God With Us

Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, 

and they shall name Him Immanuel, 

which means “God is with us.” 

MATTHEW 1 : 23

He shall stand firm and shepherd His flock by the strength of the Lord, in the majestic name of the Lord, His God; and they shall remain, for now His greatness shall reach to the ends of the earth; He shall be peace. (Mic 5:3-4)

God is with you in all that you do (Gen 21:22). Be strong and courageous, and act; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD God, is with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you until all the work for the service of the house of the LORD is finished (1 Ch 28:2).

Thus says the LORD, “The products and the merchandise will come over to you and will be yours. God is with you, and there is none else, No other God” (Isa 45:14). Certainly I will be with you, and this shall be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: when you have brought the people out, you shall worship God at this mountain” (Exo 3:4).

It shall be when these signs come to you, do for yourself what the occasion requires, for God is with you (1 Sam 10:7). Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go (Jos 1:9). Do all that is in your heart, for God is with you (1 Ch 17:2).

The LORD, the God of heaven, has appointed me to build Him a house. Whoever there is among you of all His people, may the LORD his God be with him, and let him go up! (2 Ch 36:23). 

You have said to me, O Lord GOD, “Buy for yourself the field with money and call in witnesses” (Jer 32:25). I trust in Your mercy, let my heart rejoice. You have been good to me (Ps 13:6). The spread of Your wings will fill the breadth of Your land, O Immanuel. (Isa 8:8). But as for me, my prayer is to You, O LORD, at an acceptable time; O God, in the greatness of Your lovingkindness, Answer me with Your saving truth (Ps 69:13). Deal kindly with me for Your name's sake; Because Your loving kindness is good, deliver me (Ps 109:21).

Published:

September 08, 2023, 7:08 AM

God is with you to Deliver you

They will fight against you, 

but not prevail over you, 

for I am with you to deliver you, 

says the Lord. 

(Jeremiah 1:19)

God wants us to be steadfast and courageous despite the challenges we will encounter. In our lives, we may face opposition, but we can trust God’s guidance and stand firm in our faith. As Christians, we may also be called to suffer for Christ’s sake. Rituals lose meaning when performed by a disobedient heart. Our worship must align with God’s calling for us. Let us seek inner authenticity and trust God’s timing. 

Steadfast and Courageous

In life’s tempests, we find our way, 

Challenges rise, shadows sway. 

Yet God’s hand guides, unwavering and true, 

Calling us to be steadfast, courageous too.

Opposition may roar, fierce and wild, 

But trust His guidance, like a faithful child. 

Our faith, a beacon in the darkest night, 

An unwavering flame, burning bright.

For Christ’s sake, we endure, we bear, 

Suffering molds us, refines with care. 

Rituals, mere echoes without heart’s devotion, 

Authentic worship springs from inner emotion.

Let our souls align with God’s sacred call, 

In quiet moments, surrendering all. 

Timing divine, His promises unfold, 

As we seek authenticity, His story told.

Prayer for Steadfastness and Authentic Worship

Gracious Father,

In the midst of life’s trials and storms, You call us to be steadfast, unwavering, and warm. Challenges may rise, opposition may assail, yet we trust Your guidance, our anchor in the gale.

For Christ’s sake, we willingly bear the cross, Suffering molds us, revealing what is truly our loss. May our hearts remain obedient, our worship sincere, not mere rituals, but devotion drawing You near.

Align our souls with Your sacred purpose, we pray, in quiet surrender, seeking Your will each day. Grant us courage, authenticity from within, as we trust Your timing, knowing You’re with us, even in the din.

Lord, make us vessels of Your grace and light, may our lives reflect Your love, shining bright. In faith, we stand firm, unyielding and true, for You, O God, are our strength, our refuge, our view.

Amen.

Pericope:

I. Oracles in the days of Josiah

CALL OF JEREMIAH

Jeremiah 1:1-19

First Reading | Jeremiah 1:17-19

17 The world of the Lord came to me thus: Gird your loins; stand up and tell them all that I command you. Be not crushed on their account, as though I would leave you crushed before them; 18 For it is I this day who have made you a fortified city, a pillar of iron, a wall of brass, against the whole land: Against Judah’s kings and princes, against its priests and people. 19 They will fight against you, but not prevail over you, for I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord.

