Unshakable Confidence In GOD

"O GOD, show YOUR mercy to me, for my foes are in hot pursuit; they press their attack on me all the time.
My accusers pursue me all day long; many attack me. But when I am afraid, O Mighty One, I put my trust in YOU;
In GOD, whose word I praise; in GOD I trust, without fear.  What can mortals do against me?
All day long they hatch their evil plans, potting mischief to injure my cause.
They conspire, and lurk around, watching my every move; bent upon taking my life.
They must not be allowed to go unpunished; therefore, O GOD, in YOUR fury, bring the nations down.
YOU have a record of my laments; my tears are stored in YOUR wineskin.  Are they not written on YOUR scroll?
My enemies turn back when I call on YOU for help; now I know, that GOD is for me.
In GOD, whose word I praise; in GOD I trust, without fear.  What can mortals do against me?
I am bound to you by vows, O GOD; I shall offer my thanksgiving.
For YOU have rescued my soul from death and my feet from stumbling; that I might walk in GOD'S presence, in the light of the living." - Psalm 56:2-14

('YOU have a record of my laments.'  The sentence is more graphic in Hebrew: 'My tears are stored in YOUR wineskin?' This is what professional mourners did.  The tears were shed, as it were, by proxy, and left at the grave, as evidence of grief.  But here the tears are not professional, GOD knows it, and they are really worth keeping.  We can only know what GOD thinks of human suffering from HIS Son, GOD's Word to us.  When JESUS saw Martha weeping HE started to cry HIMSELF [John 11:33-34].  But in the end, GOD 'will wipe all the tears away' and there will be no more crying [Revelation 21:4].

It is good to pray with this psalm, on the face of so much suffering and so many tears that don't find a human answer.

This is a prayer of the millions of oppressed who live, and no doubt will die crushed.  'YOU, LORD, have gathered our tears!')

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Not To Do Good Is To Do Evil, Not To Cure Is To Kill

"Again, JESUS entered the synagogue.  A man, who had a paralyzed hand, was there; and some people watched JESUS: would HE heal the man on the Sabbath?  If HE did, they could accuse HIM.

JESUS said to the man with the paralyzed hand, 'Stand here, in the center.'  Then HE asked them, 'What does the law allow us to do on the Sabbath?  To do good or to do harm?  To save life or to kill?'  But they were silent.

Then JESUS looked around at them with anger and deep sadness at their hardness of heart.  And HE said to the man, 'Stretch out your hand.'  He stretched it out, and his hand was healed.  As soon as the Pharisees left, they met with Herod's supporters, looking for a way to destroy JESUS." - Mark 3:1-6 

(Here, what Mark wants to emphasize is not the miracle JESUS performs, but HIS attitude vis-a-vis the Sabbath.  This miracle confirms what HE has just said in 2:28.

The Pharisees considered it lawful to work on the Sabbath if it was a question of saving someone in danger of death.  JESUS is about to enlarge this ruling: for HIM, not to do good is to do evil, not to cure is to kill.)

Some ask if JESUS was interested in the material advancement [well-being] of people or only in their spiritual progress.  Actually, it is impossible to separate one from the other.

JESUS, apparently, did not speak of the economy nor the social order, but HE did denounce our prejudices that prevent us from giving the world a true and just order.

People, then, have the capacity and the means to better their condition, but they use them poorly because they remain prisoners of principles or institutions that are considered sacred, and in order to preserve them they allow half the world to die.)

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The Son Of Man Is Master Even Of The Sabbath

"One Sabbath HE was walking through grain fields.  As HIS disciples walked along with HIM, they began to pick the heads of grain and crush them in their hands.  Then the Pharisees said to JESUS, 'Look!  They are doing what is forbidden on the Sabbath!'

And HE said to them, 'Have you never read what David did in his time of need; when he and his men were very hungry?  He went into the House of GOD, when Abiathar was High Priest, and ate; the bread of offering, which only the priests are allowed to eat, and he also gave some to the men who were with him.'  Then JESUS said to them, 'The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.  So the Son of Man is master even of the Sabbath.'" - Mark 2:23-28 

(It was normal that passersby, when hungry, would pick fruit or wheat.  The Pharisees were scandalized because JESUS' disciples did this on the Sabbath, a day when all work was prohibited.

The Sabbath was made for man.  No law, no matter how holy it is, should be applied in a way that would oppress a person.

The Son of Man is master even of the Sabbath.  For the Jews, the observance of the Sabbath was the pillar of the Law established by GOD.  Who did JESUS think HE was?)

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New Wine, New Skin

"One day, when the Pharisees and the disciples of John the Baptist were fasting, some people asked JESUS, 'Why is it, that both the Pharisees and the disciples of John fast, but yours do not?'  JESUS answered, 'How can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them?  As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast.  But the day will come, when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day they will fast.

No one sews a piece of new cloth on an old coat, because the new patch will shrink and tear away from the old cloth, making a worse tear.  And no one puts new wine into old wine skins, for the wine would burst the skins, and then both the wine and the skins would be lost.  But new wine, new skins!'" - Mark 2:18-22 

(Many religious leaders sympathized with JESUS.  How they would have liked that HE rekindle the faith of the nation!  JESUS HIMSELF did not feel that HIS primary task was to reorganize worship and bring people to the synagogues.

The Pharisees were fasting.  Fasting, a sign of repentance, supported their prayers that GOD come and liberate HIS people.  GOD comes in the person of JESUS: joy and celebration are more appropriate than fasting.  The prophets had announced the wedding feast of GOD with HIS people when HE would come to visit us [Isaiah 62:4-5].  Because of this, in presenting HIMSELF as the bridegroom, JESUS identifies who HE really is.

