Eternal Will

 

"The world and its desires 

pass away, 

but whoever does 

the will of God 

lives forever." 

(1 John 2:17)

The desires and attractions of the world are temporary and will eventually fade away. We should focus on what truly matters and not be swayed by fleeting pleasures.

Those who do the will of God will live forever. Understanding that doing God's will leads to eternal life gives us a sense of purpose and direction. It motivates us to live with intention and strive to fulfill God's plan for our lives.

The contrast between worldly desires and doing God's will highlights the need to prioritize spiritual values over materialistic pursuits. This encourages us to cultivate a deeper relationship with God and live according to His principles. Let align our lives with God's will and seek His guidance in all that we do.

Reflecting on this verse can inspire us to focus on what truly matters, align our lives with God's will, prioritize spiritual values, and live with purpose. 

The world and its desires fade, 

Like shadows in the evening shade. 

But those who seek the will of God, 

Find eternal life, a path well-trod.

In fleeting pleasures, we may stray, 

Yet God's true purpose lights our way. 

For in His will, we find our place, 

A life of love, a gift of grace.

The world may pass, its glories dim, 

But those who trust and follow Him, 

Will live forever, in His light, 

Eternal day, no more night.

Lord Jesus, 

We come before You with humble hearts, acknowledging the impermanence of this world and its desires. Help us to focus on what truly matters, and to seek Your will in all that we do.

Grant us the wisdom to recognize the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits, and the strength to prioritize Your eternal promises. May we live our lives in alignment with Your will, finding purpose and fulfillment in Your divine plan.

Guide us in our journey of faith and help us to remain steadfast and faithful. May we trust in Your guidance and embrace the eternal life You offer, living each day with a heart devoted to You.

Amen.

Pericope:

MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY

1 John 2:12-17

First Reading | 1 John 2:12-17

12 I am writing to you, children, because your sins have been forgiven for his name’s sake. 13 I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have conquered the evil one. 14 I write to you, children, because you know the Father. I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I write to you, young men, because you are strong and the word of God remains in you, and you have conquered the evil one. 15 Do not love the world or the things of the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, sensual lust, enticement for the eyes, and a pretentious life, is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 Yet the world and its enticement are passing away. But whoever does the will of God remains forever. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

December 30, 2024, 7:08 AM

Do What the Law Requires

Gospel

Luke 2:22-35

22 When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, the parents of Jesus took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, 23 just as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord, 24 and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord. 25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. 27 He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, 28 he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying: 29 “Lord, now let your servant go in peace, your word has been fulfilled: 30 my own eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you prepared in sight of all the peoples, 32 a light for revel you to the nations, and glory for your people Israel.” 33 The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; 34 and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted 35 (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

Historical Background

This passage takes place in the Jerusalem Temple about forty days after Jesus’ birth. Jewish law stipulates two requirements: *purification after childbirth* (Leviticus 12) and the *presentation of the firstborn son* (Exodus 13).  Every firstborn male belonged to the Lord and had to be consecrated.

The offering of two turtledoves or pigeons shows that Mary and Joseph were poor—an early sign that Jesus enters the world in humility and simplicity.

In the Temple, they meet Simeon, a righteous and devout man who had been waiting for the “consolation of Israel.” The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would not die before seeing the Messiah. When he sees Jesus, he recognizes Him instantly and proclaims the famous canticle Nunc Dimittis.

Theological Context

Jesus as fulfillment of the Law Even as an infant, He is already the meeting point between God’s promises and Israel’s hopes.

The Holy Spirit’s active role Simeon is guided, inspired, and moved by the Spirit—showing that the Messiah’s arrival is a Spirit-filled event.

Universal salvation Simeon declares Jesus “a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory for Israel.” Salvation is not limited to one people; it is for all nations.

Prophecy of suffering Simeon tells Mary that a “sword will pierce your own soul.” The shadow of the Cross appears even in the joy of the Presentation.

Learning Lessons

God fulfills His promises, sometimes quietly and slowly. Recognizing Jesus requires openness of heart.

Holiness is often found in ordinary obedience. Joy and suffering often coexist in the Christian journey. 

Reflection for the Day

Maybe today is an invitation to wait with hope, to show up faithfully in the ordinary and to let the Holy Spirit nudge our hearts toward recognition. This is the time to trust that even when life holds both joy and sorrow, Christ is present in all of it.

