FEBRUARY 2, 2017

Reading 1 MAL 3:1-4

Thus says the Lord God: Lo, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me; And suddenly there will come to the temple the LORD whom you seek, And the messenger of the covenant whom you desire. Yes, he is coming, says the LORD of hosts. But who will endure the day of his coming? And who can stand when he appears? For he is like the refiner's fire, or like the fuller's lye. He will sit refining and purifying silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi, Refining them like gold or like silver that they may offer due sacrifice to the LORD. Then the sacrifice of Judah and Jerusalem will please the LORD, as in the days of old, as in years gone by.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 24:7, 8, 9, 10

R. Who is this king of glory? It is the Lord!

 

Lift up, O gates, your lintels; reach up, you ancient portals, that the king of glory may come in!

R. Who is this king of glory? It is the Lord!

 

Who is this king of glory? The LORD, strong and mighty, the LORD, mighty in battle.

R. Who is this king of glory? It is the Lord!

 

Lift up, O gates, your lintels; reach up, you ancient portals, that the king of glory may come in!

R. Who is this king of glory? It is the Lord!

 

Who is this king of glory? The LORD of hosts; he is the king of glory.

R. Who is this king of glory? It is the Lord!

 

Reading 2 HEB 2:14-18

Since the children share in blood and flesh, Jesus likewise shared in them, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the Devil, and free those who through fear of death had been subject to slavery all their life. Surely he did not help angels but rather the descendants of Abraham; therefore, he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every way, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest before God to expiate the sins of the people. Because he himself was tested through what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.

 

Alleluia LK 2:32

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

A light of revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel LK 2:22-40

When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, Mary and Joseph took Jesus up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, just as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that opens the womb shall be consecrated to the Lord, and to offer the sacrifice of a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, in accordance with the dictate in the law of the Lord.

 

Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. He came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform the custom of the law in regard to him, he took him into his arms and blessed God, saying:

 

"Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in the sight of all the peoples: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel."

 

The child's father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, "Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted Band you yourself a sword will pierceB so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed." There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived seven years with her husband after her marriage, and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day with fasting and prayer. And coming forward at that very time, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were awaiting the redemption of Jerusalem.

 

When they had fulfilled all the prescriptions of the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Malakias 3, 1-4

Ito ang sinabi ng Panginoong Diyos, “Ipadadala ko ang aking sugo upang ihanda ang daraanan ko. At ang Panginoon na inyong hinahanap ay biglang darating sa kanyang templo. Darating ang pinakahihintay ninyong sugo at ipapahayag ang aking tipan.”

 

Ngunit sino ang makatatagal pagdating ng araw na iyon? Sino ang makakaharap pag siya’y napakita na? Siya’y parang apoy na nagpapadalisay sa bakal at parang matapang na sabon. Darating siya para humatol at dadalisayin niya ang mga saserdote, tulad ng pagdalisay sa pilak at ginto. Sa gayun, magiging karapat-dapat silang maghandog sa Panginoon, at ang mga handog na dadalhin ng mga taga-Juda at Jerusalem ay magiging kalugud-lugod sa kanya, tulad ng dati.

 

Salmong Tugunan Salmo 23, 7. 8. 9. 10.

Tugon: D’yos na makapangyariha’y dakilang hari kailanman.

 

Ang pintuang luma ay buksan nang lubos,  ang dakilang hari ay doon papasok.

Tugon: D’yos na makapangyariha’y dakilang hari kailanman.

 

Ang dakilang haring ito ay sino ba?  Siya ang Poon, dakilang talaga;  Saanmang labanan tagumpay ay kanya.

Tugon: D’yos na makapangyariha’y dakilang hari kailanman.

 

Ang pintuang luma ay buksan nang lubos,  ang dakilang hari ay doon papasok.

Tugon: D’yos na makapangyariha’y dakilang hari kailanman.

 

Ang dakilang hari’y sino bang talaga?  Makapangyarihang Diyos at hari siya!

Tugon: D’yos na makapangyariha’y dakilang hari kailanman.

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa Hebreo 2, 14-18

Yamang ang mga anak na tinuturing ng Diyos ay tao, naging tao rin si Hesus, tulad nila – may laman at dugo. Ginawa niya ito upang sa pamamagitan ng kanyang kamatayang ay maigupo niya ang diyablo na siyang may kapangyarihan sa kamatayan. Sa gayun, pinalaya niya ang lahat ng naging alipin habang panahon dahil sa kanilang takot sa kamatayan. Hindi ang mga anghel ang kanyang tinutulungan kundi “Ang lahi ni Abraham.” Kaya’t kinailangang matulad siya sa kanyang mga kapatid sa lahat ng paraan. Sa gayun, siya’y naging isang dakilang saserdote, mahabagin at tapat, naglilingkod sa Diyos at naghahandog ng hain sa ikapagpapatawad ng mga kasalanan ng tao. Sapagkat siya ma’y tinukso at nagbara, kaya ngayo’y matutulungan niya ang mga tinutukso.

 

Aleluya Lucas 2, 32

Aleluya! Aleluya!

Para sa lahat ng bansa  liwanag na nagmumula  sa bayan mong dinakila!

Aleluya! Aleluya!

 

Mabuting Balita Lucas 2, 22-40

Noong dumating ang araw ng paglilinis sa kanila, ayon sa kautusan ni Moises, ang mga magulang ni Hesus ay pumunta sa Jerusalem. Dala nila ang sanggol upang iharap sa Panginoon, sapagkat ayon sa Kautusan, “Ang bawat panganay na lalaki ay nakatalaga sa Panginoon.” At naghandog sila, ayon sa hinihingi ng Kautusan ng Panginoon: “Mag-asawang batu-bato o dalawang inakay na kalapati.”

 

May isang tao noon sa Jerusalem, ang pangala’y Simeon. Matapat at malapit sa Diyos ang lalaking ito at naghihintay sa katubusan ng Israel. Sumasakanya ang Espiritu Santo na nagpahayag sa kanya na hindi siya mamamatay hangga’t hindi niya nakikita ang Mesias na ipinangako ng Panginoon. Sa patnubay ng Espiritu, pumasok siya sa templo. At nang dalhin doon ng kanyang mga magulang ang sanggol na si Hesus upang gawin ang hinihingi ng Kautusan, siya’y kinalong ni Simeon. Ito’y nagpuri sa Diyos, na ang wika,

 

“Kunin mo na, Panginoon, ang iyong abang alipin,  ayon sa iyong pangako,  yamang nakita na ng aking mga mata ang iyong pagliligtas,  na inihanda mo para sa lahat ng bansa:  Liwanag itong tatanglaw sa mga Hentil,  at magbibigay-karangalan sa iyong bayang Israel.”

 

Namangha ang ama’t ina ng sanggol dahil sa sinabi ni Simeon tungkol sa kanya. Binasbasan sila ni Simeon, at sinabi kay Maria, “Tandaan mo, ang batang ito’y nakatalaga sa ikapapahamak o ikaliligtas ng marami sa Israel, isang tanda mula Diyos ngunit hahamakin ng marami kaya’t mahahayag ang kanilang iniisip. Dahil diyan, ang puso mo’y para na ring tinarakan ng isang balaraw.”

 

Naroon din sa templo ang isang propetang babae na ang pangala’y Ana, anak ni Fanuel na mula sa lipi ni Aser. Siya’y napakatanda na. Pitong taon lamang silang nagsama ng kanyang asawa, nang siya’y mabalo. At ngayon, walumpu’t apat na taon na siya. Lagi siya sa templo at araw-gabi’y sumasamba sa Diyos pamamagitan ng pag-aayuno at pananalangin. Lumapit siya nang oras ding iyon at nagpasalamat sa Diyos. Nagsalita rin siya tungkol kay Hesus sa lahat ng naghihintay sa pagpapalaya ng Diyos sa Jerusalem.

 

Nang maisagawa nila ang lahat ng bagay ayon sa Kautusan, bumalik na sila sa kanilang bayan, sa Nazaret, Galilea. Ang bata’y lumaking malakas, marunong at kalugod-lugod sa paningin ng Diyos.

 

 

FEBRUARY 3, 2017

 

Reading 1 HEB13:1-8

Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect hospitality, for through it some have unknowingly entertained angels. Be mindful of prisoners as if sharing their imprisonment, and of the ill-treated as of yourselves, for you also are in the body. Let marriage be honored among all and the marriage bed be kept undefiled, for God will judge the immoral and adulterers. Let your life be free from love of money but be content with what you have, for he has said, I will never forsake you or abandon you. Thus we may say with confidence:

 

The Lord is my helper, and I will not be afraid. What can anyone do to me?

 

Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 27:1, 3, 5, 8B-9ABC

R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.

 

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The LORD is my life's refuge; of whom should I be afraid?

R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.

 

Though an army encamp against me, my heart will not fear; Though war be waged upon me, even then will I trust.

R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.

 

For he will hide me in his abode in the day of trouble; He will conceal me in the shelter of his tent, he will set me high upon a rock.

R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.

 

Your presence, O LORD, I seek. Hide not your face from me; do not in anger repel your servant. You are my helper: cast me not off.

R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.

 

Alleluia LK 8:15

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Blessed are they who have kept the word with a generous heart, and yield a harvest through perseverance.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 6:14-29

King Herod heard about Jesus, for his fame had become widespread, and people were saying, "John the Baptist has been raised from the dead; That is why mighty powers are at work in him." Others were saying, "He is Elijah"; still others, "He is a prophet like any of the prophets." But when Herod learned of it, he said, "It is John whom I beheaded. He has been raised up." Herod was the one who had John arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, whom he had married. John had said to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife." Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so. Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man, and kept him in custody. When he heard him speak he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him. Herodias had an opportunity one day when Herod, on his birthday, gave a banquet for his courtiers, his military officers, and the leading men of Galilee. His own daughter came in and performed a dance that delighted Herod and his guests. The king said to the girl, "Ask of me whatever you wish and I will grant it to you." He even swore many things to her, "I will grant you whatever you ask of me, even to half of my kingdom." She went out and said to her mother, "What shall I ask for?" Her mother replied, "The head of John the Baptist." The girl hurried back to the king's presence and made her request, "I want you to give me at once on a platter the head of John the Baptist." The king was deeply distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests he did not wish to break his word to her. So he promptly dispatched an executioner with orders to bring back his head. He went off and beheaded him in the prison. He brought in the head on a platter and gave it to the girl. The girl in turn gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Hebreo 13, 1-8

Mga kapatid, magpatuloy kayong nag-iibigan bilang magkakapatid kay Kristo. Huwag ninyong kaligtaan ang pagpapatuloy sa mga taga-ibang bayan. May ilang gumawa nito, at nakapagpatuloy sila ng mga anghel nang di nila nalalaman. Damayan ninyo ang mga nabibilanggo, na parang kayo’y nakabilanggo ring kasama nila. Gayun din ang mga pinagmamalupitan, sapagkat maaaring kayo ma’y dumanas din ng gayun.

 

Dapat igalang ng lahat ang pag-aasawa, at maging tapat sa isa’t isa ang mag-asawa. Sapagkat hahatulan ng Diyos ang mga nakikiapid at mga nangangalunya.

 

Huwag kayong magmukhang salapi; masiyahan na kayo sa anumang nasa inyo. Sapagkat sinabi ng Diyos, “Hindi kita iiwan ni pababayaan man.” Walang pag-agam-agam na masasabi natin,

 

“Ang Panginoon ang tumutulong sa akin,  Hindi ako matatakot,  Ano ang magagawa sa akin ng tao?”

 

Alalahanin ninyo ang mga nangasiwa sa inyo, na nagpahayag sa inyo ng salita ng Diyos. Isipin nga ninyo kung paano sila namuhay at namatay, at tularan ninyo ang kanilang pananalig sa Diyos. Si Hesukristo noong nakaraan ay siya rin sa kasalukuyan at siya rin magpakailanman.

 

Salmong Tugunan Salmo 26, 1. 3. 5. 8b-9abk

Tugon: Panginoo’y aking tanglaw, siya’y aking kaligtasan.

 

Tanglaw ko’y ang Poon, aking kaligtasan,  kaya walang takot ako kaninuman;  sa mga panganib kanyang iingatan,  kaya naman ako’y walang agam-agam.

Tugon: Panginoo’y aking tanglaw, siya’y aking kaligtasan.

 

Kahit salakayin ako ng kaaway,  magtitiwala rin ako sa Maykapal.

Tugon: Panginoo’y aking tanglaw, siya’y aking kaligtasan.

 

Iingatan ako kapag may bagabag,  sa banal na templo’y iingatang ligtas;  itataas niya sa batong matataf.

Tugon: Panginoo’y aking tanglaw, siya’y aking kaligtasan.

 

Ang paanyaya mo’y, “Lumapit sa akin,”  Huwag kang magkukubli’t kita’y hahanapin!  H’wag kang magagalit, huwag mong itatakwil akong katulong mo at iyong alipin.

Tugon: Panginoo’y aking tanglaw, siya’y aking kaligtasan.

 

Aleluya Lucas 8, 15

Aleluya! Aleluya!

Ang Salitang mula sa Diyos  kapag isinasaloob  ay mamumunga nang lubos.

Aleluya! Aleluya!

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 6, 14-29

Ang Mabuting Balita ng Panginoon ayon kay San Marcos

 

Noong panahong iyon, nakarating kay Haring Herodes ang balita tungkol kay Hesus, sapagkat bantog na bantog na ang pangalan nito. May nagsabi, “Siya’y si Juan Bautista na muling binuhay, kaya nakagagawa siya ng mga himala.” May nagsasabi naman, “Siya’y si Elias.” “Siya’y propeta, katulad ng mga propeta noong una,” anang iba pa.

 

Sinabi naman ni Herodes nang mabalitaan niya ito, “Muling nabuhay si Juan na pinapugutan ko.” Si Herodes ang nagpahuli, nagpagapos at nagpabilanggo kay Juan dahil kay Herodias. Ang babaing ito’y asawa ni Felipe na kapatid ni Herodes ngunit kinakasama niya. Laging sinasabi sa kanya ni Juan, “Hindi matuwid na kunin ninyo ang asawa ng inyong kapatid.” Kaya’t si Herodias ay nagkimkim ng galit kay Juan. Hinangad niyang ipapatay ito, ngunit hindi niya magawa, sapagkat natatakot si Herodes kay Juan. Alam niyang ito’y taong matuwid at banal, kaya’t ipinagsasanggalang niya. Gustung-gusto niyang makinig kay Juan, bagamat labis siyang nababagabag sa mga sinasabi nito.

 

Sa wakas ay nagkaroon ng pagkakataon si Herodias nang anyayahan ni Herodes sa kanyang kaarawan ang kanyang mga kagawad, mga pinuno ng hukbo, at ang mga pangunahing mamamayan ng Galilea. Pumasok ang anak na babae ni Herodes at nagsayaw. Labis na nasiyahan si Herodias at ang mga panauhin, kaya’t sinabi ng hari sa dalaga, “Hingin mo sa akin ang anumang ibig mo at ibibigay ko sa iyo.” At naisumpa pa niyang ibibigay kahit ang kalahati ng kanyang kaharian kung ito ang hihilingin. Lumabas ang dalaga at tinanong ang kanyang ina, “Ano ang hihilingin ko?” “Ang ulo ni Juan Bautista,” sagot ng ina. Dali-daling nagbalik ang dalaga sa kinaroroonan ng hari. “Ang ibig ko po’y ibigay ninyo sa akin ngayon din, sa isang pinggan, ang ulo ni Juan Bautista,” sabi niya. Labis na nalungkot ang hari, ngunit dahil sa kanyang sumpa na narinig ng kanyang mga panauhin, hindi niya matanggihan ang dalaga. Kaagad niyang iniutos sa isang bantay na dalhin sa kanya ang ulo ni Juan. Sumunod ang bantay at pinugutan si Juan sa bilangguan, inilagay ang ulo sa isang pinggan, at ibinigay sa dalaga. Ibinigay naman iyon ng dalaga sa kanyang ina. Nang mabalitaan ito ng mga alagad ni Juan, kinuha nila ang kanyang bangkay at inilibing.

 

 

FEBRUARY 4, 2017

 

Reading 1 HEB 13:15-17, 20-21

Brothers and sisters: Through Jesus, let us continually offer God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of lips that confess his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have; God is pleased by sacrifices of that kind.

 

Obey your leaders and defer to them, for they keep watch over you and will have to give an account, that they may fulfill their task with joy and not with sorrow, for that would be of no advantage to you.

 

May the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great shepherd of the sheep by the Blood of the eternal covenant, furnish you with all that is good, that you may do his will. May he carry out in you what is pleasing to him through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 23:1-3A, 3B-4, 5, 6

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. In verdant pastures he gives me repose. Beside restful waters he leads me; he refreshes my soul.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

He guides me in right paths for his name's sake. Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side With your rod and your staff that give me courage.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

You spread the table before me in the sight of my foes; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

Only goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life; And I shall dwell in the house of the LORD for years to come.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

Alleluia JN 10:27

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 6:30-34

The Apostles gathered together with Jesus and reported all they had done and taught. He said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while." People were coming and going in great numbers, and they had no opportunity even to eat. So they went off in the boat by themselves to a deserted place. People saw them leaving and many came to know about it. They hastened there on foot from all the towns and arrived at the place before them.

 

When Jesus disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Hebreo 13, 15-17. 20-21

Mga kapatid, lagi tayong maghandog ng hain ng pagpupuri sa Diyos sa pamamagitan ni Hesus – pagpupuring nagpapahayag ng ating pagkilala sa kanyang pangalan. At huwag nating kaligtaan ang paggawa ng mabuti at ang pagtulong sa iba sapagkat iyan ang haing kinalulugdan ng Diyos.

 

Pasakop kayo sa mga nangangasiwa sa inyo. Sila’y may pananagutang magbantay sa inyo, at magbibigay-sulit sila sa Diyos ukol dito. Kung sila’y susundin ninyo, magagalak sila sa pagtupad ng kanilang tungkulin. Kung hindi, sila’y mahahapis, at hindi ito makabubuti sa inyo.

 

Ang Diyos na pinagmumulan ng kapayapaan ang siyang muling bumuhay sa ating Panginoong Hesus na naging Dakilang pastol ng mga tupa dahil sa kanyang dugo na nagpatibay sa walang hanggang tipan. Nawa’y ipagkaloob niya sa inyo ang lahat ng kailangan ninyo upang maisagawa ang kanyang kalooban, at sa pamamagitan ni Hesukristo ay gawin niya sa atin ang nakalulugod sa kanya. Papurihan nawa si Kristo magpakailanman! Amen.

 

Salmong Tugunan Salmo 22, 1-3a. 3b-4. 5. 6

Tugon: Pastol ko’y Panginoong D’yos, hindi ako magdarahop.

 

Panginoo’y aking Pastol, hindi ako magkukulang.  Ako’y pinahihimlay sa mainam na pastulan,  at inaakay niya ako sa tahimik na batisan,  binibigyan niya ako niyong bagong kalakasan.

Tugon: Pastol ko’y Panginoong D’yos, hindi ako magdarahop.

 

At sang-ayon sa pangako na kaniyang binitiwan  sa matuwid na landasi’y doon ako inaakay.  Kahit na ang daang iyo’y tumatahak sa karimlan,  hindi ako matatakot pagkat ika’y kaagapay;  ang tungkod mo at pamalo ang gabay ko at sanggalang.

Tugon: Pastol ko’y Panginoong D’yos, hindi ako magdarahop.

 

Sa harapan ng lingkod mo, ikaw ay may handang dulang,  ito’y iyong ginagawang nakikita ng kaaway;  nalulugod ka sa akin na ulo ko ay langisan  at pati na ang kalis ko ay iyong pinaaapaw.

Tugon: Pastol ko’y Panginoong D’yos, hindi ako magdarahop.

 

Tunay na ang pag-ibig mo at ang iyong kabutihan,  sasaaki’t tataglayin habang ako’y nabubuhay;  doon ako sa templo mo lalagi at mananahan.

Tugon: Pastol ko’y Panginoong D’yos, hindi ako magdarahop.

 

Aleluya Juan 10, 27

Aleluya! Aleluya!

Ang tinig ko’y pakikinggan ng kabilang sa ‘king kawan, ako’y kanilang susundan.

Aleluya! Aleluya!

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 6, 30-34

Noong panahong iyon, bumalik kay Hesus ang mga apostol at iniulat ang lahat ng kanilang naisagawa at naituro. Napakaraming taong dumarating at umaalis, anupat hindi na makuhang kumain ni Hesus at ng kanyang mga alagad. Kaya’t sinabi niya sa mga ito, “Magtungo tayo sa isang ilang na pook upang malayo sa karamihan at makapagpahinga kayo nang kaunti.” Umalis silang lulan ng bangka, at nagpunta nga sa isang ilang na dako.

 

Ngunit maraming nakakita sa kanilang pag-alis at nakilala sila. Kaya’t mula sa lahat ng bayan, ang mga tao’y patakbong tumungo sa dakong pupuntahan nin Hesus at nauna pang dumating doon kaysa kanila. Paglunsad ni Hesus, nakita niya ang napakaraming tao; nahabag siya sa kanila sapagkat para silang mga tupang walang pastol. At sila’y tinuruan niya ng maraming bagay.

 

 

FEBRUARY 5, 2017

 

Reading 1 IS 58:7-10

Thus says the LORD: Share your bread with the hungry, shelter the oppressed and the homeless; clothe the naked when you see them, and do not turn your back on your own. Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your wound shall quickly be healed; your vindication shall go before you, and the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer, you shall cry for help, and he will say: Here I am! If you remove from your midst oppression, false accusation and malicious speech; if you bestow your bread on the hungry and satisfy the afflicted; then light shall rise for you in the darkness, and the gloom shall become for you like midday.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 112:4-5, 6-7, 8-9

R. The just man is a light in darkness to the upright.

 

Light shines through the darkness for the upright; he is gracious and merciful and just. Well for the man who is gracious and lends, who conducts his affairs with justice.

R. The just man is a light in darkness to the upright.

 

He shall never be moved; the just one shall be in everlasting remembrance. An evil report he shall not fear; his heart is firm, trusting in the LORD.

R. The just man is a light in darkness to the upright.

 

His heart is steadfast; he shall not fear. Lavishly he gives to the poor; His justice shall endure forever; his horn shall be exalted in glory.

R. The just man is a light in darkness to the upright.

 

Reading 2 1 COR 2:1-5

When I came to you, brothers and sisters, proclaiming the mystery of God, I did not come with sublimity of words or of wisdom. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified. I came to you in weakness and fear and much trembling, and my message and my proclamation were not with persuasive words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of Spirit and power, so that your faith might rest not on human wisdom but on the power of God.

 

Alleluia JN 8:12

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

I am the light of the world, says the Lord; whoever follows me will have the light of life.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MT 5:13-16

Jesus said to his disciples: "You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Isaias 58, 7-10

Ito ang ipinasasabi ng Panginoon:  “Ang mga nagugutom ay inyong pakanin,  patuluyin sa inyong tahanan ang walang tirahan.  Yaong mga tao  na halos hubad na ay inyong paramtan,  ang iyong pagtulong  sa mga kasama ay huwag tatalikdan.  At kung magkagayon,  matutulad kayo sa bukang-liwayway.  hindi maglalao’t  gagaling ang inyong dugat sa katawan,  ako’y laging sasainyo,  ililigtas kayo at iingatan kahit saang lugar.  Sa araw na iyon.  diringgin ng Panginoon ang dalangin ninyo,  pag kayo’y tumawag,  ako’y tutugon agad.  Kung titigilan ninyo  ang pang-aalipin at pagsuway sa akin,  at ang masamang salita’y iiwasan,  kung ang nagugutom  ay pakakanin ninyo at tutulungan,  ang kadilimang bumabalot sa inyo  ay magiging tila liwanag sa katanghalian.”

 

Salmong Tugunan Salmo 111, 4-5. 6-7. 8a at 9

Tugon: Sa dilim ay may liwanag sa tao na nahahabag.

 

Ang taong matuwid, may bait at habag,  kahit sa madilim taglay ay liwanang.  Ang mapagpautang nagiging mapalad,  kung sa hanapbuhay siya’y laging tapat.

Tugon: Sa dilim ay may liwanag sa tao na nahahabag.

 

Hindi mabibigo ang taong matuwid,  di malilimutan kahit isang saglit.  Anumang balita’y hindi siya takot,  matatag ang puso’t may tiwala sa Diyos.

Tugon: Sa dilim ay may liwanag sa tao na nahahabag.

 

Wala siyang takot hindi nangangamba,  alam na babagsak ang kaaway niya.  Mabait na lubha, lalo sa mahirap,  ang pagiging mat’wid ay di nagwawakas,  buong karangalan siyang itataas.

Tugon: Sa dilim ay may liwanag sa tao na nahahabag.

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa 1 Corinto 2, 1-5

Mga kapatid, nang ako’y pumariyan, ipinahayag ko sa inyo ang lihim na panukala ng Diyos, ngunit hindi sa pamamagitan ng malalalim na pananalita o matataas na karunungan. Ipinasiya kong wala akong ipangangaral sa inyo kundi si Hesukristo na ipinako sa krus. Kaya mahina, takot, at nanginginig akong humarap sa inyo. Sa pananalita at pangangaral ko’y hindi ko kayo inakit ng matatamis na pangungusap batay sa karunungan ng tao, kundi sa pamamagitan ng patotoo ng Espiritu at ng kapangyarihan ng Diyos. Kaya’t hindi na karunungan ng tao kundi sa kapangyarihan ng Diyos nababatay ang inyong pananalig kay Kristo.

 

Aleluya Juan 8, 12

Aleluya! Aleluya!

Sinabi ni Hesukristo: “Ako ay ilaw ng mundo at buhay ng alagad ko.”

Aleluya! Aleluya!

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 5, 13-16

Noong panahong iyon, sinabi ni Hesus sa kanyang mga alagad, “Kayo’y asin sa sanlibutan. Kung mawalan ng alat ang asin, paano pang mapananauli ang alat nito? Wala na itong kabuluhan kaya’t itinatapon na lamang at niyayapakan ng mga tao.

 

“Kayo’y ilaw sa sanlibutan. Hindi maitatago ang isang lungsod na nakatayo sa ibabaw ng burol. Walang nagsisindi ng ilaw at naglalagay nito sa ilalim ng takalan. Sa halip ay inilalagay ito sa talagang patungan upang matanglawan ang lahat ng nasa bahay. Gayun din naman, dapat ninyong paliwanagin ang inyong ilaw sa harapan ng mga tao, upang makita nila ang inyong mabubuting gawa, at luwalhatiin ang inyong Amang nasa langit.”

 

 

FEBRUARY 6, 2017

Reading 1 GN1:1-19

In the beginning, when God created the heavens and the earth, the earth was a formless wasteland, and darkness covered the abyss, while a mighty wind swept over the waters.

 

Then God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. God saw how good the light was. God then separated the light from the darkness. God called the light "day," and the darkness he called "night." Thus evening came, and morning followed–the first day.

 

Then God said, "Let there be a dome in the middle of the waters, to separate one body of water from the other." And so it happened: God made the dome, and it separated the water above the dome from the water below it. God called the dome "the sky." Evening came, and morning followed–the second day.

 

Then God said, "Let the water under the sky be gathered into a single basin, so that the dry land may appear." And so it happened: the water under the sky was gathered into its basin, and the dry land appeared. God called the dry land "the earth," and the basin of the water he called "the sea." God saw how good it was. Then God said, "Let the earth bring forth vegetation: every kind of plant that bears seed and every kind of fruit tree on earth that bears fruit with its seed in it." And so it happened: the earth brought forth every kind of plant that bears seed and every kind of fruit tree on earth that bears fruit with its seed in it. God saw how good it was. Evening came, and morning followed–the third day.

 

Then God said: "Let there be lights in the dome of the sky, to separate day from night. Let them mark the fixed times, the days and the years, and serve as luminaries in the dome of the sky, to shed light upon the earth." And so it happened: God made the two great lights, the greater one to govern the day, and the lesser one to govern the night; and he made the stars. God set them in the dome of the sky, to shed light upon the earth, to govern the day and the night, and to separate the light from the darkness. God saw how good it was. Evening came, and morning followed–the fourth day.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 104:1-2A, 5-6, 10 AND 12, 24 AND 35C

R. May the Lord be glad in his works.

 

Bless the LORD, O my soul! O LORD, my God, you are great indeed! You are clothed with majesty and glory, robed in light as with a cloak.

R. May the Lord be glad in his works.

 

You fixed the earth upon its foundation, not to be moved forever; With the ocean, as with a garment, you covered it; above the mountains the waters stood.

R. May the Lord be glad in his works.

 

You send forth springs into the watercourses that wind among the mountains. Beside them the birds of heaven dwell; from among the branches they send forth their song.

R. May the Lord be glad in his works.

 

How manifold are your works, O LORD! In wisdom you have wrought them all— the earth is full of your creatures; Bless the LORD, O my soul! Alleluia.

R. May the Lord be glad in his works.

 

Alleluia MT 4:23

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Jesus preached the Gospel of the Kingdom and cured every disease among the people.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 6:53-56

After making the crossing to the other side of the sea, Jesus and his disciples came to land at Gennesaret and tied up there. As they were leaving the boat, people immediately recognized him. They scurried about the surrounding country and began to bring in the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. Whatever villages or towns or countryside he entered, they laid the sick in the marketplaces and begged him that they might touch only the tassel on his cloak; and as many as touched it were healed.

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 1, 1-19

Nang simulang likhain ng Diyos ang lupa at ang langit, ang lupa ay wala pang hugis o anyo. Dilim ang bumabalot sa kalaliman at umiihip ang malakas na hangin sa ibabaw ng tubig. Sinabi ng Diyos: “Magkaroon ng liwanag!” At nagkaroon nga. Nasiyahan ang Diyos nang ito’y mamasdan. Pinagbukod niya ang liwanag at ang dilim. Ang liwanag ay tinawag niyang Arawm at ang dilim naman ay tinawag niyang Gabi. Dumaan ang gabi, at sumapit ang umaga -iyon ang unang araw.

 

Sinabi ng Diyos: “Magkaroon ng kalawakang maghahati sa tubig upang ito’y magkahiwalay!” At nangyari ito. Ginawa ng Diyos ang kalawakan na pumagitan sa tubig na nasa itaas at nasa ibaba. Langit ang itinawag niya sa kalawakan. Dumaan ang gabi, at sumapit ang umaga – iyon ang ikalawang araw.

 

Sinabi ng Diyos: “Magsama sa isang dako ang tubig sa silong ng langit upang lumitaw ang lupa.” At ito’y nangyari. Ang lupa ay tinawag niyang Daigdig, at Karagatan naman ang nagsama-samang tubig. Nasiyahan siya nang ito’y mamasdan. Pagkatapos, sinabi ng Diyos: “Magkaroon sa lupa ng lahat ng uri ng halamang namumunga at nagbubutil!” At nangyari ito. Tumubo nga sa lupa ang gayong mga halaman. Nasiyahan siya sa kanyang ginawa nang ito’y mamasdan. Dumaan ang gabi, at sumapit ang umaga – iyon ang ikatlong araw.

 

Sinabi pa ng Diyos: “Magkaroon ng mga tanglaw sa langit para mabukod ang araw sa gabi. Ito ang magiging batayan sa bilang ng mga araw, taon at kapistahan. Mula sa langit, ang mga ito’y magsasabog ng liwanag sa daigdig.” At gayun nga ang nangyari. Nilikha ng Diyos ang dalawang malaking tanglaw na ito upang magsabog ng liwanag sa daigdig, tumanglaw kung araw o gabi, at magbukod sa liwanag at dilim. Pinagmasdan ng Diyos ang kanyang ginawa at siya’y nasiyahan. Dumaan ang gabi, at sumapit ang umaga – iyon ang ika-apat na araw.

 

Salmong Tugunan Salmo 103, 1-2a. 5-6. 10 at 12. 24 at 35k

Tugon: Ang Poon ay natutuwa sa kanyang mga nilikha.

 

Pinupuri ka, Poong Diyos, nitong aking kaluluwa  ikaw Panginoong Diyos ko, kay dakila mong talaga!  Ang taglay mong kasuuta’y dakila ri’t marangal pa.  Nababatbat ka, Poong Diyos, ng liwanag na kay ganda.

Tugon: Ang Poon ay natutuwa sa kanyang mga nilikha.

 

Ikaw na rin ang nagtayo ng saligan nitong lupa,  matatag na ginawa mo’t hindi ito mauuga.  Ang ibabaw ng saliga’y ginawa mong karagatan,  at tubig din ang bumalot sa lahat ng kabundukan.

Tugon: Ang Poon ay natutuwa sa kanyang mga nilikha.

 

Lumilikha ka ng ilog na patungong kapatagan,  sa gilid ng mga burol, umaagos na marahan.  Sa naroong kakahuya’y umaawit ng masaya,  mga ibo’y nagpupugad sa malabay nilang sanga.

Tugon: Ang Poon ay natutuwa sa kanyang mga nilikha.

 

Sa daigdig, Panginoon, kay rami ng iyong likha  pagkat ikaw ay marunong kaya ito ay nagawa,  Sa dami ng nilikha mo’y nakalatan itong lupa.  purihin ang Panginoon, purihin mo, kaluluwa!

Tugon: Ang Poon ay natutuwa sa kanyang mga nilikha.

 

Aleluya Mateo 4, 23

Aleluya! Aleluya!

Ipinangaral ni Hesus ang paghahari ng Diyos. Sakit ay kanyang ginamot.

Aleluya! Aleluya!

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 6, 53-56

Noong panahong iyon, sina Hesus at ang kanyang mga alagad ay tumawid ng lawa, at pagdating sa Genesaret ay isinadsad nila ang bangka. Panglunsad nila, nakilala siya agad ng mga tao kaya’t nagmamadaling nilibot ng mga ito ang mga pook sa paligid; at ang mga maysakit, na nakaratay na sa higaan ay dinala nila kay Hesus, saanman siya dumating, maging sa nayon, lungsod, o kabukiran, ay dinadala sa liwasan ang mga maysakit, at isinasamo sa kanya na pahipuin sila kahit man lang sa palawit ng kanyang kasuutan. At lahat ng makahipo nito ay gumagaling.

 

 

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

Reading 1 GN 1:20—2:4A

God said, "Let the water teem with an abundance of living creatures, and on the earth let birds fly beneath the dome of the sky." And so it happened: God created the great sea monsters and all kinds of swimming creatures with which the water teems, and all kinds of winged birds. God saw how good it was, and God blessed them, saying, "Be fertile, multiply, and fill the water of the seas; and let the birds multiply on the earth." Evening came, and morning followed–the fifth day.

 

Then God said, "Let the earth bring forth all kinds of living creatures: cattle, creeping things, and wild animals of all kinds." And so it happened: God made all kinds of wild animals, all kinds of cattle, and all kinds of creeping things of the earth. God saw how good it was. Then God said: "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and the cattle, and over all the wild animals and all the creatures that crawl on the ground."

 

God created man in his image; in the divine image he created him; male and female he created them.

 

God blessed them, saying: "Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth." God also said: "See, I give you every seed-bearing plant all over the earth and every tree that has seed-bearing fruit on it to be your food; and to all the animals of the land, all the birds of the air, and all the living creatures that crawl on the ground, I give all the green plants for food." And so it happened. God looked at everything he had made, and he found it very good. Evening came, and morning followed–the sixth day.

 

Thus the heavens and the earth and all their array were completed. Since on the seventh day God was finished with the work he had been doing, he rested on the seventh day from all the work he had undertaken. So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work he had done in creation.

 

Such is the story of the heavens and the earth at their creation.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 8:4-5, 6-7, 8-9

R. O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!

 

When I behold your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars which you set in place— What is man that you should be mindful of him, or the son of man that you should care for him?

R. O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!

 

You have made him little less than the angels, and crowned him with glory and honor. You have given him rule over the works of your hands, putting all things under his feet.

R. O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!

 

All sheep and oxen, yes, and the beasts of the field, The birds of the air, the fishes of the sea, and whatever swims the paths of the seas.

R. O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!

 

Alleluia PS 119:36, 29B

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Incline my heart, O God, to your decrees; and favor me with your law.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 7:1-13

When the Pharisees with some scribes who had come from Jerusalem gathered around Jesus, they observed that some of his disciples ate their meals with unclean, that is, unwashed, hands. (For the Pharisees and, in fact, all Jews, do not eat without carefully washing their hands, keeping the tradition of the elders. And on coming from the marketplace they do not eat without purifying themselves. And there are many other things that they have traditionally observed, the purification of cups and jugs and kettles and beds.) So the Pharisees and scribes questioned him, "Why do your disciples not follow the tradition of the elders but instead eat a meal with unclean hands?" He responded, "Well did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites, as it is written:

 

This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines human precepts.

 

You disregard God's commandment but cling to human tradition." He went on to say, "How well you have set aside the commandment of God in order to uphold your tradition! For Moses said, Honor your father and your mother, and Whoever curses father or mother shall die. Yet you say, 'If someone says to father or mother, "Any support you might have had from me is qorban"' (meaning, dedicated to God), you allow him to do nothing more for his father or mother. You nullify the word of God in favor of your tradition that you have handed on. And you do many such things."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 1, 20-2, 4

Sinabi ng Diyos: “Magkaroon sa tubig ng maraming bagay na may buhay, at magkaroon din ng mga ibon sa himpapawid.” Nilikha ng Diyos ang mga dambuhala sa dagat, at lahat ng bagay na nabubuhay sa tubig, gayundin ang lahat ng uri ng ibon. Nasiyahan ang Diyos nang ito'y mamasdan. Pinagpala niya ang mga ito at sinabi: “Magpakarami ang lahat ng bagay na nabubuhay sa tubig at punuin ang karagatan; magpakarami rin ang mga ibon at punuin ang daigdig.” Lumipas ang gabi, at sumapit ang umaga—iyon ang ikalimang araw.

 

Sinabi ng Diyos: “Magkaroon ng lahat ng uri ng hayop sa lupa—maaamo, maiilap, malalaki at maliliit.” At gayon nga ang nangyari. Ginawa nga niya ang lahat ng ito, at nasiyahan siya nang ito'y kanyang mamasdan.

 

Pagkatapos, sinabi ng Diyos: “Ngayon, likhain natin ang tao ayon sa ating larawan, ayon sa ating wangis. Sila ang mamamahala sa mga isda, sa mga ibon sa himpapawid at sa lahat ng hayop, maging maamo o mailap, malaki o maliit.” Nilalang nga ng Diyos ang tao ayon sa kanyang larawan. Sila'y kanyang nilalang na isang lalaki at isang babae, at sila'y pinagpala niya. Sinabi niya, “Magpakarami kayo at punuin ninyo ng inyong mga anak ang buong daigdig, at kayo ang mamahala nito. Binibigyan ko kayo ng kapangyarihan sa mga isda sa tubig, sa mga ibon sa himpapawid, at sa lahat ng mga hayop na nasa ibabaw ng lupa. Ibinibigay ko rin sa inyo ang lahat ng uri ng halamang nagkakabinhi at mga bungangkahoy bilang pagkain ninyo. Ang lahat ng halamang luntian ay ibinibigay ko naman sa lahat ng hayop sa ibabaw ng lupa at sa lahat ng mga ibon.” At ito nga ang nangyari. 31 Pinagmasdan ng Diyos ang lahat niyang ginawa, at lubos siyang nasiyahan. Lumipas ang gabi, at sumapit ang umaga—iyon ang ikaanim na araw.

 

Nilikha nga ng Diyos ang langit at ang lupa at ang lahat ng bagay na naroroon. Tinapos niyang likhain ang lahat ng ito sa loob ng anim na araw, at siya'y nagpahinga sa ikapitong araw. Pinagpala niya ang ikapitong araw at itinuring itong banal, sapagkat sa araw na ito siya nagpahinga matapos likhain ang lahat. Ganito ang pagkalikha sa langit at sa lupa.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 7, 1-13

Lumapit kay Jesus ang mga Pariseo kasama ang ilang tagapagturo ng Kautusan na galing pa sa Jerusalem. Nakita nila ang ilan sa mga alagad niya na kumakain nang marumi ang mga kamay dahil hindi nahugasan ayon sa kaugalian ng mga Judio.

 

(Sapagkat ang mga Judio, lalo na ang mga Pariseo, ay hindi kumakain hangga't hindi muna sila nakapaghuhugas ng kamay ayon sa kaugaliang minana nila mula sa kanilang mga ninuno. Hindi rin sila kumakain ng anumang galing sa palengke nang hindi muna ito hinuhugasan. Marami pa silang sinusunod na katuruang minana, tulad ng paghuhugas ng mga tasa, pitsel, sisidlang tanso, at mga higaan.) Kaya tinanong si Jesus ng mga Pariseo at ng mga tagapagturo ng Kautusan, “Bakit hindi sumusunod ang mga alagad mo sa mga turo ng ating mga ninuno? Kumakain sila nang hindi man lamang naghuhugas ng kamay ayon sa kaugalian.”

 

Sinagot sila ni Jesus, “Mga mapagkunwari! Tama nga ang sinabi ni Isaias tungkol sa inyo, nang kanyang isulat,

 

‘Ang paggalang sa akin ng bayang ito ay pakunwari lamang, sapagkat ito'y sa bibig at hindi sa puso bumubukal.

Walang kabuluhan ang kanilang pagsamba, sapagkat itinuturo nilang galing sa Diyos ang kanilang mga utos.’

 

Binabaliwala ninyo ang utos ng Diyos, at ang sinusunod ninyo'y mga tradisyon ng tao.”

 

Sinabi pa ni Jesus, “Ang gagaling ninyo! Para lamang masunod ang inyong mga tradisyon, pinapawalang-bisa ninyo ang utos ng Diyos! Halimbawa, iniutos ni Moises na ‘Igalang mo ang iyong ama at ina’, at ‘Ang sinumang lumait sa kanyang ama o ina ay dapat patayin.’ Ngunit itinuturo naman ninyo na kapag sinabi ng isang tao sa kanyang ama o ina, ‘Naihandog ko na sa Diyos ang mga tulong ko sa inyo’; ang taong iyon ay hindi na ninyo pinapatulong sa kanilang mga magulang. Sa gayong paraan, pinapawalang-bisa ninyo ang salita ng Diyos sa pamamagitan ng mga itinuturo ninyo. At marami pa kayong ginagawang katulad nito.”

 

 

 

FEBRUARY 8, 2017

Reading 1 GN 2:4B-9, 15-17

At the time when the LORD God made the earth and the heavens— while as yet there was no field shrub on earth and no grass of the field had sprouted, for the LORD God had sent no rain upon the earth and there was no man to till the soil, but a stream was welling up out of the earth and was watering all the surface of the ground— the LORD God formed man out of the clay of the ground and blew into his nostrils the breath of life, and so man became a living being.

 

Then the LORD God planted a garden in Eden, in the east, and he placed there the man whom he had formed. Out of the ground the LORD God made various trees grow that were delightful to look at and good for food, with the tree of life in the middle of the garden and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

 

The LORD God then took the man and settled him in the garden of Eden, to cultivate and care for it. The LORD God gave man this order: "You are free to eat from any of the trees of the garden except the tree of knowledge of good and evil. From that tree you shall not eat; the moment you eat from it you are surely doomed to die."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 104:1-2A, 27-28, 29BC-30

R. O bless the Lord, my soul!

 

Bless the LORD, O my soul! O LORD, my God, you are great indeed! You are clothed with majesty and glory, robed in light as with a cloak.

R. O bless the Lord, my soul!

 

All creatures look to you to give them food in due time. When you give it to them, they gather it; when you open your hand, they are filled with good things.

R. O bless the Lord, my soul!

 

If you take away their breath, they perish and return to their dust. When you send forth your spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the earth.

R. O bless the Lord, my soul!

 

Alleluia SEE JN 17:17B, 17A

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Your word, O Lord, is truth: consecrate us in the truth.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 7:14-23

Jesus summoned the crowd again and said to them, "Hear me, all of you, and understand. Nothing that enters one from outside can defile that person; but the things that come out from within are what defile."

 

When he got home away from the crowd his disciples questioned him about the parable. He said to them, "Are even you likewise without understanding? Do you not realize that everything that goes into a person from outside cannot defile, since it enters not the heart but the stomach and passes out into the latrine?" (Thus he declared all foods clean.) "But what comes out of the man, that is what defiles him. From within the man, from his heart, come evil thoughts, unchastity, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, licentiousness, envy, blasphemy, arrogance, folly. All these evils come from within and they defile."

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 2, 4-9

Nang likhain ng Panginoong Yahweh ang lupa at lahat ng bagay sa langit, wala pang anumang halaman o pananim sa lupa, sapagkat hindi pa nagpapaulan noon ang Panginoong Yahweh, at wala pa ring nagsasaka. Ngunit mayroon nang bukal ng tubig na dumidilig sa kapatagan sa lupa.

 

Pagkatapos, ginawa ng Panginoong Yahweh ang tao mula sa alabok, hiningahan niya sa ilong, at nagkaroon ito ng buhay.

 

Gumawa ang Panginoong Yahweh ng isang halamanan sa Eden, sa dakong silangan, at doon dinala ang taong kanyang nilalang. Pinatubo niya roon ang lahat ng uri ng punongkahoy na magagandang pagmasdan at masasarap ang bunga. Sa gitna ng halamanan ay naroon ang punongkahoy na nagbibigay-buhay, at gayundin ang punongkahoy na nagbibigay-kaalaman tungkol sa mabuti at masama.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 7, 14-23

Muling pinalapit ni Jesus ang mga tao at sinabi sa kanila, “Makinig kayong lahat at unawain ang aking sasabihin!

 

Hindi nagiging marumi ang isang tao dahil sa pagkaing pumapasok sa kanyang bibig, kundi dahil sa lumalabas dito. Makinig ang may pandinig!”

 

Iniwan ni Jesus ang mga tao, at nang makapasok na siya sa bahay, siya'y tinanong ng kanyang mga alagad tungkol sa talinghaga. “Pati ba naman kayo ay hindi pa rin makaunawa?” tanong ni Jesus. “Hindi ba ninyo alam na hindi nagiging marumi ang isang tao dahil sa pagkaing ipinapasok niya sa kanyang bibig, sapagkat hindi naman iyon pumapasok sa kanyang puso, kundi sa tiyan, at pagkatapos ay idinudumi.” (Sa ganitong paraan ay ipinahayag ni Jesus na ang lahat ng pagkain ay maaaring kainin.)

 

At sinabi rin niya, “Ang lumalabas sa tao ang nagpaparumi sa kanya sa paningin ng Diyos. Sapagkat sa loob, sa puso ng tao, nagmumula ang masasamang isipang nag-uudyok sa kanya upang makiapid, magnakaw, pumatay, mangalunya, mag-imbot, gumawa ng kasamaan tulad ng pandaraya, kahalayan, pagkainggit, paninirang-puri, pagmamayabang, at kahangalan. Ang lahat ng masasamang bagay na ito ay nanggagaling sa puso at dahil sa mga ito ay nagiging marumi ang tao.”

 

 

FEBRUARY 9, 2017

Reading 1 GN 2:18-25

The LORD God said: "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a suitable partner for him." So the LORD God formed out of the ground various wild animals and various birds of the air, and he brought them to the man to see what he would call them; whatever the man called each of them would be its name. The man gave names to all the cattle, all the birds of the air, and all the wild animals; but none proved to be the suitable partner for the man.

 

So the LORD God cast a deep sleep on the man, and while he was asleep, he took out one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. The LORD God then built up into a woman the rib that he had taken from the man. When he brought her to the man, the man said:

 

"This one, at last, is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; this one shall be called 'woman,' for out of 'her man' this one has been taken."

 

That is why a man leaves his father and mother and clings to his wife, and the two of them become one flesh.

 

The man and his wife were both naked, yet they felt no shame.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 128:1-2, 3, 4-5

R. Blessed are those who fear the Lord.

 

Blessed are you who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways! For you shall eat the fruit of your handiwork; blessed shall you be, and favored.

R. Blessed are those who fear the Lord.

 

Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the recesses of your home; Your children like olive plants around your table.

R. Blessed are those who fear the Lord.

 

Behold, thus is the man blessed who fears the LORD. The LORD bless you from Zion: may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life.

R. Blessed are those who fear the Lord.

 

Alleluia JAS 1:21BC

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Humbly welcome the word that has been planted in you and is able to save your souls.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 7:24-30

Jesus went to the district of Tyre. He entered a house and wanted no one to know about it, but he could not escape notice. Soon a woman whose daughter had an unclean spirit heard about him. She came and fell at his feet. The woman was a Greek, a Syrophoenician by birth, and she begged him to drive the demon out of her daughter. He said to her, "Let the children be fed first. For it is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs." She replied and said to him, "Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children's scraps." Then he said to her, "For saying this, you may go. The demon has gone out of your daughter." When the woman went home, she found the child lying in bed and the demon gone.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 2, 18-25

Matapos gawin ang lahat ng ito, sinabi ng Panginoong Yahweh, “Hindi mabuti na mag-isa ang tao; bibigyan ko siya ng isang angkop na makakasama at makakatulong.” Kaya, mula sa lupa ay lumikha ang Panginoong Yahweh ng mga hayop sa parang at mga ibon sa himpapawid, dinala niya ang mga ito sa tao upang ipaubaya rito ang pagbibigay ng pangalan sa mga iyon. Kung ano ang kanyang itinawag, iyon ang naging pangalan ng mga ito. Ang tao nga ang nagbigay ng pangalan sa lahat ng ibon sa himpapawid at hayop sa parang. Ngunit wala isa man sa mga ito ang nababagay na makasama at makatulong niya.

 

Kaya't pinatulog ng Panginoong Yahweh ang tao. Samantalang nahihimbing, kinuha niya ang isang tadyang nito at pinaghilom ang laman sa tapat niyon. Ang tadyang na iyo'y ginawa niyang isang babae, at dinala niya ito sa lalaki. Sinabi ng lalaki,

 

“Sa wakas, narito ang isang tulad ko, laman ng aking laman, buto ng aking buto; babae ang itatawag sa kanya, sapagkat sa lalaki siya'y kinuha.”

 

Ito ang dahilan kaya iniiwan ng lalaki ang kanyang ama't ina, nagsasama sila ng kanyang asawa, at sila'y nagiging isa. Kapwa hubad noon ang lalaki at ang babae, ngunit hindi sila nahihiya.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 7, 24-30

Umalis doon si Jesus at nagpunta sa lugar na malapit sa Tiro at ng Sidon. Tumuloy siya sa isang bahay doon at ayaw niyang malaman ninuman na naroon siya. Subalit hindi ganoon ang nangyari. Ang pagdating niya'y nabalitaan ng isang babae na may anak na babaing sinasapian ng masamang espiritu. Pumunta agad kay Jesus ang ina at nagpatirapa sa kanyang harapan. Ang babaing ito'y isang Hentil na taga-Sirofenicia. Nakiusap ito kay Jesus na palayasin ang demonyong sumapi sa kanyang anak. Ngunit sinabi ni Jesus, “Kailangang ang mga anak muna ang pakainin. Hindi dapat kunin ang pagkain ng mga anak upang ihagis sa mga aso.”

 

Tugon ng babae, “Tunay nga po, Panginoon, ngunit maging ang mga asong nasa ilalim ng mesa ay kumakain ng mga nalalaglag mula sa kinakain ng mga anak.”

 

Kaya't sinabi sa kanya ni Jesus, “Dahil sa sinabi mo, maaari ka nang umuwi. Iniwan na ng demonyo ang iyong anak.”

 

Umuwi ang babae at naratnan niya sa higaan ang bata. Iniwan na nga ito ng demonyo.

 

 

FEBRUARY 10, 2017

 

 

Reading 1 GN 3:1-8

Now the serpent was the most cunning of all the animals that the LORD God had made. The serpent asked the woman, "Did God really tell you not to eat from any of the trees in the garden?" The woman answered the serpent: "We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden; it is only about the fruit of the tree in the middle of the garden that God said, 'You shall not eat it or even touch it, lest you die.'" But the serpent said to the woman: "You certainly will not die! No, God knows well that the moment you eat of it your eyes will be opened and you will be like gods who know what is good and what is evil." The woman saw that the tree was good for food, pleasing to the eyes, and desirable for gaining wisdom. So she took some of its fruit and ate it; and she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized that they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made loincloths for themselves.

 

When they heard the sound of the LORD God moving about in the garden at the breezy time of the day, the man and his wife hid themselves from the LORD God among the trees of the garden.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 32:1-2, 5, 6, 7

R. Blessed are those whose sins are forgiven.

 

Blessed is he whose fault is taken away, whose sin is covered. Blessed the man to whom the LORD imputes not guilt, in whose spirit there is no guile.

R. Blessed are those whose sins are forgiven.

 

Then I acknowledged my sin to you, my guilt I covered not. I said, "I confess my faults to the LORD," and you took away the guilt of my sin.

R. Blessed are those whose sins are forgiven.

 

For this shall every faithful man pray to you in time of stress. Though deep waters overflow, they shall not reach him.

R. Blessed are those whose sins are forgiven.

 

You are my shelter; from distress you will preserve me; with glad cries of freedom you will ring me round.

R. Blessed are those whose sins are forgiven.

 

Alleluia ACTS 16:14B

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Open our hearts, O Lord, to listen to the words of your Son.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 7:31-37

Jesus left the district of Tyre and went by way of Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, into the district of the Decapolis. And people brought to him a deaf man who had a speech impediment and begged him to lay his hand on him. He took him off by himself away from the crowd. He put his finger into the man's ears and, spitting, touched his tongue; then he looked up to heaven and groaned, and said to him, "Ephphatha!" (that is, "Be opened!") And immediately the man's ears were opened, his speech impediment was removed, and he spoke plainly. He ordered them not to tell anyone. But the more he ordered them not to, the more they proclaimed it. They were exceedingly astonished and they said, "He has done all things well. He makes the deaf hear and the mute speak."

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 3, 1-8

Ang ahas ang pinakatuso sa lahat ng hayop na nilikha ng Panginoong Yahweh. Isang araw tinanong nito ang babae, “Totoo bang sinabi ng Diyos na huwag kayong kakain ng anumang bungangkahoy sa halamanan?”

 

Sumagot ang babae, “Maaari naming kainin ang anumang bunga sa halamanan, huwag lamang ang bunga ng puno na nasa gitna niyon. Sinabi ng Diyos na huwag naming kakainin ni hihipuin man ang bunga nito; kung kami raw ay kakain nito, mamamatay kami.”

 

Ngunit sinabi ng ahas, “Hindi totoo iyan, hindi kayo mamamatay! Sinabi lang iyan ng Diyos, sapagkat alam niyang kung kakain kayo ng bunga niyon ay makakaunawa kayo. Kayo'y magiging parang Diyos at malalaman ninyo ang mabuti at masama.”

 

Ang punongkahoy ay napakaganda sa paningin ng babae at sa palagay niya'y masarap ang bunga nito. Naisip din niya na kahanga-hanga ang maging marunong, kaya't pumitas siya ng bunga at kumain nito. Binigyan niya ang kanyang asawa, at kumain din ito. Nagkaroon nga sila ng pagkaunawa matapos kumain. Noon nila nalamang sila'y hubad, kaya kumuha sila ng mga dahon ng igos, pinagtahi-tahi nila ang mga ito at ginawang panakip sa katawan.

 

Nang dapit-hapon na, narinig nilang naglalakad sa halamanan ang Panginoong Yahweh, kaya't nagtago sila sa mga puno. Ngunit tinawag niya ang lalaki at tinanong, “Saan ka naroon?”

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 7, 31-37

Umalis si Jesus mula sa lupain ng Tiro, dumaan sa Sidon at nagtuloy sa Lawa ng Galilea. Tinahak niya ang lupain ng Decapolis. Dinala ng mga tao sa kanya ang isang lalaking bingi at may kapansanan sa pagsasalita, at nakiusap sila sa kanya na ipatong niya rito ang kanyang kamay. Inilayo muna ni Jesus sa karamihan ang lalaki, at isinuot ang kanyang mga daliri sa mga tainga nito. Pagkatapos, dumura si Jesus at ipinahid ito sa dila ng pipi. Tumingala si Jesus sa langit, nagbuntong-hininga at sinabi sa lalaki, “Effata,” na ang ibig sabihi'y, “Mabuksan!”

 

Noon di'y nakarinig ang lalaki at nakapagsalita na nang maayos. Sinabi ni Jesus sa mga tao na huwag ipamalita ito, ngunit habang pinagbabawalan niya ang mga tao ay lalo naman nila itong ipinamamalita. Buong paghangang sinasabi nila, “Napakahusay ng lahat ng kanyang ginagawa! Binibigyan niya ng pandinig ang mga bingi at pinapagsalita ang mga pipi!”

 

 

FEBRUARY 11, 2017

 

Reading 1 GN 3:9-24

The LORD God called to Adam and asked him, "Where are you?" He answered, "I heard you in the garden; but I was afraid, because I was naked, so I hid myself." Then he asked, "Who told you that you were naked? You have eaten, then, from the tree of which I had forbidden you to eat!" The man replied, "The woman whom you put here with meB she gave me fruit from the tree, and so I ate it." The LORD God then asked the woman, "Why did you do such a thing?" The woman answered, "The serpent tricked me into it, so I ate it."

 

Then the LORD God said to the serpent:

 

"Because you have done this, you shall be banned from all the animals and from all the wild creatures; On your belly shall you crawl, and dirt shall you eat all the days of your life. I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; He will strike at your head, while you strike at his heel."

 

To the woman he said:

 

"I will intensify the pangs of your childbearing; in pain shall you bring forth children. Yet your urge shall be for your husband, and he shall be your master."

 

To the man he said: "Because you listened to your wife and ate from the tree of which I had forbidden you to eat,

 

"Cursed be the ground because of you! In toil shall you eat its yield all the days of your life. Thorns and thistles shall it bring forth to you, as you eat of the plants of the field. By the sweat of your face shall you get bread to eat, Until you return to the ground, from which you were taken; For you are dirt, and to dirt you shall return." The man called his wife Eve, because she became the mother of all the living.

 

For the man and his wife the LORD God made leather garments, with which he clothed them. Then the LORD God said: "See! The man has become like one of us, knowing what is good and what is evil! Therefore, he must not be allowed to put out his hand to take fruit from the tree of life also, and thus eat of it and live forever." The LORD God therefore banished him from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from which he had been taken. When he expelled the man, he settled him east of the garden of Eden; and he stationed the cherubim and the fiery revolving sword, to guard the way to the tree of life.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 90:2, 3-4ABC, 5-6, 12-13

R. In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

 

Before the mountains were begotten and the earth and the world were brought forth, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.

R. In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

 

You turn man back to dust, saying, "Return, O children of men." For a thousand years in your sight are as yesterday, now that it is past, or as a watch of the night.

R. In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

 

You make an end of them in their sleep; the next morning they are like the changing grass, Which at dawn springs up anew, but by evening wilts and fades.

R. In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

 

Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart. Return, O LORD! How long? Have pity on your servants!

R. In every age, O Lord, you have been our refuge.

 

Alleluia MT 4:4B

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 8:1-10

In those days when there again was a great crowd without anything to eat, Jesus summoned the disciples and said, "My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, because they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat. If I send them away hungry to their homes, they will collapse on the way, and some of them have come a great distance." His disciples answered him, "Where can anyone get enough bread to satisfy them here in this deserted place?" Still he asked them, "How many loaves do you have?" They replied, "Seven." He ordered the crowd to sit down on the ground. Then, taking the seven loaves he gave thanks, broke them, and gave them to his disciples to distribute, and they distributed them to the crowd. They also had a few fish. He said the blessing over them and ordered them distributed also. They ate and were satisfied. They picked up the fragments left over–seven baskets. There were about four thousand people.

 

He dismissed the crowd and got into the boat with his disciples and came to the region of Dalmanutha.

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 3, 9-24

Ngunit tinawag niya ang lalaki at tinanong, “Saan ka naroon?”

 

“Natakot po ako nang marinig kong kayo'y nasa halamanan; nagtago po ako sapagkat ako'y hubad,” sagot ng lalaki.

 

Nagtanong muli ang Diyos, “Sinong maysabi sa iyong hubad ka? Bakit, kumain ka ba ng bungang ipinagbabawal ko?”

 

“Kasi, pinakain po ako ng babaing ibinigay ninyo sa akin,” tugon ng lalaki.

 

“Bakit mo ginawa ang bagay na iyon?” tanong ng Panginoong Yahweh sa babae.

 

“Mangyari po'y nilinlang ako ng ahas, kaya ako natuksong kumain,” sagot naman nito.

 

At sinabi ng Panginoong Yahweh sa ahas:

 

“Sa iyong ginawa'y may parusang dapat, na ikaw lang sa lahat ng hayop ang magdaranas; mula ngayon ikaw ay gagapang, at ang pagkain mo'y alikabok lamang. Kayo ng babae'y aking pag-aawayin, binhi mo't binhi niya'y lagi kong paglalabanin. Ang binhi niya ang dudurog sa iyong ulo, at sa sakong niya'y ikaw ang tutuklaw.” Sa babae nama'y ito ang sinabi: “Sa pagbubuntis mo'y hirap ang daranasin, at sa panganganak sakit ay titiisin; ang asawang lalaki'y iyong nanasain, pasasakop ka sa kanya't siya mong susundin.”

 

Ito naman ang sinabi ng Diyos kay Adan:

 

“Dahil nakinig ka sa iyong asawa, nang iyong kainin ang ipinagbawal kong bunga; dahil dito'y sinusumpa ko ang lupa, sa hirap ng pagbubungkal, pagkain mo'y magmumula. Mga damo at tinik ang iyong aanihin, halaman sa gubat ang iyong kakainin; sa pagod at pawis pagkain mo'y manggagaling maghihirap ka hanggang sa malibing. Dahil sa alabok, doon ka nanggaling, sa lupang alabok ay babalik ka rin.”

 

Eva ang itinawag ni Adan sa kanyang asawa, sapagkat siya ang ina ng sangkatauhan. Ang mag-asawa'y iginawa niya ng mga damit na yari sa balat ng hayop.

 

Pagkatapos, sinabi ng Panginoong Yahweh, “Katulad na natin ngayon ang tao, sapagkat alam na niya ang mabuti at masama. Baka pumitas siya at kumain ng bungangkahoy na nagbibigay-buhay at hindi na siya mamatay.” Kaya, pinalayas niya sa halamanan ng Eden ang tao upang magbungkal ng lupang kanyang pinagmulan.

 

Pinalayas nga siya ng Diyos. At sa dakong silangan ng halamanan ng Eden ay naglagay ang Diyos ng bantay na kerubin. Naglagay rin siya ng espadang nagniningas na umiikot sa lahat ng panig upang hindi malapitan ninuman ang punongkahoy ng buhay.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 8, 1-10

Nang mga araw na iyon, muling nagkatipon ang napakaraming tao. Wala nang makain ang mga ito kaya't tinawag ni Jesus ang kanyang mga alagad at sinabi sa kanila, “Naaawa ako sa mga taong ito sapagkat tatlong araw na ngayong kasama ko sila at wala na silang makain. Kung pauuwiin ko sila nang gutom, mahihilo sila sa daan; malayo pa naman ang pinanggalingan ng ilan sa kanila.”

 

“Ito po ay isang liblib na lugar. Saan po tayo kukuha ng pagkain para sa ganito karaming tao?” tanong ng mga alagad.

 

“Ilan ang tinapay ninyo riyan?” tanong ni Jesus.

 

“Pito po,” sagot nila.

 

Pinaupo ni Jesus sa lupa ang mga tao at kinuha ang pitong tinapay. Nagpasalamat siya sa Diyos, hinati-hati ang mga tinapay at ibinigay sa mga alagad upang ipamahagi sa mga tao. Ganoon nga ang ginawa ng mga alagad. Mayroon din silang ilang maliliit na isda. Muli siyang nagpasalamat sa Diyos at pagkatapos ay iniutos niyang ipamahagi din iyon sa mga tao. Kumain ang lahat at nabusog. Nang tipunin nila ang lumabis, nakapuno pa sila ng pitong kaing. May apat na libong tao ang kumain. Matapos pauwiin ang mga tao, sumakay si Jesus sa bangka, kasama ang kanyang mga alagad, at nagtungo sila sa lupain ng Dalmanuta.

 

 

 

FEBRUARY 12, 2017

 

Reading 1 SIR 15:15-20

If you choose you can keep the commandments, they will save you; if you trust in God, you too shall live; he has set before you fire and water to whichever you choose, stretch forth your hand. Before man are life and death, good and evil, whichever he chooses shall be given him. Immense is the wisdom of the Lord; he is mighty in power, and all-seeing. The eyes of God are on those who fear him; he understands man's every deed. No one does he command to act unjustly, to none does he give license to sin.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 119:1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34

R. Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!

 

Blessed are they whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD. Blessed are they who observe his decrees, who seek him with all their heart.

R. Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!

 

You have commanded that your precepts be diligently kept. Oh, that I might be firm in the ways of keeping your statutes!

R. Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!

 

Be good to your servant, that I may live and keep your words. Open my eyes, that I may consider the wonders of your law.

R. Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!

 

Instruct me, O LORD, in the way of your statutes, that I may exactly observe them. Give me discernment, that I may observe your law and keep it with all my heart.

R. Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!