What is the new wine?  It is of course the Gospel, and the enthusiasm because of the Holy Spirit that leads the disciples to every kind of madness to manifest the love of the FATHER and the freedom that they have acquired.  In order to understand this, let us read the Acts of the Apostles and the lives of the saints, who have marked Church history.

Old skins:  The Gospel does not fit into the molds of religion and likewise does not enter into those persons who hold onto them at all costs.  Mark wants us to catch the Gospel's novelty.  We have just seen JESUS welcoming sinners, now we wonder that HE doesn't come like religious groups with prayers and fasting.) 

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Earth Rejoices In Its King

"YAHWEH reigns; let the earth rejoice;

let the distant islands be glad.

Clouds and darkness surround HIM;

justice and right, are HIS throne.

Fire goes before HIM,

burning HIS foes on every side.

HIS lightning lights up the world;

the earth watches and trembles.

The mountains melt like wax

before YAHWEH, the LORD of all the earth.

The heavens proclaim HIS justice,

all peoples see HIS glory."

- Psalm 97:1-6

(The glory, the magnificence, the splendor of GOD--this could strike us with terror so that we might cry out like St. Peter, 'Depart from us!'  But that glory is our light; we are even called to share that glory.  So for us, the majesty of GOD is not an object of terror, but a subject of exultation.)

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"I Did Not Come To Call The Righteous, But Sinners."

"When JESUS went out again, beside the lake, a crowd came to HIM, and HE taught them.  As HE walked along, HE saw a tax collector sitting in his office.  This was Levi, the son of Alpheus.  JESUS said to him, 'Follow ME!'  And Levi got up and followed HIM.

And it so happened that, when JESUS was eating in Levi's house, tax collectors and sinners sat with HIM and HIS disciples; there were a lot of them, and they used to follow JESUS.

But Pharisees, men educated in the law, when they saw JESUS eating with sinners and tax collectors, said to HIS disciples, 'Why does your master eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?'

JESUS heard them, and answered, 'Healthy people don't need a doctor, but sick people do.  I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.'" - Mark 2:13-17 

(To enter the family of GOD, we must change some of our values.  This conversion is not as conspicuous as participation in devotional practices but is much more valuable.  First, we must liberate ourselves from prejudices by which we classify people.  Let us stop dividing people into good or bad; those we can greet and those we cannot; those we can love and help and those we cannot.  Let us learn that GOD does not hate the rich or the uneducated, those on the left or those on the right, for GOD's mercy plan sees to the salvation of all.)

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There Is No Doubt About GOD's Power And All Kingship Comes From HIM

"Blessed is the people who know YOUR praise.  They walk in the light of of YOUR face.  They celebrate all day, YOUR name and YOUR protection lifts them up.

YOU gave us glory and power; and YOUR favor gives us victory.  Our king is in the hands of YAHWEH; the GOD of Israel is our shield."  

- Psalm 89:16-19

(Here is a good psalm to pray in times of national or international conflict.  If a human being is injured, GOD is injured.  The love of GOD is faithful.  Despite everything, the love of GOD cannot turn back.)

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JESUS' Prayer At Night

"Very early in the morning, before daylight, JESUS went off to a lonely place where HE prayed.  Simon and the others went out also, searching for HIM; and when they found HIM, they said, 'Everyone is looking for YOU.'  Then JESUS answered, 'Let us go to the nearby villages so that I may preach there too; for that is why I came.'

So JESUS set out to preach in all the synagogues throughout Galilee; HE also cast out demons." - Mark 1:35-39 

(The apostles knew GOD since childhood through the Scripture's teachings; perhaps they had not discovered GOD within their own lives but prayed to GOD as to a distant stranger.  When they joined JESUS, they immediately understood that there was something extraordinary about HIM.  They were especially taken with HIS apparent intimacy with GOD.  The most extraordinary thing they noted in HIS manner and actions was HIS intimate and faithful union with HIS FATHER.

Living with JESUS, they begin to desire to know the FATHER more fully, something like JESUS knows HIM [Luke 11:1; John 14:8; 15:15].)

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JESUS Heals Many

"On leaving the synagogue, JESUS went to the home of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.  As Simon's mother-in-law was sick in bed with fever, they immediately told HIM about her.  JESUS went to her and, taking her by the hand, raised her up.  The fever left her and she began to wait on them.  That evening, at sundown, people brought to JESUS all the sick and those who had evil spirits: the whole town was pressing around the door.  JESUS healed many who had various diseases, and drove out many demons; but HE did not let them speak, for they knew who HE was." - Mark 1:29-34 

Peter's Mother-in-Law

(Peter's simple faith is manifested.  JESUS enters the house, bringing with HIM peace and health.  JESUS shows us how to visit the sick.  What a natural thing to do when Mass ends--to go see the sick.  The care and love of our Christian sisters and brothers attracts GOD's favors upon them.

That evening at sundown.  Let us not forget that it is the Sabbath, the weekly day of rest.  For the Jews days are counted from the time of sunset and night precedes day as shown in Genesis 1:5.  Everyone observes the Sabbath, just as JESUS does and there is such haste to bring the sick to HIM that they begin to do so in the evening as soon as the Sabbath is over.)

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The Story Of Hannah

"After they had eaten and drunk in Shiloh, Hannah stood up not far from Eli, the priest whose seat was beside the doorpost of YAHWEH's house.  Deeply distressed she wept and prayed to YAHWEH and made this vow: 'O YAHWEH of Hosts, if you will have compassion on YOUR maidservant and give me a son, I will put him in YOUR service for as long as he lives and no razor shall touch his head.'

