Infant Jesus Church

First Sunday of Lent

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 17:34:00 PST

Romans 8:32: He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all - how will he not also, along with him, give us all things?

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, we are besieged at your sacrificial love offered to us in Jesus. Father, please use your Spirit to stir us to service in response to your grace and have this Comforter build us assurance in your salvation and in your longing to give us your rich blessings. In Infant Jesus' glorious name we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (February 26, 2012)

First Sunday of Lent
First Reading: Genesis 9:8-15
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 25:4-5,6-7,8-9
Second Reading: 1 Peter 3:18-22
Gospel: Mark 1:12-15
Lectionary: 23
Colour: Violet

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 1:12-15)

As soon as John the Baptist had completed his ministry, Jesus commenced his ministry in Galilee, his home district. John's rivals had sought to silence him, but the gospel cannot be quiet. Jesus announced that the time of restoration proclaimed by the prophets was now being fulfilled in his very person and so as to the kingdom of God was at hand. The word "kingdom" means something more than a region or an area of land. It literally means "reign" or "sovereignty" and the power to "rule" and exercise ability. Why was Jesus compelled to seek loneliness for such a lengthy period? Was it simply a test to get ready him for his ministry? Or did Satan want to tempt him into a trap? The word tempt in English usually means to attract to sin. The scriptural word here also means test in the sense of proving and purifying someone to see if there are ready for the task at hand. We test pilots to see that they are fit to fly. Likewise God tests his servants to see if they are fit to be used by him. God tested Abraham to show his faith. The Israelites were deeply tested in Egypt before God delivered them from their enemies. Jesus was no exclusion to this testing. Satan, in turn, did his best to tempt Jesus to chose his own will over the will of his Father. In spite of his weakened condition, due to fatigue and lack of food for 40 days, Jesus persistently rejected Satan's subtle and not so subtle temptations. Where did Jesus find his strength to survive the desert's cruel conditions and the tempter's seduction? He fed on his Father's word and found power in doing his will. Satan will surely tempt each on of us and will try his best to get us to choose our will over God's will. If he can not make us give up our faith or sin extremely, he will then try to get us to make choices that will lead us, little by little, away from what God wants for us.

Yesterday:	Saturday after Ash Wednesday
Tomorrow:	Monday of the First Week of Lent

Saturday after Ash Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 16:45:00 PST

Psalm 16:8: I have set the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Lord Jesus, we come to you: Our hearts are cold; Lord, warm them with your selfless love. Our hearts are sinful; cleanse them with your precious blood. Our hearts are weak; strengthen them with your joyous Spirit. Our hearts are empty; fill them with your divine presence. Lord Infant Jesus, our hearts are yours; possess them always and only for yourself.

Today's Readings ... (February 25, 2012)

Saturday after Ash Wednesday
First Reading: Isaiah 58:9b-14
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 86:1-2,3-4,5-6
Gospel: Luke 5:27-32
Lectionary: 222
Colour: Violet

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Luke 5:27-32)

When the Pharisees tested Jesus unorthodox behavior in eating with public sinners, Jesus' defense was very simple. His narration was, a doctor doesn't need to treat healthy people; as a substitute he goes to those who are sick. Jesus likewise sought out those in the greatest need. A true physician seeks curing of the whole person – body, mind, and spirit. Jesus came as the divine physician and good shepherd to concern for his people and to restore them to wholeness of life. The orthodox were so preoccupied with their own practice of religion that they neglected to help the very people who needed the greatest care. Their religion was selfish because they didn't want to have anything to do with people not like themselves. Jesus stated his mission in clear terms: I came not to call the righteous, but to call sinners. Paradoxically the orthodox were as needy as those they reviled. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Do we thank the Lord for the great compassion he has shown to us? And do we seek the good of all your neighbors and show them mercy and kindness?

Yesterday:	Friday after Ash Wednesday
Tomorrow:	First Sunday of Lent

Friday after Ash Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 17:07:00 PST

1 John 5:12: He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, revitalize in us a desire to spread your grace to every language, tribe, nation, and people. Allow us with your Spirit so that we will speak the Gospel of Jesus with courage and respect to the world and love of Him. Set us on fire and clasp us close, be fragrant to us, draw us to your loveliness, through Infant Jesus’ we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (February 24, 2012)

Friday after Ash Wednesday
First Reading: Isaiah 58:1-9a
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 51:3-4,5-6ab,18-19
Gospel: Matthew 9:14-15
Lectionary: 221
Colour: Violet

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Matthew 9:14-15)

A fasting can be done for many of reasons. To gain freedom from some bad habit, addiction, or vice, to share in the misery of those who go without, or to grow in our hunger for God and for the things of heaven. Hungering for God and fasting for his kingdom go hand in hand. When asked why he and his followers did not fast Jesus used a dramatic picture of a wedding party. At Jesus' time the newly wed celebrated their marriage at home for a whole week with all the guests. He alludes to the fact that God takes pleasure in his people as a groom delights in his bride. To be in God's presence is pure delight and happiness. But Jesus also reminds his followers that there is a time for fasting and for overwhelming oneself in preparation for the coming of God's kingdom and for the return of the King. If we hunger for the Lord, he will not upset with us. His elegance draws us to his throne of mercy and favor. Do we seek the Lord with confident trust and allow his Holy Spirit to change our life with his power and grace?

