"At the Gate of Nain"

 

Gospel

Luke 7:11-17

11 Jesus journeyed to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd accompanied him. 12 As he drew near to the gate of the city, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the city was with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, “Do not weep.” 14 He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” 15 The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. 16 Fear seized them all, and they glorified God, exclaiming, “A great prophet has arisen in our midst,” and “God has visited his people.” 17 This report about him spread through the whole of Judea and in all the surrounding region.

Historical Background

The miracle occurs in the village of Nain, a small town in Galilee near Nazareth. Jesus is accompanied by a large crowd, and they encounter a funeral procession at the city gate.

In Jewish society, widows were among the most vulnerable. The death of her only son meant the woman faced not just emotional devastation but economic ruin and social marginalization.

This event echoes miracles by Elijah (1 Kings 17:10–24) and Elisha (2 Kings 4:18–37), both of whom raised sons of widows. The crowd’s reaction—“A great prophet has arisen among us”—connects Jesus to this prophetic tradition.

Theological Context

Divine power is inseparable from divine love. His compassion is not passive—it leads to action.

Luke emphasizes Jesus’ prophetic identity, aligning Him with Elijah and Elisha. Yet unlike them, Jesus raises the dead with a simple command—demonstrating divine authority. This miracle prefigures Jesus’ own resurrection and the promise of eternal life. It’s a sign that death does not have the final word.

Learning Lessons

Jesus notices the grieving widow—someone society might overlook. No one is invisible to God, He Sees the Marginalized.  

Jesus doesn’t just feel pity; He intervenes. Even in the darkest moment, Jesus brings life. This is a message of hope for anyone facing loss or grief.

The crowd glorifies God, not Jesus personally. True ministry deflects praise upward.

“At the Gate of Nain”

At the gate where sorrow stood,

A mother wept in widowhood.

Her only son, her final thread,

Now silent in the arms of death.

But through the dust, a voice drew near,

Not with pomp, but love sincere.

“Do not weep,” the Savior said,

And touched the bier that bore the dead.

“Rise,” He spoke, and breath returned,

The crowd in awe, their hearts discerned:

A prophet walks among the land,

With mercy flowing from His hand.

So when your hope begins to wane,

Remember Christ at Nain’s gate came.

He sees your tears, He knows your pain—

And speaks new life into your name.

Lord Jesus, 

Compassionate Savior, You saw the widow at Nain and did not pass her by. You felt her sorrow and turned mourning into joy. You are the God who sees, who speaks, who restores.

Today, I bring before You my griefs—spoken and silent. Touch the places in me that feel lifeless. Speak Your word of life where I have lost hope. Help me to see others as You do— To act with compassion, not just feel it. To glorify You in every miracle, every mercy. Raise in me a heart that trusts You, even when the road is steep and the gate is near. 

Amen.

Pericope:

IV: The Ministry in Galilee

RAISING OF THE WIDOW'S SON

Luke 7:11-17

Gospel Acclamation

A great prophet has arisen in our midst and God has visited his people.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

“Go to the Lost”

 

Gospel
Matthew 10:1-7

1 Jesus summoned his Twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits to drive them out and to cure every disease and every illness. 2 The names of the Twelve Apostles are these: first, Simon called Peter, and his brother Andrew; James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John; 3 Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James, the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddeus; 4 Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot who betrayed Jesus. 5 Jesus sent out these Twelve after instructing them thus, “Do not go into pagan territory or enter a Samaritan town. 6 Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’”

When God calls someone, He equips them with what’s needed—not just skills, but spiritual authority. Our mission to “Go to the lost sheep” isn't just a directive—it reflects God’s deep compassion for those who wander. We should begin where we are, with those closest to us at home.

“Go to the Lost”

He called by name, each weathered heart,  

Not polished stones, but lives torn apart.  

He gave them power—not of flesh,  

But holy fire to heal and refresh.

“Go,” He said, “to kin estranged,  

To hearts confused and paths deranged.  

Speak not of thrones or worldly fame,  

But of a Kingdom without shame.

Touch the sick and raise the dead,  

Let grace and truth be boldly spread.  

As lambs among the wolves you’ll tread—  

Yet walk in peace, by Spirit led.”

Lord Jesus, 

You sent Your twelve with purpose clear: to heal, restore, and proclaim Your reign. I thank You for Your compassion toward the lost, the weary, the overlooked.

Grant me the grace to answer Your call with courage and mercy, with boldness rooted in humility. Teach me to begin where I stand, to walk gently with authority You provide, to speak of a Kingdom not built by hands but alive in hearts transformed by love.

May I carry Your mission faithfully, as Your servant and witness, bearing Your light to those in need.