Light in the Waiting

In the hush of the Temple courts,  

an old man lifts a child—  

and time itself exhales.

Promises ripen in his trembling hands,  

a lifetime of longing  

suddenly warm and breathing.

Light has come,  

not with thunder,  

but with the softness of a mother’s arms.

And somewhere deep within,  

a sword begins its silent shape—  

love always carves its mark.

O Christ,  

in my waiting,  

let me recognize You  

when You come quietly.

Prayer to our Lord Jesus Christ

Lord Jesus, 

You who were carried into the Temple in humility, shine Your light into the hidden corners of my life. Teach me to wait with the patience of Simeon and to welcome Your presence with the openness of Mary. 

When joy and sorrow mingle in my journey, hold my heart steady in Your peace. Let Your Spirit guide my steps today, that I may see You, love You, and follow You in every ordinary moment. 

Amen.

Pericope

II: The Infancy Narrative

THE PRESENTATION IN THE TEMPLE

Luke 2:22-35

Gospel Acclamation 

A light of revelation to the Gentiles and glory for your people Israel.

Reflection Source

Conversation with Copilot

 

Not One Shall Perish

Gospel

Matthew 18:12-14

12 Jesus said to his disciples: “What is your opinion? If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go in search of the stray? 13 And if he finds it, amen, I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety-nine that did not stray. 14 In just the same way, it is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost.”

Historical Background

This passage is part of the “Discourse on the Church”  where Jesus teaches about humility, care for the “little ones,” and reconciliation within the community.

In first-century Palestine, shepherding was a common occupation. Sheep were highly vulnerable to predators and accidents, so the shepherd’s vigilance was crucial. Jesus uses this familiar image to illustrate God’s protective love.

Some Jewish sects emphasized strict separation and exclusion of those who strayed. Jesus, however, presents a radically inclusive vision: God pursues the lost rather than discarding them.

Theological Context

The parable highlights that every soul matters. The shepherd’s joy over the one recovered sheep reflects God’s joy when a sinner repents.

The “little ones” are not only children but also those marginalized or weak in faith. The Church is called to embody God’s shepherding love.

Learning Lessons

God values every single person and actively seeks out those who are lost. The passage emphasizes divine compassion, the dignity of each soul, and the Father’s will that none should perish.

Each person is precious in God's eyes. God's unwillingness for any to perish reflects His compassionate nature and His immense love and care for every individual, especially the vulnerable and innocent. 

Jesus encourages us to emulate the Father’s compassion in our interactions with others, showing kindness and understanding. He emphasizes the value of every life, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. He teaches us to respect and cherish all people, recognizing their inherent worth.

As followers of Christ, we are called to protect and care for the "little ones" in our communities. This includes children, the marginalized, and those in need of guidance and support.

Reflecting on this verse can inspire us to appreciate God's love, value every life, practice compassion, and take responsibility for protecting and nurturing those around us. 

Reflection for the Day

This passage invites us to examine how we treat those who falter or stray. Do we dismiss them, or do we imitate the Good Shepherd by seeking them out with patience and compassion?

If you feel lost or overlooked, remember that God actively searches for you. His joy is greatest when you are restored.

Today, reflect on someone in your life who may feel forgotten or excluded. A simple act of kindness or reconciliation can mirror the shepherd’s pursuit and embody the Father’s will that none should perish.

In the Father's heart, a love so deep, 

For every soul, His promises keep. 

In heaven's care, no one is small, 

His grace extends to one and all.

Not one shall perish, His will is clear, 

For every child, He holds so dear. 

With tender mercy, He guides the way, 

To bring them home, where they can stay.

In every valley, through every storm, 

His love remains, a shelter warm. 

For in His eyes, each life is bright, 

A precious gem, a guiding light.

So trust in Him, and do not fear, 

For in His arms, He holds us near. 

With faith and hope, we journey on, 

To find our place in heaven's dawn.

Lord Jesus, 

We come before You with grateful hearts, knowing that our Father in heaven Is not willing that any of these little ones should perish.

Grant us Your divine protection and care, especially for the vulnerable and innocent among us. Help us to reflect Your love and compassion, guiding and nurturing those in need.