Yesterday:	Friday Sixth Week Ordinary Time
Tomorrow:	Saturday after Ash Wednesday

Friday Sixth Week Ordinary Time

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:00:00 PST

Philippians 1:21: To me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending Jesus to show us your love and thank you for sending him again soon to take us to you. He is our anchor in the storms of life and our light in the darkest nights prompting us that you love each one of us with an everlasting love. In the name of Infant Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (February 17, 2012)

Friday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time
First Reading: James 2:14-24, 26
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 112:1-2, 3-4, 5-6
Gospel: Mark 8:34 - 9:1
Lectionary: 339
Colour: Green

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 8:34 - 9:1)

Jesus addresses some probing questions to challenge our assumptions about what is most commercial and worthwhile. In every resolution of life we are making ourselves a certain kind of person. The kind of person we are, our personality, determines to a large level the kind of future we will face and live. It is probably that some can advance all the things they set their heart on, only to awaken suddenly and discover that they missed the most significant things of all. Of what value are substantial things if they don't help you gain what truly lasts in eternity? Neither money nor properties can buy heaven, mend a broken heart, or cheer a lonely person. Jesus asks the question: What will a person give in interchange for his life? All we have is an out-right gift from God. We owe him all, including our very lives. It's possible to give God what we have, but not ourselves, or to give him lip-service, but not our hearts. A true disciple joyfully gives up all that we have in interchange for an endless life of joy and happiness with God. The joy he offers no grief or loss can diminish. The cross of Christ leads to triumph and freedom from sin and death. Are we ready to lose all for Jesus in order to gain all with Jesus?

Yesterday:	Wednesday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time
Tomorrow:	Saturday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time

Wednesday Sixth Week Ordinary Time

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:39:00 PST

2 Corinthians 10:17-18: Let him who boasts boast in the Lord." For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, Lord of majesty and mercy, every good and enduring thing in our life we have because of you. While these words are simple, they are heartfelt. In Infant Jesus' name, we thank you.

Today's Readings ... (February 15, 2012)

Wednesday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time
First Reading: James 1:19-27
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm Ps 15:2-3a, 3bc-4ab, 5
Gospel: Mark 8:22-26
Lectionary: 337
Colour: Green

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 8:22-26)

The people's response to this miracle give evidence to Jesus' great care for others: He has made all things well. No problem or trouble was too much for Jesus' careful contemplation. The Lord treats each of us with kindness and sympathy and he calls us to treat one another in like kind. The Holy Spirit who dwells within us facilitates us to love as Jesus loves. Do we show kindness and compassion to our neighbors and do we treat them with considerateness as Jesus did?

Yesterday:	Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Tomorrow:	Thursday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time

Sixth Sunday Ordinary Time

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 11:00:00 PST

2 Corinthians 7:1: Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, Purify our heart, our life, our body, our influence, O God. May our words and our thoughts be blameless in your sight. We want to be holy as you are holy and honor you as only you are worthy of honor. You alone are God! Through Infant Jesus we ask this. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (February 12, 2012)

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
First Reading: Leviticus 13:1-2, 44-46
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 32:1-2, 5, 11
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1
Gospel: Mark 1:40-45
Lectionary: 77
Colour: Green

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 1:40-45)

The leper who came to Jesus did rather quite significant. He approached Jesus self-assuredly and humbly, expecting that Jesus could and would cure him and make him whole yet again. Usually a leper would be stoned or at least warded off if he tried to come close to a rabbi. Jesus not only grants the man his appeal, but he demonstrates the personal love, sympathy, and tenderness of God in his physical touch. The medical facts of his day would have regarded such contact as serious risk for incurring infection. Jesus met the man’s depression with compassion and tender kindness. He communicated the love and mercy of God in a symbol that spoke more expressively than words. He touched the man and completes him clean – not only physically on the other hand spiritually. The Lord is ready to heal us and free us from fear, prejudice, and anything else that might hold us back from approaching others with selfless love and concern for their welfare. The Holy Spirit sets us free to love as God loves – with mercy, compassion, goodness, and sympathetic care. How do we treat our neighbor, especially those who have been discarded, ill-treated, and left alone. Do we approach them with the same love and compassion which Christ has shown to us?

