The Holy Family of Nazareth: The Christian Model

 Readings: (1st: Sirac 3, 2-6. 12-14: Ps 128, 1-5; 2nd: Col 3, 12-21: Gos: Lk 22, 22-40)    

This brief reflection was written by Rev. Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a Member of the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers and Brothers (Spiritans). He is currently working with the Spiritan International Group of Puerto Rico &  Dominican Republic. He is the Administrator of Parroquia La Resurrección del Senor, Canovanas and the Chancellor of the Diocesis of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. For more details and comments contact him on:  canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

Today is the first Sunday of Christmas. It is a Sunday dedicated to the Holy Family of Nazareth. That is, the family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. It is the model of every true Christian Family. Sociologically speaking, the family is the nucleus of the human society and the place where life and learning begins.

The importance of today’s celebration both in the life of the church and our society cannot be underestimated. First, it is meant to remind us of the specific and important role of the family as a sacred institution. That is, that the sustenance and subsistence of our society depends on the continuous existence of the family.

Second, this celebration reminds us of the right constitution of a family. That is, the right and naturally accepted union of a father, mother and their children. Hence, any union (like same sex) other than this in the name of family, is an aberration. It is also against God, who in the beginning made them male and female. He did not take the rib of Adam to create another man for Adam to cohabit with. Instead, he took Adam’s ribs and created a biologically and functionally different human being, woman (Gen 1; 2).

The first reading of this Sunday explicitly outlines the three different components of a family: father, mother and children. It equally outlines the position of each member in relation to one another: “The Lord honors the father in his children; a mother’s authority he confirms over her sons.” Each is important and unique in their positions.

Importantly, the Sirac emphasized the role of children towards their parents. This role centers on honor and obedience to one’s parents. Paul re-echoes this: “Children, it is your Christian duty to honor your parents…Respect your father and your mother is the first commandment that has a promise attached to it; so that it may go well with you” (Ep 6, 1-4).

In today’s second reading, Paul reminds us of the Christian virtues that are very important to sustain our families. Each member of the family must strive to acquire them. These include:  compassion, kindness, patience, and forgiveness towards every member of our family. Most importantly, Paul says: “Put on love and let the peace of Christ control your hearts.” 

Most families are not living in peace today. Instead of wearing the garment of love, they wear that of hatred. Paul sums up by reminding us of the role of each member of a family: “Fathers, love your wives and avoid bitterness towards them…Wives, respect your husbands…Children, obey your parents.” These roles are crystal clear.

In addition to the virtues that Paul enumerated above, today’s gospel presents us with very important characteristics of a family. That is prayer and unity of purpose. Together, Mary and Joseph took their son Jesus to the temple to be consecrated. So, they acted and prayed together for the good of their family.

When Herod threatened their baby, they decided together in prayers to flee to Egypt. This is a very important virtue to emulate from them today as we celebrate. This is especially in our world where individualism has done a great harm to our family relations. Prayer and unity sustain and help our families. This is especially, during difficult moments in life. This is true of the saying that “united we stand, divide we fall.” Therefore, let us pray, Jesus, Mary and Joseph: make our hearts like unto yours. Merry Christmas!

Peace be with You!

Maranatha!

La Sagrada Familia de Nazaret: El Modelo Cristiano
Lecturas: (1^ra: Sir 3, 2-6. 12-14: Sal 127, 1-5; 2^da: Col 3, 12-21: Ev: Lc 22, 22-40)

Esta breve reflexión fue escrita por el Reverendo Padre Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. Él es un sacerdote católico y un miembro de la Congregación de los Padres y Hermanos del Espíritu Santo (Espirítanos). Él está trabajando con el Grupo Internacional Espirítano De Puerto Rico y República Dominicana. Él es el administrador de la Parroquia La Resurrección del Señor, Canóvanas y el Canciller de la Diócesis de Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. Para más detalles y comentarios se puede contactarlo en: canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, cancilleriadfh@gmail.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

Hoy es el primer domingo del tiempo de Navidad. Es un domingo dedicada la Sagrada Familia de Nazaret. Es decir, la familia de Jesús, María y José. Es el modelo de toda familia cristiana. Sociológicamente hablando, la familia es el núcleo de la sociedad humana, y el lugar donde vida y aprendizaje comienzan.