As she prayed before YAHWEH, Eli observed the movement of her lips.  Hannah was praying silently; she moved her lips but uttered no sound and Eli thought Hannah was drunk.  He, therefore said to her: 'For how long will you be drunk?  Let your drunkenness pass.'  But Hannah answered: 'No my lord, I am a woman in great distress, not drunk.  I have not drunk wine or strong drink, but I am pouring out my soul before YAHWEH.  Do not take me for a bad woman.  I was so afflicted that my prayer flowed continuously.'  Then Eli said, 'Go in peace and may the GOD of Israel grant you what you asked for.'  Hannah answered, 'Let your maidservant deserve your kindness.'  Then she left the temple; and when she was at table she seemed a different woman.

Elkanah rose early in the morning and worshiped before YAHWEH with his wives.  Then they went back home to Ramah.  When Elkanah slept with his wife, Hannah, YAHWEH took compassion on her, and she became pregnant.  She gave birth to a son and called him Samuel because she said: 'I have asked YAHWEH to give him to me.'" - 1 Samuel 1:9-20 

(It all starts with an ordinary couple living a familiar drama in a hill town.

The woman, in an inferior situation, as it will always be in Israel, is only worth the children she bears.  A man has as many wives as he is able to maintain.  Elkanah loves Hannah.  YAHWEH listens and not only gives a son to Hannah but also a prophet for HIS people.

GOD likes to choose HIS servants precisely from those families who have no hope of having children.  It is GOD who gives life to the dead and hope to those who have none.  The same happens with the birth of Isaac and John the Baptist [Luke 1:5].  In the book of Isaiah is a poem which starts with these words: "Rejoice, O barren woman who has not given birth!" [Isaiah 54:1].)

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"Follow ME, And I Will Make You Fish For People."

"After John was arrested, JESUS went into Galilee and began preaching the Good News of GOD.  HE said, 'The time has come; the kingdom of GOD is at hand.  Change your ways and believe the Good News.'

As JESUS was walking along the shore of Lake Galilee, HE saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen.  And JESUS said to them, 'Follow ME, and I will make you fish for people.'  At once, they abandoned their nets and followed HIM.  JESUS went a little farther on, and saw James and John, the sons of Zebedee; they were in their boat mending their nets.  Immediately, JESUS called them and they followed HIM, leaving their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men." - Mark 1:14-20 

(After this desert experience, JESUS returns to HIS home province, Galilee, and establishes HIMSELF in Capernaum.  JESUS lives in the house of Simon, who already appears to be the leader of a group of fishermen, and among them JESUS finds HIS disciples.

GOD becomes human, JESUS shares the life of the people of HIS time, and like the prophets HE teaches by what HE says and does.

The time has come.  What does that mean?  The time fixed by GOD has come to an end [Galatians 4:4; Ephesians 1:10], the time of preparation has ended, and the manifestation of GOD announced by the prophets has already begun.

Change your ways and believe the Good News.  GOD does not expect works on the part of human beings but calls them to faith.  Be rid of all that hampers you, of all that prevents you from seeing and believe!  Believe that it is HE, and HE alone who is able to save you!

At once, they abandoned their nets and followed HIM, which means leaving their family and work they began to live with HIM.  Like the masters of religion in HIS time, like the rabbis, JESUS instructed HIS first disciples, teaching them what they were to pass on to others in the Church.

Simon, Andrew, James and John.  JESUS already new them: HE had met them where John the Baptist was preaching [John 1:35].  The first nucleus of disciples is this natural group of lake fishermen of which Peter seemed to be the leader.  They were most probably young men, ready to make a commitment at a time and in a culture where people were freer than we are from the constraints of work.

They did not yet know what the Reign of GOD would mean but they trusted JESUS to guide them.  This for them was the beginning of faith.)

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JESUS Baptized By John

"At that time, JESUS arrived from Galilee and came to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him.  But John tried to prevent HIM, and said, 'How is it, YOU come to me?  I should be baptized by YOU!'

But JESUS answered him, 'Let it be like that for now; so that we may fulfill the right order.'  John agreed.

As soon as HE was baptized, JESUS came up out of the water.  All at once, the heavens opened and HE saw the Spirit of GOD come down, like a dove, and rest upon HIM.  At the same time, a voice from heaven was heard, 'This is MY Son, the Beloved; HE is MY Chosen One.'" - Matthew 3:13-17 

(In this baptism JESUS identifies HIMSELF with HIS people, more precisely with this world of "untitled" people who went to hear a call to conversion.  For HIM it is an occasion of deep religious experience recalling that of the great prophets.  What the voice says gives JESUS HIS mission.  HE will be Son and Servant of the FATHER [Psalm 2 and Isaiah 42:1].)

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John The Baptist's Last Testimony

"After this, JESUS went into the territory of Judea with HIS disciples.  HE stayed there with them and baptized.  John was also baptizing in Aenon, near Salim, where water was plentiful; people came to him and were baptized.  This happened before John was put in prison.

Now John's disciples had been questioned by a Jew about spiritual cleansing, so they came to John and said, 'Rabbi, the one who was with you across the Jordan, and about whom you spoke favorably, is now baptizing, and all are going to HIM.'

John answered, 'No one can receive anything, except what has been given to HIM from heaven.  You yourselves are my witnesses that I said, 'I am not the CHRIST, but I have been sent before HIM.  Only the bridegroom has the bride; but the friend of the bridegroom stands by and listens, and rejoices to hear the bridegroom's voice.  My joy is now full.  It is necessary that HE increase, but that I decrease.'" - John 3:22-30 

(The Gospel admits that many disciples of John the Baptist did not recognize JESUS.  They had been drawn by their teacher's example: he was intense and outspoken, hard on himself in food, drink and clothing.  Somehow they had the hope, maybe because of  John the Baptist's manner, that GOD's true justice would come and bring about direct punishment of the wicked.  Like militant followers of whatever good cause, John's disciples had this weakness: they were too focused on their own leaders and ways to consider other possibilities.  To become CHRIST's disciples, they would have to give up their own prophets.