Background:

This passage is part of the introductory chapter to the book of Jeremiah, which presents the divine calling and commissioning of Jeremiah as a prophet.

Jeremiah’s Background: Jeremiah was the son of Hilkiah, a priest from the village of Anathoth in the land of Benjamin. Anathoth was located about three miles from Jerusalem, and from there, Jeremiah could see the walls of the great capital city. His 40-year ministry was marked by faithfulness and courage despite discouragement, opposition, and limited results. His name’s precise meaning remains uncertain, but it reflects God’s sovereignty and purpose.

The Times of Jeremiah: Jeremiah prophesied during the reigns of several kings: Josiah: A zealous king who sought the LORD and initiated reforms to purify Israel from idolatry. Jehoiakim: Josiah’s son, who ruled after him. Zedekiah: Josiah’s grandson, the last king before Jerusalem’s captivity. Jeremiah and Josiah served simultaneously, supporting each other in their faithful service to God and His people.

The Call to Courage and Promise of Protection (Jeremiah 1:17-19): God encouraged Jeremiah to be steadfast and courageous in the face of opposition. Jeremiah was to arise and speak all that God commanded him, regardless of the challenges.

God promised protection: “They will fight against you, but they shall not prevail against you. For I am with you to deliver you” (Jeremiah 1:19).

In summary, Jeremiah’s background, the historical context, and God’s call to courage provide valuable lessons for us today. May we also find strength in our faithfulness and trust in God’s protection. 

Learning Lessons:

Steadfastness in the Face of Opposition: God commands Jeremiah to be steadfast and courageous despite the challenges he will encounter.

Similarly, in our lives, we may face opposition, but we can trust God’s guidance and stand firm in our faith.

The Weakness of Ritual:Jeremiah’s ministry emphasizes the importance of authentic living over mere ritual. Rituals lose meaning when performed by a disobedient heart. Our worship must align with God’s calling for us.

Suffering for Christ’s Sake: Jeremiah knew that people would fight against him, yet he remained faithful. As Christians, we may also be called to suffer for Christ’s sake (John 15:20; Matthew 16:24).

May we learn from Jeremiah’s example, seeking inner authenticity and trusting God’s timing. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Have No Fear because God is with You

God’s Transformative Message

God’s message is powerful and transformative, 

Be open to His work in your life, 

Both in removing what is harmful, 

And in building what is good.

Participate in His mission, 

Promote justice, compassion, and spiritual growth, 

Spend time in God’s Word, 

Let it shape your thoughts and actions.

Share His message of love and truth, 

With others, near and far, 

In moments of doubt or fear, 

Remember, God is with you.

His presence provides comfort and courage, 

To face challenges with faith, 

Trust in God’s plan for your life, 

Even when it is not clear.

Seek His guidance, be open to His calling, 

Reflect on your gifts and talents, 

God has a plan for each of us, 

Even before we are born.

He knows us intimately, 

And has a purpose for our lives, 

He calls us individually to serve Him, 

In various capacities.

Each of us has a unique role, 

In God’s kingdom, vast and grand, 

Feelings of inadequacy are natural, 

But should not deter us from His call.

When we feel unworthy or incapable, 

Remember, God equips those He calls, 

Lean on His strength and wisdom, 

Rather than our own.

Our dual mission is to both uproot and build, 

To destroy and to plant, 

Reflecting the need for both correction, 

And renewal in His name.

REFLECTION:

Have no fear before them, because I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord. (Jeremiah 1:8)

God’s message is powerful and transformative. Be open to God’s work in your life, both in removing what is harmful and in building what is good. Participate in His mission by promoting justice, compassion, and spiritual growth. Spend time in God’s Word, allowing it to shape your thoughts and actions. Share His message of love and truth with others.

In moments of doubt or fear, remember that God is with you. His presence provides comfort and courage to face challenges. Trust in God’s plan for your life, even when it is not clear. Seek His guidance and be open to His calling. Reflect on your own gifts and talents. 

God has a plan for each of us, even before we are born. He knows us intimately and has a purpose for our lives. He calls us individually to serve Him in various capacities. Each of us has a unique role in God’s kingdom. Feelings of inadequacy are natural, but they should not deter us from following God’s call. When we feel unworthy or incapable, we should remember that God equips those He calls, lean on His strength and wisdom rather than our own. Our dual mission is to both uproot and build, to destroy and to plant, reflecting the need for both correction and renewal.