Amen.

Historical Background

In Jewish context, the number twelve likely symbolizes the twelve tribes of Israel—signaling restoration and continuity with God’s covenant people.

This scene unfolds after Jesus has been ministering among the crowds, healing diseases and casting out demons. Now, He chooses twelve men to carry forward His mission. These twelve disciples are empowered with spiritual authority to heal, cleanse, and proclaim—functions usually associated with prophets and priests.

Theological Context

Jesus transfers His authority to the disciples. It reflects His divine mission and opens a path for shared spiritual labor. He directs them to the “lost sheep of Israel,” highlighting God's covenant faithfulness and unfolding plan of salvation. The central message they carry is that “the kingdom of heaven has come near.” This echoes both urgency and divine nearness.

Pericope:

III. Ministry and Mission in Galilee

THE MISSION OF THE TWELVE / THE COMMISSIONING OF THE TWELVE

Matthew 10:1-5 / 5-15

Gospel Acclamation

The Kingdom of God is at hand: repent and believe in the Gospel.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Go to the Lost Sheep

 Jesus sent out these Twelve after instructing them thus, 

“Do not go into pagan territory or enter a Samaritan town. 

Go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 

As you go, make this proclamation: 

‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ ”

(Matthew 10:5-7)

Lord Jesus, 

In my love relationship journey with You, there is a mission that I must fulfill. A mission that will fully rest upon Your word and instruction that I go to where You wanted me to go and say what You wanted me to say. Be praised and glorified O Lord for indeed, Your kingdom is at hand.

I do confess that there is nothing that I can say and do without Your wisdom and guidance. Lead me O Lord to a deeper understanding of the Father's will. Be my hand in everything that I do and let Your Spirit speak of the words You wanted me to speak. I only serve as Your mouthpiece. I am nothing without You Lord, be with me always.

You are my one true Master. May the authority You have given me be used for the betterment of Your people and not be tainted with selfish greed and ambitions. In a special way, I humbly ask and pray for all persons with authority to live their lives in accordance with Your will and purpose. 

Thank You so much Lord for Your words. Words that are truly alive and powerful, penetrating the deepest recesses of my soul, capturing my entire being. You alone knows my thoughts, desires and wishes. You alone can make all of these come true. As always, may You forever reign in my heart as the love of my life. 

With much love and profound gratitude, I humbly pray. 

Amen.

Published:

July 12, 2023, 8:50 AM

“Harassed and Helpless”

Gospel
Matthew 9:32-38

32 A demoniac who could not speak was brought to Jesus, 33 and when the demon was driven out the mute man spoke. The crowds were amazed and said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.” 34 But the Pharisees said, “He drives out demons by the prince of demons.” 35 Jesus went around to all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom, and curing every disease and illness. 36 At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; 38 so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.”

Jesus saw people with deep empathy, not just their problems. This contrast between Jesus and the Pharisees challenges us to align ourselves with truth and mercy. As laborers of the Lord, we are urged to pray, prepare, and go—into workplaces, communities, and homes—to share God’s love.

“Harassed and Helpless”

In a field of silent cries and dimmed delight,  

A voiceless soul emerged into the light.  

The crowd was awed, the leaders sneered,  

Yet Love stood firm, untouched by fear.  

He healed, He wept, He walked each street,  

With mercy humming beneath His feet.  

Harassed and helpless—they met His eyes,  

Their suffering seen beneath the skies.  

The harvest ripe, the laborers few—  

Still He invites both me and you.  

With hearts awakened by His grace,  

Let’s step with Him to every place.

Lord Jesus, 

Shepherd of the weary and Redeemer of the broken, You saw beyond silence, beyond sickness, into the soul. You met accusations with unwavering love, and turned compassion into mission.

I come to You now— Not just to be healed, but to be sent. Help me see others as You do: Harassed, helpless, hungry for hope. Make my heart Your harvest field. Equip me to labor with joy, to speak peace where there’s turmoil, and to love boldly, even when opposed.

Amen.

Historical and Cultural Context: 

First-century Judea was under Roman rule. Pharisaic influence was strong, emphasizing ritual purity and strict interpretation of the Law. There was deep anticipation for the Messiah, but also spiritual fatigue. People suffered not only physically, but were “harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd”. This scene unfolds during Jesus’ Galilean ministry, a time of active teaching, healing, and proclaiming the kingdom of God.

Theological Context

Christology: Jesus is revealed as both the compassionate Shepherd and sovereign Lord over spiritual forces.

Missiology: A call to active participation in God’s mission—healing, proclaiming, and shepherding those who are lost.

