Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, February 19, 2023 (EPISODE-407 )

Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, February 19, 2023 (EPISODE-407 )

Readings for Sunday, February 19, 2023 - Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A
FIRST READING: Lev 19:1-2, 17-18
Ps 103:1-2, 3-4, 8+10, 12-13. "The Lord is kind and merciful."
SECOND READING: 1 Cor 3:16-23
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (1 John 2:5). Alleluia, alleluia! Whoever keeps the word of Christ, grows perfect in the love of God.
GOSPEL: Matt 5:38-48

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 722119933 - Jesus christ crucifix cross on heaven sunrise - Christianity -Mercy - Forgiveness -  Love -  Giving -   Photo Contributor: Art Stocker
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily), for Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, February 19, 2023, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-seventh-sunday-of-ordinary-time-year-a-episode-407/s-cHMn9P87V1m  (EPISODE- 407)
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continuing from last week....   the source and the goal of discipleship is to share in the heart of God....   to dwell in God's love and reflect God's love....   love is at the heart of everything. to become truly Christ-like; not only in our appearances but in essence...  which is to BE love...   // this changes everything...   we focus not on perfecting external actions...  but put all our energies into allowing God's love and compassion to grow in our hearts and flow out into our attitudes and actions...   

Saint Paul uses a wonderful image to show us that God is building us up into a worthy dwelling place for him to live in us. But he says that we are not being formed into any old home for God,…… "We are invited to become not just an occasional holiday shack for God, but a permanent home and, (even more so...), a "Temple" for God to live in.  And the Greek word for "temple" used here implies not just the facade of the Temple of Jerusalem but the inner sanctuary - the "Holy of Holies" (where only one priest could enter at a time. Apparently, the priest on duty had a rope tied around them so if they fainted or died while in this inner sanctuary, they could be hauled out by the rope without anyone else entering!)   
 
So, each of us is invited to become, body, soul and mind,  an extremely holy place for God to dwell. 
 
What renovations do we need God's grace to create in us to make us a worthy place?  (a temple)? 
 
A temple is a building that is "purpose-built". Every room and every item in that place is there for the purpose of worshipping God (who abides in that temple) and for doing God's works. …… 
 
So, our lives, and everything about us, are similarly put to the use of God; We become willing instruments of God's Kingdom…  We are God's temple, says Saint Paul, and this is an amazing thought. 
 
This weekend, with the Gospel, two words bear deeper reflection; and need a bit of clarification.  
 
Firstly we are told by Jesus:  "Be perfect as your Heavenly Father is perfect" – 
This is not an invitation to perfectionism (which is quite a different thing).  
In fact, we actually see in Our Lord's life and ministry that he was the opposite of a "nit-picking" legalist, who was prickly around other people because they didn't do everything "just right." The Greek word "perfect," here, actually means "Telios" that is (like the word 'telescope')/ an unfolding to achieve its maximum potential/  achieving full capacity/ Reaching maturity/ Becoming whole or complete…  "To be best suited for its purpose"…. (For example.. a 'tailored suit' is Telios – that is, it is designed to fit the wearer's proportions perfectly).
….
So, we are invited to allow God's Kingdom to fit us like a designer Baptismal garment/.. matching just right !/ …. But, we are the ones who are being shaped to fit God's ways, and not the opposite... of us trying to cut down God's Kingdom to suit our convenience.   
 
The second problematic saying is "love your enemies"… 
This is extremely difficult to teach. "Pray for those who hurt you"…… 
Firstly the Greek word used here is not like the love of husband and wife. Also, this word is (understandably) nothing like the love that one has for a family member or a close friend…. It is 'agape" - That is, the different kind of love that wishes well to the other, show basic human respect and indicates an act of reason. It is not so much a love coming from the heart, but (surprisingly, in this situation) it is a decision (made by the head and enabled by a conscious, considered resolution). It is a deliberate choice to SHOW respect/kindness, restraint, and regard to all people, irrespective of their actions and irrespective of our feelings towards them. 
 
Doing this mirrors how God treats us all. 
 
(This does NOT mean that we become doormats or punching bags for Christ! That would be unjust and unacceptable. And in any case, Jesus is giving this teaching to disciples, most of whom would have been quite capable of knocking the head off someone who slapped them even once!  Christ's new followers would have needed to use their willpower not to strike back! Christ is teaching us that, Abiding in God's love, we don't have to lower our response or attitude to that of those who seek to harm us. We do not need to return evil for evil – which would simply continue the vicious cycle of violence and hate.  
 
This is asking us something that does not come naturally. The bonds of natural affection and friendship are in some ways easier, but this is about the call of God's love - not the limits of the "bare minimum" God might expect. 
 