It is necessary that HE increase but that I decrease, said the greatest of the prophets.  Only JESUS comes from On High, and can fully satisfy the human heart.  In HIM nothing of the good is lost, since HE embodies all.)

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Cure Of A Leper

"One day, in another town, a man came to JESUS covered with leprosy.  On seeing JESUS, the man bowed down to the ground, and said, 'LORD, if YOU want to, YOU can make me clean.'

Stretching out HIS hand, JESUS touched the man and said, 'Yes, I want to.  Be clean.'  In an instant, the leprosy left him.  Then JESUS instructed him, 'Tell this to no one.  But go, and show yourself to the priest.  Make an offering for your healing, as Moses prescribed; that will serve as evidence for them.'

But the news about JESUS spread all the more; and large crowds came to HIM, to listen and to be healed of their sickness.  As for JESUS, HE would often withdraw to solitary places and pray." - Luke 5:12-16 

(Make an offering for your healing.  The same law that demanded that a leper be isolated [Leviticus 13:45], provided that if the leper was healed, he could, after examination by the priests be reintegrated into the community.  Because leprosy was seen as GOD's punishment, healing meant that GOD had forgiven the sinner who was to express his gratitude with a sacrifice.

HE would often withdraw to solitary places and pray.  Luke mentions JESUS' prayer several times [3:21; 6:12; 9:28...]  JESUS did not withdraw only to be still, but because, on each occasion, prayer was a necessity for HIM.)

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The Victory, Which Overcomes The World, Is Our Faith

"All those, who believe that JESUS is the Anointed, are born of GOD; whoever loves the FATHER, loves the Son.  How may we know, that we love the children of GOD?  If we love GOD and fulfill HIS commands, for GOD's love requires us to keep HIS commandments are not a burden

because all those born of GOD overcome the world.  And the victory, which overcomes the world, is our faith." - 1 John 5:1-4 

(GOD-Love is the one who asks us to believe in HIS Son, and faith is a victory.  John wrote the Book of Revelation to give hope to persecuted believers, showing them the victory they share with CHRIST simply because they believe in HIM.  John repeats the same thing here in a different way.

Our greatest victory is to attain our inheritance as children of GOD and to reach the eternal life of GOD HIMSELF.  Those who believe in CHRIST have already come to the Truth, to GOD.)

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JESUS Walks On The Water

"Immediately, JESUS obliged HIS disciples to get into the boat and go ahead of HIM to the other side, toward Bethsaida, while HE HIMSELF sent the crowd away.  And having sent the people off, HE went by HIMSELF to the hillside to pray.

When evening came, the boat was far out on the lake, while HE was alone on the land.  JESUS saw HIS disciples straining at the oars, for the wind was against them; and before daybreak HE came to them, walking on the lake, and HE was going to pass them by.

When they saw HIM walking on the lake, they thought it was a ghost and cried out; for they all saw HIM and were terrified.  But, at once, HE called to them, "Courage!  It is I; don't be afraid!'  Then JESUS got into the boat with them, and the wind died down.  They were completely astonished, for they had not really grasped the fact of the loaves; their minds were dull." - Mark 6:45-52 

(JESUS obliged them to get into the boat.  Why?  John's Gospel explains this [John 6:15].  Because the people, enthused by the miracle, wanted to make HIM a king and liberator sent by GOD.  Even the apostles were eager for this to happen.) 

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GOD Is Love

"My dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from GOD.  Everyone who loves, is born of GOD and knows GOD.

Those who do not love have not known GOD, for GOD is love.

How did the love of GOD appear among us?  GOD sent HIS only Son into this world, that we might have life, through HIM.

This is love: not that we loved GOD, but that, HE first loved us and sent HIS Son, as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." - 1 John 4:7-10 

(GOD is love.  The supreme revelation, characteristic of the Christian faith.  Other religions know of a GOD who is good and compassionate: no other religion has known that the dynamism of love moves the entire creation and that its source lies in GOD-Love.

In this beautiful text John insists on the inseparability of love of GOD and love of our neighbor.  We all know this, but sometimes we might wonder why it is so.  John gives us the paramount reason; love comes from GOD.  If we can love GOD, it is because GOD loved us first; if we love each other it is because GOD's love extends among us.

HE first loved us: through HIS eternal predestination [Ephesians 1:4], the sending of HIS Son and through HIS sacrifice [Romans 5:8].  If we are authentically loving, we never feel superior nor that we have merits, as do those who boast of their good works.  We simply realize that the love of GOD works through us.

The lives of those who dedicate themselves lovingly to serving the abandoned, the sick, the elderly, and those no longer useful to society are justified and so are the lives of those who withdraw from ordinary life to dedicate themselves more totally to a more intimate love of GOD.)

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Do Not Trust Every Inspiration

"My beloved, do not trust every inspiration.  Test the spirits, to see, whether they come from GOD, because many false prophets are now in the world.

How will you recognize the Spirit of GOD?  Any spirit recognizing JESUS as the CHRIST, who has taken our flesh, is of GOD.  But any spirit that does not recognize JESUS, is not from GOD, it is the spirit of the antichrist.  You have heard of his coming, and even, now, he is in the world.

You, my dear children, are of GOD, and you have already overcome these people, because the one who is in you, is more powerful than he who is in the world.

They are of the world and the world inspires them, and those of the world listen to them.

We are of GOD, and those who know GOD, listen to us, but those who are not of GOD, ignore us.  This is how we know the spirit of truth, and the spirit of falsehood as well." - 1 John 4:1-6 

(John underlined the role of the Holy Spirit to guide us in the truth, but now he is dealing with the case of the prophets who do not speak according to the faith received from the apostles through the Church.