 La importancia de la celebración de hoy tanto en la vida de la iglesia y de la sociedad no puede ser subestimado. Primero, es para recordarnos del importante y papel especifico de la familia como una institución sagrada. Es decir, que el sustento y subsistencia de nuestra sociedad depende en la existencia continua de la familia.

Segunda, esta celebración nos recuerda de la constitución de una familia. Es decir, la justa y naturalmente aceptada unión del padre, madre y sus hijos. Por tanto, cualquiera unión (como mismo sexo) aparte de esto en nombre de la familia, es una aberración. Es también contra Dios que los creó hombre y mujer al principio. Él no tomó la costilla de Adán para crear a otro hombre para cohabitar con él. en cambio, tomó la costilla de Adán y creó un ser humano biológicamente y funcionalmente diferente, mujer (Gen 1 y 2).

La primera lectura de este domingo explícitamente describe los tres diferentes componentes de la familia: el padre, la madre y los niños. Igualmente, subraya la posición de cada miembro en relación con uno al otro: “Dios honra el padre en sus hijos, y afirma la autoridad de la madre sobre los hijos.” Cada uno es importante y único en sus posiciones.

Importante, Sirac enfatizó el papel de los hijos hacia sus padres. Este papel se centra en honor, y obediencia hacia nuestros padres. Pablo lo re-eco: “Hijos es su debe cristiano obedecer a sus padres…Honoran a sus padres y a sus madres. Es el primer mandamiento que lleva una promesa; Para que sean felices y se prolonguen su vida en la tierra” (Ef. 6, 1- 4).

En la segunda lectura, Pablo nos recuerda las virtudes cristianas que son bien importante para sostener nuestras familias. Cada miembro de la familia debe hacer esfuerzos para adquirir las. Estas incluyen: compasión, ternura, bondad, paciencia y el perdón. Más importante, Pablo dice: “Sobre todo esto, vestirse con el amor y dejen que la paz del Cristo controla sus corazones.”

La mayoría de las familias no viven en paz hoy. En lugar de vestirse con el amor, se visten con el odio. Pablo resume recordándonos del papel de cada miembro de la familia: “Padres, aman a sus esposas, y no sean ásperos con ellas…Esposas, respectan a sus esposos…Hijos, obedecen a sus padres… y padres no exasperan a sus hijos.” Estas funciones son bien claras.

Además de las virtudes que Pablo enumeró en la segunda lectura, el Evangelio de hoy nos presenta bien importantes características de la familia. Estas son, oración y unidad en momentos difíciles. Juntos José y María llevaron a Cristo para consagrarlo en el templo. Así que, se actuaron juntos para el bien de su familia.

Cuando Herodes amenazó su bebé, decidieron juntos en oraciones huir a Egipto. Esta es una virtud bien importante emular de la sagrada familia que celebramos hoy. Esto es bien importante en un mundo donde individualismo ha hecho un gran daño a nuestra relación familiar. Oración y unidad sostienen y ayudan nuestras familias. Esto es especialmente, durante momentos difíciles en la vida. Así que, este dicho es cierto y verdad: “unidos vencemos, divididos caemos.” Por tanto, pidámosle a la sagrada familia de Nazaret que nos ayuda como decimos: “Jesús, María y José, hacen nuestros corazones como suyos, Amén!

 ¡La paz sea con ustedes!

¡Maranatha!

The Grace Of God Has Appeared – Emanuel 
Readings: 1^st: Is 9: 1-6: Ps: 95; 2^nd: Titus 2: 11-14 Gos: Lk 2: 1-14

This brief reflection was written by Rev. Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a Member of the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers and Brothers (Spiritans). He is currently working with the Spiritan International Group of Puerto Rico &  Dominican Republic. He is the Administrator of Parroquia La Resurrección del Senor, Canovanas and the Chancellor of the Diocesis of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. For more details and comments contact him on:  canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

Dear brethren, this is the night for which we have been preparing for the past four weeks. Today, unto us is born the saviour of the world, the prince of peace, the king of kings and the Lord of lords.