To the demands of the law, there are always limitations and exceptions …./ But to the claims of love, there are limits or exceptions/  And such a concept as "limits" makes no sense to one who loves.
 
"A basic mistake in earthly wisdom is to think of life in terms of the law, instead of love. If we love a person deeply, passionately, humbly and selflessly, we will be quite sure that (in a poetic sense) if we were to give that person all we possessed, we would still be in default; if we gave that person the sun, the moon and the stars, we would still be in debt, (a willing debt of love, that is !)/ 'One who is in love is always in debt'; The last thing that enters their mind is that they have earned a reward or can demand a response. If a person has a legalistic view of life, they may constantly think in terms of the reward that has been won and what is "owed" to them;/ But, if a person has a loving view of life, the idea of reward would be jarring. …. (Again, here I think of parents… They love their children unconditionally… They give because they love… If they were doing it for reward or expecting the balance sheet one day to be truly "evened up"…., they will most certainly be waiting a long time !…… but that is not how a loving parent acts… and God does not think that way either… 
 
(Jesus invites us to enter into this mindset deeper and deeper each day). 
 
How much is sufficient? how much is enough? when given to one's beloved?…..
(how long is a piece of string?) …. It is a different way of seeing the world…"# 
 
So, Are we ready for this astounding invitation from today's Gospel?"A person will be perfect ('Telios') (GSN5046) …. (or to put it more precisely… "mature and fit for the purpose for which we were created)," when we reflect the image and likeness of God, (for that is what God intended from the beginning of creation) (The Book of Genesis).
 
God's qualities are universal benevolence and kindness, unconquerable goodwill, 
and Constant seeking of the highest good of every person. 
God is love and shows love (to the saint and to the sinner alike). 
No matter what people do in response, God seeks nothing but their highest good. 
 
Jesus is laying down three great rules—(which I feel anxious to lay down without watering it down or explaining it away, even though it calls us to go deeper than is comfortable or familiar)….The Christian avoids resentment or retaliation for insults 
(no matter how deliberate), returning kindness and reverence in the face of injury. 
 
The Christian does not stand or fall upon their legal rights or on any other rights they may believe themselves to possess; The Christian thinks not about their right to do as they like but rather always think of our duty to be of help and to do good work with all our ability for the glory of God. We cannot achieve this alone. This can ONLY be achieved when the grace and love of God abide in us and flows outwards into actions of kindness, mercy and compassion. "When we love, we are a sign and sacrament of the Kingdom of God… And, Jesus says to us:  'Love !, (not as others love but as I love), and BE that SIGN!"   
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References:

Fr Paul W. Kelly; 

Strong's Biblical Concordance: HelpsBible.com. copyright © 1987, 2011 by Helps Ministries, Inc;

# Barclay, W. (1975). The Gospel of MATTHEW. 2nd ed. Edinburgh: St. Andrew Press; 

Cronin, G. (2003). Celebrating the Gospels. 1st ed. Liguori, Mo.: Liguori; 

DeBona, G. (2013). Between the Ambo and the altar. 1st ed. Minnesota: Liturgical Press; 

Hodge, Vincent.  Note on the Greek word for "Temple," used in 1 Corinthians 3:17; also see http://www.godrules.net/library/strongs2b/gre3485.htm  

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Photo ID: 722119933 - Jesus christ crucifix cross on heaven sunrise - Christianity -Mercy - Forgiveness -  Love -  Giving -   Photo Contributor: Art Stocker


Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A  (Sunday, February 19, 2023) (EPISODE- 407)

The Lord be with you.
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{{thank you so much for taking this time with me to listen to God's word and for praising God for his goodness and care.}}

Brothers and sisters, as we prepare ourselves to celebrate the Lord's supper, let us recall our sins and acknowledge them in silence.
Lord Jesus, you raise us to new life: Lord, have mercy// //Lord Jesus, you forgive us our sins:Christ, have mercy//Lord Jesus, you feed us with your body and blood:Lord, have mercy//
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
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Ps 103:1-2, 3-4, 8+10, 12-13. "The Lord is kind and merciful."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (1 John 2:5). Alleluia, alleluia! Whoever keeps the word of Christ, grows perfect in the love of God.
Memorial Acclamation
1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
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PREFACE: Sundays Ordinary VI
Eucharistic Prayer III

(theme variation:  1)

(welcome cycle-   (welcome 7) Good evening/morning. It is wonderful to gather together as members of God's family. Parishioners and visitors alike. We are all united as Our lord's family. We hope you feel very welcome. Please check to see that your mobile devices are switched off or turned to silent.  Our Presider tonight / today is Fr………………………… Please stand as we sing our entrance hymn: "__________" *)

(pre+post variation: v1-long)
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{thank you so much for taking this time with me to listen to God's word and for praising God for his goodness and care.}

Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord.