 

Reading 2 1 COR 2:6-10

Brothers and sisters: We speak a wisdom to those who are mature, not a wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age who are passing away. Rather, we speak God's wisdom, mysterious, hidden, which God predetermined before the ages for our glory, and which none of the rulers of this age knew; for, if they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written: What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and what has not entered the human heart, what God has prepared for those who love him, this God has revealed to us through the Spirit.

 

For the Spirit scrutinizes everything, even the depths of God.

 

Alleluia CF. MT 11:25

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MT 5:17-37

Jesus said to his disciples: "Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law, until all things have taken place. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the kingdom of heaven. I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.

 

"You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment. But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; and whoever says to his brother, 'Raqa,' will be answerable to the Sanhedrin; and whoever says, 'You fool,' will be liable to fiery Gehenna. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Settle with your opponent quickly while on the way to court. Otherwise your opponent will hand you over to the judge, and the judge will hand you over to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Amen, I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny.

 

"You have heard that it was said, You shall not commit adultery. But I say to you, everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body thrown into Gehenna. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body go into Gehenna.

 

"It was also said, Whoever divorces his wife must give her a bill of divorce. But I say to you, whoever divorces his wife -  unless the marriage is unlawful - causes her to commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.

 

"Again you have heard that it was said to your ancestors, Do not take a false oath, but make good to the Lord all that you vow. But I say to you, do not swear at all; not by heaven, for it is God's throne; nor by the earth, for it is his footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. Do not swear by your head, for you cannot make a single hair white or black. Let your 'Yes' mean 'Yes,' and your 'No' mean 'No.' Anything more is from the evil one."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Sirak 15, 16-21

Kung gusto mo, masusunod mo ang utos ng Panginoon,

 

Ikaw ang magpapasiya kung magiging tapat ka sa kanya o hindi.

 

Naglagay siya sa harapan mo ng tubig at ng apoy,

 

kunin mo ang iyong maibigan.

 

Makapipili ka ng alinman sa dalawa: buhay o kamatayan,

 

ang iyong mapili ang siya mong tutunguhan.

 

Dakila ang Karunungan at kapangyarihan ng Panginoon

 

nakikita niya ang lahat ng bagay.

 

Nalalaman niya ang lahat ng ginagawa ng bawat tao,

 

at kinakalinga niya ang mga may takot sa kanya.

 

Kailanma’y wala siya inutusang magkasama,

 

O pinahintulutang magkasala.

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa 1Corinto 2, 6-10

Gayunpaman, sa mga taong matatag na sa buhay espirituwal ay nangangaral kami ng salita ng karunungan, hindi karunungan ng mundong ito, o ng mga tagapamahala sa mundong ito na ang kapangyarihan ay lilipas. Subalit ang ipinapahayag namin ay ang lihim na karunungan ng Diyos na hindi nahayag noong una, na itinalaga na niya para sa ating ikaluluwalhati bago pa likhain ang sanlibutan. Walang isa man sa mga tagapamahala sa daigdig na ito ang nakaunawa sa karunungang iyon, sapagkat kung naunawaan nila iyon, hindi sana nila ipinako sa krus ang Panginoon ng kaluwalhatian. Subalit tulad ng nasusulat,

 

“Hindi pa nakikita ng mata, o naririnig ng tainga, ni hindi pa sumasagi sa isip ng tao ang mga inihanda ng Diyos para sa mga umiibig sa kanya.”

 

Ngunit ito'y inihayag na ng Diyos sa atin sa pamamagitan ng Espiritu. Sinasaliksik ng Espiritu ang lahat ng bagay, maging ang mga pinakamalalim na bagay na may kinalaman sa Diyos.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 5, 17-37

“Huwag ninyong akalaing naparito ako upang ipawalang-bisa ang Kautusan at ang mga Propeta. Naparito ako hindi upang ipawalang-bisa ang mga iyon kundi upang tuparin. Tandaan ninyo: maglalaho ang langit at ang lupa, ngunit ni isang tuldok o kudlit man ng Kautusan ay di mawawalan ng bisa hangga't hindi natutupad ang lahat. Kaya't sinumang magpawalang-bisa sa kaliit-liitang bahagi nito, at magturo nang gayon sa mga tao, ay magiging pinakamababa sa kaharian ng langit. Ngunit ang sumusunod sa Kautusan at nagtuturo sa mga tao na tuparin iyon ay magiging dakila sa kaharian ng langit. Sinasabi ko sa inyo, kung ang pagsunod ninyo sa kalooban ng Diyos ay tulad lamang ng pagsunod ng mga tagapagturo ng Kautusan at mga Pariseo, hinding-hindi kayo makakapasok sa kaharian ng langit.”

 

“Narinig ninyo na sinabi sa inyong mga ninuno, ‘Huwag kang papatay; ang sinumang pumatay ay mananagot sa hukuman.’ Ngunit sinasabi ko naman sa inyo, ang sinumang napopoot sa kanyang kapatid ay mananagot sa hukuman, ang humahamak sa kanyang kapatid ay mananagot sa Kataas-taasang Kapulungan ng mga Judio, at sinumang magsabi sa kanyang kapatid, ‘Ulol ka!’ ay manganganib na maparusahan sa apoy ng impiyerno. Kaya't kung mag-aalay ka ng handog sa dambana para sa Diyos at naalala mong may sama ng loob sa iyo ang iyong kapatid, iwan mo muna ang iyong handog sa harap ng dambana at makipagkasundo ka sa kanya. Pagkatapos, magbalik ka at maghandog sa Diyos.

 

“Kung may ibig magsakdal sa iyo, makipag-ayos ka agad sa kanya bago makarating sa hukuman ang inyong kaso. Kung hindi ay dadalhin ka niya sa hukom, at ibibigay ka nito sa tanod, at ikukulong ka naman sa bilangguan. Tandaan mo: hindi ka makakalabas doon hangga't hindi mo nababayaran ang kahuli-hulihang barya na dapat mong bayaran.”

 

“Narinig ninyong sinabi, ‘Huwag kang mangangalunya.’ Ngunit sinasabi ko sa inyo, ang sinumang tumingin sa isang babae nang may pagnanasa ay nangangalunya na sa babaing iyon sa kanyang puso. Kung ang kanang mata mo ay nagiging sanhi ng iyong pagkakasala, dukitin mo ito at itapon! Mabuti pang mawalan ka ng isang bahagi ng iyong katawan kaysa ang buo mong katawan ang itapon sa impiyerno. Kung ang iyong kanang kamay naman ay nagiging sanhi ng iyong pagkakasala, putulin mo ito at itapon! Mabuti pang mawalan ka ng isang bahagi ng iyong katawan kaysa ang buo mong katawan ang itapon sa impiyerno.”

 

“Sinabi rin naman, ‘Kapag makikipaghiwalay ang isang lalaki sa kanyang asawa, ito'y dapat niyang bigyan ng kasulatan ng paghihiwalay.’ Ngunit sinasabi ko sa inyo, kapag nakipaghiwalay ang isang lalaki sa kanyang asawa, maliban kung ito ay nakikiapid, itinutulak niya ang kanyang asawa sa pangangalunya, at sinumang makipag-asawa sa babaing hiniwalayan ay nagkakasala rin ng pangangalunya.”

 

“Narinig din ninyong sinabi sa inyong mga ninuno, ‘Huwag kang susumpa nang walang katotohanan; sa halip, tuparin mo ang iyong sinumpaang panata sa Panginoon.’ Ngunit sinasabi ko sa inyo, huwag kayong manunumpa kapag kayo'y nangangako. Huwag ninyong sasabihing, ‘Saksi ko ang langit,’ sapagkat ito'y trono ng Diyos; o kaya'y, ‘Saksi ko ang lupa,’ sapagkat ito'y kanyang tuntungan. Huwag din ninyong sasabihing, ‘Saksi ko ang Jerusalem,’ sapagkat ito'y lungsod ng dakilang Hari. Huwag mo ring ipanumpa ang iyong ulo, sapagkat ni isang buhok sa iyong ulo ay hindi mo kayang paputiin o paitimin. Sabihin mo na lang na ‘Oo’ kung oo at ‘Hindi’ kung hindi, sapagkat ang anumang sumpang idaragdag dito ay buhat na sa Masama.”

 

 

 

FEBRUARY 13, 2017

 

Reading 1 GN 4:1-15, 25

The man had relations with his wife Eve, and she conceived and bore Cain, saying, "I have produced a man with the help of the LORD." Next she bore his brother Abel. Abel became a keeper of flocks, and Cain a tiller of the soil. In the course of time Cain brought an offering to the LORD from the fruit of the soil, while Abel, for his part, brought one of the best firstlings of his flock. The LORD looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering he did not. Cain greatly resented this and was crestfallen. So the LORD said to Cain: "Why are you so resentful and crestfallen. If you do well, you can hold up your head; but if not, sin is a demon lurking at the door: his urge is toward you, yet you can be his master."

 

Cain said to his brother Abel, "Let us go out in the field." When they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother Abel and killed him. Then the LORD asked Cain, "Where is your brother Abel?" He answered, "I do not know. Am I my brother's keeper?" The LORD then said: "What have you done! Listen: your brother's blood cries out to me from the soil! Therefore you shall be banned from the soil that opened its mouth to receive your brother's blood from your hand. If you till the soil, it shall no longer give you its produce. You shall become a restless wanderer on the earth." Cain said to the LORD: "My punishment is too great to bear. Since you have now banished me from the soil, and I must avoid your presence and become a restless wanderer on the earth, anyone may kill me at sight." "Not so!" the LORD said to him. "If anyone kills Cain, Cain shall be avenged sevenfold." So the LORD put a mark on Cain, lest anyone should kill him at sight.

 

Adam again had relations with his wife, and she gave birth to a son whom she called Seth. "God has granted me more offspring in place of Abel," she said, "because Cain slew him."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 50:1 AND 8, 16BC-17, 20-21

R. Offer to God a sacrifice of praise.

 

God the LORD has spoken and summoned the earth, from the rising of the sun to its setting. "Not for your sacrifices do I rebuke you, for your burnt offerings are before me always."

R. Offer to God a sacrifice of praise.

 

"Why do you recite my statutes, and profess my covenant with your mouth Though you hate discipline and cast my words behind you?"

R. Offer to God a sacrifice of praise.

 

"You sit speaking against your brother; against your mother's son you spread rumors. When you do these things, shall I be deaf to it? Or do you think that I am like yourself? I will correct you by drawing them up before your eyes."

R. Offer to God a sacrifice of praise.

 

Alleluia JN 14:6

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

I am the way and the truth and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father except through me.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 8:11-13

The Pharisees came forward and began to argue with Jesus, seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him. He sighed from the depth of his spirit and said, "Why does this generation seek a sign? Amen, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation." Then he left them, got into the boat again, and went off to the other shore.

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 4, 1-15. 25

Sinipingan ni Adan ang kanyang asawa at ito'y nagdalang-tao. Nang isilang ang kanyang panganay na lalaki ay sinabi ni Eva: “Nagkaroon ako ng anak na lalaki sa tulong ni Yahweh.” Kaya Cain[a] ang ipinangalan niya rito. Sinundan si Cain ng isa pang anak na lalaki, at Abel naman ang ipinangalan dito. Naging pastol ito at si Cain naman ay naging magsasaka. Dumating ang panahon na si Cain ay naghandog kay Yahweh ng ani niya sa bukid. Kinuha naman ni Abel ang isa sa mga panganay ng kanyang kawan. Pinatay niya ito at inihandog ang pinakamainam na bahagi. Si Yahweh ay nasiyahan kay Abel at sa kanyang handog, ngunit hindi niya kinalugdan si Cain at ang handog nito. Dahil dito, hindi mailarawan ang mukha ni Cain sa tindi ng galit. Kaya't sinabi ni Yahweh, “Anong ikinagagalit mo, Cain? Bakit ganyan ang mukha mo? Kung mabuti ang ginawa mo, dapat kang magsaya. Kung masama naman, ang kasalana'y tulad ng mabangis na hayop na laging nag-aabang upang lapain ka. Nais nitong pagharian ka. Kaya't kailangang mapaglabanan mo ito.”

 

Isang araw, niyaya ni Cain ang kanyang kapatid, “Abel, pumunta tayo sa bukid.” Sumama naman ito, ngunit pagdating nila sa bukid ay pinatay ni Cain si Abel.

 

Tinanong ni Yahweh si Cain, “Nasaan ang kapatid mong si Abel?”

 

Sumagot siya, “Hindi ko alam. Bakit, ako ba'y tagapag-alaga ng aking kapatid?”

 

At sinabi ni Yahweh, “Cain, ano itong ginawa mo? Sumisigaw sa akin mula sa lupa ang dugo ng iyong kapatid, at humihingi ng katarungan. Sinusumpa kita ngayon, at hindi mo na maaaring bungkalin ang lupa dahil dumanak doon ang dugo ng kapatid mo na iyong pinaslang. Bungkalin mo man ang lupa upang tamnan, hindi ka mag-aani; wala kang matitirhan at magiging lagalag ka sa daigdig.”

 

“Napakabigat namang parusa ito!” sabi ni Cain kay Yahweh. “Ngayong pinapalayas mo ako sa lupaing ito upang malayo sa iyong paningin, at maglagalag sa daigdig, papatayin ako ng sinumang makakakita sa akin.”

 

“Hindi,” sagot ni Yahweh. “Paparusahan ng pitong ibayo ang sinumang papatay sa iyo.” Kaya't nilagyan ni Yahweh ng palatandaan si Cain upang maging babala sa sinuman na ito'y hindi dapat patayin.

 

Muling sinipingan ni Adan ang kanyang asawa, at ito'y nanganak ng isa pang lalaki. Sinabi ng ina, “Binigyan ako ng Diyos ng kapalit ni Abel na pinatay ni Cain;” at ito'y tinawag niyang Set.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 8, 11-13

May dumating na mga Pariseo at nakipagtalo kay Jesus. Nais nilang subukin siya kaya't hiniling nilang magpakita siya ng isang himala mula sa langit. Napabuntong-hininga si Jesus at sinabi sa kanila, “Bakit naghahanap ng himala ang mga tao sa panahong ito? Pakatandaan ninyo: hindi sila bibigyan ng hinihingi nilang himala.” At sila'y iniwan niya. Muli siyang sumakay sa bangka at tumawid sa ibayo.

 

 

FEBRUARY 14, 2017

 

Reading 1 GN 6:5-8; 7:1-5, 10

When the LORD saw how great was man's wickedness on earth, and how no desire that his heart conceived was ever anything but evil, he regretted that he had made man on the earth, and his heart was grieved.

 

So the LORD said: "I will wipe out from the earth the men whom I have created, and not only the men, but also the beasts and the creeping things and the birds of the air, for I am sorry that I made them." But Noah found favor with the LORD.

 

Then the LORD said to Noah: "Go into the ark, you and all your household, for you alone in this age have I found to be truly just. Of every clean animal, take with you seven pairs, a male and its mate; and of the unclean animals, one pair, a male and its mate; likewise, of every clean bird of the air, seven pairs, a male and a female, and of all the unclean birds, one pair, a male and a female. Thus you will keep their issue alive over all the earth. Seven days from now I will bring rain down on the earth for forty days and forty nights, and so I will wipe out from the surface of the earth every moving creature that I have made." Noah did just as the LORD had commanded him.

 

As soon as the seven days were over, the waters of the flood came upon the earth.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 29:1A AND 2, 3AC-4, 3B AND 9C-10

R. The Lord will bless his people with peace.

 

Give to the LORD, you sons of God, give to the LORD glory and praise, Give to the LORD the glory due his name; adore the LORD in holy attire.

R. The Lord will bless his people with peace.

 

The voice of the LORD is over the waters, the LORD, over vast waters. The voice of the LORD is mighty; the voice of the LORD is majestic.

R. The Lord will bless his people with peace.

 

The God of glory thunders, and in his temple all say, "Glory!" The LORD is enthroned above the flood; the LORD is enthroned as king forever.

R. The Lord will bless his people with peace.

 

Alleluia JN 14:23

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Whoever loves me will keep my word, says the Lord; and my Father will love him and we will come to him.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 8:14-21

The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. Jesus enjoined them, "Watch out, guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod." They concluded among themselves that it was because they had no bread. When he became aware of this he said to them, "Why do you conclude that it is because you have no bread? Do you not yet understand or comprehend? Are your hearts hardened? Do you have eyes and not see, ears and not hear? And do you not remember, when I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many wicker baskets full of fragments you picked up?" They answered him, "Twelve." "When I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many full baskets of fragments did you pick up?" They answered him, "Seven." He said to them, "Do you still not understand?"

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 6, 5-8. 7, 1-5. 10

Nakita ni Yahweh na laganap na ang kasamaan ng tao sa daigdig, at puro kasamaan na lamang ang palaging nasa isip nito. Kaya't labis na ikinalungkot ni Yahweh na nilikha pa niya ang tao. Sinabi niya, “Lilipulin ko ang lahat ng taong aking nilalang. Lilipulin ko rin ang lahat ng hayop at mga ibon. Ikinalulungkot kong nilalang ko pa ang mga ito.” Ngunit si Noe ay naging kalugud-lugod kay Yahweh.

 

Sinabi ni Yahweh kay Noe, “Pumasok kayong mag-anak sa barko. Sa lahat ng tao'y ikaw lamang ang nakita kong namumuhay ng matuwid. Magdala ka ng pitong pares sa bawat hayop na malinis, at isang pares naman sa di-malinis. Pitong pares din sa bawat uri ng ibon ang iyong dadalhin. Gawin mo ito upang magpatuloy ang kanilang lahi sa balat ng lupa. Pagkaraan ng isang linggo, pauulanin ko nang apatnapung araw at apatnapung gabi upang lipulin ang lahat ng aking nilikha sa daigdig.” At ginawa nga ni Noe ang bawat iniutos ni Yahweh.

 

Pagkaraan ng pitong araw, bumaha nga sa buong daigdig.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 8, 14-21

Nakalimutan ng mga alagad na magdala ng tinapay; iisa lang ang kanilang tinapay sa bangka. Sinabi ni Jesus sa kanila, “Mag-ingat kayo sa pampaalsang kinakalat ng mga Pariseo at ni Herodes.” Sabi nila sa isa't isa, “Wala kasi tayong dalang tinapay kaya sinabi niya iyon.”

 

Dahil alam ni Jesus ang kanilang pinag-uusapan, sinabi niya sa kanila, “Bakit ninyo pinag-uusapang kayo'y walang dalang tinapay? Hindi pa ba kayo nakakaintindi? Hindi pa ba ito abot ng inyong isip? Wala ba kayong mata? Bakit hindi kayo makakita? Wala ba kayong tainga? Bakit hindi kayo makarinig? Hindi ba ninyo naaalala nang paghati-hatiin ko ang limang tinapay para sa limanlibong tao? Ilang kaing ang napuno ninyo ng lumabis na pagkain?”

 

“Labindalawa po,” tugon nila.

 

“At nang paghati-hatiin ko ang pitong tinapay para sa apat na libong tao, ilang kaing ang napuno ninyo?” tanong niya.

 

“Pito po,” muli nilang sagot.

 

“At hindi pa rin ba ninyo nauunawaan ito?” tanong niya.

 

 

FEBRUARY 15, 2017

Reading 1 GN 8:6-13, 20-22

At the end of forty days Noah opened the hatch he had made in the ark, and he sent out a raven, to see if the waters had lessened on the earth. It flew back and forth until the waters dried off from the earth. Then he sent out a dove, to see if the waters had lessened on the earth. But the dove could find no place to alight and perch, and it returned to him in the ark, for there was water all over the earth. Putting out his hand, he caught the dove and drew it back to him inside the ark. He waited seven days more and again sent the dove out from the ark. In the evening the dove came back to him, and there in its bill was a plucked-off olive leaf! So Noah knew that the waters had lessened on the earth. He waited still another seven days and then released the dove once more; and this time it did not come back.

 

In the six hundred and first year of Noah's life, in the first month, on the first day of the month, the water began to dry up on the earth. Noah then removed the covering of the ark and saw that the surface of the ground was drying up.

 

Noah built an altar to the LORD, and choosing from every clean animal and every clean bird, he offered burnt offerings on the altar. When the LORD smelled the sweet odor, he said to himself: "Never again will I doom the earth because of man since the desires of man's heart are evil from the start; nor will I ever again strike down all living beings, as I have done. As long as the earth lasts, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, Summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 116:12-13, 14-15, 18-19

R. To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.

 

How shall I make a return to the LORD for all the good he has done for me? The cup of salvation I will take up, and I will call upon the name of the LORD.

R. To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.

 

My vows to the LORD I will pay in the presence of all his people. Precious in the eyes of the LORD is the death of his faithful ones.

R. To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.

 

My vows to the LORD I will pay in the presence of all his people, In the courts of the house of the LORD, in your midst, O Jerusalem.

R. To you, Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.

 

Alleluia EPH 1:17-18

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our hearts, that we may know what is the hope that belongs to his call.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 8:22-26

When Jesus and his disciples arrived at Bethsaida, people brought to him a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. Putting spittle on his eyes he laid his hands on the man and asked, "Do you see anything?" Looking up the man replied, "I see people looking like trees and walking." Then he laid hands on the man's eyes a second time and he saw clearly; his sight was restored and he could see everything distinctly. Then he sent him home and said, "Do not even go into the village."

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 8, 6-13. 20-22

Si Noe ay 600 taon nang bumaha sa daigdig. Pumasok nga siya sa malaking barko kasama ang kanyang asawa, mga anak, at mga manugang upang maligtas sa baha. Sa bawat uri ng hayop, malinis o hindi, sa bawat uri ng ibon at maliliit na hayop, ay nagsama siya sa barko ayon sa utos ng Diyos. Pagkaraan ng pitong araw, bumaha nga sa buong daigdig.

 

Si Noe ay 600 taóng gulang na noon. Noong ikalabimpitong araw ng ikalawang buwan, nabuksan ang lahat ng bukal sa ilalim ng lupa. Nabuksan din ang mga bintana ng langit. Bumuhos ang ulan sa loob ng apatnapung araw at apatnapung gabi. Pumasok noon sa barko si Noe at ang kanyang asawa, kasama ang kanilang tatlong anak na lalaki na sina Shem, Ham at Jafet at ang kani-kanilang asawa.

 

At tumaas pa nang halos pitong metro sa taluktok ng mga bundok. Namatay ang bawat may buhay sa lupa—mga ibon, maaamo at maiilap na mga hayop, lahat ng gumagapang sa lupa, at lahat ng tao. Ang lahat ng may hininga sa ibabaw ng lupa ay namatay.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 8, 22-26

Pagdating nila sa Bethsaida, dinala ng ilang tao kay Jesus ang isang bulag at pinakiusapan nilang hipuin niya ang taong ito. Inakay niya ang bulag at dinala ito sa labas ng bayan. Matapos duraan at takpan ang mga mata nito ng kanyang kamay, tinanong ni Jesus, “May nakikita ka ba?”

 

Tumingin ang lalaki at sumagot, “Nakakakita po ako ng mga tao, ngunit para silang mga punongkahoy na naglalakad.”

 

Muling inilagay ni Jesus ang kanyang mga kamay sa mga mata ng bulag. Sa pagkakataong ito, tuminging mabuti ang bulag. Nanumbalik ang kanyang paningin at nakakita na siya nang malinaw. Sinabi sa kanya ni Jesus, “Maaari ka nang umuwi. Huwag ka nang bumalik sa bayan.”

 

 

FEBRUARY 16, 2017

 

Reading 1 GN 9:1-13

God blessed Noah and his sons and said to them: "Be fertile and multiply and fill the earth. Dread fear of you shall come upon all the animals of the earth and all the birds of the air, upon all the creatures that move about on the ground and all the fishes of the sea; into your power they are delivered. Every creature that is alive shall be yours to eat; I give them all to you as I did the green plants. Only flesh with its lifeblood still in it you shall not eat. For your own lifeblood, too, I will demand an accounting: from every animal I will demand it, and from one man in regard to his fellow man I will demand an accounting for human life.

 

If anyone sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; For in the image of God has man been made.

 

Be fertile, then, and multiply; abound on earth and subdue it."

 

God said to Noah and to his sons with him: "See, I am now establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you and with every living creature that was with you: all the birds, and the various tame and wild animals that were with you and came out of the ark. I will establish my covenant with you, that never again shall all bodily creatures be destroyed by the waters of a flood; there shall not be another flood to devastate the earth." God added: "This is the sign that I am giving for all ages to come, of the covenant between me and you and every living creature with you: I set my bow in the clouds to serve as a sign of the covenant between me and the earth."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 102:16-18, 19-21, 29 AND 22-23

R. From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.

 

The nations shall revere your name, O LORD, and all the kings of the earth your glory, When the LORD has rebuilt Zion and appeared in his glory; When he has regarded the prayer of the destitute, and not despised their prayer.

R. From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.

 

Let this be written for the generation to come, and let his future creatures praise the LORD: "The LORD looked down from his holy height, from heaven he beheld the earth, To hear the groaning of the prisoners, to release those doomed to die."

R. From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.

 

The children of your servants shall abide, and their posterity shall continue in your presence, That the name of the LORD may be declared in Zion, and his praise, in Jerusalem, When the peoples gather together, and the kingdoms, to serve the LORD.

R. From heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.

 

Alleluia JN 6:63C, 68C

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of everlasting life.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 8:27-33

Jesus and his disciples set out for the villages of Caesarea Philippi. Along the way he asked his disciples, "Who do people say that I am?" They said in reply, "John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others one of the prophets." And he asked them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter said to him in reply, "You are the Christ." Then he warned them not to tell anyone about him.

 

He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and rise after three days. He spoke this openly. Then Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. At this he turned around and, looking at his disciples, rebuked Peter and said, "Get behind me, Satan. You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do."

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 9, 1-13

Si Noe at ang kanyang mga anak ay binasbasan ng Diyos: “Magkaroon kayo ng maraming anak at punuin ninyo ng inyong supling ang buong daigdig. Matatakot sa inyo ang lahat ng hayop, pati mga ibon, ang lahat ng gumagapang sa lupa at ang mga isda. Ang lahat ng ito ay inilalagay ko sa ilalim ng inyong kapangyarihan. Gaya ng mga halamang luntian na inyong kinakain, lahat ng mga ito'y maaari na ninyong kainin. Huwag lamang ninyong kakainin ang karneng hindi inalisan ng dugo sapagkat nasa dugo ang buhay. Mananagot ang sinumang papatay sa inyo, maging ito'y isang hayop. Pagbabayarin ko ang sinumang taong papatay ng kanyang kapwa.

 

Sinumang pumatay ng kanyang kapwa, buhay ang kabayaran sa kanyang ginawa, sapagkat sa larawan ng Diyos ang tao'y nilikha.

 

“Magkaroon nga kayo ng maraming anak upang manirahan sila sa buong daigdig.”

 

Sinabi ng Diyos kay Noe at sa kanyang mga anak, “Ako'y nakikipagtipan sa inyo ngayon, pati na sa inyong magiging mga anak, gayon din sa lahat ng mga bagay na may buhay sa paligid ninyo—sa mga ibon, pati sa maaamo't maiilap na hayop na kasama ninyo sa barko. Ito ang aking pakikipagtipan sa inyo: Kailanma'y hindi ko na lilipulin sa pamamagitan ng baha ang lahat ng may buhay. Wala nang baha na gugunaw sa daigdig.” Sinabi pa ng Diyos, “Ito ang magiging palatandaan ng walang hanggang tipan na ginagawa ko sa inyo at sa lahat ng hayop: Palilitawin ko sa mga ulap ang aking bahaghari, at iyan ang magiging tanda ng aking pakikipagtipan sa inyo.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 8, 27-33

Si Jesus at ang kanyang mga alagad ay nagpunta sa mga nayon ng Cesarea na sakop ng Filipos. Habang sila'y naglalakbay, tinanong niya ang kanyang mga alagad, “Ano ang sinasabi ng mga tao tungkol sa akin?”

 

Sumagot sila, “Ang sabi po ng ilan, kayo daw po si Juan na Tagapagbautismo; sabi naman ng iba, si Elias daw kayo; may nagsasabi ring isa raw kayo sa mga propeta.”

 

“Ngunit kayo naman, ano ang sinasabi ninyo kung sino ako?” tanong niya.

 

Sumagot si Pedro, “Kayo po ang Cristo.”

 

“Huwag ninyong sasabihin kaninuman kung sino ako,” mahigpit na utos niya sa kanila.

 

Mula noon, itinuro ni Jesus sa mga alagad ang mangyayari sa kanya. Sinabi niya, “Ang Anak ng Tao ay kailangang magdanas ng matinding hirap. Siya'y itatakwil ng mga pinuno ng bayan, ng mga punong pari at ng mga tagapagturo ng Kautusan. Siya'y ipapapatay ngunit muling mabubuhay sa ikatlong araw.” Malinaw na sinabi niya ito sa kanila at dahil dito'y dinala siya ni Pedro sa isang tabi at pinagsabihan. Ngunit tumalikod si Jesus, tumingin sa mga alagad, at sinabi kay Pedro, “Umalis ka sa harap ko, Satanas! Ang iniisip mo'y hindi galing sa Diyos kundi sa tao.”

 

 

FEBRUARY 17, 2017

 

Reading 1 GN 11:1-9

The whole world spoke the same language, using the same words. While the people were migrating in the east, they came upon a valley in the land of Shinar and settled there. They said to one another, "Come, let us mold bricks and harden them with fire." They used bricks for stone, and bitumen for mortar. Then they said, "Come, let us build ourselves a city and a tower with its top in the sky, and so make a name for ourselves; otherwise we shall be scattered all over the earth."

 

The LORD came down to see the city and the tower that they had built. Then the LORD said: "If now, while they are one people, all speaking the same language, they have started to do this, nothing will later stop them from doing whatever they presume to do. Let us then go down and there confuse their language, so that one will not understand what another says." Thus the LORD scattered them from there all over the earth, and they stopped building the city. That is why it was called Babel, because there the LORD confused the speech of all the world. It was from that place that he scattered them all over the earth.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 33:10-11, 12-13, 14-15

R. Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.

 

The LORD brings to nought the plans of nations; he foils the designs of peoples. But the plan of the LORD stands forever; the design of his heart, through all generations.

R. Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.

 

Blessed the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he has chosen for his own inheritance. From heaven the LORD looks down; he sees all mankind.

R. Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.

 

From his fixed throne he beholds all who dwell on the earth, He who fashioned the heart of each, he who knows all their works.

R. Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.

 

Alleluia JN 15:15B

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

I call you my friends, says the Lord, for I have made known to you all that the Father has told me.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 8:34—9:1

Jesus summoned the crowd with his disciples and said to them, "Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and that of the Gospel will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? What could one give in exchange for his life? Whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this faithless and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels."

 

He also said to them, "Amen, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see that the Kingdom of God has come in power."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 11, 1-9

Sa simula'y iisa ang wika at magkakapareho ang mga salitang ginagamit ng lahat ng tao sa daigdig. Sa kanilang pagpapalipat-lipat sa silangan, nakarating sila sa isang kapatagan sa Shinar at doon na nanirahan. Nagkaisa silang gumawa ng maraming tisa at lutuin itong mabuti para tumibay. Tisa ang ginagamit nilang bato at alkitran ang kanilang semento. Ang sabi nila, “Halikayo at magtayo tayo ng isang lunsod na may toreng abot sa langit upang maging tanyag tayo at huwag nang magkawatak-watak sa daigdig.”

 

Bumabâ si Yahweh upang tingnan ang lunsod at ang toreng itinayo ng mga tao. Sinabi niya, “Ngayon ay nagkakaisa silang lahat at iisa ang kanilang wika. Pasimula pa lamang ito ng mga binabalak nilang gawin. Hindi magtatagal at gagawin nila ang anumang kanilang magustuhan. Ang mabuti'y bumabâ tayo at guluhin ang kanilang wika upang hindi sila magkaintindihan.” At ginawa ni Yahweh na ang mga tao ay magkawatak-watak sa buong daigdig, kaya natigil ang pagtatayo ng lunsod. Babel ang itinawag nila sa lunsod na iyon, sapagkat doo'y ginulo ni Yahweh ang wika ng mga tao. At mula roon, nagkawatak-watak ang mga tao sa buong daigdig dahil sa ginawa ni Yahweh.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 8, 34 - 9, 1

Pinalapit ni Jesus ang mga tao at ang kanyang mga alagad, at sinabi sa kanila, “Ang sinumang nagnanais sumunod sa akin ay dapat itakwil ang kanyang sarili, pasanin ang kanyang krus, at sumunod sa akin. Ang sinumang nagnanais na magligtas ng kanyang buhay ay mawawalan nito; ngunit ang mawalan ng kanyang buhay alang-alang sa akin at sa Magandang Balita ay magkakamit nito. Sapagkat ano ba ang mapapala ng isang tao makamtan man niya ang buong daigdig, ngunit mapapahamak naman ang kanyang sarili? Ano ba ang maibabayad ng isang tao para mabawi niya ang kanyang buhay? Kapag ikinahiya ninyo ako at ang aking mga salita sa harap ng mga taksil at makasalanang mga tao sa panahong ito, ikakahiya rin kayo ng Anak ng Tao pagparito niya na taglay ang dakilang kapangyarihan ng kanyang Ama, at kasama ang mga banal na anghel.”

 

Sinabi pa ni Jesus sa kanila, “Tandaan ninyo, may ilan sa inyo rito na hindi mamamatay hangga't hindi nila nakikitang dumarating nang may kapangyarihan ang kaharian ng Diyos.”

 

 

FEBRUARY 18, 2017

 

Reading 1 HEB 11:1-7

Brothers and sisters: Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen. Because of it the ancients were well attested. By faith we understand that the universe was ordered by the word of God, so that what is visible came into being through the invisible. By faith Abel offered to God a sacrifice greater than Cain's. Through this, he was attested to be righteous, God bearing witness to his gifts, and through this, though dead, he still speaks. By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was found no more because God had taken him. Before he was taken up, he was attested to have pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please him, for anyone who approaches God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. By faith Noah, warned about what was not yet seen, with reverence built an ark for the salvation of his household. Through this, he condemned the world and inherited the righteousness that comes through faith.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 145:2-3, 4-5, 10-11

R. I will praise your name for ever, Lord.

 

Every day will I bless you, and I will praise your name forever and ever. Great is the LORD and highly to be praised; his greatness is unsearchable.

R. I will praise your name for ever, Lord.

 

Generation after generation praises your works and proclaims your might. They speak of the splendor of your glorious majesty and tell of your wondrous works.

R. I will praise your name for ever, Lord.

 

Let all your works give you thanks, O LORD, and let your faithful ones bless you. Let them discourse of the glory of your Kingdom and speak of your might.

R. I will praise your name for ever, Lord.

 

Alleluia MK 9:6

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

The heavens were opened and the voice of the Father thundered: This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 9:2-13

Jesus took Peter, James, and John and led them up a high mountain apart by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became dazzling white, such as no fuller on earth could bleach them. Then Elijah appeared to them along with Moses, and they were conversing with Jesus. Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, "Rabbi, it is good that we are here! Let us make three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." He hardly knew what to say, they were so terrified. Then a cloud came, casting a shadow over them; then from the cloud came a voice, "This is my beloved Son. Listen to him." Suddenly, looking around, the disciples no longer saw anyone but Jesus alone with them.

 

As they were coming down from the mountain, he charged them not to relate what they had seen to anyone, except when the Son of Man had risen from the dead. So they kept the matter to themselves, questioning what rising from the dead meant. Then they asked him, "Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?" He told them, "Elijah will indeed come first and restore all things, yet how is it written regarding the Son of Man that he must suffer greatly and be treated with contempt? But I tell you that Elijah has come and they did to him whatever they pleased, as it is written of him."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Hebrew 11, 1-7

Ang pananampalataya ay katiyakan na mangyayari ang ating mga inaasahan, at paninindigan tungkol sa mga bagay na hindi nakikita. Kinalugdan ng Diyos ang mga tao noong unang panahon dahil sa kanilang pananampalataya.

 

Dahil sa pananampalataya, nauunawaan natin na ang sanlibutan ay nilalang sa pamamagitan ng Salita ng Diyos, at ang mga bagay na nakikita ay ginawa mula sa mga hindi nakikita.

 

Dahil sa pananampalataya sa Diyos, si Abel ay nag-alay ng mas mabuting handog kaysa sa inihandog ni Cain. Kaya naman, si Abel ay kinilalang matuwid nang tanggapin ng Diyos ang kanyang handog. Kahit patay na, nagsasalita pa siya sa pamamagitan ng kanyang pananampalataya.

 

Dahil sa pananampalataya, si Enoc ay hindi nakaranas ng kamatayan. Hindi na siya nakita sapagkat kinuha siya ng Diyos. Sinasabi sa kasulatan na si Enoc ay naging kalugud-lugod bago siya kinuha ng Diyos. Hindi maaaring kalugdan ng Diyos ang walang pananampalataya sa kanya, sapagkat ang sinumang lumalapit sa Diyos ay dapat sumampalatayang may Diyos at siya ang nagbibigay ng gantimpala sa mga humahanap sa kanya.

 

Dahil sa pananampalataya, pinakinggan ni Noe ang babala ng Diyos tungkol sa mga bagay na mangyayari ngunit hindi pa niya nakikita. Gumawa siya ng isang malaking barko upang siya at ang kanyang pamilya ay maligtas. Sa pamamagitan nito'y nahatulan ang sanlibutan, ngunit si Noe ay ibinilang na matuwid dahil sa kanyang pananampalataya sa Diyos.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 9, 2-13

Pagkaraan ng anim na araw, umakyat si Jesus sa isang mataas na bundok. Wala siyang isinama roon maliban kina Pedro, Santiago at Juan. Habang sila'y naroroon, nakita ng tatlo na nagbago ang anyo ni Jesus. Nagningning sa kaputian ang kanyang kasuotan; walang sinuman sa mundo ang makapagpapaputi nang gayon. At nakita rin nila roon si Elias at si Moises na nakikipag-usap kay Jesus. Sinabi ni Pedro kay Jesus, “Guro, mabuti po na nandito kami. Magtatayo po kami ng tatlong tolda, isa para sa inyo, isa kay Moises at isa kay Elias.” Dahil sa kanilang matinding takot, hindi niya alam kung ano ang sasabihin niya.

 

Nililiman sila ng makapal na ulap at mula rito'y may isang tinig na nagsabi, “Ito ang pinakamamahal kong Anak. Pakinggan ninyo siya!” Biglang tumingin sa paligid ang mga alagad, ngunit wala silang ibang nakita maliban kay Jesus.

 

Nang sila'y bumababa na mula sa bundok, mahigpit silang pinagbilinan ni Jesus na huwag sasabihin kaninuman ang kanilang nakita hangga't hindi pa muling nabubuhay ang Anak ng Tao. Sinunod nila ang tagubiling ito, ngunit sila'y nagtanungan sa isa't isa kung ano ang kahulugan ng sinabi niyang muling pagkabuhay. At tinanong nila si Jesus, “Bakit po sinasabi ng mga tagapagturo ng Kautusan na dapat munang dumating si Elias?”

 

Tumugon siya, “Darating nga muna si Elias upang ihanda ang lahat ng bagay. Ngunit bakit sinasabi din sa Kasulatan na ang Anak ng Tao'y hahamakin at magtitiis ng maraming hirap? Subalit sinasabi ko sa inyo, dumating na nga si Elias at ginawa sa kanya ng mga tao ang nais nila, ayon sa nasusulat tungkol sa kanya.”

 

 

FEBRUARY 19, 2017

 

Reading 1 LV 19:1-2, 17-18

The LORD said to Moses, "Speak to the whole Israelite community and tell them: Be holy, for I, the LORD, your God, am holy.

 

"You shall not bear hatred for your brother or sister in your heart. Though you may have to reprove your fellow citizen, do not incur sin because of him. Take no revenge and cherish no grudge against any of your people. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 103:1-2, 3-4, 8, 10, 12-13

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

 

Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all my being, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

 

He pardons all your iniquities, heals all your ills. He redeems your life from destruction, crowns you with kindness and compassion.

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

 

Merciful and gracious is the LORD, slow to anger and abounding in kindness. Not according to our sins does he deal with us, nor does he requite us according to our crimes.

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

 

As far as the east is from the west, so far has he put our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him.

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

 

Reading 2 1 COR 3:16-23

Brothers and sisters: Do you not know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy that person; for the temple of God, which you are, is holy.

 

Let no one deceive himself. If any one among you considers himself wise in this age, let him become a fool, so as to become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in the eyes of God, for it is written: God catches the wise in their own ruses, and again: The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.

 

So let no one boast about human beings, for everything belongs to you, Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or the present or the future: all belong to you, and you to Christ, and Christ to God.

 

Alleluia 1 JN 2:5

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Whoever keeps the word of Christ, the love of God is truly perfected in him.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MT 5:38-48

Jesus said to his disciples: "You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on your right cheek, turn the other one as well. If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic, hand over your cloak as well. Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go for two miles. Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow.

 

"You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same? So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Levitico 19, 1-2. 17-18

Sinabi ni Yahweh kay Moises, “Sabihin mo sa buong sambayanan ng Israel, ‘Magpakabanal kayo, sapagkat akong si Yahweh na inyong Diyos ay banal.

 

“Huwag kayong magtatanim ng galit sa iyong kapwa. Sa halip, makipagkasundo ka sa kanya. Sa gayon, hindi ka magkakasala dahil sa kanya. Huwag kang maghihiganti o magtatanim ng galit sa iyong mga kababayan. Ibigin mo ang iyong kapwa gaya ng pag-ibig mo sa iyong sarili. Ako si Yahweh.

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa 1 Corinto 3, 16-23

Hindi ba ninyo alam na kayo'y templo ng Diyos at naninirahan sa inyo ang kanyang Espiritu? Paparusahan ng Diyos ang sinumang magwasak ng templo niya. Sapagkat banal ang templo ng Diyos, at kayo ang templong iyan.

 

Huwag dayain ninuman ang kanyang sarili. Kung may nag-aakalang siya'y matalino ayon sa sanlibutang ito, aminin niyang siya'y mangmang upang maging tunay na marunong. Sapagkat ang karunungan ng sanlibutang ito ay kamangmangan sa paningin ng Diyos. Gaya ng nasusulat, “Ginagamit niya ang katusuhan ng mga marurunong para mabitag sila.” Gayundin, “Batid ng Panginoon na ang iniisip ng marurunong ay walang kabuluhan.” Kaya't huwag ipagmalaki ninuman na siya'y tagasunod ng sinuman, sapagkat ang lahat ay para sa inyo: si Pablo, si Apolos, at si Pedro, ang sanlibutang ito, ang buhay, ang kamatayan, ang kasalukuyan, at ang hinaharap; lahat ng ito'y para sa inyo. At kayo'y para kay Cristo, at si Cristo nama'y para sa Diyos.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 5, 38-48

 

“Narinig ninyong sinabi, ‘Mata sa mata at ngipin sa ngipin.’ Ngunit sinasabi ko sa inyo, huwag kayong gumanti sa masamang tao. Kung sinampal ka sa kanang pisngi, iharap mo rin sa kanya ang kaliwa. Kung isakdal ka ninuman upang makuha ang iyong damit, ibigay mo ito sa kanya pati ang iyong balabal. Kung pilitin ka ng isang kawal na pasanin ang kanyang dala ng isang milya,[d] pasanin mo iyon ng dalawang milya. Bigyan mo ang nanghihingi sa iyo at huwag mong tanggihan ang nanghihiram sa iyo.”

 

“Narinig ninyong sinabi, ‘Ibigin mo ang iyong kapwa at kamuhian mo ang iyong kaaway.’ Ngunit ito naman ang sinasabi ko, ibigin ninyo ang inyong mga kaaway at ipanalangin ninyo ang mga umuusig sa inyo, upang kayo'y maging tunay na mga anak ng inyong Ama na nasa langit. Sapagkat pinasisikat niya ang araw sa mabubuti gayon din sa masasama, at nagpapaulan siya sa mga matuwid at sa mga di-matuwid.

 

“Kung ang mga nagmamahal sa inyo ang siya lamang ninyong mamahalin, anong gantimpala ang inyong maaasahan? Hindi ba't ginagawa rin iyan ng mga maniningil ng buwis? At kung ang mga kapatid lamang ninyo ang inyong binabati, ano ang ginagawa ninyong higit kaysa iba? Hindi ba't ginagawa rin iyan ng mga Hentil? Kaya maging ganap kayo, gaya ng inyong Ama na nasa langit.”

 

 

FEBRUARY 20, 2017

Reading 1 SIR 1:1-10

All wisdom comes from the LORD and with him it remains forever, and is before all time The sand of the seashore, the drops of rain, the days of eternity: who can number these? Heaven's height, earth's breadth, the depths of the abyss: who can explore these? Before all things else wisdom was created; and prudent understanding, from eternity. The word of God on high is the fountain of wisdom and her ways are everlasting. To whom has wisdom's root been revealed? Who knows her subtleties? To whom has the discipline of wisdom been revealed? And who has understood the multiplicity of her ways? There is but one, wise and truly awe-inspiring, seated upon his throne: There is but one, Most High all-powerful creator-king and truly awe-inspiring one, seated upon his throne and he is the God of dominion. It is the LORD; he created her through the Holy Spirit, has seen her and taken note of her. He has poured her forth upon all his works, upon every living thing according to his bounty; he has lavished her upon his friends.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 93:1AB, 1CD-2, 5

R. The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.

 

The LORD is king, in splendor robed; robed is the LORD and girt about with strength.

R. The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.

 

And he has made the world firm, not to be moved. Your throne stands firm from of old; from everlasting you are, O LORD.

R. The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.

 

Your decrees are worthy of trust indeed: holiness befits your house, O LORD, for length of days.

R. The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.

 

Alleluia 2 TM 1:10

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Our Savior Jesus Christ has destroyed death and brought life to light through the Gospel.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 9:14-29

As Jesus came down from the mountain with Peter, James, John and approached the other disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and scribes arguing with them. Immediately on seeing him, the whole crowd was utterly amazed. They ran up to him and greeted him. He asked them, "What are you arguing about with them?" Someone from the crowd answered him, "Teacher, I have brought to you my son possessed by a mute spirit. Wherever it seizes him, it throws him down; he foams at the mouth, grinds his teeth, and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive it out, but they were unable to do so." He said to them in reply, "O faithless generation, how long will I be with you? How long will I endure you? Bring him to me." They brought the boy to him. And when he saw him, the spirit immediately threw the boy into convulsions. As he fell to the ground, he began to roll around and foam at the mouth. Then he questioned his father, "How long has this been happening to him?" He replied, "Since childhood. It has often thrown him into fire and into water to kill him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us." Jesus said to him, "'If you can!' Everything is possible to one who has faith." Then the boy's father cried out, "I do believe, help my unbelief!" Jesus, on seeing a crowd rapidly gathering, rebuked the unclean spirit and said to it, "Mute and deaf spirit, I command you: come out of him and never enter him again!" Shouting and throwing the boy into convulsions, it came out. He became like a corpse, which caused many to say, "He is dead!" But Jesus took him by the hand, raised him, and he stood up. When he entered the house, his disciples asked him in private, "Why could we not drive the spirit out?" He said to them, "This kind can only come out through prayer."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Sirac 1, 1-10

Mula sa Panginoon ang lahat ng karunungan, at iyon ay taglay niya magpakailanman.

 

Sino ang makakabilang ng buhangin sa dagat, o ng patak ng ulan, o ng mga araw, o sa panahong walang pasimula at walang katapusan?

 

Sino ang makakasukat sa taas ng langit, o sa lawak ng lupa? Sino ang makakaarok sa karagatan at sino ang makakasaliksik sa Karunungan?

 

Bago pa likhain ang alinmang nilalang, nalikha na ang Karunungan, at ang tunay na pagkaunawa, bago pa nagsimula ang mga panahon.

 

Kanino ipinahayag ang simula ng Karunungan, at sinong nakakaalam ng kanyang pamamaraan?

 

Iisa lamang ang talagang marunong; dapat tayong gumalang na may paghanga sa harap ng kanyang luklukan.

 

Ang Panginoon ang lumikha ng Karunungan, kinilala niya ang kahalagahan nito at ibinuhos niya ito sa lahat ng kanyang nilalang.

 

Binahaginan niya ng Karunungan ang lahat ng tao, ngunit higit na masagana ang kaloob niya sa mga umiibig sa kanya.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 9, 14-29

Nang magbalik sila, naratnan nila ang ibang mga alagad na napapaligiran ng napakaraming tao gayundin ng mga tagapagturo ng Kautusan na nakikipagtalo sa kanila. Nang makita si Jesus ng mga tao, nagulat sila at patakbo nilang sinalubong at binati siya. Tinanong ni Jesus ang kanyang mga alagad, “Ano ang inyong pinagtatalunan?”

 

Sumagot ang isa mula sa karamihan, “Guro, dinala ko po rito sa inyo ang aking anak na lalaki dahil siya'y sinasapian ng masamang espiritu at hindi makapagsalita. Tuwing siya'y sinasapian nito, siya'y ibinubuwal; bumubula ang kanyang bibig, nagngangalit ang kanyang mga ngipin, at siya'y naninigas. Hiniling ko po sa inyong mga alagad na palayasin nila ang masamang espiritu ngunit hindi nila ito mapalayas.”

 

Sinabi ni Jesus sa kanila, “Lahing walang pananampalataya! Hanggang kailan pa ba ako mananatiling kasama ninyo? Hanggang kailan ko kayo pagtitiisan? Dalhin ninyo rito ang bata!”

 

Dinala nga nila ang bata sa kanya. Nang si Jesus ay makita ng espiritu, biglang pinapangisay nito ang bata. Ang bata'y natumba sa lupa at gumulung-gulong na bumubula ang bibig. “Kailan pa siya nagkaganyan?” tanong ni Jesus sa ama.

 

“Simula pa po noong maliit siya!” tugon niya. “Gusto po siyang patayin ng masamang espiritu. Madalas inihahagis po siya nito sa apoy at itinatapon siya sa tubig. Subalit kung may magagawa kayo, kami po ay kaawaan at tulungan ninyo.”

 

“Kung may magagawa ako?” tanong ni Jesus. “Mangyayari ang lahat sa sinumang may pananampalataya.”

 

Agad namang sumagot ang ama ng bata, “Naniniwala po ako! Tulungan po ninyo akong madagdagan pa ang aking pananampalataya.”

 

Nang makita ni Jesus na dumadami ang mga tao, sinabi niya sa masamang espiritu, “Inuutusan kita, espiritu ng pagkapipi at pagkabingi, lumabas ka sa bata at huwag ka nang babalik sa kanya!”

 

Nagsisigaw ang masamang espiritu, pinangisay ang bata at saka lumabas. Nagmistulang bangkay ang bata kaya't sinabi ng marami, “Patay na siya!” 27 Ngunit ang bata'y hinawakan ni Jesus sa kamay, ibinangon, at ito'y tumayo.

 

Nang pumasok si Jesus sa bahay, palihim siyang tinanong ng kanyang mga alagad, “Bakit po hindi namin napalayas ang masamang espiritung iyon?”

 

Sumagot si Jesus, “Mapapalayas lamang ang ganitong uri ng espiritu sa pamamagitan ng panalangin.”

 

FEBRUARY 21, 2017

 

Reading 1 SIR 2:1-11

My son, when you come to serve the LORD, stand in justice and fear, prepare yourself for trials. Be sincere of heart and steadfast, incline your ear and receive the word of understanding, undisturbed in time of adversity. Wait on God, with patience, cling to him, forsake him not; thus will you be wise in all your ways. Accept whatever befalls you, when sorrowful, be steadfast, and in crushing misfortune be patient; For in fire gold and silver are tested, and worthy people in the crucible of humiliation. Trust God and God will help you; trust in him, and he will direct your way; keep his fear and grow old therein.

 

You who fear the LORD, wait for his mercy, turn not away lest you fall. You who fear the LORD, trust him, and your reward will not be lost. You who fear the LORD, hope for good things, for lasting joy and mercy. You who fear the LORD, love him, and your hearts will be enlightened. Study the generations long past and understand; has anyone hoped in the LORD and been disappointed? Has anyone persevered in his commandments and been forsaken? has anyone called upon him and been rebuffed? Compassionate and merciful is the LORD; he forgives sins, he saves in time of trouble and he is a protector to all who seek him in truth.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 37:3-4, 18-19, 27-28, 39-40

R. Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.

 

Trust in the LORD and do good, that you may dwell in the land and be fed in security. Take delight in the LORD, and he will grant you your heart's requests.

R. Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.

 

The LORD watches over the lives of the wholehearted; their inheritance lasts forever. They are not put to shame in an evil time; in days of famine they have plenty.

R. Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.

 

Turn from evil and do good, that you may abide forever; For the LORD loves what is right, and forsakes not his faithful ones.

R. Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.

 

The salvation of the just is from the LORD; he is their refuge in time of distress. And the LORD helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him.

R. Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.

 

Alleluia GAL 6:14

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

May I never boast except in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 9:30-37

Jesus and his disciples left from there and began a journey through Galilee, but he did not wish anyone to know about it. He was teaching his disciples and telling them, "The Son of Man is to be handed over to men and they will kill him, and three days after his death the Son of Man will rise." But they did not understand the saying, and they were afraid to question him.

 

They came to Capernaum and, once inside the house, he began to ask them, "What were you arguing about on the way?" But they remained silent. For they had been discussing among themselves on the way who was the greatest. Then he sat down, called the Twelve, and said to them, "If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all." Taking a child, he placed it in their midst, and putting his arms around it, he said to them, "Whoever receives one child such as this in my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but the One who sent me."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Sirac 2, 1-11

Anak, kung nais mong maglingkod sa Panginoon, humanda ka sa mga pagsubok.

 

Maging tapat ka at magpakatatag, huwag kang masisiraan ng loob sa panahon ng kasawian.

 

Manalig ka sa Panginoon at huwag kang lalayo sa kanya, upang ikaw ay parangalan sa katapusan ng iyong buhay.

 

Tanggapin ang anumang ipagkaloob niya sa iyo, tiisin mo ang kabiguan kahit ano ang mangyari.

 

Kung ang ginto ay dinadalisay sa apoy, ang banal ay sinusubok ng Panginoon sa apoy ng paghamak.

 

Magtiwala ka at tutulungan ka niya, mamuhay ka sa katuwiran at umasa sa kanya.

 

Kayong may paggalang sa Panginoon, maghintay kayo ng kanyang habag; huwag kayong lalayo sa kanya nang hindi kayo mapahamak.

 

Kayong may paggalang sa Panginoon, magtiwala kayo sa kanya, at siguradong tatanggap kayo ng gantimpala.

 

Kayong lahat na may paggalang sa Panginoon, umasa kayo sa kanyang pagpapala. Asahan ninyo ang kanyang pagkahabag at kagalakang walang hanggan.

 

Tingnan ninyo ang nangyari sa ating mga ninuno: May nagtiwala ba sa Panginoon at nabigo? May nanatili bang naglilingkod sa kanya na kanyang pinabayaan? May tumawag ba sa kanya na hindi niya dininig?

 

Sapagkat maawain at mapagpatawad ang Panginoon, pinatatawad niya tayo sa ating kasalanan at inililigtas sa kagipitan.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 9,30-37

Pag-alis nila roon, nagdaan sila sa Galilea. Ayaw niyang malaman ng mga tao ang kanyang kinaroroonan, dahil tinuturuan niya noon ang kanyang mga alagad na ang Anak ng Tao ay ipagkakanulo sa mga taong papatay sa kanya, ngunit siya'y mabubuhay muli pagkatapos ng tatlong araw. Ngunit hindi nila naunawaan ang kanyang sinabi, at natatakot din naman silang magtanong sa kanya.

 

Dumating sila sa Capernaum. Nang sila'y nasa bahay na, tinanong ni Jesus ang kanyang mga alagad, “Ano ang pinagtatalunan ninyo sa daan?” Hindi sila makasagot sapagkat ang pinagtatalunan nila'y kung sino sa kanila ang pinakadakila.

 

Naupo si Jesus, tinawag ang Labindalawa at sinabi sa kanila, “Ang sinumang nagnanais maging una ay dapat maging huli sa lahat, at maging lingkod ng lahat.” Tinawag niya ang isang bata at pinatayo sa gitna nila. Pagkatapos, kinalong niya ito at sinabi sa kanyang mga alagad, “Ang sinumang tumatanggap sa isang batang tulad nito alang-alang sa aking pangalan ay ako ang tinatanggap; at ang sinumang tumatanggap sa akin ay hindi lamang ako ang kanyang tinatanggap kundi pati na rin ang nagsugo sa akin.”

 

 

FEBRUARY 22, 2017

 

Reading 1 1 PT 5:1-4

Beloved: I exhort the presbyters among you, as a fellow presbyter and witness to the sufferings of Christ and one who has a share in the glory to be revealed. Tend the flock of God in your midst, overseeing not by constraint but willingly, as God would have it, not for shameful profit but eagerly. Do not lord it over those assigned to you, but be examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd is revealed, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 23:1-3A, 4, 5, 6

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. In verdant pastures he gives me repose; Beside restful waters he leads me; he refreshes my soul.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side With your rod and your staff that give me courage.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

You spread the table before me in the sight of my foes; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

Only goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life; And I shall dwell in the house of the LORD for years to come.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

Alleluia MT 16:18

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church; the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MT 16:13-19

When Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi he asked his disciples, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" They replied, "Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter said in reply, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Jesus said to him in reply, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa 1 Pedro 5, 1-4

Sa matatandang namumuno sa inyo, nananawagan ako bilang isa ring matandang pinuno ng iglesya na tulad ninyo, bilang saksi sa mga paghihirap ni Cristo at sapagkat makakabahagi ako sa karangalang malapit nang ipahayag. Pangalagaan ninyo ang kawan ng Diyos na ipinagkatiwala sa inyo. Gawin ninyo ito nang maluwag sa loob at hindi napipilitan lamang. Iyan ang nais ng Diyos. Gampanan ninyo ang inyong tungkulin, hindi dahil sa kabayaran kundi dahil gusto ninyong makapaglingkod, hindi bilang panginoon ng inyong nasasakupan, kundi maging halimbawa kayo sa kawan. At pagparito ng Pinunong Pastol ay tatanggap kayo ng maluwalhating koronang di kukupas kailanman.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 16, 13-19

Nang dumating si Jesus sa bayan ng Cesarea ng Filipos, tinanong niya ang kanyang mga alagad, “Sino raw ang Anak ng Tao, ayon sa mga tao?” At sumagot sila, “Ang sabi po ng ilan, kayo si Juan na Tagapagbautismo. Sabi po naman ng iba, kayo si Elias. At may nagsasabi pong kayo si Jeremias, o isa sa mga propeta.” Tinanong ulit sila ni Jesus, “Ngunit para sa inyo, sino ako?” Sumagot si Simon Pedro, “Kayo po ang Cristo, ang Anak ng Diyos na buháy.” Sinabi sa kanya ni Jesus, “Pinagpala ka, Simon na anak ni Jonas! Sapagkat ang katotohanang ito'y hindi inihayag sa iyo ng sinumang tao kundi ng aking Ama na nasa langit. At sinasabi ko sa iyo, ikaw ay Pedro, at sa ibabaw ng batong ito ay itatayo ko ang aking iglesya at ang kapangyarihan ng kamatayan ay hindi magtatagumpay laban sa kanya. Ibibigay ko sa iyo ang mga susi ng kaharian ng langit. Ang ipagbawal mo sa lupa ay ipagbabawal sa langit, at ang ipahintulot mo sa lupa ay ipahihintulot din sa langit.” At mahigpit niyang iniutos sa kanyang mga alagad na huwag sabihin kaninuman na siya nga ang Cristo.

 

 

 

FEBRUARY 23, 2017

 

Reading 1 SIR 5:1-8

Rely not on your wealth; say not: "I have the power." Rely not on your strength in following the desires of your heart. Say not: "Who can prevail against me?" or, "Who will subdue me for my deeds?" for God will surely exact the punishment. Say not: "I have sinned, yet what has befallen me?" for the Most High bides his time. Of forgiveness be not overconfident, adding sin upon sin. Say not: "Great is his mercy; my many sins he will forgive." For mercy and anger alike are with him; upon the wicked alights his wrath. Delay not your conversion to the LORD, put it not off from day to day. For suddenly his wrath flames forth; at the time of vengeance you will be destroyed. Rely not upon deceitful wealth, for it will be no help on the day of wrath.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 1:1-2, 3, 4 AND 6

R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

 

Blessed the man who follows not the counsel of the wicked Nor walks in the way of sinners, nor sits in the company of the insolent, But delights in the law of the LORD and meditates on his law day and night.

R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

 

He is like a tree planted near running water, That yields its fruit in due season, and whose leaves never fade. Whatever he does, prospers.

R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

 

Not so the wicked, not so; they are like chaff which the wind drives away. For the LORD watches over the way of the just, but the way of the wicked vanishes.

R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

 

Alleluia 1 THES 2:13

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Receive the word of God, not as the word of men, but as it truly is, the word of God.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 9:41-50

Jesus said to his disciples: "Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ, amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward.

 

"Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were put around his neck and he were thrown into the sea. If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed than with two hands to go into Gehenna, into the unquenchable fire. And if your foot causes you to sin, cut if off. It is better for you to enter into life crippled than with two feet to be thrown into Gehenna. And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. Better for you to enter into the Kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into Gehenna, where their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.

 

"Everyone will be salted with fire. Salt is good, but if salt becomes insipid, with what will you restore its flavor? Keep salt in yourselves and you will have peace with one another."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Sirac 5, 1-8

Huwag kang manalig sa iyong kayamanan at huwag mong sabihing, “Wala na akong kailangan.”

 

Huwag kang padadala sa labis na hangarin, na makamtan lamang ang gusto'y gagawin ang lahat.

 

Huwag mong sabihing wala kang kinikilalang kapangyarihan, sapagkat darating ang panahong paparusahan ka ng Panginoon.

 

Huwag mo ring sabihin, “Wala namang nangyari sa akin, matapos akong magkasala!” Dahil ang Panginoon ay hindi madaling magalit.

 

Huwag kang masanay sa paggawa ng kasalanan dahil sa pag-asang lagi ka niyang patatawarin.

 

Huwag mong sabihin, “Walang katapusan ang kanyang habag. Patatawarin niya ako, gaano man karami ang aking kasalanan.” Sapagkat kung siya'y marunong maawa, marunong din siyang magalit, at ang kanyang galit ay nakatuon sa mga makasalanan.

 

Magbalik-loob ka na agad sa Panginoon; huwag mong ipagpabukas ang pakikipagkasundo sa kanya, sapagkat biglang darating ang araw ng paghihiganti, at mamamatay ka sa kanyang pagpaparusa.

 

Huwag kang manalig sa kinamkam mong kayamanan, sapagkat hindi mo ito papakinabangan sa araw ng kapighatian.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 9, 41-50

Tandaan ninyo: ang sinumang magbigay sa inyo ng isang basong tubig dahil sa kayo'y tagasunod ko ay tiyak na tatanggap ng gantimpala.”

 

“Mabuti pa sa isang tao ang siya'y bitinan sa leeg ng isang malaking gilingang-bato at itapon sa dagat kaysa maging sanhi ng pagkakasala ng isa sa maliliit na ito na nananalig sa akin. Kung ang kamay mo ang nagiging sanhi ng iyong pagkakasala, putulin mo ito! Mas mabuti pa ang pumasok sa buhay na walang hanggan na putol ang isang kamay, kaysa may dalawang kamay na mapunta ka sa impiyerno, sa apoy na hindi namamatay. Doo'y hindi namamatay ang mga uod na kumakain sa kanila at ang apoy. Kung ang paa mo ang nagiging sanhi ng iyong pagkakasala, putulin mo ito! Mabuti pa ang pumasok sa buhay na walang hanggan na putol ang isang paa, kaysa may dalawang paa na mapunta ka sa impiyerno. Doo'y hindi namamatay ang mga uod na kumakain sa kanila at ang apoy. At kung ang isang mata mo ay nagiging sanhi ng iyong pagkakasala, dukitin mo ito! Mabuti pang pumasok ka sa kaharian ng Diyos na iisa lang ang mata, kaysa may dalawang mata ngunit itatapon ka naman sa impiyerno. Doo'y hindi namamatay ang mga uod na kumakain sa kanila,

at ang apoy ay hindi napapatay.

 

“Sapagkat ang bawat isa'y dadalisayin sa apoy at ang bawat handog sa Diyos ay lalagyan ng asin. Mabuti ang asin, ngunit kung ang asin ay mawalan na ng alat, paano pa ito mapapaalat muli? Taglayin ninyo ang katangian ng asin, at mamuhay kayong may kapayapaan sa isa't isa.”

 

 

 

FEBRUARY 24, 2017

 

Reading 1 SIR 6:5-17

A kind mouth multiplies friends and appeases enemies, and gracious lips prompt friendly greetings. Let your acquaintances be many, but one in a thousand your confidant. When you gain a friend, first test him, and be not too ready to trust him. For one sort is a friend when it suits him, but he will not be with you in time of distress. Another is a friend who becomes an enemy, and tells of the quarrel to your shame. Another is a friend, a boon companion, who will not be with you when sorrow comes. When things go well, he is your other self, and lords it over your servants; But if you are brought low, he turns against you and avoids meeting you. Keep away from your enemies; be on your guard with your friends. A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; he who finds one finds a treasure. A faithful friend is beyond price, no sum can balance his worth. A faithful friend is a life-saving remedy, such as he who fears God finds; For he who fears God behaves accordingly, and his friend will be like himself.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 119:12, 16, 18, 27, 34, 35

R. Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.

