Some sport followers are expert at reading a game.  They can spot where a successful move begins, where an opposition's weakness is exploited, where a subtle touch of skill can turn a game.  Others tend to focus on the spectacular score, on flamboyant skill, even if it is unproductive, on the glaring mistakes and the glorious successes.

The crowds that followed Jesus seemed to have divided into two similar groups.  In today’s gospel, there were those who focused on the extraordinary cure of the possessed man.  But the wiser, more reflective people honed in on the teaching of Jesus.  For them, the emphasis was on Jesus as teacher rather than as miracle worker.  He was both, of course, but it was his teaching that made the more lasting impression.  Why?  Because he was teaching with the authority of one who knows the truth, the truth about God, about people and about the world.

The people of that time were confused about the political, economic and religious situations of their time.  They were oppressed, broken and spiritually barren.  The similarities between now and then are obvious.  Some of the contemporaries of Jesus heeded his teaching and allowed it to change their lifestyles.  So Christianity took root.  Today’s gospel is a call to our generation to do the same so that Christianity in our home, parish and country may be revitalised.

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Sunday Missal: 461 †   New Edition: 592 †   Roman Missal: Page 209

Psalm Response

O that today you would listen to his voice!  Harden not your hearts.

 LENT AND HOLY WEEK LITURGY

We had a preliminary meeting on Wednesday 18 January to review our Christmas services.  By and large, they were well attended and well organised and a big thank you to all involved.  However, I am conscious that the organisation of our services is left to a very small group of people and this is not ideal because there must be so many people out there with lots of talent, ideas and enthusiasm.  We work best when lots of people are involved.

We have a second meeting on Thursday 26 January at 8.00 pm in the Presbytery.  This is an open meeting to plan for Lent and Holy Week.  It would be lovely to see some new faces bringing their talents and enthusiasm and ideas so that we can worthily celebrate the great liturgies for Holy Week.

I wonder if perhaps some people are put off by the word Liturgy.  Please don’t be—we need your help in planning our services and I know there are many of you out there with great ideas—come and share them with us.

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Sunday Missal: 458 †   New Edition: 588 †   Roman Missal: Page 198

Psalm Response

Lord, make me know your ways.

Lord Jesus,

You were sent by the Father to gather together those who are scattered.  You came among us, doing good and bringing healing, announcing the Word of salvation and giving the Bread which lasts for ever.  Be our companion on life’s pilgrim way.

May your Holy Spirit inflame our hearts, enliven our hope and open our minds, so that together with our sisters and brothers in faith we may recognise you in the Scriptures and in the breaking of bread.

May your Holy Spirit transform us into one body and lead us to walk humbly on the earth, in justice and love, as witnesses of your resurrection.

In communion with Mary, whom you gave to us as our Mother at the foot of the cross, through you may all praise, honour and blessing be to the Father in the Holy Spirit and in the Church, now and forever. Amen.

International Eucharistic Congress Prayer

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Sunday Missal: 455 †   New Edition: 584 †   Roman Missal: Page 188

Psalm Response

Here I am, Lord!  I come to do your will

The first Christmas was an almost hidden event.  God became human but nobody knew except Mary and Joseph and a few shepherds.  Even they did not realise the full meaning of what had happened.  Then the wise men came from the East to acknowledge that this infant was a special one sent by God.  The coming of the Magi was to show that God took on human nature, not just for the chosen people but to save all people.  The enterprising trio followed God’s inspiration, found Christ and brought the good news back to their own people.  They were not distracted from that task, even by Herod’s invitation to return and enjoy his royal hospitality.

As we move into the New Year, people everywhere will need to hear and heed the fact that God has visited his people and lived in our world.  On the feast of the Epiphany, we ask for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon us, so that, like the Magi, we will follow God’s call and, finding Jesus ourselves, we will not be distracted from bringing him to our own people and others during the coming year.

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Sunday Missal: 116 †   New Edition: 154 †   Roman Missal: Page 165

Psalm Response

All nations shall fall prostrate before you, O Lord.