May we always be mindful of the value of every life and strive to protect and uplift those who are lost or struggling. Fill our hearts with Your grace and wisdom, so that we may be instruments of Your peace and love.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: Jesus, the Kingdom, and the Church

THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SHEEP

Matthew 18:10-14

Gospel Acclamation

The day of the Lord is near: Behold, he comes to save us.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

December 10, 2024, 5:32 AM   

Do the Will of the Father

Gospel:
Matthew 7:21-29

21 Jesus said to his disciples: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name? Did we not drive out demons in your name? Did we not do mighty deeds in your name?’ 23 Then I will declare to them solemnly, ‘I never knew you. Depart from me, you evildoers.’ 24 “Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. 25 The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock. 26 And everyone who listens to these words of mine but does not act on them will be like a fool who built his house on sand. 27 The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. And it collapsed and was completely ruined.” 28 When Jesus finished these words, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, 29 for he taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes. 

True security comes from a genuine relationship with Christ. Jesus emphasizes that merely calling Him “Lord” is not enough. True discipleship involves doing the will of the Father. Our faith must be reflected in our actions and obedience to God’s commands. In examining our own lives and faith. Are we truly living according to God’s will, or are we merely professing faith without genuine commitment? Self-reflection helps us ensure that our faith is authentic and not self-deceptive.

The parable of the wise and foolish builders illustrates the importance of building our lives on the solid foundation of Jesus’ teachings. When we apply His words in our lives, we can withstand life’s challenges and remain steadfast in our faith. Many will claim to have done great works in His name but will be turned away because they did not truly know Him. 

The passage concludes with the crowd’s amazement at Jesus’ authority. This reminds us of the power and authority of His words, encouraging us to take His teachings seriously and apply them in our lives.

True Security

True security comes from Christ alone, 

Not just in words, but actions shown. 

To call Him “Lord” is not enough, 

Our faith must be in deeds, not bluff.

True discipleship, the Father’s will, 

In obedience, our hearts are still. 

Reflecting on our lives each day, 

Are we walking in His way?

The wise and foolish builders’ tale, 

On solid rock, we must prevail. 

Applying Jesus’ words so true, 

In life’s storms, He sees us through.

Great works in His name, some will claim, 

Yet without knowing Him, it’s all in vain. 

His authority, the crowd amazed, 

In His teachings, our lives are raised.

So let us heed His words with care, 

In every moment, everywhere. 

For true security, we find, 

In Christ alone, heart and mind.

Lord Jesus, 

Our true security, we come before you with humility, not just in words, but in our deeds. Help us to follow where your Spirit leads.

You remind us, calling You “Lord” is not enough, True discipleship requires more than just a bluff. May our faith be reflected in actions true, in obedience to the Father’s will, we pursue. As we examine our lives and faith each day, guide us to walk in your righteous way. Help us to live according to your will, with genuine commitment, our hearts to fill. Like the wise builder on solid ground, in your teachings, may our lives be found. When life’s challenges come our way, keep us steadfast, come what may.

Many may claim great works in your name, but without knowing you, it’s all in vain. Grant us the grace to truly know You, in every moment, in all we do. Your authority, the crowd amazed, in Your power, our hearts are raised. Help us to take your words to heart, and from your teachings, never depart.

Lord Jesus, we seek your face, in your love and truth, we find our place. Guide us, lead us, every day, In your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Proclamation of the Kingdom

THE TRUE DISCIPLE/ THE TWO FOUNDATIONS

Matthew 7:21-23/24-29

Gospel Acclamation

Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him and we will come to him.

Background:

Matthew 7:21-29 is a powerful passage that concludes Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. This section is divided into two parts:

Verses 21-23: Jesus warns about the danger of merely professing faith without genuine obedience. He emphasizes that not everyone who calls Him “Lord” will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of His Father. This highlights the importance of aligning one’s actions with their professed beliefs.

Verses 24-29: Jesus uses the parable of the wise and foolish builders to illustrate the importance of putting His teachings into practice. The wise builder, who builds his house on the rock, represents those who hear Jesus’ words and act on them. In contrast, the foolish builder, who builds his house on sand, represents those who hear but do not act. The stability of the house during storms symbolizes the steadfastness of a life built on obedience to Jesus’ teachings.

This passage underscores the necessity of genuine faith, which is demonstrated through obedience and righteous living. It serves as a reminder that true discipleship involves more than just verbal affirmation; it requires a life that reflects Jesus’ teachings.