 

Blessed are you, O LORD; teach me your statutes.

R. Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.

 

In your statutes I will delight; I will not forget your words.

R. Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.

 

Open my eyes, that I may consider the wonders of your law.

R. Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.

 

Make me understand the way of your precepts, and I will meditate on your wondrous deeds.

R. Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.

 

Give me discernment, that I may observe your law and keep it with all my heart.

R. Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.

 

Lead me in the path of your commands, for in it I delight.

R. Guide me, Lord, in the way of your commands.

 

Alleluia JN 17:17B, 17A

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Your word, O Lord, is truth; consecrate us in the truth.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 10:1-12

Jesus came into the district of Judea and across the Jordan. Again crowds gathered around him and, as was his custom, he again taught them. The Pharisees approached him and asked, "Is it lawful for a husband to divorce his wife?" They were testing him. He said to them in reply, "What did Moses command you?" They replied, "Moses permitted a husband to write a bill of divorce and dismiss her." But Jesus told them, "Because of the hardness of your hearts he wrote you this commandment. But from the beginning of creation, God made them male and female. For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. So they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, no human being must separate." In the house the disciples again questioned Jesus about this. He said to them, "Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her; and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Sirac 6, 5-17

Ang magiliw na tinig ay nakakaakit ng maraming kaibigan, at ang matamis na pananalita'y susuklian ng magandang sagot.

 

Makipagbatian ka sa maraming tao, ngunit isa lamang sa sanlibo ang hihingan mo ng payo.

 

Bago ka makipagkaibigan kaninuman, subukin mo muna siya, at huwag mo siyang pagtitiwalaan agad.

 

Sapagkat may mga kaibigang mapagsamantala na di mo maaasahan sa oras ng pangangailangan.

 

May kaibigang hindi nagtatagal at nagiging kaaway mo, at ibubunyag pa niya ang pagkakagalit ninyo, palalabasin ka pa niyang kahiya-hiya.

 

Mayroon ding kaibigang kasalu-salo mo sa pagkain, ngunit pababayaan ka sa oras ng kagipitan.

 

Sa kasaganaan, didikit siya sa iyo na parang anino, uutusan niya pati ang mga katulong mo;

ngunit sa kasawia'y pababayaan ka niya, pagtataguan ka, at di mo na siya makikita.

 

Lumayo ka sa kaaway, at mag-ingat ka sa kaibigan.

 

Ang matapat na kaibiga'y parang matibay na kanlungan, kapag nakatagpo ka ng tulad niya'y para kang nakahukay ng kayamanan.

 

Walang kasinghalaga ang matapat na kaibigan; hindi siya matutumbasan ng gaano mang salapi.

 

Ang matapat na kaibiga'y parang gamot na nagbibigay-buhay, at siya'y matatagpuan lamang ng mga may paggalang sa Panginoon.

 

Ang may paggalang sa Panginoo'y makakatagpo ng tapat na kaibigan, at ang mga kaibigan niya'y tulad niyang may paggalang sa Panginoon.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 10, 1-12

Pag-alis doon, si Jesus ay nagpunta sa lupain ng Judea at tumawid sa ibayo ng Ilog Jordan. Muling dumagsa ang maraming tao at tulad ng kanyang palaging ginagawa, sila'y kanyang tinuruan.

 

May ilang Pariseong gustong subukin si Jesus; kaya't lumapit sila at nagtanong, “Naaayon po ba sa Kautusan na hiwalayan ng lalaki ang kanyang asawa?”

 

Sumagot siya, “Ano ba ang utos ni Moises sa inyo?”

 

Sumagot naman sila, “Ipinahintulot po ni Moises na ang lalaki ay gumawa ng kasulatan ng paghihiwalay bago niya hiwalayan at palayasin ang kanyang asawa.”

 

Ngunit sinabi ni Jesus, “Ginawa ni Moises ang utos na iyon dahil sa katigasan ng inyong ulo. Subalit simula pa nang likhain ng Diyos ang sanlibutan, nilalang niya ang tao na lalaki at babae. ‘Dahil dito'y iiwan ng lalaki ang kanyang ama at ina, magsasama sila ng kanyang asawa at ang dalawa'y magiging isa.’ Hindi na sila dalawa kundi isa. Ang pinagsama ng Diyos ay huwag paghiwalayin ng tao.”

 

Pagdating sa bahay, ang mga alagad naman ang nagtanong kay Jesus tungkol sa bagay na ito. Sinabi niya sa kanila, “Kapag hiniwalayan ng isang lalaki ang kanyang asawa at mag-asawa ng iba, siya ay nagkakasala ng pangangalunya sa kanyang asawa. Gayon din naman, ang babaing humiwalay sa kanyang asawa at mag-asawa ng iba ay nagkakasala rin ng pangangalunya.”

 

 

FEBRUARY 25, 2017

 

Reading 1 SIR 17:1-15

God from the earth created man, and in his own image he made him. He makes man return to earth again, and endows him with a strength of his own. Limited days of life he gives him, with power over all things else on earth. He puts the fear of him in all flesh, and gives him rule over beasts and birds. He created for them counsel, and a tongue and eyes and ears, and an inventive heart, and filled them with the discipline of understanding. He created in them knowledge of the spirit; With wisdom he fills their heart; good and evil he shows them. He put the fear of himself upon their hearts, and showed them his mighty works, That they might glory in the wonder of his deeds and praise his holy name. He has set before them knowledge, a law of life as their inheritance; An everlasting covenant he has made with them, his justice and his judgments he has revealed to them. His majestic glory their eyes beheld, his glorious voice their ears heard. He says to them, "Avoid all evil"; each of them he gives precepts about his fellow men. Their ways are ever known to him, they cannot be hidden from his eyes. Over every nation he places a ruler, but God's own portion is Israel. All their actions are clear as the sun to him, his eyes are ever upon their ways.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 103:13-14, 15-16, 17-18

R. The Lord's kindness is everlasting to those who fear him.

 

As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him, For he knows how we are formed; he remembers that we are dust.

R. The Lord's kindness is everlasting to those who fear him.

 

Man's days are like those of grass; like a flower of the field he blooms; The wind sweeps over him and he is gone, and his place knows him no more.

R. The Lord's kindness is everlasting to those who fear him.

 

But the kindness of the LORD is from eternity to eternity toward those who fear him, And his justice toward children's children among those who keep his covenant.

R. The Lord's kindness is everlasting to those who fear him.

 

Alleluia SEE MT 11:25

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 10:13-16

People were bringing children to Jesus that he might touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this he became indignant and said to them, "Let the children come to me; do not prevent them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Amen, I say to you, whoever does not accept the Kingdom of God like a child will not enter it." Then he embraced the children and blessed them, placing his hands on them.

 

 

Unang Balita Sirac 17, 1-15

Nilikha ng Panginoon ang tao mula sa alabok, at ito'y sa alabok din uuwi.

 

Binigyan niya ang tao ng maikling buhay, ngunit ipinailalim sa kanyang kapangyarihan ang lahat ng bagay sa ibabaw ng lupa.

 

Pinagkalooban niya sila ng kalakasang tulad ng sa kanya, at ginawa silang kawangis niya.

 

Niloob ng Panginoon na ang lahat ng may buhay ay matakot sa tao, at maghari ito sa mga hayop sa lupa at ibon sa himpapawid.

 

Binigyan niya ang tao ng dila, mga mata at tainga, at kapangyarihang mag-isip at magpasya.

 

Pinuspos pa niya ng kaalaman at karunungan, at tinuruang kumilala ng mabuti at masama.

 

Pinaliwanag ng Panginoon ang isipan ng mga tao, at ipinakilala sa kanila ang kagandahan ng kanyang nilalang,

upang papurihan nila ang kanyang pangalan at ipahayag ang kadakilaan ng kanyang mga gawa.

 

Ibinigay niya sa tao ang kanyang mga aral, at ipinamana sa kanila ang Kautusang nagbibigay-buhay.

 

Nakipagtipan siya sa mga tao magpakailanman, at ipinahayag sa kanila ang kanyang mga kautusan.

 

Sinabi niya sa kanila: “Mag-ingat kayo sa lahat ng masama;” at iniutos sa kanila ang tungkulin ng bawat isa sa kanyang kapwa.

 

Nakikita ng Panginoon ang lahat ng ginagawa ng tao, at walang nalilingid sa kanya na anuman.

 

Magandang Balita Marcos 10, 13-16

May mga taong nagdala ng mga bata kay Jesus upang hilinging ipatong niya sa mga ito ang kanyang kamay, ngunit sinaway sila ng mga alagad. Nagalit si Jesus nang makita ito at sinabi sa kanila, “Hayaan ninyong lumapit sa akin ang mga bata, at huwag ninyo silang pagbawalan, sapagkat ang mga katulad nila ang mapapabilang sa kaharian ng Diyos. Tandaan ninyo: ang sinumang hindi tumatanggap sa kaharian ng Diyos, tulad sa pagtanggap ng isang bata, ay hinding-hindi makakapasok sa kaharian ng Diyos.” Kinalong ni Jesus ang mga bata, ipinatong ang kanyang mga kamay sa kanila at binasbasan sila.

 

 

FEBRUARY 26, 2017

 

Reading 1 IS 49:14-15

Zion said, "The LORD has forsaken me; my LORD has forgotten me." Can a mother forget her infant, be without tenderness for the child of her womb? Even should she forget, I will never forget you.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 62:2-3, 6-7, 8-9

R. Rest in God alone, my soul.

 

Only in God is my soul at rest; from him comes my salvation. He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be disturbed at all.

R. Rest in God alone, my soul.

 

Only in God be at rest, my soul, for from him comes my hope. He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be disturbed.

R. Rest in God alone, my soul.

 

With God is my safety and my glory, he is the rock of my strength; my refuge is in God. Trust in him at all times, O my people! Pour out your hearts before him.

R. Rest in God alone, my soul.

 

Reading 2 1 COR 4:1-5

Brothers and sisters: Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Now it is of course required of stewards that they be found trustworthy. It does not concern me in the least that I be judged by you or any human tribunal; I do not even pass judgment on myself; I am not conscious of anything against me, but I do not thereby stand acquitted; the one who judges me is the Lord. Therefore do not make any judgment before the appointed time, until the Lord comes, for he will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will manifest the motives of our hearts, and then everyone will receive praise from God.

 

Alleluia HB 4:12

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

The word of God is living and effective; discerning reflections and thoughts of the heart.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MT 6:24-34

Jesus said to his disciples: "No one can serve two masters. He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.

 

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they? Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span? Why are you anxious about clothes? Learn from the way the wild flowers grow. They do not work or spin. But I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was clothed like one of them. If God so clothes the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith? So do not worry and say, 'What are we to eat?' or 'What are we to drink?'or 'What are we to wear?' All these things the pagans seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides. Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Isaias 49, 14-15

Ngunit ang sabi ng mga taga-Jerusalem,

 

“Pinabayaan na tayo ni Yahweh.

 

Nakalimutan na niya tayo.”

 

Ang sagot ni Yahweh,

 

“Malilimot kaya ng ina ang sarili niyang anak?

 

Hindi kaya niya mahalin ang sanggol niyang iniluwal?

 

Kung mayroon mang inang lumilimot sa kanyang anak,

 

hindi ko kayo kakalimutan kahit sandali.

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa 1 Corinto 4, 1-5

Dapat ninyong kilalanin na kami'y mga lingkod ni Cristo at katiwala ng mga hiwaga ng Diyos. Ang katiwala'y kailangang maging tapat sa kanyang panginoon. Walang anuman sa akin kung ako'y hatulan ninyo, o ng alinmang hukuman ng tao; ako man ay hindi humahatol sa aking sarili. Malinis ang aking budhi, subalit hindi iyon katibayan na ako'y walang kasalanan. Ang Panginoon ang humahatol sa akin. Kaya't huwag kayong humatol nang wala pa sa panahon; maghintay kayo sa pagdating ng Panginoon. Siya ang maglalantad ng mga bagay na ngayo'y natatago sa kadiliman at maghahayag ng mga lihim na hangarin ng bawat isa. Sa panahong iyon, bawat isa'y bibigyan ng Diyos ng angkop na parangal.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 6, 24-34

“Walang aliping makakapaglingkod sa dalawang panginoon, sapagkat kapopootan niya ang isa at iibigin ang ikalawa, paglilingkuran nang tapat ang isa at hahamakin ang ikalawa. Hindi ninyo maaaring paglingkuran nang pareho ang Diyos at ang kayamanan.

 

“Kaya't sinasabi ko sa inyo, huwag kayong mabalisa tungkol sa inyong kakainin at sa [inyong iinumin][d] upang kayo'y mabuhay o kaya'y tungkol sa susuutin ng inyong katawan. Hindi ba't ang buhay ay higit na mahalaga kaysa pagkain at ang katawan kaysa damit? Masdan ninyo ang mga ibon. Hindi sila nagtatanim ni umaani man o kaya'y nagtitipon sa kamalig, ngunit pinapakain sila ng inyong Ama na nasa langit. Hindi ba't higit kayong mahalaga kaysa mga ibon? Sino sa inyo ang makakapagpahaba ng kanyang buhay nang kahit isang oras sa pamamagitan ng kanyang pagkabalisa?

 

“At bakit kayo nababalisa tungkol sa pananamit? Isipin ninyo kung paano tumutubo ang mga bulaklak sa parang; hindi sila nagtatrabaho ni gumagawa ng damit. Ngunit sinasabi ko sa inyo, kahit si Solomon sa kanyang karangyaan ay hindi nakapagdamit nang singganda ng isa sa mga bulaklak na ito. Kung dinadamitan ng Diyos ang damo sa parang, na buháy ngayon, at kinabukasan ay iginagatong sa kalan, kayo pa kaya? Kay liit ng inyong pananampalataya sa kanya!

 

“Kaya't huwag kayong mag-alala na baka kayo kapusin sa pagkain, inumin o damit. Hindi ba't ang mga Hentil ang nababahala tungkol sa mga bagay na ito? Alam na ng inyong Ama na nasa langit na kailangan ninyo ang lahat ng ito. Ngunit higit sa lahat ay bigyang-halaga ninyo ang kaharian ng Diyos at ang pamumuhay nang ayon sa kanyang kalooban, at ibibigay niya sa inyo ang lahat ng mga bagay na ito.

 

“Kaya nga, huwag ninyong alalahanin ang bukas; sapagkat ang bukas ang mag-aalala sa sarili niya. Sapat na ang inyong mga suliranin sa bawat araw.”

 

 

 

FEBRUARY 27, 2017

 

Reading 1 SIR 17:20-24

To the penitent God provides a way back, he encourages those who are losing hope and has chosen for them the lot of truth. Return to him and give up sin, pray to the LORD and make your offenses few. Turn again to the Most High and away from your sin, hate intensely what he loathes, and know the justice and judgments of God, Stand firm in the way set before you, in prayer to the Most High God.

 

Who in the nether world can glorify the Most High in place of the living who offer their praise? Dwell no longer in the error of the ungodly, but offer your praise before death. No more can the dead give praise than those who have never lived; You who are alive and well shall praise and glorify God in his mercies. How great the mercy of the LORD, his forgiveness of those who return to him!

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 32:1-2, 5, 6, 7

R. Let the just exult and rejoice in the Lord.

 

Blessed is he whose fault is taken away, whose sin is covered. Blessed the man to whom the LORD imputes not guilt, in whose spirit there is no guile.

R. Let the just exult and rejoice in the Lord.

 

Then I acknowledged my sin to you, my guilt I covered not. I said, "I confess my faults to the LORD," and you took away the guilt of my sin.

R. Let the just exult and rejoice in the Lord.

 

For this shall every faithful man pray to you in time of stress. Though deep waters overflow, they shall not reach him.

R. Let the just exult and rejoice in the Lord.

 

You are my shelter; from distress you will preserve me; with glad cries of freedom you will ring me round.

R. Let the just exult and rejoice in the Lord.

 

Alleluia 2 COR 8:9

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Jesus Christ became poor although he was rich, so that by his poverty you might become rich.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 10:17-27

As Jesus was setting out on a journey, a man ran up, knelt down before him, and asked him, "Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" Jesus answered him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; you shall not defraud; honor your father and your mother." He replied and said to him, "Teacher, all of these I have observed from my youth." Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said to him, "You are lacking in one thing. Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me." At that statement, his face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.

 

Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the Kingdom of God!" The disciples were amazed at his words. So Jesus again said to them in reply, "Children, how hard it is to enter the Kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for one who is rich to enter the Kingdom of God." They were exceedingly astonished and said among themselves, "Then who can be saved?" Jesus looked at them and said, "For men it is impossible, but not for God. All things are possible for God."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Sirac 17, 20-24

Hindi maitatago sa kanya ang kanilang kasamaan, at nakikita niya ang lahat nilang kasalanan.

 

Parang singsing na pantatak sa paningin ng Panginoon ang pagkakawanggawa ng tao, pinahahalagahan niyang parang balintataw ng kanyang mga mata ang kanilang kabutihang asal.

 

Darating ang araw na siya'y maghihiganti laban sa masasama, at babagsak sa kanila ang parusang nararapat sa kanila.

 

Ngunit lagi niyang tinatanggap ang nagbabalik-loob, at inaaliw ang nawawalan ng pag-asa.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 10, 17-27

Nang siya'y paalis na, may isang lalaking patakbong lumapit kay Jesus, lumuhod sa harapan niya at nagtanong, “Mabuting Guro, ano po ba ang dapat kong gawin upang makamtan ko ang buhay na walang hanggan?”

 

Sumagot si Jesus, “Bakit mo ako tinatawag na mabuti? Walang mabuti kundi ang Diyos lamang. Alam mo ang mga utos ng Diyos, ‘Huwag kang papatay; huwag kang mangangalunya; huwag kang magnanakaw; huwag kang sasaksi nang walang katotohanan; huwag kang mandaraya; igalang mo ang iyong ama at ina.’”

 

Sumagot ang lalaki, “Guro, mula pa sa aking pagkabata ay tinupad ko na ang lahat ng mga iyan.”

 

Magiliw siyang tiningnan ni Jesus at sinabi, “May isang bagay pa na dapat mong gawin. Ipagbili mo ang iyong mga ari-arian at ipamigay mo sa mahihirap, at magkakaroon ka ng kayamanan sa langit. Pagkatapos, bumalik ka at sumunod ka sa akin.” Nang marinig ito ng lalaki, siya'y nanlumo at malungkot na umalis sapagkat siya'y lubhang napakayaman.

 

Tiningnan ni Jesus ang mga nasa paligid niya at sinabi sa mga alagad, “Tunay ngang napakahirap para sa mayayaman ang makapasok sa kaharian ng Diyos!” Nagtaka ang mga alagad sa sinabi niyang ito. Ngunit muling sinabi ni Jesus, “Mga anak, talagang napakahirap [para sa mga mayayaman na][b] makapasok sa kaharian ng Diyos! Mas madali pang dumaan ang kamelyo sa butas ng karayom kaysa isang mayaman na pumasok sa kaharian ng Diyos.”

 

Lalong nagtaka ang mga alagad, kaya't nagtanong sila, “Kung gayon, sino pa kaya ang maliligtas?”

 

Tiningnan sila ni Jesus at sinabi sa kanila, “Hindi ito kayang gawin ng tao, ngunit hindi ito imposible sa Diyos. Sapagkat ang lahat ng bagay ay kayang gawin ng Diyos.”

 

 

FEBRUARY 28, 2017

 

Reading 1 SIR 35:1-12

To keep the law is a great oblation, and he who observes the commandments sacrifices a peace offering. In works of charity one offers fine flour, and when he gives alms he presents his sacrifice of praise. To refrain from evil pleases the LORD, and to avoid injustice is an atonement. Appear not before the LORD empty-handed, for all that you offer is in fulfillment of the precepts. The just one's offering enriches the altar and rises as a sweet odor before the Most High. The just one's sacrifice is most pleasing, nor will it ever be forgotten. In a generous spirit pay homage to the LORD, be not sparing of freewill gifts. With each contribution show a cheerful countenance, and pay your tithes in a spirit of joy. Give to the Most High as he has given to you, generously, according to your means.

 

For the LORD is one who always repays, and he will give back to you sevenfold. But offer no bribes, these he does not accept! Trust not in sacrifice of the fruits of extortion. For he is a God of justice, who knows no favorites.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 50:5-6, 7-8, 14 AND 23

R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

 

"Gather my faithful ones before me, those who have made a covenant with me by sacrifice." And the heavens proclaim his justice; for God himself is the judge.

R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

 

"Hear, my people, and I will speak; Israel, I will testify against you; God, your God, am I. Not for your sacrifices do I rebuke you, for your burnt offerings are before me always."

R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

 

"Offer to God praise as your sacrifice and fulfill your vows to the Most High. He that offers praise as a sacrifice glorifies me; and to him that goes the right way I will show the salvation of God."

R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

 

Alleluia SEE MT 11:25

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 10:28-31

Peter began to say to Jesus, 'We have given up everything and followed you." Jesus said, "Amen, I say to you, there is no one who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands for my sake and for the sake of the Gospel who will not receive a hundred times more now in this present age: houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and eternal life in the age to come. But many that are first will be last, and the last will be first."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Sirac 35, 1-12

Para nang nag-alay ng maraming handog ang sumusunod sa Kautusan:  sapagkat ang sumusunod sa mga utos ay para nang nag-alay ng mga handog na pangkapayapaan;

 

Ang tumatanaw ng utang na loob ay para nang naghandog ng mainam na harina, at ang nagkakawanggawa ay para nang nag-alay ng handog ng pasasalamat.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 10, 28-31

At nagsalita si Pedro, “Tingnan po ninyo, iniwan na namin ang lahat at kami'y sumunod sa inyo.”

 

Sumagot si Jesus, “Tandaan ninyo: ang sinumang nag-iwan ng kanyang tahanan, o mga kapatid, mga magulang, mga anak, mga lupain, dahil sa akin at sa Magandang Balita, ay tatanggap sa buhay na ito ng isandaang ulit pa ng mga iyon; mga bahay, mga kapatid, mga ina, mga anak, at mga lupain, ngunit may kalakip na pag-uusig. At sa panahong darating, magtatamo siya ng buhay na walang hanggan. Ngunit maraming nauuna na mahuhuli, at maraming nahúhulí ang mauuna.”

 

 

MARCH 2, 2017

Reading 1 DT 30:15-20

Moses said to the people: "Today I have set before you life and prosperity, death and doom. If you obey the commandments of the LORD, your God, which I enjoin on you today, loving him, and walking in his ways, and keeping his commandments, statutes and decrees, you will live and grow numerous, and the LORD, your God, will bless you in the land you are entering to occupy. If, however, you turn away your hearts and will not listen, but are led astray and adore and serve other gods, I tell you now that you will certainly perish; you will not have a long life on the land that you are crossing the Jordan to enter and occupy. I call heaven and earth today to witness against you: I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. Choose life, then, that you and your descendants may live, by loving the LORD, your God, heeding his voice, and holding fast to him. For that will mean life for you, a long life for you to live on the land that the LORD swore he would give to your fathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 1:1-2, 3, 4 AND 6

R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

 

Blessed the man who follows not the counsel of the wicked Nor walks in the way of sinners, nor sits in the company of the insolent, But delights in the law of the LORD and meditates on his law day and night.

R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

 

He is like a tree planted near running water, That yields its fruit in due season, and whose leaves never fade. Whatever he does, prospers.

R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

 

Not so the wicked, not so; they are like chaff which the wind drives away. For the LORD watches over the way of the just, but the way of the wicked vanishes.

R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

 

Verse Before The Gospel MT 4:17

Repent, says the Lord; the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.

 

Gospel LK 9:22-25

Jesus said to his disciples: "The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised."

 

Then he said to all, "If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world yet lose or forfeit himself?"

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Deuteronomio 30,15-20

“Binibigyan ko kayo ngayon ng pagpipilian: buhay o kamatayan; kasaganaan o kahirapan; kapag sinunod ninyo ang mga utos na ibinibigay ko sa inyo ngayon mula kay Yahweh na inyong Diyos, at kung mahal ninyo siya at ginagawa ang kanyang kagustuhan, pagpapalain niya kayo sa lupaing ibibigay niya sa inyo. Bibigyan niya kayo ng mahabang buhay at gagawing isang malaking bansa. Ngunit kapag tumalikod kayo at ayaw nang makinig sa kanya, sa halip ay naglingkod sa ibang mga diyos, ngayon pa'y sinasabi ko sa inyong malilipol kayo. Hindi kayo magtatagal sa lupaing sasakupin ninyo sa ibayo ng Jordan. Saksi ko ang langit at ang lupa na ngayo'y inilahad ko sa inyo ang buhay o kamatayan, at ang pagpapala o sumpa. Kaya, piliin ninyo ang buhay para kayo at ang inyong lahi ay mabuhay nang matagal. Ibigin ninyo si Yahweh, sundin siya at manatiling tapat sa kanya upang kayo at ang inyong salinlahi ay mabuhay nang matagal sa lupaing ipinangako niya sa ninuno ninyong sina Abraham, Isaac at Jacob.”

 

Mabuting Balita Lucas 9,22-25

Sinabi pa niya sa kanila, “Ang Anak ng Tao'y dapat magdanas ng matinding hirap. Itatakwil siya ng mga pinuno ng bayan, ng mga punong pari at ng mga tagapagturo ng Kautusan. Siya ay papatayin ngunit sa ikatlong araw ay muli siyang mabubuhay.”

 

At sinabi niya sa kanilang lahat, “Ang sinumang nagnanais sumunod sa akin ay kinakailangang itakwil ang kanyang sarili, pasanin araw-araw ang kanyang krus, at sumunod sa akin. Ang naghahangad na magligtas ng kanyang buhay ay mawawalan nito, ngunit ang mawalan ng kanyang buhay alang-alang sa akin ay magkakamit nito. Ano nga ang mapapala ng tao, makamtan man niya ang buong daigdig kung mapapahamak naman at mawawala ang kanyang buhay?

 

 

MARCH 3, 2017

 

Reading 1 IS 58:1-9A

Thus says the Lord GOD: Cry out full-throated and unsparingly, lift up your voice like a trumpet blast; Tell my people their wickedness, and the house of Jacob their sins. They seek me day after day, and desire to know my ways, Like a nation that has done what is just and not abandoned the law of their God; They ask me to declare what is due them, pleased to gain access to God. "Why do we fast, and you do not see it? afflict ourselves, and you take no note of it?"

 

Lo, on your fast day you carry out your own pursuits, and drive all your laborers. Yes, your fast ends in quarreling and fighting, striking with wicked claw. Would that today you might fast so as to make your voice heard on high! Is this the manner of fasting I wish, of keeping a day of penance: That a man bow his head like a reed and lie in sackcloth and ashes? Do you call this a fast, a day acceptable to the LORD? This, rather, is the fasting that I wish: releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke; Setting free the oppressed, breaking every yoke; Sharing your bread with the hungry, sheltering the oppressed and the homeless; Clothing the naked when you see them, and not turning your back on your own. Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your wound shall quickly be healed; Your vindication shall go before you, and the glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer, you shall cry for help, and he will say: Here I am!

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 51:3-4, 5-6AB, 18-19

R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

 

Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness; in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense. Thoroughly wash me from my guilt and of my sin cleanse me.

R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

 

For I acknowledge my offense, and my sin is before me always: "Against you only have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight."

R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

 

For you are not pleased with sacrifices; should I offer a burnt offering, you would not accept it. My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit; a heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

 

Alleluia SEE AM 5:14

Seek good and not evil so that you may live, and the Lord will be with you.

 

Gospel MT 9:14-15

The disciples of John approached Jesus and said, "Why do we and the Pharisees fast much, but your disciples do not fast?" Jesus answered them, "Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Isaias 58,1-9

Sinabi ni Yahweh, “Sumigaw ka nang malakas na malakas;

 

itaas mo ang iyong tinig gaya ng trumpeta.

 

Ang kasalanan ng bayan ko sa kanila'y ihayag.

 

Sinasangguni nila ako sa araw-araw,

 

tinatanong nila ako kung paano sila mamumuhay.

 

Kung kumilos sila ay parang matuwid,

 

at hindi sumusuway sa mga tuntuning ibinigay ng kanilang Diyos.

 

Humihingi sila sa akin ng matuwid na pasya;

 

nais nila'y maging malapit sa Diyos.”

 

Tanong ng mga tao, “Bakit hindi mo pansin ang pag-aayuno namin?

 

Bakit walang halaga sa iyo kung kami ma'y magpakumbaba?”

 

Sagot ni Yahweh, “Pansariling kapakanan pa rin ang pangunahing layunin ninyo sa pag-aayuno,

 

at habang nag-aayuno'y patuloy ninyong inaapi ang mga manggagawa.

 

Ang pag-aayuno ninyo'y humahantong lamang sa karahasan,

 

kayo'y nagkakagalit at naglalaban-laban.

 

Hindi tunay ang pag-aayunong ginagawa ninyo ngayon,

 

kaya tiyak na hindi ko papakinggan, ang inyong mga dalangin sa akin.

 

Ganyan ba ang pag-aayunong aking kaluluguran?

 

Iyan ba ang araw na talagang nagpapakumbaba ang mga tao?

 

Hinihiling ko ba na yumuko kayong tulad ng damong hinihipan ng hangin,

 

o mahiga kayo sa sako at abo?

 

Pag-aayuno na ba ang tawag ninyo diyan,

 

isang araw na nakalulugod kay Yahweh?

 

“Ganitong pag-aayuno ang gusto kong gawin ninyo:

 

Palayain ninyo ang mga di-makatarungang ipinabilanggo;

 

kalagin ninyo ang tanikala ng inyong mga inalipin.

 

Palayain ninyo ang mga inaapi,

 

at baliin ang mga pamatok ng mga alipin.

 

Ang mga nagugutom ay inyong pakainin,

 

ang mga walang tirahan ay inyong patuluyin.

 

Ang mga walang maisuot ay inyong bigyan ng mga damit.

 

At sa mga nangangailangang mga kamag-anak ay huwag kayong magkakait.

 

Kung magkagayon, sisikat ang liwanag sa inyo, at matutulad kayo sa bukang-liwayway,

 

hindi magtatagal at manunumbalik ang inyong kalusugan.

 

Mahahayag sa inyong unahan ang mabubuti ninyong gawa,

 

at sa inyong hulihan ay papatnubayan kayo ng kaluwalhatian ni Yahweh.

 

Sa araw na iyon, diringgin ni Yahweh ang inyong dalangin;

 

kapag kayo'y humingi ng tulong, sasabihin niya, ‘Naririto ako.’

 

Magandang Balita Mateo 9,14-15

Lumapit kay Jesus ang mga alagad ni Juan na Tagapagbautismo, at siya'y tinanong, “Kami po ay madalas mag-ayuno, gayundin ang mga Pariseo, ngunit bakit hindi po nag-aayuno ang inyong mga alagad?” Sumagot siya, “Dapat bang malungkot ang mga panauhin sa kasalan habang kasama pa nila ang lalaking ikinasal? Kapag wala na ito, saka pa lamang sila mag-aayuno.

 

 

MARCH 4, 2017

 

Reading 1 IS 58:9B-14

Thus says the LORD: If you remove from your midst oppression, false accusation and malicious speech; If you bestow your bread on the hungry and satisfy the afflicted; Then light shall rise for you in the darkness, and the gloom shall become for you like midday; Then the LORD will guide you always and give you plenty even on the parched land. He will renew your strength, and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring whose water never fails. The ancient ruins shall be rebuilt for your sake, and the foundations from ages past you shall raise up; "Repairer of the breach," they shall call you, "Restorer of ruined homesteads."

 

If you hold back your foot on the sabbath from following your own pursuits on my holy day; If you call the sabbath a delight, and the LORD's holy day honorable; If you honor it by not following your ways, seeking your own interests, or speaking with maliceB Then you shall delight in the LORD, and I will make you ride on the heights of the earth; I will nourish you with the heritage of Jacob, your father, for the mouth of the LORD has spoken.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 86:1-2, 3-4, 5-6

R. Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth.

 

Incline your ear, O LORD; answer me, for I am afflicted and poor. Keep my life, for I am devoted to you; save your servant who trusts in you. You are my God.

R. Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth.

 

Have mercy on me, O Lord, for to you I call all the day. Gladden the soul of your servant, for to you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.

R. Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth.

 

For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in kindness to all who call upon you. Hearken, O LORD, to my prayer and attend to the sound of my pleading.

R. Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth.

 

Verse Before The Gospel EZ 33:11

I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked man, says the Lord, but rather in his conversion, that he may live.

 

Gospel LK 5:27-32

Jesus saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the customs post. He said to him, "Follow me." And leaving everything behind, he got up and followed him. Then Levi gave a great banquet for him in his house, and a large crowd of tax collectors and others were at table with them. The Pharisees and their scribes complained to his disciples, saying, "Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?" Jesus said to them in reply, "Those who are healthy do not need a physician, but the sick do. I have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Isaias 58,9-14

“Kapag itinakwil ninyo ang pang-aapi,

 

maling pagbibintang at pagsisinungaling;

 

kapag ang nagugutom ay kusang-loob ninyong pakakainin,

 

at tutulungan ang mahihirap,

 

sisikat ang liwanag sa inyong nasa kadiliman,

 

at ang inyong kapanglawan ay magliliwanag gaya ng sa katanghaliang-tapat.

 

Patuloy kayong papatnubayan ni Yahweh

 

at ibibigay ang pangangailangan sa gitna ng disyerto.

 

Palalakasin niyang muli ang inyong mga buto.

 

At magiging tulad kayo ng isang hardin,

 

na binubukalan ng masaganang tubig,

 

o isang batis na hindi natutuyo.

 

Muli ninyong itatayo ang kutang gumuho,

 

at itatatag ito sa dating pundasyon.

 

Makikilala kayo bilang tagapagtayo ng mga nawasak na pader,

 

mga tagapagtatag ng bagong pamayanan.”

 

Sinabi pa ni Yahweh, “Inyong igagalang ang takdang Araw ng Pamamahinga,

 

huwag kayong gagawa para sa pansariling kapakanan sa araw na banal.

 

Sa araw na ito'y mamamahinga kayo at huwag maglalakbay,

 

o gagawa o mag-uusap ng tungkol sa mga bagay na walang kabuluhan.

 

At kung magkagayon, madarama ninyo ang kagalakan ng paglilingkod sa akin.

 

Bibigyan ko kayo ng karangalan sa harap ng buong daigdig;

 

at tatamasahin ninyo ang kaligayahan habang naninirahan sa lupaing ibinigay ko sa ninuno ninyong si Jacob.

 

Mangyayari ito sapagkat akong si Yahweh ang nagsabi nito.”

 

Magandang Balita Lucas 5,27-32

Pagkatapos nito'y lumabas si Jesus at nakita niya si Levi, isang maniningil ng buwis, na nakaupo sa tanggapan ng buwis. Sinabi sa kanya ni Jesus, “Sumunod ka sa akin.” Tumayo nga si Levi, iniwan ang lahat, at sumunod kay Jesus.

 

Si Jesus ay hinandugan ni Levi ng isang malaking handaan sa kanyang bahay. Kasalo niya roon ang maraming maniningil ng buwis at iba pang mga tao. Kaya't nagbulung-bulungan ang mga Pariseo at ang mga kasamahan nilang tagapagturo ng Kautusan. Sinabi nila sa mga alagad ni Jesus, “Bakit kayo kumakain at umiinom na kasalo ng mga maniningil ng buwis at ng mga makasalanan?”

 

Sinagot sila ni Jesus, “Hindi nangangailangan ng manggagamot ang walang sakit kundi ang maysakit. Hindi ako naparito upang tawagin ang mga matuwid, kundi ang mga makasalanan upang sila'y magsisi.”

 

 

MARCH 5, 2017

 

Reading 1 GN 2:7-9; 3:1-7

The LORD God formed man out of the clay of the ground and blew into his nostrils the breath of life, and so man became a living being.

 

Then the LORD God planted a garden in Eden, in the east, and placed there the man whom he had formed. Out of the ground the LORD God made various trees grow that were delightful to look at and good for food, with the tree of life in the middle of the garden and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

 

Now the serpent was the most cunning of all the animals that the LORD God had made. The serpent asked the woman, "Did God really tell you not to eat from any of the trees in the garden?" The woman answered the serpent: "We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden; it is only about the fruit of the tree in the middle of the garden that God said, 'You shall not eat it or even touch it, lest you die.'" But the serpent said to the woman: "You certainly will not die! No, God knows well that the moment you eat of it your eyes will be opened and you will be like gods who know what is good and what is evil." The woman saw that the tree was good for food, pleasing to the eyes, and desirable for gaining wisdom. So she took some of its fruit and ate it; and she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized that they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made loincloths for themselves.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 51:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 17

R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

 

Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness; in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense. Thoroughly wash me from my guilt and of my sin cleanse me.

R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

 

For I acknowledge my offense, and my sin is before me always: "Against you only have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight."

R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

 

A clean heart create for me, O God, and a steadfast spirit renew within me. Cast me not out from your presence, and your Holy Spirit take not from me.

R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

 

Give me back the joy of your salvation, and a willing spirit sustain in me. O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall proclaim your praise.

R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

 

Reading 2 ROM 5:12-19

Brothers and sisters: Through one man sin entered the world, and through sin, death, and thus death came to all men, inasmuch as all sinned— for up to the time of the law, sin was in the world, though sin is not accounted when there is no law. But death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who did not sin after the pattern of the trespass of Adam, who is the type of the one who was to come. But the gift is not like the transgression. For if by the transgression of the one, the many died, how much more did the grace of God and the gracious gift of the one man Jesus Christ overflow for the many. And the gift is not like the result of the one who sinned. For after one sin there was the judgment that brought condemnation; but the gift, after many transgressions, brought acquittal. For if, by the transgression of the one, death came to reign through that one, how much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of justification come to reign in life through the one Jesus Christ. In conclusion, just as through one transgression condemnation came upon all, so, through one righteous act, acquittal and life came to all. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so, through the obedience of the one, the many will be made righteous.

 

Verse Before The Gospel MT 4:4B

One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.

 

Gospel MT 4:1-11

At that time Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. He fasted for forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was hungry. The tempter approached and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command that these stones become loaves of bread." He said in reply, "It is written: One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God."

 

Then the devil took him to the holy city, and made him stand on the parapet of the temple, and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down. For it is written: He will command his angels concerning you and with their hands they will support you, lest you dash your foot against a stone." Jesus answered him, "Again it is written, You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test." Then the devil took him up to a very high mountain, and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in their magnificence, and he said to him, "All these I shall give to you, if you will prostrate yourself and worship me." At this, Jesus said to him, "Get away, Satan! It is written: The Lord, your God, shall you worship and him alone shall you serve."

 

Then the devil left him and, behold, angels came and ministered to him.

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 2,7-9. 3,1-7

Pagkatapos, ginawa ng Panginoong Yahweh ang tao[b] mula sa alabok, hiningahan niya sa ilong, at nagkaroon ito ng buhay.

 

Gumawa ang Panginoong Yahweh ng isang halamanan sa Eden, sa dakong silangan, at doon dinala ang taong kanyang nilalang. Pinatubo niya roon ang lahat ng uri ng punongkahoy na magagandang pagmasdan at masasarap ang bunga. Sa gitna ng halamanan ay naroon ang punongkahoy na nagbibigay-buhay, at gayundin ang punongkahoy na nagbibigay-kaalaman tungkol sa mabuti at masama.

 

Ika-lawang Pagbasa Roma 5,12-19

Ang kasalanan ay pumasok sa sanlibutan sa pamamagitan ng isang tao, at ang kamatayan ay pumasok sa pamamagitan ng kasalanan. Dahil dito, lumaganap ang kamatayan sa lahat ng tao sapagkat ang lahat ay nagkasala. Nasa sanlibutan na ang kasalanan bago ibigay ang Kautusan, ngunit kung walang kautusan, ang kasalanan ay hindi itinuturing na kasalanan. Gayunman, naghari pa rin ang kamatayan mula kay Adan hanggang kay Moises, pati sa mga taong hindi nagkasala tulad ng pagsuway ni Adan sa utos ng Diyos.

 

Si Adan ay anyo ng isang darating. Subalit magkaiba ang dalawang ito dahil ang walang bayad na kaloob ng Diyos ay hindi katulad ng kasalanan ni Adan. Totoong maraming tao ang namatay dahil sa kasalanan ng isang tao. Ngunit ang kagandahang-loob ng Diyos ay mas dakila, gayundin ang kanyang walang bayad na kaloob sa maraming tao sa pamamagitan ng kagandahang-loob ng isang tao, si Jesu-Cristo. Ang kaloob na ito ay hindi katulad ng ibinunga ng pagsuway ni Adan. Sapagkat hatol na kaparusahan ang idinulot matapos na magawâ ang isang pagsuway, subalit kaloob na nagpapawalang-sala naman ang idinulot matapos magawâ ang maraming pagsuway. Sa pamamagitan ng pagsuway ng isang tao, naghari ang kamatayan. Ngunit sa pamamagitan din ng isang tao, si Jesu-Cristo, ang mga taong pinagpala nang sagana at itinuring na matuwid ng Diyos ay maghahari sa buhay.

 

At kung paanong ang pagsuway ng isang tao ay nagdulot ng kaparusahan sa lahat, ang matuwid na ginawa rin ng isang tao ay nagdudulot ng pagpapawalang-sala at buhay sa lahat. Sapagkat kung naging makasalanan ang marami dahil sa pagsuway ng isang tao, marami rin ang mapapawalang-sala dahil sa pagsunod ng isang tao.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 4,1-11

Pagkatapos, si Jesus ay dinala ng Espiritu sa ilang upang tuksuhin ng diyablo. Siya'y nag-ayuno sa loob ng apatnapung araw at apatnapung gabi kaya't siya'y nagutom. Dumating ang diyablo at sinabi sa kanya, “Kung ikaw ang Anak ng Diyos, gawin mo ngang tinapay ang mga batong ito.” Ngunit sumagot si Jesus, “Nasusulat,

 

‘Hindi lamang sa tinapay nabubuhay ang tao, kundi sa bawat salitang nagmumula sa bibig ng Diyos.’”

 

Pagkatapos, dinala siya ng diyablo sa Jerusalem, ang banal na lungsod, at pinatayo sa taluktok ng Templo. Sinabi nito sa kanya, “Kung ikaw ang Anak ng Diyos, magpatihulog ka, sapagkat nasusulat,

 

‘Sa kanyang mga anghel, ika'y itatagubilin, at sa kanilang mga kamay, ika'y aalalayan, nang sa mga bato, paa mo'y hindi masaktan.’”

 

Ngunit sumagot si Jesus, “Nasusulat din naman, ‘Huwag mong susubukin ang Panginoon mong Diyos.’”

 

Pagkatapos, dinala siya ng diyablo sa isang napakataas na bundok at ipinakita sa kanya ang lahat ng kaharian sa daigdig at ang karangyaan ng mga ito. Sinabi ng diyablo sa kanya, “Ibibigay ko sa iyo ang lahat ng ito kung magpapatirapa ka at sasamba sa akin.”

 

Kaya't sumagot si Jesus, “Lumayas ka Satanas! Sapagkat nasusulat,

 

‘Ang Panginoon mong Diyos ang dapat mong sambahin. At siya lamang ang dapat mong paglingkuran.’”

 

Pagkatapos, iniwan na siya ng diyablo. Dumating naman ang mga anghel at siya'y pinaglingkuran nila.

 

 

MARCH 6, 2017

Reading 1 LV 19:1-2, 11-18

The LORD said to Moses, "Speak to the whole assembly of the children of Israel and tell them: Be holy, for I, the LORD, your God, am holy.

 

"You shall not steal. You shall not lie or speak falsely to one another. You shall not swear falsely by my name, thus profaning the name of your God. I am the LORD.

 

"You shall not defraud or rob your neighbor. You shall not withhold overnight the wages of your day laborer. You shall not curse the deaf, or put a stumbling block in front of the blind, but you shall fear your God. I am the LORD.

 

"You shall not act dishonestly in rendering judgment. Show neither partiality to the weak nor deference to the mighty, but judge your fellow men justly. You shall not go about spreading slander among your kin; nor shall you stand by idly when your neighbor's life is at stake. I am the LORD.

 

"You shall not bear hatred for your brother in your heart. Though you may have to reprove him, do not incur sin because of him. Take no revenge and cherish no grudge against your fellow countrymen. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 19:8, 9, 10, 15

R. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.

 

The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul. The decree of the LORD is trustworthy, giving wisdom to the simple.

R. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.

 

The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart. The command of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eye.

R. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.

 

The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever; The ordinances of the LORD are true, all of them just.

R. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.

 

Let the words of my mouth and the thought of my heart find favor before you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.

R. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.

 

Verse Before The Gospel 2 COR 6:2B

Behold, now is a very acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.

 

Gospel MT 25:31-46

Jesus said to his disciples: "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit upon his glorious throne, and all the nations will be assembled before him. And he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the king will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.' Then the righteous will answer him and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?' And the king will say to them in reply, 'Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.' Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you accursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, a stranger and you gave me no welcome, naked and you gave me no clothing, ill and in prison, and you did not care for me.' Then they will answer and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison, and not minister to your needs?' He will answer them, 'Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.' And these will go off to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Levitico 19,1-2. 11-18

Sinabi ni Yahweh kay Moises, “Sabihin mo sa buong sambayanan ng Israel, ‘Magpakabanal kayo, sapagkat akong si Yahweh na inyong Diyos ay banal.

 

“Huwag kayong magnanakaw, mandaraya, o magsisinungaling. Huwag kayong manunumpa sa aking pangalan kung ito ay walang katotohanan. Iyon ay paglapastangan sa pangalan ng inyong Diyos. Ako si Yahweh.

 

“Huwag ninyong dadayain o pagnanakawan ang inyong kapwa. Huwag ninyong ipagpapabukas ang pagpapasweldo sa inyong mga manggagawa. Huwag ninyong mumurahin ang mga bingi at lalagyan ng katitisuran ang daraanan ng mga bulag. Matakot kayo sa Diyos. Ako si Yahweh.

 

“Huwag kayong hahatol nang hindi makatarungan. Huwag ninyong kikilingan ang mahihirap o kaya'y katatakutan ang mayayaman. Humatol kayo batay sa katuwiran. Huwag kayong magkakalat ng anumang nakakasira ng puri ng inyong kapwa, ni sasaksi laban sa inyong kapwa upang ipahamak lamang siya. Ako si Yahweh.

 

“Huwag kayong magtatanim ng galit sa iyong kapwa. Sa halip, makipagkasundo ka sa kanya. Sa gayon, hindi ka magkakasala dahil sa kanya. Huwag kang maghihiganti o magtatanim ng galit sa iyong mga kababayan. Ibigin mo ang iyong kapwa gaya ng pag-ibig mo sa iyong sarili. Ako si Yahweh.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 25,31-46

“Sa maluwalhating pagdating ng Anak ng Tao, kasama ang lahat ng anghel, uupo siya sa kanyang trono ng kaluwalhatian. Tipunin sa harapan niya ang lahat ng mga bansa at sila'y kanyang pagbubukud-bukurin, tulad ng ginagawa ng pastol sa mga tupa at mga kambing. Ilalagay niya sa kanyang kanan ang mga tupa, at sa kaliwa naman ang mga kambing. Kaya't sasabihin ng hari sa mga nasa kanan niya, ‘Halikayo, mga pinagpala ng aking Ama! Pumasok kayo at tanggapin ang kahariang inihanda para sa inyo mula pa nang likhain ang daigdig. Sapagkat ako'y nagugutom at ako'y inyong pinakain; ako'y nauuhaw at ako'y inyong pinainom. Ako'y isang dayuhan at inyong pinatuloy. Ako'y hubad at ako'y inyong dinamitan, nagkasakit at inyong dinalaw, nabilanggo at inyong pinuntahan.’

 

“Sasagot ang mga matuwid, ‘Panginoon, kailan po namin kayo nakitang nagutom at aming pinakain, o nauhaw at aming pinainom? Kailan po kayo naging dayuhan at aming pinatuloy, o kaya'y hubad at aming dinamitan? At kailan po namin kayo nakitang nagkasakit o nabilanggo at kayo'y aming dinalaw?’

 

“Sasabihin ng Hari, ‘Tandaan ninyo, nang gawin ninyo ito sa pinakahamak sa mga kapatid kong ito, sa akin ninyo ito ginawa.’

 

“Sasabihin naman niya sa mga nasa kaliwa, ‘Lumayo kayo sa harapan ko, kayong mga isinumpa! Doon kayo sa apoy na di namamatay na inihanda para sa diyablo at sa kanyang mga kampon. Sapagkat hindi ninyo ako pinakain noong ako'y nagugutom; hindi ninyo ako pinainom noong ako'y nauuhaw. Hindi ninyo ako pinatuloy noong ako'y isang dayuhan. Hindi ninyo ako dinamitan noong ako'y hubad. Hindi ninyo ako dinalaw noong ako'y may sakit at noong ako'y nasa bilangguan.’

 

“At sasagot din sila, ‘Panginoon, kailan po namin kayo nakitang nagutom, nauhaw, walang matuluyan, hubad, may sakit, o nasa bilangguan, na hindi namin kayo tinulungan?’

 

“At sasabihin sa kanila ng Hari, ‘Tandaan ninyo, nang pagkaitan ninyo ng tulong ang isa sa pinakahamak sa mga ito, ako ang inyong pinagkaitan.’ 46 Itataboy ang mga ito sa kaparusahang walang hanggan, ngunit ang mga matuwid ay pupunta sa buhay na walang hanggan.”

 

 

MARCH 7, 2017

Reading 1 IS 55:10-11

Thus says the LORD: Just as from the heavens the rain and snow come down And do not return there till they have watered the earth, making it fertile and fruitful, Giving seed to the one who sows and bread to the one who eats, So shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; It shall not return to me void, but shall do my will, achieving the end for which I sent it.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 34:4-5, 6-7, 16-17, 18-19

R. From all their distress God rescues the just.

 

Glorify the LORD with me, let us together extol his name. I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.

R. From all their distress God rescues the just.

 

Look to him that you may be radiant with joy, and your faces may not blush with shame. When the poor one called out, the LORD heard, and from all his distress he saved him.

R. From all their distress God rescues the just.

 

The LORD has eyes for the just, and ears for their cry. The LORD confronts the evildoers, to destroy remembrance of them from the earth.

R. From all their distress God rescues the just.

 

When the just cry out, the LORD hears them, and from all their distress he rescues them. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.

R. From all their distress God rescues the just.

 

Verse Before The Gospel MT 4:4B

One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.

 

Gospel MT 6:7-15

Jesus said to his disciples: "In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

 

"This is how you are to pray:

 

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

 

"If you forgive men their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive men, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Isaias 55, 10-11

“Ang ulan at yelo na bumabagsak mula sa langit ay hindi na nagbabalik,

 

kundi dinidilig nito ang lupa,

 

kaya lumalago ang mga halaman at namumunga

 

at nagbibigay ng butil na panghasik, at tinapay upang maging pagkain.

 

Gayundin naman ang mga salita na lumalabas sa aking bibig,

 

ang mga ito'y hindi babalik sa akin na walang katuturan.

 

Tutuparin nito ang aking mga balak, at gagawin nito ang aking ninanais.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 6,7-15

“Sa pananalangin ninyo'y huwag kayong gagamit ng maraming salitang walang kabuluhan, gaya ng ginagawa ng mga Hentil. Ang akala nila'y papakinggan sila ng Diyos dahil sa haba ng kanilang sinasabi. Huwag ninyo silang tutularan. Alam na ng inyong Ama na nasa langit ang inyong kailangan bago pa ninyo ito hingin sa kanya. Ganito kayo mananalangin,

 

‘Ama naming nasa langit, sambahin nawa ang iyong pangalan.

 

Dumating nawa ang iyong kaharian.

 

Masunod nawa ang iyong kalooban dito sa lupa tulad ng sa langit.

 

Bigyan mo kami ng aming pagkain sa araw-araw;

 

at patawarin mo kami sa aming mga kasalanan, tulad ng pagpapatawad namin sa mga nagkakasala sa amin.

 

At huwag mo kaming hayaang matukso, kundi iligtas mo kami sa Masama! Sapagkat iyo ang kaharian, at ang kapangyarihan, at ang kaluwalhatian, magpakailanman! Amen.’

 

“Sapagkat kung pinapatawad ninyo ang mga nagkakasala sa inyo, patatawarin din kayo ng inyong Ama na nasa langit. Ngunit kung hindi ninyo pinapatawad ang inyong kapwa, hindi rin patatawarin ng inyong Ama ang inyong mga kasalanan.”

 

 

 

 

MARCH 8, 2017

Reading 1 JON 3:1-10

The word of the LORD came to Jonah a second time: "Set out for the great city of Nineveh, and announce to it the message that I will tell you." So Jonah made ready and went to Nineveh, according to the LORD's bidding. Now Nineveh was an enormously large city; it took three days to go through it. Jonah began his journey through the city, and had gone but a single day's walk announcing, "Forty days more and Nineveh shall be destroyed," when the people of Nineveh believed God; they proclaimed a fast and all of them, great and small, put on sackcloth.

 

When the news reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, laid aside his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in the ashes. Then he had this proclaimed throughout Nineveh, by decree of the king and his nobles: "Neither man nor beast, neither cattle nor sheep, shall taste anything; they shall not eat, nor shall they drink water. Man and beast shall be covered with sackcloth and call loudly to God; every man shall turn from his evil way and from the violence he has in hand. Who knows, God may relent and forgive, and withhold his blazing wrath, so that we shall not perish." When God saw by their actions how they turned from their evil way, he repented of the evil that he had threatened to do to them; he did not carry it out.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 51:3-4, 12-13, 18-19

R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

 

Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness; in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense. Thoroughly wash me from my guilt and of my sin cleanse me.

R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

 

A clean heart create for me, O God, and a steadfast spirit renew within me. Cast me not out from your presence, and your Holy Spirit take not from me.

R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

 

For you are not pleased with sacrifices; should I offer a burnt offering, you would not accept it. My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit; a heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

 

Verse Before The Gospel JL 2:12-13

Even now, says the LORD, return to me with your whole heart for I am gracious and merciful.

 

Gospel LK 11:29-32

While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them, "This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. At the judgment the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generation and she will condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and there is something greater than Solomon here. At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generation and condemn it, because at the preaching of Jonah they repented, and there is something greater than Jonah here."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Jonas 3,1-10

Muling sinabi ni Yahweh kay Jonas, “Pumunta ka sa Lunsod ng Nineve at ipahayag mo ang mga ipinapasabi ko sa iyo.” Nagpunta nga si Jonas sa Nineve. Malaki ang lunsod na ito; aabutin ng tatlong araw kung ito ay lalakarin. Siya'y pumasok sa lunsod. Pagkaraan ng maghapong paglalakad, malakas niyang ipinahayag, “Gugunawin ang Nineve pagkaraan ng apatnapung araw!” Naniwala ang mga tagaroon sa pahayag na ito mula sa Diyos. Kaya, nag-ayuno silang lahat at nagdamit ng panluksa bilang tanda ng lubos na pagsisisi at pagtalikod sa kanilang mga kasalanan.

 

Nang mabalitaan ito ng hari ng Nineve, bumabâ siya sa kanyang trono, naghubad ng balabal, nagdamit ng panluksa at naupo sa abo. At ipinasabi niya sa mga taga-Nineve, “Ito'y utos ng hari at ng kanyang mga pinuno. Walang dapat kumain ng anuman. Wala ring iinom, maging tao o hayop. Lahat ng tao at hayop ay magdamit ng panluksa. Taimtim na manalangin sa Diyos ang bawat isa. Pagsisihan ng lahat ang nagawa nilang kasalanan at iwan ang masamang pamumuhay. Baka sa paraang ito'y mapawi ang galit ng Diyos, magbago siya ng kanyang pasya at hindi na niya ituloy ang balak na pagpatay sa atin.”

 

Nakita ng Diyos ang kanilang pagtalikod sa kasamaan kaya hindi na niya pinarusahan ang mga ito tulad ng kanyang naunang sinabi.

 

Mabuting Balita Lucas 11,29-32

Nang dumagsa ang mga tao, sinabi ni Jesus, “Napakasama ng mga tao sa panahong ito. Naghahanap sila ng palatandaang mula sa langit, subalit walang palatandaang ipapakita sa kanila maliban sa nangyari kay Jonas. Kung paanong si Jonas ay naging isang palatandaan sa mga taga-Nineve, gayundin naman, ang Anak ng Tao ay magiging isang palatandaan sa lahing ito. Sa Araw ng Paghuhukom, sasaksi ang Reyna ng Sheba laban sa lahing ito, sapagkat naglakbay siya mula pa sa dulo ng daigdig upang mapakinggan ang karunungan ni Solomon, ngunit ang naririto ngayon ay higit na dakila kaysa kay Solomon. Sa Araw ng Paghuhukom, sasaksi ang mga taga-Nineve laban sa lahing ito, sapagkat nagsisi sila dahil sa pangangaral ni Jonas. Pakinggan ninyo, lalong dakila kay Jonas ang naririto ngayon.”

 

 

MARCH 9, 2017

Reading 1 EST C:12, 14-16, 23-25

Queen Esther, seized with mortal anguish, had recourse to the LORD. She lay prostrate upon the ground, together with her handmaids, from morning until evening, and said: "God of Abraham, God of Isaac, and God of Jacob, blessed are you. Help me, who am alone and have no help but you, for I am taking my life in my hand. As a child I used to hear from the books of my forefathers that you, O LORD, always free those who are pleasing to you. Now help me, who am alone and have no one but you, O LORD, my God.

 

"And now, come to help me, an orphan. Put in my mouth persuasive words in the presence of the lion and turn his heart to hatred for our enemy, so that he and those who are in league with him may perish. Save us from the hand of our enemies; turn our mourning into gladness and our sorrows into wholeness."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 138:1-2AB, 2CDE-3, 7C-8

R. Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.

 

I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all my heart, for you have heard the words of my mouth; in the presence of the angels I will sing your praise; I will worship at your holy temple and give thanks to your name.

R. Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.

 

Because of your kindness and your truth; for you have made great above all things your name and your promise. When I called, you answered me; you built up strength within me.

R. Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.

 

Your right hand saves me. The LORD will complete what he has done for me; your kindness, O LORD, endures forever; forsake not the work of your hands.

R. Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.

 

Verse Before The Gospel PS 51:12A, 14A

A clean heart create for me, O God; give me back the joy of your salvation.

 

Gospel MT 7:7-12

Jesus said to his disciples: "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Which one of you would hand his son a stone when he asked for a loaf of bread, or a snake when he asked for a fish? If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to those who ask him.

 

"Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the law and the prophets."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Ester C,12. 14-16. 23-25

Noong mga araw na iyon, labis na nababagabag si Reyna Ester. Dumulog siya sa Panginoon. Ganito ang daing niya sa Panginoong Diyos ng Israel:

 

“Panginoon ko, tanging ikaw ang Hari namin. Tulungan mo ako na ngayo’y nag-iisa at walang ibang maaasahang tutulong kundi ikaw lamang. Haharap ako sa napakalaking panganib. Mula pa sa aking pagkabata, narinig ko na sa liping kinabibilangan ng aking angkan na ikaw, Panginoon, ang humirang sa Israel mula sa dinami-rami ng mga bansa, at ikaw din ang sa panahong iyon ay pumili sa aming mga magulang upang maging iyong bayan magpakailanman. Tinupad mo ang lahat ng iyong ipinangako sa kanila.

 

“Alalahanin mo kamo, Panginoon. Ipadama mo sa amin ang iyong paglingap sa sandaling ito ng kagipitan. Bigyan mo ako ng lakas ng loob, Hari ng lahat ng mga dinidiyos at Pinuno ng lahat ng kapangyarihan sa lupa. Bigyan mo ako ng kakayahang magsalita sa harap ng leong si Asuero, upang maakit ang kanyang puso na mamuhi sa taong kumakalaban sa amin at sa gayo’y mapahamak siya kasama ng mga nakikipagsabwatan sa kanya. Iligtas mo kami, Panginoon. Tulungan mo ako na ngayo’y nag-iisa at walang ibang maaasahang tutulong kundi ikaw lamang.

 

“Ganap mong nababatid ang lahat.”

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 7,7-12

“Humingi kayo at kayo'y bibigyan; humanap kayo at kayo'y makakatagpo; kumatok kayo at kayo'y pagbubuksan. Sapagkat ang bawat humihingi ay tatanggap; ang bawat humahanap ay makakatagpo; at ang bawat kumakatok ay pagbubuksan. Bibigyan ba ninyo ng bato ang inyong anak kapag siya'y humihingi ng tinapay? Bibigyan ba ninyo siya ng ahas kapag siya'y humihingi ng isda? Kung kayong masasama ay marunong magbigay ng mabubuting bagay sa inyong mga anak, gaano pa kaya ang inyong Ama na nasa langit? Bibigyan niya ng mabubuting bagay ang sinumang humihingi sa kanya!

 

“Gawin ninyo sa inyong kapwa ang nais ninyong gawin nila sa inyo. Ito ang buod ng Kautusan at ng mga isinulat ng mga propeta.”

 

 

 

 

MARCH 10, 2017

 

 

Reading 1 EZ 18:21-28

Thus says the Lord GOD: If the wicked man turns away from all the sins he committed, if he keeps all my statutes and does what is right and just, he shall surely live, he shall not die. None of the crimes he committed shall be remembered against him; he shall live because of the virtue he has practiced. Do I indeed derive any pleasure from the death of the wicked? says the Lord GOD. Do I not rather rejoice when he turns from his evil way that he may live?

 

And if the virtuous man turns from the path of virtue to do evil, the same kind of abominable things that the wicked man does, can he do this and still live? None of his virtuous deeds shall be remembered, because he has broken faith and committed sin; because of this, he shall die. You say, "The LORD's way is not fair!" Hear now, house of Israel: Is it my way that is unfair, or rather, are not your ways unfair? When someone virtuous turns away from virtue to commit iniquity, and dies, it is because of the iniquity he committed that he must die. But if the wicked, turning from the wickedness he has committed, does what is right and just, he shall preserve his life; since he has turned away from all the sins that he committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-7A, 7BC-8

R. If you, O Lord, mark iniquities, who can stand?

 

Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD; LORD, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to my voice in supplication.

R. If you, O Lord, mark iniquities, who can stand?

 

If you, O LORD, mark iniquities, LORD, who can stand? But with you is forgiveness, that you may be revered.

R. If you, O Lord, mark iniquities, who can stand?

 

I trust in the LORD; my soul trusts in his word. My soul waits for the LORD more than sentinels wait for the dawn. Let Israel wait for the LORD.

R. If you, O Lord, mark iniquities, who can stand?

 

For with the LORD is kindness and with him is plenteous redemption; And he will redeem Israel For with the LORD is kindness and with him is plenteous redemption; And he will redeem Israel from all their iniquities.

R. If you, O Lord, mark iniquities, who can stand?

 

Verse Before The Gospel EZ 18:31

Cast away from you all the crimes you have committed, says the LORD, and make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit.

 

Gospel MT 5:20-26

Jesus said to his disciples: "I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter into the Kingdom of heaven.

 

"You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment. But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment, and whoever says to his brother, Raqa, will be answerable to the Sanhedrin, and whoever says, 'You fool,' will be liable to fiery Gehenna. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Settle with your opponent quickly while on the way to court. Otherwise your opponent will hand you over to the judge, and the judge will hand you over to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Amen, I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Ezekiel 18, 21-28

“Kung ang isang taong masama ay tumalikod sa kanyang kasamaan, sumunod sa aking mga tuntunin, at gumawa ng mabuti, siya ay mabubuhay. Kakalimutan na ang lahat ng nagawa niyang kasalanan at mabubuhay siya dahil sa kabutihang ginawa niya sa bandang huli. Hindi ko ikinasisiya ang kamatayan ng masama,” sabi pa ni Yahweh. “Ang ibig ko nga, siya'y magsisi at magbagong-buhay. Ngunit kung ang isang taong matuwid ay magpakasama at gumawa ng mga kasuklam-suklam na gawain, hindi siya mabubuhay. Mamamatay siya dahil sa kanyang pagtataksil at sa kasalanang nagawa. Mawawalan ng kabuluhan ang lahat ng kabutihang ginawa niya noong una.

 

“Marahil ay sasabihin ninyong hindi tama itong ginagawa ko. Makinig kayo, mga Israelita: Matuwid ang aking tuntunin, ang pamantayan ninyo ang baluktot. Kapag ang isang taong matuwid ay nagpakasama, mamamatay siya dahil sa kasamaang ginawa niya. At ang masamang nagpakabuti at gumawa ng mga bagay na matuwid ay mabubuhay. Dahil sa pagtalikod sa nagawa niyang kasamaan noong una, mabubuhay siya, hindi mamamatay.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 5, 20-26

Sinasabi ko sa inyo, kung ang pagsunod ninyo sa kalooban ng Diyos ay tulad lamang ng pagsunod ng mga tagapagturo ng Kautusan at mga Pariseo, hinding-hindi kayo makakapasok sa kaharian ng langit.”