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Archive of homilies and reflections:  http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au
To contact Fr. Paul, please email:  paulwkelly68@gmail.com

To listen to my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here:  https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks

You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by sending an email to this address:       Subscribe to mailing list to keep up-to-date

Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog:
"Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection"  - Led by Rev Paul Kelly

Prayers and chants  — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL)

Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989,  and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA)

"The Psalms" ©1963, 2009,  The Grail - Collins publishers.

Prayers of the Faithful -   " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'.   E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993) . (Sydney Australia).

Sung "Mass In Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" -  By Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The Gloria,  Copyright © 2011 ccwatershed.org.

- "Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - in memory of  William John Kelly -     Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

"Quiet Time."  Instrumental Reflection music. Written by Paul W Kelly. 1988, 2007. & This arrangement: Stefan Kelk, 2020.

- "Today I Arise" - For Trisha J Kelly.  Original words and music by Paul W. Kelly. Inspired by St Patrick's Prayer.  Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

Sound Engineering and editing -  P.W. Kelly.

Microphones: -      Shure MV5 Digital Condenser (USB)

Editing equipment:    NCH software - MixPad Multitrack Studio Recording Software
NCH – WavePad Audio Editing Software. Masters Edition v 12.44

Sound Processing:  iZotope RX 6 Audio Editor

[Production -  KER -  2023]
May God bless and keep you.
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Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, February 12, 2023 (EPISODE- 406)

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, February 12, 2023 (EPISODE- 406)

Readings for Sunday, February 12, 2023 - Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A
FIRST READING: Sir 15:16-21 (diff)
Ps 119:1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34. "Happy are they who follow the law of the Lord."
SECOND READING: 1 Cor 2:6-10
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Matt 11:25). Alleluia, alleluia! Blessed are you, Father, Lord of Heaven and earth. You have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.
GOSPEL: Matt 5:17-37 or 5:20-22a, 27-28, 33-34a, 37

 
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed.Stock Photo ID: 2105703446.  Judaic - prophet - faith -church - Talmud law space.  Photo Contributor: ArtMari
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily), for Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, February 12, 2023, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-sixth-sunday-of-ordinary-time-year-a-episode-406  (EPISODE-406 )
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Our Lord turns the heat up in this weekend's readings.   He really lays things on the line...   We have been given real freedom, so there are no excuses.  We are called to be children of God, not petty rule-makers or breakers.  The Lord wants to share his heart with us...   wants to implant his love deep in our souls....   and from that, true discipleship flows....  which reaches out, gives, includes and helps.....  

 
While Mahatma Gandhi was a practising Hindu, Christianity intrigued him greatly. In his reading of the Gospels, Gandhi was deeply impressed by Jesus. He wanted to know more about this Jesus that Christians referred to as "the Christ, the Messiah."
 
One Sunday morning, Gandhi decided that he would visit one of the Christian churches in Calcutta. Upon seeking entrance to the church, he was stopped at the door by the ushers.
 
He was told he was not welcome, nor would he be permitted to attend this particular church as it was for either "high-caste Indians or  whites only." He fitted neither of those narrow descriptions. Because of the rejection, the Mahatma turned his back on Christianity, saying:  'If it weren't for Christians, I'd be a Christian?' (%%)
 
Sadly, this is another in the list of history's all-too-many examples of Christians becoming a stumbling block for those trying to approach Christ.  An unspeakable tragedy that repeats itself far too often.  Even to this day, we have to be so vigilant against being unchristian Christians.
 
This can happen in considerable ways, and also in small but still quite devastating...  and the results can be the same...  the contradiction witnessed by observers; between the love from God (on the one hand) and the legalism and the harshness of some of God's disciples (on the other), can be a real "turn-off."
 
  (I am sure many of us can blush when we recall times when we modelled the complete opposite of Christ's loving message in our own actions and reactions. These contradictions are a trap into which any one of us can fall. The Lord doesn't want us to lose heart or give up but warns us to be very wary and constantly on our guard against our contradictions and to repent and work with God's grace to reshape our attitudes without delay). And save us, Lord, from acting opposite to your ways and not even seeing the contradiction!  Christ didn't preach, heal, forgive,  suffer, die and rise again for that kind of self-indulgence and lack of self-awareness.
 
Today's Gospel is summed up beautifully in this quote from the British writer Michael Green: "(God's) Law is not the limit of obedience;  rather, it is the springboard from which we dive into the (wonderful, refreshing, life-giving and deep waters of) love and devotion to Our Lord. The Law of God is the "curbing" along the road of love."1.  (paraphrased). We don't spend all our time looking at the sides of the road but by travelling wonderfully down the centre lane of this highway of God's love.
 