The good news is simple, God has fulfilled his promise to his people, God is with us. Most importantly, God has shown us his great mercy and love. With the events of this night, we have seen the great fidelity of God to us, his people.

Our first reading this night of Christmas from the book of the prophet Isaiah, captures and summarizes what we have achieved through the birth of Emmanuel, God with us. The prophet says: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light. On those who live in the land of deep shadow, a great light has shone.”

The light of God that shines on us is Christ, the newly born. He is the light of the nations and of all who have accepted him. Never again, shall we walk in darkness. He came to dispel the darkness that darkened our hearts and our world.

Most importantly, with the birth of Christ this night, we have begun a new season of joy, a new season of our salvific history and a new life full of hope, because, God is with us.

As Titus captures it in our second reading, with the birth of Christ today: “The grace of God had appeared, and it has made salvation possible for the whole human race…The glorious appearance of our great God and savior, Jesus Christ.”  Also, this night we live in a new season of the grace of God, which God himself, has fashioned for us.

Finally, our duty in during this time of Christmas is to do what the shepherds and angels did, adoring the child Jesus and singing the glory of the Lord. Therefore, our song today, and forever shall be: “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men of good will, who enjoy God’s favors.”

Also, it behooves us to spread the good news to the ends of the world. That today, en Bethlehem, of Nazareth to us is born a great saviour. Rejoice brethren for God has shown us his great mercy.

Peace be with you!

Merry Christmas!

Ha Aparecido La Gracia De Dios – Emanuel

Lecturas: 1^ra: Is 9: 1-6: Sal 95; 2^da: Tito 2: 11-14 Ev: Lc 2: 1-14

Esta breve reflexión fue escrita por el Reverendo Padre Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. Él es un sacerdote católico y un miembro de la Congregación de los Padres y Hermanos del Espíritu Santo (Espirítanos). Él está trabajando con el Grupo Internacional Espirítano De Puerto Rico y República Dominicana. Él es el administrador de la Parroquia La Resurrección del Señor, Canóvanas y el Canciller de la Diócesis de Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. Para más detalles y comentarios se puede contactarlo en: canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, cancilleriadfh@gmail.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

Queridos hermanos, esta es la noche por la cual hemos sido preparando hace cuatro semanas. Hoy a nosotros se nace el salvador del mundo, el príncipe de la paz, el rey de los reyes y el señor de los señores.

La buena noticia es sencilla, Dios ha cumplido su promesa a su pueblo, Dios está con nosotros. Y más importante, Dios nos ha mostrado una gran misericordia y amor. Con el acontecimiento de esta noche, hemos visto la gran fidelidad de Dios a su nosotros su pueblo.

Nuestra primera lectura de esta noche de Navidad del libro del profeta Isaías, captura y se resume todo lo que hemos logrado por el nacimentero de Emanuel, Dios está con nosotros. El profeta dice: “El pueblo que caminaban en tinieblas vio la luz grande, habitaban tierras de sombras, y una luz les brillo.”

La luz de Dios que brille sobre nosotros es Cristo, el recién nacido. El es la luz de las naciones y de todo que lo han aceptado. Y nunca más camináramos en las tinieblas. El vino para disparar las tinieblas que oscarizó nuestros corazones y a nuestro mundo.

Mas importante, con el nacimiento de Cristo esta noche hemos empezado una nueva etapa de alegría, una nueva etapa de nuestra historia salvífica, un a nueva vida llena de esperanza, porque, Dios esta con nosotros.

Como Tito lo captura en nuestra segunda lectura, con el nacimiento de Cristo hoy: “Ha aparecido la gracia de Dios que trae la salvación para todos los hombres…la aparición gloriosa del grande Dios y Salvador nuestro señor: Jesucristo.” Por eso, también, vivimos en una nueva etapa de la gracia de Dios, por lo que Él ha hecho por nosotros esta noche.

Finalmente, nuestro debe en este tiempo de navidad es hacer lo que los pastores y los ángeles hicieron, alabar al niño Jesús, cantando la gloria del señor. Por eso, nuestro cantico hoy, y en adelante será: “Gloria a Dios en el cielo y en la tierra paz a los hombres que Dios ama.”