 

“Narinig ninyo na sinabi sa inyong mga ninuno, ‘Huwag kang papatay; ang sinumang pumatay ay mananagot sa hukuman.’ Ngunit sinasabi ko naman sa inyo, ang sinumang napopoot sa kanyang kapatid ay mananagot sa hukuman, ang humahamak sa kanyang kapatid ay mananagot sa Kataas-taasang Kapulungan ng mga Judio, at sinumang magsabi sa kanyang kapatid, ‘Ulol ka!’ ay manganganib na maparusahan sa apoy ng impiyerno. Kaya't kung mag-aalay ka ng handog sa dambana para sa Diyos at naalala mong may sama ng loob sa iyo ang iyong kapatid, iwan mo muna ang iyong handog sa harap ng dambana at makipagkasundo ka sa kanya. Pagkatapos, magbalik ka at maghandog sa Diyos.

 

“Kung may ibig magsakdal sa iyo, makipag-ayos ka agad sa kanya bago makarating sa hukuman ang inyong kaso. Kung hindi ay dadalhin ka niya sa hukom, at ibibigay ka nito sa tanod, at ikukulong ka naman sa bilangguan. Tandaan mo: hindi ka makakalabas doon hangga't hindi mo nababayaran ang kahuli-hulihang barya na dapat mong bayaran.”

 

 

MARCH 11, 2017

 

Reading 1 DT 26:16-19

Moses spoke to the people, saying: "This day the LORD, your God, commands you to observe these statutes and decrees. Be careful, then, to observe them with all your heart and with all your soul. Today you are making this agreement with the LORD: he is to be your God and you are to walk in his ways and observe his statutes, commandments and decrees, and to hearken to his voice. And today the LORD is making this agreement with you: you are to be a people peculiarly his own, as he promised you; and provided you keep all his commandments, he will then raise you high in praise and renown and glory above all other nations he has made, and you will be a people sacred to the LORD, your God, as he promised."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 119:1-2, 4-5, 7-8

R. Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!

 

Blessed are they whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD. Blessed are they who observe his decrees, who seek him with all their heart.

R. Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!

 

You have commanded that your precepts be diligently kept. Oh, that I might be firm in the ways of keeping your statutes!

R. Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!

 

I will give you thanks with an upright heart, when I have learned your just ordinances. I will keep your statutes; do not utterly forsake me.

R. Blessed are they who follow the law of the Lord!

 

Verse Before The Gospel 2 COR 6:2B

Behold, now is a very acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.

 

Gospel MT 5:43-48

Jesus said to his disciples: "You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brothers and sisters only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same? So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Deuteronomio 26, 16-19

“Ngayon ay ibinigay nga sa inyo ng Diyos ninyong si Yahweh ang mga tuntuning ito; sundin ninyo ito nang buong puso't kaluluwa. Ipinahayag ninyo ngayon na si Yahweh ang inyong Diyos, lalakad kayo ayon sa kanyang daan, susundin ang kanyang mga tuntunin at papakinggan ang kanyang tinig. Ipinahayag naman niya sa inyo na kayo ay kanyang bayang hinirang, tulad ng kanyang pangako, at dapat ninyong sundin ang kanyang mga tuntunin. Pagpapalain niya kayo higit sa lahat ng bansang kanyang itinatag. Kayo ang bansang nakalaan sa kanya. At tulad ng kanyang pangako, kayo ay tatanggap ng papuri, katanyagan at karangalan.”

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 5, 43-48

“Narinig ninyong sinabi, ‘Ibigin mo ang iyong kapwa at kamuhian mo ang iyong kaaway.’ Ngunit ito naman ang sinasabi ko, ibigin ninyo ang inyong mga kaaway at ipanalangin ninyo ang mga umuusig sa inyo, upang kayo'y maging tunay na mga anak ng inyong Ama na nasa langit. Sapagkat pinasisikat niya ang araw sa mabubuti gayon din sa masasama, at nagpapaulan siya sa mga matuwid at sa mga di-matuwid.

 

“Kung ang mga nagmamahal sa inyo ang siya lamang ninyong mamahalin, anong gantimpala ang inyong maaasahan? Hindi ba't ginagawa rin iyan ng mga maniningil ng buwis? At kung ang mga kapatid lamang ninyo ang inyong binabati, ano ang ginagawa ninyong higit kaysa iba? Hindi ba't ginagawa rin iyan ng mga Hentil? Kaya maging ganap kayo, gaya ng inyong Ama na nasa langit.”

 

 

MARCH 12, 2017

 

Reading 1 GN 12:1-4A

The LORD said to Abram: "Go forth from the land of your kinsfolk and from your father's house to a land that I will show you.

 

"I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you. All the communities of the earth shall find blessing in you."

 

Abram went as the LORD directed him.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22.

R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.

 

Upright is the word of the LORD, and all his works are trustworthy. He loves justice and right; of the kindness of the LORD the earth is full.

R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.

 

See, the eyes of the LORD are upon those who fear him, upon those who hope for his kindness, To deliver them from death and preserve them in spite of famine.

R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.

 

Our soul waits for the LORD, who is our help and our shield. May your kindness, O LORD, be upon us who have put our hope in you.

R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.

 

Reading 2 2 TM 1:8B-10

Beloved: Bear your share of hardship for the gospel with the strength that comes from God.

 

He saved us and called us to a holy life, not according to our works but according to his own design and the grace bestowed on us in Christ Jesus before time began, but now made manifest through the appearance of our savior Christ Jesus, who destroyed death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

 

Verse Before The Gospel CF. MT 17:5

From the shining cloud the Father's voice is heard: This is my beloved Son, hear him.

 

Gospel MT 17:1-9

Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them; his face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, conversing with him. Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, "Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud cast a shadow over them, then from the cloud came a voice that said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him." When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate and were very much afraid. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, "Rise, and do not be afraid." And when the disciples raised their eyes, they saw no one else but Jesus alone.

 

As they were coming down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, "Do not tell the vision to anyone until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 12, 1-4

Sinabi ni Yahweh kay Abram, “Lisanin mo ang iyong bayan, ang tahanan ng iyong ama at mga kamag-anak, at pumunta ka sa bayang ituturo ko sa iyo. Pararamihin ko ang iyong mga anak at apo at gagawin ko silang isang malaking bansa. Pagpapalain kita, at gagawin kong dakila ang iyong pangalan at ikaw ay magiging pagpapala sa marami.

 

Ang sa iyo'y magpapala ay aking pagpapalain,

 

at ang sa iyo'y sumumpa ay aking susumpain;

 

sa pamamagitan mo, lahat ng mga bansa sa daigdig ay aking pagpapalain.”

 

Sumunod nga si Abram sa utos ni Yahweh.

 

Ika-lawang Pagbasa 2 Timoteo 1, 8-10

 

Kaya't huwag kang mahihiyang magpatotoo para sa ating Panginoon, at huwag mo rin akong ikakahiya, na isang bilanggo alang-alang sa kanya. Sa halip, makihati ka sa pagtitiis para sa Magandang Balita. Umasa ka sa kapangyarihan ng Diyos na nagligtas at tumawag sa atin para sa isang banal na gawain. Ginawa niya ito, hindi dahil sa anumang nagawa natin, kundi ayon sa kanyang layunin at kagandahang-loob. Sa simula pa, ito ay ibinigay na niya sa atin sa pamamagitan ni Cristo Jesus, ngunit ito'y nahayag na ngayon, nang dumating si Cristo Jesus na ating Tagapagligtas. Winakasan niya ang kapangyarihan ng kamatayan at inihayag ang buhay na walang hanggan sa pamamagitan ng Magandang Balita.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 17, 1-9

Pagkaraan ng anim na araw, isinama ni Jesus si Pedro at ang magkapatid na Santiago at Juan, at sila'y umakyat sa isang mataas na bundok. Habang sila'y naroroon, nakita nilang nagbago ang anyo ni Jesus, nagliwanag na parang araw ang kanyang mukha at nagningning sa kaputian ang kanyang damit. At nakita ng tatlong alagad sina Moises at Elias na nakikipag-usap kay Jesus. Sinabi ni Pedro kay Jesus, “Panginoon, mabuti't naririto kami. Kung gusto ninyo, magtatayo ako ng tatlong tolda, isa sa inyo, isa kay Moises at isa kay Elias.” Habang nagsasalita pa si Pedro, nililiman sila ng napakaliwanag na ulap. Mula rito'y may tinig na nagsabi, “Ito ang minamahal kong Anak na lubos kong kinalulugdan. Pakinggan ninyo siya!” Nang marinig ng mga alagad ang tinig, labis silang natakot at nagpatirapa. Ngunit nilapitan sila ni Jesus at hinawakan. “Tumayo kayo, huwag kayong matakot!” sabi niya. Nang tumingin sila, si Jesus na lamang ang kanilang nakita.

 

Habang sila'y bumababa sa bundok, iniutos sa kanila ni Jesus, “Huwag ninyong sasabihin kaninuman ang tungkol sa pangitain hangga't hindi muling nabubuhay ang Anak ng Tao.”

 

 

MARCH 13, 2017

 

Reading 1 DN 9:4B-10

"Lord, great and awesome God, you who keep your merciful covenant toward those who love you and observe your commandments! We have sinned, been wicked and done evil; we have rebelled and departed from your commandments and your laws. We have not obeyed your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes, our fathers, and all the people of the land. Justice, O Lord, is on your side; we are shamefaced even to this day: we, the men of Judah, the residents of Jerusalem, and all Israel, near and far, in all the countries to which you have scattered them because of their treachery toward you. O LORD, we are shamefaced, like our kings, our princes, and our fathers, for having sinned against you. But yours, O Lord, our God, are compassion and forgiveness! Yet we rebelled against you and paid no heed to your command, O LORD, our God, to live by the law you gave us through your servants the prophets."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 79:8, 9, 11 AND 13

R. Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins.

 

Remember not against us the iniquities of the past; may your compassion quickly come to us, for we are brought very low.

R. Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins.

 

Help us, O God our savior, because of the glory of your name; Deliver us and pardon our sins for your name's sake.

R. Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins.

 

Let the prisoners' sighing come before you; with your great power free those doomed to death. Then we, your people and the sheep of your pasture, will give thanks to you forever; through all generations we will declare your praise.

R. Lord, do not deal with us according to our sins.

 

Verse Before The Gospel SEE JN 6:63C, 68C

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of everlasting life.

 

Gospel LK 6:36-38

Jesus said to his disciples: "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

 

"Stop judging and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven. Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Daniel 9, 4-10

Nanalangin ako kay Yahweh na aking Diyos at inihingi ko ng kapatawaran ang mga kasalanan ng aking mga kababayan. Ganito ang sinabi ko:

 

“O Panginoon, dakila at Kamangha-manghang Diyos na laging tapat sa kasunduan at tunay na nagmamahal sa mga umiibig sa inyo at sumusunod sa inyong mga utos. Nagkasala po kami at nagpakasama. Naghimagsik po kami at sumuway sa inyong mga tuntunin at utos. Hindi kami nakinig sa inyong mga lingkod na propeta na binigyan ninyo ng kapangyarihang magpahayag sa aming mga hari, pinuno, magulang at sa buong bayan. Panginoon, lagi po kayong nasa katuwiran at kami hanggang ngayo'y nasa kahihiyan, gayundin po ang buong Juda at Jerusalem, ang buong Israel, pati ang mga ipinatapon ninyo sa iba't ibang dako dahil sa kanilang kataksilan. Kami po, O Yahweh, ang aming mga hari, pinuno at magulang ay nahihiya sapagkat nagkasala kami sa inyo. Panginoon naming Diyos, kayo po ay mahabagin at mapagpatawad sa kabila ng lagi naming paghihimagsik at pagsuway sa mga utos na ibinigay ninyo sa amin na inyong mga alipin sa pamamagitan ng inyong mga lingkod na propeta.

 

Mabuting Balita Lucas 6, 36-38

Maging mahabagin kayo tulad ng inyong Ama na mahabagin.”

 

“Huwag kayong humatol at hindi kayo hahatulan. Huwag kayong magparusa at hindi kayo parurusahan. Magpatawad kayo at kayo'y patatawarin. Magbigay kayo at kayo'y bibigyan din; hustong takal, siksik, liglig, at umaapaw pa ang ibibigay sa inyo. Sapagkat ang panukat na ginagamit ninyo sa iba ay siya ring gagamiting panukat sa inyo.”

 

 

MARCH 14, 2017

 

Reading 1 IS 1:10, 16-20

Hear the word of the LORD, princes of Sodom! Listen to the instruction of our God, people of Gomorrah!

 

Wash yourselves clean! Put away your misdeeds from before my eyes; cease doing evil; learn to do good. Make justice your aim: redress the wronged, hear the orphan's plea, defend the widow.

 

Come now, let us set things right, says the LORD: Though your sins be like scarlet, they may become white as snow; Though they be crimson red, they may become white as wool. If you are willing, and obey, you shall eat the good things of the land; But if you refuse and resist, the sword shall consume you: for the mouth of the LORD has spoken!

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 50:8-9, 16BC-17, 21 AND 23

R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

 

"Not for your sacrifices do I rebuke you, for your burnt offerings are before me always. I take from your house no bullock, no goats out of your fold."

R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

 

"Why do you recite my statutes, and profess my covenant with your mouth, Though you hate discipline and cast my words behind you?"

R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

 

"When you do these things, shall I be deaf to it? Or do you think that I am like yourself? I will correct you by drawing them up before your eyes. He that offers praise as a sacrifice glorifies me; and to him that goes the right way I will show the salvation of God."

R. To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

 

Verse Before The Gospel EZ 18:31

Cast away from you all the crimes you have committed, says the LORD, and make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit.

 

Gospel MT 23:1-12

Jesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples, saying, "The scribes and the Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses. Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but they do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people's shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them. All their works are performed to be seen. They widen their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels. They love places of honor at banquets, seats of honor in synagogues, greetings in marketplaces, and the salutation 'Rabbi.' As for you, do not be called 'Rabbi.' You have but one teacher, and you are all brothers. Call no one on earth your father; you have but one Father in heaven. Do not be called 'Master'; you have but one master, the Christ. The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Isaias 1, 10. 16-20

Mga pinuno ng Israel,

 

pakinggan ninyo si Yahweh!

 

Ang inyong mga gawa ay kasinsama

 

ng sa Sodoma at Gomorra.

 

Kaya't pakinggan ninyo at pag-aralan

 

ang katuruan ng Diyos ng ating bayan.

 

Linisin ninyo ang inyong sarili at magbalik-loob sa akin;

 

sa aking harapan, kasamaan ninyo'y inyong tigilan.

 

Pag-aralan ninyong gumawa ng makatuwiran;

 

pairalin ang katarungan;

 

tulungan ang naaapi;

 

ipagtanggol ninyo ang mga ulila,

 

at tulungan ang mga biyuda.

 

“Halikayo at tayo'y magpaliwanagan,” sabi ni Yahweh.

 

Gaano man kapula ang inyong mga kasalanan,

 

kayo'y aking papuputiin, tulad ng yelo o bulak.

 

Kung susundin ninyo ang aking sinasabi,

 

tatamasahin ninyo ang ani ng inyong lupain.

 

Ngunit kung susuway kayo at maghihimagsik,

 

tiyak na kayo'y mamamatay.

 

Ito ang mensahe ni Yahweh.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 23, 1-12

Pagkatapos ay sinabi ni Jesus sa mga tao at sa kanyang mga alagad, “Ang mga tagapagturo ng Kautusan at ang mga Pariseo ang kinikilalang tagapagpaliwanag ng Kautusan ni Moises. Kaya't gawin ninyo ang itinuturo nila at sundin ang kanilang iniuutos, ngunit huwag ninyong tularan ang kanilang ginagawa sapagkat hindi nila isinasagawa ang kanilang ipinapangaral. Nagpapataw sila ng mabibigat na pasanin sa mga tao, ngunit ni daliri ay ayaw nilang igalaw upang tumulong sa pagpasan ng mga iyon. Pawang pakitang-tao ang kanilang mga gawa. Nilalaparan nila ang mga lalagyan ng talata sa kanilang noo at braso, at hinahabaan ang palawit sa laylayan ng kanilang mga damit. Ang nais nila ay ang mga upuang pandangal sa mga handaan at ang mga pangunahing upuan sa sinagoga. Gustung-gusto nilang binabati sila sa mga palengke, at tawaging ‘guro.’ Ngunit, huwag kayong patawag na ‘guro,’ sapagkat iisa ang inyong Guro at kayong lahat ay magkakapatid. Huwag ninyong tawaging ama ang sinumang tao sa lupa sapagkat iisa ang inyong Ama, ang A

ma na nasa langit. Huwag kayong patawag na tagapagturo, sapagkat iisa ang inyong tagapagturo, ang Cristo. Ang pinakadakila sa inyo ay magiging lingkod ninyo. Ang nagmamataas ay ibababa, at ang nagpapakumbaba ay itataas.”

 

 

MARCH 15, 2017

Reading 1 JER 18:18-20

The people of Judah and the citizens of Jerusalem said, "Come, let us contrive a plot against Jeremiah. It will not mean the loss of instruction from the priests, nor of counsel from the wise, nor of messages from the prophets. And so, let us destroy him by his own tongue; let us carefully note his every word."

 

Heed me, O LORD, and listen to what my adversaries say. Must good be repaid with evil that they should dig a pit to take my life? Remember that I stood before you to speak in their behalf, to turn away your wrath from them.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 31:5-6, 14, 15-16

R. Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.

 

You will free me from the snare they set for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hands I commend my spirit; you will redeem me, O LORD, O faithful God.

R. Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.

 

I hear the whispers of the crowd, that frighten me from every side, as they consult together against me, plotting to take my life.

R. Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.

 

But my trust is in you, O LORD; I say, "You are my God." In your hands is my destiny; rescue me from the clutches of my enemies and my persecutors.

R. Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.

 

Verse Before The Gospel JN 8:12

I am the light of the world, says the Lord; whoever follows me will have the light of life.

 

Gospel MT 20:17-28

As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the Twelve disciples aside by themselves, and said to them on the way, "Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and hand him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day."

 

Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee approached Jesus with her sons and did him homage, wishing to ask him for something. He said to her, "What do you wish?" She answered him, "Command that these two sons of mine sit, one at your right and the other at your left, in your kingdom." Jesus said in reply, "You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?" They said to him, "We can." He replied, "My chalice you will indeed drink, but to sit at my right and at my left, this is not mine to give but is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father." When the ten heard this, they became indignant at the two brothers. But Jesus summoned them and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and the great ones make their authority over them felt. But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave. Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Jeremias 18, 18-20

Nang marinig ito ng mga tao, sinabi nila, “Patayin na natin si Jeremias! May mga pari namang magtuturo sa atin, mga matatalino na magbibigay ng payo, at mga propetang magpapahayag ng mensahe ng Diyos. Isakdal natin siya, at huwag nang pakinggan ang mga sinasabi niya.”

 

Kaya nanalangin si Jeremias, “Yahweh, pakinggan mo ang aking dalangin; nalalaman mo ang binabalak ng aking mga kaaway. Ang kabayaran ba ng kabutihan ay kasamaan? Ano't naghanda sila ng hukay upang ako'y patayin? Nalalaman mo kung paano ko sila idinalangin sa iyo upang huwag mong ipalasap sa kanila ang iyong poot.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 20, 17-28

Nang nasa daan na sila papuntang Jerusalem, ibinukod ni Jesus ang labindalawang alagad at sinabi sa kanila, “Pupunta tayo sa Jerusalem. Doo'y ipagkakanulo ang Anak ng Tao sa mga punong pari at sa mga tagapagturo ng Kautusan. Hahatulan siya ng kamatayan at ibibigay sa mga Hentil. Siya'y kukutyain, hahagupitin at ipapako sa krus ngunit muli siyang bubuhayin ng Diyos sa ikatlong araw.”

 

Lumapit kay Jesus ang asawa ni Zebedeo, kasama ang dalawa niyang anak na lalaki. Lumuhod siya sa harapan ni Jesus upang sabihin ang kanyang kahilingan.

 

“Ano ang gusto mo?” tanong ni Jesus.

 

Sumagot siya, “Kapag naghahari na po kayo, paupuin ninyo sa inyong tabi ang dalawa kong anak, isa sa kanan at isa sa kaliwa.”

 

“Hindi ninyo nalalaman ang inyong hinihingi,” sabi ni Jesus sa kanila. “Kaya ba ninyong tiisin ang hirap na malapit ko nang danasin?”

 

“Opo,” tugon nila.

 

At sinabi ni Jesus, “Daranasin nga ninyo ang hirap na titiisin ko. Ngunit wala sa akin ang pagpapasya kung sino ang mauupo sa aking kanan at sa aking kaliwa. Ang mga upuang iyo'y para sa pinaglalaanan ng aking Ama.”

 

Nang marinig ito ng sampung alagad, nagalit sila sa magkapatid. Dahil dito, pinalapit ni Jesus ang kanyang mga alagad at sinabi sa kanila, “Alam ninyo na ang mga pinuno ng mga Hentil ay itinataas ang kanilang sarili bilang mga panginoon sa kanila, at ang kagustuhan ng mga nasa kapangyarihan ang siyang nasusunod. Hindi ganyan ang dapat umiral sa inyo. Sa halip, kung nais ninyong maging dakila, dapat kayong maging lingkod sa iba, at kung sinuman sa inyo ang nagnanais maging una, ay dapat maging alipin ninyo. Sapagkat maging ang Anak ng Tao ay naparito, hindi upang paglingkuran, kundi upang maglingkod at ialay ang kanyang buhay sa ikatutubos ng marami.”

 

 

MARCH 16, 2017

 

Reading 1 JER 17:5-10

Thus says the LORD: Cursed is the man who trusts in human beings, who seeks his strength in flesh, whose heart turns away from the LORD. He is like a barren bush in the desert that enjoys no change of season, But stands in a lava waste, a salt and empty earth. Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose hope is the LORD. He is like a tree planted beside the waters that stretches out its roots to the stream: It fears not the heat when it comes, its leaves stay green; In the year of drought it shows no distress, but still bears fruit. More tortuous than all else is the human heart, beyond remedy; who can understand it? I, the LORD, alone probe the mind and test the heart, To reward everyone according to his ways, according to the merit of his deeds.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 1:1-2, 3, 4 AND 6

R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

 

Blessed the man who follows not the counsel of the wicked Nor walks in the way of sinners, nor sits in the company of the insolent, But delights in the law of the LORD and meditates on his law day and night.

R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

 

He is like a tree planted near running water, That yields its fruit in due season, and whose leaves never fade. Whatever he does, prospers.

R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

 

Not so, the wicked, not so; they are like chaff which the wind drives away. For the LORD watches over the way of the just, but the way of the wicked vanishes.

R. Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

 

Verse Before The Gospel SEE LK 8:15

Blessed are they who have kept the word with a generous heart and yield a harvest through perseverance.

 

Gospel LK 16:19-31

Jesus said to the Pharisees: "There was a rich man who dressed in purple garments and fine linen and dined sumptuously each day. And lying at his door was a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who would gladly have eaten his fill of the scraps that fell from the rich man's table. Dogs even used to come and lick his sores. When the poor man died, he was carried away by angels to the bosom of Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried, and from the netherworld, where he was in torment, he raised his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. And he cried out, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me. Send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am suffering torment in these flames.' Abraham replied, 'My child, remember that you received what was good during your lifetime while Lazarus likewise received what was bad; but now he is comforted here, whereas you are tormented. Moreover, between us and you a great chasm is established to prevent anyone from crossing who might wish to go from our side to yours or from your side to ours.' He said, 'Then I beg you, father, send him to my father's house, for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them, lest they too come to this place of torment.' But Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the prophets. Let them listen to them.' He said, 'Oh no, father Abraham, but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.' Then Abraham said, 'If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded if someone should rise from the dead.'"

 

MARCH 17, 2017

 

Reading 1 GN 37:3-4, 12-13A, 17B-28A

Israel loved Joseph best of all his sons, for he was the child of his old age; and he had made him a long tunic. When his brothers saw that their father loved him best of all his sons, they hated him so much that they would not even greet him.

 

One day, when his brothers had gone to pasture their father's flocks at Shechem, Israel said to Joseph, "Your brothers, you know, are tending our flocks at Shechem. Get ready; I will send you to them."

 

So Joseph went after his brothers and caught up with them in Dothan. They noticed him from a distance, and before he came up to them, they plotted to kill him. They said to one another: "Here comes that master dreamer! Come on, let us kill him and throw him into one of the cisterns here; we could say that a wild beast devoured him. We shall then see what comes of his dreams."

 

When Reuben heard this, he tried to save him from their hands, saying, "We must not take his life. Instead of shedding blood," he continued, "just throw him into that cistern there in the desert; but do not kill him outright." His purpose was to rescue him from their hands and return him to his father. So when Joseph came up to them, they stripped him of the long tunic he had on; then they took him and threw him into the cistern, which was empty and dry.

 

They then sat down to their meal. Looking up, they saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead, their camels laden with gum, balm and resin to be taken down to Egypt. Judah said to his brothers: "What is to be gained by killing our brother and concealing his blood? Rather, let us sell him to these Ishmaelites, instead of doing away with him ourselves. After all, he is our brother, our own flesh." His brothers agreed. They sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of silver.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 105:16-17, 18-19, 20-21

R. Remember the marvels the Lord has done.

 

When the LORD called down a famine on the land and ruined the crop that sustained them, He sent a man before them, Joseph, sold as a slave.

R. Remember the marvels the Lord has done.

 

They had weighed him down with fetters, and he was bound with chains, Till his prediction came to pass and the word of the LORD proved him true.

R. Remember the marvels the Lord has done.

 

The king sent and released him, the ruler of the peoples set him free. He made him lord of his house and ruler of all his possessions.

R. Remember the marvels the Lord has done.

 

Verse Before The Gospel JN 3:16

God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son; so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life.

 

Gospel MT 21:33-43, 45-46

Jesus said to the chief priests and the elders of the people: "Hear another parable. There was a landowner who planted a vineyard, put a hedge around it, dug a wine press in it, and built a tower. Then he leased it to tenants and went on a journey. When vintage time drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants to obtain his produce. But the tenants seized the servants and one they beat, another they killed, and a third they stoned. Again he sent other servants, more numerous than the first ones, but they treated them in the same way. Finally, he sent his son to them, thinking, 'They will respect my son.' But when the tenants saw the son, they said to one another, 'This is the heir. Come, let us kill him and acquire his inheritance.' They seized him, threw him out of the vineyard, and killed him. What will the owner of the vineyard do to those tenants when he comes?" They answered him, "He will put those wretched men to a wretched death and lease his vineyard to other tenants who will give him the produce at the proper times." Jesus said to them, "Did you never read in the Scriptures:

 

The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; by the Lord has this been done, and it is wonderful in our eyes?

 

Therefore, I say to you, the Kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people that will produce its fruit." When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they knew that he was speaking about them. And although they were attempting to arrest him, they feared the crowds, for they regarded him as a prophet.

 

MARCH 18, 2017

 

Reading 1 MI 7:14-15, 18-20

Shepherd your people with your staff, the flock of your inheritance, That dwells apart in a woodland, in the midst of Carmel. Let them feed in Bashan and Gilead, as in the days of old; As in the days when you came from the land of Egypt, show us wonderful signs.

 

Who is there like you, the God who removes guilt and pardons sin for the remnant of his inheritance; Who does not persist in anger forever, but delights rather in clemency, And will again have compassion on us, treading underfoot our guilt? You will cast into the depths of the sea all our sins; You will show faithfulness to Jacob, and grace to Abraham, As you have sworn to our fathers from days of old.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

 

Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all my being, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

 

He pardons all your iniquities, he heals all your ills. He redeems your life from destruction, he crowns you with kindness and compassion.

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

 

He will not always chide, nor does he keep his wrath forever. Not according to our sins does he deal with us, nor does he requite us according to our crimes.

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

 

For as the heavens are high above the earth, so surpassing is his kindness toward those who fear him. As far as the east is from the west, so far has he put our transgressions from us.

R. The Lord is kind and merciful.

 

Verse Before The Gospel LK 15:18

I will get up and go to my father and shall say to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.

 

Gospel LK 15:1-3, 11-32

Tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to listen to Jesus, but the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." So to them Jesus addressed this parable. "A man had two sons, and the younger son said to his father, 'Father, give me the share of your estate that should come to me.' So the father divided the property between them. After a few days, the younger son collected all his belongings and set off to a distant country where he squandered his inheritance on a life of dissipation. When he had freely spent everything, a severe famine struck that country, and he found himself in dire need. So he hired himself out to one of the local citizens who sent him to his farm to tend the swine. And he longed to eat his fill of the pods on which the swine fed, but nobody gave him any. Coming to his senses he thought, 'How many of my father's hired workers have more than enough food to eat, but here am I, dying from hunger. I shall get up and go to my father and I shall say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I no longer deserve to be called your son; treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers."' So he got up and went back to his father. While he was still a long way off, his father caught sight of him, and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him and kissed him. His son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you; I no longer deserve to be called your son.' But his father ordered his servants, 'Quickly, bring the finest robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Take the fattened calf and slaughter it. Then let us celebrate with a feast, because this son of mine was dead, and has come to life again; he was lost, and has been found.' Then the celebration began. Now the older son had been out in the field and, on his way back, as he neared the house, he heard the sound of music and dancing. He called one of the servants and asked what this might mean. The servant said to him, 'Your brother has returned and your father has slaughtered the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.' He became angry, and when he refused to enter the house, his father came out and pleaded with him. He said to his father in reply, 'Look, all these years I served you and not once did I disobey your orders; yet you never gave me even a young goat to feast on with my friends. But when your son returns who swallowed up your property with prostitutes, for him you slaughter the fattened calf.' He said to him, 'My son, you are here with me always; everything I have is yours. But now we must celebrate and rejoice, because your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.'"

 

MARCH 19, 2017

 

Reading 1 EX 17:3-7

In those days, in their thirst for water, the people grumbled against Moses, saying, "Why did you ever make us leave Egypt? Was it just to have us die here of thirst with our children and our livestock?" So Moses cried out to the LORD, "What shall I do with this people? a little more and they will stone me!" The LORD answered Moses, "Go over there in front of the people, along with some of the elders of Israel, holding in your hand, as you go, the staff with which you struck the river. I will be standing there in front of you on the rock in Horeb. Strike the rock, and the water will flow from it for the people to drink." This Moses did, in the presence of the elders of Israel. The place was called Massah and Meribah, because the Israelites quarreled there and tested the LORD, saying, "Is the LORD in our midst or not?"

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 95:1-2, 6-7, 8-9

R. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

 

Come, let us sing joyfully to the LORD; let us acclaim the Rock of our salvation. Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us joyfully sing psalms to him.

R. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

 

Come, let us bow down in worship; let us kneel before the LORD who made us. For he is our God, and we are the people he shepherds, the flock he guides.

R. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

 

Oh, that today you would hear his voice: "Harden not your hearts as at Meribah, as in the day of Massah in the desert, Where your fathers tempted me; they tested me though they had seen my works."

R. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

 

Reading 2 ROM 5:1-2, 5-8

Brothers and sisters: Since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith to this grace in which we stand, and we boast in hope of the glory of God.

 

And hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. For Christ, while we were still helpless, died at the appointed time for the ungodly. Indeed, only with difficulty does one die for a just person, though perhaps for a good person one might even find courage to die. But God proves his love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us.

 

Verse Before The Gospel CF. JN 4:42, 15

Lord, you are truly the Savior of the wordl; give me living water, that I may never thirst again.

 

Gospel JN 4:5-42

Jesus came to a town of Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of land that Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob's well was there. Jesus, tired from his journey, sat down there at the well. It was about noon.

 

A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give me a drink." His disciples had gone into the town to buy food. The Samaritan woman said to him, "How can you, a Jew, ask me, a Samaritan woman, for a drink?" —For Jews use nothing in common with Samaritans.— Jesus answered and said to her, "If you knew the gift of God and who is saying to you, 'Give me a drink, ' you would have asked him and he would have given you living water." The woman said to him, "Sir, you do not even have a bucket and the cistern is deep; where then can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us this cistern and drank from it himself with his children and his flocks?" Jesus answered and said to her, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again; but whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst; the water I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I may not be thirsty or have to keep coming here to draw water."

 

Jesus said to her, "Go call your husband and come back." The woman answered and said to him, "I do not have a husband." Jesus answered her, "You are right in saying, 'I do not have a husband.' For you have had five husbands, and the one you have now is not your husband. What you have said is true." The woman said to him, "Sir, I can see that you are a prophet. Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain; but you people say that the place to worship is in Jerusalem." Jesus said to her, "Believe me, woman, the hour is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You people worship what you do not understand; we worship what we understand, because salvation is from the Jews. But the hour is coming, and is now here, when true worshipers will worship the Father in Spirit and truth; and indeed the Father seeks such people to worship him. God is Spirit, and those who worship him must worship in Spirit and truth." The woman said to him, "I know that the Messiah is coming, the one called the Christ; when he comes, he will tell us everything." Jesus said to her, "I am he, the one speaking with you."

 

At that moment his disciples returned, and were amazed that he was talking with a woman, but still no one said, "What are you looking for?" or "Why are you talking with her?" The woman left her water jar and went into the town and said to the people, "Come see a man who told me everything I have done. Could he possibly be the Christ?" They went out of the town and came to him. Meanwhile, the disciples urged him, "Rabbi, eat." But he said to them, "I have food to eat of which you do not know." So the disciples said to one another, "Could someone have brought him something to eat?" Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of the one who sent me and to finish his work. Do you not say, 'In four months the harvest will be here'? I tell you, look up and see the fields ripe for the harvest. The reaper is already receiving payment and gathering crops for eternal life, so that the sower and reaper can rejoice together. For here the saying is verified that 'One sows and another reaps.' I sent you to reap what you have not worked for; others have done the work, and you are sharing the fruits of their work."

 

Many of the Samaritans of that town began to believe in him because of the word of the woman who testified, "He told me everything I have done." When the Samaritans came to him, they invited him to stay with them; and he stayed there two days. Many more began to believe in him because of his word, and they said to the woman, "We no longer believe because of your word; for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is truly the savior of the world."

Or JN 4:5-15, 19B-26, 39A, 40-42

 

Jesus came to a town of Samaria called Sychar,

near the plot of land that Jacob had given to his son Joseph.

Jacob's well was there.

Jesus, tired from his journey, sat down there at the well.

It was about noon.

 

A woman of Samaria came to draw water.

Jesus said to her,

"Give me a drink."

His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.

The Samaritan woman said to him,

"How can you, a Jew, ask me, a Samaritan woman, for a drink?"

—For Jews use nothing in common with Samaritans.—

Jesus answered and said to her,

"If you knew the gift of God

and who is saying to you, 'Give me a drink, '

you would have asked him

and he would have given you living water."

The woman said to him,

"Sir, you do not even have a bucket and the cistern is deep;

where then can you get this living water?

Are you greater than our father Jacob,

who gave us this cistern and drank from it himself

with his children and his flocks?"

Jesus answered and said to her,

"Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again;

but whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst;

the water I shall give will become in him

a spring of water welling up to eternal life."

The woman said to him,

"Sir, give me this water, so that I may not be thirsty

or have to keep coming here to draw water.

 

"I can see that you are a prophet.

Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain;

but you people say that the place to worship is in Jerusalem."

Jesus said to her,

"Believe me, woman, the hour is coming

when you will worship the Father

neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem.

You people worship what you do not understand;

we worship what we understand,

because salvation is from the Jews.

But the hour is coming, and is now here,

when true worshipers will worship the Father in Spirit and truth;

and indeed the Father seeks such people to worship him.

God is Spirit, and those who worship him

must worship in Spirit and truth."

The woman said to him,

"I know that the Messiah is coming, the one called the Christ;

when he comes, he will tell us everything."

Jesus said to her,

"I am he, the one who is speaking with you."

 

Many of the Samaritans of that town began to believe in him.

When the Samaritans came to him,

they invited him to stay with them;

and he stayed there two days.

Many more began to believe in him because of his word,

and they said to the woman,

"We no longer believe because of your word;

for we have heard for ourselves,

and we know that this is truly the savior of the world."

 

MARCH 20, 2017

Reading 1 2 SM 7:4-5A, 12-14A, 16

The LORD spoke to Nathan and said: "Go, tell my servant David, 'When your time comes and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your heir after you, sprung from your loins, and I will make his kingdom firm. It is he who shall build a house for my name. And I will make his royal throne firm forever. I will be a father to him, and he shall be a son to me. Your house and your kingdom shall endure forever before me; your throne shall stand firm forever.'"

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 89:2-3, 4-5, 27 AND 29

R. The son of David will live for ever.

 

The promises of the LORD I will sing forever; through all generations my mouth shall proclaim your faithfulness, For you have said, "My kindness is established forever"; in heaven you have confirmed your faithfulness.

R. The son of David will live for ever.

 

"I have made a covenant with my chosen one, I have sworn to David my servant: Forever will I confirm your posterity and establish your throne for all generations."

R. The son of David will live for ever.

 

"He shall say of me, 'You are my father, my God, the Rock, my savior.' Forever I will maintain my kindness toward him, and my covenant with him stands firm."

R. The son of David will live for ever.

 

Reading 2 ROM 4:13, 16-18, 22

Brothers and sisters: It was not through the law that the promise was made to Abraham and his descendants that he would inherit the world, but through the righteousness that comes from faith. For this reason, it depends on faith, so that it may be a gift, and the promise may be guaranteed to all his descendants, not to those who only adhere to the law but to those who follow the faith of Abraham, who is the father of all of us, as it is written, I have made you father of many nations. He is our father in the sight of God, in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into being what does not exist. He believed, hoping against hope, that he would become the father of many nations, according to what was said, Thus shall your descendants be. That is why it was credited to him as righteousness.

 

Verse Before The Gospel PS 84:5

Blessed are those who dwell in your house, O Lord; they never cease to praise you.

 

Gospel MT 1:16, 18-21, 24A

Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.

 

Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.

 

MARCH 21, 2017

 

Reading 1 DN 3:25, 34-43

Azariah stood up in the fire and prayed aloud:

 

"For your name's sake, O Lord, do not deliver us up forever, or make void your covenant. Do not take away your mercy from us, for the sake of Abraham, your beloved, Isaac your servant, and Israel your holy one, To whom you promised to multiply their offspring like the stars of heaven, or the sand on the shore of the sea. For we are reduced, O Lord, beyond any other nation, brought low everywhere in the world this day because of our sins. We have in our day no prince, prophet, or leader, no burnt offering, sacrifice, oblation, or incense, no place to offer first fruits, to find favor with you. But with contrite heart and humble spirit let us be received; As though it were burnt offerings of rams and bullocks, or thousands of fat lambs, So let our sacrifice be in your presence today as we follow you unreservedly; for those who trust in you cannot be put to shame. And now we follow you with our whole heart, we fear you and we pray to you. Do not let us be put to shame, but deal with us in your kindness and great mercy. Deliver us by your wonders, and bring glory to your name, O Lord."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 25:4-5AB, 6 AND 7BC, 8-9

R. Remember your mercies, O Lord.

 

Your ways, O LORD, make known to me; teach me your paths, Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my savior.

R. Remember your mercies, O Lord.

 

Remember that your compassion, O LORD, and your kindness are from of old. In your kindness remember me, because of your goodness, O LORD.

R. Remember your mercies, O Lord.

 

Good and upright is the LORD; thus he shows sinners the way. He guides the humble to justice, he teaches the humble his way.

R. Remember your mercies, O Lord.

 

Verse Before The Gospel JL 2:12-13

Even now, says the LORD, return to me with your whole heart; for I am gracious and merciful.

 

Gospel MT 18:21-35

Peter approached Jesus and asked him, "Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him? As many as seven times?" Jesus answered, "I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times. That is why the Kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who decided to settle accounts with his servants. When he began the accounting, a debtor was brought before him who owed him a huge amount. Since he had no way of paying it back, his master ordered him to be sold, along with his wife, his children, and all his property, in payment of the debt. At that, the servant fell down, did him homage, and said, 'Be patient with me, and I will pay you back in full.' Moved with compassion the master of that servant let him go and forgave him the loan. When that servant had left, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a much smaller amount. He seized him and started to choke him, demanding, 'Pay back what you owe.' Falling to his knees, his fellow servant begged him, 'Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.' But he refused. Instead, he had him put in prison until he paid back the debt. Now when his fellow servants saw what had happened, they were deeply disturbed, and went to their master and reported the whole affair. His master summoned him and said to him, 'You wicked servant! I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to. Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant, as I had pity on you?' Then in anger his master handed him over to the torturers until he should pay back the whole debt. So will my heavenly Father do to you, unless each of you forgives your brother from your heart."

 

MARCH 22, 2017

 

Reading 1 DT 4:1, 5-9

Moses spoke to the people and said: "Now, Israel, hear the statutes and decrees which I am teaching you to observe, that you may live, and may enter in and take possession of the land which the LORD, the God of your fathers, is giving you. Therefore, I teach you the statutes and decrees as the LORD, my God, has commanded me, that you may observe them in the land you are entering to occupy. Observe them carefully, for thus will you give evidence of your wisdom and intelligence to the nations, who will hear of all these statutes and say, 'This great nation is truly a wise and intelligent people.' For what great nation is there that has gods so close to it as the LORD, our God, is to us whenever we call upon him? Or what great nation has statutes and decrees that are as just as this whole law which I am setting before you today?

 

"However, take care and be earnestly on your guard not to forget the things which your own eyes have seen, nor let them slip from your memory as long as you live, but teach them to your children and to your children's children."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 147:12-13, 15-16, 19-20

R. Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.

 

Glorify the LORD, O Jerusalem; praise your God, O Zion. For he has strengthened the bars of your gates; he has blessed your children within you.

R. Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.

 

He sends forth his command to the earth; swiftly runs his word! He spreads snow like wool; frost he strews like ashes.

R. Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.

 

He has proclaimed his word to Jacob, his statutes and his ordinances to Israel. He has not done thus for any other nation; his ordinances he has not made known to them.

R. Praise the Lord, Jerusalem.

 

Verse Before The Gospel SEE JN 6:63C, 68C

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of everlasting life.

 

Gospel MT 5:17-19

Jesus said to his disciples: "Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law, until all things have taken place. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in the Kingdom of heaven. But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven."

 

MARCH 23, 2017

 

Reading 1 JER 7:23-28

Thus says the LORD: This is what I commanded my people: Listen to my voice; then I will be your God and you shall be my people. Walk in all the ways that I command you, so that you may prosper.

 

But they obeyed not, nor did they pay heed. They walked in the hardness of their evil hearts and turned their backs, not their faces, to me. From the day that your fathers left the land of Egypt even to this day, I have sent you untiringly all my servants the prophets. Yet they have not obeyed me nor paid heed; they have stiffened their necks and done worse than their fathers. When you speak all these words to them, they will not listen to you either; when you call to them, they will not answer you. Say to them: This is the nation that does not listen to the voice of the LORD, its God, or take correction. Faithfulness has disappeared; the word itself is banished from their speech.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 95:1-2, 6-7, 8-9

R. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

 

Come, let us sing joyfully to the LORD; let us acclaim the Rock of our salvation. Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us joyfully sing psalms to him.

R. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

 

Come, let us bow down in worship; let us kneel before the LORD who made us. For he is our God, and we are the people he shepherds, the flock he guides.

R. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

 

Oh, that today you would hear his voice: "Harden not your hearts as at Meribah, as in the day of Massah in the desert, Where your fathers tempted me; they tested me though they had seen my works."

R. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

 

Verse Before The Gospel JL 2:12-13

Even now, says the LORD, return to me with your whole heart, for I am gracious and merciful.

 

Gospel LK 11:14-23

Jesus was driving out a demon that was mute, and when the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke and the crowds were amazed. Some of them said, "By the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons, he drives out demons." Others, to test him, asked him for a sign from heaven. But he knew their thoughts and said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste and house will fall against house. And if Satan is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that it is by Beelzebul that I drive out demons. If I, then, drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your own people drive them out? Therefore they will be your judges. But if it is by the finger of God that I drive out demons, then the Kingdom of God has come upon you. When a strong man fully armed guards his palace, his possessions are safe. But when one stronger than he attacks and overcomes him, he takes away the armor on which he relied and distributes the spoils. Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters."

 

MARCH 24, 2017

 

Reading 1 HOS 14:2-10

Thus says the LORD: Return, O Israel, to the LORD, your God; you have collapsed through your guilt. Take with you words, and return to the LORD; Say to him, "Forgive all iniquity, and receive what is good, that we may render as offerings the bullocks from our stalls. Assyria will not save us, nor shall we have horses to mount; We shall say no more, 'Our god,' to the work of our hands; for in you the orphan finds compassion."

 

I will heal their defection, says the LORD, I will love them freely; for my wrath is turned away from them. I will be like the dew for Israel: he shall blossom like the lily; He shall strike root like the Lebanon cedar, and put forth his shoots. His splendor shall be like the olive tree and his fragrance like the Lebanon cedar. Again they shall dwell in his shade and raise grain; They shall blossom like the vine, and his fame shall be like the wine of Lebanon.

 

Ephraim! What more has he to do with idols? I have humbled him, but I will prosper him. "I am like a verdant cypress tree"– Because of me you bear fruit!

 

Let him who is wise understand these things; let him who is prudent know them. Straight are the paths of the LORD, in them the just walk, but sinners stumble in them.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 81:6C-8A, 8BC-9, 10-11AB, 14 AND 17

R. I am the Lord your God: hear my voice.

 

An unfamiliar speech I hear: "I relieved his shoulder of the burden; his hands were freed from the basket. In distress you called, and I rescued you."

R. I am the Lord your God: hear my voice.

 

"Unseen, I answered you in thunder; I tested you at the waters of Meribah. Hear, my people, and I will admonish you; O Israel, will you not hear me?"

R. I am the Lord your God: hear my voice.

 

"There shall be no strange god among you nor shall you worship any alien god. I, the LORD, am your God who led you forth from the land of Egypt."

R. I am the Lord your God: hear my voice.

 

"If only my people would hear me, and Israel walk in my ways, I would feed them with the best of wheat, and with honey from the rock I would fill them."

R. I am the Lord your God: hear my voice.

 

Verse Before The Gospel MT 4:17

Repent, says the Lord; the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.

 

Gospel MK 12:28-34

One of the scribes came to Jesus and asked him, "Which is the first of all the commandments?" Jesus replied, "The first is this: Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these." The scribe said to him, "Well said, teacher. You are right in saying, He is One and there is no other than he. And to love him with all your heart, with all your understanding, with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is worth more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices." And when Jesus saw that he answered with understanding, he said to him, "You are not far from the Kingdom of God." And no one dared to ask him any more questions.

 

MARCH 25, 2017

 

Reading 1 IS 7:10-14; 8:10

The LORD spoke to Ahaz, saying: Ask for a sign from the LORD, your God; let it be deep as the nether world, or high as the sky! But Ahaz answered, "I will not ask! I will not tempt the LORD!" Then Isaiah said: Listen, O house of David! Is it not enough for you to weary people, must you also weary my God? Therefore the Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall be with child, and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel, which means "God is with us!"

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 40:7-8A, 8B-9, 10, 11

R. Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.

 

Sacrifice or oblation you wished not, but ears open to obedience you gave me. Holocausts or sin-offerings you sought not; then said I, "Behold I come."

R. Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.

 

"In the written scroll it is prescribed for me, To do your will, O my God, is my delight, and your law is within my heart!"

R. Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.

 

I announced your justice in the vast assembly; I did not restrain my lips, as you, O LORD, know.

R. Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.

 

Your justice I kept not hid within my heart; your faithfulness and your salvation I have spoken of; I have made no secret of your kindness and your truth in the vast assembly.

R. Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.

 

Reading 2 HEB 10:4-10

Brothers and sisters: It is impossible that the blood of bulls and goats take away sins. For this reason, when Christ came into the world, he said:

 

"Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but a body you prepared for me; in holocausts and sin offerings you took no delight. Then I said, 'As is written of me in the scroll, behold, I come to do your will, O God.'"

 

First he says, "Sacrifices and offerings, holocausts and sin offerings, you neither desired nor delighted in." These are offered according to the law. Then he says, "Behold, I come to do your will." He takes away the first to establish the second. By this "will," we have been consecrated through the offering of the Body of Jesus Christ once for all.

 

Verse Before The Gospel JN 1:14B

The Word of God became flesh and made his dwelling among us; and we saw his glory.

 

Gospel LK 1:26-38

The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin's name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, "Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you." But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his Kingdom there will be no end." But Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?" And the angel said to her in reply, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God." Mary said, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." Then the angel departed from her.

 

MARCH 26, 2017

 

Reading 1 1 SM 16:1B, 6-7, 10-13A

The LORD said to Samuel: "Fill your horn with oil, and be on your way. I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem, for I have chosen my king from among his sons."

 

As Jesse and his sons came to the sacrifice, Samuel looked at Eliab and thought, "Surely the LORD's anointed is here before him." But the LORD said to Samuel: "Do not judge from his appearance or from his lofty stature, because I have rejected him. Not as man sees does God see, because man sees the appearance but the LORD looks into the heart." In the same way Jesse presented seven sons before Samuel, but Samuel said to Jesse, "The LORD has not chosen any one of these." Then Samuel asked Jesse, "Are these all the sons you have?" Jesse replied, "There is still the youngest, who is tending the sheep." Samuel said to Jesse, "Send for him; we will not begin the sacrificial banquet until he arrives here." Jesse sent and had the young man brought to them. He was ruddy, a youth handsome to behold and making a splendid appearance. The LORD said, "There—anoint him, for this is the one!" Then Samuel, with the horn of oil in hand, anointed David in the presence of his brothers; and from that day on, the spirit of the LORD rushed upon David.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 23: 1-3A, 3B-4, 5, 6

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. In verdant pastures he gives me repose; beside restful waters he leads me; he refreshes my soul.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

He guides me in right paths for his name's sake. Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side With your rod and your staff that give me courage.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

You spread the table before me in the sight of my foes; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

Only goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD for years to come.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

Reading 2 EPH 5:8-14

Brothers and sisters: You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light, for light produces every kind of goodness and righteousness and truth. Try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the fruitless works of darkness; rather expose them, for it is shameful even to mention the things done by them in secret; but everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for everything that becomes visible is light. Therefore, it says: "Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light."

 

Verse Before The Gospel JN 8:12

I am the light of the world, says the Lord; whoever follows me will have the light of life.

 

Gospel JN 9:1-41

As Jesus passed by he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" Jesus answered, "Neither he nor his parents sinned; it is so that the works of God might be made visible through him. We have to do the works of the one who sent me while it is day. Night is coming when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world." When he had said this, he spat on the ground and made clay with the saliva, and smeared the clay on his eyes, and said to him, "Go wash in the Pool of Siloam" —which means Sent—. So he went and washed, and came back able to see.

 

His neighbors and those who had seen him earlier as a beggar said, "Isn't this the one who used to sit and beg?" Some said, "It is, " but others said, "No, he just looks like him." He said, "I am." So they said to him, "How were your eyes opened?" He replied, "The man called Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes and told me, 'Go to Siloam and wash.' So I went there and washed and was able to see." And they said to him, "Where is he?" He said, "I don't know."

 

They brought the one who was once blind to the Pharisees. Now Jesus had made clay and opened his eyes on a sabbath. So then the Pharisees also asked him how he was able to see. He said to them, "He put clay on my eyes, and I washed, and now I can see." So some of the Pharisees said, "This man is not from God, because he does not keep the sabbath." But others said, "How can a sinful man do such signs?" And there was a division among them. So they said to the blind man again, "What do you have to say about him, since he opened your eyes?" He said, "He is a prophet."

 

Now the Jews did not believe that he had been blind and gained his sight until they summoned the parents of the one who had gained his sight. They asked them, "Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How does he now see?" His parents answered and said, "We know that this is our son and that he was born blind. We do not know how he sees now, nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him, he is of age; he can speak for himself." His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews, for the Jews had already agreed that if anyone acknowledged him as the Christ, he would be expelled from the synagogue. For this reason his parents said, "He is of age; question him."

 

So a second time they called the man who had been blind and said to him, "Give God the praise! We know that this man is a sinner." He replied, "If he is a sinner, I do not know. One thing I do know is that I was blind and now I see." So they said to him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?" He answered them, "I told you already and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?" They ridiculed him and said, "You are that man's disciple; we are disciples of Moses! We know that God spoke to Moses, but we do not know where this one is from." The man answered and said to them, "This is what is so amazing, that you do not know where he is from, yet he opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if one is devout and does his will, he listens to him. It is unheard of that anyone ever opened the eyes of a person born blind. If this man were not from God, he would not be able to do anything." They answered and said to him, "You were born totally in sin, and are you trying to teach us?" Then they threw him out.

 

When Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, he found him and said, "Do you believe in the Son of Man?" He answered and said, "Who is he, sir, that I may believe in him?" Jesus said to him, "You have seen him, the one speaking with you is he." He said, "I do believe, Lord," and he worshiped him. Then Jesus said, "I came into this world for judgment, so that those who do not see might see, and those who do see might become blind."

 

Some of the Pharisees who were with him heard this and said to him, "Surely we are not also blind, are we?" Jesus said to them, "If you were blind, you would have no sin; but now you are saying, 'We see,' so your sin remains.

 

 

MARCH 27, 2017

 

Reading 1 IS 65:17-21

Thus says the LORD: Lo, I am about to create new heavens and a new earth; The things of the past shall not be remembered or come to mind. Instead, there shall always be rejoicing and happiness in what I create; For I create Jerusalem to be a joy and its people to be a delight; I will rejoice in Jerusalem and exult in my people. No longer shall the sound of weeping be heard there, or the sound of crying; No longer shall there be in it an infant who lives but a few days, or an old man who does not round out his full lifetime; He dies a mere youth who reaches but a hundred years, and he who fails of a hundred shall be thought accursed. They shall live in the houses they build, and eat the fruit of the vineyards they plant.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 30:2 AND 4, 5-6, 11-12A AND 13B

R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.

 

I will extol you, O LORD, for you drew me clear and did not let my enemies rejoice over me. O LORD, you brought me up from the nether world; you preserved me from among those going down into the pit.

R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.

 

Sing praise to the LORD, you his faithful ones, and give thanks to his holy name. For his anger lasts but a moment; a lifetime, his good will. At nightfall, weeping enters in, but with the dawn, rejoicing.

R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.

 

"Hear, O LORD, and have pity on me; O LORD, be my helper." You changed my mourning into dancing; O LORD, my God, forever will I give you thanks.

R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.

 

Verse Before The Gospel AM 5:14

Seek good and not evil so that you may live, and the LORD will be with you.

 

Gospel JN 4:43-54

At that time Jesus left [Samaria] for Galilee. For Jesus himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his native place. When he came into Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him, since they had seen all he had done in Jerusalem at the feast; for they themselves had gone to the feast.

 

Then he returned to Cana in Galilee, where he had made the water wine. Now there was a royal official whose son was ill in Capernaum. When he heard that Jesus had arrived in Galilee from Judea, he went to him and asked him to come down and heal his son, who was near death. Jesus said to him, "Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will not believe." The royal official said to him, "Sir, come down before my child dies." Jesus said to him, "You may go; your son will live." The man believed what Jesus said to him and left. While the man was on his way back, his slaves met him and told him that his boy would live. He asked them when he began to recover. They told him, "The fever left him yesterday, about one in the afternoon." The father realized that just at that time Jesus had said to him, "Your son will live," and he and his whole household came to believe. Now this was the second sign Jesus did when he came to Galilee from Judea.

 

MARCH 28, 2017

 

Reading 1 EZ 47:1-9, 12

The angel brought me, Ezekiel, back to the entrance of the temple of the LORD, and I saw water flowing out from beneath the threshold of the temple toward the east, for the façade of the temple was toward the east; the water flowed down from the right side of the temple, south of the altar. He led me outside by the north gate, and around to the outer gate facing the east, where I saw water trickling from the right side. Then when he had walked off to the east with a measuring cord in his hand, he measured off a thousand cubits and had me wade through the water, which was ankle-deep. He measured off another thousand and once more had me wade through the water, which was now knee-deep. Again he measured off a thousand and had me wade; the water was up to my waist. Once more he measured off a thousand, but there was now a river through which I could not wade; for the water had risen so high it had become a river that could not be crossed except by swimming. He asked me, "Have you seen this, son of man?" Then he brought me to the bank of the river, where he had me sit. Along the bank of the river I saw very many trees on both sides. He said to me, "This water flows into the eastern district down upon the Arabah, and empties into the sea, the salt waters, which it makes fresh. Wherever the river flows, every sort of living creature that can multiply shall live, and there shall be abundant fish, for wherever this water comes the sea shall be made fresh. Along both banks of the river, fruit trees of every kind shall grow; their leaves shall not fade, nor their fruit fail. Every month they shall bear fresh fruit, for they shall be watered by the flow from the sanctuary. Their fruit shall serve for food, and their leaves for medicine."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9

R. The Lord of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob.

 

God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in distress. Therefore we fear not, though the earth be shaken and mountains plunge into the depths of the sea.

R. The Lord of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob.

 

There is a stream whose runlets gladden the city of God, the holy dwelling of the Most High. God is in its midst; it shall not be disturbed; God will help it at the break of dawn.

R. The Lord of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob.

 

The LORD of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob. Come! behold the deeds of the LORD, the astounding things he has wrought on earth.

R. The Lord of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob.

 

Verse Before The Gospel PS 51:12A, 14A

A clean heart create for me, O God; give me back the joy of your salvation.

 

Gospel JN 5:1-16

There was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now there is in Jerusalem at the Sheep Gate a pool called in Hebrew Bethesda, with five porticoes. In these lay a large number of ill, blind, lame, and crippled. One man was there who had been ill for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had been ill for a long time, he said to him, "Do you want to be well?" The sick man answered him, "Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; while I am on my way, someone else gets down there before me." Jesus said to him, "Rise, take up your mat, and walk." Immediately the man became well, took up his mat, and walked.

 

Now that day was a sabbath. So the Jews said to the man who was cured, "It is the sabbath, and it is not lawful for you to carry your mat." He answered them, "The man who made me well told me, 'Take up your mat and walk.'" They asked him, "Who is the man who told you, 'Take it up and walk'?" The man who was healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had slipped away, since there was a crowd there. After this Jesus found him in the temple area and said to him, "Look, you are well; do not sin any more, so that nothing worse may happen to you." The man went and told the Jews that Jesus was the one who had made him well. Therefore, the Jews began to persecute Jesus because he did this on a sabbath.

 

MARCH 29, 2017

 

Reading 1 IS 49:8-15

Thus says the LORD: In a time of favor I answer you, on the day of salvation I help you; and I have kept you and given you as a covenant to the people, To restore the land and allot the desolate heritages, Saying to the prisoners: Come out! To those in darkness: Show yourselves! Along the ways they shall find pasture, on every bare height shall their pastures be. They shall not hunger or thirst, nor shall the scorching wind or the sun strike them; For he who pities them leads them and guides them beside springs of water. I will cut a road through all my mountains, and make my highways level. See, some shall come from afar, others from the north and the west, and some from the land of Syene. Sing out, O heavens, and rejoice, O earth, break forth into song, you mountains. For the LORD comforts his people and shows mercy to his afflicted.

 

But Zion said, "The LORD has forsaken me; my Lord has forgotten me." Can a mother forget her infant, be without tenderness for the child of her womb? Even should she forget, I will never forget you.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 145:8-9, 13CD-14, 17-18

R. The Lord is gracious and merciful.

 

The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness. The LORD is good to all and compassionate toward all his works.

R. The Lord is gracious and merciful.

 

The LORD is faithful in all his words and holy in all his works. The LORD lifts up all who are falling and raises up all who are bowed down.

R. The Lord is gracious and merciful.

 

The LORD is just in all his ways and holy in all his works. The LORD is near to all who call upon him, to all who call upon him in truth.

R. The Lord is gracious and merciful.

 

Verse Before The Gospel JN 11:25A, 26

I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord; whoever believes in me will never die.

 

Gospel JN 5:17-30

Jesus answered the Jews: "My Father is at work until now, so I am at work." For this reason they tried all the more to kill him, because he not only broke the sabbath but he also called God his own father, making himself equal to God.

 

Jesus answered and said to them, "Amen, amen, I say to you, the Son cannot do anything on his own, but only what he sees the Father doing; for what he does, the Son will do also. For the Father loves the Son and shows him everything that he himself does, and he will show him greater works than these, so that you may be amazed. For just as the Father raises the dead and gives life, so also does the Son give life to whomever he wishes. Nor does the Father judge anyone, but he has given all judgment to the Son, so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes in the one who sent me has eternal life and will not come to condemnation, but has passed from death to life. Amen, amen, I say to you, the hour is coming and is now here when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. For just as the Father has life in himself, so also he gave to the Son the possession of life in himself. And he gave him power to exercise judgment, because he is the Son of Man. Do not be amazed at this, because the hour is coming in which all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and will come out, those who have done good deeds to the resurrection of life, but those who have done wicked deeds to the resurrection of condemnation.

 

"I cannot do anything on my own; I judge as I hear, and my judgment is just, because I do not seek my own will but the will of the one who sent me."

 

MARCH 30, 2017

Reading 1 EX 32:7-14

The LORD said to Moses, "Go down at once to your people whom you brought out of the land of Egypt, for they have become depraved. They have soon turned aside from the way I pointed out to them, making for themselves a molten calf and worshiping it, sacrificing to it and crying out, 'This is your God, O Israel, who brought you out of the land of Egypt!'" The LORD said to Moses, "I see how stiff-necked this people is. Let me alone, then, that my wrath may blaze up against them to consume them. Then I will make of you a great nation."

 

But Moses implored the LORD, his God, saying, "Why, O LORD, should your wrath blaze up against your own people, whom you brought out of the land of Egypt with such great power and with so strong a hand? Why should the Egyptians say, 'With evil intent he brought them out, that he might kill them in the mountains and exterminate them from the face of the earth'? Let your blazing wrath die down; relent in punishing your people. Remember your servants Abraham, Isaac and Israel, and how you swore to them by your own self, saying, 'I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky; and all this land that I promised, I will give your descendants as their perpetual heritage.'" So the LORD relented in the punishment he had threatened to inflict on his people.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 106:19-20, 21-22, 23

R. Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.

 

Our fathers made a calf in Horeb and adored a molten image; They exchanged their glory for the image of a grass-eating bullock.

R. Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.

 

They forgot the God who had saved them, who had done great deeds in Egypt, Wondrous deeds in the land of Ham, terrible things at the Red Sea.

R. Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.

 

Then he spoke of exterminating them, but Moses, his chosen one, Withstood him in the breach to turn back his destructive wrath.

R. Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.

 

Verse Before The Gospel JN 3:16

God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life.

 

Gospel JN 5:31-47

Jesus said to the Jews: "If I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is not true. But there is another who testifies on my behalf, and I know that the testimony he gives on my behalf is true. You sent emissaries to John, and he testified to the truth. I do not accept human testimony, but I say this so that you may be saved. He was a burning and shining lamp, and for a while you were content to rejoice in his light. But I have testimony greater than John's. The works that the Father gave me to accomplish, these works that I perform testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me. Moreover, the Father who sent me has testified on my behalf. But you have never heard his voice nor seen his form, and you do not have his word remaining in you, because you do not believe in the one whom he has sent. You search the Scriptures, because you think you have eternal life through them; even they testify on my behalf. But you do not want to come to me to have life.

 

"I do not accept human praise; moreover, I know that you do not have the love of God in you. I came in the name of my Father, but you do not accept me; yet if another comes in his own name, you will accept him. How can you believe, when you accept praise from one another and do not seek the praise that comes from the only God? Do not think that I will accuse you before the Father: the one who will accuse you is Moses, in whom you have placed your hope. For if you had believed Moses, you would have believed me, because he wrote about me. But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe my words?"

 

MARCH 31, 2017

Reading 1 WIS 2:1A, 12-22

The wicked said among themselves, thinking not aright: "Let us beset the just one, because he is obnoxious to us; he sets himself against our doings, Reproaches us for transgressions of the law and charges us with violations of our training. He professes to have knowledge of God and styles himself a child of the LORD. To us he is the censure of our thoughts; merely to see him is a hardship for us, Because his life is not like that of others, and different are his ways. He judges us debased; he holds aloof from our paths as from things impure. He calls blest the destiny of the just and boasts that God is his Father. Let us see whether his words be true; let us find out what will happen to him. For if the just one be the son of God, he will defend him and deliver him from the hand of his foes. With revilement and torture let us put him to the test that we may have proof of his gentleness and try his patience. Let us condemn him to a shameful death; for according to his own words, God will take care of him." These were their thoughts, but they erred; for their wickedness blinded them, and they knew not the hidden counsels of God; neither did they count on a recompense of holiness nor discern the innocent souls' reward.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 34:17-18, 19-20, 21 AND 23

R. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.

 

The LORD confronts the evildoers, to destroy remembrance of them from the earth. When the just cry out, the LORD hears them, and from all their distress he rescues them.

R. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.

 

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves. Many are the troubles of the just man, but out of them all the LORD delivers him.

R. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.

 

He watches over all his bones; not one of them shall be broken. The LORD redeems the lives of his servants; no one incurs guilt who takes refuge in him.

R. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.