A Prayer for Divine Guidance and Strength

Heavenly Father,

Your message is powerful and transformative. Help us to be open to Your work in our lives, both in removing what is harmful and in building what is good. Guide us to participate in Your mission by promoting justice, compassion, and spiritual growth.

Lord, we commit to spending time in Your Word, allowing it to shape our thoughts and actions. Empower us to share Your message of love and truth with others.

In moments of doubt or fear, remind us that You are with us. Your presence provides comfort and courage to face challenges. We trust in Your plan for our lives, even when it is not clear. Help us to seek Your guidance and be open to Your calling.

Father, You have a plan for each of us, even before we are born. You know us intimately and have a purpose for our lives. You call us individually to serve You in various capacities, and each of us has a unique role in Your kingdom.

Feelings of inadequacy are natural, but let them not deter us from following Your call. When we feel unworthy or incapable, remind us that You equip those You call. Help us to lean on Your strength and wisdom rather than our own.

Our dual mission is to both uproot and build, to destroy and to plant, reflecting the need for both correction and renewal. May we faithfully carry out this mission in Your name.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

I. Oracles in the Days of Josiah

CALL OF JEREMIAH

Jeremiah 1:1-19

First Reading | Jeremiah 1:1, 4-10

1 The words of Jeremiah, son of Hilkiah, of a priestly family in Anathoth, in the land of Benjamin. 4 The word of the Lord came to me thus: 5 Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I dedicated you, a prophet to the nations I appointed you. 6 “Ah, Lord God!” I said, “I know not how to speak; I am too young.” 7 But the Lord answered me, say not, “I am too young.” To whomever I send you, you shall go; whatever I command you, you shall speak. 8 Have no fear before them, because I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord. 9 Then the Lord extended his hand and touched my mouth, saying, See, I place my words in your mouth! 10 This day I set you over nations and over kingdoms, to root up and to tear down, to destroy and to demolish, to build and to plant.

Background:

Jeremiah 1:1, 4-10 describes the calling of the prophet Jeremiah. Here’s some background to help you understand these verses better:

Jeremiah’s Background

Jeremiah’s Family and Hometown: Jeremiah was the son of Hilkiah, a priest from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin1. Anathoth was a small village about three miles from Jerusalem, known as a priestly city.

Historical Context: Jeremiah’s ministry began during the reign of King Josiah of Judah and continued through the reigns of Jehoiakim and Zedekiah, up until the Babylonian exile. This period was marked by significant political and social upheaval, including the fall of the Assyrian Empire and the rise of Babylon.

The Call of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:4-10)

God’s Call: In verses 4-5, God tells Jeremiah that He knew him before he was formed in the womb and appointed him as a prophet to the nations. This emphasizes God’s sovereignty and Jeremiah’s divine purpose.

Jeremiah’s Hesitation: Jeremiah expresses his reluctance, citing his youth and inexperience4. However, God reassures him, promising to be with him and to deliver him from his fears.

Divine Empowerment: God touches Jeremiah’s mouth, symbolizing the divine words he will speak. God appoints him over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant.

Jeremiah’s calling highlights themes of divine election, human humility, and the transformative power of God’s word. It’s a powerful reminder of how God equips and supports those He calls to serve Him.

Learning Lessons:

Jeremiah 1:1, 4-10 offers several profound lessons that can inspire and guide us in our spiritual journey:

1. God’s Sovereignty and Purpose. Lesson: God has a plan for each of us, even before we are born. He knows us intimately and has a purpose for our lives. Application: Trust in God’s plan for your life, even when it is not clear. Seek His guidance and be open to His calling.

2. Divine Calling. Lesson: God calls individuals to serve Him in various capacities. Jeremiah was called to be a prophet, but each of us has a unique role in God’s kingdom. Application: Reflect on your own gifts and talents. How might God be calling you to use them for His glory and to serve others?

3. Human Humility and Dependence on God. Lesson: Jeremiah felt inadequate and unprepared for the task God set before him. This teaches us that feelings of inadequacy are natural, but they should not deter us from following God’s call. Application: When you feel unworthy or incapable, remember that God equips those He calls. Lean on His strength and wisdom rather than your own.