También, a nosotros consta, a difundir la buena noticia hasta los confines del mundo que hoy, en belén de Nazaret, nos a nacido un gran salvador. Alégrense hermanos porque Dios, nos ha mostrado su gran misericordia.

La paz se ustedes

Feliz Navidad

¡Miran, La Palabra Está Entre Nosotros!
Lecturas: (1^ra: Is 52, 7-10; Sal: 97, 1-6; 2^da: Heb 1, 1-6; Ev: Jn 1, 1-18)

Esta breve reflexión fue escrita por el Reverendo Padre Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. Él es un sacerdote católico y un miembro de la Congregación de los Padres y Hermanos del Espíritu Santo (Espirítanos). Él está trabajando con el Grupo Internacional Espirítano De Puerto Rico y República Dominicana. Él es el administrador de la Parroquia La Resurrección del Señor, Canóvanas y el Canciller de la Diócesis de Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. Para más detalles y comentarios se puede contactarlo en: canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, cancilleriadfh@gmail.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

Hoy es el día de Navidad. Este es el día que hemos esperado, y para el cual nos hemos preparado. Navidad es un hito en la historia de nuestra salvación. Así que, es maravilloso saber que “Dios está con nosotros”. El mensaje central de la celebración de hoy es la encarnación de Jesucristo. Por lo tanto, tenemos todas razones de ser feliz, porque este día nació el príncipe de la paz.

Nuestra primera lectura de Isaías encuentra su ámbito de realización en el nacimiento, vida y ministerio de Cristo. Isaías proclama: “Qué hermosos son sobre los montes los pies del mensajero que anuncia la paz, que trae la buena nueva…” De hecho, la buena nueva está entre nosotros. Es nuestra responsabilidad anunciar la buena nueva. Es la buena nueva del amor, paz, caridad, esperanza, felicidad y salvación.

Por lo tanto, todo que han esperado fielmente, pacientemente y vigilantemente, debemos elevar nuestras voces y gritar de gozo, porque Dios está con nosotros. Es una llamada adorar y alabar a Emanuel, Dios con nosotros. Es un llamado para adorar al Rey recién nacido y el príncipe de la paz. Es una llamada a ser feliz y compartir la buena noticia.

En la segunda lectura, la carta a los hebreos captura y presenta lo que Dios hizo para nosotros hoy en una manera espectacular: “Dios habló a nuestros ancestros a través de los profetas…en nuestro tiempo, nos habló por el Hijo…Es la luz radiante la gloria de Dios, y la perfecta copia de su naturaleza…” La carta a los hebreos simplemente significa que Dios ha cumplió la promesa que Él hizo al revelar el misterio oculto de la salvación a nosotros.

Hoy, la revelación ha alcanzado su apogeo. El misterio oculto de la antigua alianza ha sido revelado en la palabra hecha carne. Por lo tanto, no necesitamos ninguna revelación más.  Esto es porque, Dios ha revelado su mismo plenamente en Cristo, la luz radiante de la gloria del Padre.

El Evangelio de Juan nos da la sinopsis de lo que sucedió hoy, la encarnación divina de Dios: La Palabra estaba con Dios…la Palabra hecha carne, y habitó entre nosotros, y hemos visto su gloria.”  Hoy, Dios el hijo ha revelado Dios el padre. La palabra que estaba con el padre como espíritu, ahora está con nosotros, tanto en carne y espíritu.

Lo que celebramos hoy es amor, porque: “…Tanto amó a Dios al mundo, que le envió a su hijo único…” (1Jn 3,1). Debemos estar dispuestos a compartir este amor. Dios envío a Cristo por amor. Cristo aceptó a venir por su amor para nosotros. También, María y José cooperaron con Dios para traer a Jesús al mundo, por su amor para la humanidad.

Hoy, celebramos Sacrificio. Así que, debemos estar listos a sacrificar algo por el bien de nuestros hermanos, como Cristo lo hizo por dejar su trono celestial para estar con nosotros. Hoy, celebramos humildad. Debemos aprender a ser humildes de Cristo, quien, a aún era rico, hacerse pobre por nosotros. Sí, nació en lo más bajito de los lugares, el pesebre.