 

Verse Before The Gospel MT 4:4B

One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.

 

Gospel JN 7:1-2, 10, 25-30

Jesus moved about within Galilee; he did not wish to travel in Judea, because the Jews were trying to kill him. But the Jewish feast of Tabernacles was near.

 

But when his brothers had gone up to the feast, he himself also went up, not openly but as it were in secret.

 

Some of the inhabitants of Jerusalem said, "Is he not the one they are trying to kill? And look, he is speaking openly and they say nothing to him. Could the authorities have realized that he is the Christ? But we know where he is from. When the Christ comes, no one will know where he is from." So Jesus cried out in the temple area as he was teaching and said, "You know me and also know where I am from. Yet I did not come on my own, but the one who sent me, whom you do not know, is true. I know him, because I am from him, and he sent me." So they tried to arrest him, but no one laid a hand upon him, because his hour had not yet come.

 

APRIL 2, 2017

Reading 1 EZ 37:12-14

Thus says the Lord GOD: O my people, I will open your graves and have you rise from them, and bring you back to the land of Israel. Then you shall know that I am the LORD, when I open your graves and have you rise from them, O my people! I will put my spirit in you that you may live, and I will settle you upon your land; thus you shall know that I am the LORD. I have promised, and I will do it, says the LORD.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8

R. With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption.

 

Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD; LORD, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to my voice in supplication.

R. With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption.

 

If you, O LORD, mark iniquities, LORD, who can stand? But with you is forgiveness, that you may be revered.

R. With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption.

 

I trust in the LORD; my soul trusts in his word. More than sentinels wait for the dawn, let Israel wait for the LORD.

R. With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption.

 

For with the LORD is kindness and with him is plenteous redemption; And he will redeem Israel from all their iniquities.

R. With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption.

 

Reading 2 ROM 8:8-11

Brothers and sisters: Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. But you are not in the flesh; on the contrary, you are in the spirit, if only the Spirit of God dwells in you. Whoever does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the spirit is alive because of righteousness. If the Spirit of the one who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, the one who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also, through his Spirit dwelling in you.

 

Verse Before The Gospel JN 11:25A, 26

I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will never die.

 

Gospel JN 11:1-45

Now a man was ill, Lazarus from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. Mary was the one who had anointed the Lord with perfumed oil and dried his feet with her hair; it was her brother Lazarus who was ill. So the sisters sent word to him saying, "Master, the one you love is ill." hen Jesus heard this he said, "This illness is not to end in death, but is for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it." Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So when he heard that he was ill, he remained for two days in the place where he was. Then after this he said to his disciples, "Let us go back to Judea." The disciples said to him, "Rabbi, the Jews were just trying to stone you, and you want to go back there?" Jesus answered, "Are there not twelve hours in a day? If one walks during the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. But if one walks at night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him." He said this, and then told them, "Our friend Lazarus is asleep, but I am going to awaken him." So the disciples said to him, "Master, if he is asleep, he will be saved." But Jesus was talking about his death, while they thought that he meant ordinary sleep. So then Jesus said to them clearly, "Lazarus has died. And I am glad for you that I was not there, that you may believe. Let us go to him." So Thomas, called Didymus, said to his fellow disciples, "Let us also go to die with him."

 

When Jesus arrived, he found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, only about two miles away. And many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them about their brother. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him; but Mary sat at home. Martha said to Jesus, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you." Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise." Martha said to him, "I know he will rise, in the resurrection on the last day." Jesus told her, "I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" She said to him, "Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world."

 

When she had said this, she went and called her sister Mary secretly, saying, "The teacher is here and is asking for you." As soon as she heard this, she rose quickly and went to him. For Jesus had not yet come into the village, but was still where Martha had met him. So when the Jews who were with her in the house comforting her saw Mary get up quickly and go out, they followed her, presuming that she was going to the tomb to weep there. When Mary came to where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said to him, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died." When Jesus saw her weeping and the Jews who had come with her weeping, he became perturbed and deeply troubled, and said, "Where have you laid him?" They said to him, "Sir, come and see." And Jesus wept. So the Jews said, "See how he loved him." But some of them said, "Could not the one who opened the eyes of the blind man have done something so that this man would not have died?"

 

So Jesus, perturbed again, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay across it. Jesus said, "Take away the stone." Martha, the dead man's sister, said to him, "Lord, by now there will be a stench; he has been dead for four days." Jesus said to her, "Did I not tell you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?" So they took away the stone. And Jesus raised his eyes and said, "Father, I thank you for hearing me. I know that you always hear me; but because of the crowd here I have said this, that they may believe that you sent me." And when he had said this, He cried out in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" The dead man came out, tied hand and foot with burial bands, and his face was wrapped in a cloth. So Jesus said to them, "Untie him and let him go."

 

Now many of the Jews who had come to Mary and seen what he had done began to believe in him.

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Ezekiel 37, 12-14

Ito ang sinabi ng Panginoong Diyos: “Magpahayag ka. Sabihin mong ipinasasabi ko: Bayan ko, ibubukas ko ang inyong libingan. Ibabangon ko kayo at iuuwi sa inyong bayan. Kung maibukas ko na ang inyong libingan at maibangon ko kayo, makikilala ninyong ako ang Panginoon. Hihingahan ko kayo upang kayo’y mabuhay, at ibabalik ko kayo sa inyong sariling bayan. Sa gayun, malalaman ninyo na akong Panginoon ang nagsabi nito at aking gagawin.”

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa Roma 8, 8-11

Mga kapatid:

 

Ang mga nabubuhay ayon sa laman ay hindi maaaring kalugdan ng Diyos. Ngunit hindi na kayo namumuhay ayon sa laman kundi ayon sa Espiritu, kung talagang nananahan sa inyo ang Espiritu ng Diyos. Kung ang Espiritu ni Kristo’y wala sa isang tao, hindi siya kay Kristo. Ngunit kung nasa inyo si Kristo, bagamat patay na ang inyong mga katawan dahil sa kasalanan, buhay naman ang inyong espiritu dahil sa pinawalang-sala na kayo. Kung nananahan a inyo ang Espiritu ng Diyos na siyang mulang bumuay kay Hesukristo, ang Diyos ding iyan ang magbibigay ng buhay sa inyong mga katawang mamamatay, sa pamamagitan ng kanyang Espiritung nananahan sa inyo.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 11, 3-7. 17. 20-27. 33b-45

Noong panahong iyon: Nagpasabi kay Hesus ang mga kapatid na babae ni Lazaro, “Panginoon, ang kaibigan mong minamahal ay may sakit.” Ngunit nang marinig ito ni Hesus ay sinabi niya, “Hindi magwawakas sa kamatayan ang sakit na ito. Nangyari ito upang maparangalan ang Diyos at sa pamamagitan nito’y maparangalan ang Anak ng Diyos.”

 

Mahal ni Hesus ang magkakapatid na Marta, Maria at Lazaro. Gayunma’y pinaraan pa niya ang dalawang araw matapos mabalitaang may sakit si Lazaro bago sinabi sa kanyang mga alagad, “Magbalik tayo sa Judea.” Pagdating ni Hesus, nalaman niyang apat na araw nang nakalibing si Lazaro. Nang marinig ni Marta na dumarating si Hesus, sinalubong niya ito; ngunit si Maria’y naiwan sa bahay. Sinabi ni Marta, “Panginoon, kung kayo po’y narito, hindi sana namatay ang aking kapatid. Ngunit nalalaman kong kahit ngayo’y ibibigay sa iyon ng Diyos ang anumang hingin ninyo sa kanya.” “Muling mabubuhay ang iyong kapatid,” wika ni Hesus. Sumagot si Marta, “Nalalaman ko pong siya’y mabubuhay uli sa huling araw, sa muling pagkabuhay.” Sinabi naman ni Hesus, “Ako ang muling pagkabuhay at ang buhay. Ang nananalig sa akin, kahit mamatay ay muling mabubuhay, at sinumang nabubuhay at nananalig sa akin, kahit mamatay ay mabubuhay kailanman. Pinaniniwalaan mo ba ito?” “Opo, Panginoon!” sagot niya. “Nananalig ako sa inyo. Kayo po ang Anak ng

 

Diyos, ang Mesiyas na inaasahang paparito sa sanlibutan.”

 

Si Hesus ay napahimutok. “Saan ninyo siya inilibing?” tanong niya. Sumagot sila, “Panginoon, halikayo at tingnan ninyo.” Tumangis si Hesus; kaya’t sinabi ng mga Judio, “Talagang mahal na mahal niya si Lazaro!” Ngunit sinabi ng ilan, “Nakapagpadilat ng bulag ang taong ito. Bakit hindi niya nahadlangan ang pagkamatay ni Lazaro?”

 

Muling napahimutok si Hesus pagdating sa libingan. Ito’y yungib na natatakpan ng isang bato “Alisin ninyo ang bato,” sabi ni Hesus. Sumagot si Marta, “Panginoon, nangangamoy na po siya ngayon; apat na araw na siyang patay. Sinabi ni Hesus, “Hindi ba sinabi ko sa inyo na kung mananalig ka sa akin ay makikita mo kung gaano kadakila ang Diyos?” At inalis nila ang bato. Tumingala si Hesus at ang wika, “Ama, nagpapasalamat ako sa iyo, sapagkat dininig mo ako. Alam kong lagi mo akong dinirinig. Ngunit sinabi ko ito dahil sa mga taong nasa paligid ko, upang maniwala silang ikaw ang nagsugo sa akin.” Pagkasabi nito, sumigaw siya, “Lazaro, lumabas ka!” Lumabas nga si Lazaro; napupuluputan ng kayong panlibing ang kanyang mga kamay at paa, at nababalot ng panyo ang kanyang mukha. Sinabi ni Hesus sa kanila, “Kalagan ninyo siya, at nang makalaya.”

 

Marami sa mga Judiong dumalaw kay Maria ang nakakita sa ginawa ni Hesus at nanalig sa kanya,

 

 

 

APRIL 3, 2017

 

Reading 1 DN 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62

In Babylon there lived a man named Joakim, who married a very beautiful and God-fearing woman, Susanna, the daughter of Hilkiah; her pious parents had trained their daughter according to the law of Moses. Joakim was very rich; he had a garden near his house, and the Jews had recourse to him often because he was the most respected of them all.

 

That year, two elders of the people were appointed judges, of whom the Lord said, "Wickedness has come out of Babylon: from the elders who were to govern the people as judges." These men, to whom all brought their cases, frequented the house of Joakim. When the people left at noon, Susanna used to enter her husband's garden for a walk. When the old men saw her enter every day for her walk, they began to lust for her. They suppressed their consciences; they would not allow their eyes to look to heaven, and did not keep in mind just judgments.

 

One day, while they were waiting for the right moment, she entered the garden as usual, with two maids only. She decided to bathe, for the weather was warm. Nobody else was there except the two elders, who had hidden themselves and were watching her. "Bring me oil and soap," she said to the maids, "and shut the garden doors while I bathe."

 

As soon as the maids had left, the two old men got up and hurried to her. "Look," they said, "the garden doors are shut, and no one can see us; give in to our desire, and lie with us. If you refuse, we will testify against you that you dismissed your maids because a young man was here with you."

 

"I am completely trapped," Susanna groaned. "If I yield, it will be my death; if I refuse, I cannot escape your power. Yet it is better for me to fall into your power without guilt than to sin before the Lord." Then Susanna shrieked, and the old men also shouted at her, as one of them ran to open the garden doors. When the people in the house heard the cries from the garden, they rushed in by the side gate to see what had happened to her. At the accusations by the old men, the servants felt very much ashamed, for never had any such thing been said about Susanna.

 

When the people came to her husband Joakim the next day, the two wicked elders also came, fully determined to put Susanna to death. Before all the people they ordered: "Send for Susanna, the daughter of Hilkiah, the wife of Joakim." When she was sent for, she came with her parents, children and all her relatives. All her relatives and the onlookers were weeping.

 

In the midst of the people the two elders rose up and laid their hands on her head. Through tears she looked up to heaven, for she trusted in the Lord wholeheartedly. The elders made this accusation: "As we were walking in the garden alone, this woman entered with two girls and shut the doors of the garden, dismissing the girls. A young man, who was hidden there, came and lay with her. When we, in a corner of the garden, saw this crime, we ran toward them. We saw them lying together, but the man we could not hold, because he was stronger than we; he opened the doors and ran off. Then we seized her and asked who the young man was, but she refused to tell us. We testify to this." The assembly believed them, since they were elders and judges of the people, and they condemned her to death.

 

But Susanna cried aloud: "O eternal God, you know what is hidden and are aware of all things before they come to be: you know that they have testified falsely against me. Here I am about to die, though I have done none of the things with which these wicked men have charged me."

 

The Lord heard her prayer. As she was being led to execution, God stirred up the holy spirit of a young boy named Daniel, and he cried aloud: "I will have no part in the death of this woman." All the people turned and asked him, "What is this you are saying?" He stood in their midst and continued, "Are you such fools, O children of Israel! To condemn a woman of Israel without examination and without clear evidence? Return to court, for they have testified falsely against her."

 

Then all the people returned in haste. To Daniel the elders said, "Come, sit with us and inform us, since God has given you the prestige of old age." But he replied, "Separate these two far from each other that I may examine them."

 

After they were separated one from the other, he called one of them and said: "How you have grown evil with age! Now have your past sins come to term: passing unjust sentences, condemning the innocent, and freeing the guilty, although the Lord says, 'The innocent and the just you shall not put to death.' Now, then, if you were a witness, tell me under what tree you saw them together." "Under a mastic tree," he answered. Daniel replied, "Your fine lie has cost you your head, for the angel of God shall receive the sentence from him and split you in two." Putting him to one side, he ordered the other one to be brought. Daniel said to him, "Offspring of Canaan, not of Judah, beauty has seduced you, lust has subverted your conscience. This is how you acted with the daughters of Israel, and in their fear they yielded to you; but a daughter of Judah did not tolerate your wickedness. Now, then, tell me under what tree you surprised them together." "Under an oak," he said. Daniel replied, "Your fine lie has cost you also your head, for the angel of God waits with a sword to cut you in two so as to make an end of you both."

 

The whole assembly cried aloud, blessing God who saves those who hope in him. They rose up against the two elders, for by their own words Daniel had convicted them of perjury. According to the law of Moses, they inflicted on them the penalty they had plotted to impose on their neighbor: they put them to death. Thus was innocent blood spared that day.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 23:1-3A, 3B-4, 5, 6

R. Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side.

 

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. In verdant pastures he gives me repose; Beside restful waters he leads me; he refreshes my soul.

R. Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side.

 

He guides me in right paths for his name's sake. Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side With your rod and your staff that give me courage.

R. Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side.

 

You spread the table before me in the sight of my foes; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

R. Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side.

 

Only goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life; And I shall dwell in the house of the LORD for years to come.

R. Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side.

 

Verse Before The Gospel EZ 33:11

I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked man, says the Lord, but rather in his conversion, that he may live.

 

Gospel JN 8:1-11

Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. But early in the morning he arrived again in the temple area, and all the people started coming to him, and he sat down and taught them. Then the scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery and made her stand in the middle. They said to him, "Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery. Now in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?" They said this to test him, so that they could have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and began to write on the ground with his finger. But when they continued asking him, he straightened up and said to them, "Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her." Again he bent down and wrote on the ground. And in response, they went away one by one, beginning with the elders. So he was left alone with the woman before him. Then Jesus straightened up and said to her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" She replied, "No one, sir." Then Jesus said, "Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on do not sin any more."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Daniel 13, 41k-62

Noong mga araw na iyon, ang mga tao ay nagkaisang parusahan ng kamatayan si Susana. Dahil dito, malakas at umiiyak na sinabi ni Susana, “Diyos na Walang Hanggan, nalalaman mo po ang lahat ng lihim at nakikita ang lahat ng bagay bago pa mangyari. Alam mo pong walang katotohanan ang ibinibintang nila sa akin. Hindi ko ginagawa kailanman ang ipinararatang nila sa akin. Bakit ako kailangang mamatay.?”

 

Dininig ng Diyos ang kanyang dalangin. Nang si Susana ay dinadala na sa pagpapatayan sa kanya, isang binatang nagngangalang Daniel ang malakas na tumutol. “Ayokong mapabilang sa magbububo ng dugo ng babaing ito,” sabi niya.

 

Tinanong siya ng mga tao, “Ano ang ibig mong sabihin, binata?”

 

Lumapit sa unahan ang binata at nagpatuloy ng pagsasalita, “Mga Israelita, hangal ba kayo at hinatulan ninyo ang babaing ito nang di muna sinisiyasat at maingat na sinasaliksik ang katotohanan? Kailangang ulitin ang paglilitis; walang katotohanan ang katibayang inilahad ng dalawang iyan.”

 

Nagdudumaling bumalik ang mga tao. Sinabi ng mga pinuno, “Daniel, yamang binigyan ka ng Diyos ng karunungang gaya ng sa isang matanda, halika at sumama ka sa amin sa paghatol sa usaping ito.”

 

Pagkatapos, nagsalita si Daniel, “Paglayuin ninyo ang dalawang hukom at magkahiwalay ko silang sisiyasatin.” Nang mapaglayo na sila, tinawag ni Daniel ang isa at sinabi, “Matandang walang pinagkatandaan! Inilalantad ka na ng maraming kasalanang ginawa mo. Hindi makatarungan ang mga hatol na iginagawad mo; pinarurusahan mo ang walang kasalanan at pinalalaya ang talagang nagkasala. Di ba sinabi ng Diyos: ‘Huwag ninyong parurusahan ng kamatayan ang walang sala?’ Kung talagang nakita mo ang ipinararatang mo sa babaing ito, sabihin mo sa amin: sa ilalim ng anong puno sila nagtatalik nang matutop ninyo?”

 

Sumagot siya, “Sa ilalim ng punong hati.”

 

Sinabi ni Daniel, “A, gayun! Buhay mo ang kapalit ng iyong sagot, pagkat ibinigay na ng Diyos sa kanyang anghel ang parusa mo, at hahatiin ka sa dalawa.”

 

Inilayo siya roon, at ipinatawag ang kanyang kasama. Paglapit nito, sinabi ni Daniel, “Ikaw naman, anak ni Canaan, hindi ka tunay na Judio. Binihag ng alindog ng babae ang iyong isip at inalipin ng kahalayan ang iyong puso. Alam na namin ngayon ang ginagawa mo sa kababaihan ng Israel. Tinatakot mo sila para pagbigyan ang iyong kahalayan. Subalit narito ang isang babae ng Juda na hindi natakot sa iyong kaimbihan! Sabihin mo: sa ilalim ng anong puno ninyo nakita ang inyong pinagbibintangan?”

 

At sumagot ang matanda, “Sa ilalim ng punong putol.”

 

“A, gayun!” pakli naman ni Daniel. “Buhay mo ang katumbas ng kasinungalingang ito, pagkat naghihintay na ang anghel ng Diyos upang putulin ka sa pamamagitan ng tabak.”

 

Dahil dito, nagsigawan sa tuwa ang lahat ng nakasaksi at nagpuri sila sa Diyos sapagkat inililigtas niya ang mga nagtitiwala sa kanya.. Binalingan nia ang dalawang hukom matapos patunayan ni Daniel na sila’y nagsisinungaling at nanumpa nang di totoo. Hinatulan silang mamatay. Ayon sa Kautusan ni Moises, ang nagparatang nang di totoo ay siyang lalapatan ng parusang nakatakda sa kasalang ipinaratang niya. Naligtas nga sa kamatayan ang isang taong walang kasalanan.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 8, 1-11

Si Jesus naman ay pumunta sa Bundok ng mga Olibo. Kinabukasan, maaga pa'y nagbalik na siya sa Templo. Lumapit sa kanya ang lahat ng mga tao. Umupo siya at nagsimulang magturo. Dumating noon ang mga tagapagturo ng Kautusan at mga Pariseo na may dalang isang babaing nahuli sa pangangalunya. Iniharap nila ito sa karamihan, at sinabi kay Jesus, “Guro, ang babaing ito'y nahuli sa aktong pangangalunya. Ayon sa Kautusan ni Moises, dapat batuhin hanggang sa mamatay ang mga katulad niya. Ano naman ang masasabi ninyo?” Itinanong nila ito upang subukin siya, at nang may maiparatang sila laban sa kanya.

 

Ngunit yumuko lamang si Jesus at sumulat sa lupa sa pamamagitan ng daliri.

 

Patuloy sila sa pagtatanong kaya't tumayo si Jesus at nagsalita, “Ang sinuman sa inyo na walang kasalanan ang siyang maunang bumato sa kanya.” At muli siyang yumuko at sumulat sa lupa.

 

Nang marinig nila iyon, sila'y isa-isang umalis, simula sa pinakamatanda. Iniwan nila ang babaing nakatayo sa harap ni Jesus. Tumayo si Jesus at tinanong ang babae, “Nasaan sila? Wala na bang humahatol sa iyo?”

 

“Wala po, Ginoo,” sagot ng babae.

 

 

APRIL 4, 2017

 

Reading 1 NM 21:4-9

From Mount Hor the children of Israel set out on the Red Sea road, to bypass the land of Edom. But with their patience worn out by the journey, the people complained against God and Moses, "Why have you brought us up from Egypt to die in this desert, where there is no food or water? We are disgusted with this wretched food!"

 

In punishment the LORD sent among the people saraph serpents, which bit the people so that many of them died. Then the people came to Moses and said, "We have sinned in complaining against the LORD and you. Pray the LORD to take the serpents away from us." So Moses prayed for the people, and the LORD said to Moses, "Make a saraph and mount it on a pole, and whoever looks at it after being bitten will live." Moses accordingly made a bronze serpent and mounted it on a pole, and whenever anyone who had been bitten by a serpent looked at the bronze serpent, he lived.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 102:2-3, 16-18, 19-21

R. O Lord, hear my prayer, and let my cry come to you.

 

O LORD, hear my prayer, and let my cry come to you. Hide not your face from me in the day of my distress. Incline your ear to me; in the day when I call, answer me speedily.

R. O Lord, hear my prayer, and let my cry come to you.

 

The nations shall revere your name, O LORD, and all the kings of the earth your glory, When the LORD has rebuilt Zion and appeared in his glory; When he has regarded the prayer of the destitute, and not despised their prayer.

R. O Lord, hear my prayer, and let my cry come to you.

 

Let this be written for the generation to come, and let his future creatures praise the LORD: "The LORD looked down from his holy height, from heaven he beheld the earth, To hear the groaning of the prisoners, to release those doomed to die."

R. O Lord, hear my prayer, and let my cry come to you.

 

Verse Before The Gospel

The seed is the word of God, Christ is the sower; all who come to him will live for ever.

 

Gospel JN 8:21-30

Jesus said to the Pharisees: "I am going away and you will look for me, but you will die in your sin. Where I am going you cannot come." So the Jews said, "He is not going to kill himself, is he, because he said, 'Where I am going you cannot come'?" He said to them, "You belong to what is below, I belong to what is above. You belong to this world, but I do not belong to this world. That is why I told you that you will die in your sins. For if you do not believe that I AM, you will die in your sins." So they said to him, "Who are you?" Jesus said to them, "What I told you from the beginning. I have much to say about you in condemnation. But the one who sent me is true, and what I heard from him I tell the world." They did not realize that he was speaking to them of the Father. So Jesus said to them, "When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will realize that I AM, and that I do nothing on my own, but I say only what the Father taught me. The one who sent me is with me. He has not left me alone, because I always do what is pleasing to him." Because he spoke this way, many came to believe in him.

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Bilang 21, 4-9

Mula sa Bundok ng Hor, nagpatuloy ang mga Israelita patungong Dagat na Pula upang iwasan ang Edom. Subalit nainip sila sa pasikut-sikot na paglalakbay. Nagreklamo sila sa Diyos at kay Moises, “Inilabas mo ba kami sa Egipto upang mamatay lamang sa ilang na ito? Wala kaming makain ni mainom! Suyang-suya na kami sa walang kuwentang pagkaing ito.” Dahil dito, pinadalhan sila ni Yahweh ng mga makamandag na ahas at maraming Israelita ang natuklaw ng mga ito at namatay. Kaya, lumapit sila kay Moises. Sinabi nila, “Nagkasala kami kay Yahweh at sa iyo. Ipanalangin mo kami na kanyang paalisin ang mga ahas na ito.” Nanalangin nga si Moises para sa Israel at ganito ang sagot sa kanya ni Yahweh: “Gumawa ka ng isang ahas na tanso. Ilagay mo iyon sa dulo ng isang mahabang kahoy. Sinumang natuklaw ng ahas at tumingin doon ay hindi mamamatay.” Ganoon nga ang ginawa ni Moises. Kaya lahat ng natuklaw ng ahas ay tumitingin sa ahas na tanso at hindi nga namamatay.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 8, 21-30

Muling sinabi ni Jesus sa kanila, “Ako'y aalis at hahanapin ninyo ako; ngunit hindi kayo makakapunta sa pupuntahan ko. Mamamatay kayo sa inyong mga kasalanan.”

 

Nag-usap-usap ang mga Judio, “Magpapakamatay kaya siya kaya niya sinabing ‘Hindi kayo makakapunta sa pupuntahan ko’?”

 

Kaya't sinabi ni Jesus, “Kayo'y mula dito sa ibaba, ako'y mula sa itaas. Kayo'y taga-sanlibutang ito, ngunit ako'y hindi. Sinabi ko sa inyong mamamatay kayo sa inyong mga kasalanan. Kung hindi kayo maniniwalang ‘Ako'y Ako Nga’, mamamatay kayo sa inyong mga kasalanan.”

 

“Sino ka nga bang talaga?” tanong nila.

 

Sumagot si Jesus, “Sinabi ko na sa inyo noong simula pa lamang kung sino ako. Marami akong masasabi at maihahatol laban sa inyo. Ngunit totoo at dapat paniwalaan ang nagsugo sa akin, at ang narinig ko sa kanya ang ipinapahayag ko sa sanlibutan.”

 

Hindi nila nauunawaan na ang Ama ang tinutukoy niya. Kaya't sinabi ni Jesus, “Kapag naitaas na ninyo ang Anak ng Tao, malalaman ninyong ‘Ako'y Ako Nga.’ Wala akong ginagawa batay sa sarili kong kapangyarihan. Ang ipinapasabi lamang ng Ama ang siya kong sinasabi, at kasama ko ang nagsugo sa akin at hindi niya ako iniiwan, sapagkat lagi kong ginagawa ang kalugud-lugod sa kanya.”

 

Maraming nakarinig nito ang naniwala sa kanya.

 

 

APRIL 5, 2017

 

Reading 1 DN 3:14-20, 91-92, 95

King Nebuchadnezzar said: "Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you will not serve my god, or worship the golden statue that I set up? Be ready now to fall down and worship the statue I had made, whenever you hear the sound of the trumpet, flute, lyre, harp, psaltery, bagpipe, and all the other musical instruments; otherwise, you shall be instantly cast into the white-hot furnace; and who is the God who can deliver you out of my hands?" Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered King Nebuchadnezzar, "There is no need for us to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If our God, whom we serve, can save us from the white-hot furnace and from your hands, O king, may he save us! But even if he will not, know, O king, that we will not serve your god or worship the golden statue that you set up."

 

King Nebuchadnezzar's face became livid with utter rage against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. He ordered the furnace to be heated seven times more than usual and had some of the strongest men in his army bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and cast them into the white-hot furnace.

 

Nebuchadnezzar rose in haste and asked his nobles, "Did we not cast three men bound into the fire?" "Assuredly, O king," they answered. "But," he replied, "I see four men unfettered and unhurt, walking in the fire, and the fourth looks like a son of God." Nebuchadnezzar exclaimed, "Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who sent his angel to deliver the servants who trusted in him; they disobeyed the royal command and yielded their bodies rather than serve or worship any god except their own God."

 

Responsorial Psalm DN 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56

R. Glory and praise for ever!

 

"Blessed are you, O Lord, the God of our fathers, praiseworthy and exalted above all forever; And blessed is your holy and glorious name, praiseworthy and exalted above all for all ages."

R. Glory and praise for ever!

 

"Blessed are you in the temple of your holy glory, praiseworthy and exalted above all forever.

R. Glory and praise for ever!

 

"Blessed are you on the throne of your kingdom, praiseworthy and exalted above all forever."

R. Glory and praise for ever!

 

"Blessed are you who look into the depths from your throne upon the cherubim; praiseworthy and exalted above all forever."

R. Glory and praise for ever!

 

"Blessed are you in the firmament of heaven, praiseworthy and glorious forever."

R. Glory and praise for ever!

 

Verse Before The Gospel SEE LK 8:15

Blessed are they who have kept the word with a generous heart and yield a harvest through perseverance.

 

Gospel JN 8:31-42

Jesus said to those Jews who believed in him, "If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." They answered him, "We are descendants of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How can you say, 'You will become free'?" Jesus answered them, "Amen, amen, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave of sin. A slave does not remain in a household forever, but a son always remains. So if the Son frees you, then you will truly be free. I know that you are descendants of Abraham. But you are trying to kill me, because my word has no room among you. I tell you what I have seen in the Father's presence; then do what you have heard from the Father."

 

They answered and said to him, "Our father is Abraham." Jesus said to them, "If you were Abraham's children, you would be doing the works of Abraham. But now you are trying to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God; Abraham did not do this. You are doing the works of your father!" So they said to him, "We were not born of fornication. We have one Father, God." Jesus said to them, "If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and am here; I did not come on my own, but he sent me."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Daniel 3, 14-20

Sinabi niya, “Shadrac, Meshac, at Abednego, totoo bang hindi kayo naglilingkod sa aking mga diyos ni sumasamba sa rebultong ginto na aking ipinagawa? Iniuutos ko sa inyong lumuhod kayo at sumamba sa ipinagawa kong rebulto sa sandaling marinig ninyo ang tunog ng mga instrumento. Kung hindi, ipahahagis ko kayo sa naglalagablab na pugon. Sa palagay ba ninyo'y may diyos na makakapagligtas sa inyo mula sa aking kapangyarihan?”

 

Sinabi nina Shadrac, Meshac at Abednego, “Mahal na haring Nebucadnezar, wala po kaming masasabi sa inyo tungkol sa bagay na ito. Gawin ninyo kung iyan ang gusto ninyo. Ang Diyos na aming pinaglilingkuran ang magliligtas sa amin sa naglalagablab na pugon at mula sa inyong kapangyarihan. Kung hindi man niya kami iligtas, hindi pa rin kami maglilingkod sa inyong mga diyos ni sasamba sa rebultong ginto na ipinagawa ninyo.”

 

Namula ang mukha ni Haring Nebucadnezar sa tindi ng galit kina Shadrac, Meshac at Abednego. Kaya, iniutos niyang painitin pa ng pitong ulit ang pugon. Inutusan din niya ang ilan sa mga pinakamalakas niyang kawal na gapusin sina Shadrac, Meshac at Abednego at ihagis sa naglalagablab na pugon.

 

Mabuting Balita  Juan 8, 31-42

Sinabi naman ni Jesus sa mga Judiong naniniwala sa kanya, “Kung patuloy kayong susunod sa aking turo, kayo nga'y tunay na mga alagad ko. Makikilala ninyo ang katotohanan, at ang katotohanan ang magpapalaya sa inyo.”

 

Sumagot sila, “Kami ay mula sa lahi ni Abraham, at kailanma'y hindi kami naalipin ninuman. Paano mo masasabing palalayain kami?”

 

Sumagot si Jesus, “Pakatandaan ninyo: ang gumagawa ng kasalanan ay alipin ng kasalanan. Ang alipin ay hindi kabilang sa pamilya sa habang panahon, subalit ang anak ay kabilang magpakailanman. Kung ang Anak ang magpalaya sa inyo, kayo nga'y magiging tunay na malaya. Alam kong kayo'y mula sa lahi ni Abraham, gayunma'y pinagsisikapan ninyo akong patayin, sapagkat ayaw ninyong tanggapin ang aking turo. Ang nakita ko sa aking Ama ang siya kong sinasabi sa inyo, at ang narinig ninyo sa inyong ama ang siya namang ginagawa ninyo.”

 

Sumagot sila, “Si Abraham ang aming ama.”

 

Sinabi sa kanila ni Jesus, “Kung kayo'y tunay na mga anak ni Abraham, gagawin sana ninyo ang kanyang ginawa. Sinasabi ko lang ang katotohanang narinig ko mula sa Diyos ngunit pinagsisikapan ninyong ako'y patayin. Hindi ganoon ang ginawa ni Abraham. Ang ginagawa ninyo'y tulad ng ginawa ng inyong ama.”

 

Sumagot sila, “Hindi kami mga anak sa labas. Iisa ang aming Ama, ang Diyos.”

 

Sinabi ni Jesus, “Kung talagang ang Diyos ang inyong Ama, inibig sana ninyo ako, sapagkat sa Diyos ako nanggaling. Hindi ako naparito sa sarili kong kagustuhan, kundi isinugo niya ako.

 

 

APRIL 6, 2017

Reading 1 GN 17:3-9

When Abram prostrated himself, God spoke to him: "My covenant with you is this: you are to become the father of a host of nations. No longer shall you be called Abram; your name shall be Abraham, for I am making you the father of a host of nations. I will render you exceedingly fertile; I will make nations of you; kings shall stem from you. I will maintain my covenant with you and your descendants after you throughout the ages as an everlasting pact, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you. I will give to you and to your descendants after you the land in which you are now staying, the whole land of Canaan, as a permanent possession; and I will be their God."

 

God also said to Abraham: "On your part, you and your descendants after you must keep my covenant throughout the ages."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 105:4-5, 6-7, 8-9

R. The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.

 

Look to the LORD in his strength; seek to serve him constantly. Recall the wondrous deeds that he has wrought, his portents, and the judgments he has uttered.

R. The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.

 

You descendants of Abraham, his servants, sons of Jacob, his chosen ones! He, the LORD, is our God; throughout the earth his judgments prevail.

R. The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.

 

He remembers forever his covenant which he made binding for a thousand generations – Which he entered into with Abraham and by his oath to Isaac.

R. The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.

 

Verse Before The Gospel PS 95:8

If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.

 

Gospel JN 8:51-59

Jesus said to the Jews: "Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever keeps my word will never see death." So the Jews said to him, "Now we are sure that you are possessed. Abraham died, as did the prophets, yet you say, 'Whoever keeps my word will never taste death.' Are you greater than our father Abraham, who died? Or the prophets, who died? Who do you make yourself out to be?" Jesus answered, "If I glorify myself, my glory is worth nothing; but it is my Father who glorifies me, of whom you say, 'He is our God.' You do not know him, but I know him. And if I should say that I do not know him, I would be like you a liar. But I do know him and I keep his word. Abraham your father rejoiced to see my day; he saw it and was glad." So the Jews said to him, "You are not yet fifty years old and you have seen Abraham?" Jesus said to them, "Amen, amen, I say to you, before Abraham came to be, I AM." So they picked up stones to throw at him; but Jesus hid and went out of the temple area.

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 17, 3-9

Pagkarinig nito'y nagpatirapa si Abram. Sinabi pa sa kanya ng Diyos, “Ito ang aking tipan sa iyo: Ikaw ay magiging ama ng maraming bansa. Hindi na Abram ang itatawag sa iyo kundi Abraham,[a] sapagkat ngayo'y ginagawa kitang ama ng maraming bansa. Pararamihin ko nga ang iyong lahi at magtatatag sila ng mga bansa; at may magiging hari sa kanila.

 

“Tutuparin ko ang aking pangako sa iyo at sa iyong lahi habang panahon, at ako'y magiging Diyos ninyo. Ibibigay ko sa iyo at sa iyong magiging lahi ang lupaing ito ng Canaan na iyong tinitirhan ngayon bilang isang dayuhan. Ito ang magiging pag-aari nila sa habang panahon, at ako ang kanilang magiging Diyos.”

 

Sinabi pa ng Diyos kay Abraham, “Ikaw at ang lahat ng susunod mong salinlahi ay dapat maging tapat sa ating kasunduan.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 8, 51-59

Pakatandaan ninyo: ang tumutupad ng aking salita ay hindi mamamatay kailanman.”

 

Sinabi ng mga Judio, “Ngayo'y natitiyak naming sinasapian ka nga ng demonyo. Namatay si Abraham at ang mga propeta, ngunit sinasabi mong hindi mamamatay kailanman ang sinumang tumutupad ng iyong aral. Mas magaling ka pa ba kaysa sa aming amang si Abraham? Siya'y namatay, gayundin ang mga propeta. Ano ba ang palagay mo sa iyong sarili?”

 

Sumagot si Jesus, “Kung ako ang nagpaparangal sa aking sarili, walang kabuluhan iyon. Ang nagpaparangal sa akin ay ang aking Ama na sinasabi ninyong Diyos ninyo. Hindi ninyo siya kilala, ngunit siya'y kilala ko. Kung sasabihin kong hindi ko siya kilala, ako'y magiging sinungaling na tulad ninyo. Subalit kilala ko siya at tinutupad ko ang kanyang salita. Natuwa ang inyong amang si Abraham nang malaman niyang makikita niya ang araw ng aking pagdating. Nakita nga niya ito at siya'y nagalak.”

 

Dahil dito'y sinabi sa kanya ng mga Judio, “Wala ka pang limampung taong gulang, paano mo masasabing nakita mo na si Abraham?”

 

Sumagot si Jesus, “Pakatandaan ninyo: bago pa ipinanganak si Abraham, ‘Ako ay Ako Na’.”

 

Nagsidampot sila ng bato upang siya'y batuhin, ngunit nagtago si Jesus at lumabas ng Templo.

 

 

APRIL 7, 2017

Reading 1 JER 20:10-13

I hear the whisperings of many: "Terror on every side! Denounce! let us denounce him!" All those who were my friends are on the watch for any misstep of mine. "Perhaps he will be trapped; then we can prevail, and take our vengeance on him." But the LORD is with me, like a mighty champion: my persecutors will stumble, they will not triumph. In their failure they will be put to utter shame, to lasting, unforgettable confusion. O LORD of hosts, you who test the just, who probe mind and heart, Let me witness the vengeance you take on them, for to you I have entrusted my cause. Sing to the LORD, praise the LORD, For he has rescued the life of the poor from the power of the wicked!

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 18:2-3A, 3BC-4, 5-6, 7

R. In my distress I called upon the Lord, and he heard my voice.

 

I love you, O LORD, my strength, O LORD, my rock, my fortress, my deliverer.

R. In my distress I called upon the Lord, and he heard my voice.

 

My God, my rock of refuge, my shield, the horn of my salvation, my stronghold! Praised be the LORD, I exclaim, and I am safe from my enemies.

R. In my distress I called upon the Lord, and he heard my voice.

 

The breakers of death surged round about me, the destroying floods overwhelmed me; The cords of the nether world enmeshed me, the snares of death overtook me.

R. In my distress I called upon the Lord, and he heard my voice.

 

In my distress I called upon the LORD and cried out to my God; From his temple he heard my voice, and my cry to him reached his ears.

R. In my distress I called upon the Lord, and he heard my voice.

 

Verse Before The Gospel SEE JN 6:63C, 68C

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of everlasting life.

 

Gospel JN 10:31-42

The Jews picked up rocks to stone Jesus. Jesus answered them, "I have shown you many good works from my Father. For which of these are you trying to stone me?" The Jews answered him, "We are not stoning you for a good work but for blasphemy. You, a man, are making yourself God." Jesus answered them, "Is it not written in your law, 'I said, 'You are gods"'? If it calls them gods to whom the word of God came, and Scripture cannot be set aside, can you say that the one whom the Father has consecrated and sent into the world blasphemes because I said, 'I am the Son of God'? If I do not perform my Father's works, do not believe me; but if I perform them, even if you do not believe me, believe the works, so that you may realize and understand that the Father is in me and I am in the Father." Then they tried again to arrest him; but he escaped from their power.

 

He went back across the Jordan to the place where John first baptized, and there he remained. Many came to him and said, "John performed no sign, but everything John said about this man was true." And many there began to believe in him.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Jeremias 20, 10-13

Naririnig kong maraming nagbubulungan.

 

Tinagurian nila akong “Takot sa Lahat ng Dako.”

 

Sinasabi nila, “Isumbong natin! Isumbong natin sa may kapangyarihan!”

 

Pati matatalik kong kaibiga'y naghahangad ng aking kapahamakan.

 

Sabi pa nila, “Marahil ay malilinlang natin siya;

 

pagkatapos, hulihin natin at paghigantihan.”

 

Subalit ikaw, Yahweh, ay nasa panig ko,

 

tulad sa malakas at makapangyarihang mandirigma;

 

mabibigo ang lahat ng umuusig sa akin,

 

mapapahiya sila at hindi magtatagumpay kailanman.

 

Hindi na makakalimutan ang kanilang kahihiyan habang panahon.

 

Makatarungan ka kung sumubok sa mga tao, Yahweh, na Makapangyarihan sa lahat,

 

alam mo ang laman ng kanilang mga puso't isip.

 

Kaya ikaw ang maghiganti sa mga kaaway ko,

 

ipinagkakatiwala ko sa mga kamay mo ang aking kapakanan.

 

Awitan ninyo si Yahweh,

 

siya'y inyong papurihan,

 

sapagkat inililigtas niya ang mga api mula sa kamay ng mga gumagawa ng kasamaan.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 10, 31-42

Muling dumampot ng bato ang mga Judio upang batuhin si Jesus. Kaya't sinabi niya sa kanila, “Marami akong ipinakita sa inyo na mabubuting gawa mula sa Ama. Alin sa mga ito ang dahilan at ako'y inyong babatuhin?”

 

Sumagot ang mga Judio, “Hindi dahil sa mabubuting gawa kaya ka namin babatuhin, kundi dahil sa paglapastangan mo sa Diyos! Sapagkat ipinapantay mo ang iyong sarili sa Diyos, gayong tao ka lamang.”

 

Tumugon si Jesus, “Hindi ba nasusulat sa inyong Kautusan, ‘Sinabi ko, mga diyos kayo’? Tinawag na diyos ang mga pinagkatiwalaan ng salita ng Diyos, at hindi maaaring ipawalang-bisa ang sinasabi ng kasulatan. Ako'y pinili at isinugo ng Ama; paano ninyo ngayon masasabing nilalapastangan ko ang Diyos dahil sa sinabi kong ako ang Anak ng Diyos? Kung hindi ko ginagawa ang mga ipinapagawa ng aking Ama, huwag ninyo akong paniwalaan. Ngunit kung ginagawa ko ang mga ito, paniwalaan ninyo ang aking mga gawa kung ayaw man ninyong maniwala sa akin. Sa gayon, matitiyak ninyong nasa akin ang Ama at ako'y nasa Ama.”

 

Kaya't tinangka na naman nilang dakpin si Jesus, ngunit natakasan niya sila.

 

Muling pumunta si Jesus sa ibayo ng Jordan, sa pook na dating pinagbabautismuhan ni Juan. Nanatili siya roon at maraming lumapit sa kanya. Sinabi nila, “Walang ginawang himala si Juan ngunit totoo ang lahat ng sinabi niya tungkol sa taong ito.”

 

At doo'y maraming sumampalataya kay Jesus.

 

 

APRIL 8, 2017

Reading 1 EZ 37:21-28

Thus says the Lord GOD: I will take the children of Israel from among the nations to which they have come, and gather them from all sides to bring them back to their land. I will make them one nation upon the land, in the mountains of Israel, and there shall be one prince for them all. Never again shall they be two nations, and never again shall they be divided into two kingdoms.

 

No longer shall they defile themselves with their idols, their abominations, and all their transgressions. I will deliver them from all their sins of apostasy, and cleanse them so that they may be my people and I may be their God. My servant David shall be prince over them, and there shall be one shepherd for them all; they shall live by my statutes and carefully observe my decrees. They shall live on the land that I gave to my servant Jacob, the land where their fathers lived; they shall live on it forever, they, and their children, and their children's children, with my servant David their prince forever. I will make with them a covenant of peace; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them, and I will multiply them, and put my sanctuary among them forever. My dwelling shall be with them; I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Thus the nations shall know that it is I, the LORD, who make Israel holy, when my sanctuary shall be set up among them forever.

 

Responsorial Psalm JER 31:10, 11-12ABCD, 13

R. The Lord will guard us, as a shepherd guards his flock.

 

Hear the word of the LORD, O nations, proclaim it on distant isles, and say: He who scattered Israel, now gathers them together, he guards them as a shepherd his flock.

R. The Lord will guard us, as a shepherd guards his flock.

 

The LORD shall ransom Jacob, he shall redeem him from the hand of his conqueror. Shouting, they shall mount the heights of Zion, they shall come streaming to the LORD's blessings: The grain, the wine, and the oil, the sheep and the oxen.

R. The Lord will guard us, as a shepherd guards his flock.

 

Then the virgins shall make merry and dance, and young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into joy, I will console and gladden them after their sorrows.

R. The Lord will guard us, as a shepherd guards his flock.

 

Verse Before The Gospel EZ 18:31

Cast away from you all the crimes you have committed, says the LORD, and make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit.

 

Gospel JN 11:45-56

Many of the Jews who had come to Mary and seen what Jesus had done began to believe in him. But some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. So the chief priests and the Pharisees convened the Sanhedrin and said, "What are we going to do? This man is performing many signs. If we leave him alone, all will believe in him, and the Romans will come and take away both our land and our nation." But one of them, Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them, "You know nothing, nor do you consider that it is better for you that one man should die instead of the people, so that the whole nation may not perish." He did not say this on his own, but since he was high priest for that year, he prophesied that Jesus was going to die for the nation, and not only for the nation, but also to gather into one the dispersed children of God. So from that day on they planned to kill him.

 

So Jesus no longer walked about in public among the Jews, but he left for the region near the desert, to a town called Ephraim, and there he remained with his disciples.

 

Now the Passover of the Jews was near, and many went up from the country to Jerusalem before Passover to purify themselves. They looked for Jesus and said to one another as they were in the temple area, "What do you think? That he will not come to the feast?"

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Ezekiel 37, 21-28

At sabihin mo sa kanila, Ganito ang sabi ng Panginoong Dios: Narito, aking kukunin ang mga anak ni Israel mula sa gitna ng mga bansa, na kanilang pinaroonan, at pipisanin ko sila sa lahat ng dako, at dadalhin ko sila sa kanilang sariling lupain: At gagawin ko silang isang bansa sa lupain, sa mga bundok ng Israel; at isang hari ang magiging hari sa kanilang lahat; at hindi na sila magiging dalawang bansa, o mahahati pa man sila sa dalawang kaharian; At hindi na naman mapapahamak pa sila ng dahil sa kanilang mga diosdiosan, o sa kanila mang mga kasuklamsuklam na bagay, o sa anoman sa kanilang mga pagsalangsang; kundi aking ililigtas sila mula sa lahat nilang tahanang dako, na kanilang pinagkasalanan, at lilinisin ko sila: sa gayo'y magiging bayan ko sila, at ako'y magiging kanilang Dios.

 

At ang aking lingkod na si David ay magiging hari sa kanila; at silang lahat ay magkakaroon ng isang pastor; magsisilakad din naman sila ng ayon sa aking mga kahatulan, at susundin ang aking mga palatuntunan, at isasagawa. At sila'y magsisitahan sa lupain na aking ibinigay kay Jacob na aking lingkod, na tinahanan ng inyong mga magulang; at sila'y magsisitahan doon, sila at ang kanilang mga anak, at ang mga anak ng kanilang mga anak, magpakailan man: at si David na aking lingkod ay magiging kanilang prinsipe magpakailan man. Bukod dito'y makikipagtipan ako ng tipan ng kapayapaan sa kanila; magiging tipan na walang hanggan sa kanila; at aking ilalagay sila, at pararamihin sila at itatatag ko ang aking santuario sa gitna nila magpakailan man. Ang aking tabernakulo naman ay mapapasa gitna nila; at ako'y magiging kanilang Dios, at sila'y magiging aking bayan. At malalaman ng mga bansa na ako ang Panginoon na nagpapabanal sa Israel, pagka ang aking santuario ay mapapasa gitna nila magpakailan man.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 11, 45-56

Marami sa mga Judiong dumalaw kina Maria ang nakakita sa ginawa ni Jesus, at sumampalataya sila sa kanya. Ngunit may ilan sa kanila na pumunta sa mga Pariseo at ibinalita ang ginawa ni Jesus. Kaya't tinipon ng mga punong pari at mga Pariseo ang mga kagawad ng Kataas-taasang Kapulungan ng mga Judio. Kanilang sinabi, “Ano ang gagawin natin? Gumagawa ng maraming himala ang taong ito. Kung siya'y pababayaan nating magpatuloy sa kanyang mga ginagawa, maniniwala sa kanya ang lahat. Paparito ang mga Romano at wawasakin ang ating Templo at ang ating bansa.”

 

Ngunit ang isa sa kanila, si Caifas na siyang Pinakapunong Pari nang taóng iyon, ay nagsabing, “Wala kayong alam! Hindi ba ninyo naiisip na mas mabuti sa inyo na isang tao lamang ang mamatay alang-alang sa bayan, kaysa mapahamak ang buong bansa?” Hindi mula sa kanyang sarili ang sinabi niyang ito. Bilang Pinakapunong Pari nang taóng iyon, nagpahayag siya ng propesiya na dapat mamatay si Jesus alang-alang sa bansa at hindi lamang para sa bansa kundi upang tipunin ang mga anak ng Diyos na nasa iba't ibang dako. Mula noon, pinagplanuhan na nila kung paano maipapapatay si Jesus. Dahil dito, si Jesus ay hindi na hayagang naglakad sa Judea. Sa halip, siya'y nagpunta sa Efraim, isang bayang malapit sa ilang, at doon muna tumigil kasama ng kanyang mga alagad.

 

Nalalapit na ang Pista ng Paskwa. Maraming taga-lalawigan ang pumunta sa Jerusalem bago sumapit ang kapistahan upang isagawa ang seremonya ng paglilinis. Hinanap nila si Jesus, at habang sila'y nag-uusap-usap sa Templo, sila'y nagtanungan, “Ano sa palagay ninyo? Paparito kaya siya sa pista?”

 

 

APRIL 9, 2017

At The Procession With Palms —  Gospel MT 21:1-11

When Jesus and the disciples drew near Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, "Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find an ass tethered, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them here to me. And if anyone should say anything to you, reply, 'The master has need of them.' Then he will send them at once." This happened so that what had been spoken through the prophet might be fulfilled: Say to daughter Zion, "Behold, your king comes to you, meek and riding on an ass, and on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden." The disciples went and did as Jesus had ordered them. They brought the ass and the colt and laid their cloaks over them, and he sat upon them. The very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and strewed them on the road. The crowds preceding him and those following kept crying out and saying: "Hosanna to the Son of David; blessed is the he who comes in the name of the Lord; hosanna in the highest." And when he entered Jerusalem the whole city was shaken and asked, "Who is this?" And the crowds replied, "This is Jesus the prophet, from Nazareth in Galilee."

 

At The Mass — Reading 1 IS 50:4-7

The Lord GOD has given me a well-trained tongue, that I might know how to speak to the weary a word that will rouse them. Morning after morning he opens my ear that I may hear; and I have not rebelled, have not turned back. I gave my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who plucked my beard; my face I did not shield from buffets and spitting.

 

The Lord GOD is my help, therefore I am not disgraced; I have set my face like flint, knowing that I shall not be put to shame.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 22:8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24

R. My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?

 

All who see me scoff at me; they mock me with parted lips, they wag their heads: "He relied on the LORD; let him deliver him, let him rescue him, if he loves him."

R. My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?

 

Indeed, many dogs surround me, a pack of evildoers closes in upon me; They have pierced my hands and my feet; I can count all my bones.

R. My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?

 

They divide my garments among them, and for my vesture they cast lots. But you, O LORD, be not far from me; O my help, hasten to aid me.

R. My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?

 

I will proclaim your name to my brethren; in the midst of the assembly I will praise you: "You who fear the LORD, praise him; all you descendants of Jacob, give glory to him; revere him, all you descendants of Israel!"

R. My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?

 

Reading 2 PHIL 2:6-11

Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

 

Verse Before The Gospel PHIL 2:8-9

Christ became obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name.

 

Gospel MT 26:14—27:66

One of the Twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, "What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?" They paid him thirty pieces of silver, and from that time on he looked for an opportunity to hand him over.

 

On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples approached Jesus and said, "Where do you want us to prepare for you to eat the Passover?" He said, "Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, 'The teacher says, "My appointed time draws near; in your house I shall celebrate the Passover with my disciples."'" The disciples then did as Jesus had ordered, and prepared the Passover.

 

When it was evening, he reclined at table with the Twelve. And while they were eating, he said, "Amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me." Deeply distressed at this, they began to say to him one after another, "Surely it is not I, Lord?" He said in reply, "He who has dipped his hand into the dish with me is the one who will betray me. The Son of Man indeed goes, as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed. It would be better for that man if he had never been born." Then Judas, his betrayer, said in reply, "Surely it is not I, Rabbi?" He answered, "You have said so."

 

While they were eating, Jesus took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and giving it to his disciples said, "Take and eat; this is my body." Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed on behalf of many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, from now on I shall not drink this fruit of the vine until the day when I drink it with you new in the kingdom of my Father." Then, after singing a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

 

Then Jesus said to them, "This night all of you will have your faith in me shaken, for it is written: I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be dispersed; but after I have been raised up, I shall go before you to Galilee." Peter said to him in reply, "Though all may have their faith in you shaken, mine will never be." Jesus said to him, "Amen, I say to you, this very night before the cock crows, you will deny me three times." Peter said to him, "Even though I should have to die with you, I will not deny you." And all the disciples spoke likewise.

 

Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, "Sit here while I go over there and pray." He took along Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to feel sorrow and distress. Then he said to them, "My soul is sorrowful even to death. Remain here and keep watch with me." He advanced a little and fell prostrate in prayer, saying, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet, not as I will, but as you will." When he returned to his disciples he found them asleep. He said to Peter, "So you could not keep watch with me for one hour? Watch and pray that you may not undergo the test. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak." Withdrawing a second time, he prayed again, "My Father, if it is not possible that this cup pass without my drinking it, your will be done!" Then he returned once more and found them asleep, for they could not keep their eyes open. He left them and withdrew again and prayed a third time, saying the same thing again. Then he returned to his disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? Behold, the hour is at hand when the Son of Man is to be handed over to sinners. Get up, let us go. Look, my betrayer is at hand."

 

While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived, accompanied by a large crowd, with swords and clubs, who had come from the chief priests and the elders of the people. His betrayer had arranged a sign with them, saying, "The man I shall kiss is the one; arrest him." Immediately he went over to Jesus and said, "Hail, Rabbi!" and he kissed him. Jesus answered him, "Friend, do what you have come for." Then stepping forward they laid hands on Jesus and arrested him. And behold, one of those who accompanied Jesus put his hand to his sword, drew it, and struck the high priest's servant, cutting off his ear. Then Jesus said to him, "Put your sword back into its sheath, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword. Do you think that I cannot call upon my Father and he will not provide me at this moment with more than twelve legions of angels? But then how would the Scriptures be fulfilled which say that it must come to pass in this way?" At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, "Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to seize me? Day after day I sat teaching in the temple area, yet you did not arrest me. But all this has come to pass that the writings of the prophets may be fulfilled." Then all the disciples left him and fled.

 

Those who had arrested Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. Peter was following him at a distance as far as the high priest's courtyard, and going inside he sat down with the servants to see the outcome. The chief priests and the entire Sanhedrin kept trying to obtain false testimony against Jesus in order to put him to death, but they found none, though many false witnesses came forward. Finally two came forward who stated, "This man said, 'I can destroy the temple of God and within three days rebuild it.'" The high priest rose and addressed him, "Have you no answer? What are these men testifying against you?" But Jesus was silent. Then the high priest said to him, "I order you to tell us under oath before the living God whether you are the Christ, the Son of God." Jesus said to him in reply, "You have said so. But I tell you: From now on you will see 'the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Power' and 'coming on the clouds of heaven.'" Then the high priest tore his robes and said, "He has blasphemed! What further need have we of witnesses? You have now heard the blasphemy; what is your opinion?" They said in reply, "He deserves to die!" Then they spat in his face and struck him, while some slapped him, saying, "Prophesy for us, Christ: who is it that struck you?"

 

Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. One of the maids came over to him and said, "You too were with Jesus the Galilean." But he denied it in front of everyone, saying, "I do not know what you are talking about!" As he went out to the gate, another girl saw him and said to those who were there, "This man was with Jesus the Nazorean." Again he denied it with an oath, "I do not know the man!" A little later the bystanders came over and said to Peter, "Surely you too are one of them; even your speech gives you away." At that he began to curse and to swear, "I do not know the man." And immediately a cock crowed. Then Peter remembered the word that Jesus had spoken: "Before the cock crows you will deny me three times." He went out and began to weep bitterly.

 

When it was morning, all the chief priests and the elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death. They bound him, led him away, and handed him over to Pilate, the governor.

 

Then Judas, his betrayer, seeing that Jesus had been condemned, deeply regretted what he had done. He returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, saying, "I have sinned in betraying innocent blood." They said, "What is that to us? Look to it yourself." Flinging the money into the temple, he departed and went off and hanged himself. The chief priests gathered up the money, but said, "It is not lawful to deposit this in the temple treasury, for it is the price of blood." After consultation, they used it to buy the potter's field as a burial place for foreigners. That is why that field even today is called the Field of Blood. Then was fulfilled what had been said through Jeremiah the prophet, And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the value of a man with a price on his head, a price set by some of the Israelites, and they paid it out for the potter's field just as the Lord had commanded me.

 

Now Jesus stood before the governor, and he questioned him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" Jesus said, "You say so." And when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he made no answer. Then Pilate said to him, "Do you not hear how many things they are testifying against you?" But he did not answer him one word, so that the governor was greatly amazed.

 

Now on the occasion of the feast the governor was accustomed to release to the crowd one prisoner whom they wished. And at that time they had a notorious prisoner called Barabbas. So when they had assembled, Pilate said to them, "Which one do you want me to release to you, Barabbas, or Jesus called Christ?" For he knew that it was out of envy that they had handed him over. While he was still seated on the bench, his wife sent him a message, "Have nothing to do with that righteous man. I suffered much in a dream today because of him." The chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas but to destroy Jesus. The governor said to them in reply, "Which of the two do you want me to release to you?" They answered, "Barabbas!" Pilate said to them, "Then what shall I do with Jesus called Christ?" They all said, "Let him be crucified!" But he said, "Why? What evil has he done?" They only shouted the louder, "Let him be crucified!" When Pilate saw that he was not succeeding at all, but that a riot was breaking out instead, he took water and washed his hands in the sight of the crowd, saying, "I am innocent of this man's blood. Look to it yourselves." And the whole people said in reply, "His blood be upon us and upon our children." Then he released Barabbas to them, but after he had Jesus scourged, he handed him over to be crucified.

 

Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus inside the praetorium and gathered the whole cohort around him. They stripped off his clothes and threw a scarlet military cloak about him. Weaving a crown out of thorns, they placed it on his head, and a reed in his right hand. And kneeling before him, they mocked him, saying, "Hail, King of the Jews!" They spat upon him and took the reed and kept striking him on the head. And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the cloak, dressed him in his own clothes, and led him off to crucify him.

 

As they were going out, they met a Cyrenian named Simon; this man they pressed into service to carry his cross.

 

And when they came to a place called Golgotha —which means Place of the Skull —, they gave Jesus wine to drink mixed with gall. But when he had tasted it, he refused to drink. After they had crucified him, they divided his garments by casting lots; then they sat down and kept watch over him there. And they placed over his head the written charge against him: This is Jesus, the King of the Jews. Two revolutionaries were crucified with him, one on his right and the other on his left. Those passing by reviled him, shaking their heads and saying, "You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself, if you are the Son of God, and come down from the cross!" Likewise the chief priests with the scribes and elders mocked him and said, "He saved others; he cannot save himself. So he is the king of Israel! Let him come down from the cross now, and we will believe in him. He trusted in God; let him deliver him now if he wants him. For he said, 'I am the Son of God.'" The revolutionaries who were crucified with him also kept abusing him in the same way.

 

From noon onward, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. And about three o'clock Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" Some of the bystanders who heard it said, "This one is calling for Elijah." Immediately one of them ran to get a sponge; he soaked it in wine, and putting it on a reed, gave it to him to drink. But the rest said, "Wait, let us see if Elijah comes to save him." But Jesus cried out again in a loud voice, and gave up his spirit.

 

Here all kneel and pause for a short time.

 

And behold, the veil of the sanctuary was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth quaked, rocks were split, tombs were opened, and the bodies of many saints who had fallen asleep were raised. And coming forth from their tombs after his resurrection, they entered the holy city and appeared to many. The centurion and the men with him who were keeping watch over Jesus feared greatly when they saw the earthquake and all that was happening, and they said, "Truly, this was the Son of God!" There were many women there, looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him. Among them were Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.

 

When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea named Joseph, who was himself a disciple of Jesus. He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus; then Pilate ordered it to be handed over. Taking the body, Joseph wrapped it in clean linen and laid it in his new tomb that he had hewn in the rock. Then he rolled a huge stone across the entrance to the tomb and departed. But Mary Magdalene and the other Mary remained sitting there, facing the tomb.

 

The next day, the one following the day of preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered before Pilate and said, "Sir, we remember that this impostor while still alive said, 'After three days I will be raised up.' Give orders, then, that the grave be secured until the third day, lest his disciples come and steal him and say to the people, 'He has been raised from the dead.' This last imposture would be worse than the first." Pilate said to them, "The guard is yours; go, secure it as best you can." So they went and secured the tomb by fixing a seal to the stone and setting the guard.

 

 

 

Palaspas: Mabuting Balita Mateo 21, 1-11

Nang malapit na sila sa Jerusalem, dumaan sila sa Bethfage, sa Bundok ng mga Olibo. Inutusan ni Jesus ang dalawa sa kanyang mga alagad, “Pumunta kayo sa susunod na nayon at makikita ninyo kaagad doon ang isang babaing asno na nakatali, kasama ang kanyang anak. Kalagan ninyo ang mga iyon at dalhin sa akin. Kapag may nagtanong sa inyo, sabihin ninyong kailangan iyon ng Panginoon at ibibigay niya agad ang mga iyon sa inyo.”

 

Sa gayon, natupad ang sinabi ng propeta:

 

“Sa lungsod ng Zion ay ipahayag ninyo,

 

‘Tingnan mo, ang iyong hari ay dumarating.

 

Siya'y mapagpakumbaba; masdan mo't siya'y nakasakay sa isang asno,

 

at sa isang bisiro na anak ng asno.’”

 

Lumakad nga ang mga alagad at ginawa ang iniutos ni Jesus. Dinala nila kay Jesus ang asno at ang bisiro, at isinapin sa likod ng mga ito ang kanilang balabal at sumakay si Jesus. Maraming naglatag ng kanilang balabal sa daan; mayroon namang pumutol ng mga sanga ng kahoy at ito'y inilatag sa daan. Nagsisigawan ang mga taong nauuna at sumusunod sa kanya. Sigaw nila, “Purihin ang anak ni David! Pinagpala ang dumarating sa pangalan ng Panginoon! Purihin ang Diyos!”

 

Pagpasok ni Jesus sa Jerusalem, nagulo ang buong lungsod. “Sino kaya ito?” tanong nila. “Si Jesus, ang propetang taga-Nazaret sa Galilea,” sagot ng karamihan.

 

Unang Pagbasa Isaias 50, 4-7

Ang Panginoong Yahweh ang nagturo sa akin ng aking sasabihin,

 

para tulungan ang mahihina.

 

Tuwing umaga'y nananabik akong malaman

 

kung ano ang ituturo niya sa akin.

 

Binigyan ako ng Panginoong Yahweh ng pang-unawa,

 

hindi ako naghimagsik

 

o tumalikod sa kanya.

 

Hindi ako gumanti nang bugbugin nila ako,

 

hindi ako kumibo nang insultuhin nila ako.

 

Pinabayaan ko silang bunutin ang aking balbas

 

at luraan ang aking mukha.

 

Hindi ko pinansin ang mga pag-insultong ginawa nila sa akin,

 

sapagkat ang Panginoong Yahweh ang tumutulong sa akin.

 

Handa akong magtiis,

 

sapagkat aking nalalaman na ako'y hindi mapapahiya.

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa Filipos 2, 6-11

Kahit taglay niya ang kalikasan ng Diyos,

 

hindi niya ipinagpilitang manatiling kapantay ng Diyos.

 

Sa halip, kusa niyang binitawan ang pagiging kapantay ng Diyos,

 

at namuhay na isang alipin.

 

Ipinanganak siya bilang tao.

 

At nang siya'y maging tao,

 

nagpakumbaba siya at naging masunurin hanggang kamatayan,

 

maging ito man ay kamatayan sa krus.

 

Dahil dito, siya'y lubusang itinaas ng Diyos,

 

at binigyan ng pangalang higit sa lahat ng pangalan.

 

Sa gayon, sa pangalan ni Jesus

 

ay luluhod at magpupuri ang lahat

 

ng nasa langit, nasa lupa, at nasa ilalim ng lupa.

