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

Not One Shall Perish

 

"In the same way 

your Father in heaven 

is not willing 

that any of these 

little ones 

should perish." 

(Matthew 18:14)

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. 

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.

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.”

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

Do the Will of the Father

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.

REFLECTION:

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." (Matthew 7:21)

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.

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.

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. 

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

Align your Plans with God's Will

Align our plans with the Divine will,

"If the Lord wills, we shall climb this hill."

Not a definitive statement about our fate,

But a humble prayer, before it's too late.

Life is a vapor, a fleeting mist,

Here for a moment, then lost in the abyss.

A reminder stark of our transient stay,

Encouraging us to value each day.

In the dance of life, so unpredictable and free,

We craft our plans with hopeful glee.

Yet mindful we must be, as the future unfolds,

That life, like a river, never truly holds.

Our ambitions, our dreams, like ships setting sail,

Are subject to change with each passing gale.

Knowing what's right is but half the quest,

Action is needed to pass the test.

Inaction, neglect, when we know what's right,

Is a sin in itself, obscuring the light.

Humility is our guide, our steadfast friend,

Reminding us, we're not in control of the end.

Live wisely, live well, under the sun,

For life is uncertain, but beautifully spun.

Reflection and Prayer

You have no idea what your life will be like tomorrow. You are a puff of smoke that appears briefly and then disappears. Instead, you should say, “If the Lord wills it, we shall live to do this or that.”  (James 4:14-15)

Life is uncertain and unpredictable. We should be mindful of this when making plans and not assume that everything will go as we expect. Our plans and ambitions should always be made with an understanding that they are subject to change. 

Knowing what is right is not enough; we must also act on that knowledge. Inaction or neglect when we know what should be done is considered a sin. 

Let us be humble and recognize that we are not in control of everything. We should align our plans with God’s will. It teaches that we should say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and also do this or that” instead of making definitive statements about our future. 

The metaphor of life being a vapor or mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes is a reminder of the fleeting nature of human life. It encourages us to value our time and live wisely.

Dear Lord,

We acknowledge that life is uncertain and unpredictable. as we make our plans, help us to be mindful of this truth, and not to assume that everything will go as we expect. May our plans and ambitions always be made with an understanding, that they are subject to change according to Your divine will.

Lord, grant us the wisdom to know what is right, and the courage to act on that knowledge. Forgive us when we fall into inaction or neglect, especially when we know what should be done. Help us to be humble, recognizing that we are not in control of everything. Guide us to align our plans with Your will, and teach us to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and also do this or that,” instead of making definitive statements about our future.

Remind us, Lord, that life is but a vapor, a mist, appearing for a little while and then vanishing. Help us to value our time and live wisely, acknowledging the fleeting nature of human life.

In Your name we pray,

Amen.

Pericope

III: Exhortations and Warnings

WARNING AGAINST PRESUMPTION

James 4:13-17

First Reading | James 4:13-17

13 Beloved: Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we shall go into such and such a town, spend a year there doing business, and make a profit”— 14 you have no idea what your life will be like tomorrow. You are a puff of smoke that appears briefly and then disappears. 15 Instead you should say, “If the Lord wills it, we shall live to do this or that.” 16 But now you are boasting in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. 17 So for one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, it is a sin. 

Background:

James 4:13-17 is a passage in the New Testament of the Bible that provides guidance on how to approach life and make decisions. The passage emphasizes the importance of humility and recognizing our mortality and the uncertainty of life. Here’s a brief background:

The passage is part of a letter written by James, who was likely Jesus’ brother. In this section, James warns against arrogance and the tendency to make plans without considering God’s will. He criticizes those who say things like “Today or tomorrow, we shall go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit” without acknowledging that life is uncertain and everything happens according to God’s will.

James uses the metaphor of life being a vapor or mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes to illustrate the fleeting nature of human life1. He advises that instead of boasting about our plans, we should say, "If the Lord wills, we shall live and also do this or that".

The passage concludes with a powerful statement: "Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do, and does not do it, to him it is sin". This serves as a reminder that knowing what is right is not enough; we must also act on that knowledge.

In summary, James 4:13-17 teaches the importance of humility, recognizing our mortality, and aligning our plans with God’s will. It’s a call to live wisely, acknowledging God’s sovereignty in all aspects of life.

Learning Lessons

James 4:13-17 offers several important life lessons:

Humility: The passage teaches us to be humble and recognize that we are not in control of everything. Our plans and ambitions should always be made with an understanding that they are subject to change.

Acknowledging Uncertainty: Life is uncertain and unpredictable. We should be mindful of this when making plans and not assume that everything will go as we expect.

God’s Will: For those of faith, this passage emphasizes the importance of aligning our plans with God’s will. It teaches that we should say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and also do this or that” instead of making definitive statements about our future.

Action on Knowledge: Knowing what is right is not enough; we must also act on that knowledge. Inaction or neglect when we know what should be done is considered a sin.

Value of Life: The metaphor of life being a vapor or mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes is a reminder of the fleeting nature of human life. It encourages us to value our time and live wisely.

These lessons from James 4:13-17 can guide us in our decision-making and help us live more thoughtful and meaningful lives. (Copilot)

I do Will It. Be made Clean

Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand, 

touched him, and said to him, 

“I do will it. Be made clean.”