Finalmente, hoy, celebramos la reina de la paz, porque, el príncipe de la paz está con nosotros. Hoy, celebramos esperanza, porque, el nacimiento de Cristo es la esperanza de nuestra salvación. Por lo tanto: “Tocan la cítara para el Señor, suenen los instrumentos; con clarines y al son de trompetas aclaman al Rey y Señor” que está con nosotros.

¡Feliz Navidad!

¡La paz sea con ustedes!

¡Maranatha!

Behold, The Word Is Among Us!

Readings: (1st: Ish 52, 7-10; Ps: 97, 1-6; 2nd: Heb 1, 1-6; Gos: John 1, 1-18)

This brief reflection was written by Rev. Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a Member of the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers and Brothers (Spiritans). He is currently working with the Spiritan International Group of Puerto Rico &  Dominican Republic. He is the Administrator of Parroquia La Resurrección del Senor, Canovanas and the Chancellor of the Diocesis of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. For more details and comments contact him on:  canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

Today is Christmas day, the day we have long waited and prepared for. Christmas is a milestone in the history of our salvation. So, it is wonderful to know that God is with us. The central message of today’s celebration is the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Therefore, we have every reason to be happy because, the prince of peace is born.

Our first reading from Isaiah finds its sphere of accomplishment in the birth, ministry and life of Christ. Isaiah proclaims: “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the one who brings the Good News.” Indeed, the good news himself is among us. The onus now lies on us to spread it. It is the good news of love, peace, hope, happiness and salvation.

Therefore, all who have waited faithfully, patiently, and vigilantly must shout for joy because God is with us. Hence, Isaiah calls us to celebrate Emmanuel, God with us. It is a call to adore and worship the new born king. It is a call to be joyful and to spread the good news.

In our second reading, the letter to the Hebrews captures, and presents what God did for us today in a spectacular manner: “God Spoke to our ancestors through the prophets; but in our own time…he has spoken to us through the son…He is the radiant light of God’s glory and the perfect copy of his nature….” The letter to the Hebrews simply means that God has fulfilled the promise he made by revealing the hidden mystery of salvation to us.

Today, revelation has reached its climax. The hidden mystery of the old covenant has been revealed in the Word made flesh. Therefore, we need no further revelation, because, God himself has revealed himself fully in Christ, the radiant light of the father’s glory.

The gospel of John concisely gives us the synopsis of what happened today, the divine incarnation of God: “The Word was with God…The Word was made flesh, He lived among us, and we saw His glory.” Today, God the Son has revealed God the Father. The Word which was with the Father as Spirit, is now with us both as flesh, as well as spirit.

What we celebrate today is love because: “…God so loved the world that he sent his only begotten son (Jn 3, 16). We must be ready to share this love. God send Christ out of love. Christ accepted to come to us because of his love for us. Also, Mary and Joseph cooperated with God to bring Christ into the world due to their love for humanity.

Today, we celebrate sacrifice.  So, we too must be ready to sacrifice something for the good of our brothers and sisters as Christ did by leaving his heavenly throne in order to be with us. Today, we celebrate humility. We must learn humility from Christ, who, though was rich, became poor for our sake. Yes, he was born in the lowliest place, the manager.

Finally, today, we celebrate the reign of peace, because the prince of peace is with us. Today, we celebrate today hope because Christ’s birth is the hope of our salvation. Today is a day of joy. Therefore, let us: “Sing psalms to the Lord with harp, with the sound of music, with trumpets and the sound of the horn, let us acclaim the King and the Lord,” who is with us.

Merry Christmas!

Peace be with you all!

Maranatha!

The Mystery In Mary, The Ark Of The New Covenant

Readings: 1st: 1Sam 7, 1-5. 8-16: Ps 88, 2-5. 27. 29; 2nd: Rom 16, 25-27: Gos: Lk 1, 26-38

This brief reflection was written by Rev. Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a Member of the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers and Brothers (Spiritans). He is currently working with the Spiritan International Group of Puerto Rico &  Dominican Republic. He is the Administrator of Parroquia La Resurrección del Senor, Canovanas and the Chancellor of the Diocesis of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. For more details and comments contact him on:  canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

Today is the fourth and last Sunday of Advent. Today’s celebration is a great song to the everlasting love of God revealed in his covenant with his servant David. The mystery of the Old Covenant will soon to be revealed in Mary, the ark of God’s New Covenant.