 

At ang lahat ay magpapahayag na si Jesu-Cristo ay Panginoon,

 

sa ikaluluwalhati ng Diyos Ama.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 26, 14-27. 66

Si Judas Iscariote, isa sa Labindalawa, ay nakipagkita sa mga punong pari. “Ano po ang ibibigay ninyo sa akin kung tulungan ko kayong madakip si Jesus?” tanong niya. Noon di'y binayaran nila si Judas ng tatlumpung pirasong pilak. Mula noon, humanap na si Judas ng pagkakataon upang maipagkanulo si Jesus.

 

Dumating ang unang araw ng Pista ng Tinapay na Walang Pampaalsa. Lumapit kay Jesus ang mga alagad at nagtanong, “Saan po ninyo nais na maghanda kami ng hapunang pampaskwa?”

 

Sumagot siya, “Puntahan ninyo sa lungsod ang isang tao at sabihin ninyo sa kanya, ‘Ipinapasabi po ng Guro na sumapit na ang kanyang oras. Siya at ang mga alagad niya'y sa bahay ninyo kakain ng hapunang pampaskwa.’”

 

Sinunod ng mga alagad ang utos ni Jesus, at doo'y inihanda nga nila ang hapunang pampaskwa.

 

Nang gabing iyon, dumulog sa hapag si Jesus, kasama ang Labindalawa. Sinabi ni Jesus habang sila'y kumakain, “Tinitiyak ko sa inyo, ako'y ipagkakanulo ng isa sa inyo!”

 

Nanlumo ang mga alagad, at isa-isang nagtanong sa kanya, “Hindi ako iyon, di po ba, Panginoon?”

 

Sumagot si Jesus, “Ang kasabay kong nagsawsaw sa mangkok ang siyang magkakanulo sa akin. Papanaw ang Anak ng Tao ayon sa nasusulat tungkol sa kanya subalit kahabag-habag ang taong magkakanulo sa kanya! Mabuti pa sa taong iyon ang hindi na siya ipinanganak!”

 

Si Judas na magkakanulo sa kanya ay nagtanong din, “Guro, ako po ba?” Sumagot si Jesus, “Ikaw ang nagsabi niyan.”

 

Habang sila'y kumakain, dumampot si Jesus ng tinapay, at matapos magpasalamat sa Diyos ay pinaghati-hati niya iyon, ibinigay sa mga alagad at sinabi, “Kunin ninyo ito at kainin. Ito ang aking katawan.”

 

Pagkatapos, dumampot siya ng kopa, nagpasalamat sa Diyos at ibinigay iyon sa kanila. Sinabi niya, “Kayong lahat ay uminom nito

 

Ano ang pasya ninyo?” Sumagot sila, “Dapat siyang mamatay!”

 

APRIL 10, 2017

 

 

Reading 1 IS 42:1-7

Here is my servant whom I uphold, my chosen one with whom I am pleased, Upon whom I have put my Spirit; he shall bring forth justice to the nations, Not crying out, not shouting, not making his voice heard in the street. A bruised reed he shall not break, and a smoldering wick he shall not quench, Until he establishes justice on the earth; the coastlands will wait for his teaching.

 

Thus says God, the LORD, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spreads out the earth with its crops, Who gives breath to its people and spirit to those who walk on it: I, the LORD, have called you for the victory of justice, I have grasped you by the hand; I formed you, and set you as a covenant of the people, a light for the nations, To open the eyes of the blind, to bring out prisoners from confinement, and from the dungeon, those who live in darkness.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 27:1, 2, 3, 13-14

R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.

 

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The LORD is my life's refuge; of whom should I be afraid?

R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.

 

When evildoers come at me to devour my flesh, My foes and my enemies themselves stumble and fall.

R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.

 

Though an army encamp against me, my heart will not fear; Though war be waged upon me, even then will I trust.

R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.

 

I believe that I shall see the bounty of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD with courage; be stouthearted, and wait for the LORD.

R. The Lord is my light and my salvation.

 

Verse Before The Gospel

Hail to you, our King; you alone are compassionate with our faults.

 

Gospel JN 12:1-11

Six days before Passover Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. They gave a dinner for him there, and Martha served, while Lazarus was one of those reclining at table with him. Mary took a liter of costly perfumed oil made from genuine aromatic nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and dried them with her hair; the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil. Then Judas the Iscariot, one of his disciples, and the one who would betray him, said, "Why was this oil not sold for three hundred days' wages and given to the poor?" He said this not because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief and held the money bag and used to steal the contributions. So Jesus said, "Leave her alone. Let her keep this for the day of my burial. You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me."

 

The large crowd of the Jews found out that he was there and came, not only because of him, but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. And the chief priests plotted to kill Lazarus too, because many of the Jews were turning away and believing in Jesus because of him.

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Isaias 42, 1-7

Sinabi ni Yahweh,

 

“Narito ang lingkod ko na aking hinirang;

 

ang aking pinili at lubos na kinalulugdan;

 

ibinuhos ko sa kanya ang aking Espiritu,

 

at siya ang magpapairal ng katarungan sa mga bansa.

 

Hindi siya makikipagtalo o makikipagsigawan,

 

ni magtataas ng boses sa mga lansangan.

 

Ang marupok na tambo'y hindi niya babaliin,

 

ilaw na aandap-andap hindi niya papatayin;

 

katarungan para sa lahat ang kanyang paiiralin.

 

Hindi siya mawawalan ng pag-asa o masisiraan ng loob,

 

hangga't katarungan ay maghari sa daigdig;

 

ang malalayong lupain ay buong pananabik na maghihintay sa kanyang mga turo.”

 

Ang Diyos na si Yahweh ang lumikha ng kalangitan,

 

nilikha rin niya ang lupa at nagbigay-buhay sa lahat ng bagay dito sa daigdig,

 

kaya't sinabi ng Diyos na si Yahweh sa kanyang lingkod,

 

“Akong si Yahweh ang tumawag sa iyo sa katuwiran,

 

binigyan kita ng kapangyarihan upang pairalin ang katarungan sa daigdig.

 

Sa pamamagitan mo ay gagawa ako ng kasunduan sa lahat ng tao,

 

at sa pamamagitan mo'y dadalhin ko ang liwanag sa lahat ng bansa.

 

Ikaw ang magbubukas sa mga mata ng mga bulag

 

at magpapalaya sa mga bilanggo ng kadiliman.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 12, 1-11

Anim na araw bago sumapit ang Pista ng Paskwa, si Jesus ay nagpunta sa Bethania, kung saan nakatira si Lazaro na kanyang muling binuhay. Isang hapunan ang inihanda roon para sa kanya. Si Lazaro ay isa sa mga kasalo ni Jesus samantalang si Martha naman ay tumutulong sa paglilingkod sa kanila. Kumuha naman si Maria ng isang bote ng mamahaling pabangong galing sa katas ng dalisay na nardo, at ibinuhos sa mga paa ni Jesus. Pagkatapos, pinunasan niya ang mga ito ng kanyang buhok. At napuno ang buong bahay ng halimuyak ng pabango. Ito'y pinuna ni Judas Iscariote, ang alagad na magkakanulo sa kanya. Sinabi niya, “Bakit hindi na lamang ipinagbili ang pabango at ibinigay sa mga dukha ang pinagbilhan? Maaaring umabot sa tatlong daang salaping pilak ang halaga ng pabangong iyan!” Sinabi iyon ni Judas, hindi dahil sa siya'y may malasakit sa mga dukha, kundi dahil sa siya'y magnanakaw. Siya ang tagapagdala ng kanilang salapi, at madalas niyang kinukupitan ito.

 

Ngunit sinabi ni Jesus, “Pabayaan ninyo siya! Hayaan ninyong ilaan niya ito para sa araw ng aking libing. Habang panaho'y kasama ninyo ang mga dukha, ngunit ako'y hindi ninyo kasama habang panahon.”

 

Nabalitaan ng maraming Judio na si Jesus ay nasa Bethania kaya't nagpunta sila roon upang makita siya at si Lazaro, na kanyang muling binuhay. Kaya't binalak ng mga punong pari na ipapatay din si Lazaro, sapagkat dahil sa kanya'y maraming Judio ang humihiwalay na sa kanila at sumasampalataya kay Jesus.

 

 

APRIL 11, 2017

 

Reading 1 IS 49:1-6

Hear me, O islands, listen, O distant peoples. The LORD called me from birth, from my mother's womb he gave me my name. He made of me a sharp-edged sword and concealed me in the shadow of his arm. He made me a polished arrow, in his quiver he hid me. You are my servant, he said to me, Israel, through whom I show my glory.

 

Though I thought I had toiled in vain, and for nothing, uselessly, spent my strength, Yet my reward is with the LORD, my recompense is with my God. For now the LORD has spoken who formed me as his servant from the womb, That Jacob may be brought back to him and Israel gathered to him; And I am made glorious in the sight of the LORD, and my God is now my strength! It is too little, he says, for you to be my servant, to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and restore the survivors of Israel; I will make you a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 71:1-2, 3-4A, 5AB-6AB, 15 AND 17

R. I will sing of your salvation.

 

In you, O LORD, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame. In your justice rescue me, and deliver me; incline your ear to me, and save me.

R. I will sing of your salvation.

 

Be my rock of refuge, a stronghold to give me safety, for you are my rock and my fortress. O my God, rescue me from the hand of the wicked.

R. I will sing of your salvation.

 

For you are my hope, O Lord; my trust, O God, from my youth. On you I depend from birth; from my mother's womb you are my strength.

R. I will sing of your salvation.

 

My mouth shall declare your justice, day by day your salvation. O God, you have taught me from my youth, and till the present I proclaim your wondrous deeds.

R. I will sing of your salvation.

 

Verse Before The Gospel

Hail to you, our King, obedient to the Father; you were led to your crucifixion like a gentle lamb to the slaughter.

 

Gospel JN 13:21-33, 36-38

Reclining at table with his disciples, Jesus was deeply troubled and testified, "Amen, amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me." The disciples looked at one another, at a loss as to whom he meant. One of his disciples, the one whom Jesus loved, was reclining at Jesus' side. So Simon Peter nodded to him to find out whom he meant. He leaned back against Jesus' chest and said to him, "Master, who is it?" Jesus answered, "It is the one to whom I hand the morsel after I have dipped it." So he dipped the morsel and took it and handed it to Judas, son of Simon the Iscariot. After Judas took the morsel, Satan entered him. So Jesus said to him, "What you are going to do, do quickly." Now none of those reclining at table realized why he said this to him. Some thought that since Judas kept the money bag, Jesus had told him, "Buy what we need for the feast," or to give something to the poor. So Judas took the morsel and left at once. And it was night.

 

When he had left, Jesus said, "Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him. If God is glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself, and he will glorify him at once. My children, I will be with you only a little while longer. You will look for me, and as I told the Jews, 'Where I go you cannot come,' so now I say it to you."

 

Simon Peter said to him, "Master, where are you going?" Jesus answered him, "Where I am going, you cannot follow me now, though you will follow later." Peter said to him, "Master, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you." Jesus answered, "Will you lay down your life for me? Amen, amen, I say to you, the cock will not crow before you deny me three times."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Isaias 49, 1-6

Makinig kayo mga taong

 

naninirahan sa malalayong lugar.

 

Pinili na ako ng Panginoon bago pa isilang

 

at hinirang niya ako para siya’y paglingkuran.

 

Mga salita ko’y ginawa niyang

 

sintalas ng tabak,

 

Siya ang sa aki’y laging nag-iingat.

 

Ginawa niya akong parang matulis na palaso

 

na anumang oras ay handang itudla.

 

Sinabi niya sa akin,

 

“Israel, ikaw ay lingkod ko,

 

sa pamamagitan mo

 

ako’y dadakilain ng mga tao.”

 

Ngunit ang tugon ko,

 

“Ako ay nabigo sa kaing pagsisikap, hindi nagtagumpay

 

gayong ibinuhos ko ang aking lakas.”

 

Gayunman’y itinitiwala ko sa Panginoon

 

ang aking kalagayan,

 

na ako’y gagantimpalaan sa aking nakayanan.

 

Bago pa ako ipanganak ay hinirang na ng Panginoon,

 

pinili niya ako para maging lingkod niya

 

upang tipunin ang nangalat na mga Israelita,

 

at sila’y ibalik sa bayang Israel,.

 

Binigyan ako ng Panginoon ng karangalan,

 

sa kanya nagbubuhat ang aking karangalan.

 

Sinabi ng Panginoon sa akin:

 

“Israel na aking lingkod,

 

May mas mahalaga pa kaong ipagagawa sa iyo.

 

Bukod sa pagpapanumbalik

 

sa mga Israelitang nalabi

 

ay gagawin kitang tanglaw ng mga bansa

 

upang lahat sa daigdig ay maligtas.”

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 13, 21-33. 36-38

Noong panahong iyon, habang nakahilig kasamang kanyang mga alagad, nagugulumihanang sinabi ni Hesus, “Tandaan ninyo: ako’y ipagkakanulo ng isa sa inyo.” Nagkatinginan ang mga alagad; hindi nila alam kung sino ang kanyang tinutukoy.

 

Ang alagad na minamahal ni Hesus ay nakahilig na kalapit niya. Kinalabit siya ni Simon Pedro at sinabi, “Itanong mo kung sino ang tinutukoy niya.” Kaya humilig siya sa dibdib ni Hesus at itinanong: “Panginoon, sino po ba ang tinutukoy ninyo?” Sumagot si Hesus, “Ang ipagsawsaw ko ng tinapay, siya na nga.” At nang maisawsaw ang tinapay, ibinigay niya ito kay Judas na anak ni Simon Iscariote. Nang matanggap na ni Judas ang tinapay, si Satanas ay pumasok sa kanya. Sinabi ni Hesus, “Gawin mo na ang gagawin mo!” Ngunit isa man sa mga kasalo niya ay walang nakaalam kung bakit niya sinabi ito. Sapagkat si Judas ang nag-iingat ng kanilang salapi, inakala nilang pinabibili siya ni Hesus ng kakailanganin sa pista o kaya’y pinapaglilimos sa mga dukha. Nang makain na ni Judas ang tinapay, siya’y umalis. Gabi na noon.

 

Pagkaalis ni Judas ay sinabi ni Hesus, “Ngayo’y mahahayag na ang karangalan ng Anak ng Tao; at mahahayag din ang karangalan ng Diyos sa pamamagitan niya. At kung mahayag na ang karangalan ng Diyos, ang Diyos naman ang maghahayag ng karangalan ng Anak, at gagawin niya ito agad. Mga anak, kaunting panahon na lamang ninyo akong makakasama. Hahanapin ninyo ako; ngunit sinasabi ko sa inyo ngayon ang sinabi ko sa mga Judio, ‘Hindi kayo makapupunta sa paroroonan ko.’”

 

“Saano po kayo pupunta, Panginoon?” tanong ni Simon Pedro. Sumagot si Hesus, “Sa paroroonan ko’y hindi ka makasusunod ngayon, ngunit susunod ka pagkatapos.” “Bakit po hindi ako makasusunod sa inyo ngayon?” tanong ni Pedro. “Buhay ko ma’y iaalay ko dahil sa inyo.” Sumagot si Hesus, “Iaalay mo ang iyong buhay dahil sa akin? Tandaan mo: bago tumilaok ang manok, makaitlo mo akong ikatatwa.”

 

 

APRIL 12, 2017

 

Reading 1 IS 50:4-9A

The Lord GOD has given me a well-trained tongue, That I might know how to speak to the weary a word that will rouse them. Morning after morning he opens my ear that I may hear; And I have not rebelled, have not turned back. I gave my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who plucked my beard; My face I did not shield from buffets and spitting.

 

The Lord GOD is my help, therefore I am not disgraced; I have set my face like flint, knowing that I shall not be put to shame. He is near who upholds my right; if anyone wishes to oppose me, let us appear together. Who disputes my right? Let him confront me. See, the Lord GOD is my help; who will prove me wrong?

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 69:8-10, 21-22, 31 AND 33-34

R. Lord, in your great love, answer me.

 

For your sake I bear insult, and shame covers my face. I have become an outcast to my brothers, a stranger to my mother's sons, because zeal for your house consumes me, and the insults of those who blaspheme you fall upon me.

R. Lord, in your great love, answer me.

 

Insult has broken my heart, and I am weak, I looked for sympathy, but there was none; for consolers, not one could I find. Rather they put gall in my food, and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.

R. Lord, in your great love, answer me.

 

I will praise the name of God in song, and I will glorify him with thanksgiving: "See, you lowly ones, and be glad; you who seek God, may your hearts revive! For the LORD hears the poor, and his own who are in bonds he spurns not."

R. Lord, in your great love, answer me.

 

Verse Before The Gospel

Hail to your, our King; you alone are compassionate with our errors.

 

Gospel MT 26:14-25

One of the Twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, "What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?" They paid him thirty pieces of silver, and from that time on he looked for an opportunity to hand him over.

 

On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples approached Jesus and said, "Where do you want us to prepare for you to eat the Passover?" He said, "Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, 'The teacher says, My appointed time draws near; in your house I shall celebrate the Passover with my disciples.'" The disciples then did as Jesus had ordered, and prepared the Passover.

 

When it was evening, he reclined at table with the Twelve. And while they were eating, he said, "Amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me." Deeply distressed at this, they began to say to him one after another, "Surely it is not I, Lord?" He said in reply, "He who has dipped his hand into the dish with me is the one who will betray me. The Son of Man indeed goes, as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed. It would be better for that man if he had never been born." Then Judas, his betrayer, said in reply, "Surely it is not I, Rabbi?" He answered, "You have said so."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Isaias 50, 4-9a

Ang Makapangyarihang Panginoon

 

ang nagturo sa akin ng sasabihin ko,

 

para tulungan ang mahihina.

 

Tuwing umaga’y

 

kanyang binubuksan ang aking pandinig.

 

Nananabik akong malaman

 

kung ano ang ituturo niya sa akin.

 

Binigyan niya ako ng pang-unawa,

 

hindi ako naghimagsik ni tumalikod sa kanya.

 

Hindi ako tumutol

 

nang bugbugin nila ako,

 

hindi ako kumibo

 

nang ako’y kanilang insultuhin.

 

Pinabayaan ko silang bunutin

 

ang buhok ko’t balbas,

 

gayon din nang lurhan nila ako sa mukha.

 

Ang mga pagdustang ginawa nila’y

 

di ko pinapansin,

 

pagkat ang Makapangyarihang Panginoon

 

ang tumutulong sa akin.

 

Handa akong magtiis

 

na sampaling parang bato

 

pagkat aking batid

 

na ang sarili ko’y di mapapahiya.

 

Ang Diyos ay malapit

 

at siya ang magpapatunay na wala akong sala.

 

May mangangahas bang maghabla sa akin?

 

Magharap kami sa hukuman,

 

at ilahad ang kanyang bintang.

 

Ang Panginoon mismo ang magtatanggol sa akin.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 26, 14-25

Si Judas Iscariote, isa sa Labindalawa, ay nakipagkita sa mga punong saserdote. “Ano po ang ibibigay ninyo sa akin kung tulungan ko kayong madakip si Hesus?” tanong niya. Noon din ay binilangan nila siya ng tatlumpung salaping pilak. Mula noon, humanap na si Judas ng pagkakataon upang maipagkanulo si Hesus.

 

Dumating ang upang araw ng Kapistahan ng Tinapay na Walang Lebadura. Lumapit kay Hesus ang mga alagad at nagtanong, “Saan po ninyo ibig na ipaghanda namin kayo ng Hapunang Pampaskuwa?” Sumagot siya, “Pumunta kayo sa lunsod at hanapin ninyo ang taong ito. Sabihin sa kanyang ganito ang ipinasasabi ng Guro: ‘Malapit na ang aking oras. Ako at ang mga alagad ko’y sa bahay mo kakain ng Hapunang Pampaskuwa.’” Sinunod ng mga alagad ang utos ni Hesus, at inihanda nila ang Hapunang Pampaskuwa.

 

Nang gabing yaon, dumulog sa hapag si Hesus, kasama ang labindalawang algad. Samantalang sila’y kumakain, nangusap si Hesus, “Sinasabi ko: isa sa inyo ang mga magkakanula sa akin.” Nanlumo ang mga alagad, at isa’t isa’y nagtanong sa kanya, “Ako po ba, Panginoon?” Sumagot siya, “Ang kasabay kong sumawsaw sa mangkok ang siyang magkakanulo sa akin. Papanaw ang Anak ng Tao, ayon sa nasusulat, ngunit sa aba ng magkakanulo sa kanya! Mabuti pang hindi na ipinanganak ang taong iyon.” Si Judas, na magkakanulo sa kanya, ay nagtanong din, “Guro, ako po ba?” Sumagot si Hesus, “Ikaw na ang nagsabi.”

 

 

APRIL 13, 2017

 

Reading 1 EX 12:1-8, 11-14

The LORD said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, "This month shall stand at the head of your calendar; you shall reckon it the first month of the year. Tell the whole community of Israel: On the tenth of this month every one of your families must procure for itself a lamb, one apiece for each household. If a family is too small for a whole lamb, it shall join the nearest household in procuring one and shall share in the lamb in proportion to the number of persons who partake of it. The lamb must be a year-old male and without blemish. You may take it from either the sheep or the goats. You shall keep it until the fourteenth day of this month, and then, with the whole assembly of Israel present, it shall be slaughtered during the evening twilight. They shall take some of its blood and apply it to the two doorposts and the lintel of every house in which they partake of the lamb. That same night they shall eat its roasted flesh with unleavened bread and bitter herbs.

 

"This is how you are to eat it: with your loins girt, sandals on your feet and your staff in hand, you shall eat like those who are in flight. It is the Passover of the LORD. For on this same night I will go through Egypt, striking down every firstborn of the land, both man and beast, and executing judgment on all the gods of Egypt—I, the LORD! But the blood will mark the houses where you are. Seeing the blood, I will pass over you; thus, when I strike the land of Egypt, no destructive blow will come upon you.

 

"This day shall be a memorial feast for you, which all your generations shall celebrate with pilgrimage to the LORD, as a perpetual institution."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 116:12-13, 15-16BC, 17-18

R. Our blessing-cup is a communion with the Blood of Christ.

 

How shall I make a return to the LORD for all the good he has done for me? The cup of salvation I will take up, and I will call upon the name of the LORD.

R. Our blessing-cup is a communion with the Blood of Christ.

 

Precious in the eyes of the LORD is the death of his faithful ones. I am your servant, the son of your handmaid; you have loosed my bonds.

R. Our blessing-cup is a communion with the Blood of Christ.

 

To you will I offer sacrifice of thanksgiving, and I will call upon the name of the LORD. My vows to the LORD I will pay in the presence of all his people.

R. Our blessing-cup is a communion with the Blood of Christ.

 

Reading 2 1 COR 11:23-26

Brothers and sisters: I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus, on the night he was handed over, took bread, and, after he had given thanks, broke it and said, "This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me." In the same way also the cup, after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me." For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes.

 

Verse Before The Gospel JN 13:34

I give you a new commandment, says the Lord: love one another as I have loved you.

 

Gospel JN 13:1-15

Before the feast of Passover, Jesus knew that his hour had come to pass from this world to the Father. He loved his own in the world and he loved them to the end. The devil had already induced Judas, son of Simon the Iscariot, to hand him over. So, during supper, fully aware that the Father had put everything into his power and that he had come from God and was returning to God, he rose from supper and took off his outer garments. He took a towel and tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and dry them with the towel around his waist. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Master, are you going to wash my feet?" Jesus answered and said to him, "What I am doing, you do not understand now, but you will understand later." Peter said to him, "You will never wash my feet." Jesus answered him, "Unless I wash you, you will have no inheritance with me." Simon Peter said to him, "Master, then not only my feet, but my hands and head as well." Jesus said to him, "Whoever has bathed has no need except to have his feet washed, for he is clean all over; so you are clean, but not all." For he knew who would betray him; for this reason, he said, "Not all of you are clean."

 

So when he had washed their feet and put his garments back on and reclined at table again, he said to them, "Do you realize what I have done for you? You call me 'teacher' and 'master,' and rightly so, for indeed I am. If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another's feet. I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do."

 

 

Lords’s Supper

Unang Pagbasa Exodo 12, 1-8. 11-14

Noong mga araw na iyon: Sinabi ng Panginoon kina Moises at Aaron, “Mula ngayon, ang buwang ito ang magiging unang buwan ng taon para sa inyo. At sabihin ninyo sa buong pamayanan ng Israel na ikasampung araw ng buwang ito, bawat puno ng sambahayan ay pipili ng isang kordero o bisirong kambing para sa kanyang pamilya. Kung maliit ang pamilya at hindi makauubos ng isang buong kordero, magsasalo sila ng kalapit na pamilya, na hindi rin makauubos ng isang buo. Ang dami ng masasalu-salo sa isang kordero ay ibabatay sa dami ng makakain ng bawat isa. Kailangang ang kordero ay lalaki, isang taong gulang, walang pinsala o kapintasan. Kung walang tupa ay kahit kambing. Aalagaan itong mabuti hanggang sa ikalabing apat ng buwan at sa kinagabihan, sabay-sabay na papatayin ng buong bayan ang kani-kanilang kordero. Kukuha sila ng dugo nito at ipapahid sa mga hamba at sombrero ng pintuan ng bahay na kakainan ng kordero. Sa gabi ring iyon, lilitsunin ito at kakaning kasama ng tinapay na walang lebadura at ng mapapait na gulay.

Ganito naman ang magiging ayos ninyo sa pagkain nito: nakabigkis, nakasandalyas at may tangang tungkod; dalidali ang inyong pagkain nito. Ito ang Paskuwa ng Panginoon.

 

“Sa gabing yaon, lilibutin ko ang buong Egipto at papatayin ang lahat ng panganay na lalaki, maging tao o hayop man. At parurusahan ko ang lahat ng diyus-diyusan sa Egipto. Ako ang Panginoon. Lalampasan ko ang lahat ng bahay na makita kong may pahid na dugo, at walang pinsalang mangyayari sa inyo sa pagpaparusa ko sa buong Egipto. Ang dugo ang siyang magiging palatandaan na Israelita ang nakatira sa bahay na iyon. Ang araw na ito’y ipagdiriwang ninyo magpakailanman bilang pista ng Panginoon.”

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa 1 Corinto 11, 23-26

Mga kapatid:

 

Ito ang aral na tinanggap ko sa Panginoon at ibinibigay ko naman sa inyo: ang Panginoon at ibinibigay ko naman sa inyo: ang Panginoong Hesus, noong gabing siya’y ipagkanula ay dumampot ng tinapay, nagpasalamat, at pinaghati-hati ito, at sinabi, “Ito ang aking katawan ng inihahandog para sa inyo. Gawin ninyo ito sa pag-aalala sa akin.” Gayon din naman, matapos maghapunan ay hinawakan niya ang kalis at sinabi, “Ang kalis na ito ang bagong tipan na pinagtitibay ng aking dugo. Tuwing iinumin ninyo ito, gawin ninyo sa pag-alala sa akin.” Sapagkat tuwing kakain kayo ng tinapay na ito at iinom sa kalis na ito ay ipinahahayag ninyo ang kamatayan ng Panginoon, hanggang sa muling pagparito niya.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 13, 1-15

Bisperas na ng Paskuwa. Alam ni Hesus na dumating na ang panahon ng kanyang paglisan sa sanlibutang ito upang bumalik sa Ama. Mahal niya ang kanyang mga tagasunod na nasa sanlibutan, at ngayo’y ipakikita niya kung hanggang saan ang kanyang pag-ibig sa kanila.

 

Naghahapunan si Hesus at ang mga alagad. Naisilid na ng diyablo sa isip ni Judas, anak ni Simon Iscariote, ang pagkakanulo kay Hesus. Alam ni Hesus na ibinigay na sa kanya ng Ama ang buong kapangyarihan; alam din niyang siya’y mula sa Diyos at babalik sa Diyos. Kaya’t nang sila’y naghahapunan, tumindig si Hesus, naghubad ng kanyang panlabas na kasuotan, at nagbigkis ng tuwalya. Pagkatapos, nagbuhos siya ng tubig sa palanggana, at sinimulang hugasan ang paa ng mga alagad at punasan ng tuwalyang nakabigkis sa kanya. Paglapit niya kay Simon Pedro, tumutol ito. “Panginoon,” sabi niya, “diyata’t kayo pa ang maghuhugas ng aking mga paa?” Sumagot si Hesus, “Hindi mo nauunawan ngayon ang ginagawa ko, ngunit mauunawaan mo rin pagkatapos.” Sinabi sa kanya ni Pedro. “Hinding-hindi ko po pahuhugasan sa inyo ang aking mga paa.” “Kung hindi kita huhugasan, wala kang kaugnayan sa akin,” tugon ni Hesus. Kaya’t sinabi ni Pedro, “Panginoon, hindi lamang po ang mga paa ko, kundi pati ang aking kamay at ulo!” Ani Hesus, “Maliban

sa kanyang mga paa, hindi na kailangang hugasan pa ang naligo na, sapagkat malinis na ang kanyang buong katawan. At malinis na kayo, ngunit hindi lahat.” Sapagkat alam ni Hesus kung sino ang magkakanulo sa kanya, kaya sinabi niyang malinis na sila, ngunit hindi lahat.

 

Nang mahugasan na ni Hesus ang kanilang mga paa, siya’y nagsuot ng damit at nagbalik sa hapag. “Nauunawaan ba ninyo kung ano ang ginawa ko sa inyo?” tanong niya sa kanila. “Tinatawag ninyo akong Guro at Panginoon, at tama kayo, sapagkat ako nga. Kung akong Panginoon niyo at Guro ay naghugas ng inyong mga paa, dapat din kayong mahugasan ng paa. Binigyan ko kayo ng halimbawa at ito’y dapat ninyong tularan.”

 

 

APRIL 14, 2017

 

Reading 1 IS 52:13—53:12

See, my servant shall prosper, he shall be raised high and greatly exalted. Even as many were amazed at him so marred was his look beyond human semblance and his appearance beyond that of the sons of man so shall he startle many nations, because of him kings shall stand speechless; for those who have not been told shall see, those who have not heard shall ponder it.

 

Who would believe what we have heard? To whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? He grew up like a sapling before him, like a shoot from the parched earth; there was in him no stately bearing to make us look at him, nor appearance that would attract us to him. He was spurned and avoided by people, a man of suffering, accustomed to infirmity, one of those from whom people hide their faces, spurned, and we held him in no esteem.

 

Yet it was our infirmities that he bore, our sufferings that he endured, while we thought of him as stricken, as one smitten by God and afflicted. But he was pierced for our offenses, crushed for our sins; upon him was the chastisement that makes us whole, by his stripes we were healed. We had all gone astray like sheep, each following his own way; but the LORD laid upon him the guilt of us all.

 

Though he was harshly treated, he submitted and opened not his mouth; like a lamb led to the slaughter or a sheep before the shearers, he was silent and opened not his mouth. Oppressed and condemned, he was taken away, and who would have thought any more of his destiny? When he was cut off from the land of the living, and smitten for the sin of his people, a grave was assigned him among the wicked and a burial place with evildoers, though he had done no wrong nor spoken any falsehood. But the LORD was pleased to crush him in infirmity.

 

If he gives his life as an offering for sin, he shall see his descendants in a long life, and the will of the LORD shall be accomplished through him.

 

Because of his affliction he shall see the light in fullness of days; through his suffering, my servant shall justify many, and their guilt he shall bear. Therefore I will give him his portion among the great, and he shall divide the spoils with the mighty, because he surrendered himself to death and was counted among the wicked; and he shall take away the sins of many, and win pardon for their offenses.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 31:2, 6, 12-13, 15-16, 17, 25

R. Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.

 

In you, O LORD, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame. In your justice rescue me. Into your hands I commend my spirit; you will redeem me, O LORD, O faithful God.

R. Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.

 

For all my foes I am an object of reproach, a laughingstock to my neighbors, and a dread to my friends; they who see me abroad flee from me. I am forgotten like the unremembered dead; I am like a dish that is broken.

R. Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.

 

But my trust is in you, O LORD; I say, "You are my God. In your hands is my destiny; rescue me from the clutches of my enemies and my persecutors."

R. Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.

 

Let your face shine upon your servant; save me in your kindness. Take courage and be stouthearted, all you who hope in the LORD.

R. Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.

 

Reading 2 HEB 4:14-16; 5:7-9

Brothers and sisters: Since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin. So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help.

 

In the days when Christ was in the flesh, he offered prayers and supplications with loud cries and tears to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered; and when he was made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him.

 

Verse Before The Gospel PHIL 2:8-9

Christ became obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Because of the this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every other name.

 

Gospel JN 18:1—19:42

Jesus went out with his disciples across the Kidron valley to where there was a garden, into which he and his disciples entered. Judas his betrayer also knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. So Judas got a band of soldiers and guards from the chief priests and the Pharisees and went there with lanterns, torches, and weapons. Jesus, knowing everything that was going to happen to him, went out and said to them, "Whom are you looking for?" They answered him, "Jesus the Nazorean." He said to them, "I AM." Judas his betrayer was also with them. When he said to them, "I AM, " they turned away and fell to the ground. So he again asked them, "Whom are you looking for?" They said, "Jesus the Nazorean." Jesus answered, "I told you that I AM. So if you are looking for me, let these men go." This was to fulfill what he had said, "I have not lost any of those you gave me." Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it, struck the high priest's slave, and cut off his right ear. The slave's name was Malchus. Jesus said to Peter, "Put your sword into its scabbard. Shall I not drink the cup that the Father gave me?"

 

So the band of soldiers, the tribune, and the Jewish guards seized Jesus, bound him, and brought him to Annas first. He was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. It was Caiaphas who had counseled the Jews that it was better that one man should die rather than the people.

 

Simon Peter and another disciple followed Jesus. Now the other disciple was known to the high priest, and he entered the courtyard of the high priest with Jesus. But Peter stood at the gate outside. So the other disciple, the acquaintance of the high priest, went out and spoke to the gatekeeper and brought Peter in. Then the maid who was the gatekeeper said to Peter, "You are not one of this man's disciples, are you?" He said, "I am not." Now the slaves and the guards were standing around a charcoal fire that they had made, because it was cold, and were warming themselves. Peter was also standing there keeping warm.

 

The high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and about his doctrine. Jesus answered him, "I have spoken publicly to the world. I have always taught in a synagogue or in the temple area where all the Jews gather, and in secret I have said nothing. Why ask me? Ask those who heard me what I said to them. They know what I said." When he had said this, one of the temple guards standing there struck Jesus and said, "Is this the way you answer the high priest?" Jesus answered him, "If I have spoken wrongly, testify to the wrong; but if I have spoken rightly, why do you strike me?" Then Annas sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.

 

Now Simon Peter was standing there keeping warm. And they said to him, "You are not one of his disciples, are you?" He denied it and said, "I am not." One of the slaves of the high priest, a relative of the one whose ear Peter had cut off, said, "Didn't I see you in the garden with him?" Again Peter denied it. And immediately the cock crowed.

 

Then they brought Jesus from Caiaphas to the praetorium. It was morning. And they themselves did not enter the praetorium, in order not to be defiled so that they could eat the Passover. So Pilate came out to them and said, "What charge do you bring against this man?" They answered and said to him, "If he were not a criminal, we would not have handed him over to you." At this, Pilate said to them, "Take him yourselves, and judge him according to your law." The Jews answered him, "We do not have the right to execute anyone, " in order that the word of Jesus might be fulfilled that he said indicating the kind of death he would die. So Pilate went back into the praetorium and summoned Jesus and said to him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" Jesus answered, "Do you say this on your own or have others told you about me?" Pilate answered, "I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests handed you over to me. What have you done?" Jesus answered, "My kingdom does not belong to this world. If my kingdom did belong to this world, my attendants would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not here." So Pilate said to him, "Then you are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say I am a king. For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice." Pilate said to him, "What is truth?"

 

When he had said this, he again went out to the Jews and said to them, "I find no guilt in him. But you have a custom that I release one prisoner to you at Passover. Do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?" They cried out again, "Not this one but Barabbas!" Now Barabbas was a revolutionary.

 

Then Pilate took Jesus and had him scourged. And the soldiers wove a crown out of thorns and placed it on his head, and clothed him in a purple cloak, and they came to him and said, "Hail, King of the Jews!" And they struck him repeatedly. Once more Pilate went out and said to them, "Look, I am bringing him out to you, so that you may know that I find no guilt in him." So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple cloak. And he said to them, "Behold, the man!" When the chief priests and the guards saw him they cried out, "Crucify him, crucify him!" Pilate said to them, "Take him yourselves and crucify him. I find no guilt in him." The Jews answered, "We have a law, and according to that law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God." Now when Pilate heard this statement, he became even more afraid, and went back into the praetorium and said to Jesus, "Where are you from?" Jesus did not answer him. So Pilate said to him, "Do you not speak to me? Do you not know that I have power to release you and I have power to crucify you?" Jesus answered him, "You would have no power over me if it had not been given to you from above. For this reason the one who handed me over to you has the greater sin." Consequently, Pilate tried to release him; but the Jews cried out, "If you release him, you are not a Friend of Caesar. Everyone who makes himself a king opposes Caesar."

 

When Pilate heard these words he brought Jesus out and seated him on the judge's bench in the place called Stone Pavement, in Hebrew, Gabbatha. It was preparation day for Passover, and it was about noon. And he said to the Jews, "Behold, your king!" They cried out, "Take him away, take him away! Crucify him!" Pilate said to them, "Shall I crucify your king?" The chief priests answered, "We have no king but Caesar." Then he handed him over to them to be crucified.

 

So they took Jesus, and, carrying the cross himself, he went out to what is called the Place of the Skull, in Hebrew, Golgotha. There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, with Jesus in the middle. Pilate also had an inscription written and put on the cross. It read, "Jesus the Nazorean, the King of the Jews." Now many of the Jews read this inscription, because the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, "Do not write 'The King of the Jews,' but that he said, 'I am the King of the Jews'." Pilate answered, "What I have written, I have written."

 

When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his clothes and divided them into four shares, a share for each soldier. They also took his tunic, but the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from the top down. So they said to one another, "Let's not tear it, but cast lots for it to see whose it will be, " in order that the passage of Scripture might be fulfilled that says: They divided my garments among them, and for my vesture they cast lots. This is what the soldiers did. Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved he said to his mother, "Woman, behold, your son." Then he said to the disciple, "Behold, your mother." And from that hour the disciple took her into his home.

 

After this, aware that everything was now finished, in order that the Scripture might be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I thirst." There was a vessel filled with common wine. So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth. When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, "It is finished." And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit.

 

Here all kneel and pause for a short time.

 

Now since it was preparation day, in order that the bodies might not remain on the cross on the sabbath, for the sabbath day of that week was a solemn one, the Jews asked Pilate that their legs be broken and that they be taken down. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and then of the other one who was crucified with Jesus. But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out. An eyewitness has testified, and his testimony is true; he knows that he is speaking the truth, so that you also may come to believe. For this happened so that the Scripture passage might be fulfilled: Not a bone of it will be broken. And again another passage says: They will look upon him whom they have pierced.

 

After this, Joseph of Arimathea, secretly a disciple of Jesus for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate if he could remove the body of Jesus. And Pilate permitted it. So he came and took his body. Nicodemus, the one who had first come to him at night, also came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes weighing about one hundred pounds. They took the body of Jesus and bound it with burial cloths along with the spices, according to the Jewish burial custom. Now in the place where he had been crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had yet been buried. So they laid Jesus there because of the Jewish preparation day; for the tomb was close by.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Isaias 52, 13-53, 12

Sinabi ng Panginoon,

 

“Ang lingkod ko’y magtatagumpay sa kanyang gawain,

 

mababantog siya at dadakilain.

 

Marami ang nagitla

 

nang siya’y makita,

 

dahil sa pagkabugbog sa kanya’y

 

halos di makilala kung siya’y tao.

 

Ngayo’y marami rin

 

ang mga bansang magugulantang;

 

pati mga hari pag siya’y nakita ay matitigilan,

 

makikita nila ang di nabalita kahit na kailan,

 

at mauunawa ang di pa narinig ninuman!”

 

Sagot ng mga tao,

 

“Sino ang maniniwala sa ibinabalita naming ito?

 

Sino ang makapagpapatunay na pinahihintulutan ito ng Panginoon?

 

Kalooban ng Panginoon na ang kanyang lingkod

 

ay matulad sa isang halamang

 

Natanim sa tuyong lupa,

 

Walang katangian o kagandahang makatawag-pansin,

 

wala siyang taglay na pang-akit para lapitan siya.

 

Hinamak siya ng mga tao at itinakwil.

 

Nagdanas siya ng sakit at hirap.

 

Wala man lang nagtapon ng sulyap sa kanya.

 

Hindi natin siya ng sakit at hirap.

 

Wala man lang nagtapon sulyap sa kanya.

 

Hindi natin siya pinansin, para siyang walang kabuluhan.

 

Tiniis niya ang hirap

 

na tayo ang dapat magbata,

 

gayon din ang kirot na tayo sana ang lumasap;

 

akala natin ang dinanas niya’y

 

parusa sa kanya ng Diyos.

 

Dahil sa ating mga kasalanan kaya siya nasugatan;

 

Siya ay binugbog dahil sa ating kasamaan.

 

Tayo ay gumaling dahil sa pahirap na tinamo niya

 

at sa mga hampas na kanyang tinanggap.

 

Tayo ay gumaling dahil sa pahirap na tinamo niya

 

at sa mga hampas na kanyang tinanggap.

 

Tayong lahat ay parang mga tupang naligaw;

 

nagkanya-kanya tayo ng lakad.

 

Ngunit inibig ng Panginoon

 

na sa kanya ipataw ang parusang

 

tayo ang dapat tumanggap.

 

Siya ay binugbog at pinahirapan,

 

ngunit di tumutol kahit kamunti man;

 

tulad ay korderong hatid sa patayan,

 

parang mga tupang

 

hindi tumututol kahit na gupitan,

 

ni hindi umimik kahit gaputok man.

 

Nang siya’y hulihin, hatulan at dalhin sa dakong patayan,

 

wala mang nangahas na ipagsanggalang,

 

wala man lang dumamay.

 

Siya ay pinatay dahil sa sala ng sangkatauhan.

 

Siya’y inilibing

 

na kasama ng masasama at mayayaman,

 

bagaman wala siyang kasalanan

 

o nagsabi man ng kasinungalingan.

 

Sinabi ng Panginoon, “Ang kanyang paghihirap ay kalooban ko:

 

Inihandog niya ang sarili upang sa pamamagitan noon ay magkaroon ng kapatawaran.

 

Dahil dito’y mabubuhay siya nang matagal, makikita ang lahing susunod sa kanya.

 

At sa pamamagitan niya’y maisasagawa ang aking panukala.

 

Pagkatapos ng pagdurusa, lalasap siya ng ligaya, malalaman niyang hindi nawalan ng kabuluhan ang kanyang pagtitiis.

 

Ang aking tapat na lingkod at lubos kong kinalulugdan ang siyang tatanggap sa parusa ng marami at alang-alang sa kanya sila’y aking patatawarin.

 

Dahil dito siya’y aking pararangalan,

 

kasama ng mga dakila;

 

pagkat kusang-loob niyang ibinigay ang sarili

 

At nilasap ang kaparusahan ng masasama.

 

Inako niya ang mga makasalanan

 

at idinalanging sila’y patawarin.”

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa Hebreo 4, 14-16. 5, 7-9

Mga kapatid:

 

Magpakatatag tayo sa ating pananampalataya, yamang mayroon tayong dakilang saserdote na pumasok sa kalangitan sa harapan ng Diyos, walang iba kundi si Hesus na Anak ng Diyos. Ang dakilang saserdote nating ito ay nakauunawa sa ating mga kahinaan sapagkat sa lahat ng paraa’y tinukso siyang tulad natin, ngunit hindi nagkasala. Kaya’t huwag na tayong mag-atubiling lumapit sa trono ng mahabaging Diyos, at doo’y kakamtan natin ang habag at kalinga sa panahong kailangan natin ito.

 

Noong si Hesus ay namumuhay dito sa lupa, siya’y dumalangin at lumuluhang sumamo sa Diyos na makapagliligtas sa kanya sa kamatayan. At dininig siya dahil sa lubusan siyang nagpakumbaba. Bagamat siya’y Anak ng Diyos, natutuhan niya ang tunay na kahulugan ng pagsunod sa pamamagitan ng pagtitiis. At nang maganap na niya ito, siya’y naging walang hanggang Tagapagligtas ng lahat ng sumusunod sa kanya.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 18, 1-19. 42

 

Noong panahong iyon, Umalis Si Hesus kasama ang kanyang mga alagad. Pumunta sila sa ibayo ng batis Cedron at pumasok sa isang halamanan doon. Ang lugar na ito’y alam ni Judas na nagkanula sa kanya, sapagkat madalas magpunta roon si Hesus at ang kanyang mga alagad. Pumaroon si Judas, kasama ang ilang bantay na padala ng mga punong saserdote at mga Pariseo. May dala silang mga parol, sulo at sandata. Alam ni Hesus ang lahat ng mangyayari sa kanya, kaya’t sila’y sinalubong niya at tinanong, “Sino ang hinahanap ninyo?” “Si Hesus na taga-Nazaret,” tugon nila. Sinabi niya, “Ako si Hesus.”

 

Kaharap nila si Judas na nagkanulo sa kanya. Nang sabihin ni Hesus na siya nga, napaurong sila at nabuwal sa lupa. Muli siyang nagtanong, “Sino nga ba ang hinahanap ninyo?” “Si Hesus na taga-Nazaret,” sagot nila. “Sinabi ko na sa inyong ako si Hesus. Kung anko ang hinahanap ninyo, hayaan ninyong umalis ang mga taong ito,” wika niya. Sinabi niya ito upang matupad ang kanyang salita, “Walang napahamak kahit isa sa mga ibinigay mo sa akin, Ama.” Binunot ni Simon Pedro ang kanyang tabak at tinaga ang alipin ng pinakapunong saserdote. Natigpas ang kanang tainga ng aliping yaon na ang pangala’y Malco. Sinabi ni Hesus kay Pedro, “Isalong mo ang iyong tabak! Dapat kong inumin ang kalis ng paghihirap na ibinigay sa akin ng Ama.”

 

Si Hesus ay dinakip at ginapos ng mga bantay na Judio at ng pangkat ng mga kawal sa pamumuno ng kanilang kapitan. Siya’y dinala muna kay Anas na biyanan ni Caifas ang nagpayo sa mga Judio na mas mabuti para sa kanila ng isang tao lamang ang mamatay alang-alang sa bayan.

 

Si Simon Pedro at ang isa pang alagad ay sumunod kay Hesus. Kilala ng pinakapunong saserdote ang alagad na ito, kaya’t nakapasok siyang kasama ni Hesus sa patyo ng bahay ng pinakapunong saserdote. Naiwan naman si Pedro sa labas ng pintuan. Lumabas ang alagad na kilala ng pinakapunong saserdote, kinausap ang dalagang nagbabantay sa pinto, at pinapasok si Pedro. Si Pedro’y tinanong ng dalaga, “Hindi ba’t isa ka sa mga alagad ng taong iyan?” “Hindi ba’t isa ka sa mga alagad ng taong iyan?” “Hindi,” sagot ni Pedro.

 

Maginaw noon, kaya’t nagpabaga ng uling ang mga alipin at mga bantay at tumayo sa paligid ng siga upang, magpainit. Nakihalo si Pedro at nagpainit din.

 

Si Hesus at tinanong ng pinakapunong saserdote tungkol sa kanyang mga alagad at sa kanyang itinuturo. Sumagot si Hesus, “Hayagan akong nagsasalita sa madla; lagi akong nagtuturo sa mga sinagoga at sa templo ng mga Judio. Wala akong sinabing palihim. Bakit ako ang tinatanong ninyo? Ang tanungin ninyo’y ang mga nakarinig sa akin; alam nila kung ano ang sinabi ko.” Pagkasabi nito, siya’y sinampal ng isa sa mga bantay na naroroon. “Bakit mo sinasagot nang ganyan ang pinakapunong saserdote?” tanong niya. Sinagot siya ni Hesus, “Kung nagsalita ako ng masama, patunayan mo! Ngunit kung mabuti ang sinabi ko, bakit mo ako sinampal?”

 

Si Hesus na nagagapos pa noon ay ipinadala ni Anas kay Caifas, ang pinakapunong saserdote.

 

Samantala, naroon pa rin si Simon Pedro at nagpapainit. Siya’y tinanong nila, “Hindi ba’t alagad ka rin ng taong iyan?” “Hindi!” sagot ni Pedro. Tinanong naman siya ng isa sa mga alipin ng pinakapunong saserdote, kamag-anak ng lalaking tinigpasan niya ng tainga, “Hindi ba ikaw ang nakita kong kasama ni Hesus sa halamanan?” Muling itinatwa ito ni Pedro. Siya namang pagtilaok ng manok.

 

Mula sa bahay ni Caifas, si Hesus ay dinala nila sa palasyo ng gobernador. Umaga na noon. Hindi pumasok ang mga Judio sa palasyo ng gobernador, upang sila’y huwag maituring na di-karapat-dapat kumain ng Hapunang Pampaskuwa. Kaya’t sa labas sila tinanggap ni Pilato at tinanong, “Ano ang sakdal ninyo laban sa taong ito?” Sumagot sila, “Kung hindi po siya gumawa ng masama, hindi namin siya dadalhin sa inyo.” Sinabi sa kanila ni Pilato, “Dalhin ninyo siya, at hatulan ayon sa inyong kautusan.” Sumagot ang mga Judio, “Wala po kaming kapangyarihang humatol ng kamatayan kaninuman.” Nangyari ito upang matupad ang sinabi ni Hesus tungkol sa paraan ng kanyang pagkamatay. Si Pilato’y pumasok uli sa palasyo at tinawag si Hesus, “Ikaw ba ang Hari ng mga Judio?’ tanong niya. Sumagot si Hesus, “Iyan ba’y galing sa inyong sariling isipan, o may nagsabi sa inyo?” “Ako ba’y Judio?” tanong ni Pilato. “Ang mga kababayan mo at ang mga punong saserdote ang nagdala sa iyo rito. Ano ba ang ginawa mo?” Sumagot si Hesus, “Ang kaharian

ko’y hindi sa sanlibutang ito. Kung sa sanlibutang ito ang aking kaharian, ipinakipaglaban sana ako ng aking mga tauhan at hindi naipagkanulo sa mga Judio. Ngunit hindi sa sanlibutang ito ang aking kaharian!” “Kung gayon, isa kang hari?” sabi ni Pilato. Sumagot si Hesus, “Kayo na ang nagsasabing ako’y hari. Ito ang dahilan kung bakit ako ipinanganak at naparito sa sanlibutan: upang magsalita tungkol sa katotohanan. Nakikinig sa aking tinig ang sinumang nasa katotohanan.” “Ano ba ang katotohanan?” tanong ni Pilato.

 

Pagkasabi nito, muling lumabas si Pilato at sinabi sa mga Judio, “Wala akong makitang kasalanan sa taong ito. Ngunit ayon sa inyong kaugalian, dapat akong magpalaya ng isang bilanggo kung araw ng Paskuwa. Ibig ba ninyong palayain ko ang Hari ng mga Judio?” “Hindi!” sigaw nila. “Huwag siya, kundi si Barrabas!” Si Barrabas ay isang tulisan.

 

Kaya’t ipinakuha ni Pilato si Hesus at ipinahagupit. Ang mga kawal ay kumuha ng halamang matinik, ginawang korona, at ipinutong kay Hesus. At sinuutan siya ng balabal na purpura. Isa’t isa’y lumapit sa kanya at ang wika, “Mabuhay ang Hari ng mga Judio!” At siya’y pinagsasampal.

 

Lumabas uli si Pilato at sinabi sa kanila, “Ihaharap ko siya sa inyo upang malaman ninyo na wala akong makitang kasalanan niya!” At inilabas si Hesus na may koronang tinik at balabal na purpura. Sinabi sa kanila ni Pilato, “Narito ang tao!” Pagkakita sa kanya ng mga punong saserdote at ng mga bantay, sila’y sumigaw: “Ipako siya sa krus! Ipako siya sa krus!” Sinabi ni Pilato, “Kunin ninyo siya, at kayo ang magpako sa kanya. Wala akong makitang kasalanan niya.” Sumagot ang mga Judiom “Ayon sa aming kautusa’y nararapat siyang mamatay, sapagkat siya’y nagpapanggap na Anak ng Diyos.”

 

Lalong natakot si Pilato nang marinig ang mga pananalitang ito. Muli siyang pumasok sa palasyo at tinanong si Hesus, “Tagasaan ka ba?” Subalit hindi tumugon si Hesus. “Ayaw mo bang makipag-usap sa akin?” ani Pilato. “Hindi mo ba alam na maaari kitang palayain o ipapako sa krus?” At sumagot si Hesus, “Kaya mo lamang magagawa iyan ay sapagkat ipinagkaloob sa iyo ng Diyos ang kapangyarihang iyan, kaya mas mabigat ang kasalanan ng nagdala sa akin dito.” Nang marinig ito ni Pilato, lalo niyang hinangad na palayain si Hesus. Ngunit nagsigawan ang mga tao, “Kapag pinalaya mo ang taong iyan, hindi ka kaibigan ni Cesar! Sinumang nagpapanggap na hari ay kalaban ng Cesar.” Pagkarinig ni Pilato sa pangungusap na ito, inilabas niya si Hesus. At siya’y lumuklok sa hukuman, sa dakong tinatawag na “Ang Plataporma,” Gabata sa wikang Hebreo.

 

Araw noon ng Paghahanda sa Paskuwa at mag-iikalabindalawa na ng tanghali. Sinabi ni Pilato sa mga Judio, “Narito ang inyong hari!” Sumigaw sila, “Patayin siya! Patayin! Ipako sa krus!” “Ipapako ko ba sa krus ang inyong hari?” tanong ni Pilato. Sumagot ang mga punong saserdote, “Wala kaming hari kundi ang Cesar!” Kaya’t si Hesus ay ibinigay sa kanila ni Pilato upang ipako sa krus.

 

Kinuha nga nila si Hesus. At lumabas siya na pasan ang kanyang krus, patungo sa lugar na kung tawagi’y “Dako ng Bungo,” Golgota sa wikang Hebreo. Pagdating doon, siya’y ipinako sa krus, kasama ng dalawa pa – isa sa gawing kanan at isa sa kaliwa. Sumulat si Pilato ng ganitong pangungusap at ipinalagay sa krus: “Si Hesus na taga-Nazaret, ang Hari ng mga Judio.” Nasusulat ito sa mga wikang Hebreo, Latin, at Griego at marami sa mga Judio ang nakabasa nito, sapagkat malapit sa lungsod ang dakong pinagpakuan kay Hesus. Kaya’t sinabi ng mga punong saserdote kay Pilato, “Huwag ninyong isulat na Hari ng mga Judio, kundi, ‘Sinabi ng taong ito, Ako ang Hari ng mga Judio.’” Sumagot si Pilato, “Ang naisulat ko’y naisulat ko na.”

 

Nang maipako na ng mga kawal si Hesus, kinuha nila ang kanyang kasuotan at pinaghati-hatian ng apat. Kinuha rin nila ang kanyang tunika; ito’y walang tahi at hinabi nang buo mula sa itaas hanggang sa ibaba. Nag-usap-usap ang mga kawal, “Huwag nating punitin ito; magsapalaran na lamang tayo para malaman kung kanino ito mauuwi.” Nangyari ito upang matupad ang isinasaad ng Kasulatan,

 

“Pinaghati-hatian nila ang aking mga kasuotan;

 

at ang aking damit ay kanilang pinagsapalaran.”

 

Gayon nga ang ginawa ng mga kawal.

 

Nakatayo sa tabi ng krus ni Hesus ang kanyang ina at ang kapatid na babae nitong si Maria, na asawa ni Cleopas. Naroon din si Maria Magdalena. Nang makita ni Hesus ang kanyang ina, at ang minamahal niyang alagad sa tabi nito, kanyang sinabi, “Ginang, narito ang iyong anak!” At sinabi sa alagad, “Narito ang iyong ina!” Mula noon, siya’y pinatira ng alagad na ito sa kanyang bahay.

 

Pagkatapos nito, alam ni Hesus na naganap na ang lahat ng bagay; at bilang katuparan ng Kasulatan ay sinabi niya, “Nauuhaw ako!” May isang mangkok doon na puno ng maasim na alak. Itinubog nila rito ang isang espongha, ikinabit sa sanga ng isopo at idiniit sa kanyang bibig. Nang masisip ni Hesus ang alak ay kanyang sinabi, “Naganap na!” Iniyukayok niya ang kanyang ulo at nalagot ang kanyang hininga.

 

Noo’y Araw ng Paghahanda, at ayaw ng mga Judio na manatili sa krus ang mga bangkay sa Araw ng Pamamahinga sapagkat dakila ang Araw ng Pamamahingang ito. Kaya’t hiniling nila kay Pilato na ipabali ninto ang mga binti ng mga ipinako sa krus, at alisin doon ang mga bangkay. Naparoon nga ang mga kawal at binali ang mga binti ng dalawang ipinakong kasabay ni Hesus. Ngunit pagdating nila kay Hesus at makitang patay na siya, hindi na nila binali ang kanyang binti. Subalit inulos ng sibat ng isa sa mga kawal ang tagiliran ni Hesus, at biglang dumaloy ang dugo at tubig. Ang nakakito nito ang nagpapatotoo — tunay ang kanyang patotoo at alam niyang katotohanan ang sinabi niya – upang kayo’y maniwala. Nangyari ang mga ito upang matupad ang sinabi ng kasulutan, “Walang mababali isa man sa kanyang mga buto.” At sinabi naman ng ibang bahagi ng Kasulatan, “Pagmamasdan nila ang kanilang inulos.”

 

Pagkatapos nito, Si Jose na taga-Arimatea ay nagsadya kay Pilato upang humingi ng pahintulot na makuha ang bangkay ni Hesus. Si Jose’y isang alagad ni Hesus, ngunit palihim nga lamang dahil sa takot sa mga Judio. At pinahintulutan siya ni Pilato; kaya’t kinuha ni Jose ang bangkay ni Hesus. Sumama sa kanya si Nicodemo, may dalang pabango – mga sandaang libra ng pinaghalong mira at aloe. Siya ang nagsadya kay Hesus isang gabi. Kinuha nila ang bangkay ni Hesus, at nilagyan ng pabango habang binabalot sa kayong lino, ayon sa kaugalian ng mga Judio. Sa pinagpakuan kay Hesus ay may isang halamanan, at dito’y may isang bagong libingang hindi pa napaglilibingan. Yamang noo’y araw ng Paghahanda ng mga Judio, at dahil sa malapit naman ang libingang ito, doon nila inilibing si Hesus.

 

 

APRIL 15, 2017

Reading 1 GN 1:1—2:2

In the beginning, when God created the heavens and the earth, the earth was a formless wasteland, and darkness covered the abyss, while a mighty wind swept over the waters.

 

Then God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. God saw how good the light was. God then separated the light from the darkness. God called the light "day," and the darkness he called "night." Thus evening came, and morning followed—the first day.

 

Then God said, "Let there be a dome in the middle of the waters, to separate one body of water from the other." And so it happened: God made the dome, and it separated the water above the dome from the water below it. God called the dome "the sky." Evening came, and morning followed—the second day.

 

Then God said, "Let the water under the sky be gathered into a single basin, so that the dry land may appear." And so it happened: the water under the sky was gathered into its basin, and the dry land appeared. God called the dry land "the earth, " and the basin of the water he called "the sea." God saw how good it was. Then God said, "Let the earth bring forth vegetation: every kind of plant that bears seed and every kind of fruit tree on earth that bears fruit with its seed in it." And so it happened: the earth brought forth every kind of plant that bears seed and every kind of fruit tree on earth that bears fruit with its seed in it. God saw how good it was. Evening came, and morning followed—the third day.

 

Then God said: "Let there be lights in the dome of the sky, to separate day from night. Let them mark the fixed times, the days and the years, and serve as luminaries in the dome of the sky, to shed light upon the earth." And so it happened: God made the two great lights, the greater one to govern the day, and the lesser one to govern the night; and he made the stars. God set them in the dome of the sky, to shed light upon the earth, to govern the day and the night, and to separate the light from the darkness. God saw how good it was. Evening came, and morning followed—the fourth day.

 

Then God said, "Let the water teem with an abundance of living creatures, and on the earth let birds fly beneath the dome of the sky." And so it happened: God created the great sea monsters and all kinds of swimming creatures with which the water teems, and all kinds of winged birds. God saw how good it was, and God blessed them, saying, "Be fertile, multiply, and fill the water of the seas; and let the birds multiply on the earth." Evening came, and morning followed—the fifth day.

 

Then God said, "Let the earth bring forth all kinds of living creatures: cattle, creeping things, and wild animals of all kinds." And so it happened: God made all kinds of wild animals, all kinds of cattle, and all kinds of creeping things of the earth. God saw how good it was. Then God said: "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and the cattle, and over all the wild animals and all the creatures that crawl on the ground." God created man in his image; in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. God blessed them, saying: "Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth." God also said: "See, I give you every seed-bearing plant all over the earth and every tree that has seed-bearing fruit on it to be your food; and to all the animals of the land, all the birds of the air, and all the living creatures that crawl on the ground, I give all the green plants for food." And so it happened. God looked at everything he had made, and he found it very good. Evening came, and morning followed—the sixth day.

 

Thus the heavens and the earth and all their array were completed. Since on the seventh day God was finished with the work he had been doing, he rested on the seventh day from all the work he had undertaken.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 104:1-2, 5-6, 10, 12, 13-14, 24, 35

R. Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.

 

Bless the LORD, O my soul! O LORD, my God, you are great indeed! You are clothed with majesty and glory, robed in light as with a cloak.

R. Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.

 

You fixed the earth upon its foundation, not to be moved forever; with the ocean, as with a garment, you covered it; above the mountains the waters stood.

R. Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.

 

You send forth springs into the watercourses that wind among the mountains. Beside them the birds of heaven dwell; from among the branches they send forth their song.

R. Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.

 

You water the mountains from your palace; the earth is replete with the fruit of your works. You raise grass for the cattle, and vegetation for man's use, Producing bread from the earth.

R. Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.

 

How manifold are your works, O LORD! In wisdom you have wrought them all—the earth is full of your creatures. Bless the LORD, O my soul! Alleluia.

R. Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.

 

Reading 2 GN 22:1-18

God put Abraham to the test. He called to him, "Abraham!" "Here I am, " he replied. Then God said: "Take your son Isaac, your only one, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah. There you shall offer him up as a holocaust on a height that I will point out to you." Early the next morning Abraham saddled his donkey, took with him his son Isaac and two of his servants as well, and with the wood that he had cut for the holocaust, set out for the place of which God had told him.

 

On the third day Abraham got sight of the place from afar. Then he said to his servants: "Both of you stay here with the donkey, while the boy and I go on over yonder. We will worship and then come back to you." Thereupon Abraham took the wood for the holocaust and laid it on his son Isaac's shoulders, while he himself carried the fire and the knife. As the two walked on together, Isaac spoke to his father Abraham: "Father!" Isaac said. "Yes, son, " he replied. Isaac continued, "Here are the fire and the wood, but where is the sheep for the holocaust?" "Son," Abraham answered, "God himself will provide the sheep for the holocaust." Then the two continued going forward.

 

When they came to the place of which God had told him, Abraham built an altar there and arranged the wood on it. Next he tied up his son Isaac, and put him on top of the wood on the altar. Then he reached out and took the knife to slaughter his son. But the LORD's messenger called to him from heaven, "Abraham, Abraham!" "Here I am!" he answered. "Do not lay your hand on the boy," said the messenger. "Do not do the least thing to him. I know now how devoted you are to God, since you did not withhold from me your own beloved son." As Abraham looked about, he spied a ram caught by its horns in the thicket. So he went and took the ram and offered it up as a holocaust in place of his son. Abraham named the site Yahweh-yireh; hence people now say, "On the mountain the LORD will see."

 

Again the LORD's messenger called to Abraham from heaven and said: "I swear by myself, declares the LORD, that because you acted as you did in not withholding from me your beloved son, I will bless you abundantly and make your descendants as countless as the stars of the sky and the sands of the seashore; your descendants shall take possession of the gates of their enemies, and in your descendants all the nations of the earth shall find blessing all this because you obeyed my command."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 16:5, 8, 9-10, 11

R. You are my inheritance, O Lord.

 

O LORD, my allotted portion and my cup, you it is who hold fast my lot. I set the LORD ever before me; with him at my right hand I shall not be disturbed.

R. You are my inheritance, O Lord.

 

Therefore my heart is glad and my soul rejoices, my body, too, abides in confidence; because you will not abandon my soul to the netherworld, nor will you suffer your faithful one to undergo corruption.

R. You are my inheritance, O Lord.

 

You will show me the path to life, fullness of joys in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever.

R. You are my inheritance, O Lord.

 

Reading 3 EX 14:15—15:1

The LORD said to Moses, "Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to go forward. And you, lift up your staff and, with hand outstretched over the sea, split the sea in two, that the Israelites may pass through it on dry land. But I will make the Egyptians so obstinate that they will go in after them. Then I will receive glory through Pharaoh and all his army, his chariots and charioteers. The Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I receive glory through Pharaoh and his chariots and charioteers."