Learning Lessons:

Matthew 7:21-29 offers several profound lessons that can deeply impact our faith and daily living:

Genuine Faith Requires Obedience: Jesus emphasizes that merely calling Him “Lord” is not enough. True discipleship involves doing the will of the Father. This teaches us that our faith must be reflected in our actions and obedience to God’s commands.

Self-Examination: The passage encourages us to examine our own lives and faith. Are we truly living according to God’s will, or are we merely professing faith without genuine commitment? This self-reflection helps ensure that our faith is authentic and not self-deceptive.

Foundation on Christ’s Teachings: The parable of the wise and foolish builders illustrates the importance of building our lives on the solid foundation of Jesus’ teachings. When we apply His words in our lives, we can withstand life’s challenges and remain steadfast in our faith.

Warning Against False Security: Jesus warns that many will claim to have done great works in His name but will be turned away because they did not truly know Him. This serves as a caution against relying on outward religious activities for assurance of salvation. True security comes from a genuine relationship with Christ.

Authority of Jesus’ Teachings: The passage concludes with the crowd’s amazement at Jesus’ authority. This reminds us of the power and authority of His words, encouraging us to take His teachings seriously and apply them in our lives.

Reflecting on these lessons can help deepen our understanding of what it means to follow Christ genuinely and faithfully. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

June 27, 2024, 8:33 AM

Jesus is your Brother

 

“Whoever does the will of God 

is my brother and sister and mother.” 

(Mark 3:35)

God's family is inclusive and open to everyone who believes and obeys. Our spiritual connections, rooted in faith and obedience to God's will, are as significant as our biological relationships.

True discipleship involves aligning our actions and decisions with God's purpose for our lives. We should prioritize our spiritual relationships and commitments focusing on our relationship with God and our spiritual community. Let us embrace and support our fellow believers as brothers and sisters in Christ.

In the circle of His grace, we stand, 

Bound by love, a holy band. 

Not by blood, but by His will, 

Our hearts united, calm and still.

Whoever follows God's command, 

Is family, by His hand. 

Brother, sister, mother dear, 

In His presence, always near.

Together, we fulfill His plan, 

In faith and love, we firmly stand. 

For in His will, we find our place, 

A family bound by His embrace.

Lord Jesus, 

You teach us that those who do the will of God Are our true family, bound by faith and love. Help us to follow Your path with devotion, To seek Your will in all that we do.

Guide us to be brothers and sisters in Your name, Supporting one another with compassion and grace. May we live as a family united in Your love, Honoring You in every step we take.

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Mystery of Jesus

JESUS AND HIS FAMILY

Mark 3:31-35

Gospel Acclamation

Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.

Gospel | Mark 3:31-35

31 The mother of Jesus and his brothers arrived at the house. Standing outside, they sent word to Jesus and called him. 32 A crowd seated around him told him, “Your mother and your brothers and your sisters are outside asking for you.” 33 But he said to them in reply, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” 34 And looking around at those seated in the circle he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. 35 For whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Do the Will of the Heavenly Father

In His Will

Jesus teaches, clear and bright,

Doing God’s will is our guiding light.

Above all bonds, our hearts align,

In God’s embrace, our spirits shine.

Seek His guidance, day by day,

In every step, in every way.

His spiritual family, we become,

United in faith, we are one.

Embrace each other, hand in hand,

Regardless of where we stand.

Beyond the surface, look and see,

The broader truths of you and me.

In every moment, big or small,

God’s principles, we heed the call.

Teach and learn, with hearts so pure,

In His love, we find our cure.

REFLECTION:

"Whoever does the will of my heavenly Father is my brother, and sister, and mother.” (Matthew 12:50)

Jesus teaches us that doing the will of God is paramount. This means that our relationship with God should take precedence over all other relationships. It encourages us to seek and follow God’s guidance in our daily lives. Those who follow God’s will are part of His spiritual family. We should embrace and support each other, regardless of our backgrounds, as we are all united in our faith. It is important to look beyond the surface and understand the broader implications of our actions and relationships. Let us be attentive to everyday moments and use them as opportunities to teach and learn about God’s principles.

Lord Jesus,

You teach us that doing the will of God is paramount.

Help us to place our relationship with You above all others,

Seeking and following Your guidance in our daily lives.