Pericope:

III. Ministry and Mission in Galillee

THE HEALING OF A MUTE PERSON / THE COMPASSION OF JESUS

Matthew 9:32-34 / 35-38

Gospel Acclamation

I am the good shepherd, says the Lord; I know my sheep, and mine know me.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Until the One is Found

Gospel

Luke 15:3-7

3 Jesus addressed this parable to the Pharisees and scribes: 4 “What man among you having a hundred sheep and losing one of them would not leave the ninety-nine in the desert and go after the lost one until he finds it? 5 And when he does find it, he sets it on his shoulders with great joy 6 and, upon his arrival home, he calls together his friends and neighbors and says to them, ‘Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you, in just the same way there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance.”

“Until the One is Found”

A hundred hearts beneath the sun, 

Yet love will chase the wandering one. 

The fold is full, the flock secure, 

But mercy’s path will still endure.

He leaves the rest, no fear, no bound, 

Through shadowed vale and thorny ground. 

No stone too steep, no dusk too deep, 

To find the lamb that dared to sleep.

And when it's found—O joy, O song! 

He lifts it high, where it belongs. 

Not blame, nor shame, nor stern rebuke, 

But shoulders strong and love’s repute.

So heaven stirs with holy cheer, 

For one who turns and draws God near. 

For grace forgets the ninety-nine, 

To light a feast for one divine.

Lord Jesus, 

You are the Shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine to search the hills and valleys of my wandering. When I am lost—confused, afraid, or far— You do not wait for me to find my way, You come. You carry. You rejoice.

Thank You for never giving up on me, for seeking me not with condemnation, but with compassion that lifts and restores. Thank You for the joy in Your heart Each time I turn again toward You.

Teach me to know the worth You see in every soul— Even those the world dismisses or forgets. Let me reflect Your mercy, Your pursuit, Your joy.

Today, Shepherd of my soul, lead me home again and use me to help find those still lost. For Yours is the flock, the journey, and the celebration. Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SHEEP

Luke 15:1-10

Gospel Acclamation

I am the good shepherd, says the Lord; I know my sheep, and mine know me.

Luke 15:3–7 is the Parable of the Lost Sheep, and it’s a powerful window into both the heart of Jesus’ ministry and the social-religious tensions of His time.

Historical Context

This parable is set within a broader moment of tension: Jesus is being criticized by Pharisees and scribes for welcoming and eating with “tax collectors and sinners” (Luke 15:1–2). In first-century Jewish society, table fellowship was a deeply symbolic act—it signified acceptance and inclusion. The religious elite saw Jesus’ actions as scandalous, undermining their strict boundaries of purity and righteousness.

Jesus responds not with a lecture, but with a story. In a pastoral society like ancient Palestine, shepherding was a familiar and earthy image. A shepherd leaving 99 sheep to find one would have been seen as both risky and deeply committed. This would resonate with the common people, but challenge the religious leaders’ assumptions about who was worth pursuing.

Theological Background

Theologically, this parable reveals the radical grace of God. The shepherd represents God (or Christ), who actively seeks out the lost rather than waiting for them to return. The joy over one sinner who repents is contrasted with the 99 “righteous” who feel no need for repentance—perhaps a subtle critique of the self-righteous religious leaders.

This parable also echoes Old Testament imagery: God as the shepherd of Israel (Psalm 23; Ezekiel 34). But Jesus intensifies the image—God doesn’t just shepherd the flock; He goes after the one who strays, lifts it onto His shoulders, and celebrates its return.

Key Insight

The parable flips the religious logic of the day: God’s kingdom isn’t about maintaining the status quo of the righteous—it’s about relentless pursuit of the lost. And heaven rejoices not over rule-keeping, but over restoration.

Learning Lessons

Luke 15:3–7, the Parable of the Lost Sheep, offers rich and deeply personal lessons that speak to the heart of God’s love and our human condition. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Every Soul Matters - The shepherd leaves 99 sheep to find the one that is lost. This teaches us that God values each individual immensely—no one is insignificant or beyond His care.

2. God Actively Seeks the Lost - The shepherd doesn’t wait for the sheep to return. He goes out, searches, and carries it home. This reflects God’s initiative in pursuing us, even when we stray.

3. Heaven Rejoices Over Repentance - Jesus says there is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over 99 who don’t need to. This flips the script on religious pride and reminds us that God celebrates restoration, not reputation.

4. We Are All Prone to Wander - Like sheep, we can easily lose our way. This parable invites humility—it’s a reminder that we all need grace, and we all need to be found.