 

The angel of God, who had been leading Israel's camp, now moved and went around behind them. The column of cloud also, leaving the front, took up its place behind them, so that it came between the camp of the Egyptians and that of Israel. But the cloud now became dark, and thus the night passed without the rival camps coming any closer together all night long. Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and the LORD swept the sea with a strong east wind throughout the night and so turned it into dry land. When the water was thus divided, the Israelites marched into the midst of the sea on dry land, with the water like a wall to their right and to their left.

 

The Egyptians followed in pursuit; all Pharaoh's horses and chariots and charioteers went after them right into the midst of the sea. In the night watch just before dawn the LORD cast through the column of the fiery cloud upon the Egyptian force a glance that threw it into a panic; and he so clogged their chariot wheels that they could hardly drive. With that the Egyptians sounded the retreat before Israel, because the LORD was fighting for them against the Egyptians.

 

Then the LORD told Moses, "Stretch out your hand over the sea, that the water may flow back upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots and their charioteers." So Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and at dawn the sea flowed back to its normal depth. The Egyptians were fleeing head on toward the sea, when the LORD hurled them into its midst. As the water flowed back, it covered the chariots and the charioteers of Pharaoh's whole army which had followed the Israelites into the sea. Not a single one of them escaped. But the Israelites had marched on dry land through the midst of the sea, with the water like a wall to their right and to their left. Thus the LORD saved Israel on that day from the power of the Egyptians. When Israel saw the Egyptians lying dead on the seashore and beheld the great power that the LORD had shown against the Egyptians, they feared the LORD and believed in him and in his servant Moses.

 

Then Moses and the Israelites sang this song to the LORD: I will sing to the LORD, for he is gloriously triumphant; horse and chariot he has cast into the sea.

 

Responsorial Psalm EX 15:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 17-18

R. Let us sing to the Lord; he has covered himself in glory.

 

I will sing to the LORD, for he is gloriously triumphant; horse and chariot he has cast into the sea. My strength and my courage is the LORD, and he has been my savior. He is my God, I praise him; the God of my father, I extol him.

R. Let us sing to the Lord; he has covered himself in glory.

 

The LORD is a warrior, LORD is his name! Pharaoh's chariots and army he hurled into the sea; the elite of his officers were submerged in the Red Sea.

R. Let us sing to the Lord; he has covered himself in glory.

 

The flood waters covered them, they sank into the depths like a stone. Your right hand, O LORD, magnificent in power, your right hand, O LORD, has shattered the enemy.

R. Let us sing to the Lord; he has covered himself in glory.

 

You brought in the people you redeemed and planted them on the mountain of your inheritance the place where you made your seat, O LORD, the sanctuary, LORD, which your hands established. The LORD shall reign forever and ever.

R. Let us sing to the Lord; he has covered himself in glory.

 

Reading 4 IS 54:5-14

The One who has become your husband is your Maker; his name is the LORD of hosts; your redeemer is the Holy One of Israel, called God of all the earth. The LORD calls you back, like a wife forsaken and grieved in spirit, a wife married in youth and then cast off, says your God. For a brief moment I abandoned you, but with great tenderness I will take you back. In an outburst of wrath, for a moment I hid my face from you; but with enduring love I take pity on you, says the LORD, your redeemer. This is for me like the days of Noah, when I swore that the waters of Noah should never again deluge the earth; so I have sworn not to be angry with you, or to rebuke you. Though the mountains leave their place and the hills be shaken, my love shall never leave you nor my covenant of peace be shaken, says the LORD, who has mercy on you. O afflicted one, storm-battered and unconsoled, I lay your pavements in carnelians, and your foundations in sapphires; I will make your battlements of rubies, your gates of carbuncles, and all your walls of precious stones. All your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great shall be the peace of your children. In justice shall you be established, far from the fear of oppression, where destruction cannot come near you.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 30:2, 4, 5-6, 11-12, 13

R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.

 

I will extol you, O LORD, for you drew me clear and did not let my enemies rejoice over me. O LORD, you brought me up from the netherworld; you preserved me from among those going down into the pit.

R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.

 

Sing praise to the LORD, you his faithful ones, and give thanks to his holy name. For his anger lasts but a moment; a lifetime, his good will. At nightfall, weeping enters in, but with the dawn, rejoicing.

R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.

 

Hear, O LORD, and have pity on me; O LORD, be my helper. You changed my mourning into dancing; O LORD, my God, forever will I give you thanks.

R. I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.

 

Reading 5 IS 55:1-11

Thus says the LORD: All you who are thirsty, come to the water! You who have no money, come, receive grain and eat; come, without paying and without cost, drink wine and milk! Why spend your money for what is not bread, your wages for what fails to satisfy? Heed me, and you shall eat well, you shall delight in rich fare. Come to me heedfully, listen, that you may have life. I will renew with you the everlasting covenant, the benefits assured to David. As I made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander of nations, so shall you summon a nation you knew not, and nations that knew you not shall run to you, because of the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, who has glorified you.

 

Seek the LORD while he may be found, call him while he is near. Let the scoundrel forsake his way, and the wicked man his thoughts; let him turn to the LORD for mercy; to our God, who is generous in forgiving. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the LORD. As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways above your ways and my thoughts above your thoughts.

 

For just as from the heavens the rain and snow come down and do not return there till they have watered the earth, making it fertile and fruitful, giving seed to the one who sows and bread to the one who eats, so shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; my word shall not return to me void, but shall do my will, achieving the end for which I sent it.

 

Responsorial Psalm IS 12:2-3, 4, 5-6

R. You will draw water joyfully from the springs of salvation.

 

God indeed is my savior; I am confident and unafraid. My strength and my courage is the LORD, and he has been my savior. With joy you will draw water at the fountain of salvation.

R. You will draw water joyfully from the springs of salvation.

 

Give thanks to the LORD, acclaim his name; among the nations make known his deeds, proclaim how exalted is his name.

R. You will draw water joyfully from the springs of salvation.

 

Sing praise to the LORD for his glorious achievement; let this be known throughout all the earth. Shout with exultation, O city of Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel!

R. You will draw water joyfully from the springs of salvation.

 

Reading 6 BAR 3:9-15, 32C4:4

Hear, O Israel, the commandments of life: listen, and know prudence! How is it, Israel, that you are in the land of your foes, grown old in a foreign land, defiled with the dead, accounted with those destined for the netherworld? You have forsaken the fountain of wisdom! Had you walked in the way of God, you would have dwelt in enduring peace. Learn where prudence is, where strength, where understanding; that you may know also where are length of days, and life, where light of the eyes, and peace. Who has found the place of wisdom, who has entered into her treasuries?

 

The One who knows all things knows her; he has probed her by his knowledge. The One who established the earth for all time, and filled it with four-footed beasts; he who dismisses the light, and it departs, calls it, and it obeys him trembling; before whom the stars at their posts shine and rejoice; when he calls them, they answer, "Here we are!" shining with joy for their Maker. Such is our God; no other is to be compared to him: He has traced out the whole way of understanding, and has given her to Jacob, his servant, to Israel, his beloved son.

 

Since then she has appeared on earth, and moved among people. She is the book of the precepts of God, the law that endures forever; all who cling to her will live, but those will die who forsake her. Turn, O Jacob, and receive her: walk by her light toward splendor. Give not your glory to another, your privileges to an alien race. Blessed are we, O Israel; for what pleases God is known to us!

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 19:8, 9, 10, 11

R. Lord, you have the words of everlasting life.

 

The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul; the decree of the LORD is trustworthy, giving wisdom to the simple.

R. Lord, you have the words of everlasting life.

 

The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the command of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eye.

R. Lord, you have the words of everlasting life.

 

The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the LORD are true, all of them just.

R. Lord, you have the words of everlasting life.

 

They are more precious than gold, than a heap of purest gold; sweeter also than syrup or honey from the comb.

R. Lord, you have the words of everlasting life.

 

Reading 7 EZ 36:16-17A, 18-28

The word of the LORD came to me, saying: Son of man, when the house of Israel lived in their land, they defiled it by their conduct and deeds. Therefore I poured out my fury upon them because of the blood that they poured out on the ground, and because they defiled it with idols. I scattered them among the nations, dispersing them over foreign lands; according to their conduct and deeds I judged them. But when they came among the nations wherever they came, they served to profane my holy name, because it was said of them: "These are the people of the LORD, yet they had to leave their land." So I have relented because of my holy name which the house of Israel profaned among the nations where they came. Therefore say to the house of Israel: Thus says the Lord GOD: Not for your sakes do I act, house of Israel, but for the sake of my holy name, which you profaned among the nations to which you came. I will prove the holiness of my great name, profaned among the nations, in whose midst you have profaned it. Thus the nations shall know that I am the LORD, says the Lord GOD, when in their sight I prove my holiness through you. For I will take you away from among the nations, gather you from all the foreign lands, and bring you back to your own land. I will sprinkle clean water upon you to cleanse you from all your impurities, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. I will give you a new heart and place a new spirit within you, taking from your bodies your stony hearts and giving you natural hearts. I will put my spirit within you and make you live by my statutes, careful to observe my decrees. You shall live in the land I gave your fathers; you shall be my people, and I will be your God.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 42:3, 5; 43:3, 4

When baptism is celebrated.

R. Like a deer that longs for running streams, my soul longs for you, my God.

 

Athirst is my soul for God, the living God. When shall I go and behold the face of God?

R. Like a deer that longs for running streams, my soul longs for you, my God.

 

I went with the throng and led them in procession to the house of God, Amid loud cries of joy and thanksgiving, with the multitude keeping festival.

R. Like a deer that longs for running streams, my soul longs for you, my God.

 

Send forth your light and your fidelity; they shall lead me on And bring me to your holy mountain, to your dwelling-place.

R. Like a deer that longs for running streams, my soul longs for you, my God.

 

Then will I go in to the altar of God, the God of my gladness and joy; then will I give you thanks upon the harp, O God, my God!

R. Like a deer that longs for running streams, my soul longs for you, my God.

 

 

Epistle ROM 6:3-11

Brothers and sisters: Are you unaware that we who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were indeed buried with him through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might live in newness of life.

 

For if we have grown into union with him through a death like his, we shall also be united with him in the resurrection. We know that our old self was crucified with him, so that our sinful body might be done away with, that we might no longer be in slavery to sin. For a dead person has been absolved from sin. If, then, we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him. We know that Christ, raised from the dead, dies no more; death no longer has power over him. As to his death, he died to sin once and for all; as to his life, he lives for God. Consequently, you too must think of yourselves as being dead to sin and living for God in Christ Jesus.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23

R. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

 

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his mercy endures forever. Let the house of Israel say, "His mercy endures forever."

R. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

 

The right hand of the LORD has struck with power; the right hand of the LORD is exalted. I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.

R. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

 

The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. By the LORD has this been done; it is wonderful in our eyes.

R. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MT 28:1-10

After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb. And behold, there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, approached, rolled back the stone, and sat upon it. His appearance was like lightning and his clothing was white as snow. The guards were shaken with fear of him and became like dead men. Then the angel said to the women in reply, "Do not be afraid! I know that you are seeking Jesus the crucified. He is not here, for he has been raised just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, 'He has been raised from the dead, and he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him.' Behold, I have told you." Then they went away quickly from the tomb, fearful yet overjoyed, and ran to announce this to his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them on their way and greeted them. They approached, embraced his feet, and did him homage. Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me."

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Genesis 1, 1. 26-31a

Nang simulang likhain ng Diyos ang lupa at ang langit, sinabi ng Diyos: “Ngayon, lalangin natin ang tao. Ating gagawin siyang kalarawan natin. Siya ang mamamahala sa mga isda, mga ibon at lahat ng hayop, maging maamo o mailap, malaki o maliit.” Nilalang nga ng Diyos ang tao ayon sa kanyang larawan. Lumalang siya ng isang lalaki at isang babae, at sila’y pinagpala. Wika niya, “Magpakarami kayo at punuin ng inyong mga supling ang buong daigdig, at pamahalaan ito. Binibigyan ko kayo ng kapangyarihan sa mga isda, sa mga ibon, at sa lahat ng maiilap na hayop, maging malalaki o maliliit. Bibigyan ko rin kayo ng lahat ng uri ng butil at mga bungangkahoy na inyong makakain. Ang lahat ng halamang luntian ay ibibigay ko naman sa maiilap na hayop, malaki man o maliit, at sa lahat ng mga ibon.” At ito nga ang nangyari. Pinagmasdan ng Diyos ang lahat niyang ginawa, at lubos siyang nasiyahan.

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa Genesis 22, 1-2. 9a. 10-13. 15-18

Noong mga araw na iyon, sinubok ng Diyos si Abraham. Tinawag siya ng Diyos at tumugon naman siya.

 

Sinabi sa kanya, “Isama mo ang pinakamamahal mong anak na si Isaac, at magpunta kayo sa lupain ng Moria. Umakyat kayo sa bundok na ituturo ko sa iyo, at ihandog mo siya sa akin.”

 

Pagsapit nila sa dakong itnuro ng Diyos, gumawa ng dambana si Abraham. Inayos niya sa ibabaw nito ang panggatong at inihiga si Isaac, matapos gapusin. Nang sasaksakin na niya ang bata, tinawag siya ng anghel ng Panginoon at mula sa langit ay sinabi: “Abraham! Abraham! Huwag mong patayin ang bata. Huwag mo siyang saktan! Naipakita mo nang handa kang sumunod sa Diyos, sapagkat hindi mo ipinagkait sa kanya ang kaisa-isa at pinakamamahal mong anak.”

 

Paglingon niya’y may nakita siyang isang lalaking tupa na ang mga sungay ay napasabit sa mga sanga ng kahoy. Ito ang kinuha ni Abraham at inihandog kapalit ng kanyang anak.

 

Mula sa langit, nagsalitang muli kay Abraham ang anghel ng Panginoon. Wika nito, “Akong Panginoon ang nangangako sa iyo: yamang hindi mo ipinagkait sa akin ang kaisa-isa mong anak, pagpapalain kita. Ang lahi mo’y magiging sindami ng bituin sa langit at ng buhangin ng dagat. Lulupigin nila ang mga lungsod ng kanilang mga kaaway. Sa pamamagitan ng iyong lahi, pagpapalain ang lahat ng bansa sa daigdig sapagkat ikaw ay tumalima sa akin.”

 

Ikatlong Pagbasa Exodo 14, 15 - 15, 1

Noong mga araw na iyon: Sinabi ng Panginoon kay Moises, “Bakit mo ako tinatawag? Palakarin mo ang mga Israelita. Itapat mo sa ibabaw ng dagat ang iyong tungkod; mahahati ang tubig at matutuyo ang lalakaran ninyo. Lalo kong pagmamatigasin ang mga Egipcio at pasusundan ko kayo sa kanila, ngunit doon ko sila lilipulin: ang mga Egipcio, ang mga kawal ng Faraon, pati ang kanilang mga karwahe. Ipakikita ko sa kanila ang aking kapangyarihan. Sa gayon, malalaman ng mga Egipciong iyan na ako ang Panginoon.”

 

Ang anghel ng Diyos ng pumapatnubay sa paglalakbay ng mga Israelita ay nagpatihuli sa kanila, gayon din ang haliging ulap. Ang ulap ay lumagay sa pagitan ng mga Israelita at ng mga Egipcio at lumatag ang kadiliman. Dumating ang gabi at ang mga Egipcio ay di makalapit sa mga Israelita.

 

Itinapat ni Moises ang kanyang tungkod sa ibabaw ng dagat. Magdamag na pinaihip ng Panginoon ang isang malakas na hangin mula sa silangan at nahati ang tubig. Ang mga Israelita’y bumagtas sa dagat na ang nilakara’y tuyong lupa, sa pagitan ng animo’y pader na tubig. Hinabol sila ng mga Egipcio, ng mga kawal, karwahe at kabayuhan ng Faraon. Nang magbubukang-liwayway na, ang mga Egipcio’y ginulo ng Panginoon mula sa haliging apoy at ulap. Nalubog ang gulong ng mga karwahe at hindi na sila makatugis nang matulin. Kaya sinabi nila, “Umalis na tayo rito sapagkat ang Panginoon na ang kalaban natin.”

 

Sinabi ng Panginoon kay Moises, “Itapat mo ang iyong tungkod sa ibabaw ng dagat at tatabunan ng tubig ang mga Egipcio pati ng kanilang karwahe.” Ganoon nga ang ginawa ni Moises, at pagbubukang-liwayway, nanumbalik sa dati ang dagat. Ang mga Egipcio’y nagsikap makatakas ngunit pinalakas ng Panginoon ang dating ng tubig kaya’t sila’y nalunod na lahat. Nang manauli ang dagat, natabunan ang mga karwahe’t kabayo ng Faraon, pati ng kanyang mga kawal at walang natira isa man. Ngunit ang mga Israelita’y nakatawid sa dagat, na tuyo ang dinaanan, sa pagitan ng animo’y pader na tubig.

 

Nang araw na yaon ang mga Israelita’y iniligtas ng Panginoon sa mga Egipcio; nakita nila ang bangkay ng mga Egipcio, nagkalat sa baybay-dagat. Dahil sa kapangyarihang ipinakita ng Panginoon laban sa mga taga-Egipcio, nagkaroon sila ng takot sa kanya at sumampalataya sila sa kanya at sa alagad niyang si Moises.

 

Ito ang inawit ni Moises at ng mga Israelita para sa Panginoon.

 

“Ang Panginoo’y atin ngayong awitan

 

Sa kanyang kinamtang Dakilang tagumpay;

 

Ang mga kabayo’t kawal ng kaaway

 

Sa pusod ng dagat, lahat natabunan.”

 

Ikaapat na Pagbasa Isaias 54, 5-14

Ang iyong naging kasintaha’y

 

ang may likha sa iyon,

 

Siya ang Makapangyarihang Panginoon;

 

ililigtas ka ng Diyos ng Israel,

 

Siya ang hari ng lahat ng bansa.

 

Israel, ang katulad mo ay babaing bagong kasal,

 

iniwan ng asawa, batbat ng kalungkutan.

 

Ngunit tinawag kang muli ng Panginoon

 

sa kanyang piling at sinabi:

 

“Sandaling panahong kita’y iniwanan

 

ngunit dahil sa tapat kong pag-ibig,

 

muli kitang kukupkupin.

 

Sa tindi ng galit nilisan kita sandali,

 

ngunit habang panahon kong ipadarama sa iyo ang tapat kong pagmamahal.”

 

Iyan ang sabi ng Panginoon na nagligtas sa iyo.

 

“Nang panahon ni Noe,

 

Ako ay sumumpang di na mauulit

 

na ang mundong ito’y gunawin sa tubig.

 

Gayon din sa ngayon,

 

iiwasan ko nang sa iyo’y magalit

 

at hindi na kita parurusahan uli.

 

Maguguho ang mga bundok at ang mga burol,

 

ngunit habang pag-ibig ko’y hindi maglalaho,

 

at mananatili ang kapayapaang aking pangako.”

 

Iyan ang sinasabi ng Diyos na Panginoon,

 

na nagmamahal sa iyo.

 

Sinabi ng Panginoon, “O Jerusalem, nagdurusang lungsod

 

na walang umaliw sa kapighatian,

 

muling itatayo ang mga pundasyon mo,

 

ang gagamitin ko’y mamahaling bato.

 

Gagamiti’y rubi sa mga tore mo,

 

batong maningning ang iyong pintuan,

 

at sa mga pader ay mga hiyas na makinang.

 

Ako ang magtuturo sa iyong mga anak.

 

Sila’y magiging payapa at buhay ay uunlad.

 

Patatatagin ka ng katarungan at katuwian,

 

magiging malayo sa mananakop at sa takot.”

 

Ikalimang Pagbasa Isaias 55, 1-11

Sinabi ng Panginoon, “Narito ang tubig, mga nauuhaw.

 

Ang mga walang salapi ay

 

kumuha rito at bumili ng pagkain.

 

Halikayo at bumili ng alak at gatas,

 

bumili kayo, ngunit walang bayad.

 

Bakit ginugugol ang salapi

 

sa mga bagay na hindi nakabubusog?

 

Bakit inuubos ang pera

 

sa mga bagay na walang halaga?

 

Makinig kayo sa akin at sundin ang utos ko

 

at matitikman ninyo ang pinakamasarap na pagkain.

 

Pumarito kayo,

 

kayo ay lumapit at ako’y pakinggan,

 

makinig sa akin nang kayo’y mabuhay;

 

ako’y may gagawing walang hanggang tipan,

 

at ipalalasap sa inyo ang pagpapalang

 

ipinangako ko kay David.

 

Ginawa ko siyang hari

 

at puno ng mga bansa

 

at sa pamamagitan niya’y ipinamalas ang aking kapangyarihan.

 

Iyong tatawagin ang mga bansang hindi mo kilala,

 

mga bansang di ka kilala’y sa iyo pupunta,

 

dahilan sa Panginoon,

 

Banal ng Israel,

 

ang Diyos na nagpala’t sa iyo’y dumakila.”

 

Hanapin ang Panginoon

 

samantalang siya’y iyong makikita,

 

Siya ay tawagin habang malapit pa.

 

Ang mga gawain ng taong masama’y

 

dapat nang talikdan, at ang mga liko’y

 

dapat magbago na ng maling isipan;

 

sila’y manumbalik,

 

lumapit sa Panginoon upang kahabagan,

 

at mula sa Diyos,

 

matatamo nila ang kapatawaran,

 

ang wika ng Panginoon:

 

“Ang aking isipa’y di ninyo isipan,

 

at magkaiba ang ating daan.

 

Kung paanong ang langit

 

higit na mataas, mataas sa lupa,

 

ang daa’t isip ko’y

 

hindi maaabot ng inyong akala.

 

Ang ulan at niyebe

 

paglagpak sa lupa’y di na nagbabalik,

 

aagos na ito sa balat ng lupa’t nagiging pandilig,

 

kaya may pagkai’t butil na panghasik.

 

Ganyan din ang aking mga salita,

 

magaganap nito ang lahat kong nasa.”

 

Ika-anim na Pagbasa Baruc 3, 9-15. 32 - 4, 4

Dinggin mo, Israel, ang mga kautusang nagbibigay-buhay; makinig ka at nang ikaw ay matuto. Israel, bakit ka nasa lupain ng iyong mga kaaway? Bakit ka tumanda sa ibang lupain? Bakit itinakwil kang parang patay at ibinilang na sa mga patay? Ang dahilan ay sapagkat itinakwil mo ang bukal ng Karunungan. Kung lumakad ka lang sa landas ng Diyos, sana’y namumuhay kang matiwasay sa habang panahon. Hanapin mo ang bukal ng pang-unawa, lakat at kaalaman, at malalaman mo kung nasaan ang mahabang buhay, ang liwanag na sa iyo’y papatnubay, at ang kapayapaan.

 

May nakatuklas na ba kung saan nakatira ang Karunungan, o nakapasok sa kanyang taguan ng yaman?

 

Ang Diyos na naakaalam ng lahat ng bagay ang tanging nakakikilala sa Karunungan. Natatarok din niya ito sa pamamagitan ng kanyang kaalaman. Siya ang lumikha at naglagay dito ng lahat ng uri ng mga hayop. Nag-utos siya at lumitaw ang liwanag; nanginginig ito sa takot kapag siya’y tumatawag. Tinawag din niya ang mga tala at madali silang nagsitugon: “Narito po kami.” Lumagay sila sa kani-kanilang lugar at masayang nagniningning para bigyang lugod ang lumikha sa kanila. Ito ang ating Diyos! Walang makapapantay sa kanya. Alam niya ang daan ng Karunungan, at ito’y ipinagkaloob niya sa lingkod niyang si Jacob, kay Israel na kanyang minamahal. Mula noon, nakita na sa daigdigang Karunungan, at nanatili sa sangkatauhan.

 

Ang Karunungan ang siyang aklat ng mga utos ng Diyos, ang batas na mananatili magpakailanman. Ang manghawak dito’y mabubuhay, at ang tumalikod ay mamamatay. O bayang Israel, tanggapin ninyo ang Karunungan at lumakad kayo sa kanyang liwanag. Huwag ninyong ibigay sa ibang lahi ang inyong karangalan at mga karapatan. Mapalad tayo, mga Israelita, pagkat alam natin kung ano ang nakasisiya sa Diyos.

 

Ikapitong Pagbasa Ezekiel 36, 16-17a. 18-28

Sinabi sa akin ng Panginoon, “Tao, nang ang Israel ay unang tumira sa kanilang lupain, pinarumi nila ito sa kanilang kasamaan. At dahil sa dugong pinadanak nila sa lupain, at dahil sa kanilang mga diyus-diyusan, ibinuhos ko sa kanila ang aking matinding poot. Itinapon ko sila at ikinalat sa iba’t ibang panig ng daigdig. Ginawa ko sa kanila ang nararapat sa kanila. Ngunit sa mga lugar na kinatapunan nila, binigyang-daan nila ang mga tao upang hamakin ang aking pangalan. Sinabi ng mga tao sa kanila, ‘Hindi ba sila’y mga mamamayan ng Panginoon, bakit pinaalis sa kanilang bayan?’ Nabahala ako dahil sa banal kong pangalan na ipinahamak ng mga Israelita sa mga dakong kinapuntahan nila.

 

“Kaya sabihin mo sa Israel na ito ang ipinasasabi ko: Lahat ng ginagawa ko ay hindi dahil sa inyo, mga Israelita, kundi sa banal kong pangalan na inyong binigyan-daang hamakin sa mga lugar na pinagtapunan ko sa inyo. Ipakikita ko ang kabanalan ng dakila kong pangalan na nalapastangan sa harap ng mga bansa. Makikilala ng lahat na ako ang Panginoon kung maipakita ko na sa kanila ang aking kabanalan. Titipunin ko kayo mula sa iba’t ibang bansa upang ibalik sa inyong bayan. Wiwisikan ko kayo ng tubig na dalisay upang kayo’y luminis. Aalisin ko rin ang naging mantsa ninyo dahil sa inyong mga diyus-diyusan. Bibigyan ko kayo ng bagong puso at bagong espiritu. Ang masuwayin ninyong puso ay gagawin kong masunurin. Bibigyan ko kayo ng aking Espiritu upang makalakad kayo ayon sa aking mga tuntunin at masunod ninyong mabuti ang aking mga utos. Ititira ko kayo sa lupaing ibinibigay ko sa inyong mga ninuno. Kayo ay magiging bayan ko at ako ang inyong Diyos.”

 

Sulat Roma 6, 3-11

Mga kapatid:

 

Hindi ba ninyo nalalaman na tayong lahat na nabinyagan kay Kristo Hesus ay nabinyagan sa kanyang kamatayan? Samaktwid, tayo’y namatay at nalibing na kasama niya sa pamamagitan ng binyag upang kung paanong binuhay na muli si Kristo sa pamamagitan ng dakilang kapangyarihan ng Ama, tayo nama’y mabuhay sa isang bagong pamumuhay.

 

Sapagkat kung nakaisa tayo ni Kristo sa isang kamatayang tulad ng kanyang kamatayan tulad ng kanyang kamatayan, tiyak na makakaisa niya tayo sa isang muling pagkabuhay tulad ng kayang pagkabuhay. Alam natin na ang dati nating pagkatao ay ipinakong kasama niya upang mamatay ang makasalanang katawan at nang hindi na tayo maalipin pa ng kasalanan. Sapagkat ang namatay na ay pinalaya mula sa kapangyarihan ng kasalanan. Ngunit tayo’y naniniwalang mabubuhay tayong kasama ni Kristo kung namatay tayong kasama niya. Alam nating si Kristo na muling binuhay ay hindi na muling mamamatay. Wala nang kapangyarihan sa kanya ang kamatayan. Nang siya’y mamatay, namatay siya nang minsanan para sa kasalanan, at ang buhay niya ngayo’y para sa Diyos. Kaya dapat ninyong ibilang ang inyong sarili na patay na sa kasalanan datapwa’t buhay naman para sa Diyos sa inyong pakikipag-isa kay Kristo Hesus.

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 28, 1-10

Makaraan ang Araw ng Pamamahinga, pagbubukang liwayway ng unang araw ng sanlinggo, pumunta sa lubingan ni Hesus si maria Magdalena at ang isa pang Maria. Biglang lumindol nang malakas. Bumaba mula sa langit ang isang anghel ng Panginoon, iginulong ang batong nakatakip sa libingan, at naupo sa ibabaw niyon. Ang kanyang mukha ay nakasisilaw na parang kidlat at kasimputi ng busilak ang kanyang damit. Nanginig sa takot ang mga bantay at nabulagtang animo’y patay nang makita ang anghel.

 

Ngunit sinabi nito sa mga babae, “Huwag kayong matakot; alam kong hinahanap ninyo si Hesus na ipinako sa krus. Wala na siya rito, sapagkat siya’y muling nabuhay tulad ng kanyang sinabi. Halikayo, tingnan ninyo ang pinaglagyan sa kanya. Lumakad na kayo at ibalita sa kanyang mga alagad na siya’y muling nabuhay at mauuna sa Galilea. Makikita ninyo siya roon! Tandaan ninyo ang sinabi ko sa inyo.” At dali-dali silang umalis ng libingan. Pinagharian sila ng magkahalong takot at galak. At patakbong nagpunta sa mga alagad upang ibalita ang nangyari.

 

Ngunit sinalubong sila ni Hesus at binati. At lumapit sila, niyakap ang kanyang paa at sinamba siya. Sinabi sa kanila ni Hesus, “Huwag kayong matakot! Humayo kayo at sabihin sa mga kapatid ko na pumunta sila sa Galilea at makikita nila ako roon!”

 

 

APRIL 16, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 10:34A, 37-43

Peter proceeded to speak and said: "You know what has happened all over Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached, how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power. He went about doing good and healing all those oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. We are witnesses of all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree. This man God raised on the third day and granted that he be visible, not to all the people, but to us, the witnesses chosen by God in advance, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. He commissioned us to preach to the people and testify that he is the one appointed by God as judge of the living and the dead. To him all the prophets bear witness, that everyone who believes in him will receive forgiveness of sins through his name."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23

R. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.

 

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his mercy endures forever. Let the house of Israel say, "His mercy endures forever."

R. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.

 

"The right hand of the LORD has struck with power; the right hand of the LORD is exalted. I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD."

R. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.

 

The stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. By the LORD has this been done; it is wonderful in our eyes.

R. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.

 

Reading 2 COL 3:1-4

Brothers and sisters: If then you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Think of what is above, not of what is on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory.

 

Sequence — Victimae Paschali Laudes

Christians, to the Paschal Victim Offer your thankful praises! A Lamb the sheep redeems; Christ, who only is sinless, Reconciles sinners to the Father. Death and life have contended in that combat stupendous: The Prince of life, who died, reigns immortal. Speak, Mary, declaring What you saw, wayfaring. "The tomb of Christ, who is living, The glory of Jesus' resurrection; bright angels attesting, The shroud and napkin resting. Yes, Christ my hope is arisen; to Galilee he goes before you." Christ indeed from death is risen, our new life obtaining. Have mercy, victor King, ever reigning! Amen. Alleluia.

 

Alleluia CF. 1 COR 5:7B-8A

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Christ, our paschal lamb, has been sacrificed; let us feast with joy in the Lord.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 20:1-9

On the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning, while it was still dark, and saw the stone removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and told them, "They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we don't know where they put him." So Peter and the other disciple went out and came to the tomb. They both ran, but the other disciple ran faster than Peter and arrived at the tomb first; he bent down and saw the burial cloths there, but did not go in. When Simon Peter arrived after him, he went into the tomb and saw the burial cloths there, and the cloth that had covered his head, not with the burial cloths but rolled up in a separate place. Then the other disciple also went in, the one who had arrived at the tomb first, and he saw and believed. For they did not yet understand the Scripture that he had to rise from the dead.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 10, 34a. 37-43

Noong mga araw na iyon: Nagsalita si Pedro, “Alam ninyo ang nangyari sa buong Judea na nagsimula sa Galilea nang mangaral si Juan tungkol sa binyag. Ang sinasabi ko’y tungkol kay Hesus na taga-Nazaret. Ipinagkaloob sa kanya ng Diyos ang Espiritu Santo at ang kapangyarihan bilang katunayan na siya nga ang Hinirang. Sapagkat sumasakanya ang Diyos, saanman siya pumaroon ay gumagawa siya ng kabutihan at nagpapagaling sa lahat ng pinahihirapan ng diyablo. Saksi kami sa lahat ng ginawa niya sa lupain ng mga Judio at sa Jerusalem. Gayunman, siya’y ipinako nila sa krus. Ngunit muli siyang binuhay ng Diyos sa ikatlong araw. Napakita siya, hindi sa lahat ng tao kundi sa main lamang na noon pang una’y pinili na ng Diyos bilang mga saksi. Kami ang nakasama niyang kumain at uminom pagkatapos na siya’y muling mabuhay. Inatasan niya kaming mangaral sa mga tao at magpatotoo na siya ang itinalaga ng Diyos na maging Hukom ng mga buhay at mga patay. Siya ang tinutukoy ng mga propeta nang kanilang ipahayag na bawat mananalig sa

kanya ay tatanggap ng kapatawaran sa kanilang mga kasalanan, sa pamamagitan ng kanyang pangalan.”

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa Colosas 3, 1-4

Mga kapatid, binuhay kayong muli, kasama ni Kristo, kaya’t ang pagsumikatan ninyo ay ang mga bagay na nasa langit na kinaroroonan ni Kristo na nakaupo sa kanan ng Diyos. Isaisip ninyo ang mga bagay na panlangit, hindi ang mga bagay na panlupa, sapagkat namatay na kayo at ang tunay na buhay ninyo’y natatago sa Diyos, kasama ni Kristo. Si Kristo ang tunay na buhay ninyo, at pag siya’y nahayag, mahahayag din kayong kasama niya at makakahati sa kanyang karangalan.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 20, 1-9

Madilim-dilim pa nang araw ng Linggo, naparoon na si Maria Magdalena sa libingan. Naratnan niyang naalis na ang batong panakip sa pinto ng libingan. Dahil dito, patakbo siyang pumunta kay Simon Pedro at sa alagad na mahal ni Hesus, at sinabi sa kanila, “Kinuha sa libingan ang Panginoon at hindi namin alam kung saan dinala!” Kaya’t si Pedro at ang nasabing alagad ay nagpunta sa libingan. Kapwa sila tumakbo ngunit si Pedro’y naunahan ng kasamang alagad. Yumuko ito at sumilip sa loob. Nakita niyang nakalagay ang mga kayong lino, ngunit hindi siya pumasok. Kasunod niyang dumating si Simon Pedro at tuloy-tuloy itong pumasok sa libingan. Nakita niya ang mga kayong lino, at ang panyong ibinalot sa ulo. Hindi ito kasama ng mga kayong lino, kundi hiwalay na nakatiklop sa isang tabi. Pumasok din ang alagad na naunang dumating; nakita niya ito at siya’y naniwala. Hindi pa nila nauunawaan ang nasasaad sa Kasulatan, na kailangang muling mabuhay si Hesus.

 

 

 

APRIL 17, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 2:14, 22-33

On the day of Pentecost, Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice, and proclaimed: "You who are Jews, indeed all of you staying in Jerusalem. Let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

 

"You who are children of Israel, hear these words. Jesus the Nazorean was a man commended to you by God with mighty deeds, wonders, and signs, which God worked through him in your midst, as you yourselves know. This man, delivered up by the set plan and foreknowledge of God, you killed, using lawless men to crucify him. But God raised him up, releasing him from the throes of death, because it was impossible for him to be held by it. For David says of him:

 

I saw the Lord ever before me, with him at my right hand I shall not be disturbed. Therefore my heart has been glad and my tongue has exulted; my flesh, too, will dwell in hope, because you will not abandon my soul to the nether world, nor will you suffer your holy one to see corruption. You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.

 

My brothers, one can confidently say to you about the patriarch David that he died and was buried, and his tomb is in our midst to this day. But since he was a prophet and knew that God had sworn an oath to him that he would set one of his descendants upon his throne, he foresaw and spoke of the resurrection of the Christ, that neither was he abandoned to the netherworld nor did his flesh see corruption. God raised this Jesus; of this we are all witnesses. Exalted at the right hand of God, he poured forth the promise of the Holy Spirit that he received from the Father, as you both see and hear."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 16:1-2A AND 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11

R. Keep me safe, O God; you are my hope.

 

Keep me, O God, for in you I take refuge; I say to the LORD, "My Lord are you." O LORD, my allotted portion and my cup, you it is who hold fast my lot.

R. Keep me safe, O God; you are my hope.

 

I bless the LORD who counsels me; even in the night my heart exhorts me. I set the LORD ever before me; with him at my right hand I shall not be disturbed.

R. Keep me safe, O God; you are my hope.

 

Therefore my heart is glad and my soul rejoices, my body, too, abides in confidence; Because you will not abandon my soul to the nether world, nor will you suffer your faithful one to undergo corruption.

R. Keep me safe, O God; you are my hope.

 

You will show me the path to life, fullness of joys in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever.

R. Keep me safe, O God; you are my hope.

 

Alleluia PS 118:24

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

This is the day the LORD has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MT 28:8-15

Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went away quickly from the tomb, fearful yet overjoyed, and ran to announce the news to his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them on their way and greeted them. They approached, embraced his feet, and did him homage. Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me."

 

While they were going, some of the guard went into the city and told the chief priests all that had happened. The chief priests assembled with the elders and took counsel; then they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers, telling them, "You are to say, 'His disciples came by night and stole him while we were asleep.' And if this gets to the ears of the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble." The soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has circulated among the Jews to the present day.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 2, 14. 22-33

Noong araw ng Pentekostes, tumayo si Pedro at ang labing-isang apostol, at nagsalita nang malakas, “Mga kababayan, at mga naninirahan sa Jerusalem: pakinggan ninyong mabuti ang aking sasabihin.

 

“Mga Israelita, pakinggan ninyo ito! Si Hesus na taga-Nazaret ay sinugo ng Diyos. Pinatutunayan ito ng mga himala, mga kababalaghan, at mga tandang ginawa ng Diyos sa pamamagitan niya. Alam ninyo ito sapagkat lahat ay naganap sa gitna ninyo. Ngunit ang taong ito na ibinigay sa inyo ayon sa pasiya at pagkaalam ng Diyos sa mula’t mula pa, ay ipinapako ninyo at ipinapatay sa mga makasalanan. Subalit siya’y muling binuhay ng Diyos at pinalaya sa kapangyarihan ng kamatayan. Hindi ito maaaring mamayani sa kanya, gaya ng sinabi ni David:

 

‘Nakita ko na laging nasa tabi ko ang Panginoon,

 

Siya’y kasama ko kaya’t hindi ako matitigatig.

 

Dahil dito, nagalak ang puso ko at umawit sa tuwa ang aking dila,

 

At ang katawan ko’y nahihimlay na may pag-asa.

 

Sapagkat ang kaluluwa ko’y di mo pababayaan sa daigdig ng mga patay,

 

At hindi mo itutulot na mabulok ang iyong Banal.

 

Ituro mo sa akin ang mga landasing patungo sa buhay,

 

Dahil sa ikaw ang kasama ko, ako’y mapupuspos ng kagalakan.’

 

“Mga kapatid, masasabi ko sa inyo nang tiyakan na ang patriyarkang si David ay namatay at inilibing; naririto ang kanyang libingan hanggang ngayon. Siya’y propeta at nalalaman niya ang pangako sa kanya ng Diyos: na magiging haring tulad niya ang isa sa kanyang sabihin:

 

‘Hindi siya pinabayaan sa daigdig ng mga patay;

 

At hindi itinulot na mabulok ang kanyang katawan.’

 

Itong si Hesus ay muling binuhay ng Diyos, at saksi kaming lahat sa bagay na ito. Nang itaas siya sa kanan ng Diyos, tinanggap niya sa kanyang Ama ang ipinangakong Espiritu Santo at ito’y kanyang ipinagkaloob sa amin, tulad ng inyong nakikita at naririnig ngayon.”

 

Mabuting Balita Mateo 28, 8-15

Noong panahong iyon, dali-daling umalis ang mga babae ng libingan. Pinagharian sila ng magkahalong takot at galak. At patakbong nagpunta sa mga alagad upang ibalita ang nangyari.

 

Ngunit sinalubong sila ni Hesus at binati. At lumapit sila, niyakap ang kanyang paa at sinamba siya. Sinabi sa kanila ni Hesus, “Huwag kayong matakot! Humayo kayo at sabihin sa mga kapatid ko na pumunta sila sa Galilea, at makikita nila ako roon!”

 

Pagkaalis ng mga babae, pumunta naman sa lungsod ang ilan sa mga kawal na nagbabantay sa libingan at ibinalita sa mga punong saserdote ang lahat ng nangyari. Nagtipun-tipon ang mga ito at matapos makipagpulong sa matatanda ng bayan, sinuhulan nang malaki ang mga kawal. At inutusan sila na ganito ang ipinamalita, “Samatalang natutulog kami kagabi, naparito ang kanyang mga alagad at ninakaw ang kanyang bangkay.” Sinabi pa nila, “Huwag kayong mag-alaala, makarating man ito sa gobernador. Kami ang bahala!” Tinanggap ng mga bantay ang salapi at ginawa ang bilin sa kanila. Hanggang ngayon, ito pa rin ang sabi-sabi ng mga Judio.

 

 

APRIL 18, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 2:36-41

On the day of Pentecost, Peter said to the Jewish people, "Let the whole house of Israel know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified."

 

Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and they asked Peter and the other Apostles, "What are we to do, my brothers?" Peter said to them, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is made to you and to your children and to all those far off, whomever the Lord our God will call." He testified with many other arguments, and was exhorting them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand persons were added that day.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 33:4-5, 18-19, 20 AND 22

R. The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.

 

Upright is the word of the LORD, and all his works are trustworthy. He loves justice and right; of the kindness of the LORD the earth is full.

R. The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.

 

See, the eyes of the LORD are upon those who fear him, upon those who hope for his kindness, To deliver them from death and preserve them in spite of famine.

R. The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.

 

Our soul waits for the LORD, who is our help and our shield. May your kindness, O LORD, be upon us who have put our hope in you.

R. The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.

 

Alleluia PS 118:24

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

This is the day the LORD has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 20:11-18

Mary Magdalene stayed outside the tomb weeping. And as she wept, she bent over into the tomb and saw two angels in white sitting there, one at the head and one at the feet where the Body of Jesus had been. And they said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping?" She said to them, "They have taken my Lord, and I don't know where they laid him." When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus there, but did not know it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?" She thought it was the gardener and said to him, "Sir, if you carried him away, tell me where you laid him, and I will take him." Jesus said to her, "Mary!" She turned and said to him in Hebrew, "Rabbouni," which means Teacher. Jesus said to her, "Stop holding on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and tell them, 'I am going to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'" Mary went and announced to the disciples, "I have seen the Lord," and then reported what he had told her.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 2, 36-41

“Kaya't dapat malaman ng buong Israel na itong si Jesus na ipinako ninyo sa krus ay siyang ginawa ng Diyos na Panginoon at Cristo!”

 

Nabagabag ang kanilang kalooban nang marinig ito, kaya't tinanong nila si Pedro at ang ibang mga apostol, “Mga kapatid, ano ang dapat naming gawin?”

 

Sumagot si Pedro, “Pagsisihan ninyo't talikuran ang inyong mga kasalanan at magpabautismo kayo sa pangalan ni Jesu-Cristo upang kayo'y patawarin; at tatanggapin ninyo ang kaloob ng Espiritu Santo. Sapagkat ang pangako ay para sa inyo at sa inyong mga anak, at sa lahat ng nasa malayo, sa bawat taong tatawagin ng ating Panginoong Diyos.”

 

Marami pang inilahad si Pedro upang patunayan ang kanyang sinabi, at nanawagan siya sa kanila, “Iligtas ninyo ang inyong mga sarili mula sa parusang sasapitin ng masamang lahing ito.”

 

Kaya't ang mga naniwala sa ipinangaral niya ay nagpabautismo, at nadagdagan ang mga alagad ng may tatlong libong katao nang araw na iyon.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 20, 11-18

Si Maria ay nakatayong umiiyak sa labas ng libingan. Habang umiiyak ay yumuko siya at sumilip sa loob. May nakita siyang dalawang anghel na nakadamit ng puti at nakaupo sa pinaglagyan ng bangkay ni Jesus, ang isa'y sa gawing ulunan at ang isa nama'y sa paanan. Tinanong nila si Maria, “Babae, bakit ka umiiyak?”

 

Sumagot siya, “Kinuha nila ang aking Panginoon at hindi ko alam kung saan siya inilagay.”

 

Pagkasabi nito'y napalingon siya at nakita niya si Jesus na nakatayo roon, ngunit hindi niya nakilalang si Jesus iyon.

 

Tinanong siya ni Jesus, “Babae, bakit ka umiiyak? Sino ang hinahanap mo?”

 

Akala ni Maria, ang kausap niya'y ang hardinero kaya't sinabi niya, “Ginoo, kung kayo po ang kumuha sa kanya, pakituro nga po ninyo sa akin kung saan ninyo siya inilagay at kukunin ko.”

 

“Maria!” sabi ni Jesus.

 

Humarap siya at kanyang sinabi sa wikang Hebreo, “Raboni!” na ang ibig sabihi'y “Guro.”

 

Sabi ni Jesus, “Huwag mo akong hawakan sapagkat hindi pa ako nakakapunta sa Ama. Sa halip, pumunta ka sa aking mga kapatid at sabihin mo sa kanila na aakyat ako sa aking Ama at inyong Ama, sa aking Diyos at inyong Diyos.”

 

Kaya't si Maria Magdalena ay pumunta sa mga alagad at ibinalita sa kanila, “Nakita ko ang Panginoon!” At sinabi rin niya sa kanila ang mga sinabi sa kanya ni Jesus.

 

 

APRIL 19, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 3:1-10

Peter and John were going up to the temple area for the three o'clock hour of prayer. And a man crippled from birth was carried and placed at the gate of the temple called "the Beautiful Gate" every day to beg for alms from the people who entered the temple. When he saw Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked for alms. But Peter looked intently at him, as did John, and said, "Look at us." He paid attention to them, expecting to receive something from them. Peter said, "I have neither silver nor gold, but what I do have I give you: in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean, rise and walk." Then Peter took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles grew strong. He leaped up, stood, and walked around, and went into the temple with them, walking and jumping and praising God. When all the people saw him walking and praising God, they recognized him as the one who used to sit begging at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, and they were filled with amazement and astonishment at what had happened to him.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 105:1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8-9

R. Rejoice, O hearts that seek the Lord.

 

Give thanks to the LORD, invoke his name; make known among the nations his deeds. Sing to him, sing his praise, proclaim all his wondrous deeds.

R. Rejoice, O hearts that seek the Lord.

 

Glory in his holy name; rejoice, O hearts that seek the LORD! Look to the LORD in his strength; seek to serve him constantly.

R. Rejoice, O hearts that seek the Lord.

 

You descendants of Abraham, his servants, sons of Jacob, his chosen ones! He, the LORD, is our God; throughout the earth his judgments prevail.

R. Rejoice, O hearts that seek the Lord.

 

He remembers forever his covenant which he made binding for a thousand generations Which he entered into with Abraham and by his oath to Isaac.

R. Rejoice, O hearts that seek the Lord.

 

Alleluia PS 118:24

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

This is the day the LORD has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel LK 24:13-35

That very day, the first day of the week, two of Jesus' disciples were going to a village seven miles from Jerusalem called Emmaus, and they were conversing about all the things that had occurred. And it happened that while they were conversing and debating, Jesus himself drew near and walked with them, but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him. He asked them, "What are you discussing as you walk along?" They stopped, looking downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, said to him in reply, "Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know of the things that have taken place there in these days?" And he replied to them, "What sort of things?" They said to him, "The things that happened to Jesus the Nazarene, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, how our chief priests and rulers both handed him over to a sentence of death and crucified him. But we were hoping that he would be the one to redeem Israel; and besides all this, it is now the third day since this took place. Some women from our group, however, have astounded us: they were at the tomb early in the morning and did not find his Body; they came back and reported that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who announced that he was alive. Then some of those with us went to the tomb and found things just as the women had described, but him they did not see." And he said to them, "Oh, how foolish you are! How slow of heart to believe all that the prophets spoke! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?" Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them what referred to him in all the Scriptures. As they approached the village to which they were going, he gave the impression that he was going on farther. But they urged him, "Stay with us, for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over." So he went in to stay with them. And it happened that, while he was with them at table, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them. With that their eyes were opened and they recognized him, but he vanished from their sight. Then they said to each other, "Were not our hearts burning within us while he spoke to us on the way and opened the Scriptures to us?" So they set out at once and returned to Jerusalem where they found gathered together the Eleven and those with them who were saying, "The Lord has truly been raised and has appeared to Simon!" Then the two recounted what had taken place on the way and how he was made known to them in the breaking of the bread.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 3, 1-10

Minsan, nagpunta sina Pedro at Juan sa Templo; alas tres ng hapon noon, ang oras ng pananalangin. Sa pintuan ng Templo na tinatawag na Pintuang Maganda ay may isang lalaking lumpo mula pa nang ito'y isilang. Dinadala ito sa Templo araw-araw upang mamalimos sa mga taong pumapasok doon. Nang makita nito sina Pedro at Juan na papasók sa Templo, siya'y humingi ng limos. Tinitigan siya ng dalawa, at sinabi ni Pedro sa kanya, “Tingnan mo kami!” Tumingin nga siya sa kanila sa pag-asang siya'y lilimusan. Ngunit sinabi ni Pedro, “Wala akong pilak o ginto, ngunit kung ano ang mayroon ako ay siya kong ibibigay sa iyo. Sa pangalan ni Jesu-Cristong taga-Nazaret, tumayo ka at lumakad.” Hinawakan niya sa kanang kamay ang lumpo at itinayo. Noon di'y lumakas ang mga paa at bukung-bukong ng lalaki; palukso itong tumayo at nagsimulang lumakad. Pumasok siya sa Templo kasama nila, naglalakad, lumulundag at nagpupuri sa Diyos. Nakita ng lahat na siya'y naglalakad at nagpupuri sa Diyos. Nang makilala nilang siya ang pulubing dati'y

nakaupong namamalimos sa Pintuang Maganda ng Templo, namangha sila at nagtaka sa nangyari sa kanya.

 

Mabuting Balita Lucas 24, 13-35

Nang araw ding iyon, may dalawang alagad na naglalakad papuntang Emaus, isang nayong may labing-isang kilometro[b] ang layo mula sa Jerusalem. Pinag-uusapan nila ang mga pangyayari. Habang sila'y nag-uusap, lumapit si Jesus at nakisabay sa kanila, ngunit siya'y hindi nila nakilala na para bang natatakpan ang kanilang mga mata. Tinanong sila ni Jesus, “Ano ba ang pinag-uusapan ninyo?”

 

Tumigil silang nalulumbay, at sinabi ng isa sa kanila na nagngangalang Cleopas, “Ikaw lamang yata ang dayuhan sa Jerusalem na hindi nakakaalam sa mga pangyayaring katatapos lamang maganap doon.”

 

“Anong mga pangyayari?” tanong niya.

 

Sumagot sila, “Tungkol kay Jesus na taga-Nazaret, isang propetang makapangyarihan sa salita at gawa maging sa harap ng Diyos at ng mga tao. Isinakdal siya ng aming mga punong pari at mga pinuno ng bayan upang mahatulang mamatay, at siya'y ipinako sa krus. Siya pa naman ang inaasahan naming magpapalaya sa Israel. Hindi lamang iyan. Ikatlong araw na ngayon mula nang mangyari ito. Nabigla kami sa ibinalita ng ilan sa mga babaing kasamahan namin. Maagang-maaga raw silang nagpunta sa libingan at hindi nila natagpuan ang kanyang bangkay. Nagbalik sila at ang sabi'y nakakita raw sila ng isang pangitain, mga anghel na nagsabing si Jesus ay buháy. Pumunta rin sa libingan ang ilan sa mga kasama namin at ganoon nga ang natagpuan nila, ngunit hindi nila nakita si Jesus.”

 

Sinabi sa kanila ni Jesus, “Kay hahangal ninyo! Kay kukupad ninyong maniwala sa lahat ng sinasabi ng mga propeta! .Hindi ba't kailangang ang Cristo ay magtiis ng lahat ng ito bago siya pumasok sa kanyang kaluwalhatian?” At ipinaliwanag sa kanila ni Jesus ang lahat ng sinasabi sa Kasulatan tungkol sa kanya, simula sa mga aklat ni Moises hanggang sa mga sinulat ng mga propeta.

 

Malapit na sila sa nayong kanilang pupuntahan at si Jesus ay parang magpapatuloy pa sa paglakad, ngunit siya'y pinigil nila. “Tumuloy ka muna rito sa amin. Palubog na ang araw at dumidilim na,” sabi nila. Kaya't sumama nga siya sa kanila. Nang siya'y kasalo na nila sa pagkain, dumampot siya ng tinapay at nagpasalamat sa Diyos; pagkatapos, pinagpira-piraso iyon at ibinigay sa kanila. Noon nabuksan ang kanilang mga mata at nakilala nila si Jesus, subalit siya'y biglang nawala sa kanilang paningin. Nasabi nila sa isa't isa, “Kaya pala nag-aalab ang ating puso habang tayo'y kinakausap niya sa daan at ipinapaliwanag sa atin ang mga Kasulatan!”

 

Agad silang tumayo at nagbalik sa Jerusalem. Naratnan nilang nagkakatipon doon ang labing-isa at ang ibang kasamahan nila. Sinabi ng mga ito sa dalawa, “Totoo nga palang muling nabuhay ang Panginoon! Nagpakita siya kay Simon!” At isinalaysay naman ng dalawa ang nangyari sa daan at kung paano nila nakilala si Jesus nang paghati-hatiin nito ang tinapay.

 

 

APRIL 20, 2017

Reading 1 ACTS 3:11-26

As the crippled man who had been cured clung to Peter and John, all the people hurried in amazement toward them in the portico called "Solomon's Portico." When Peter saw this, he addressed the people, "You children of Israel, why are you amazed at this, and why do you look so intently at us as if we had made him walk by our own power or piety? The God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus whom you handed over and denied in Pilate's presence, when he had decided to release him. You denied the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you. The author of life you put to death, but God raised him from the dead; of this we are witnesses. And by faith in his name, this man, whom you see and know, his name has made strong, and the faith that comes through it has given him this perfect health, in the presence of all of you. Now I know, brothers and sisters, that you acted out of ignorance, just as your leaders did; but God has thus brought to fulfillment what he had announced beforehand through the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ would suffer. Repent, therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be wiped away, and that the Lord may grant you times of refreshment and send you the Christ already appointed for you, Jesus, whom heaven must receive until the times of universal restoration of which God spoke through the mouth of his holy prophets from of old. For Moses said:

 

A prophet like me will the Lord, your God, raise up for you from among your own kin; to him you shall listen in all that he may say to you. Everyone who does not listen to that prophet will be cut off from the people.

 

"Moreover, all the prophets who spoke, from Samuel and those afterwards, also announced these days. You are the children of the prophets and of the covenant that God made with your ancestors when he said to Abraham, In your offspring all the families of the earth shall be blessed. For you first, God raised up his servant and sent him to bless you by turning each of you from your evil ways."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 8:2AB AND 5, 6-7, 8-9

R. O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!

 

O LORD, our Lord, how glorious is your name over all the earth! What is man that you should be mindful of him, or the son of man that you should care for him?

R. O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!

 

You have made him little less than the angels, and crowned him with glory and honor. You have given him rule over the works of your hands, putting all things under his feet.

R. O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!

 

All sheep and oxen, yes, and the beasts of the field, The birds of the air, the fishes of the sea, and whatever swims the paths of the seas.

R. O Lord, our God, how wonderful your name in all the earth!

 

Alleluia PS 118:24

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

This is the day the LORD has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel LK 24:35-48

The disciples of Jesus recounted what had taken place along the way, and how they had come to recognize him in the breaking of bread.

 

While they were still speaking about this, he stood in their midst and said to them, "Peace be with you." But they were startled and terrified and thought that they were seeing a ghost. Then he said to them, "Why are you troubled? And why do questions arise in your hearts? Look at my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me and see, because a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you can see I have." And as he said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. While they were still incredulous for joy and were amazed, he asked them, "Have you anything here to eat?" They gave him a piece of baked fish; he took it and ate it in front of them.

 

He said to them, "These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and in the prophets and psalms must be fulfilled." Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. And he said to them, "Thus it is written that the Christ would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day and that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things."

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 3, 11-26

Habang nakahawak siya kina Pedro at Juan sa lugar na tinatawag na Portiko ni Solomon, patakbong lumapit sa kanila ang mga taong takang-taka sa nangyari. Nangmakita ni Pedro ang mga tao, sinabi niya, “Mga Israelita, bakit kayo nagtataka sa nangyaring ito? Bakit ninyo kami tinititigan? Akala ba ninyo'y napalakad namin siya dahil sa sarili naming kapangyarihan o kabanalan? Niluwalhati ng Diyos ng ating mga ninunong sina Abraham, Isaac at Jacob ang kanyang Lingkod na si Jesus na isinakdal ninyo at itinakwil sa harap ni Pilato, gayong ipinasya na nito na palayain siya. Itinakwil ninyo ang Banal at Matuwid, at hiniling na palayain ang isang mamamatay-tao. Pinatay ninyo ang Pinagmumulan ng buhay, ngunit siya'y muling binuhay ng Diyos, at saksi kami sa pangyayaring ito. Ang kapangyarihan ng pangalan ni Jesus ang nagpagaling sa lalaking ito; nangyari ito dahil sa pananalig sa kanyang pangalan. Ang pananalig kay Jesus ang lubusang nagpagaling sa kanya, tulad ng inyong nakikita.

 

“Mga kapatid, alam kong hindi ninyo nauunawaan ang inyong ginawa, gayundin ng inyong mga pinuno. Sa ganitong paraan ay natupad ang matagal nang ipinahayag ng Diyos sa pamamagitan ng mga propeta na ang kanyang Cristo ay kailangang magdusa. Kaya nga, magsisi kayo at magbalik-loob sa Diyos upang patawarin ang inyong mga kasalanan, at nang sa gayon ay sumapit ang panahon ng pagpapanibagong lakas mula sa Panginoon. Susuguin niya si Jesus, ang Cristong hinirang mula pa noong una para sa inyo. Siya'y dapat munang manatili sa langit hanggang sa dumating ang pagbabago ng lahat ng bagay, ayon sa ipinahayag ng Diyos sa pamamagitan ng kanyang mga banal na propeta mula pa noong una. Sapagkat sinabi ni Moises, ‘Mula sa inyo, ang Panginoon ninyong Diyos ay pipili para sa inyo ng isang propetang katulad ko. Sundin ninyo ang lahat ng kanyang sasabihin sa inyo. Ang sinumang hindi sumunod sa propetang iyon ay ihihiwalay sa bayan ng Diyos at lilipulin.’ Ang lahat ng mga propeta, kasama si Samuel at ang mga kasunod niya, ay nagpa

hayag din tungkol sa panahong ito. Ang mga pangako ng Diyos sa pamamagitan ng mga propeta ay para sa inyo, at kasama kayo sa kasunduan na ginawa ng Diyos at ng inyong mga ninuno[b] nang kanyang sabihin kay Abraham, ‘Pagpapalain ko ang lahat ng angkan sa daigdig sa pamamagitan ng iyong lahi.’ Kaya't matapos buhayin ng Diyos ang kanyang Lingkod, sa inyo siya unang isinugo upang pagpalain kayo at tulungang tumalikod sa inyong masamang pamumuhay.”

 

Mabuting Balita Lucas 24, 35-48

At isinalaysay naman ng dalawa ang nangyari sa daan at kung paano nila nakilala si Jesus nang paghati-hatiin nito ang tinapay.

 

Habang pinag-uusapan nila ito, tumayo si Jesus sa kalagitnaan nila [at nagsabi, “Sumainyo ang kapayapaan!” Natigilan sila at natakot sapagkat ang akala nila'y nakakita sila ng multo. Kaya't sinabi ni Jesus, “Bakit kayo natitigilan? Bakit kayo nag-aalinlangan? Tingnan ninyo ang aking mga kamay at mga paa. Ako nga ito. Hawakan ninyo ako at pagmasdan. Ang multo ay walang laman at buto, ngunit ako'y mayroon, tulad ng nakikita ninyo.”

 

Habang sinasabi niya ito, ipinapakita niya sa kanila ang kanyang mga kamay at mga paa. Parang hindi pa rin sila makapaniwala sa laki ng galak at pagkamangha, kaya't tinanong sila ni Jesus, “May pagkain ba kayo riyan?” Siya'y binigyan nila ng isang hiwa ng isdang inihaw. Kinuha niya ito at kinain sa harap nila.

 

Pagkatapos ay sinabi niya sa kanila, “Ito ang tinutukoy ko nang sabihin ko sa inyo noong kasa-kasama pa ninyo ako: dapat matupad ang lahat ng nasusulat tungkol sa akin sa Kautusan ni Moises, sa aklat ng mga propeta, at sa aklat ng mga Awit.”

 

Binuksan niya ang kanilang pag-iisip upang maunawaan nila ang mga Kasulatan. Sinabi niya sa kanila, “Ganito ang nasusulat: kinakailangang magdusa at mamatay ang Cristo; at pagkatapos, siya'y muling mabubuhay sa ikatlong araw. Sa kanyang pangalan, ang pagsisisi at kapatawaran ng mga kasalanan ay dapat ipangaral sa lahat ng mga bansa, magmula sa Jerusalem. Kayo ang mga saksi sa mga bagay na ito.

 

 

APRIL 21, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 4:1-12

After the crippled man had been cured, while Peter and John were still speaking to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple guard, and the Sadducees confronted them, disturbed that they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. They laid hands on Peter and John and put them in custody until the next day, since it was already evening. But many of those who heard the word came to believe and the number of men grew to about five thousand.

 

On the next day, their leaders, elders, and scribes were assembled in Jerusalem, with Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and all who were of the high-priestly class. They brought them into their presence and questioned them, "By what power or by what name have you done this?" Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, answered them, "Leaders of the people and elders: If we are being examined today about a good deed done to a cripple, namely, by what means he was saved, then all of you and all the people of Israel should know that it was in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead; in his name this man stands before you healed. He is the stone rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. There is no salvation through anyone else, nor is there any other name under heaven given to the human race by which we are to be saved."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 118:1-2 AND 4, 22-24, 25-27A

R. The stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone.

 

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his mercy endures forever. Let the house of Israel say, "His mercy endures forever." Let those who fear the LORD say, "His mercy endures forever."

R. The stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone.

 

The stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. By the LORD has this been done; it is wonderful in our eyes. This is the day the LORD has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.

R. The stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone.

 

O LORD, grant salvation! O LORD, grant prosperity! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD; we bless you from the house of the LORD. The LORD is God, and he has given us light.

R. The stone rejected by the builders has become the cornerstone.

 

Alleluia PS 118:24

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

This is the day the LORD has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 21:1-14

Jesus revealed himself again to his disciples at the Sea of Tiberias. He revealed himself in this way. Together were Simon Peter, Thomas called Didymus, Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, Zebedee's sons, and two others of his disciples. Simon Peter said to them, "I am going fishing." They said to him, "We also will come with you." So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. When it was already dawn, Jesus was standing on the shore; but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, "Children, have you caught anything to eat?" They answered him, "No." So he said to them, "Cast the net over the right side of the boat and you will find something." So they cast it, and were not able to pull it in because of the number of fish. So the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord." When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he tucked in his garment, for he was lightly clad, and jumped into the sea. The other disciples came in the boat, for they were not far from shore, only about a hundred yards, dragging the net with the fish. When they climbed out on shore, they saw a charcoal fire with fish on it and bread. Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish you just caught." So Simon Peter went over and dragged the net ashore full of one hundred fifty-three large fish. Even though there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, "Come, have breakfast." And none of the disciples dared to ask him, "Who are you?" because they realized it was the Lord. Jesus came over and took the bread and gave it to them, and in like manner the fish. This was now the third time Jesus was revealed to his disciples after being raised from the dead.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 4, 1-12

Nagsasalita pa sina Pedro at Juan sa mga taong bayan nang dumating ang mga paring Judio, ang kapitan ng mga bantay sa Templo at ang mga Saduseo. Galit na galit sila sa dalawang apostol dahil itinuturo ng mga ito sa mga tao na si Jesus ay muling nabuhay, at iyon ang katibayan na muling mabubuhay ang mga patay. Kaya't dinakip nila ang dalawa, at ikinulong muna hanggang kinabukasan sapagkat gabi na noon. Gayunman, marami sa nakarinig ng kanilang pangangaral ang sumampalataya kay Jesus, kaya't umabot sa limanlibo ang bilang ng mga lalaki.

 

Kinabukasan, nagtipon sa Jerusalem ang mga pinuno ng mga Judio, ang mga matatandang namumuno sa bayan at ang mga tagapagturo ng Kautusan. Kasama nila si Anas, ang pinakapunong pari, si Caifas, si Juan, si Alejandro, at ang iba pang mga kamag-anak ng pinakapunong pari. Pinatayo nila sa harap ang mga apostol at tinanong, “Sa anong kapangyarihan o sa kaninong pangalan ninyo ginagawa ang bagay na ito?”