In our first reading, in appreciation of God’s love, David wished to build a house for God. However, God would not allow him. Instead, God made a promise to David, and sealed it with a covenant: “…I will preserve the offspring of your body after you…I will be a father to him, and he will be a son to me …your throne will be established forever” This promise and covenant is what we expect to be fulfilled soon.

It is based on this same promise that both Luke and Matthew proceeded to traced and wrote the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Mt 1:1-17; Lk 3: 23-38). The reason was to prove that Jesus is actually an off spring of David, and one whom the prophets spoke about. The hidden mystery of the old covenant is about to be revealed in the new covenant.

n our second reading, Paul gives glory to God because of the strength he gave him to preach the good news. He equally, throws more light on the fact that Jesus is the Mystery that has been kept hidden for ages. His revelation is the salvation of the world. This good news is the mystery which God himself concealed in the old covenant.

As we continue our preparation for Christmas, we must continue to give all glory to God for what he is about to do in our lives and in our world. Hence, Paul’s message today sets us on the track towards the incarnation of God’s word which is very close at hand.

The Gospel of today presents us with two important figures in the “drama of the nativity of Christ.” First the angel Gabriel, the faithful messenger appears with a message. His message is about the fulfillment of a promise. It is also, about the revelation of the hidden mystery of the old covenant in the new. Jesus Christ is that mystery!

Mary’s role in the history of salvation stands out clearly today. She receives the message with humility: “I am the handmaid of the Lord, let it is done unto me according to your words.” With these humble words, she accepted her role in the history of salvation. Mary’s faith was a statement of her total self-donation to God’s own will for our salvation.

Her response was a statement of her humility, generosity, courage, and love for humanity. Hence through here generosity, Mary reminds us that this is a season of joy, receiving and sharing. Today, as the angel brought the good news to Mary so also, we must continue spreading this message.

Finally, as we wait for the next couple of hours for the manifestation of the new covenant and the fulfillment of God’s promise to his servant David, let us join the psalmist in proclaiming: “I will sing forever of your love, O lord.  In all the ages, my mouth will proclaim your truth!”

Peace be with You!

Maranatha!

El Misterio En María, La Arca De La Nueva Alianza

Lecturas: 1^ra: 1Sam 7, 1-5. 8-16: Sal 88, 2-5. 27. 29; 2^da: Ro 16, 25-27: Ev: Lc 1, 26-38

Esta breve reflexión fue escrita por el Reverendo Padre Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. Él es un sacerdote católico y un miembro de la Congregación de los Padres y Hermanos del Espíritu Santo (Espirítanos). Él está trabajando con el Grupo Internacional Espirítano De Puerto Rico y República Dominicana. Él es el administrador de la Parroquia La Resurrección del Señor, Canóvanas y el Canciller de la Diócesis de Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. Para más detalles y comentarios se puede contactarlo en: canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, cancilleriadfh@gmail.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com

Hoy es el cuarto y último domingo de Adviento. La celebración de hoy es un gran cantico para el eterno amor de Dios revelado en su alianza con su siervo David. El misterio de la antigua alianza pronto será revelado en María, la arca de la nueva alianza de Dios.

En nuestra primera lectura, en agradecimiento al amor de Dios, David quiso construir una casa para Dios. Sin embargo, Dios no lo permitiría. En cambio, Dios le hizo una promesa a David, y la selló con una alianza: “… Preservaré a la descendencia de tu cuerpo después de ti… Seré un padre para él, y él será un hijo para mí… tu trono será establecido para siempre.” Esta promesa y alianza es lo que esperamos que se cumpla pronto.

Se basa en esta misma promesa que tanto Lucas como Mateo procedieron a trazar y escribieron la genealogía de Jesucristo (Mt 1:1-17; Lc 3:23-38). La razón era demostrar que Jesús es realmente del linaje de David, y el que los profetas hablaron. El misterio oculto de la antigua alianza está a punto de ser revelado en la nueva alianza. 