MARK 1:41

By the will of God, you are made clean from all the stains of sin and guilt. He washes you with His grace and mercy and covers you with His righteousness. By the will of God, you are made new from all the old and broken ways. He transforms you by His Spirit and power and shapes you into His likeness. By the will of God, you are made whole from all the wounds and hurts of life. He heals you with His love and compassion and fills you with His peace and joy.

Offer for your cleansing a sacrifice of praise for He has done great things for you. He has redeemed you from the power of the grave and brought you into His kingdom of light. Offer for your cleansing a sacrifice of faith for He is faithful and true to you. He has forgiven you all your iniquities and mistakes and renewed you by His word of life. Offer for your cleansing a sacrifice of love for He is love and He loves you. He has shown you His mercy and grace from above and called you to His service and glory.

40 A leper came to Jesus and kneeling down begged him and said, “If you wish, you can make me clean.” 41 Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand, touched him, and said to him, “I do will it. Be made clean.” 42 The leprosy left him immediately, and he was made clean. 43 Then, warning him sternly, he dismissed him at once. 44 He said to him, “See that you tell no one anything, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer for your cleansing what Moses prescribed; that will be proof for them.” 45 The man went away and began to publicize the whole matter. He spread the report abroad so that it was impossible for Jesus to enter a town openly. He remained outside in deserted places, and people kept coming to him from everywhere. (Mark 1:40-45)

The Lord separates the clean from the unclean as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. He knows those who are His and those who are not and rewards them according to their works. As a farmer sifts his wheat from the chaff, He tests those who are pure and those who are corrupt and purifies them by His fire. As a judge discerns the innocent from the guilty, He judges those who are righteous and those who are wicked and saves them by His grace.

The Lord protects you from unclean persons who seek to harm you or lead you astray. He surrounds you with His angels and saints and guides you in His righteous way. The Lord protects you from unclean persons who speak lies or slander against you. He silences their mouths and exposes their deeds and vindicates you by His truth. The Lord protects you from unclean persons who tempt you to sin or rebel against Him. He strengthens you with His grace and wisdom and delivers you from their schemes.

1 The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, 2 “If someone has on his skin a scab or pustule or blotch which appears to be the sore of leprosy, he shall be brought to Aaron, the priest, or to one of the priests among his descendants. 44 If the man is leprous and unclean, the priest shall declare him unclean by reason of the sore on his head. 45 “The one who bears the sore of leprosy shall keep his garments rent and his head bare, and shall muffle his beard; he shall cry out, ‘Unclean, unclean!’ 46 As long as the sore is on him he shall declare himself unclean, since he is in fact unclean. He shall dwell apart, making his abode outside the camp.” (Leviticus 13:1-2, 44-46)

The Lord takes away the guilt of your sins. As a father forgives his prodigal son, He welcomes you back with open arms and restores you to His family and love. As a doctor heals your sickness and pain, He cleanses you from all your infections and restores you to health and strength. As a king pardons your crimes and debts, He frees you from all your penalties and restores you to honor and freedom.

Confess your faults to the Lord and He will forgive you and cleanse you for He is faithful and just to His word and He will not reject you or shame you. He will heal you and restore you for He is merciful and gracious to His people and He will not abandon you or forsake you. He will comfort you and strengthen you for He is loving and compassionate to His children and He will not condemn you or punish you.

1 Blessed is he whose fault is taken away, whose sin is covered. 2 Blessed the man to whom the Lord imputes not guilt, in whose spirit there is no guile. 5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you, my guilt I covered not. I said, “I confess my faults to the Lord,” and you took away the guilt of my sin. 11 Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you just; exult, all you upright of heart. (Psalm 32:1-2, 5, 11)

The Lord sets a good example for you to follow, As a teacher instructs his students in the way, He teaches you His commandments and statutes and shows you His wisdom and grace. As a leader guides his followers in the path, He leads you by His Spirit and presence and shows you His power and faithfulness. As a friend loves his friends in the truth, He loves you with His unconditional love and shows you His kindness and mercy.

Be imitators of Christ and follow His footsteps. He is the way, the truth, and the life and He is the perfect example. Live by His principles for He is the light of the world and He is the standard of excellence. Love as He loved for He is the Lamb of God and He is the expression of grace.

31 Brothers and sisters: Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. 32 Avoid giving offense, whether to Jews or Greeks or the church of God, 33 just as I try to please everyone in every way, not seeking my own benefit but that of the many, that they may be saved. 11:1 Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. (1 Corinthians 10:31–11:1)

Lord Jesus, by Your will, You can make me clean from all the stains of sin and guilt, sickness and infirmities, and all the wounds and hurts of life. I confess my faults to You O Lord and You took away the guilt of my sin. Please protect me from all forms of harm or evil that may come my way. Thank You so much for loving me unconditionally despite my sins and setting Your own self as my model to follow. As always, help me to imitate You in everything I say and do for the praise and glory of the Father now and forever. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Mystery of Jesus

THE CLEANSING OF A LEPER

Mark 1:40-45

LEPROSY

Leviticus 13:1-46

First Book of Psalms 1-41

REMISSION OF SIN

Psalm 32:1-11

SEEK THE GOOD OF OTHERS

1 Corinthians 10:23-33 /11:1

Reflection Source:

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