4. God’s Reassurance and Presence. Lesson: God reassured Jeremiah, promising His presence and protection. This highlights God’s faithfulness and support. Application: In moments of doubt or fear, remember that God is with you. His presence provides comfort and courage to face challenges.

5. Empowerment by God’s Word. Lesson: God touched Jeremiah’s mouth, symbolizing the empowerment to speak His words. This signifies that God’s message is powerful and transformative. Application: Spend time in God’s Word, allowing it to shape your thoughts and actions. Share His message of love and truth with others.

6. Mission to Uplift and Transform. Lesson: Jeremiah was appointed to both uproot and build, to destroy and to plant. This dual mission reflects the need for both correction and renewal. Application: Be open to God’s work in your life, both in removing what is harmful and in building what is good. Participate in His mission by promoting justice, compassion, and spiritual growth.

These lessons from Jeremiah’s calling can encourage us to embrace our own divine purpose with faith and humility. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Great Calm

In every trial, in every storm, 

Jesus is there, His love keeps us warm. 

He holds our hand, He calms our fears, 

His presence wipes away our tears.

When life’s waves crash and winds blow strong, 

In His embrace, we find our song. 

He is our comfort, our guiding light, 

In darkest hours, He shines so bright.

Trust in His power, His sovereign grace, 

In every challenge, seek His face. 

Storms may test and faith may strain, 

But in His strength, we rise again.

Rely on Jesus, His steady hand, 

In His care, we firmly stand. 

No matter how turbulent the sea, 

With Jesus, we are truly free.

So let us trust, with hearts so pure, 

In Jesus’ love, we are secure. 

In every trial, in every fight, 

Jesus is our eternal light.

REFLECTION:

Jesus was in the stern, asleep on a cushion. They woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” He woke up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Quiet! Be still!” The wind ceased and there was great calm. (Mark 4:38-39)

Jesus is in control of all our circumstances. He is always with us in our trials. His presence provides comfort and assurance that we are not alone. We should trust in Jesus’ presence and power, even when we face life’s storms. 

Storms in life test our faith and reveal our true beliefs about God. They challenge us to rely on God’s strength rather than our own and to deepen our trust in His care and provision. No matter how turbulent our circumstances, Jesus can provide a calm and steadying presence. 

Let us trust in Jesus’ sovereignty, rely on His presence, and have faith even in the midst of life’s challenges. 

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You, acknowledging that You are in control of all our circumstances. In every trial and storm, we trust in Your presence and power. You are always with us, providing comfort and assurance that we are never alone.

Help us to rely on Your strength rather than our own. When life’s storms test our faith, may we find our true beliefs in You. Deepen our trust in Your care and provision, and remind us that no matter how turbulent our circumstances, You can provide a calm and steadying presence.

Lord, we trust in Your sovereignty. We rely on Your presence and have faith in Your unfailing love. Guide us through life’s challenges, and help us to always seek Your face.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

THE CALMING OF A STORM AT SEA

II: The Mystery of Jesus

Mark 4:35-41

Gospel Acclamation

A great prophet has arisen in our midst. God has visited his people. 

Gospel | Mark 4:35-41

35 On that day, as evening drew on, Jesus said to his disciples: “Let us cross to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd, they took Jesus with them in the boat just as he was. And other boats were with him. 37 A violent squall came up and waves were breaking over the boat, so that it was already filling up. 38 Jesus was in the stern, asleep on a cushion. They woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” 39 He woke up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Quiet! Be still!” The wind ceased and there was great calm. 40 Then heasked them, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?” 41 They were filled with great awe and said to one another, “Who then is this whom even wind and sea obey?” 

Background:

Mark 4:35-41 recounts the story of Jesus calming the storm, a powerful demonstration of His authority over nature. Here’s some background to help you understand the context:

Setting and Context:

Location: This event takes place on the Sea of Galilee, a large freshwater lake known for its sudden and violent storms due to its geographical setting.

Timing: The incident occurs in the evening after Jesus had spent the day teaching parables to the crowds. He suggests crossing to the other side of the lake, likely to escape the pressing crowds and to continue His ministry elsewhere.

Key Themes:

Jesus’ Authority: This miracle showcases Jesus’ divine authority over nature. By calming the storm with a command, He demonstrates His power as the Son of God.