Yesterday:	Memorial of Saint Scholastica, Virgin
Tomorrow:	Monday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time

Memorial Saint Scholastica, Virgin

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:27:00 PST

Romans 14:8: If we live, we live to the Lord: and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, thank you so much for binding yourself to our world in Jesus and binding us close to you through his Lordship in our life. We look forward to the day when the Lord we kneel to adore today will be recognized by all the living and the dead as the One True Lord. We commit to live this day to honor him, and we know dear Father, that by honoring him we honor you. We praise and thank you for the gift of Infant Jesus' eternal and abiding lordship. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (February 10, 2012)

Memorial of Saint Scholastica, Virgin
First Reading: 1 Kings 11:29-32; 12:19
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 81:10-11ab, 12-13, 14-15
Gospel: Mark 7:31-37
Lectionary: 333
Colour: White

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 7:31-37)

Yesterday:	Thursday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time
Tomorrow:	Saturday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time

Thursday Fifth Week Ordinary Time

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:15:00 PST

Rev 3:14,20: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God's creation. ... "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, we know you long to share your presence and fellowship with us. we know you are nearby as we draw each breath. But we confess that we are often unaware, and even sometimes unappreciative of your presence. We ask you this day to come into our heart and fill our life with your presence, comfort, and power. we want our life to be lived for you and with you. Holy and Almighty God, thank you for providing Jesus as our Lord and Savior. In his name we offer my thanks and praise. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (February 09, 2012)

Thursday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time
First Reading: 1 Kings 11:4-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 106:3-4, 35-36, 37 and 40
Gospel: Mark 7:24-30
Lectionary: 332
Colour: Green

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 7:24-30)

The Jews frequently spoke of the Gentiles with arrogance and disrespect as "unclean dogs" since the Gentiles were excluded from God's covenant and good turn with Israel. For the Greeks the "dog" was a sign of dishonor and was used to describe a shameless and daring woman. Matthew's gospel records the phrase do not give dogs what is holy. Jesus, undoubtedly, spoke with a smile rather than with an abuse because this woman straight away responds with wit and faith – "even the dogs eat the crumbs". Jesus praises a Gentile woman for her unrelenting faith and for her warm love. She made the unhappiness of her child her own and she was willing to suffer rejection in order to get healing for her loved one. She also had strong determination. Her faith grew in contact with the person of Jesus. She began with a demand and she ended on her knees in reverential prayer to the living God. No one who ever wanted Jesus with faith – whether Jew or Gentile – was refused his help. Do we seek Jesus with eager faith?

Yesterday:	Wednesday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time
Tomorrow:	Memorial of Saint Scholastica, Virgin

Wednesday Fifth Week Ordinary Time

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:17:00 PST

Ephesians 2:10: We are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Loving Lord, teach us to recognize your chances and your will when they come into our life. We want to live for you without reservation. We pray for boldness to not be shy in sharing our faith. We pray for protection on those close to coming to you. We pray not for us but for your Kingdom to be shown in our life. In the name of Infant Jesus we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (February 08, 2012)

Wednesday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time
First Reading: 1 Kings 10:1-10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 37:5-6, 30-31, 39-40
Gospel: Mark 7:14-23
Lectionary: 331
Colour: Green

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 7:14-23)

When Cain became envious of his brother Abel, God warned him to protector his own heart: "Sin is couching at the door; it's wish is for you, but you must master it". Cain unluckily did not take God's warning to heart. He permitted his jealousy to grow into spite and abhorrence for his brother, and he began to look for an chance to eliminate his brother all together. When enviously and other sinful longing come knocking at the door of our heart, how do we respond? Do we entertain them and allow them to overtake us? luckily God does not leave us alone in our struggle with hurtful wish and sinful tendencies. He gives us the grace and strength we need to refuse to accept and overcome sin when it couches at the door of our heart.