There have always been conflicts between those in authority and those who speak freely.  It should be clear that no inspired person would ever be able to speak against the traditional faith of the Church.  What if it deals with ways of being or doing in the Church?  Must we always support the people in charge in all circumstances?  That would be to forget that the Gospel forms free people.  We must never blindly follow the opinion of the pope, or the bishop, or the majority.  It is our responsibility to think for ourselves and to evaluate according to the criteria of the Gospel.

Can we then favor those who seem to be guided by the Spirit?  If the Holy Spirit really inspires them, however much they may criticize what must be criticized, they will never attempt to divide the Church.  The community may expel them, but they will not become responsible for the break.  Even when the local community rejects them, they will never be willing to separate themselves from the universal communion of the Church, which, with time, always recognizes true prophets.)

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GOD's Inheritance Is For All

"You may have heard of the graces GOD bestowed on me, for your sake.  By a revelation, he gave me the knowledge of HIS mysterious design, as I have explained in a few words.  On reading them, you will have some idea of how I understand the mystery of CHRIST.

This mystery was not made known to past generations, but only now, through revelations, given to holy apostles and prophets, by the Spirit.  Now, the non-Jews share the inheritance; in CHRIST JESUS, the non-Jews are incorporated, and are to enjoy the Promise..

This is the Good News,..." - Ephesians 3:2-6 

(Paul emphasizes what he has meditated on in jail, what seems most new in the work of CHRIST: this is the "mystery," or GOD's plan calling all people to become a single body, without any racial distinctions.  JESUS proclaimed the equality {Matthew 20], but the early Christians needed several divine interventions before they were convinced [Acts 10].)

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What Is The Way To Recognize The Children Of GOD, And Those Of The Devil?

"My little children, do not be led astray; those who do what is right are upright, just as JESUS CHRIST is upright.  But those who sin belong to the devil, for the devil sins from the beginning.

This is why the Son of GOD was shown to us, HE was to undo the works of the devil.

Those born of GOD do not sin, for the seed of GOD remains in them; they cannot sin, because they are born of GOD.

What is the way to recognize the children of GOD, and those of the devil?  The one, who does not do what is right, is not of GOD; so, too, the one who does not love his brother or sister." - 1 John 3:7-10 

(Those born of GOD do not sin.  This appears exaggerated, but being children of GOD is not a fantasy: we have really begun a life in truth and in love.  To the person who has been reborn, it becomes impossible to commit real sin: to deliberately refuse to love, or to forgive or to continue to struggle.  But we pray to the FATHER: "Lead us not..."

Keeping the commandment of love is what distinguishes GOD 's children.

Most people are accustomed to thinking that the world is divided into two opposed factions.  Some see good people on the one hand, and bad people on the other.  Others see only liberals and conservatives.  Others see black and white.  John tells us what is the dividing line between people: those who love and those who do not love.  Because believers are in the camp of those who love, they will be persecuted.  Their companions and compatriots will not forgive believers for not sharing their own hatred and sectarianism.)

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There Is The Lamb

"The next day, John saw JESUS coming toward him, and said, 'There is the Lamb of GOD, who takes away the sin of the world!  It is HE of whom I said: A man comes after me, who is already ahead of me, for HE was before me.  I myself did not know HIM, but I came baptizing to prepare for HIM, so that HE might be revealed in Israel.'

And John also gave this testimony, 'I saw the Spirit coming down on HIM, like a dove from heaven, and resting on HIM, but GOD, who sent me to baptize, told me, 'You will see the Spirit coming down, and resting on the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.'  Yes, I have seen!  And I declare that this is the Chosen One of GOD!'" - John 1:29-34 

(There is the Lamb.  In the language of the Jews, the word "Lamb" can mean both servant and lamb.  JESUS is the Servant of GOD spoken of by the prophets, who was to sacrifice HIMSELF for HIS brothers and sisters.  HE is also the true Lamb that replaces the Paschal Lamb [Mark 14:12].

A man comes after me.  In history, JESUS appears after John, but being the word of GOD, HE existed before all creatures.  HE also precedes, that is to say, all--including John the Baptist--are guided by HIS light.)

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John The Baptist Presents JESUS, The Lamb Of GOD

"This was the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites to ask him.  'Who are you?'  John recognized the truth, and did not deny it.  He said, 'I am not the Messiah.'

And they asked him, 'Then who are you?  Elijah?'  He answered, 'I am not.'  They said, 'Are you the prophet?'  And he answered, 'No.'  Then they said to him, 'Tell us who you are, so that we can give some answer to those who sent us.  How do you see yourself?'  And John said, quoting the prophet Isaiah, 'I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: Make straight the way of the LORD.'

Those who had been sent were Pharisees; and they put a further question to John, 'Then why are you baptizing, if you are not the Messiah, or Elijah, or the Prophet?'  John answered, 'I baptize you with water, but among you stands one whom you do not know; although HE comes after me, I am not worthy to untie the strap of his sandal.'

This happened in Bethabara beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing." - John 1:19-28 

(The authorities wondered: "Who is this who on his own initiative has begun to preach?"  At that time, various Jewish groups "baptized," or bathed, as a means of purification and to hasten the coming of the Messiah.

Regarding John the Baptist's preaching and baptism, see Luke 3:10.

The Messiah is the name the Jews gave to the expected Savior.  They also expected the Prophet, but it was not clear whether or not the Prophet would be someone other than the Messiah.  It was believed that the prophet Elijah would reappear before the Messiah's arrival [Mark 9:11].)

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HE Came Born Of Woman And Subject To The Law

"But when the fullness of time came, GOD sent HIS Son.  HE came, born of woman, and subject to the law, in law, that we might receive adoption, as children of GOD.  And because you are children, GOD has sent into your hearts, the spirit of HIS Son, who cries out: Abba! that is, FATHER!

