Hope in Jesus

 A bruised reed He will not break, a smoldering wick He will not quench, 

until He brings justice to victory. And in His name the Gentiles will hope. 

MATTHEW 12 : 20-21

With what shall you come before the Lord, and bow before God most high? Shall you come before Him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, with myriad streams of oil? Shall you give your first-born for your crime, the fruit of your body for the sin of your soul? - Micah 6:6-7

The Lord said, “Not for your sacrifices do I rebuke you, for your burnt offerings are before me always. I take from your house no bullock, no goats out of your fold (Ps 50:8-9). Why do you recite my statutes, and profess my covenant with your mouth, though you hate discipline and cast my words behind you? (Ps 50:16-17). When you do these things, shall I be deaf to it? Or do you think that I am like yourself? I will correct you by drawing them up before your eyes (Ps 50:21). 

Today, you have been told what is good, and what the Lord requires of you: Only to do right and to love goodness, and to walk humbly with your God (Mi 6:8). He that offers praise as a sacrifice glorifies Me; and to him that goes the right way I will show the salvation of God (Ps. 50:23).

Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will raise up a righteous shoot to David; as king He shall reign and govern wisely, He shall do what is just and right in the land (Jer. 23:5).

I myself will gather the remnant of my flock from all the lands to which I have driven them and bring them back to their meadow; there they shall increase and multiply (Jer. 23:3). In His days Judah shall be saved, Israel shall dwell in security. This is the name they give Him: “The Lord our justice.” (Jer. 23:6) 

Grace to you and peace. We give thanks to God always for all of you, remembering you in our prayers, unceasingly calling to mind your work of faith and labor of love and endurance in hope of our Lord Jesus Christ, before our God and Father, knowing, brothers and sisters loved by God, how you were chosen. For our gospel did not come to you in word alone, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with much conviction. - 1 Thessalonians 1:2-5

Published:

October 22, 2023, 8:55 AM

New Birth to a Living Hope

In the heart where faith does dwell,

A story of rebirth we tell.

Through Christ's love, we are reborn,

A living hope in us is sworn.

Looking forward to a prize,

Imperishable in the skies.

Pure and perfect, undefiled,

Promised to each faithful child.

Doing good, though trials come,

In God's eyes, we overcome.

Not punishment, but gold refined,

Strength and growth in faith we find.

More precious than the purest gold,

Is faith that's genuine and bold.

Through trials and tribulations vast,

Our faith, firmly held and steadfast.

In trials, a joy so grand,

Too glorious to understand.

From salvation's assurance springs,

A joy that makes the spirit sing.

Preserved by God's almighty hand,

For a salvation oh so grand.

Ready to be revealed in time,

The outcome of faith so divine.

Fear not threats, nor be dismayed,

In our hearts, Christ is portrayed.

Sanctified as Lord above,

In hearts transformed by His love.

REFLECTION:

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in his great mercy gave us a new birth to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you who by the power of God are safeguarded through faith, to a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the final time. (1 Peter 1:3-5)

The transformative power of faith in Christ brings about a spiritual rebirth and instills a living certain hope. Hope in looking forward to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven which is as pure, perfect, and eternal as God Himself. 

Suffering for doing good is commendable before God. We may have to go through various trials but these trials test the genuineness of our faith, which is more precious than gold. It teaches us that trials and tribulations are not punishments, but rather opportunities for growth and strengthening of faith. Despite these trials, we can rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy. Joy that stems from the assurance of salvation, which is the ultimate outcome of our faith. 

By the power of God, we are being preserved through faith for the salvation that is ready to be revealed. Let us not fear threats or be troubled, but instead sanctify Christ as Lord in our hearts.

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for the transformative power of faith in Christ, that brings about a spiritual rebirth and instills in us a living, certain hope. We look forward with joy to the inheritance that awaits us, imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven, as pure, perfect, and eternal as You, our God.

We understand that suffering for doing good is commendable before You. We may have to go through various trials, but we know these trials test the genuineness of our faith, which is more precious than gold. Help us to see these trials not as punishments, but as opportunities for growth and strengthening of our faith.