Yesterday:	Tuesday Fifth Week Ordinary Time
Tomorrow:	Thursday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time

Tuesday Fifth Week Ordinary Time

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:38:00 PST

1 Corinthians 6:19-20: Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, we admit to you that we sometimes lose sight of how precious our body is to you. With aging and the other challenges that daily reminds us that our body is a vessel of decay, we find it hard to believe that we can glorify you with it. Please, through your Holy Spirit, quicken in us a deeper respect and appreciation of your presence in us. In the name of Infant Jesus we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (February 07, 2012)

Tuesday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time
First Reading: 1 Kings 8:22-23,27-30
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 84:3, 4,5 and 10, 11
Gospel: Mark 7:1-13
Lectionary: 329
Colour: Green

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 7:1-13)

Jesus gave an instance of how Pharisees with some scribes who gathered around Him use of ritual tradition excused them from fulfilling the commandment to honor one's parents. If somebody wanted to avoid the duty of financially only if their parents in old age or sickness they could say that their money or goods were an offering "given over to God" and thus excused from any claim of charity or duty to facilitate others. They broke God's law to fulfill a law of their own creation. Jesus makes clear that they void God's command because they permitted their hearts and minds to be clouded by their own ideas of religion. Jesus accused them specially two things. First is hypocrisy. Like actors, who acts, they appear to obey God's word in their external practice while they inwardly evil desire and objectives. Secondly, Jesus accused them of abandons God's word by replaced their own arguments and clever interpretations for what God requires. They listened to intellectual arguments rather than to God's word. Do we approach Jesus with a clean heart and mind? Let us the Lord to cleanse and renew us with His Holy Spirit.

Yesterday:	Memorial of Saint Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs
Tomorrow:	Wednesday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time

Memorial of Saint Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 17:08:00 PST

Psalm 119:14: I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, thank you for the new day, thank you for your written Word, your people's Scripture. May your truth come alive in our life just as it does in our heart and minds. In the name of your Son Jesus we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (February 06, 2012)

Memorial of Saint Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs
First Reading: 1 Kings 8:1-7, 9-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 132:6-7,8-10
Gospel: Mark 6:53-56
Lectionary: 329
Colour: Red

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 6:53-56)

Faith is completely free gift which God makes to us through the control of the Holy Spirit. Believing and trusting in God to act in our lives is only possible by the gift and help of the Holy Spirit who moves the heart and changes it to God. The Holy Spirit opens the eyes of the mind and helps us to know, accept, and believe God's word. How do we cultivate faith? By listening to God's word with belief and submission. Faith also grows through testing and insistence. The Lord wants to teach us how to pray in faith for his will for our lives and for the things he desires to give us to enable us to follow him devotedly and serve him generously. Jesus gave his disciples the ideal prayer which recognizes God as our Father who gives generously for his children. The Lord's prayer teaches us to look for first the kingdom of God and to pray that God's will be gifted in our lives. The Lord in turn, gives us what we require to live each day for his glory. The Lord is never too far-off or too busy to meet us and to give his blessing. Do we pray to the Father with self-assurance that he will show us his will and give us what we require to follow him? Ask the Lord to increase your faith and gratitude for his merciful love and provision for our life.

Yesterday:	Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Tomorrow:	Tuesday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time

Fifth Sunday Ordinary Time

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 11:00:00 PST

Psalm 46:1: God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, we thank you for protecting our life. We thank you for hearing my cries for help and healing. We thank you for guiding our feet into ways that have been a blessing. Please, O God, stay close by as we face the stresses and challenges in our life. Through your Holy Spirit, enable us to grow and be an example to others as we pass through life's storm. In the name of Infant Jesus, we ask this. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (February 05, 2012)

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
First Reading: Job 7:1-4,6-7
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 147:1-2,3-4,5-6
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-23
Gospel: Mark 1:29-39
Lectionary: 74
Colour: Green

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 1:29-39)

Jesus' disciples freely brought their problems to him because they found him ready and able to deal with any difficulty, suffering, or sickness which they encountered. When Simon brought Jesus to his house, his mother-in-law was immediately healed because Jesus heard Simon's prayer. Do we allow Jesus to be the Lord and Healer in our life, family, and community? Approach him with eager faith. The mighty works and signs which Jesus did show that the kingdom of God is present in him. These signs show that the Father has sent Jesus the promised Messiah. The coming of God's kingdom means defeat of Satan's kingdom. God's healing supremacy restores us not only to health but to dynamic service and care of others. There is no trouble he does not want to help us with and there is no oppression he can't set us free from. Do we take our difficulty to him with expectant faith that he will help us?