You yourself, are no longer a slave, but a son or daughter, and yours is the inheritance, by GOD's grace." - Galatians 4:4-7 

(CHRIST saves humans because HE is a man.  CHRIST came first as the savior of the Jewish people and, to save them, HE became one of them.  HE received HIS whole formation from the law, namely, from the people and religion of the Old Testament.  This law was highly positive, but, as time passed, we had to be redeemed from the yoke of this law to receive the fullness of divine truth.

We must see in this obedience of CHRIST born of woman and subject to the law a fundamental disposition of the plan of salvation: GOD saves us by becoming one of us.  The same is now true of the Church, which saves people rather than giving to them or "being interested in them."  The Church cannot bring them a permanent and transforming salvation if it does not share in their very condition.

This is the reason why the LORD wants Third World churches to bear the cross of the people of their continents: their marginalization, their sufferings and humiliations, in order to lead them to authentic salvation.  When there are only middle-class churches following occidental or Roman patterns, these churches are unfaithful to their mission.)

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You Received From HIM An Anointing, And It Remains In You

"You received from HIM, an anointing, and it remains in you, so you do not need someone to teach you.  HIS anointing teaches you all things.  It speaks the truth and does not lie to you; so remain in HIM, and keep what HE has taught you.

And now, my children, live, in HIM, so that when HE appears in HIS glory, we may be confident, and not ashamed, before HIM when HE comes.

You know, that HE is the Just One: know, then, that anyone living justly is born of GOD." - 1 John 2:27-29 

(You received from HIM an anointing, and it remains in you.  John not only speaks of the anointing of oil in baptism and confirmation.  "CHRIST" signifies precisely, "HE who is anointed," and this anointing was the presence in HIM of the Spirit of GOD, HIS FATHER.  John adds: "You cannot receive passively just any instruction in the Church, but you must discern whether the word of GOD is being faithfully transmitted."

HIS anointing [Spirit] teaches you all things.  In writing that, John had in mind the prophets who were the animators of the churches: through their inspired words the Spirit taught the community [see Acts 14:2 and 1 Thessalonians 5:19].  Today the Spirit also maintains us in the truth through the leaders of the community and those who teach but we are not dispensed from seeking by ourselves the meaning of the Word and discerning what others tell us.)

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The World Passes Away, With All Its Craving, But Those Who Do The Will Of GOD Remain Forever

"My dear children, I write this to you: you have already received the forgiveness of our sins, through the name of JESUS.  Fathers, I write this to you: you know HIM, who is from the beginning.  Young men, I write this to you: you have overcome the evil one.  My dear children, I write to you, because you already know the FATHER.

Fathers, I write to you, because you know HIM, who is from the beginning.  Young men, I write to you, because you are strong, and the word of GOD lives in you, who have, indeed, overcome the evil one.

Do not love the world, or what is in it.  If anyone loves the world, the love of the FATHER is not in him.

For everything in the world--

the craving of the flesh,

the greed of eyes

and people boasting of their superiority--

all this, belongs to the world, not to the FATHER.

The world passes away, with all its craving, but those who do the will of GOD remain forever." - 1 John 2:12-17 

(The third criterion: not to love the world.  Note how John begins by rejoicing with his readers because they know the FATHER.  It is not a matter of hating the world that CHRIST came to save.  Yet the life and history of people manifest a deep alienation: this is the power of the evil spirit.  John calls "the world" all the evil current prevailing in it.  According to John the world is the deceitful life which people live when they cease to seek the FATHER's will, and when they oppose CHRIST.  Two contrary forces coexist in this world of ours and also in people: what comes from the FATHER and is forever; and what is planned and desired by humans when they forget their condition and dignity as children of GOD: greed and pride that lead them to death.

There is something more to say about this not loving the world.  Even though all that comes from GOD is good: the sunlight, love, what emerges from human intelligence and hands, yet the whole creation is worth nothing if we compare it with GOD.

As long as we look upon the world as the great gift that GOD gave us and we feel accountable to HIM for its progress and development, the world is good for us.  As soon as we consider the world as our thing, use it or neglect it according to our fancy, or if we think we can change it alone and by force, it becomes our worst enemy, an idol that enslaves us and is the source of rivalries.  Christians commit themselves to the world [first case] but not with the world [second case].  They keep their freedom as children of GOD or they are no longer sons and daughters because of their love for the world.)   

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Put On The New Self

"Do not lie to one another.  You have been stripped of the old self and its way of thinking; to put on the new, which is being renewed, and is to reach perfect knowledge, and the likeness of its creator.  There is no room for distinction between Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, foreigner, slave or free, but CHRIST is all, and in all.

Clothe yourselves, then, as is fitting for GOD's chosen people, holy and beloved of HIM.  Put on compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience to bear with one another, and forgive, whenever there is any occasion to do so.  As the LORD has forgiven you, forgive one another.  Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.  May the peace of CHRIST overflow in your hearts; for this end you were called, to be one body.  And be thankful.

Let the word of GOD dwell in you, in all its richness.  Teach and admonish one another with words of wisdom.  With thankful hearts, sing to GOD psalms, hymns and spontaneous praise.  And whatever you do or say, do it in the Name of JESUS, the LORD, giving thanks to GOD, the FATHER, through HIM." - Colossians 3:9-17 

(See Ephesians 4:20-24 where Paul develops the same idea of the new self created in CHRIST and of the old self which must be abandoned.

While the old self is self-centered, enslaved by passions, the new self is characterized by a communal attitude, a constant concern for others.  He lives with a thankful heart.)

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Thanksgiving For Help In Crisis

"...had not YAHWEH been on our side,

when people rose up against us,

then, they would have swallowed us alive;

such was their anger against us.

A bit more, and the flood would have engulfed us;

the torrent would have swept over us;

the raging waters would have swept us away.

Blessed be YAHWEH,

who did not let us be devoured.

Like a bird, our soul escaped

from the snare of the fowler;

the snare was broken and we were freed.