Despite these trials, fill our hearts with an indescribable and glorious joy, a joy that stems from the assurance of salvation, which is the ultimate outcome of our faith. By Your power, we are being preserved through faith, for the salvation that is ready to be revealed.

Help us not to fear threats or be troubled, but instead to sanctify Christ as Lord in our hearts. Guide us, strengthen us, and uphold us in Your righteous right hand.

In Jesus' name, we pray,

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Gift and Call of God in Baptism

BLESSING

1 Peter 1:3-12

First Reading | 1 Peter 1:3-9

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in his great mercy gave us a new birth to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you 5 who by the power of God are safeguarded through faith, to a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the final time. 6 In this you rejoice, although now for a little while you may have to suffer through various trials, 7 so that the genuineness of your faith, more precious than gold that is perishable even though tested by fire, may prove to be for praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 8 Although you have not seen him you love him; even though you do not see him now yet believe in him, you rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, 9 as you attain the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 

Background:

The background of 1 Peter 1:3-9 is rooted in the context of the early Christian communities. The First Letter of Peter is addressed to several Gentile Christian communities living in northern Asia Minor. This region was usually associated with the Apostle Paul. The author of the epistle was most likely an elder of a community established in Rome that could trace its origin back to the teachings and traditions of Simon bar Jonah.

1 Peter reflects the rapid expansion of the early church in Asia Minor. The writer explores issues of community, mission, and suffering — issues these young faith communities may have been facing. The letter speaks to the shaping of identity in the fledgling Christian community.

1 Peter 1:3-9 describes the state of being defined by God’s “great mercy,” which gives us a “new birth into a living hope,” and faith that is “for salvation”. This new birth leads to two “outcomes,” in the “now” and in the “then.” Now, this new birth leads to rejoicing “with an indescribable and glorious joy.” Now, new birth is into joy. Then, “the outcome of your faith,” is “the salvation of your souls” (1:9). And it is the promise of the “then” that brings hope and joy into the “now,” most importantly and promisingly into any now that is marked and marred by suffering, by trials, and by testing.

In the midst of 1 Peter 1:3-9, we find a metaphor which captures all of this now/then tension. 1 Peter 1:7 describes a faith that is more precious than gold, but understood through the image of gold. Faith, like gold, must be refined, tested, and purified; made “genuine”.

This passage also has a clear reference to the experience that Peter himself had shortly after Jesus’ resurrection when he and the apostles were confronted by the risen Christ and were themselves given new life in community as ekklesia, those “called out” and set apart for God’s purpose.

Learning Lessons:

1 Peter 1:3-9 offers several profound lessons for Christians:

New Birth and Living Hope: The passage begins with a blessing to God, who in His great mercy, has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. This teaches us about the transformative power of faith in Christ, which brings about a spiritual rebirth and instills a living, certain hope.

Inheritance in Heaven: The passage speaks of an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven. This inheritance is as pure, perfect, and eternal as God Himself. It reminds us of the eternal reward that awaits believers in heaven.

Faith Tested Through Trials: The passage acknowledges that Christians may have to go through various trials1. These trials test the genuineness of their faith, which is more precious than gold. It teaches us that trials and tribulations are not punishments, but rather opportunities for growth and strengthening of faith.

Joy in Salvation: Despite the trials, Christians can rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy. This joy stems from the assurance of salvation, which is the ultimate outcome of their faith.

God’s Protection: The passage assures that by the power of God, Christians are being preserved through faith for the salvation that is ready to be revealed. This teaches us about God’s protective power and the importance of maintaining an active faith in Christ.

The Value of Suffering: Suffering for doing good is commendable before God. Believers are reminded not to fear threats or be troubled, but instead sanctify Christ as Lord in their hearts.

These lessons remind us of the transformative power of faith, the hope of eternal life, the refining nature of trials, the joy of salvation, and the value of suffering for righteousness. They encourage us to remain steadfast in our faith, looking forward to the eternal inheritance that awaits us in heaven.  (Conversation with Copilot)

Hope in the Lord

In the realm where fear and reverence reside,

God's care is a beacon, a comforting tide.

For those who in His steadfast love, confide,

Find solace in His presence, a constant guide.