Yesterday:	Saturday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time
Tomorrow:	Memorial of Saint Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs

Saturday Fourth Week Ordinary Time

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:35:00 PST

Luke 12:6-7: Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, you already know our heart. You know where we struggle with sin; please empower and forgive us. You know our fears; please give confidence and strengthen us. You know our immaturity; please nurture and mature us. You know our weakness and disease, please comfort and heal us. Holy God, We are both overwhelmed and comforted that you know us and love us. Thank you! In Infant Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (February 04, 2012)

Saturday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time
First Reading: 1 Kings 3:4-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119:9,10,11,12,13,14
Gospel: Mark 6:30-34
Lectionary: 328
Colour: Green

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 6:30-34)

Herod had appreciated and feared John the Baptist as a great prophet and servant of God. John, however did not fear to admonish Herod for his adulterous relationship with his brother's wife. John ended up in prison for the reason of Herodias' jealousy. Herod, out of impulse and a wish to please his family and friends, had John beheaded. When Herod heard the fame of Jesus he thought that John the Baptist, whom he had beheaded, had come back from the dead. Sorry to say that for Herod, he could not rid himself of sin by ridding himself of the man who met him with his sin. He could take a strong stand on the wrong things when he knew the right. Such a stand, though, was a sign of weakness and weakness. The Lord gives grace to the meek, to those who acknowledge their sins and who seek God's mercy and pardon. His grace and pardon not only frees us from an accountable conscience, it enables us to follow holiness in thought and action as well. God's grace enables us to fight fear with faith and to overcome the attraction to compromise goodness and truth with wrongdoing and dishonesty. Do we rely on God's grace and help to choose his way of holiness and to refuse whatever would conciliation our faith and faithfulness to Christ?

Yesterday:	Friday Fourth Week Ordinary Time
Tomorrow:	Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Friday Fourth Week Ordinary Time

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:35:00 PST

Psalm 149:4: For the Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Jesus, thank you for coming to our world and serving us at immense cost and showing us that we can reign with you. We look forward to the day every other knee will join mine as we bow before you as our Lord. Until that day, we pray that you will use us to bless those so frequently forgotten by our busy and glamour-intoxicated world. To our God be glory and praise for sending you, Jesus my Lord. In the holy name of Infant Jesus we offer our praise. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (February 03, 2012)

Friday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time
First Reading: Sirach 47:2-11
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 18:31, 47 and 50,51
Gospel: Mark 6:14-29
Lectionary: 327
Colour: Green

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 6:14-29)

Yesterday:	Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
Tomorrow:	Saturday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:00:00 PST

Isaiah 33:22: The Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; it is he who will save us.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, we are glad that our fate, our future, and our life are in your hands. we know about your love for us because of the gift of Jesus. We know about your desire to save us because of your loving grace. We know your demand for holiness is met by the sacrifice of your Son. So God, we gladly and willingly trust our life, our soul, and our eternal future to you. In Infant Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (February 02, 2012)

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
First Reading: Malachi 3:1-4
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 24:7, 8, 9, 10
Second Reading: Hebrews 2:14-18
Gospel: Luke 2:22-40
Lectionary: 524
Colour: White

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Luke 2:22-40)

What is the importance of Simeon's meet with the baby Jesus and his mother in the temple? Simeon was a just and pious man who was very much in tune with the Holy Spirit. He believed that the Lord would come back to his temple and renew his chosen people. Simeon was not only in recognizing the Lord's presence in the temple. Anna, too, was overflowing with the Holy Spirit. She was found every day in the temple, attending to the Lord in prayer and speaking prophetically to others about God's assurance to send a redeemer. Anna is a model of godliness to all believers as we move ahead in ages. Advancing age and the dissatisfactions of life can easily make us pessimistic and hopeless if we do not have our hope placed correctly. Anna's hope in God and his assures grew with age. She never ceased to worship God in faith and to pray with expectation. Her hope and faith in God's promises fueled her strong zeal and passion in prayer and service of God's people. What do you hope for? The hope which God places in our heart is the wish for the kingdom of heaven and eternal life as our joy. By placing our trust in the assurance of Jesus and relying not on our own strength, but on the blessing and help of the Holy Spirit. Does our hope and zeal for God grow with age?

Yesterday:	Memorial of Saint John Bosco, Priest
Tomorrow:	Friday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Memorial Saint John Bosco, Priest

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 12:00:00 PST

1 Samuel 16:7: The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, you alone knows each one of us heart. Please help us be more patient with others before forming an opinion about them. Please give us eyes to see them as Jesus does. In Infant Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (January 31, 2012)

Memorial of Saint John Bosco, Priest
First Reading: 2 Samuel 18:9-10, 14b,24-25a, 30;19:3
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 86:1-2,3-4,5-6
Gospel: Mark 5:21-43
Lectionary: 324
Colour: Green

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 5:21-43)

Jesus gave divine hope to a father who had just lost a dearly loved child. It took substantial courage and risk for the ruler of a synagogue to honestly go to Jesus and to invite the contempt of his neighbors and relatives. Even the hired mourners laughed at him in contempt. Their grief was devoid of any expectation. Nonetheless, Jesus took the girl by the hand and delivered her from the clutch of death. This man was a ruler of the synagogue, and well-versed in the law. He had surely read that while God created all other things by his word, man had been shaped by the hand of God. He trusted therefore in God that his daughter would be bring back to him life, and restored to life by that same hand which, he knew, had created her. He who laid hands on her to shape her from nothing, once more lays hands upon her to change her from what had perished.” In both instances we see Jesus' personal apprehension for the needs of others and his readiness to heal and re-establish life. In Jesus we see the never-ending love of God extending to each and every individual as he gives freely and wholly of himself to each person he meets. Do we come close to the Lord with confident hope that he will hear our request and act?

