandment of Jesus seems so simple, yet it remains a challenge. At the same time it is a mark of a true Christian. In what one way will you reach out to the person with whom you have the most difficulty. Today. For, "if anyone says, 'I love God,' but hates his brother or sister, he is a liar" (1 Jn 4:20).

As we progress in this way of life and in faith, we shall run on the path of God's commandments, our hearts overflowing with the inexpressible delight of love.

(RB Prologue 49)

SAINT RAYMOND OF PENAFORT,

PRAY FOR US.

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

© Gertrude Feick 2021

Wednesday after Epiphany

Year of Saint Joseph

Saint Andre Bessette (1845-1937)

Readings of the Day

RB: Prologue 39-44

Mass: 1 Jn 4:11-18; Resp Ps 72; Mk 6:45-52

Glory to you, O Christ, believed in throughout the world.

Since much of the Church celebrates the Feast of the Epiphany today, let us celebrate together, united in faith and prayer, and go forth as the Magi, following yonder star ...  

SONG ON THE FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY

Christine Rodgers, from Upon a Luminous Night

Be bold

like the 

Magi.

Do not

tarry,

settling

into

your comfort,

but rather

set out

keeping

the star

in your

vision.

It will lead

you

to the place

you are

most

in need of,

the place

where

God is.

And if

an angel

warns you

in a dream

not to

return

by the old

way,

please

listen.

SAINT ANDRE BESSETTE,

PRAY FOR US.

JOSEPH, MOST STRONG,

PRAY FOR US.

© Gertrude Feick 2021