5. God’s Love Is Personal and Persistent - The shepherd doesn’t give up. He searches until he finds the sheep. That’s a picture of relentless love—a love that doesn’t quit, even when we do.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Do For Jesus

"Amen, I say to you, 

whatever you did 

for one of these 

least brothers of mine, 

you did for Me."

(Matthew 25:40)

Jesus teaches about service and kindness. He is saying that when we help others, especially those who are in need or less fortunate, it’s as if we are doing it for Him. This teaching emphasizes the importance of empathy and compassion in our actions. Moreover, doing righteous deeds leads to eternal life. 

In the heart's quiet echo, a whisper is heard, 

"Amen, I say to you," speaks the gentle Word. 

"Your deeds of love, though they may seem small, 

reflect in My eyes, the greatest of all. 

For the cup of water given in My name 

to the least of brothers, it's to Me the same. 

The kindness you showed to the one in need 

is like a heavenly flower, sown from a seed. 

When you clothed the naked, fed the poor, 

you did it for Me, of this be sure. 

Your love, your compassion, your tender care 

is a sweet offering, beyond compare. 

So continue to serve, continue to love, 

for what you do below, is seen above. 

Remember, my child, in each face you see, 

whatever you did for them, you did for Me."

Lord Jesus, 

In Your words, we find a guiding light, "Amen, I say to you," resonates in the quiet of the night. In every act of kindness, in every deed of love, we see Your face, in the heavens above. 

When we reach out to the least of our brothers, we reach out to You, there are no others. In the hungry we feed, in the naked we clothe, we see Your love and make an oath. To serve You Lord, in all that we do, to remember always, our actions are unto You. Help us to see You, in every face, and to serve our brothers, with grace. 

With much love and thanksgiving, we pray. Amen.

Pericope:

VI: Ministry in Judea and Jerusalem

THE JUDGMENT OF THE NATIONS

Matthew 25:31-46

Gospel Acclamation

Behold, now is a very acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.

Gospel | Matthew 25:31-46

31 Jesus said to his disciples: “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit upon his glorious throne, 32 and all the nations will be assembled before him. And he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. 34 Then the king will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.’ 37 Then the righteous will answer him and say, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? 39 When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?’ 40 And the king will say to them in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’ 41 Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you accursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, 43 a stranger and you gave me no welcome, naked and you gave me no clothing, ill and in prison, and you did not care for me.’ 44 Then they will answer and say, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison, and not minister to your needs?’ 45 He will answer them, ‘Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.’ 46 And these will go off to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”

Reflection Source:

Copilot with Bing Chat

Published:

February 19, 2024, 7:25 AM

Do Things For Christ

 "Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one 

of these least brothers of mine, you did for Me."

MATTHEW 25:40

These words, spoken by Jesus, encapsulate the essence of compassion and selflessness. They remind us that acts of kindness, no matter how small, resonate beyond the immediate moment—they touch the divine.

Christ’s ministry was marked by healing, feeding, and comforting the least among us. When we do likewise, we serve Christ Himself. 

"Do things for Christ” invites us to shift our focus from self-centered pursuits to a higher purpose. It’s a call to live beyond our own needs and desires, seeking to serve others with love and compassion. When we do things for Christ, we align our actions with His teachings and example. It’s not merely about religious rituals but about embodying Christ’s love, grace, and selflessness.

Whether grand or mundane, every action becomes significant when done for Christ. A smile, a helping hand, a kind word—all ripple through eternity.

Jesus said to his disciples: “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit upon his glorious throne, and all the nations will be assembled before him. And he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the king will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.’ Then the righteous will answer him and say, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?’ And the king will say to them in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’ Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you accursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, a stranger and you gave me no welcome, naked and you gave me no clothing, ill and in prison, and you did not care for me.’ Then they will answer and say, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison, and not minister to your needs?’ He will answer them, ‘Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.’ And these will go off to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.” (Matthew 25:31-46)

When we extend a helping hand to someone in need, when we listen to a hurting heart, when we share our resources with generosity, we participate in a sacred exchange. We encounter the face of the Divine in the faces of those we serve.

The “least brothers” represent the marginalized, the vulnerable, the forgotten. They are the ones society often overlooks—the hungry, the lonely, the oppressed. When we reach out to them, we encounter Christ Himself.

May these words inspire us to live with open hearts, to recognize the sacredness in every encounter. For in serving others, we serve the One who said, “I was hungry, and you gave me food; I was thirsty, and you gave me drink” (Matthew 25:35).

May our actions echo through eternity, woven into the fabric of love that binds us.

Pericope:

VI: Ministry in Judea and Jerusalem

THE JUDGMENT OF THE NATIONS

Matthew 25:31-46

Reflection Source:

Microsoft Bing

Published:

November 26, 2023