Tagged: memory verse

They thought to themselves, ‘If we say “divine,” He will ask us, “Then why did you not put faith in it?” ‘ ” –Matthew 21:25 It is evident from their answer to Jesus that the chief priests were not interested in God’s truth. Even Balaam, a pagan, mercenary seer, was interested in what God said (Nm 24:13). The chief priests would not speak on behalf of God (Mt 21:27). God made Balaam speak a word of blessing, even though Balaam was paid to speak curses (Nm 23:25-26). God used Balaam for the good of His plan. Ultimately, even the chief...

“What are we to do?” –Luke 3:12 “The crowds asked [John the Baptizer], ‘What ought we to do?’ ” (Lk 3:10) Tax collectors asked John: “What are we to do?” (Lk 3:12) Soldiers likewise asked him: “What are we to do?” (see Lk 3:14) As we near Christ’s coming, we too ask: “What are we to do?” The Lord answers our question through the Church. Traditionally, today is called “Gaudete Sunday.” “Gaudete” is a Latin word meaning “rejoice.” What we are to do is to “shout for joy” and “sing joyfully” (Zep 3:14). We are to “rejoice in the Lord...

“Why do the scribes claim that Elijah must come first?” –Matthew 17:10 There are only fourteen more repenting days before Christmas. Of the many things we need to do before Christmas, repenting should be first on the list. However, repentance is difficult, even humanly impossible. Sin blinds us to sin (see 1 Jn 2:11). It hardens and paralyzes us, thus cutting us off from repentance. Therefore, we must turn to the Lord and ask Him to do the miracle of repentance in our lives so that we will not be trapped in our sins. When we pray for the grace...

“If you would hearken to My commandments, your prosperity would be like a river.” –Isaiah 48:18 Often the readings of Advent speak of an unimaginable richness and plenty. God is not a puny God; He is mighty and abundant. He is a God Who blesses and offers life to the full (Jn 10:10). God comes to give us freedom, love, the gifts of the Spirit, power, joy, and “every spiritual blessing in the heavens!” (Eph 1:3) There is undoubtedly a daily cross and a share of suffering to bear in following the Lord Jesus Christ (Lk 9:23; 1 Pt 4:1)....