His words, like a symphony, in truth are dyed,

Upright and trustworthy, in Him, we confide.

Through His divine utterance, life is supplied,

Everything in existence, His word implied.

In times of trouble, when tempests collide,

On God, we depend, in His shelter, we hide.

His provision, protection, forever our stride,

In His unending mercy, we take pride.

Our hope in God, a flame that never died,

Not in worldly things that only misguide.

In His love and mercy, we continually abide,

A journey with God, an eternal ride.

REFLECTION:

May your kindness, O Lord, be upon us who have put our hope in you. (Psalm 33:22) 

God’s care is for those who fear Him and hope in His steadfast love. Everything God says and does is upright and trustworthy. Everything came into existence through His word. We can always depend on God in times of trouble and to trust in His provision and protection. Let us place our hope in God, not in worldly things, and continually seek His love and mercy.

Dear Heavenly Father,

In the quiet of our hearts, we acknowledge Your care, for those who fear You, and in Your steadfast love, share. Your words and actions, upright and trustworthy, declare, everything came into existence through Your word, fair.

In times of trouble, on You, we depend, aware, trusting in Your provision, under Your protective care. Our hope in You, not in worldly things, we swear, continually seeking Your love, Your mercy, our prayer.

Help us to remember, in every moment, everywhere, that Your love is our refuge, beyond compare. In Your mercy, we find solace, beyond despair, in Your love, we find hope, a breath of fresh air.

In Jesus' name, we pray,

Amen.

Pericope:

First Book of Psalms 1-41

PRAISE OF GOD'S POWER AND PROVIDENCE

Psalm 33:1-22

Responsorial Psalm | Psalm 33:4-5, 6, 9, 18-19, 20, 22

R: Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own. 

4 Upright is the word of the Lord, and all his works are trustworthy. 5 He loves justice and right; of the kindness of the Lord the earth is full. (R) 6 By the word of the Lord the heavens were made; by the breath of his mouth all their host. 9 For he spoke, and it was made; he commanded, and it stood forth. (R) 18 See, the eyes of the Lord are upon those who fear him, upon those who hope for his kindness, 19 to deliver them from death and preserve them in spite of famine. (R) 20 Our soul waits for the Lord, who is our help and our shield. 22 May your kindness, O Lord, be upon us who have put our hope in you. (R) 

Background:

Psalm 33 is a hymn of praise, likely penned by David, though the author is not explicitly mentioned. This Psalm is a call to rejoice in the Lord and to praise Him with songs of joy. The verses you mentioned (4-5, 6, 9, 18-19, 20, 22) highlight several key themes:

God’s Word and Works (Verses 4-5, 6, 9): These verses emphasize the upright nature of God’s word and the trustworthiness of His works. They highlight God’s love for justice and righteousness, and how the earth is full of His steadfast love. Verse 6 speaks of God’s power in creation, stating that the heavens were made by His word. Verse 9 reiterates this power, stating that when God spoke, it came to be.

God’s Care and Protection (Verses 18-19, 20, 22): These verses express the care of God for those who fear Him and hope in His steadfast love. They convey the idea that God delivers their soul from death and keeps them alive in famine. The verses also express a sense of waiting for the Lord, seeing Him as a help and shield. The final verse (22) is a plea for God’s steadfast love to be upon us, as we hope in Him.

This Psalm is often used in liturgical settings, such as the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, and it beautifully expresses the pious affections of a devout soul towards God. It is a reminder of God’s power, His care for His creation, and the importance of placing our hope and trust in Him.

Learning Lessons:

Psalm 33:4-5, 6, 9, 18-19, 20, 22 offers several valuable lessons for our lives:

Trust in God’s Word and Works (Verses 4-5, 6, 9): These verses remind us of the faithfulness and reliability of God’s word. Everything He says and does is upright and trustworthy. This teaches us to have faith in God’s promises and to trust in His plans for our lives.

Acknowledge God’s Power (Verses 6, 9): The verses speak of God’s power in creation, emphasizing that everything came into existence through His word. This encourages us to acknowledge God’s sovereignty and power in all aspects of life.