Yesterday:	Monday Weekday Ordinary Time
Tomorrow:	Wednesday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Monday Weekday Ordinary Time

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:07:00 PST

James 1:22: Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, help us put into practice what we know is your will and your truth today. In the name of the Infant Jesus we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (January 30, 2012)

Monday, Weekday in Ordinary Time
First Reading: 2 Samuel 15:13-14,30;16:5-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 3:2-3,4-5,6-7
Gospel: Mark 5:1-20
Lectionary: 323
Colour: Green

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 5:1-20)

Jesus took compassion on the man who was overtaken by a mass of evil spirits. Do we ever feel driven by forces beyond our strength? A man driven mad by the evil force of a crowd found protection in the one person who could set him free. The destructive force of these demons is marked for all who can see as they flee and obliterate a herd of swine. After Jesus untied the demoniac the whole city came out to meet him. No one had demonstrated such power and ability against the forces of Satan as Jesus did. They feared Jesus as a result and requested him to leave them. Why would they not wish for Jesus to stay? Perhaps the price for such release from the power of evil and sin was more than they required paying. Jesus is ready and willing to free us from everything that binds us and that keeps us from the love of God. Are we willing to part with anything that strength keeps us from his love and saving grace?

Yesterday:	Fourth Sunday Ordinary Time
Tomorrow:	Memorial of Saint John Bosco, Priest

Fourth Sunday Ordinary Time

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 18:19:00 PST

Psalm 119:114: You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, thank you for the new day. You alone are dependable. You keep your word and complete your promises. Forgive us when we trust our own insight and the wisdom of others rather than seeking your will in your Word. Please give us your wisdom as we seek your will in your Word. In the name of Infant Jesus, your ultimate Word, we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (January 29, 2012)

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
First Reading: Deuteronomy 18:15-20
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 95:1-2, 6-7, 7-9
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 7:32-35
Gospel: Mark 1:21-28
Lectionary: 71
Colour: Green

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Mark 1:21-28)

Faith is both a free gift of God and the free consent of our will to the whole truth that God has exposed. To live, grow, and continue in the faith to the end, we must nurture it with the word of God. The Lord gives us his Holy Spirit to make clear our minds that we may grow in his truth and in the understanding of his great love for each of us. If we approach God’s word obediently, with an enthusiasm to do everything the Lord desires, we are in a much improved position to learn what God wants to teach us through his word. Are we eager to be trained by the Lord and to conform your life according to his word? Do you believe that God’s word has authority to set you free and to transform your life? When Jesus taught he spoke with power. He spoke the word of God as no one had spoken it before. When the Rabbis taught they sustained their statements with quotes from other authorities. The prophets spoke with entrusted authority – “Thus says the Lord.” When Jesus spoke he wanted no authorities to back his statements. He was authority incarnate - the Word of God made flesh. When he spoke, God spoke. When he commanded even the demons observed.

Yesterday:	Feast of the Holy Innocents, martyrs
Tomorrow:	Monday, Weekday in Ordinary Time

Feast of the Holy Innocents, martyrs

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 12:00:00 PST

John 14:23: Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, we know Jesus came to earth and obeyed your will. Give us discernment so that our submission will not simply be the obedience of your words, but a longing to live according to your will. We long to honor you because you have done so much to save us. Thank you Lord. In Infant Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (December 28, 2011)

Feast of the Holy Innocents, martyrs
First Reading: 1 John 1:5-2:2
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 124:2-3,4-5,7cd-8
Gospel: Matthew 2:13-18
Lectionary: 698
Colour: Red

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Matthew 2:13-18)

Suffering, martyrdom, and persecution are the lot of all who chose to follow Jesus. There is no crown or victory without the cross. It was through Jesus' suffering, disgrace, and death on the cross, that our salvation was won. His death triumph life – an eternal life for us. And his blood which was dropped for our sake obtained pardon and reunion with our heavenly Father. Suffering takes many forms: illness, sickness, handicap, physical pain and emotional shock, slander, abuse, poverty, and injustice. Mary was given the sanctity of being the mother of the Son of God. That holiness also would become a sword which penetrates her heart as her Son died upon the cross. She received both a crown of joy and a cross of grief. But her joy was not reduced by her sorrow because it was fueled by her faith, hope, and confidence in God and his promises. Jesus promised his disciples that "no one will acquire your joy from you". The Lord gives us a mystical joy which enables us to bear any sorrow or hurting and which neither life nor death can take way. Do we know the joy of a life completely surrendered to God with faith and trust?

