Joseph Osho

  Saturday of week 21 in Ordinary Time   1 Corinthians 1:26-31 Psalm 32(33):12-13,18-21 Matthew 25:14-30 GOD IS THE GIVER OF GIFTS The parable of the talents from today’s gospel serves as a poignant reminder that each of us possesses unique gifts and abilities, the full realization of which depends on our willingness to actively engage with them. Our responsibility is to employ our talents to the best of our capabilities for the betterment of the community. While the parable originally references a substantial sum of money, its implications extend to the intangible potential inherent within each of us. Today, the realization of our potential relies on the assistance and guidance of others. Are we contributing to the spiritual growth of those around us? May we receive divine assistance in unlocking the potential of our gifts and talents and in turn, empowering others to discover theirs. Amen.

  Friday of week 21 in Ordinary Time   1 Corinthians 1:17-25 Psalm 32(33):1-2,4-5,10-11 Matthew 25:1-13 DON’T BE CAUGHT UP  In today's Gospel, Jesus shares the parable of the foolish bridesmaids unprepared when the bridegroom arrived unexpectedly. Those who are ready and have led virtuous lives will enter the kingdom of the Lord, while those who are not prepared may not have the opportunity to repent and follow the right path. It's easy to assume that we have plenty of time ahead of us, but for some, it could all end today. How are you getting ready for the coming of the Lord? "Don’t be caught without oil in your lamp in these last days." May God guide us to walk in His ways, grow in wisdom and holiness, and live lives worthy of His love. Amen.

  The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist   1 Corinthians 1:1-9 Psalm 144(145):2-7 BEHEADED FOR THE SAKE OF THE TRUTH  As recorded in Matthew 11:11, the biblical figure John the Baptist is attested to be the greatest among the sons of men. His birth is commemorated by the Church on the 24th of June, while his death, which falls on the 29th of August, serves as another point of remembrance for his life and legacy. John the Baptist's singular mission was to direct attention to the Messiah. Even from the womb, he exhibited profound spiritual awareness, as he leaped for joy at the presence of Mary, who carried the unborn Jesus. During his youth, he withdrew to the wilderness to prepare for the coming of Christ. His preaching centered on urging people to prepare the way for the Lord and to facilitate His path through repentance and mortification. Upon the Lord's appearance, John identified Him as the Lamb of God who absolves the world of sin. John was characterized by his comm...

Saint Augustine, Bishop, Doctor   2 Thessalonians 3:6-10,​16-18 Psalm 127(128):1-2,4-5 Matthew 23:27-32 RESTING IN GOD Today the Church celebrates the memorial of St. Augustine, a distinguished saint renowned for his profound philosophical and theological contributions to the Church. Before his conversion, Augustine lived a tumultuous life, finding guidance through the prayers of his mother, St. Monica, and the influential mentorship of St. Ambrose. Much like Augustine, we too rely on the support of others to actualize our potential and contribute positively to society. Are our actions drawing others closer to God? The same divine guidance that led St. Augustine through his faith transformation also steered the Thessalonian community. Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy commended this community for their unwavering faith, love, and perseverance. As humans, we are inherently fallible and prone to hasty decisions, misconceptions, and moral failings. The exemplary life of St. Augustine urges ...

  Saint Monica   2 Thessalonians 2:1-3,​14-17 Psalm 95(96):10-13 Matthew 23:23-26 PRIORITIZE WHAT IS ESSENTIAL  In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus continues to express his disapproval of the Scribes and Pharisees. He admonishes them, using the term "Woe," for their meticulous focus on the details of the Law while neglecting the more significant aspects of the law, such as judgment, mercy, and fidelity. Jesus also criticizes them for their superficial approach, emphasizing the necessity for internal conversion – a transformation of their hearts and minds. Reflecting on our behaviors, we must prioritize the weightier aspects underlying the rules and commandments within our church: exercising judgment (discernment), showing mercy, being faithful, promoting justice, fostering peace, and ultimately, exemplifying love. However, we must refrain from attempting to control others, or even ourselves. Instead, we are called to surrender and trust in God's love, grace, and will for us....

  Monday of week 21 in Ordinary Time   2 Thessalonians 1:1-5,​11-12 Psalm 95(96):1-5 Matthew 23:13-22 FAITH AND RELIGIOSITY Today's readings highlight the contrast between sincere faith and hypocritical religious behavior. The first reading features Paul's letter commending the faith, love, and hope of the Thessalonians. In the Gospel, Jesus criticizes the religious leaders of His time for their self-righteous conduct. However, it's essential to remember that Jesus consistently shows compassion towards sinners, regardless of whether their sins are public or private. Individuals in positions of authority, especially religious figures, have a significant responsibility to use their influence and vocation to lead people closer to God, primarily through their daily embodiment of Christ's teachings. Do you have a deep understanding of the Lord's goodness, truth, and beauty? Do you dedicate time to access the kingdom through prayer, allowing you to authentically guide oth...

  21st Sunday in Ordinary Time   Joshua 24:1-2,​15-18 Psalm 33(34):2-3,16-23 Ephesians 5:21-32 John 6:60-69 THE OMNISCIENT OF CHRIST    Today’s gospel passage invites contemplation of the multifaceted nature of Jesus as both fully human and divine. It delves into the enigma of his knowledge and love, which surpass conventional human understanding. The portrayal of Jesus possessing intuitive gifts to an exceptional degree is presented, emphasizing his sinless human insight into the hearts and minds of individuals. Furthermore, today’s gospel passage explores the paradox of Jesus being both fully man and God and the implications of his divine omniscience. It delves into the concept of faith as the focal point of his awareness and affection, signifying the path to salvation. But the way is narrow and long.  And the flame is small.  It has to be tended and nurtured.  If not, there is the appalling danger that it might be extinguished by the heap of dust an...

  ST. BARTHOLOMEW, APOSTLES, FEAST   Apocalypse 21:9-14 Psalm 144(145):10-13a,17-18 John 1:45-51 COME TO JESUS  Today's readings emphasize the significance of heaven. We must stay focused on the ultimate prize, just as Bartholomew did when he sought spiritual enlightenment under the fig tree. When Philip introduced him to the Messiah from Nazareth, Bartholomew initially questioned whether anything good could come from Nazareth. However, after encountering Christ, he recognized Him as the Son of God. Bartholomew made the wisest decision of his life by coming to Jesus. As it says in Psalms 145, "The Lord is near to all who call upon Him." Our prayer life can be as simple as coming to Jesus and seeking Him for rest, as stated in Matthew 11:28. Let us also have a deep desire to draw closer to Jesus and focus on the things above where Christ is. Amen. N. B. Pray for me as I celebrate my birthday today. Thank you and God bless. 

  Friday of week 20 in Ordinary Time   Rose of Lima (Memorial) Ezekiel 37:1-14 Psalm 106(107):2-9 Matthew 22:34-40 LOVE IS LIFE  In today’s first reading, we are presented with Ezekiel's prophetic vision of the revitalization of lifeless bones, symbolizing the restoration of hope and renewal. This prompts contemplation on the pervasive impact of conflicts and desolation, invoking imagery of the bereft and the casualties of violence. When we think of the wars in Gaza and Ukraine and all sorts of conflicts of which we are unaware, it doesn’t take much imagination to imagine fields filled with the bones of so many, too many, dead. We can also imagine the bones of all victims of violence. And we can go even further and imagine so many people feeling dead inside, worn down by poverty or oppression or simply despair.  Significantly, Jesus' teaching emphasizes the primacy of love for the divine and one's fellow beings as the cornerstone of virtuous conduct and the fulfillme...