Depend on God’s Care and Protection (Verses 18-19, 20, 22): These verses express God’s care for those who fear Him and hope in His steadfast love. They convey the idea that God delivers their soul from death and keeps them alive in famine. This teaches us to depend on God in times of trouble and to trust in His provision and protection.

Hope in God (Verses 20, 22): The verses also express a sense of waiting for the Lord, seeing Him as a help and shield. The final verse is a plea for God’s steadfast love to be upon us, as we hope in Him. This encourages us to place our hope in God, not in worldly things, and to continually seek His love and mercy.

In summary, Psalm 33 teaches us to trust in God’s word, acknowledge His power, depend on His care and protection, and place our hope in Him. It’s a beautiful reminder of God’s character and His love for us. (Conversation with Copilot)

On Account of Hope

"This is the reason, then, I have requested 

to see you and to speak with you, 

for it is on account of the hope of Israel 

that I wear these chains." 

(Acts 28:20)

Hope and faith can sustain us through difficult times. These gives us the perseverance in staying committed to our beliefs, even in the most challenging circumstances. Physical constraints will not limit our ability to spread positivity and truth irrespective of obstacles. Let us always be open to others and to welcome them with kindness and understanding.

In the heart of trials, both hope and faith reside,

A beacon in the storm, a steadfast guide.

Through the darkest nights and the roughest tides,

They give us strength; in their light we confide.

Perseverance, a virtue, they bestow,

In our beliefs, we find the strength to grow.

Even when faced with formidable foe,

Our commitment to truth will only glow.

Chains may bind the body, but not the soul,

Spreading positivity, our ultimate goal.

Though obstacles rise, taking a heavy toll,

Truth breaks free, playing an unstoppable role.

Open hearts, open minds, a welcoming smile,

Kindness and understanding, worth every mile.

In the face of adversity, devoid of guile,

We stand together, making each trial worthwhile.

Dear Divine,

In the face of trials and tribulations, we seek Your guidance and grace. We pray for the strength of hope and faith to sustain us through the most difficult times. May these virtues instill in us the perseverance to stay committed to our beliefs, even when the circumstances are challenging.

We understand that physical constraints cannot limit our ability to spread positivity and truth. We pray for the courage to overcome obstacles and continue to shine Your light in the world.

Help us to always be open, to welcome others with kindness and understanding. May we reflect Your love in all our interactions, and may our hearts be a sanctuary of warmth and acceptance.

In Your name, we pray. Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Mission of Paul to the Ends of the Earth

ARRIVAL IN ROME

Acts 28:11-31

First Reading | Acts 28:16-20, 30-31

16 When he entered Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with the soldier who was guarding him. 17 Three days later he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had gathered, he said to them, “My brothers, although I had done nothing against our people or our ancestral customs, I was handed over to the Romans as a prisoner from Jerusalem. 18 After trying my case the Romans wanted to release me, because they found nothing against me deserving the death penalty. 19 But when the Jews objected, I was obliged to appeal to Caesar, even though I had no accusation to make against my own nation. 20 This is the reason, then, I have requested to see you and to speak with you, for it is on account of the hope of Israel that I wear these chains.” 30 He remained for two full years in his lodgings. He received all who came to him, 31 and with complete assurance and without hindrance he proclaimed the Kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. 

Background:

The passages Acts 28:16-20, 30-31 are from the final chapter of the Book of Acts in the Bible. This chapter narrates Apostle Paul’s journey from the island of Malta to Rome.

In Acts 28:16-20, when Paul and his companions arrived in Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself with a soldier guarding him. After three days, he called together the local Jewish leaders. He explained to them that although he had done nothing against the Jewish people or their customs, he was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. The Romans, after examining him, wanted to set him free because they found no reason for the death penalty in his case. However, when the Jews objected, Paul felt compelled to appeal to Caesar, even though he had no charges to bring against his own people. He requested to see and speak with the Jewish leaders because he was bound with a chain for the hope of Israel.

In Acts 28:30-31, Paul lived in Rome for two whole years at his own expense. He welcomed all who came to see him. During this time, he was preaching about the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ quite openly and without any hindrance.

This chapter ends with a powerful declaration of the Gospel being proclaimed freely. Paul’s ministry in Rome, despite his circumstances, demonstrates his unwavering commitment to spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ. His ability to preach and teach without hindrance, even while under house arrest, underscores the unstoppable nature of the Gospel message.