The law was never meant to be the end in itself but rather a distillation and expression of God's values. When people only focus on the letter of the law or outward observances, they are completely missing the point.
 
Jesus was warning the Pharisees that this is precisely what they have ended up doing. They had yet to go deeper into the meaning and Spirit behind the law, so they had become hollow. The "Pharisees" are not just those who opposed Jesus 2000 years ago...  Not merely the actual Pharisees living like hypocrites, but this group also represent anyone - even today...  even within our Christian faith tradition, who keeps outward observances whilst their hearts (and attitudes) remain far from the Lord. Our Lord preaches to the Pharisees of this day and even the pharisee that might be lurking away in our own hearts.
 
God's wise saying to us in the first reading is quite powerful. God says, 'Of course, I have given you true freedom. You are free to touch the cool water.. it will feel cool…. And you are free to touch your hand to the flame if you want. but beware… choosing to touch fire will burn you. So choose wisely.. choose the good… avoid the harmful. Use your freedom to choose life and choose God's ways. At the heart of God's desire for us is to walk the paths for our good and avoid any avenues that will prove harmful to us.
 
Jesus is calling his disciples to learn the meaning and purpose of God's law and not merely its outward expressions or legalistic constraints.   We hope that God will grant us the wisdom to discern the loving-kindness and compassion behind the rules and regulations and apply ourselves to that love.
 
Jesus is inviting us to never just settle for the outer shell of observance but rather dive deeply into being loving disciples who live genuinely as a son or a daughter of God amongst many siblings.
 
"love of God and Love of neighbour is the one law that admits no exception!  Furthermore, all other laws must be held against the litmus test of how they apply this overarching law of LOVE."
 
So, it is not good enough to keep the commandments by 'not killing anyone' because we also must strive not to have anger and uncharitable thoughts against our brother or sister. It is not sufficient to say, "I have never actually been unfaithful" when it is possible to break the spirit of this command by being disrespectful in how we look at others — or how it's sadly possible to treat others as objects, devoid of their personhood, what a parody one could make of God's law by limiting it only to extremes l, or diluting it with endless lists of curious observances.
 
It is not good enough to do everything in the "name of Jesus" if our everyday 'yes' is unreliable or our 'no' does not mean what it says. _this particular passage really interests me more than ever...  a simple yes or no is powerful, but a yes or a no with additional extra added explanations, reasons or comments.... are quite often little more than excuses, fibs, self-justifications or gripes. So truly, our yes needs to be yes, and our no, no...  No more, no less.
 
And, even more challenging, the readings today remind us that we should never blame God for our own failings: "Do not say it is the Lord's doing that I fell away." These are merely excuses that try to remove our own adult, free responsibility. Whilst we have real freedom, we are reminded quite sharply by this weekend's scriptures: The Lord never permitted people to sin or to ignore his laws.
 
Yes, God has given us true freedom, but this is a freedom to live God's law and to act responsibly, maturely,  and lovingly.

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References:

Fr Paul W. Kelly; 

(%%) [ By LAMA CHUCK STANFORD and ARVIND KHETIA.  Article - APRIL 17, 2015 07:00 AM:  from https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.kansascity.com/living/religion/article18756585.html   ];   Also referenced in Link, M. (1992). Vision.  Year A. Allen, Tex.: Tabor Pub; 

My Daily Visitor (Our Sunday Visitor); 

Break Open the Word
 
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed.Stock Photo ID: 2105703446.  Judaic - prophet - faith -church - Talmud law space.  Photo Contributor: ArtMari


To listen to the Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) -  https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks
 
Also found at -   https://tinyurl.com/FHLpwk


Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A  (Sunday, February 12, 2023) (EPISODE- 406)

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
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{{my heartfelt thanks for your participation in this time of reflection, prayer and praise.}}

As one family in Christ, let us prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries by calling to mind our sins.
Lord Jesus, you are the image of the unseen God: Lord, have mercy.//You are the firstborn of all creation: Christ, have mercy//You are the head of the body, the Church: Lord, have mercy//
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
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Ps 119:1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34. "Happy are they who follow the law of the Lord."