Yesterday:	Feast of Saint John, Apostle and evangelist
Tomorrow:	The Fifth Day in the Octave of Christmas

Feast of Saint John, Apostle and evangelist

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 12:00:00 PST

Luke 2:28-32: Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: "Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, not only do we pray for peace on our earth, but we pray that the knowledge of Jesus may be spread to every where this coming year. Please make us responsive to those around us who need your blessings and give us courage and the right words to say. Please stir us to be generous with those who are spreading your Gospel throughout the world. Please bind the work of Satan to keep nations in darkness and away from grace. Make your Kingdom triumph through the growth of your word throughout the world. In Infant Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (December 27, 2011)

Feast of Saint John, Apostle and evangelist
First Reading: 1 John 1:1-4
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 97:1-2, 5-6, 11-12
Gospel: John 20:1a and 2-8
Lectionary: 697
Colour: White

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (John 20:1a and 2-8)

John in his first letter testifies: What we have seen, heard, and experienced we proclaim as the word of life which existed "from the beginning". John bears spectator to what has existed from all eternity. This "word of life" is Jesus the word became flesh, but also Jesus as the word announced by the prophets and Jesus the word now preached all over the world the Christian church for all ages to come. One thing is sure, if Jesus had not risen from the dead and appeared to his disciples, we would by no means have heard of him. Nothing else could have distorted sad and despairing men and women into people happy with joy and courage. The authenticity of the resurrection is the essential fact of the Christian faith. Through the reward of the Holy Spirit, the Lord gives us "eyes of faith" to identify him and the power of his resurrection. The most joy we can have is to encounter the living Christ and to know him for myself as our Savior and Lord.

Yesterday:	Christmas - Nativity of Jesus
Tomorrow:	Feast of the Holy Innocents, martyrs

Wish you all Very Happy Christmas!

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 10:30:00 PST

Isaiah 9:6: For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, on a day so splendid, when the world pauses and acknowledges your gift of Infant Jesus, all we can think to say is simply "Thank you! Thank you very much!" Then we are reminded once again that all we have come from him, because it is in his name, Infant Jesus, Immanuel, we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (December 25, 2011)

Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord
First Reading: Isaiah 62:11-12
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 97:1,6,11-12
Second Reading: Titus 3:4-7
Gospel: Luke 2:15-20
Lectionary: 15
Colour: White

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Luke 2:15-20)

The name John gives meaning is "the Lord is gracious." In the birth of John and in the birth of Jesus the Messiah we observe the grace of God breaking forth into a world broken by sin and death and without anticipate. John’s miraculous birth demonstrates the mercy and goodwill of God in prepare his people in support of the coming of its Lord and Savior, the Christ. When God takes action to save us he graciously fills us with his Holy Spirit and puts together our faith "alive" to his promises. Do we make our life an offering to God, along with your family, and all that you have? God wants to fill us with his splendor all the days of our lives, from birth through death. Let us renew the offering of our life to God and give him thanks for his compassion and favor towards you.

Yesterday:	Friday Fourth Week Advent
Tomorrow:	Feast of Saint Stephen, first martyr

Friday Fourth Week Advent

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 17:35:00 PST

Romans 1:16: I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, make us bolder to proclaim about You today. Give us eyes to see those who are waiting to be told especially my friends from this platform. Fill us up with your Spirit so that we will not be ashamed but will gladly proclaim the story of Jesus. Fill us life with the hopeful hope of Jesus' glorious and victorious return so that we might share it with passion and others will know of your grace. In the name of Infant Jesus we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (December 23, 2011)

Friday of the Fourth Week of Advent
First Reading: Mal 3:1-4, 23-24
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 25:4-5ab,8-9,10 and 14
Gospel: Luke 1:57-66
Lectionary: 199
Colour: Purple

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Luke 1:57-66)

Yesterday:	Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Advent
Tomorrow:	Saturday of the Fourth Week of Advent

Wednesday Fourth Week Advent

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 12:00:00 PST

Colossians 2:9-10: In Christ, all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, we acknowledge that you are too great for us to comprehend. Yet as marvelous and powerful and majestic as you are, your grace is greater still. Thank you for sending Jesus so we can know you. Thank you for sending Jesus so we could be forgiven. Thank you for sending Jesus so we can go home to you and live eternally. Thank you Jesus, for coming to redeem us and then returning back to the Father so we can speak to him through you. In your name Jesus, and because of your grace, we pray with courage before our Father. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (December 21, 2011)

Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Advent
First Reading: Zephaniah 3:14-18a
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 33:2-3,11-12,20-21
Gospel: Luke 1:39-45
Lectionary: 197
Colour: Purple

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Luke 1:39-45)

We observe the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy and the describing of God's plan of redemption in the occasions leading up to the Incarnation, the birth of the Messiah King. The new era of deliverance starts with the astounding conception of Jesus in the womb of Mary. This child to be born is conceived by the cordial action of the Holy Spirit upon Mary, who finds goodwill by God. How does Mary respond to the word of God carried by the angel Gabriel? She knows she is hearing something ahead of human capability. It will certainly take a miracle which exceeds all that God has done previously. Her question, “how shall this be, since I have no husband” is not encouraged by doubt or cynicism, but by wonderment! She is a true hearer of the Word and she right away responds with faith and trust. Mary's timely response of "yes" to the divine message is a replica of faith for all believers. Mary believed God's promises even when they appears impossible. She was full of grace because her faith that what God said was true and would be satisfied. She was willing and eager to do God's will, though it seemed difficult or expensive. Mary is the “mother of God” because God becomes incarnate when he receives on flesh in her womb. God gives us grace and he expects us to respond with the same readiness, obedience, and sincere trust as Mother did. When God commands he also gives the help, strength, and means to react. We can either yield to his grace or oppose and go our own way. Do we believe in God's promises and do we surrender to his grace?

Yesterday:	Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Advent
Tomorrow:	Thursday of the Fourth Week of Advent

Tuesday Fourth Week Advent

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 12:30:00 PST

James 1:21: Get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, with the help of your Holy Spirit, today we willingly and determinedly give up the immoral habits in our life. We recognize that these not only offend your holiness and grace, but also solidify us to your will, and blunt our witness to others. Please forgive us and sustain us as we seek to live a life wholly pleasing to you. In Infant Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (December 20, 2011)

Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Advent
First Reading: Isaiah 7:10-14
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 24:1-2,3-4ab,5-6
Gospel: Luke 1:26-38
Lectionary: 196
Colour: Purple

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Luke 1:26-38)

Yesterday:	Fourth Sunday Advent
Tomorrow:	Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Advent

Fourth Sunday Advent

noreply@blogger.com (Binoti Basumatary) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 12:00:00 PST

John 15:10: If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY ...

Heavenly Father, thank you for showing your love in Jesus. Thank you Jesus for showing us how to love our Father by obeying his will and honoring his word. Today we will willfully live in obedience to your will. Please receive our actions, our words, and our thoughts as our gift of praise to you. In Infant Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings ... (December 18, 2011)

Fourth Sunday of Advent
First Reading: 2 Samuel 7:1-5,8b-12,14a,16
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 89:2-3,4-5,27,29
Second Reading: Romans 16:25-27
Gospel: Luke 1:26-38
Lectionary: 11
Colour: Purple

Meditation on Today's Gospel: (Luke 1:26-38)

How does Mary react to the word of God delivered by the angel Gabriel? She knows she is hearing amazing beyond human capability. It will certainly take a miracle which surpasses all that God has done before. Her question, “how shall this be, since I have no husband” is not provoked by doubt or suspicion, but by amazement! She is a true hearer of the Word and she at once responds with faith and hope. Mary's prompt response of "yes" to the heavenly message is a replica of faith for all believers. Mary believed God's promises even when they look as if impossible. She was full of grace because she believes that what God said was true and would be pleased. She was willing and keen to do God's will, even if it seemed hard or costly. Mary is the “mother of God” because God becomes incarnate when he receives on flesh in her womb. Jesus, whom the Father sent from above, is true God and true man. When we pray the Nicene Creed we state our admission of faith in this great mystery: “For us men and for our deliverance he came down from heaven; by the power of the Holy Spirit, he became in the flesh of the Virgin Mary, and was made man”. God gives us grace and he expects us to react with the same willingness, fulfillment and heartfelt trust as Mary did. We begin to see the completion of this prophecy and the unfolding of God's plan of salvation in the events leading up to the Incarnation, the birth of the Messiah King. The new era of salvation begins by the miraculous conception of Jesus in the womb of Mother Mary. This child to be born is conceived by the cordial action of the Holy Spirit upon Mary, who finds goodwill with God. When God commands he also offers the help, strength, and signifies to respond. We can either yield to his grace or oppose and go our own way. Do you believe in God's assurances and do we yield to his grace?

Yesterday:	Saturday Third Week Advent
Tomorrow:	Monday of the Fourth Week of Advent