Faith and Fear: The disciples’ reaction highlights their struggle between faith and fear. Despite witnessing Jesus’ miracles, they panic and question His care for them. Jesus’ response, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” challenges them to trust in His power and presence.

Discipleship: This story serves as a lesson in discipleship. Following Jesus does not mean a life free from storms, but it does mean having faith in His ability to bring peace and safety amidst chaos.

This passage encourages believers to trust in Jesus’ sovereignty and care, even in the midst of life’s storms. 

Learning Lessons:

Mark 4:35-41, where Jesus calms the storm, offers several valuable lessons for believers:

Jesus’ Sovereignty: This passage highlights Jesus’ authority over nature. By calming the storm with a command, He demonstrates His divine power, reinforcing that He is in control of all circumstances.

Faith Over Fear: The disciples’ fear during the storm contrasts with Jesus’ calmness. Jesus challenges them, asking, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” This teaches us to trust in Jesus’ presence and power, even when we face life’s storms.

Presence in the Storm: Jesus was with the disciples in the boat during the storm, symbolizing that He is always with us in our trials. His presence provides comfort and assurance that we are not alone.

Testing of Faith: Storms in life test our faith and reveal our true beliefs about God. They challenge us to rely on God’s strength rather than our own and to deepen our trust in His care and provision.

Peace in Chaos: Jesus’ ability to bring peace to the chaotic storm reflects His power to bring peace to our lives. No matter how turbulent our circumstances, Jesus can provide a calm and steadying presence.

These lessons encourage us to trust in Jesus’ sovereignty, rely on His presence, and have faith even in the midst of life’s challenges. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

God Dwells with Us

My dwelling shall be with them; 

I will be their God, 

and they shall be my people." 

(Ezekiel 37:27)

A call for personal and communal purification and starting anew with a commitment to righteousness. Even when things seem lost, there can be a future reunion and healing. Unity is important under a single, divinely appointed leadership. A society should be governed by just and God-fearing rulers. A community’s identity is tied to its spiritual and moral standing, which can serve as a witness to others. This proves the unbreakable bond between God and His people, and the eternal nature of God’s enduring presence and the sanctity it brings to the community.

In lands afar, 'neath heaven's bright star,

A call rings out, both near and far.

To cleanse the heart, to start anew,

With righteousness in all we do.

When shadows fall, and hope seems small,

A future reunion's gentle call.

Healing's touch, a balm so sweet,

In unity, our hearts shall meet.

One shepherd leads with gentle hand,

Divinely picked to guide the land.

Just rulers rise, with fear of God,

Their righteous paths, the earth applaud.

A community, with morals tight,

Stands as a beacon in the night.

Their spirit strong, their virtue clear,

A witness to the nations near.

Unbreakable, the bond divine,

Between the Maker and His line.

God's presence, an eternal flame,

Sanctifies His people's name.

So let us walk in this bright way,

And in His peace, forever stay.

For in His covenant, we find,

A love that never leaves behind.

Heavenly Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name in the firmament given. We call upon Thee for purification, a personal and communal transformation.

In righteousness, may we be dressed with hearts renewed, in Thy presence blessed. When lost we stand, in shadows drear, remind us, Lord, that Thou art near. Bring us together, make us whole, under Thy leadership, let unity take its toll. Grant us rulers, just and true who fear Thy name in all they do. May our community's identity reflect Thy moral clarity and sanctity. A witness to the world, let us be, of Thy love, and Thy decree.

For unbreakable is the bond we share with Thee, our God, beyond compare. Thy eternal presence, our guiding light brings to our community, Thy holy might.

In this prayer, we commit to Thee our lives, our all, eternally. Amen.

Jesus is with You

“Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? 

The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, 

and then they will fast.” 

MATTHEW 9:14-15

In this metaphor, Jesus refers to Himself as the “bridegroom” and His disciples as the “wedding guests”. He suggests that while He is present with His disciples, it’s a time for joy, not mourning or fasting. However, a time will come when He will be taken away (a reference to His death and ascension), and then His disciples will fast. This passage is often interpreted as Jesus introducing a new covenant, where the old practices (like ritual fasting) are not necessary when one is in the direct presence of God (Jesus). However, in His absence, these practices can be a way to express longing for His return.