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (cf. Matt 11:25). Alleluia, alleluia! Blessed are you, Father, Lord of Heaven and earth. You have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.
Memorial Acclamation
3. Save us, Saviour of the world, for by your Cross and Resurrection you have set us free.
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PREFACE: Sundays Ordinary V
Euch Prayer II

(theme variation:  4)

(welcome cycle-   (welcome 6) Good evening/morning. Welcome to this Eucharist as we celebrate the NNN Sunday in SSSSSS. For all who are celebrating special events at this time, may God's blessing and care be deeply experienced for you and your families. Please check to see that your mobile devices are switched off or turned to silent.  Our Presider tonight / today is Fr………………………… Please stand as we sing our entrance hymn: "__________" *)

(pre+post variation: v2-long)
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{my heartfelt thanks for your participation in this time of reflection, prayer and praise.}

Go forth, the Mass is ended.

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Archive of homilies and reflections:  http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au
To contact Fr. Paul, please email:  paulwkelly68@gmail.com

To listen to my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here:  https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks

You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by sending an email to this address:       Subscribe to mailing list to keep up-to-date

Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog:
"Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection"  - Led by Rev Paul Kelly

Prayers and chants  — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL)

Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989,  and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA)

"The Psalms" ©1963, 2009,  The Grail - Collins publishers.

Prayers of the Faithful -   " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'.   E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993) . (Sydney Australia).

Sung "Mass In Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" -  By Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The Gloria,  Copyright © 2011 ccwatershed.org.

- "Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - in memory of  William John Kelly -     Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

"Quiet Time."  Instrumental Reflection music. Written by Paul W Kelly. 1988, 2007. & This arrangement: Stefan Kelk, 2020.

- "Today I Arise" - For Trisha J Kelly.  Original words and music by Paul W. Kelly. Inspired by St Patrick's Prayer.  Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

Sound Engineering and editing -  P.W. Kelly.

Microphones: -      Shure MV5 Digital Condenser (USB)

Editing equipment:    NCH software - MixPad Multitrack Studio Recording Software
NCH – WavePad Audio Editing Software. Masters Edition v 12.44

Sound Processing:  iZotope RX 6 Audio Editor

[Production -  KER -  2023]
May God bless and keep you.
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Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, February 5, 2023 (EPISODE- 405)

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, February 5, 2023 (EPISODE- 405)

Readings for Sunday, February 5, 2023 - Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A

FIRST READING: Isa 58:7-10
Ps 112:4-5, 6-7, 8-9. "A Light rises in the darkness for the upright."
SECOND READING: 1 Cor 2:1-5
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 8:12). Alleluia, alleluia! I am the light of the world, says the Lord. The man who follows me will have the light of life.
GOSPEL: Matt 5:13-16

Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Vector ID: 297360155 - Vector : Christ the Redeemer vector background - Vector Contributor: anueing
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily), for Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, February 5, 2023, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-fifth-sunday-of-ordinary-time-year-a-episode-405  (EPISODE- 405)
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According to the gospel this weekend...  we are called to be "good-for-something"  -  real and active ingredients in the mix of life.....  not just unfathomable religious observers who undertake mysterious repetitions of rituals without any reference to the world around us and have no impact on the lives of those around us, especially those in need.  No, Jesus came to show us that being part of the family of God is something that all are invited into, and authentic service of God has real and practical effects on the welfare of those around us.  We are called to be Salt, Light and a City...    

The three images in the gospel are powerful this weekend...   

We are to be Salt...  Light... and a City built on a hilltop.......    

It is interesting that all three of these images are not self-serving. the purpose of these three things is to serve the needs of others....    salt adds flavour to food...  light helps show the way... and a city gathers a community together, shares resources and skills and supports the good of all.  So too, the Kingdom of God..  it is not for what i can get out of it, but rather, what i can give to God and others.

Salt is really only is useful when its mixed with food or water....  or interacts with food..  to flavour, preserve and purify it...  Our faith only makes sense when it mixes in with practical actions and loving care and charity.  

In different parts of the different gospels, there is a similar idea used by our Lord,  our identity and the Kingdom of God is involved with being mixed well into the rest...  whether its salt mixed into food... or -  leaven kneaded into the dough... both give that image of really immersing oneself into life and mixing in with it and lifting it to new levels...  transforming it - for the better.

In the first reading, we have the question: What kind of fasting pleases you most, O God?  And the Lord answers ...  A true and pleasing fast - is shown by feeding the hungry; helping the homeless; clothing the naked;  loosening the unjust bonds that tie up the poor; breaking yokes and freeing from slavery;  and stopping speaking badly of others, an end to gossiping and slandering others...   avoiding any hateful speech,  refraining from pointing fingers.  

Jesus shows us a vision of the Kingdom that involves practical kindness and care of others and contributing to the raising of dignity and the increase of compassion.

Light guides our steps and draws us to safety,..      and of course, a vast, attractive, welcoming city on a hill cannot be hidden...  It is seen by all and inspires and draws people to it.  