Learning Lessons:

The passages Acts 28:16-20, 30-31 offer several valuable lessons:

Perseverance in Difficult Times: Despite being a prisoner, Paul continued to preach the Gospel. This teaches us about the importance of perseverance and staying committed to our beliefs, even in challenging circumstances.

Openness and Hospitality: Paul welcomed all who came to him, demonstrating the virtues of openness and hospitality. This encourages us to be open to others and to welcome them with kindness and understanding.

Hope and Faith: Paul was bound with a chain for the hope of Israel. His faith remained strong despite his physical bondage. This serves as a reminder that hope and faith can sustain us through difficult times.

Freedom in Constraints: Even though Paul was under house arrest, he was able to preach and teach without hindrance. This shows that physical constraints do not limit our ability to spread positivity and truth.

Courage to Speak the Truth: Paul did not hesitate to explain his situation to the local Jewish leaders and assert his innocence. This teaches us the importance of speaking the truth, even when it is difficult.

Unstoppable Nature of the Gospel: The Gospel message continued to spread, regardless of Paul’s circumstances. This underscores the power of truth and its ability to spread irrespective of obstacles.

These lessons remind us of the power of faith, the importance of perseverance, and the impact of truth. They encourage us to remain steadfast in our beliefs, to be open and welcoming to others, and to have the courage to speak the truth. (Copilot)

SUBJECTED IN HOPE

Creation subjected in Hope

I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God; for the creation was subjected to futility, not of its own will but by the will of him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and obtain the glorious liberty of the children of God. -- Romans 8:18-21

Hope for adoption as Sons

We know that the whole creation has been groaning in travail together until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved (Rom 8:22-24).

See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him (1 Jn 3:1).

Beloved, we are God's children now; it does not yet appear what we shall be, but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. And every one who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure (1 Jn 3:2-3).

What is Hope?

Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. -- Romans 8:24-25

Published:

October 25, 2011, 7:47 AM

Wait with Endurance

But if we hope for what we do not see, 

we wait with endurance.

ROMANS 8:25

Creation awaits with eager expectation the revelation of the children of God; for creation was made subject to futility, not of its own accord but because of the one who subjected it, in hope that creation itself would be set free from slavery to corruption and share in the glorious freedom of the children of God. (Rom 8:19-21)

Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? To what can I compare it? It is like a mustard seed that a man took and planted in the garden. When it was fully grown, it became a large bush and the birds of the sky dwelt in its branches.” Again He said, “To what shall I compare the Kingdom of God? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch of dough was leavened.” (Lk 13:18-21)

We know that all creation is groaning in labor pains even until now; and not only that, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, we also groan within ourselves as we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. For in hope we were saved. Now hope that sees for itself is not hope. For who hopes for what one sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait with endurance. (Rom 8:22-25)

Those that sow in tears shall reap rejoicing. Although they go forth weeping, carrying the seed to be sown, they shall come back rejoicing, carrying their sheaves. (Ps 126:5-6) When the Lord brought back the captives of Zion, we were like men dreaming. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with rejoicing. Then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad indeed (Ps 126:2-3). 

Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like the torrents in the southern desert (Ps 126:4). I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us (Rom 8:18).

Be Firm in All Your Undertakings

Our hope for you is firm, 

for we know that as you share in the sufferings, 

you also share in the encouragement. -

2 CORINTHIANS 1 : 7

Blessed be God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all encouragement, who encourages us in our every affliction, so that we may be able to encourage those who are in any affliction with the encouragement with which we ourselves are encouraged.

In times when we are down and low, please lift us up and make our hearts jump for joy. Provide us with all the encouragement and support we need in order to overcome our sorrows and pains. We just surrender everything to the power of  Your great and mighty hands.

Thank You so much for your encouragement that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. In Him I stand secure and firm, enabling me to endure the hardships of work that would lead me to the attainment of my dreams, goals, and aspirations.

May your grace and blessings continue to overflow in us so that other people will benefit as well. With much love and thanksgiving, I humbly pray, in Jesus Name. Amen.