A medida que continuemos con nuestra preparación para la Navidad, debemos seguir dando toda la gloria a Dios por lo que él está a punto de hacer en nuestras vidas y en nuestro mundo. Por lo tanto, el mensaje de Pablo hoy nos pone en la pista hacia la encarnación de la palabra de Dios que está muy cerca.

El Evangelio de hoy nos presenta dos figuras importantes en el “drama de la natividad de Cristo”. Primero el ángel Gabriel, el mensajero fiel aparece con un mensaje. Su mensaje es sobre el cumplimiento de una promesa. Es también, sobre la revelación del misterio oculto en la antigua alianza en la nueva. ¡Jesucristo es ese misterio!

El papel de María en la historia de la salvación se destaca claramente hoy. Ella recibe el mensaje con humildad: “Yo soy la esclava del Señor, hágase conmigo según tu voluntad.” Con estas humildes palabras, María aceptó su papel en la historia de la salvación. La fe de María fue una declaración de su total auto-donación a la voluntad de Dios para nuestra salvación.

Su respuesta fue una declaración de su humildad, generosidad, coraje y amor por la humanidad. Por lo tanto, la generosidad de María nos recuerda que esta es una temporada de gozo, de recibir y de compartir. Hoy, como el ángel trajo la buena nueva a María, así también, debemos continuar difundiendo este mensaje.

Finalmente, mientras que esperamos las próximas dos horas para la manifestación de la nueva alianza y el cumplimiento de la promesa de Dios a su siervo David y a nosotros, nos unimos al salmista para proclamar: “Cantaré eternamente el amor del Señor. ¡Anunciare su fidelidad por todas las edades!

¡La paz sea con ustedes! 

¡Maranatha!

Rejoice, Rejoice All You Who Are Faithful!

Readings: (1st: Is 61, 1-2.10-11: Ps: Lk 1, 46-54; 2nd: 2 Th 5, 16-22: Gos: Jh 1, 6-8. 19-28)

This brief reflection was written by Rev. Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a Member of the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers and Brothers (Spiritans). He is currently working with the Spiritan International Group of Puerto Rico &  Dominican Republic. He is the Administrator of Parroquia La Resurrección del Senor, Canovanas and the Chancellor of the Diocesis of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. For more details and comments contact him on:  canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

The third Sunday of Advent is a Sunday of joy (Gaudete). Having come thus far in our journey, the Church says to us as the prophet Nehemiah said to the Israelites: “Go and enjoy…Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength” (Neh 8, 10). However, after today, we must continue our journey with a new zeal and expectation.

In our first reading today, Isaiah busts out in Joy as he experienced the divine presence and hand of God tremendously at work in his life and mission: “The Spirit of the Lord has been given to me, for the Lord has anointed me to…” This is a song of joy and satisfaction of an empowered person. He recounts what God has done in his life.

This too should be our song today because, we have been filled with the Spirit of God. We are filled in order to be strengthened for the last phase of our journey this Advent. So, in appreciation for this, we shout for joy to the Lord. This is the great joy that Gaudate Sunday provokes. That is, the joy that our Saviour is near.

Our second reading is an explicit exaltation from Paul to us especially on this great and joy-filled Sunday of Advent: “Be happy at all times, pray constantly, and for all things give thanks to God…” In this brief exaltation, we find a wonderful progression. First, it is an exaltation to be happy, joyful and cheerful because our journey so far has been so good.

Second, it is an exaltation to “Pray constantly,” to be vigilant. Therefore, for Gaudate Sunday to be truly meaningful, it must provoke a great feeling of joy and thankfulness, while still strongly preserving, and keeping us focused on our journey and duty this glorious season of Advent. It is not the end our journey.

Once again, today our gospel revolves round the prophecy and clarion call of the “Prophet of Prophets,” John the Baptist. The major difference between today’s gospel and that of last week rests simply on the fact that they are accounts from different writers Mark and John. The message remains functionally and ontologically the same. It is still from: “The voice that cries in the wilderness, make a straight way for the Lord.” 