If any of God's servants spent their days performing the actions of the disciple but like someone who is 'play-acting'  or 'going through the motions,' we would be as useless and as stale salt and unhelpful as a light never turned on.  and as uninspiring and repulsive as a city, hidden away and unwelcoming.  

If Our Lord's disciples and his church are meant to be like a "lighthouse,"  then the following excellent quote makes a lot of sense...  "Lighthouses don't primarily blow horns... they just shine...."  - so the shining light of their example is much of a guide and inspiration than a whole lot of hot air and noise... 

In the second reading, we again see the instruction that it is essential that we put our hope and dependence on God and not merely our human willpower, strength or ambitions. We are disciples of the Kingdom of God. we are not here to build up the Kingdom of "self."

This weekend's readings clearly point us to how we live our discipleship.  "To be generous, merciful and to share of oneself, a sharing that hurts,  and can be a cross to carry... " But with God's grace, we can be that disciple...  Salt, Light, and a City built on a hill!
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References:
Fr Paul W. Kelly;

Kersten, J. (2013). New-- St. Joseph Sunday missal Canadian Edition. New Jersey: Catholic Book Publishing Corp., p.p.215; Link, M. (1992). Vision.  Year A. Allen, Tex.: Tabor Pub.
 
Image Credit- Shutterstock Licensed. Stock Vector ID: 297360155 - Vector: Christ the Redeemer vector background - Vector Contributor: anueing

To listen to the Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) -  https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks  
 
Also found at -   https://tinyurl.com/FHLpwk


Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A  (Sunday, February 5, 2023) (EPISODE- 405)

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (or/ The Lord be with You)
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{{I am very grateful for you joining us for this special time of prayer and reflection.}}

Coming together as brothers and sisters in Christ, let us pause and reflect upon our sins, in order to celebrate the Holy Eucharist.
Lord Jesus, you have revealed yourself as the way to the Father: Lord, have mercy//You have poured out on your people the Spirit of truth: Christ, have mercy//You are the Good Shepherd, leading us to eternal life: Lord, have mercy.//
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
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Ps 112:4-5, 6-7, 8-9. "A Light rises in the darkness for the upright"

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (John 8:12). Alleluia, alleluia! I am the light of the World says the Lord. The man who follows me will have the light of life.
Memorial Acclamation
2. When we eat this Bread and drink this Cup, we proclaim your Death, O Lord, until you come again.
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PREFACE: Sundays Ordinary IV
Euch prayer III

(theme variation:  3)

(welcome cycle-   (welcome 5) Good evening/morning. Welcome to this Eucharist as we celebrate the NNN Sunday in SSSSSS. To all visitors to our parish, you are most welcome and may this be a peaceful and special time for you. Please check to see that your mobile devices are switched off or turned to silent.  Our Presider tonight/today is Fr………………………… Please stand as we sing our entrance hymn: "__________" *)

(pre+post variation: v1-short)
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{I am very grateful for you joining us for this special time of prayer and reflection.}

Go in peace.(glorifying the Lord by your life)

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Archive of homilies and reflections:  http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au
To contact Fr. Paul, please email:  paulwkelly68@gmail.com

To listen to my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here:  https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks

You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by sending an email to this address:       Subscribe to mailing list to keep up-to-date

Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog:
"Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection"  - Led by Rev Paul Kelly

Prayers and chants  — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL)

Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989,  and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA)

"The Psalms" ©1963, 2009,  The Grail - Collins publishers.

Prayers of the Faithful -   " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'.   E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993) . (Sydney Australia).

Sung "Mass In Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" -  By Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The Gloria,  Copyright © 2011 ccwatershed.org.

- "Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - in memory of  William John Kelly -     Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

"Quiet Time."  Instrumental Reflection music. Written by Paul W Kelly. 1988, 2007. & This arrangement: Stefan Kelk, 2020.

- "Today I Arise" - For Trisha J Kelly.  Original words and music by Paul W. Kelly. Inspired by St Patrick's Prayer.  Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

Sound Engineering and editing -  P.W. Kelly.