In the heart of the feast, under the joyous sun, where the bridegroom resides, and the laughter has begun. Can the guests find sorrow, can they wear a frown? While the bridegroom is present, can joy be turned upside down? No, they dance in the light, they feast in the day. With the bridegroom among them, sorrow is kept at bay. But a time will come, under the moon's cold cast, when the bridegroom departs, and the feasting is in the past. Then will the guests mourn, then will their laughter cease, then will they long for the bridegroom, and find no release. They will turn to the fast, to the solemn and the pure. In the absence of the bridegroom, they will endure. But in their hearts, a flame will be kept, for the days of the bridegroom, they will not forget and in their fast, a hope will last, for the return of the bridegroom, and the joy unsurpassed.

14 The disciples of John approached Jesus and said, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast much, but your disciples do not fast?” 15 Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” (Matthew 9:14-15)

This presents a different view of fasting, one that is not just about abstaining from food or drink. Instead, it emphasizes acts of justice and compassion as the true form of fasting that God desires. This refers to freeing people who are unfairly oppressed or burdened. This is a call to end all forms of oppression and to break the bonds that hold people down. This is about providing food for those who are hungry. This calls for providing shelter for those who are oppressed and those who have no place to live. This is about providing clothes for those who are in need. This is a call to care for one’s own family and community. True religious observance goes beyond rituals and involves practical acts of love, justice, and mercy towards others.

This is the fast that I desire, not of empty stomachs, but of hearts on fire. To release the bound, unjustly tied, to untie the yokes, side by side, to set free the oppressed, break every chain, To bring justice and peace, again and again. To share your bread with those who hunger, to make the world a little stronger. To shelter the oppressed, the homeless too, to show the world what love can do. To clothe the naked, see their worth, to bring a little heaven to earth. And never turn your back on kin for in their welfare, we all win. This is the fast that sets us free, a call to live in harmony.

1 Thus says the Lord God: Cry out full-throated and unsparingly, lift up your voice like a trumpet blast; tell my people their wickedness, and the house of Jacob their sins. 2 They seek me day after day, and desire to know my ways, like a nation that has done what is just and not abandoned the law of their God; they ask me to declare what is due them, pleased to gain access to God. 3 “Why do we fast, and you do not see it? afflict ourselves, and you take no note of it?” Lo, on your fast day you carry out your own pursuits, and drive all your laborers. 4 Yes, your fast ends in quarreling and fighting, striking with wicked claw. Would that today you might fast so as to make your voice heard on high! 5 Is this the manner of fasting I wish, of keeping a day of penance: that a man bow his head like a reed, and lie in sackcloth and ashes? Do you call this a fast, a day acceptable to the Lord? 6 This, rather, is the fasting that I wish: releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke; setting free the oppressed, breaking every yoke; 7 sharing your bread with the hungry, sheltering the oppressed and the homeless; clothing the naked when you see them, and not turning your back on your own. 8 Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your wound shall quickly be healed; your vindication shall go before you, and the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. 9 Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer, you shall cry for help, and he will say, Here I am! (Isaiah 58:1-9)

God is not pleased with mere ritual sacrifices or burnt offerings. Instead, what God desires is a “contrite spirit” and a “heart contrite and humbled”. In other words, true repentance involves sincere regret and humility, not just performing religious rituals. God values the sincerity of our hearts over the outward display of religious practices. 

No need for sacrifices, no burnt offering to make, not the ritual, not the form, it's the humble heart You take. A heart contrite and broken, a spirit pure and true. This is the offering, O God, that we present to You. Not in grand temples, not on altars high but in the quiet corners where the unseen tears lie. In the heart that's humbled, in the spirit that's contrite, there You find the sacrifice that is pleasing in Your sight. So here's my heart, O God, broken yet sincere, humbled in Your presence, drawing near. No burnt offering I bring, no sacrifice of old, just a contrite spirit, more precious than gold.

