Today's readings:

1. First reading: Corinthians 6, 1 to 11
2. Gospel: Luke 6, 12 to 19

Today's readings encourage us to reflect on our conduct within the Christian community and the importance of prayerful discernment. In the First Reading, Paul criticizes the Corinthians for taking their disputes to secular courts rather than resolving them within the Christian community. He emphasizes that as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard of justice and reconciliation. Paul’s words remind us that our actions should reflect the sanctity of our baptism and our commitment to living as members of the body of Christ.

In the Gospel, we see Jesus spending the night in prayer before choosing the Twelve Apostles. This highlights the importance of prayer in making significant decisions and discerning God’s will. Jesus’ example shows us the necessity of grounding our actions and choices in prayer, seeking God’s guidance in all that we do. After selecting the Apostles, Jesus continues His ministry of healing and teaching, demonstrating the power and compassion of God’s love.

As we meditate on these readings, we are encouraged to pursue reconciliation and unity within our communities, to resolve conflicts with love and understanding, and to prioritize prayer in our decision-making processes. This approach not only strengthens our relationship with God but also fosters a spirit of peace and justice in our interactions with others.

Today's readings:

1. First reading: Corinthians 5, 1 to 8
2. Gospel: Luke 6, 6 to 11

Saint Peter Claver (1580-1654) was a Spanish Jesuit priest who dedicated his life to the service of enslaved Africans in Cartagena, Colombia. He baptized and cared for over 300,000 slaves during his ministry, advocating for their humane treatment and proclaiming the dignity of every human being. He is remembered for his deep compassion and unwavering commitment to social justice.

The readings today call us to reflect on the nature of true righteousness and the importance of compassion over rigid adherence to the law. In the First Reading, Paul addresses the community at Corinth, confronting them about the immorality in their midst and urging them to cleanse themselves of malice and wickedness. This passage highlights the necessity of upholding moral integrity and the call to live in sincerity and truth.

In the Gospel, Jesus challenges the Pharisees' interpretation of the Sabbath law by healing a man with a withered hand. His actions reveal that the law should not be used to prevent acts of mercy and goodness. Jesus emphasizes that doing good and saving life are always lawful, even on the Sabbath.

As we commemorate Saint Peter Claver, we see in him an embodiment of these principles. His life was a testament to the power of love and mercy, as he ministered to those who were dehumanized and marginalized. Claver’s dedication to serving others, particularly the most vulnerable, challenges us to prioritize compassion and justice in our own lives, just as Jesus did.

Today's readings:

1. First reading: Micah 5, 1 to 4a
2. Second reading: Romans 8, 28 to 30
3. Gospel: Matthew 1, 1 to 16 and 18 to 23

On this special feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we celebrate the birth of the one who would become the Mother of God. The readings reflect on God’s providence and the unfolding of His plan of salvation through humble and unexpected means. The First Reading from Micah foretells the birth of a ruler from Bethlehem, a small and seemingly insignificant town, highlighting that God’s greatness often emerges from humble beginnings.

The Second Reading from Romans reminds us that God works all things for good for those who love Him, emphasizing the divine purpose in our lives, as seen in the life of Mary, who was chosen and predestined for a unique role in salvation history.

The Gospel provides the genealogy of Jesus, tracing His lineage through Mary and Joseph, underscoring the human and divine lineage of Christ. It also recounts the miraculous conception of Jesus, with the angel’s message to Joseph affirming the divine plan at work through Mary.

As we reflect on Mary’s birth, we are invited to consider the profound impact of her "yes" to God. Her life was marked by humility, faith, and obedience, making her the perfect vessel through which God would enter the world. This feast encourages us to trust in God’s plan for our lives, even when it unfolds in ways we may not expect, and to emulate Mary’s openness to God’s will.