Our help is in the name of YAHWEH,

who made heaven and earth."

- Psalm 124:2-8

(Our adversary, the devil, goes around like a roaring lion: like a man swept away by a flood, like a child in a trap.  How helpless we are, how lost--except for GOD.

'If GOD is for us, who can be against us?'  Paul asks [Romans 8:31].  When we live at the limit of our smallness, the liberator of our life arises: GOD as helper.  HE sustains us.  We give thanks to HIM.

With admiration and gratitude, the people of GOD remember how they overcame their trials because GOD was with them.  An invitation to give thanks!  If we have not the heart to thank GOD, it is because we do not know how to discover the wonders in our lives and in the world.  It is strange that in the communities of the poor and the persecuted, the prayers of thanksgiving are interminable.)

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The Word Who Is Life

"This is what has been, from the beginning, and what we have heard, and have seen with our own eyes, what we have looked at, and touched with our hands, I mean the Word who is Life...

The Life made itself known.  We have seen Eternal Life and we bear witness; and we are telling you of it.  It was with the FATHER and made HIMSELF known to us.

So, we tell you, what we have seen and heard, that you may be in fellowship with us, and us, with the FATHER, and with HIS Son, JESUS CHRIST.

And we write this, that our joy may be complete." - 1 John 1:1-4 

(The Word: see John 1:1.  John will not speak about miracles, or revelations, or secrets jealously kept by some members.  The truth that he relates to us is both simpler and more divine than all this: GOD, the Eternal Life, has come to live with us.

Life became visible.  Do not look for miracles or miraculous powers.  Do not expect fantastic revelations about the beyond.  Life was revealed as the gift of the FATHER, the rebirth of a humanity without hope, the divine smile, the unexpected visit of the one seeking to share HIS life with humans [Proverbs 8:31].  We will not find life merely in books, but through communion with those who have seen and experienced it before us, and who became HIS Church.)

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You Will Be Persecuted

"Be on your guard with people, for they will hand you over to their courts, and they will flog you in their synagogues.  You will be brought to trial before rulers and kings because of ME, so that you may witness to them and the pagans.

But when you are arrested, do not worry about what you are to say, or how you are to say it; when the hour comes, you will be given what you are to say.  For it will not be you who speak, but the Spirit of your FATHER, speaking through you.

Brother will hand over his brother to death, and a father his child; children will turn against their parents and have them put to death.  Everyone will hate you because of ME, but whoever stands firm to the end will be saved.) - Matthew 10:17-22 

(Maybe we must recognize that martyrdom is a grace and is not given to everyone.  Many would be ready to give their life for CHRIST, but confronted with situations of violence or corruption, they do not see the necessity to expose a scandal and so submit in order to avoid the worst.  Others, on the contrary, understand that GOD is asking them to witness to the Good News that is opposite to what is imposed.  In so doing they face the repression by which Society defends itself.  Revelation affirms that the murder of witnesses advances Salvation History.)

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The Prophets, Messengers Of A Victorious GOD

"How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those

who bring good news,

who herald peace and happiness,

who proclaim salvation

and announce to Zion: 'Your GOD is King!'

Together your watchmen 

raise their voices in praise and song;

they see YAHWEH face to face returning to Zion.

Break into shouts of joy,

O ruins of Jerusalem,

for YAHWEH consoles HIS people

and redeems Jerusalem.

YAHWEH has bared HIS holy arm

in the eyes of the nations;

all the ends of the earth, in alarm,

will witness GOD's salvation."

- Isaiah 52:7-10

(The prophets, messengers of a victorious GOD: that is the meaning of the good news.  See Romans 1:1; 2 Corinthians 2:14.)

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The Prophecy Of Nathan

"When the king had settled in his palace and YAHWEH had rid him of all his surrounding enemies, he said to Nathan the prophet, 'Look, I live in a house of cedar but the Ark of GOD is housed in a tent.'  Nathan replied, 'Do as it seems fit to you for YAHWEH is with you,'

But that very night, YAHWEH's word came to Nathan, 'Go and tell MY servant David, this is what YAHWEH says: Are you able to build a house for ME to live in?  I have not dwelt in a house since I brought the Israelites up from Egypt to the present day.  But I went about with a tent for shelter.  As long as I walked with the Israelites, did I say anything to the chiefs of Israel whom I commanded to shepherd MY people Israel?  Did I say: Why have you not built ME a house of cedar?

Now you will tell MY servant David, this is what YAHWEH of Hosts says: I took you from the pasture, from tending the sheep, to make you commander of MY people Israel.  I have been with you wherever you went, cutting down all your enemies before you.  Now I will make your name of the great ones on earth.  I will provide a place for MY people Israel and plant them that they may live there in peace.  They shall no longer be harassed, nor shall wicked men oppress them as before.  From the time when I appointed judges over MY people Israel it is only to you that I have given rest from all your enemies.  YAHWEH also tells you that HE will build you a house.

When the time comes for you to rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your son after you, the one born of you; and I will make his reign secure.  He shall build a house for MY name I will firmly establish his kingship forever.  I will be a FATHER to him and he shall be MY son.  If he does wrong, I will punish him with the rod, as men do.  But I will not withdraw MY kindness from him as I did from Saul when I removed him out of your way.  Your house and your reign shall last forever before ME, and your throne shall be forever firm.'"  - 2 Samuel 7:1-16 

(I live in a house of cedar but the Ark of GOD is housed in a tent.  David thinks that if the king has a palace, why should GOD not have one?  GOD, who IS greater, thinks otherwise and makes this known to HIS prophet Nathan.

In ancient times it was unthinkable that a capital city be without its temple and its palace.  GOD and the king were inseparable associates to ensure the good order of the state.  This concept strongly linked to the nature of religion will however be challenged by the Gospel.