3 Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness; in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense. 4 Thoroughly wash me from my guilt and of my sin cleanse me. 5 For I acknowledge my offense, and my sin is before me always. 6 “Against you only have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight.” 18 For you are not pleased with sacrifices; should I offer a burnt offering, you would not accept it. 19 My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit; a heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn. (Psalm 51:3-4, 5-6, 18-19)

Lord Jesus, in the joy of Your presence, we find our peace, with You as our Bridegroom, all sorrows cease. But we know a time will come, when You'll be taken away, and in those days of absence, we will fast and pray. Help us to remember, in those times of despair, that though we may not see You, You are always there. Give us the strength to fast, to seek You in our need, and in our longing, may our spirits be freed. When the Bridegroom is taken, and we are left alone, may we find comfort in Your love, a love that's never gone and in our fasting, may we draw near to You, finding strength in Your promise, that You will make all things new. All glory, honor, and praise are Yours now and forever. Amen

Pericope:

III. Ministry and Mission in Galilee

THE QUESTION ABOUT FASTING

Matthew 9:14-17

III: Return of the First Captives

TRUE FASTING

Isaiah 58:1-14

Second Book of Psalms 42-72

THE MISERERE: PRAYER OF REPENTANCE

Psalm 51:1-21

Reflection Source:

Copilot with Bing Chat

Recognize Jesus

“Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him 

but did to him whatever they pleased. 

So also will the Son of Man suffer at their hands.” 

MATTHEW 17:12

From the very beginning, one reason some very important people did not recognize the Christ Child is that they weren’t expecting a child, and they certainly weren’t expecting a child from the working class. They were looking for someone already honored and influential. 

Today, the Lord calls upon us to let go of our preconceived notions and be open to the mystery of God. Let us open our life to the path that God shows us and say yes to His will. Let is recognize Jesus in His acts of mercy and compassion, and show the same love to others.

As they were coming down from the mountain, the disciples asked Jesus, “Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” He said in reply, “Elijah will indeed come and restore all things; but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him but did to him whatever they pleased. So also will the Son of Man suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them of John the Baptist. (Matthew 17:9, 10-13)

The prophet Elijah is a man of God and a man of faith who trusted in the Lord. He prophesied of future things and wielded heaven's sword. People waited for his return, who will prepare the way for Christ, who will make his people learn, who will restore all things to God, who will end the age of strife, who will herald the day of the Lord, and who will share in his glory and life. Let us look forward to the day of the Lord, when Jesus will come again in glory and power (Malachi 4:5-6).

In those days, like a fire there appeared the prophet Elijah whose words were as a flaming furnace. Their staff of bread he shattered, in his zeal he reduced them to straits; by the Lord’s word he shut up the heavens and three times brought down fire. How awesome are you, Elijah, in your wondrous deeds! Whose glory is equal to yours? You were taken aloft in a whirlwind of fire, in a chariot with fiery horses. You are destined, it is written, in time to come to put an end to wrath before the day of the Lord, to turn back the hearts of fathers toward their sons, and to re-establish the tribes of Jacob. Blessed is he who shall have seen you and who falls asleep in your friendship. (Sirach 48:1-4, 9-11)

Jesus makes you strong by giving you His grace, His love, and His Spirit. He is your source of strength and your refuge in times of trouble. He promises to be with you always and to help you overcome any challenges you may face. 

O shepherd of Israel, hearken from your throne upon the cherubim, shine forth. Rouse your power. 15 Once again, O Lord of hosts, look down from heaven, and see; take care of this vine, and protect what your right hand has planted, the son of man whom you yourself made strong. May your help be with the man of your right hand, with the son of man whom you yourself made strong. Then we will no more withdraw from you; give us new life, and we will call upon your name. (Psalm 80:2, 3, 15-16, 18-19)

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Phil 4:13). God loves us deeply. He is full of mercy. So He gave us new life because of what Christ has done. He gave us life even when we were dead in sin. (Eph 2:4-5)

Jesus, You hold everything together by your power. You are the King of kings and the Lord of lords. I recognize You as my Lord and Savior. I confess my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe in You and receive Your grace. I follow You and obey Your commands. You are my everything and my all, my joy and my peace, my love and my Lord! Amen.

Pericope:

V: Jesus, the Kingdom, and the Church

THE COMING OF ELIJAH

Matthew 17:9-13

II.  Eulogy of the heroes of Israel and some of the Patriarchs

ELIJAH AND ELISHA

Sirach 48:1-16

Third Book of Psalms 73-89

PRAYER TO RESTORE GOD'S VINEYARD

Psalm 80:1-20

Reflection Source:

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