Microphones: -      Shure MV5 Digital Condenser (USB)

Editing equipment:    NCH software - MixPad Multitrack Studio Recording Software
NCH – WavePad Audio Editing Software. Masters Edition v 12.44

Sound Processing:  iZotope RX 6 Audio Editor

[Production -  KER -  2023]
May God bless and keep you.
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Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, January 29, 2023 (EPISODE- 404)

(view of The Sea of Galilee from Mount Beatitudes)

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, January 29, 2023 (EPISODE- 404)

Readings for Sunday, January 29, 2023 - Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A

FIRST READING: Zeph 2:3; 3:12-13
Ps 146:6c-7, 8-9a, 9b-10. "happy the poor in spirit, the Kingdom of heaven is theirs!"
SECOND READING: 1 Cor 1:26-31
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Matt 5:12a). Alleluia, alleluia! Rejoice and be glad. Your reward will be great in Heaven.
GOSPEL: Matt 5:1-12a

Image Credit: P. Kelly – Mount Beatitudes. Near the Sea of Galilee.
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Please listen to the audio recordings of the Mass – (Readings, prayers, and homily), for Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A - Sunday, January 29, 2023, by clicking this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/faith-hope-and-love-fourth-sunday-of-ordinary-time-year-a-episode-404/s-mxjU6W6Aamc  (EPISODE- 404)
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This weekend we hear the wonderful Beatitudes. You can imagine and visualise our Lord teaching this message on a cool, breezy day on a steep mountain, where there's a beautiful natural amphitheatre running down to the Sea of Galilee in Israel, the site traditionally held to be the place of the Sermon of the Mount. It's a magnificent and peaceful setting. I've been at that place and it's so moving.

In the Beatitudes, reading the first of the blessed and arguably the key to all others, and the key to an enormously significant cornerstone to Christ's gospel is this blessed are those who know they are spiritually poor. The Greek word here is really powerful.

It doesn't just mean having to work with not much backing behind them, it means someone who's utterly destitute, crouching or cowering with no support at all. That is, when we admit our absolute need for God and let go of ego and surrender the idea of complete self-sufficiency, then we are truly open to God and God's kingdom and the life changing gospel of our Lord in so many instances in the scriptures. And we see it so many times in our lives too. How often does pride and ego get in the road of harmony and goodwill? 

How much damage does pride and ego do?

And how often?

In recent years, whenever I feel tempted to have hurt feelings over some perceived slight or misunderstanding, I pray to God to heal my pride and ego, which can be a terrible trap for any of us. It's almost counterintuitive, but I find whenever I recognise my lowliness, my need, my poverty of spirit, I feel strangely liberated. It takes the wind out of so many unnecessary worries and offended sensibilities, and perceived hurts and turns me back to God's grace and the support and sharing of those around me. 

The second reading backs this message up completely. Saint Paul says to the Corinthians can't you see?

Most of you in Corinth are not rich and famous or powerful or influential. You look down on by many in earthly society as being nothing special. But know this God is using those who know they have not much to commend them in this world because in reality, they are utterly open and receptive to the message and invitation of God's kingdom. 

You are best disposed to the fullness of God's grace, which the Lord wants to pour into your hearts and minds when you experience humility and spiritual poverty.

God is using the weak and those who are considered not wise by earthly standards to shame human wisdom. Christ taught us that it's very challenging for self-sufficient influential and self-righteous to detach themselves from earthly support structures and instead put their entire hope and trust in God's grace and love. This is the only thing that really lasts, the only thing that will never fail God's grace. The poor and the needy do it instinctively, for they simply have to throw themselves on God's mercy and grace, as they've been given nothing much else to help. But everyone well-off or destitute needs to similarly throw themselves on God's grace and mercy and they will indeed be enriched spiritually with the things that never fade.And, of course, those who are completely turned towards God and God's beloved children, (our sisters and brothers everywhere), are best suited to be able to reach out and help, (in very practical and compassionate ways) those who are in desperate need.

Jesus teaches us in this same sermon that whenever we recognise the dignity, uniqueness, different needs and qualities of all others. When we have empathy for others; and when we notice and feel for the pain of others. All who deeply care about the feelings of people around them and take their needs and feelings into consideration in our decisions and actions, blessed indeed are you! For you are acting just as Christ acts.

Whenever we show "ever-more-deeper" gentleness, kindness, and reverence to others, even when we might not agree on every issue, we become more and more Christ-like.

Blessed are they who long for the fullness of goodness and justice; the way a starving person hungers for food; the way someone thirsty craves desperately for water. They shall have their thirst quenched.

They who long for fairness and justice and want the "whole thing"… this is the person who knows it is not enough to be satisfied with a partial good. Blessed is the one who hungers and thirsts for goodness, which is complete.

This is not the same as unrealistic and fussy perfectionism. For a person of the beatitudes desires not cold and heartless self-righteousness or superiority; but neither would they settle for an insincere outward show of "pretend warm-heartedness" or goodness – but they long for the "real thing," -- to show true kindness and warm compassion, in all circumstances; -- which is to be found by God's grace alone.

And peacemakers; "re-builders" and 'repairers" -- people of forgiveness - who do not repay hurt for hurt … but rather return compassion and concern and pierced-sorrow, in the face of wrongs done to them or others…. Blessed are those who can Forgive (looking upon hurt and mistakes like a loving parent looks upon the hurts caused by the child they simply could never stop loving).

