5 Jan
Mon
Monday after Epiphany
1 Jn. 3:22--4:6
Ps. 2:7-8,10-11
Mt. 4:12-17,23-25
(Ps Wk II)
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There are many spirits in the world and not all of them are good or even helpful. John has a good guide to discernment: Does the spirit affirm or deny that Jesus has come in the flesh? Listen only to those spirits that affirm his coming in the flesh, for Jesus is not a myth, idea, or ideology. Jesus is deeply involved in human lives and in our world - that is what the incarnation is all about. John also assures us that Jesus is within us and is far more powerful than any worldly force. We should not be fearful, timid, or spiritually lax, but conduct ourselves as people who are from God. In Matthew's Gospel, Jesus began his ministry in Galilee, and this was portrayed as the fulfilment of prophecy. The people who dwell in darkness had seen a great light, and that great light was Jesus himself and his message from God. His first message was about the approaching reign of God and the importance of opening one's mind and heart to receive it. That is what 'repentance' means - changing how one thinks and views the world. God entered human history in a new way and it requires spiritual insight to be aware of God's activity in the world. Being open to God's love and to a new way of living will enable one to participate in this new and exciting history. Jesus has come in the flesh and our lives will never be the same again.




Lord, open my mind and heart.




DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That those from diverse religious traditions and all people of good will may work together for peace.
Elaboration

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