May we be part of Your spiritual family,

Embracing and supporting each other,

Regardless of our backgrounds,

United in our faith and love for You.

Grant us the wisdom to look beyond the surface,

To understand the broader implications of our actions and relationships.

Let us be attentive to everyday moments,

Using them as opportunities to teach and learn about Your principles.

Guide us, Lord, in Your truth and love,

That we may live righteously and draw closer to You each day.

Amen.

Pericope:

IV: Opposition from Israel

THE TRUE FAMILY OF JESUS

Matthew 12:46-50

Gospel Acclamation

Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him and we will come to him.

Gospel | Matthew 12:46-50

46 While Jesus was still speaking to the crowds, his mother and his brothers appeared outside, wishing to speak with him. 47 Someone told him, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, asking to speak with you.” 48 But he said in reply to the one who told him, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” 49 And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. 50 For whoever does the will of my heavenly Father is my brother, and sister, and mother.”

Background:

In Matthew 12:46-50, Jesus uses an opportunity to teach about the true nature of spiritual family. Here’s a brief background:

While Jesus was speaking to a crowd, His mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak with Him. Someone informed Jesus about their presence, but instead of going out to meet them, Jesus used the moment to make a significant point. He stretched out His hand toward His disciples and said, "Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother".

This passage highlights a few key points:

Spiritual Kinship: Jesus emphasizes that spiritual relationships, based on doing God’s will, are as important as biological ones.

Inclusivity: By referring to His disciples as His family, Jesus broadens the concept of family to include all who follow God’s will.

Teaching Moment: Jesus often used everyday situations to impart deeper spiritual truths, making His teachings relatable and impactful.

This teaching is also paralleled in Mark 3:31-35 and Luke 8:19-211.

Learning Lessons:

Matthew 12:46-50 offers several profound lessons that can be applied to our lives:

Prioritizing God’s Will: Jesus teaches that doing the will of God is paramount. This means that our relationship with God should take precedence over all other relationships. It encourages us to seek and follow God’s guidance in our daily lives.

Spiritual Family: Jesus redefines the concept of family, emphasizing that those who follow God’s will are part of His spiritual family. This reminds us that our faith community is an essential support system, and we should nurture these relationships with love and care.

Inclusivity and Unity: By extending the idea of family to all who do God’s will, Jesus promotes inclusivity and unity among believers. This lesson encourages us to embrace and support each other, regardless of our backgrounds, as we are all united in our faith.

Teaching Through Actions: Jesus often used real-life situations to impart spiritual truths. This passage shows the importance of being attentive to everyday moments and using them as opportunities to teach and learn about God’s principles.

Compassion and Understanding: Jesus’ response to His biological family waiting outside shows that He was not dismissing them but rather highlighting a deeper spiritual truth. It teaches us to look beyond the surface and understand the broader implications of our actions and relationships.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Do the Will of God

 "Whoever does the will of my heavenly Father 

is my brother, and sister, and mother.” 

MATTHEW 12 : 50

Do means to perform (an act, duty, role, etc.), to execute (a piece or amount of work), to act or conduct oneself; be in action; behave, to proceed. First recorded before 900; Middle English, Old English dōn; cognate with Dutch doen, German tun; akin to Latin -dere “to put,” facere “to make, do,” Greek tithénai “to set, put,” Sanskrit dadhāti “(he) puts”. (Dictionary.com)

The will of God or divine will is a concept found in the Hebrew Bible, the New Testament, and the Quran, according to which God's will is the first cause of everything that exists. According to Thomas Aquinas, God is the "Highest Good".The Summa Theologiae affirms that "God alone is good essentially". Because in Jesus Christ God there are two natures, the human and the divine one, Aquinas states that in Him there are two distinct wills: the human will and the divine will. (Wikipedia)

This is the will of God, your sanctification; that is, that you abstain from sexual immorality (1Th 4:3). Live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human lusts, but for the will of God (1Pe 4:2). For such is the will of God, that by doing right you silence the ignorance of foolish people (1Pe 2:15). Not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart (Eph 6:6).

For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as people, they may live in the spirit according to the will of God (1Pe 4:6). Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God are to entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right (1Pe 4:19).

He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God (Rom 8:27). And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect (Rom 12:2).

In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus (1Th 5:18). For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised (Heb 10:36).

Published:

July 21, 2023, 5:41 AM