And may we accept forgiveness and be honest and constructive; always working for peace and harmony.

Something that "would make forgiveness and tolerance ever so much easier is one principle in life which we can sometimes lose sight of: - "There is always a reason why a person thinks and acts as they do. It may not make much sense to us, but there is some reason…. It may not always appear to be a good reason…. But if we knew the reasons people do what they do, it would be so much easier to understand and sympathise and forgive. There is a French saying that sums this up… "to know all, is to forgive all" - Or, as the novel War and Peace said, "the old man forgave much because he understood much."

We admit that we only know things partially and only God knows everything, which is why God is so very kind and merciful.

It's important for us to never forget that God, who knows all things, is also the One who is so full of kindness, compassion and mercy. We who know partly are sometimes very quick to judge and to condemn and very slow to forgive.

There must be a reason for that.

God forgives much because he knows much. Understands so much!

Finally, the Lord encourages and gives a new heart to all who do good, even when they're ridiculed or opposed for it. Stand strong, says the Lord. You will be proved to be on the right path, God's path, and you will be satisfied in full.

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References:

Fr Paul W. Kelly

THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW. Volume I. (Chapters 1 to 10). REVISED EDITION. Translated with an Introduction and Interpretation by WILLIAM BARCLAY. THE WESTMINSTER PRESS. PHILADELPHIA. Revised Edition Copyright (c) 1975;  Sharing The Word Through The Liturgical Year. by Gustavo Gutiérrez.  Published by Orbis Books ( November 1st 1997)

http://biblehub.com/interlinear/matthew/4.htm ;

Strong's biblical concordance and greek definitions: https://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?t=kjv&strongs=g2424    and other related Strong's Greek links.
 
Image Credit- Mount Beatitudes -  p. Kelly
To listen to the Sunday Mass each week (including homily) from Surfers Paradise Catholic Parish, please visit this link: Liturgy for you at Home (by SPCP) -  https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks  
 

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Year A  (Sunday, January 29, 2023) (EPISODE- 404)

The Lord be with you.
+++++++++++++
{{I gratefully acknoweldge and give thanks to God for your prayers at this time of prayer and reflection upon our God.}}

My brothers and sisters, to prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries, let us call to mind our sins.
Lord Jesus, you are mighty God and Prince of peace. Lord have mercy// You are Son of God and the Son of Mary. Christ have mercy// You are Word made flesh, the splendour of the Father. Lord have mercy.
May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.  Amen.
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Ps 146:6c-7, 8-9a, 9b-10. "happy the poor in spirit, the Kingdom of heaven is theirs!"

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION (Matt 5:12a). Alleluia, alleluia! Rejoice and be glad. Your reward will be great in Heaven.
Memorial Acclamation
1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
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PREFACE: Sundays Ordinary III
Euch Prayer II

(theme variation:  2)


(pre+post variation: v2-short)
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{I gratefully acknoweldge and give thanks to God for your prayers at this time of prayer and reflection upon our God.}

Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.

++++++++
Archive of homilies and reflections:  http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au
To contact Fr. Paul, please email:  paulwkelly68@gmail.com

To listen to my weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here:  https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks

You are welcome to subscribe to Fr Paul's homily mail-out by sending an email to this address:       Subscribe to mailing list to keep up-to-date

Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog:
"Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection"  - Led by Rev Paul Kelly

Prayers and chants  — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL)

Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989,  and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA)

"The Psalms" ©1963, 2009,  The Grail - Collins publishers.

Prayers of the Faithful -   " Together we pray" by Robert Borg'.   E.J. Dwyer, Publishers, (1993) . (Sydney Australia).

Sung "Mass In Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" -  By Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The Gloria,  Copyright © 2011 ccwatershed.org.

- "Faith, Hope and Love" theme hymn - in memory of  William John Kelly -     Inspired by 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Music by Paul W. Kelly. Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

"Quiet Time."  Instrumental Reflection music. Written by Paul W Kelly. 1988, 2007. & This arrangement: Stefan Kelk, 2020.

- "Today I Arise" - For Trisha J Kelly.  Original words and music by Paul W. Kelly. Inspired by St Patrick's Prayer.  Arranged and sung, with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2019.

Sound Engineering and editing -  P.W. Kelly.

Microphones: -      Shure MV5 Digital Condenser (USB)

Editing equipment:    NCH software - MixPad Multitrack Studio Recording Software
NCH – WavePad Audio Editing Software. Masters Edition v 12.44

Sound Processing:  iZotope RX 6 Audio Editor

[Production -  KER -  2023]
May God bless and keep you.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++