GOD will be the one to make David a house.  House in Scripture refers to both persons and things belonging to someone.  David's "house" is his family, his servants, his counselors and officials.

I will provide a place for MY people Israel.  GOD chooses this moment for a decisive step in the development of HIS people.  Israel had been a people of twelve tribes since Joshua's time.  Now, it will be a nation organized in its own land, with a central and stable authority: the kings descending from David.

Now I will make your name great as the name of the great ones on earth.  YAHWEH has accompanied David in all his undertakings; but now HE makes use of him and his works to build something permanent for the salvation of humankind.

The same thing happened with Abraham [Genesis 17:7].

The same thing happened with Peter [Matthew 16:18].

The kingdom of GOD from now on will be the kingdom of David.

I will raise up your son after you [see Luke 1.32].  GOD's promise points to Solomon, David's son and successor, and also to those who will come after.  To all appearances the promise was broken when, after four centuries, the kingdom of David was destroyed.  Nevertheless, it is JESUS, one of the descendants, who, much later, will fully realize what Nathan announced.  Several times in the Gospel, JESUS will be called Son of David [Mark 12:35].

JESUS will also be king, although not in the manner of this world's rulers.  HE will realize fully in HIS person what was merely sketched in the person of David:

-  the shepherd who gathers together the scattered sheep;

- the conqueror who gives HIS people the peace HE has won;

- GOD's deputy among people.

The way GOD gets ahead of David and answers him, gives us two remarkable lessons:

- As in David's case, very often people want to offer GOD something.  In reality we can never anticipate HIM; HE gives HIS favors even before we have begun to serve HIM.

- What pleases GOD is not so much the temples we build for HIM, as the spiritual temple which HE wants to build in people themselves--a project which HE will realize after many centuries through HIS Church.) 

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Birth Of John The Baptist

"When the time came for Elizabeth, she gave birth to a son.  Her neighbors and relatives heard that the merciful LORD had done a wonderful thing for her, and they rejoiced with her.

When, on the eight day, they came to attend the circumcision of the child, they wanted to name him Zechariah after his father.  But his mother said, 'Not so; he shall be called John.'  They said to her, 'But no one in your family has that name!' and they made signs to his father for the name he wanted to give him.  Zechariah asked for a writing tablet, and wrote on it, 'His name is John;' and they were very surprised.  Immediately, Zechariah could speak again, and his first words were in praise of GOD.

A holy fear came on all in the neighborhood, and throughout the hill country of Judea the people talked about these events.  All who heard of it, pondered in their minds, and wondered, 'What will this child be?'  For they understood that the hand of the  LORD was with him." - Luke 1:57-66 

(What was circumcision? [See Genesis 17].  Circumcision, cutting of the skin called "foreskin" of the male organ, was an ancient custom of Oriental people.  It was one of those "initiation rites" which, among some people, mark the passage of an adolescent into adult society.  Circumcision was a religious rite intended to ensure fertility.

Circumcision took on a new meaning for Israel: it was considered the distinct sign of their belonging to the chosen people.  A foreigner could enter the religious community of Israel only by being circumcised.) 

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Paul, An Apostle Called And Set Apart For GOD's Good News

"From Paul, a servant of JESUS CHRIST,

an apostle, called and set apart for GOD's Good News,

the very promises HE foretold through HIS prophets in the sacred Scriptures,

regarding HIS son, who was born in the flesh a descendant of David,

and has been recognized as the son of GOD, endowed with Power,

upon rising from the dead, through the Holy Spirit.

Through HIM, JESUS CHRIST, our LORD, and for the sake of HIS name,

we received grace, and mission in all the nations, for them to accept the faith.

All of you, the elected of CHRIST, are part of them,

you, the beloved of GOD in Rome, called to be holy:

May GOD our FATHER, and the LORD JESUS CHRIST, give you grace and peace.

- Romans 1:1-7

(Paul speaks of the Gospel three times in this paragraph.  In his time the word Gospel, which signifies Good News, conveyed the meaning of victory.  Paul represents himself as one announcing the liberating message given to all humankind.

What is Paul's Gospel?  He develops it briefly in the following lines.  The Son of GOD has come down to earth and after sharing our common condition, has through HIS Resurrection, taken possession of the glory due to HIM.

The Twelve apostles were selected by JESUS and confirmed in their mission by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.  Here Paul reminds us the he himself was made an apostle by JESUS, who met him on the road to Damascus.)  

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A Springtime Of Annunciation

"She

The voice of my lover!  Behold he comes,

springing across the hills,

like a gazelle or a young stag.

Now he stands behind our wall,

looking through the windows,

peering through the lattice.

My lover speaks to me,

He

'Arise, my love, my beautiful one!

Come, the winter is gone,

the rains are over.

Flowers have appeared on earth;

the season of singing has come;

the cooing of doves is heard.

The fig tree forms its early fruit,

the vines in blossom are fragrant.

Arise, my beautiful one,

come with me, my love, come.

O my dove in the rocky cleft,

in the secret places of the cliff,

let me see your face,

let me hear your voice.

Your face--how lovely!

Your voice--how sweet!'"

- Song of Songs 2:8-14

(A springtime of annunciation: love comes to seek the beloved.  Finished are the trials that seemed to have no end and no sense.  The lover is pleased to sing the beauty of his beloved.

Here faith is required of the reader: we have just closed a paper telling us of millions of galaxies blown like a bubble of soap fifteen thousand million years ago, and then the Song speaks of HIM seeking a love among the innumerable descendants of the little "homo habilis."  Is it true?  Possible?  These hundreds of thousands of centuries and suns are perhaps but a cloud of smoke which hides at a different depth the mystery of the Supreme Person, the source of love.  A love that is not only human, for while experiencing it HIMSELF, at the same time HIS Spirit lights its flame in us.)

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