Why is this reading and call being repeated this joyful Sunday? It is for the purpose of emphasis. It is to remind us that, though we are given a little time to relax and rejoice today, that the clarion call is still there: “Make a straight way for the Lord.” In order words, our preparation continues. So, it is a way of keeping us alert so that we do not lose focus of where we are actually going to: “It is NOT Christmas yet!” The joy of this Sunday foreshadows the fullness of joy that Christmas brings.

Finally, brethren, as we rejoice today, let us say a loud amen to the prayer of Paul: “May the God of Peace make you perfect and holy, and may you all be kept safe and blameless…for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ…God has called you and he will not fail you.” Surely, He will not fail us until we have received Christ, the fullness of our joy and salvation.  Surely, he will not fail us because: “All His promises are yes, and amen (2 Cor 1, 20).

Peace be with You!

Maranatha!!

Why Is Jesus Christ Coming?
Readings: (1st: Is 40, 1-5.9-11: Ps 84, 9-14; 2nd: 2 Pt 3, 8-14; Gos: Mk 1, 1-8)

This brief reflection was written by Rev. Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a Member of the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers and Brothers (Spiritans). He is currently working with the Spiritan International Group of Puerto Rico &  Dominican Republic. He is the Administrator of Parroquia La Resurrección del Senor, Canovanas and the Chancellor of the Diocesis of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. For more details and comments contact him on:  canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com.

On this second week of Advent, we continue to prepare for the Lord’s coming. Today, the church calls us to reflect on the good news of this season. Thus, we are to reflect on the reason of Christ’s coming, and on what we are expected to do this season.
Today, our readings focus on the nearness of the Lord’s coming and the need for repentance for the forgiveness of sins. So, one very important question today is, why is Christ coming? He is coming because he loves us. He is coming to save us. He is coming to make all things new. He has a mission, and that mission is for us, and for our salvation.
In our first reading, Isaiah implores us to: “prepare a way for the Lord… Here is the Lord, coming with power…” Today he sounds very optimistic. Last week, he made a petition, asking God to “tear down the heaven and come down.” His prayer of hope is already bearing fruits soon. So, God says this week, “console my people, console them…”
Like Isaiah, we too must progress in our journey this Advent. Isaiah’s prophecy today is a great hope booster. That is, that our salvation is close at hand. So, let us continue to wait for the Lord’s coming. However, it is not yet over. The fulfillment of this hope still lies ahead. So, rather than relax, we must heed his call, “prepare a way for the Lord…”
In the second reading, Peter assures us that Christ will certainly come. Once again, like the Prophet Isaiah, he gives a boost to our hope. He encourages us not to lose hope in the prophetic promises of the coming of the Messiah. Today, Peter makes the following very important points. The first is about the “The Day of the Lord.” He reminds us that it will come like a thief. Therefore, this is a season to be alert and vigilant.
Second, Peter reminds us that our “long time” is nothing, compared to God’s time. Hence, there is a difference between God’s time and ours. Our human time is “Chronos.” That is, the sequential time. While God’s reckoning of time is “Kairos” That is, a special moment that seems almost timeless or ageless. Hence, we say: “God’s time is the best time!”
In today’s gospel, like Isaiah, John the Baptist brings us the good news about the Lord’s imminent coming. He makes two explicit calls to us. The first is, a call to repent for the forgiveness of our sins. Advent is the time to reconcile with God whom we have severally offended through our words and actions.
Repentance and reconciliation are very important conditions for us to welcome Christ worthily. This is what the prophets (Isaiah and John the Baptist), and the Apostle Peter mean by, “preparing a way for the Lord” and “living holy and saintly lives.” If we repent sincerely this season, then the salvation that Jesus brings will be ours. If we clean up ourselves properly, we need not be afraid of the Day of the Lord.
Finally, anticipation of the Lord’s coming should not merely determine our manner of lives. Rather, it should motivate us to repentance, holiness of life, godliness, and of course, joyfulness. Therefore, as we continue to wait and prepare, let us humbly pray with the psalmist: “O Lord, let us see your mercy, and give us your saving help.”
Peace be with You!
Maranatha!