Message of 7-1-16

Published: Fri, 07/01/16

“Because the Holy Spirit is given to us, God transforms the human spirit, making it receptive to God’s Love, the Holy Spirit. Then, possessing God’s own Love and so loving with divine Love, the human advances in authenticity and so in holiness.

- Daniel Helminiak, Spiritual Development

(Sanctification (aka “theosis”) — what the Holy Spirit effects in us. Say “yes” to this process this day.)

Readings of the Day

Am 8:4-6, 9-12; Ps 119:2, 10, 20, 30, 40, 131; Mt 9:9-13

R. (Matthew 4:4) One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.

Blessed are they who observe his decrees,
who seek him with all their heart.

With all my heart I seek you;
let me not stray from your commands.

My soul is consumed with longing
for your ordinances at all times.

The way of truth I have chosen;
I have set your ordinances before me.

Behold, I long for your precepts;
in your justice give me life.

I gasp with open mouth
in my yearning for your commands.

USCCB Lectionary

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Scripture Reflection

Matthew 9:9-13 (The call of Matthew)

Matthew never forgot that Jesus had called him out of his position of disrepute and oppression. Whenever he mentions himself, Matthew quickly adds that he was once a tax collector. So, too, do we need to recall how the Lord has lifted us up and helped us grow. - When we remember, we are remembered” is a pious saying. Do you take enough time to recall your roots? Resolve to call a friend or family member today as a way to help you appreciate your past. Browse through an old photo album during the week.

- Are you a self-righteous person? How is this manifested in your life?

- Pray for the grace to recognize grace in your life.

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Spiritual Reading

The Way of Perfection, by Teresa of Avila (1515-1582)

Describes how, by striving always to walk in the love and fear of God, we shall travel safely amid all these temptations.

But if you feel this love for God which I have spoken of, and the fear which I shall now describe, you may go on your way with happiness and tranquillity. In order to disturb the soul and keep it from enjoying these great blessings, the devil will suggest to it a thousand false fears and will persuade other people to do the same; for if he cannot win souls he will at least try to make them lose something, and among the losers will be those who might have gained greatly had they believed that such great favours, bestowed upon so miserable a creature, come from God, and that it is possible for them to be thus bestowed, for sometimes we seem to forget His past mercies.

- Chapter 40

(Keep in mind that she is writing to sisters in a cloistered contemplative order.)

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