 

Sumagot si Pedro na puspos ng Espiritu Santo, “Mga tagapanguna at mga pinuno ng bayan, kung sinisiyasat ninyo kami ngayon tungkol sa kabutihang ginawa namin sa lumpong ito at kung paano siya gumaling, nais kong malaman ninyong lahat at ng buong Israel na ang taong ito ay nakatayo sa inyong harapan at lubusang gumaling dahil sa kapangyarihan ng pangalan ni Jesu-Cristo na taga-Nazaret, na inyong ipinako sa krus ngunit muling binuhay ng Diyos. Ang Jesus na ito

 

‘Ang batong itinakwil ninyong mga tagapagtayo ng bahay,

 

    ang siyang naging batong-panulukan.’

 

Sa kanya lamang matatagpuan ang kaligtasan, sapagkat walang ibang pangalan sa buong daigdig na ibinigay ng Diyos sa mga tao upang tayo ay maligtas.”

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 21, 1-14

Pagkatapos nito, muling nagpakita si Jesus sa mga alagad sa tabi ng Lawa ng Tiberias. Ganito ang nangyari: magkakasama sina Simon Pedro, Tomas na tinatawag na Kambal, Nathanael na taga-Cana sa Galilea, ang mga anak ni Zebedeo, at dalawa pang alagad. Sinabi sa kanila ni Simon Pedro, “Mangingisda ako.”

 

“Sasama kami,” sabi nila.

 

Umalis nga sila at sumakay sa isang bangka. Magdamag silang nangisda, subalit wala silang nahuli. Nang mag-uumaga na, tumayo si Jesus sa pampang ngunit siya'y hindi nila nakilala. Sinabi niya, “Mga anak, mayroon ba kayong huli?”

 

“Wala po,” sagot nila.

 

“Ihulog ninyo ang lambat sa gawing kanan ng bangka at makakahuli kayo,” sabi ni Jesus.

 

Inihulog nga nila ang lambat at nang hilahin nila ito ay hindi nila makaya sa dami ng huli. Sinabi kay Pedro ng alagad na minamahal ni Jesus, “Ang Panginoon iyon!”

 

Nang marinig ni Simon Pedro na ang Panginoon iyon, nagsuot siya ng damit dahil nakahubad siya noon at saka lumusong sa tubig. Dumating sa pampang ang kasama niyang mga alagad, sakay ng bangka at hila-hila ang lambat na puno ng isda. Hindi sila gaanong malayo sa pampang, mga siyamnapung metro lamang. Pagkaahon nila sa pampang, nakakita sila roon ng isdang iniihaw sa nagbabagang uling, at ilang tinapay. “Magdala kayo rito ng ilang isdang nahuli ninyo,” sabi ni Jesus. Kaya't sumampa sa bangka si Simon Pedro at hinila sa pampang ang lambat na puno ng malalaking isda; isandaan at limampu't tatlo lahat ang nahuli nila. Hindi nasira ang lambat, kahit ganoon karami ang mga isda. “Halikayo at mag-agahan kayo,” sabi ni Jesus. Isa man sa mga alagad ay hindi nangahas magtanong sa kanya kung sino siya sapagkat alam nila na siya ang Panginoon. Lumapit si Jesus, kinuha ang tinapay at ibinigay sa kanila. Ganoon din ang kanyang ginawa sa isda.

 

Ito ang ikatlong pagpapakita ni Jesus sa mga alagad pagkatapos na siya'y muling mabuhay.

 

 

APRIL 22, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 4:13-21

Observing the boldness of Peter and John and perceiving them to be uneducated, ordinary men, the leaders, elders, and scribes were amazed, and they recognized them as the companions of Jesus. Then when they saw the man who had been cured standing there with them, they could say nothing in reply. So they ordered them to leave the Sanhedrin, and conferred with one another, saying, "What are we to do with these men? Everyone living in Jerusalem knows that a remarkable sign was done through them, and we cannot deny it. But so that it may not be spread any further among the people, let us give them a stern warning never again to speak to anyone in this name."

 

So they called them back and ordered them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. Peter and John, however, said to them in reply, "Whether it is right in the sight of God for us to obey you rather than God, you be the judges. It is impossible for us not to speak about what we have seen and heard." After threatening them further, they released them, finding no way to punish them, on account of the people who were all praising God for what had happened.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 118:1 AND 14-15AB, 16-18, 19-21

R. I will give thanks to you, for you have answered me.

 

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his mercy endures forever. My strength and my courage is the LORD, and he has been my savior. The joyful shout of victory in the tents of the just.

R. I will give thanks to you, for you have answered me.

 

"The right hand of the LORD is exalted; the right hand of the LORD has struck with power." I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD. Though the LORD has indeed chastised me, yet he has not delivered me to death.

R. I will give thanks to you, for you have answered me.

 

Open to me the gates of justice; I will enter them and give thanks to the LORD. This is the gate of the LORD; the just shall enter it. I will give thanks to you, for you have answered me and have been my savior.

R. I will give thanks to you, for you have answered me.

 

Alleluia PS 118:24

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

This is the day the LORD has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 16:9-15

When Jesus had risen, early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons. She went and told his companions who were mourning and weeping. When they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they did not believe.

 

After this he appeared in another form to two of them walking along on their way to the country. They returned and told the others; but they did not believe them either.

 

But later, as the Eleven were at table, he appeared to them and rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart because they had not believed those who saw him after he had been raised. He said to them, "Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature."

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 4, 13-21

Nagtaka ang buong Kataas-taasang Kapulungan ng mga Judio sa katapangang ipinakita nina Pedro at Juan, lalo na nang malaman nilang mga karaniwang tao lamang ang mga ito at hindi nakapag-aral. Nabatid nilang dating kasamahan ni Jesus ang mga ito. Ngunit dahil kaharap nila ang taong pinagaling, na nakatayo sa tabi nina Pedro at Juan, wala silang masabi laban sa dalawa. Kaya't ang dalawa ay pinalabas muna ng Kapulungan, at saka sila nag-usap. “Ano ang gagawin natin sa mga taong ito?” tanong nila. “Hayag na sa buong Jerusalem na isang pambihirang himala ang naganap sa pamamagitan nila at hindi natin ito maikakaila. Upang huwag nang kumalat ang balita tungkol dito, pagsabihan na lamang natin sila na huwag nang magsalita kaninuman sa pangalan ni Jesus.” Kaya't muli nilang ipinatawag sina Pedro at pinagsabihang huwag nang magsalita o magturo pang muli sa pangalan ni Jesus.

 

Subalit sumagot sina Pedro at Juan, “Kayo na ang humatol kung alin ang tama sa paningin ng Diyos, ang sumunod sa inyo o ang sumunod sa Diyos. Hindi maaaring di namin ipahayag ang aming nakita at narinig.”

 

Wala silang makitang paraan upang parusahan ang dalawa, sapagkat ang mga tao'y nagpupuri sa Diyos dahil sa nangyari. Kaya't binalaan nila ang dalawa nang lalo pang mahigpit, at saka pinalaya.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 16, 9-15

Maagang-maaga ng unang araw ng linggo, matapos na siya'y muling mabuhay, si Jesus ay unang nagpakita kay Maria Magdalena. Pitong demonyo ang pinalayas ni Jesus mula sa kanya. Nagpunta si Maria Magdalena sa mga tagasunod ni Jesus upang ibalita sa mga ito ang kanyang nakita. Sila noon ay kasalukuyang nagluluksa at umiiyak. Ngunit ayaw nilang maniwala nang sabihin ni Maria na si Jesus ay buháy at nakita niya.

 

Pagkatapos, nagpakita rin si Jesus sa dalawang alagad na naglalakad papuntang bukid, subalit iba ang kanyang anyo noon. Bumalik agad sila at ibinalita sa kanilang mga kasamahan ang nangyari, ngunit ayaw din silang paniwalaan ng mga ito.

 

Pagkatapos, nagpakita si Jesus sa labing-isang alagad habang kumakain ang mga ito. Sila ay pinagalitan niya dahil sa hindi nila pananalig sa kanya at dahil sa katigasan ng kanilang ulo, dahil ayaw nilang maniwala sa mga nakakita sa kanya pagkatapos na siya'y muling mabuhay.

 

At sinabi ni Jesus sa kanila, “Humayo kayo sa buong mundo at ipangaral ang Magandang Balita sa lahat ng tao.

 

 

APRIL 23, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 2:42-47

They devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles and to the communal life, to the breaking of bread and to the prayers. Awe came upon everyone, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their property and possessions and divide them among all according to each one's need. Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple area and to breaking bread in their homes. They ate their meals with exultation and sincerity of heart, praising God and enjoying favor with all the people. And every day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24

R. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, his love is everlasting.

 

Let the house of Israel say, "His mercy endures forever." Let the house of Aaron say, "His mercy endures forever." Let those who fear the LORD say, "His mercy endures forever."

R. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, his love is everlasting.

 

I was hard pressed and was falling, but the LORD helped me. My strength and my courage is the LORD, and he has been my savior. The joyful shout of victory in the tents of the just:

R. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, his love is everlasting.

 

The stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. By the LORD has this been done; it is wonderful in our eyes. This is the day the LORD has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.

R. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, his love is everlasting.

 

Reading 2 1 PT 1:3-9

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in his great mercy gave us a new birth to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you who by the power of God are safeguarded through faith, to a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the final time. In this you rejoice, although now for a little while you may have to suffer through various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith, more precious than gold that is perishable even though tested by fire, may prove to be for praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Although you have not seen him you love him; even though you do not see him now yet believe in him, you rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, as you attain the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

 

Alleluia JN 20:29

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

You believe in me, Thomas, because you have seen me, says the Lord; blessed are they who have not seen me, but still believe!

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 20:19-31

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, "Peace be with you." When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you." And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained."

 

Thomas, called Didymus, one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples said to him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nailmarks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe."

 

Now a week later his disciples were again inside and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, although the doors were locked, and stood in their midst and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands, and bring your hand and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe." Thomas answered and said to him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed."

 

Now, Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples that are not written in this book. But these are written that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that through this belief you may have life in his name.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 2, 42-47

Inilaan nila ang kanilang mga sarili upang matuto sa turo ng mga apostol, magsama-sama bilang magkakapatid, magsalu-salo sa pagkain ng tinapay, at manalangin.

 

Dahil sa maraming himala at kababalaghang ginagawa sa pamamagitan ng mga apostol sa Jerusalem, naghari sa lahat ang takot. Nagsama-sama ang lahat ng sumasampalataya at ang kanilang mga ari-arian ay itinuring na para sa lahat. Ipinagbili nila ang kanilang mga ari-arian at ang napagbilhan ay ipinamahagi sa bawat isa ayon sa kanyang pangangailangan. Araw-araw, sila'y nagkakatipon sa Templo at nagpipira-piraso ng tinapay sa kanilang mga tahanan, na masaya at may malinis na kalooban. Nagpupuri sila sa Diyos, at kinalulugdan sila ng lahat ng tao. At bawat araw ay idinaragdag sa kanila ng Panginoon ang mga inililigtas.

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa 1 Pedro 1, 3-9

Pasalamatan natin ang Diyos at Ama ng ating Panginoong Jesu-Cristo. Dahil sa laki ng habag niya sa atin, tayo'y binigyan niya ng isang panibagong buhay sa pamamagitan ng muling pagkabuhay ni Jesu-Cristo. Ito ang nagbigay sa atin ng isang buháy na pag-asa na magmamana tayo ng kayamanang di masisira, walang kapintasan, at di kukupas na inihanda ng Diyos sa langit para sa inyo. Sa pamamagitan ng inyong pananampalataya, iniingatan kayo ng kapangyarihan ng Diyos habang hinihintay ninyo ang kaligtasang nakahandang ihayag sa katapusan ng panahon.

 

Ito'y dapat ninyong ikagalak, kahit na maaaring magdanas muna kayo ng iba't ibang pagsubok sa loob ng maikling panahon. Ang ginto, bagama't nasisira, ay pinapadaan sa apoy upang malaman kung talagang dalisay. Gayundin naman, ang inyong pananampalataya, na higit na mahalaga kaysa ginto, ay sinusubok upang malaman kung ito'y talagang tapat. Sa gayon kayo'y papupurihan, dadakilain at pararangalan sa Araw na mahayag si Jesu-Cristo. Hindi ninyo siya nakita ngunit siya'y inibig ninyo. Hindi pa rin ninyo siya nakikita hanggang ngayon, ngunit sumasampalataya kayo sa kanya. Dahil dito'y nag-uumapaw na sa inyong puso ang kagalakang di kayang ilarawan sa salita, sapagkat tinatanggap na ninyo ang bunga ng inyong pananampalataya, ang kaligtasan ng inyong buhay.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 20, 19-31

Kinagabihan ng araw ding iyon na unang araw ng linggo, habang nakasara ang mga pinto ng bahay na kinaroroonan ng mga alagad dahil sa takot nila sa mga Judio, dumating si Jesus. Tumayo siya sa kalagitnaan nila at sinabi, “Sumainyo ang kapayapaan!” Pagkasabi nito, ipinakita niya ang kanyang mga kamay at ang kanyang tagiliran. Tuwang-tuwa ang mga alagad nang makita nila ang Panginoon. Muling sinabi ni Jesus, “Sumainyo ang kapayapaan! Kung paanong isinugo ako ng Ama, isinusugo ko rin kayo.” Pagkatapos, sila'y hiningahan niya at sinabi, “Tanggapin ninyo ang Espiritu Santo. Kung patatawarin ninyo ang mga kasalanan ninuman ay pinatawad na ang mga iyon, subalit ang hindi ninyo patatawarin ay hindi nga pinatawad.”

 

Ngunit si Tomas, na tinatawag na Kambal at kabilang sa Labindalawa, ay wala roon nang dumating si Jesus. Kaya't sinabi sa kanya ng ibang mga alagad, “Nakita namin ang Panginoon!”

 

Sumagot si Tomas, “Hindi ako maniniwala hangga't hindi ko nakikita ang mga butas ng mga pako sa kanyang mga kamay, at hangga't hindi ko nailalagay ang aking daliri sa mga iyon at nahahawakan ang kanyang tagiliran.”

 

Makalipas ang isang linggo, muling nagkatipon sa loob ng bahay ang mga alagad at kasama nila si Tomas. Nakasara ang mga pinto, ngunit pumasok si Jesus at tumayo sa kalagitnaan nila. Sinabi niya, “Sumainyo ang kapayapaan!” At sinabi niya kay Tomas, “Ilagay mo ang iyong daliri dito at tingnan mo ang aking mga kamay. Ilagay mo ang iyong kamay sa aking tagiliran. Huwag ka nang mag-alinlangan pa, sa halip ay maniwala ka.”

 

Sumagot si Tomas, “Panginoon ko at Diyos ko!”

 

Sinabi sa kanya ni Jesus, “Naniniwala ka na ba dahil nakita mo ako? Pinagpala silang hindi nakakita gayunma'y naniniwala.”

 

Marami pang mga himalang ginawa si Jesus na nasaksihan ng mga alagad na hindi nakasulat sa aklat na ito. Ngunit ang mga nakasulat dito ay isinulat upang kayo'y sumampalataya[a] na si Jesus ang Cristo, ang Anak ng Diyos, at sa pagsampalatayang iyon ay magkaroon kayo ng buhay sa pamamagitan niya.

 

 

APRIL 24, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 4:23-31

After their release Peter and John went back to their own people and reported what the chief priests and elders had told them. And when they heard it, they raised their voices to God with one accord and said, "Sovereign Lord, maker of heaven and earth and the sea and all that is in them, you said by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of our father David, your servant:

 

Why did the Gentiles rage and the peoples entertain folly? The kings of the earth took their stand and the princes gathered together against the Lord and against his anointed.

 

Indeed they gathered in this city against your holy servant Jesus whom you anointed, Herod and Pontius Pilate, together with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, to do what your hand and your will had long ago planned to take place. And now, Lord, take note of their threats, and enable your servants to speak your word with all boldness, as you stretch forth your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are done through the name of your holy servant Jesus." As they prayed, the place where they were gathered shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 2:1-3, 4-7A, 7B-9

R. Blessed are all who take refuge in the Lord.

 

Why do the nations rage and the peoples utter folly? The kings of the earth rise up, and the princes conspire together against the LORD and against his anointed: "Let us break their fetters and cast their bonds from us!"

R. Blessed are all who take refuge in the Lord.

 

He who is throned in heaven laughs; the LORD derides them. Then in anger he speaks to them; he terrifies them in his wrath: "I myself have set up my king on Zion, my holy mountain." I will proclaim the decree of the LORD.

R. Blessed are all who take refuge in the Lord.

 

The LORD said to me, "You are my Son; this day I have begotten you. Ask of me and I will give you the nations for an inheritance and the ends of the earth for your possession. You shall rule them with an iron rod; you shall shatter them like an earthen dish."

R. Blessed are all who take refuge in the Lord.

 

Alleluia COL 3:1

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

If then you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 3:1-8

There was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. He came to Jesus at night and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God, for no one can do these signs that you are doing unless God is with him." Jesus answered and said to him, "Amen, amen, I say to you, unless one is born from above, he cannot see the Kingdom of God." Nicodemus said to him, "How can a man once grown old be born again? Surely he cannot reenter his mother's womb and be born again, can he?" Jesus answered, "Amen, amen, I say to you, unless one is born of water and Spirit he cannot enter the Kingdom of God. What is born of flesh is flesh and what is born of spirit is spirit. Do not be amazed that I told you, 'You must be born from above.' The wind blows where it wills, and you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit."

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 4, 23-31

Nang palayain na sina Pedro at Juan, pumunta sila sa mga kasamahan nila at ibinalita ang sinabi ng mga punong pari at ng mga pinuno ng bayan. Nang marinig ito ng mga mananampalataya, sama-sama silang nanalangin sa Diyos, “Panginoon, kayo po ang lumikha ng langit at ng lupa, ng dagat at ng lahat ng nasa mga ito! Kayo po ang nagsalita sa pamamagitan ng aming ninunong si David na inyong lingkod nang sabihin niya sa patnubay ng Espiritu Santo,

 

‘Bakit galit na galit ang mga Hentil,

 

    at ang mga tao'y nagbalak ng mga bagay na walang kabuluhan?

 

Naghanda para sa digmaan ang mga hari sa lupa,

 

    at nagtipon ang mga pinuno

 

    laban sa Panginoon at sa kanyang Hinirang.’

 

Nagkatipon nga sa lungsod na ito sina Herodes at Poncio Pilato, kasama ang mga Hentil at ang buong Israel, laban sa inyong banal na Lingkod na si Jesus, ang inyong Hinirang. Nagkatipon sila upang isagawa ang lahat ng bagay na inyong itinakda noong una pa man ayon sa inyong kapangyarihan at kalooban. At ngayon, Panginoon, tingnan ninyo, pinagbabantaan nila kami. Bigyan ninyo ng katapangan ang inyong mga alipin upang ipangaral ang inyong salita. Iunat ninyo ang inyong kamay upang magpagaling, at loobin ninyo na sa pangalan ng inyong banal na Lingkod na si Jesus ay makagawa kami ng mga himala.”

 

Pagkatapos nilang manalangin, nayanig ang kanilang pinagtitipunan. Silang lahat ay napuspos ng Espiritu Santo at buong tapang na nangaral ng salita ng Diyos.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 3, 1-8

May isang Pariseo na nagngangalang Nicodemo na pinuno ng mga Judio. Isang gabi, pumunta siya kay Jesus at sinabi, “Rabi, nalalaman po naming kayo'y isang tagapagturong mula sa Diyos, sapagkat walang makakagawa ng mga himalang ginagawa ninyo kung wala sa inyo ang Diyos.”

 

Sumagot si Jesus, “Tandaan mo ang sinasabi kong ito: malibang ipanganak na muli ang isang tao, hindi niya makikita ang paghahari ng Diyos.”

 

“Paanong maipapanganak pang muli ang isang taong matanda na? Makakapasok pa ba siya sa sinapupunan ng kanyang ina para muling ipanganak?” tanong ni Nicodemo.

 

Sagot naman ni Jesus, “Tandaan mo ang sinasabi kong ito: malibang ang isang tao ay ipanganak sa pamamagitan ng tubig at ng Espiritu, hindi siya makakapasok sa kaharian ng Diyos. Ang taong ipinanganak sa laman ay laman, at ang ipinanganak sa Espiritu ay espiritu. Huwag kang magtaka sa sinabi ko sa iyo, ‘kayong lahat ay kailangang ipanganak na muli.’ Umiihip ang hangin kung saan nito nais at naririnig mo ang ugong nito, ngunit hindi mo alam kung saan ito nanggagaling at kung saan pupunta. Ganoon din ang bawat ipinanganak sa Espiritu.”

 

 

APRIL 25, 2017

 

Reading 1 1 PT 5:5B-14

Beloved: Clothe yourselves with humility in your dealings with one another, for:

 

God opposes the proud but bestows favor on the humble.

 

So humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you.

 

Be sober and vigilant. Your opponent the Devil is prowling around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in faith, knowing that your brothers and sisters throughout the world undergo the same sufferings. The God of all grace who called you to his eternal glory through Christ Jesus will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you after you have suffered a little. To him be dominion forever. Amen.

 

I write you this briefly through Silvanus, whom I consider a faithful brother, exhorting you and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Remain firm in it. The chosen one at Babylon sends you greeting, as does Mark, my son. Greet one another with a loving kiss. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 89:2-3, 6-7, 16-17

R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

 

The favors of the LORD I will sing forever; through all generations my mouth shall proclaim your faithfulness. For you have said, "My kindness is established forever"; in heaven you have confirmed your faithfulness.

R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

 

The heavens proclaim your wonders, O LORD, and your faithfulness, in the assembly of the holy ones. For who in the skies can rank with the LORD? Who is like the LORD among the sons of God?

R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

 

Blessed the people who know the joyful shout; in the light of your countenance, O LORD, they walk. At your name they rejoice all the day, and through your justice they are exalted.

R. For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.

 

Alleluia 1 COR 1:23A-24B

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

We proclaim Christ crucified: he is the power of God and the wisdom of God.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel MK 16:15-20

Jesus appeared to the Eleven and said to them: "Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; whoever does not believe will be condemned. These signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will drive out demons, they will speak new languages. They will pick up serpents with their hands, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not harm them. They will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover."

 

Then the Lord Jesus, after he spoke to them, was taken up into heaven and took his seat at the right hand of God. But they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the word through accompanying signs.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa 1 Pedro 5, 5-14

At kayo namang mga kabataan, pasakop kayo sa matatandang pinuno ng iglesya. At kayong lahat ay magpakumbaba sapagkat, “Sinasalungat ng Diyos ang mapagmataas, ngunit pinagpapala niya ang mababang-loob.” Kaya nga, pasakop kayo sa kapangyarihan ng Diyos at dadakilain niya kayo pagdating ng takdang panahon. Ipagkatiwala ninyo sa kanya ang inyong mga alalahanin sa buhay sapagkat siya ay nagmamalasakit sa inyo.

 

Maging handa kayo at magbantay. Ang diyablo, ang kaaway ninyo, ay parang leong umuungal at aali-aligid na naghahanap ng malalapa. Labanan ninyo siya at magpakatatag kayo sa inyong pananampalataya sa Diyos. Tulad ng alam ninyo, hindi lamang kayo ang nagtitiis ng mga kahirapan, kundi gayundin ang inyong mga kapatid sa buong daigdig. Pagkatapos ninyong magtiis sa loob ng maikling panahon, ang Diyos, na siyang pinanggagalingan ng lahat ng pagpapala, ang siyang magbibigay sa inyo ng kagalingan, katatagan, at lakas ng loob at isang pundasyong di matitinag. Siya ang tumawag sa inyo upang makibahagi kayo sa kanyang walang hanggang kaluwalhatian, kasama ni Cristo. Sa kanya ang kapangyarihan magpakailanman! Amen.

 

Sinulatan ko kayo sa tulong ni Silas, na isa nating kapatid at lubos kong pinagkakatiwalaan. Sa pamamagitan ng maikling sulat na ito ay nais kong palakasin ang inyong loob at magpatotoo na ito nga ang kagandahang-loob ng Diyos. Manatili kayo sa pagpapalang ito.

 

Kinukumusta kayo ng mga kapatid na nasa Babilonia, mga pinili ring katulad ninyo; kinukumusta rin kayo ni Marcos, na aking anak sa pananampalataya. Magbatian kayo bilang magkakapatid na nagmamahalan.

 

Mabuting Balita Marcos 16, 15-20

At sinabi ni Jesus sa kanila, “Humayo kayo sa buong mundo at ipangaral ang Magandang Balita sa lahat ng tao. Ang sinumang sumasampalataya at mabautismuhan ay maliligtas, ngunit ang ayaw sumampalataya ay paparusahan. Ang mga sumasampalataya ay bibigyan ng kapangyarihang gumawa ng mga himala: sa pangalan ko'y magpapalayas sila ng mga demonyo at magsasalita ng iba't ibang wika. Hindi sila mapapahamak kahit dumampot sila ng ahas o makainom ng lason; at gagaling ang mga maysakit na papatungan nila ng kamay.”

 

Pagkatapos niyang magsalita sa kanila, ang Panginoong Jesus ay iniakyat sa langit at umupo sa kanan ng Diyos. Humayo nga at nangaral ang mga alagad sa lahat ng dako. Tinulungan sila ng Panginoon sa gawaing ito. Pinatunayan niyang totoo ang kanilang ipinapangaral sa pamamagitan ng mga himala na ipinagkaloob niya sa kanila

 

 

 

APRIL 26, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 5:17-26

The high priest rose up and all his companions, that is, the party of the Sadducees, and, filled with jealousy, laid hands upon the Apostles and put them in the public jail. But during the night, the angel of the Lord opened the doors of the prison, led them out, and said, "Go and take your place in the temple area, and tell the people everything about this life." When they heard this, they went to the temple early in the morning and taught. When the high priest and his companions arrived, they convened the Sanhedrin, the full senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the jail to have them brought in. But the court officers who went did not find them in the prison, so they came back and reported, "We found the jail securely locked and the guards stationed outside the doors, but when we opened them, we found no one inside." When the captain of the temple guard and the chief priests heard this report, they were at a loss about them, as to what this would come to. Then someone came in and reported to them, "The men whom you put in prison are in the temple area and are teaching the people." Then the captain and the court officers went and brought them, but without force, because they were afraid of being stoned by the people.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

 

I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall be ever in my mouth. Let my soul glory in the LORD; the lowly will hear me and be glad.

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

 

Glorify the LORD with me, let us together extol his name. I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

 

Look to him that you may be radiant with joy, and your faces may not blush with shame. When the poor one called out, the LORD heard, and from all his distress he saved him.

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

 

The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them. Taste and see how good the LORD is; blessed the man who takes refuge in him.

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

 

Alleluia JN 3:16

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 3:16-21

God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him will not be condemned, but whoever does not believe has already been condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the only-begotten Son of God. And this is the verdict, that the light came into the world, but people preferred darkness to light, because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come toward the light, so that his works might not be exposed. But whoever lives the truth comes to the light, so that his works may be clearly seen as done in God.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 5, 17-26

Labis na nainggit sa mga apostol ang pinakapunong pari at ang mga kasamahan niyang Saduseo, kaya't kumilos sila. Dinakip nila ang mga apostol at ibinilanggo. Ngunit kinagabiha'y binuksan ng isang anghel ng Panginoon ang bilangguan at inilabas ang mga apostol. Sinabi nito sa kanila, “Pumunta kayo sa Templo at ipahayag sa mga tao ang lahat ng bagay tungkol sa bagong pamumuhay na ito.” Kaya nang mag-uumaga na, pumasok sa Templo ang mga apostol at nagturo sa mga tao.

 

Nagtipon naman ang pinakapunong pari at ang kanyang mga kasamahan, at tumawag ng pangkalahatang pulong ng Kataas-taasang Kapulungan ng mga Judio at ng pamunuan ng Israel. Ipinakuha nila sa bilangguan ang mga apostol, ngunit ang mga ito ay wala na nang dumating doon ang mga kawal kaya't nagbalik sila sa Kapulungan at nag-ulat, “Nakita po namin na nakasusing mabuti ang pintuan ng bilangguan at nakatayo roon ang mga bantay. Ngunit nang buksan namin, wala kaming nakitang tao sa loob!” Nang marinig ito, nabahala ang mga punong pari at ang kapitan ng mga bantay sa Templo. Hindi nila maubos-maisip kung ano ang nangyari sa mga apostol.

 

Siya namang pagdating ng isang taong ganito ang sabi, “Tingnan po ninyo, ang mga lalaking ipinakulong ninyo ay naroon sa Templo at nagtuturo sa mga tao.”

 

Kaya't pumunta sa Templo ang kapitan, kasama ang kanyang mga tauhan. Kinuha nila ang mga apostol, ngunit hindi sila gumamit ng dahas sa pangambang baka pagbabatuhin sila ng mga tao.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 3, 16-21

Sapagkat gayon na lamang ang pag-ibig ng Diyos sa sangkatauhan, kaya't ibinigay niya ang kanyang kaisa-isang Anak, upang ang sinumang sumampalataya sa kanya ay hindi mapahamak, kundi magkaroon ng buhay na walang hanggan. Isinugo ng Diyos ang kanyang Anak, hindi upang hatulan ng parusa ang sanlibutan, kundi upang iligtas ito sa pamamagitan niya.

 

Hindi hinahatulan ng parusa ang sumasampalataya sa Anak. Ngunit hinatulan na ang hindi sumasampalataya, sapagkat hindi siya sumampalataya sa kaisa-isang Anak ng Diyos. Ganito ang paghatol ng Diyos: naparito sa sanlibutan ang ilaw, ngunit inibig pa ng mga tao ang dilim kaysa liwanag, sapagkat masasama ang kanilang mga gawa. Kinasusuklaman ng mga gumagawa ng masama ang ilaw, ni hindi lumalapit dito upang hindi mahayag ang kanilang mga gawa. Ngunit ang namumuhay ayon sa katotohanan ay lumalapit sa ilaw, upang maihayag na ang mga ginagawa niya ay pagsunod sa Diyos.

 

 

 

APRIL 27, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 5:27-33

When the court officers had brought the Apostles in and made them stand before the Sanhedrin, the high priest questioned them, "We gave you strict orders did we not, to stop teaching in that name. Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and want to bring this man's blood upon us." But Peter and the Apostles said in reply, "We must obey God rather than men. The God of our ancestors raised Jesus, though you had him killed by hanging him on a tree. God exalted him at his right hand as leader and savior to grant Israel repentance and forgiveness of sins. We are witnesses of these things, as is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him."

 

When they heard this, they became infuriated and wanted to put them to death.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 34:2 AND 9, 17-18, 19-20

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

 

I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall be ever in my mouth. Taste and see how good the LORD is; blessed the man who takes refuge in him.

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

 

The LORD confronts the evildoers, to destroy remembrance of them from the earth. When the just cry out, the LORD hears them, and from all their distress he rescues them.

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

 

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves. Many are the troubles of the just man, but out of them all the LORD delivers him.

R. The Lord hears the cry of the poor.

 

Alleluia JN 20:29

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

You believe in me, Thomas, because you have seen me, says the Lord; blessed are those who have not seen, but still believe?

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 3:31-36

The one who comes from above is above all. The one who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of earthly things. But the one who comes from heaven is above all. He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. Whoever does accept his testimony certifies that God is trustworthy. For the one whom God sent speaks the words of God. He does not ration his gift of the Spirit. The Father loves the Son and has given everything over to him. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever disobeys the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains upon him.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 5, 27-33

Iniharap nila sa Kapulungan ang mga apostol at ang mga ito'y tinanong ng pinakapunong pari. “Hindi ba't mahigpit namin kayong pinagbawalang mangaral sa pangalan ng taong iyan?” sinabi niya. “Ngunit tingnan ninyo ang inyong ginawa! Laganap na sa Jerusalem ang inyong itinuturo at nais pa ninyo kaming papanagutin sa pagkamatay ng taong iyan!” Sumagot si Pedro at ang ibang mga apostol, “Sa Diyos kami dapat sumunod, at hindi sa tao. Ang Diyos ng ating mga ninuno ang muling bumuhay kay Jesus na pinatay ninyo nang siya'y inyong ipinako sa krus. Iniakyat siya ng Diyos sa kanyang kanan bilang Tagapanguna at Tagapagligtas, upang bigyan ang mga Israelita ng pagkakataong magsisi at tumalikod sa kasalanan, at nang sa gayon ay magkamit sila ng kapatawaran. Saksi kami sa mga bagay na ito, kami at ang Espiritu Santo na ipinagkaloob ng Diyos sa mga sumusunod sa kanya.”

 

Nagngitngit sa galit ang mga bumubuo ng Kapulungan nang marinig ito, at nais nilang ipapatay ang mga apostol.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 3, 31-36

Ang mula sa itaas ay dakila sa lahat; ang mula sa lupa ay taga-lupa at nagsasalita tungkol sa mga bagay sa lupa. Ang mula sa langit ay dakila sa lahat. Pinapatotohanan niya ang kanyang nakita at narinig ngunit walang tumatanggap sa kanyang patotoo. Ang tumatanggap sa kanyang patotoo ay nagpapatunay na ang sinasabi ng Diyos ay totoo. Ang isinugo ng Diyos ay nagpapahayag ng mga salita ng Diyos, sapagkat lubusang ipinagkakaloob ng Diyos ang kanyang Espiritu. Iniibig ng Ama ang Anak, at ibinigay niya rito ang pamamahala sa lahat ng bagay. Ang sumasampalataya sa Anak ay may buhay na walang hanggan. Ngunit ang hindi sumusunod sa Anak ay hindi magkakaroon ng buhay. Sa halip, mananatili sa kanya ang poot ng Diyos.

 

 

APRIL 28, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 5:34-42

A Pharisee in the Sanhedrin named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, respected by all the people, stood up, ordered the Apostles to be put outside for a short time, and said to the Sanhedrin, "Fellow children of Israel, be careful what you are about to do to these men. Some time ago, Theudas appeared, claiming to be someone important, and about four hundred men joined him, but he was killed, and all those who were loyal to him were disbanded and came to nothing. After him came Judas the Galilean at the time of the census. He also drew people after him, but he too perished and all who were loyal to him were scattered. So now I tell you, have nothing to do with these men, and let them go. For if this endeavor or this activity is of human origin, it will destroy itself. But if it comes from God, you will not be able to destroy them; you may even find yourselves fighting against God." They were persuaded by him. After recalling the Apostles, they had them flogged, ordered them to stop speaking in the name of Jesus, and dismissed them. So they left the presence of the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they had been found worthy to suffer dishonor for the sake of the name. And all day long, both at the temple and in their homes, they did not stop teaching and proclaiming the Christ, Jesus.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 27:1, 4, 13-14

R. One thing I seek: to dwell in the house of the Lord.

 

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear? The LORD is my life's refuge; of whom should I be afraid?

R. One thing I seek: to dwell in the house of the Lord.

 

One thing I ask of the LORD this I seek: To dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, That I may gaze on the loveliness of the LORD and contemplate his temple.

R. One thing I seek: to dwell in the house of the Lord.

 

I believe that I shall see the bounty of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD with courage; be stouthearted, and wait for the LORD.

R. One thing I seek: to dwell in the house of the Lord.

 

Alleluia MT 4:4B

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 6:1-15

Jesus went across the Sea of Galilee. A large crowd followed him, because they saw the signs he was performing on the sick. Jesus went up on the mountain, and there he sat down with his disciples. The Jewish feast of Passover was near. When Jesus raised his eyes and saw that a large crowd was coming to him, he said to Philip, "Where can we buy enough food for them to eat?" He said this to test him, because he himself knew what he was going to do. Philip answered him, "Two hundred days' wages worth of food would not be enough for each of them to have a little." One of his disciples, Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, said to him, "There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish; but what good are these for so many?" Jesus said, "Have the people recline." Now there was a great deal of grass in that place. So the men reclined, about five thousand in number. Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed them to those who were reclining, and also as much of the fish as they wanted. When they had had their fill, he said to his disciples, "Gather the fragments left over, so that nothing will be wasted." So they collected them, and filled twelve wicker baskets with fragments from the five barley loaves that had been more than they could eat. When the people saw the sign he had done, they said, "This is truly the Prophet, the one who is to come into the world." Since Jesus knew that they were going to come and carry him off to make him king, he withdrew again to the mountain alone.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 5, 34-42

Ngunit tumayo ang isa sa kanila na ang pangalan ay Gamaliel, isang Pariseong guro ng Kautusan at iginagalang ng buong bayan. Iniutos niyang ilabas muna ang mga apostol, at pagkatapos ay nagsalita, “Mga kababayan, isipin ninyong mabuti ang gagawin ninyo sa mga taong ito. Hindi pa nagtatagal mula nang lumitaw si Teudas na nagpanggap na isang dakilang pinuno, at nakaakit ng may apatnaraang tagasunod. Ngunit nang mapatay siya, nagkahiwa-hiwalay ang kanyang mga tauhan at nauwi sa wala ang kanilang kilusan. Pagkatapos, lumitaw naman si Judas na taga-Galilea noong panahon ng pagpapatala ng mga mamamayan, at nakaakit din ito ng maraming tauhan. Nang mapatay siya, nagkawatak-watak din ang mga tagasunod niya. Kaya't ganito ang payo ko: huwag ninyong pakialaman ang mga taong ito; hayaan ninyo sila. Kung ang kanilang plano o kilusan ay mula sa tao, ito'y kusang maglalaho. Ngunit kung ito'y mula sa Diyos, hindi ninyo ito mahahadlangan, at lilitaw pang kayo'y lumalaban sa Diyos!”

 

Sinunod nga nila ang payo ni Gamaliel. Pinapasok nilang muli ang mga apostol, at matapos ipahagupit at pagbawalang mangaral sa pangalan ni Jesus, ang mga ito'y pinalaya. Nilisan ng mga apostol ang Kapulungan at sila'y galak na galak sapagkat minarapat ng Diyos na sila'y magdanas ng kahihiyan alang-alang sa pangalan ni Jesus. At araw-araw, sa Templo at sa mga bahay-bahay, walang tigil silang nagturo at nangaral ng magandang balita tungkol kay Jesus, ang Cristo.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 6, 1-15

Pagkatapos nito, tumawid si Jesus sa ibayo ng Lawa ng Galilea, na tinatawag ding Lawa ng Tiberias. Sinundan siya ng napakaraming tao sapagkat nakita nila ang mga himalang ginawa niya sa pagpapagaling sa mga maysakit. Umakyat si Jesus sa bundok kasama ang kanyang mga alagad at naupo roon. Noon ay malapit na ang Paskwa ng mga Judio. Tumanaw si Jesus at nang makita niyang dumarating ang napakaraming tao, tinanong niya si Felipe, “Saan kaya tayo makakabili ng tinapay upang makakain ang mga taong ito?” Sinabi niya iyon upang subukin si Felipe, sapagkat alam na niya ang kanyang gagawin.

 

Sumagot naman si Felipe, “Kahit na po halagang dalawandaang salaping pilak[a] ng tinapay ay di sasapat para makakain sila nang tigkakaunti.”

 

Sinabi ni Andres na isa sa kanyang mga alagad at kapatid ni Simon Pedro, “Mayroon po ritong isang batang lalaki na may dalang limang tinapay na sebada at dalawang isda. Subalit sasapat kaya ang mga ito?” “Paupuin ninyo ang mga tao,” sabi ni Jesus. Madamo sa lugar na iyon. Umupo nga ang mga tao; sa kanila'y may humigit-kumulang sa limanlibo ang mga lalaki. Kinuha ni Jesus ang tinapay at matapos magpasalamat sa Diyos ay ipinamahagi iyon sa mga taong nakaupo. Gayundin ang ginawa niya sa mga isda. Nakakain ang lahat at nabusog. Nang makakain na ang mga tao, sinabi ni Jesus sa mga alagad, “Ipunin ninyo ang lumabis nang di masayang.” Ganoon nga ang ginawa nila, at nakapuno sila ng labindalawang kaing mula sa limang tinapay na sebada.

 

Nang makita ng mga tao ang himalang ginawa ni Jesus, sinabi nila, “Tunay na ito ang Propetang darating sa sanlibutan!” Napansin ni Jesus na lalapitan siya ng mga tao at pipilitin siyang gawing hari, kaya't umalis siyang muli at mag-isang umakyat sa bundok.

 

 

APRIL 29, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 6:1-7

As the number of disciples continued to grow, the Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. So the Twelve called together the community of the disciples and said, "It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table. Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, whom we shall appoint to this task, whereas we shall devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word." The proposal was acceptable to the whole community, so they chose Stephen, a man filled with faith and the Holy Spirit, also Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicholas of Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the Apostles who prayed and laid hands on them. The word of God continued to spread, and the number of the disciples in Jerusalem increased greatly; even a large group of priests were becoming obedient to the faith.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 33:1-2, 4-5, 18-19

R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.

 

Exult, you just, in the LORD; praise from the upright is fitting. Give thanks to the LORD on the harp; with the ten-stringed lyre chant his praises.

R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.

 

Upright is the word of the LORD, and all his works are trustworthy. He loves justice and right; of the kindness of the LORD the earth is full.

R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.

 

See, the eyes of the LORD are upon those who fear him, upon those who hope for his kindness, To deliver them from death and preserve them in spite of famine.

R. Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.

 

Alleluia

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Christ is risen, who made all things; he has shown mercy on all people.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 6:16-21

When it was evening, the disciples of Jesus went down to the sea, embarked in a boat, and went across the sea to Capernaum. It had already grown dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. The sea was stirred up because a strong wind was blowing. When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they began to be afraid. But he said to them, "It is I. Do not be afraid." They wanted to take him into the boat, but the boat immediately arrived at the shore to which they were heading.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 6, 1-7

Habang patuloy na dumarami ang mga alagad, nagkaroon ng reklamo laban sa mga Hebreo ang mga Helenista. Sinabi nilang ang mga biyuda sa pangkat nila ay napapabayaan sa pang-araw-araw na pamamahagi ng ikabubuhay. Kaya't tinipon ng Labindalawa ang buong kapulungan ng mga mananampalataya at sinabi sa kanila, “Hindi namin dapat pabayaan ang pangangaral ng salita ng Diyos upang mangasiwa sa pamamahagi ng ikabubuhay. Kaya, mga kapatid, pumili kayo sa mga kasamahan ninyo ng pitong lalaking iginagalang, puspos ng Espiritu, at matatalino upang ilagay namin sila sa tungkuling ito. Samantala, iuukol naman namin ang aming panahon sa pananalangin at sa pangangaral ng salita.”

 

Nalugod ang buong kapulungan sa panukalang ito, kaya't pinili nila si Esteban, isang lalaking lubos ang pananampalataya sa Diyos at puspos ng Espiritu Santo, at sina Felipe, Procoro, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, at si Nicolas na taga-Antioquia, isang Hentil na nahikayat sa pananampalatayang Judio. Nang iharap sila sa mga apostol, sila'y ipinanalangin at pinatungan ng kamay.

 

Patuloy na lumaganap ang salita ng Diyos at dumami ang mga alagad sa Jerusalem. At maraming paring Judio ang naniwala sa Magandang Balita.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 6, 16-21

Nang magtatakipsilim na, ang mga alagad ay pumunta sa tabi ng lawa. Sumakay sila sa bangka at naglayag papuntang Capernaum. Madilim na'y wala pa si Jesus. Lumakas ang hangin at lumaki ang alon. Nang makasagwan na sila nang may lima o anim na kilometro, nakita nila si Jesus na lumalakad sa ibabaw ng tubig papalapit sa bangka, at sila'y natakot. Ngunit sinabi ni Jesus sa kanila, “Huwag kayong matakot. Ako ito!” Tuwang-tuwa nilang pinasakay si Jesus; at kaagad na nakarating ang bangka sa kanilang pupuntahan.

 

 

APRIL 30, 2017

Reading 1 ACTS 2:14, 22-33

Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice, and proclaimed: "You who are Jews, indeed all of you staying in Jerusalem. Let this be known to you, and listen to my words. You who are Israelites, hear these words. Jesus the Nazarene was a man commended to you by God with mighty deeds, wonders, and signs, which God worked through him in your midst, as you yourselves know. This man, delivered up by the set plan and foreknowledge of God, you killed, using lawless men to crucify him. But God raised him up, releasing him from the throes of death, because it was impossible for him to be held by it. For David says of him: I saw the Lord ever before me, with him at my right hand I shall not be disturbed. Therefore my heart has been glad and my tongue has exulted; my flesh, too, will dwell in hope, because you will not abandon my soul to the netherworld, nor will you suffer your holy one to see corruption. You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.

 

"My brothers, one can confidently say to you about the patriarch David that he died and was buried, and his tomb is in our midst to this day. But since he was a prophet and knew that God had sworn an oath to him that he would set one of his descendants upon his throne, he foresaw and spoke of the resurrection of the Christ, that neither was he abandoned to the netherworld nor did his flesh see corruption. God raised this Jesus; of this we are all witnesses. Exalted at the right hand of God, he received the promise of the Holy Spirit from the Father and poured him forth, as you see and hear."

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 16:1-2, 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11

R. Lord, you will show us the path of life.

 

Keep me, O God, for in you I take refuge; I say to the LORD, "My Lord are you." O LORD, my allotted portion and my cup, you it is who hold fast my lot.

R. Lord, you will show us the path of life.

 

I bless the LORD who counsels me; even in the night my heart exhorts me. I set the LORD ever before me; with him at my right hand I shall not be disturbed.

R. Lord, you will show us the path of life.

 

Therefore my heart is glad and my soul rejoices, my body, too, abides in confidence; because you will not abandon my soul to the netherworld, nor will you suffer your faithful one to undergo corruption.

R. Lord, you will show us the path of life.

 

You will show me the path to life, abounding joy in your presence, the delights at your right hand forever.

R. Lord, you will show us the path of life.

 

Reading 2 1 PT 1:17-21

Beloved: If you invoke as Father him who judges impartially according to each one's works, conduct yourselves with reverence during the time of your sojourning, realizing that you were ransomed from your futile conduct, handed on by your ancestors, not with perishable things like silver or gold but with the precious blood of Christ as of a spotless unblemished lamb.

 

He was known before the foundation of the world but revealed in the final time for you, who through him believe in God who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.

 

Alleluia CF. LK 24:32

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Lord Jesus, open the Scriptures to us; make our hearts burn while you speak to us.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel LK 24:13-35

That very day, the first day of the week, two of Jesus' disciples were going to a village seven miles from Jerusalem called Emmaus, and they were conversing about all the things that had occurred. And it happened that while they were conversing and debating, Jesus himself drew near and walked with them, but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him. He asked them, "What are you discussing as you walk along?" They stopped, looking downcast. One of them, named Cleopas, said to him in reply, "Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know of the things that have taken place there in these days?" And he replied to them, "What sort of things?" They said to him, "The things that happened to Jesus the Nazarene, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, how our chief priests and rulers both handed him over to a sentence of death and crucified him. But we were hoping that he would be the one to redeem Israel; and besides all this, it is now the third day since this took place. Some women from our group, however, have astounded us: they were at the tomb early in the morning and did not find his body; they came back and reported that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who announced that he was alive. Then some of those with us went to the tomb and found things just as the women had described, but him they did not see." And he said to them, "Oh, how foolish you are! How slow of heart to believe all that the prophets spoke! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?" Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them what referred to him in all the Scriptures. As they approached the village to which they were going, he gave the impression that he was going on farther. But they urged him, "Stay with us, for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over." So he went in to stay with them. And it happened that, while he was with them at table, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them. With that their eyes were opened and they recognized him, but he vanished from their sight. Then they said to each other, "Were not our hearts burning within us while he spoke to us on the way and opened the Scriptures to us?" So they set out at once and returned to Jerusalem where they found gathered together the eleven and those with them who were saying, "The Lord has truly been raised and has appeared to Simon!" Then the two recounted what had taken place on the way and how he was made known to them in the breaking of bread.

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 2, 14. 22-23

Kaya't tumayo si Pedro, kasama ng labing-isang apostol, at nagsalita nang malakas, “Mga taga-Judea, at kayong lahat na nakatira sa Jerusalem, pakinggan ninyong mabuti ang sasabihin ko.

 

“Mga Israelita, pakinggan ninyo ito! Si Jesus na taga-Nazaret ay sinugo ng Diyos. Pinatunayan ito ng mga himala, mga kababalaghan, at mga palatandaang ginawa ng Diyos sa pamamagitan niya. Alam ninyo ito sapagkat ang lahat ng ito ay naganap sa kalagitnaan ninyo. 23 Ang Jesus na ito, na ipinagkanulo sa inyo ayon sa pasya at kaalaman ng Diyos sa mula't mula pa, ay ipinapako ninyo at ipinapatay sa mga taong masasama.

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa 1 Pedro 1, 17-21

Walang kinikilingan ang Diyos. Hinahatulan niya ang mga tao ayon sa mga ginawa nila. At dahil tinatawag ninyo siyang Ama, mamuhay kayong may takot sa kanya habang kayo'y nasa mundong ito. Alam ninyo kung ano ang ipinantubos sa inyo sa walang kabuluhang pamumuhay na inyong minana sa inyong mga magulang. Tinubos kayo hindi sa pamamagitan ng mga bagay na nasisira, tulad ng ginto o pilak, kundi sa pamamagitan ng mahalagang dugo ni Cristo. Siya'y tulad ng korderong walang dungis at kapintasan. Itinalaga siya ng Diyos bago pa nilikha ang daigdig, at alang-alang sa inyo ay ipinahayag sa mga huling araw na ito. Dahil kay Cristo, sumasampalataya kayo sa Diyos na sa kanya'y muling bumuhay at nagparangal, kaya't ang inyong pananampalataya at pag-asa ay nasa Diyos.

 

Mabuting Balita Lucas 24, 13-35

Nang araw ding iyon, may dalawang alagad na naglalakad papuntang Emaus, isang nayong may labing-isang kilometro[b] ang layo mula sa Jerusalem. Pinag-uusapan nila ang mga pangyayari. Habang sila'y nag-uusap, lumapit si Jesus at nakisabay sa kanila, ngunit siya'y hindi nila nakilala na para bang natatakpan ang kanilang mga mata. Tinanong sila ni Jesus, “Ano ba ang pinag-uusapan ninyo?”

 

Tumigil silang nalulumbay, at sinabi ng isa sa kanila na nagngangalang Cleopas, “Ikaw lamang yata ang dayuhan sa Jerusalem na hindi nakakaalam sa mga pangyayaring katatapos lamang maganap doon.”

 

“Anong mga pangyayari?” tanong niya.

 

Sumagot sila, “Tungkol kay Jesus na taga-Nazaret, isang propetang makapangyarihan sa salita at gawa maging sa harap ng Diyos at ng mga tao. Isinakdal siya ng aming mga punong pari at mga pinuno ng bayan upang mahatulang mamatay, at siya'y ipinako sa krus. Siya pa naman ang inaasahan naming magpapalaya sa Israel. Hindi lamang iyan. Ikatlong araw na ngayon mula nang mangyari ito. Nabigla kami sa ibinalita ng ilan sa mga babaing kasamahan namin. Maagang-maaga raw silang nagpunta sa libingan at hindi nila natagpuan ang kanyang bangkay. Nagbalik sila at ang sabi'y nakakita raw sila ng isang pangitain, mga anghel na nagsabing si Jesus ay buháy. Pumunta rin sa libingan ang ilan sa mga kasama namin at ganoon nga ang natagpuan nila, ngunit hindi nila nakita si Jesus.”

 

Sinabi sa kanila ni Jesus, “Kay hahangal ninyo! Kay kukupad ninyong maniwala sa lahat ng sinasabi ng mga propeta! Hindi ba't kailangang ang Cristo ay magtiis ng lahat ng ito bago siya pumasok sa kanyang kaluwalhatian?” At ipinaliwanag sa kanila ni Jesus ang lahat ng sinasabi sa Kasulatan tungkol sa kanya, simula sa mga aklat ni Moises hanggang sa mga sinulat ng mga propeta.

 

Malapit na sila sa nayong kanilang pupuntahan at si Jesus ay parang magpapatuloy pa sa paglakad, ngunit siya'y pinigil nila. “Tumuloy ka muna rito sa amin. Palubog na ang araw at dumidilim na,” sabi nila. Kaya't sumama nga siya sa kanila. Nang siya'y kasalo na nila sa pagkain, dumampot siya ng tinapay at nagpasalamat sa Diyos; pagkatapos, pinagpira-piraso iyon at ibinigay sa kanila. Noon nabuksan ang kanilang mga mata at nakilala nila si Jesus, subalit siya'y biglang nawala sa kanilang paningin. Nasabi nila sa isa't isa, “Kaya pala nag-aalab ang ating puso habang tayo'y kinakausap niya sa daan at ipinapaliwanag sa atin ang mga Kasulatan!”

 

Agad silang tumayo at nagbalik sa Jerusalem. Naratnan nilang nagkakatipon doon ang labing-isa at ang ibang kasamahan nila. Sinabi ng mga ito sa dalawa, “Totoo nga palang muling nabuhay ang Panginoon! Nagpakita siya kay Simon!” At isinalaysay naman ng dalawa ang nangyari sa daan at kung paano nila nakilala si Jesus nang paghati-hatiin nito ang tinapay.

 

 

MAY 2, 2017

Reading 1 ACTS 7:51—8:1A

Stephen said to the people, the elders, and the scribes: "You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always oppose the Holy Spirit; you are just like your ancestors. Which of the prophets did your ancestors not persecute? They put to death those who foretold the coming of the righteous one, whose betrayers and murderers you have now become. You received the law as transmitted by angels, but you did not observe it."

 

When they heard this, they were infuriated, and they ground their teeth at him. But Stephen, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked up intently to heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God, and Stephen said, "Behold, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God." But they cried out in a loud voice, covered their ears, and rushed upon him together. They threw him out of the city, and began to stone him. The witnesses laid down their cloaks at the feet of a young man named Saul. As they were stoning Stephen, he called out, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he fell to his knees and cried out in a loud voice, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them"; and when he said this, he fell asleep.

 

Now Saul was consenting to his execution.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 31:3CD-4, 6 AND 7B AND 8A, 17 AND 21AB

R. Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.

 

Be my rock of refuge, a stronghold to give me safety. You are my rock and my fortress; for your name's sake you will lead and guide me.

R. Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.

 

Into your hands I commend my spirit; you will redeem me, O LORD, O faithful God. My trust is in the LORD; I will rejoice and be glad of your mercy.

R. Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.

 

Let your face shine upon your servant; save me in your kindness. You hide them in the shelter of your presence from the plottings of men.

R. Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.

 

Alleluia JN 6:35AB

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

I am the bread of life, says the Lord; whoever comes to me will never hunger.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 6:30-35

The crowd said to Jesus: "What sign can you do, that we may see and believe in you? What can you do? Our ancestors ate manna in the desert, as it is written:

 

He gave them bread from heaven to eat."

 

So Jesus said to them, "Amen, amen, I say to you, it was not Moses who gave the bread from heaven; my Father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."

 

So they said to Jesus, "Sir, give us this bread always." Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst."

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 7, 51 – 8, 1

“Napakatigas ng ulo ninyo! Ang mga puso at tainga ninyo ay parang sa mga pagano! Kung ano ang ginawa ng inyong mga ninuno, iyon din ang ginagawa ninyo ngayon. Lagi ninyong nilalabanan ang Espiritu Santo. Sinong propeta ang hindi inusig ng inyong mga ninuno? Pinatay nila ang mga nagpahayag tungkol sa pagparito ng Matuwid na Lingkod na inyo namang ipinagkanulo at ipinapatay. Tumanggap kayo ng kautusang ibinigay ng Diyos sa pamamagitan ng mga anghel, ngunit hindi naman ninyo ito sinunod.”

 

Nagngitngit sa matinding galit kay Esteban ang buong Kataas-taasang Kapulungan ng mga Judio nang marinig ang mga ito. Ngunit si Esteban, na puspos ng Espiritu Santo, ay tumingala sa langit, at nakita niya ang kaluwalhatian ng Diyos at si Jesus na nakatayo sa kanan ng Diyos. Kaya't sinabi niya, “Tingnan ninyo! Nakikita kong bukás ang kalangitan, at ang Anak ng Tao na nakatayo sa kanan ng Diyos.”

 

Tinakpan nila ang kanilang mga tainga at nagsigawan. Pagkatapos, sabay-sabay nilang sinugod si Esteban at kinaladkad siya palabas ng lungsod upang batuhin. Inilagay ng mga saksi ang kanilang mga balabal sa paanan ng isang binatang nagngangalang Saulo. At habang binabato nila si Esteban, nanalangin siya ng ganito: “Panginoong Jesus, tanggapin mo po ang aking espiritu.” Lumuhod si Esteban at sumigaw nang malakas, “Panginoon, huwag mo po silang pananagutin sa kasalanang ito!”

 

At pagkasabi nito, siya'y namatay.

 

Nang araw na iyon, nagsimula ang matinding pag-uusig laban sa iglesya sa Jerusalem; at maliban sa mga apostol, ang lahat ng sumasampalataya ay nagkawatak-watak at napunta sa iba't ibang lugar sa lupain ng Judea at Samaria.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 6, 30-35

“Ano pong himala ang maipapakita ninyo upang sumampalataya kami sa inyo? Ano po ang inyong gagawin? Ang aming mga ninuno ay kumain ng manna sa ilang; ayon sa nasusulat, ‘Sila'y binigyan niya ng tinapay na galing sa langit,’” sabi nila.

 

Sumagot si Jesus, “Pakatandaan ninyo: hindi si Moises ang nagbigay sa inyo ng tinapay na galing sa langit. Ang aking Ama ang nagbibigay sa inyo ng tunay na tinapay na galing sa langit. Sapagkat ang tinapay na galing sa Diyos ay ang bumabâ mula sa langit at nagbibigay-buhay sa sangkatauhan.”

 

Sumagot sila, “Ginoo, bigyan po ninyo kaming lagi ng tinapay na ito.”

 

Sinabi ni Jesus, “Ako ang tinapay ng buhay. Ang lumalapit sa akin ay hindi na magugutom kailanman, at ang sumasampalataya sa akin ay hindi na mauuhaw kailanman.

 

 

 

MAY 3, 2017

 

Reading 1 1 COR 15:1-8

I am reminding you, brothers and sisters, of the Gospel I preached to you, which you indeed received and in which you also stand. Through it you are also being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you, unless you believed in vain. For I handed on to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures; that he was buried; that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures; that he appeared to Cephas, then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred brothers and sisters at once, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. After that he appeared to James, then to all the Apostles. Last of all, as to one born abnormally, he appeared to me.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 19:2-3, 4-5

R. Their message goes out through all the earth.

 

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day pours out the word to day; and night to night imparts knowledge.

R. Their message goes out through all the earth.

 

Not a word nor a discourse whose voice is not heard; Through all the earth their voice resounds, and to the ends of the world, their message.

R. Their message goes out through all the earth.

 

Alleluia JN 14:6B, 9C

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

I am the way, the truth, and the life, says the Lord; Philip, whoever has seen me has seen the Father.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 14:6-14

Jesus said to Thomas, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you know me, then you will also know my Father. From now on you do know him and have seen him." Philip said to him, "Master, show us the Father, and that will be enough for us." Jesus said to him, "Have I been with you for so long a time and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, 'Show us the Father'? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on my own. The Father who dwells in me is doing his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else, believe because of the works themselves. Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these, because I am going to the Father. And whatever you ask in my name, I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it."

 

 

 

Unang Pagbasa 1 Cor 15, 1-8

Mga kapatid, ngayo'y ipinapaalala ko sa inyo ang Magandang Balitang ipinangaral ko sa inyo. Iyan ang Magandang Balitang inyong tinanggap at naging saligan ng inyong pananampalataya. Naliligtas kayo sa pamamagitan nito, kung matatag ninyong pinanghahawakan ang salitang ipinangaral ko sa inyo; maliban na lamang kung walang kabuluhan ang inyong pagsampalataya.

 

Sapagkat ibinigay ko sa inyo bilang pinakamahalaga sa lahat ang tinanggap ko rin: na si Cristo'y namatay dahil sa ating mga kasalanan, tulad ng sinasabi sa Kasulatan; inilibing siya at muling nabuhay sa ikatlong araw, tulad din ng sinasabi sa Kasulatan; at siya'y nagpakita kay Pedro, at saka sa Labindalawa. Pagkatapos, nagpakita siya sa mahigit na limandaang kapatid na nagkakatipon. Marami sa kanila'y buháy pa hanggang ngayon, subalit patay na ang ilan. At nagpakita rin siya kay Santiago at pagkatapos ay sa lahat ng mga apostol.

 

Sa kahuli-huliha'y nagpakita rin siya sa akin, kahit na ako'y tulad ng isang batang ipinanganak nang wala sa panahon.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 14, 6-14

Sumagot si Jesus, “Ako ang daan, ang katotohanan, at ang buhay. Walang makakapunta sa Ama kundi sa pamamagitan ko. Kung ako'y kilala ninyo,[a] kilala na rin ninyo ang aking Ama. Mula ngayon ay kilala na ninyo siya at inyo nang nakita.”

 

Sinabi sa kanya ni Felipe, “Panginoon, ipakita po ninyo sa amin ang Ama at masisiyahan na kami.”

 

Sumagot si Jesus, “Kay tagal na ninyo akong kasama, hanggang ngayo'y hindi mo pa ako kilala, Felipe? Ang nakakita sa akin ay nakakita na sa Ama. Bakit mo sinasabing ‘Ipakita mo sa amin ang Ama’? Hindi ka ba naniniwalang ako'y nasa Ama at ang Ama ay nasa akin? Hindi sa akin galing ang sinasabi ko sa inyo. Ngunit ang Ama na nananatili sa akin ang siyang gumaganap ng kanyang gawain. Maniwala kayo sa akin; ako'y nasa Ama at ang Ama ay nasa akin. Kung ayaw ninyong maniwala sa sinasabi ko, maniwala kayo dahil sa mga ginagawa ko. Pakatandaan ninyo: ang nananalig sa akin ay makakagawa ng mga ginagawa ko, at higit pa kaysa rito, sapagkat babalik na ako sa Ama. At anumang hilingin ninyo sa pangalan ko ay gagawin ko upang luwalhatiin ang Ama sa pamamagitan ng Anak. Kung hihiling kayo ng anuman sa pangalan ko, ito ay aking gagawin.”

 

 

 

MAY 4, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 8:26-40

The angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, "Get up and head south on the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza, the desert route." So he got up and set out. Now there was an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of the Candace, that is, the queen of the Ethiopians, in charge of her entire treasury, who had come to Jerusalem to worship, and was returning home. Seated in his chariot, he was reading the prophet Isaiah. The Spirit said to Philip, "Go and join up with that chariot." Philip ran up and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and said, "Do you understand what you are reading?" He replied, "How can I, unless someone instructs me?" So he invited Philip to get in and sit with him. This was the Scripture passage he was reading:

 

Like a sheep he was led to the slaughter, and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he opened not his mouth. In his humiliation justice was denied him. Who will tell of his posterity? For his life is taken from the earth.

 

Then the eunuch said to Philip in reply, "I beg you, about whom is the prophet saying this? About himself, or about someone else?" Then Philip opened his mouth and, beginning with this Scripture passage, he proclaimed Jesus to him. As they traveled along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, "Look, there is water. What is to prevent my being baptized?" Then he ordered the chariot to stop, and Philip and the eunuch both went down into the water, and he baptized him. When they came out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away, and the eunuch saw him no more, but continued on his way rejoicing. Philip came to Azotus, and went about proclaiming the good news to all the towns until he reached Caesarea.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 66:8-9, 16-17, 20

R. Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.

 

Bless our God, you peoples, loudly sound his praise; He has given life to our souls, and has not let our feet slip.

R. Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.

 

Hear now, all you who fear God, while I declare what he has done for me. When I appealed to him in words, praise was on the tip of my tongue.

R. Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.

 

Blessed be God who refused me not my prayer or his kindness!

R. Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.

 

Alleluia JN 6:51

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

I am the living bread that came down from heaven, says the Lord; whoever eats this bread will live forever.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 6:44-51

Jesus said to the crowds: "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draw him, and I will raise him on the last day. It is written in the prophets:

 

They shall all be taught by God.

 

Everyone who listens to my Father and learns from him comes to me. Not that anyone has seen the Father except the one who is from God; he has seen the Father. Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your ancestors ate the manna in the desert, but they died; this is the bread that comes down from heaven so that one may eat it and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my Flesh for the life of the world."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 8, 26-40

Pagkatapos, sinabi ng isang anghel ng Panginoon kay Felipe, “Pumunta ka sa gawing timog sa daang mula sa Jerusalem papuntang Gaza.” Halos hindi na iyon dinadaanan ngayon. Pumunta nga doon si Felipe. Samantala, isang eunuko na pinunong taga-Etiopia, na ingat-yaman ng Candace, reyna ng Etiopia, ang nagtungo sa Jerusalem upang sumamba at pauwi na noon, nakasakay sa kanyang karwahe at nagbabasa ng aklat ni Propeta Isaias. “Sabayan mo ang sasakyang iyon,” utos ng Espiritu kay Felipe. Kaya patakbong lumapit si Felipe at narinig niyang binabasa ng pinuno ang aklat ni Propeta Isaias. Tinanong ni Felipe ang pinuno, “Nauunawaan ba ninyo ang inyong binabasa?”

 

Sagot naman nito, “Paano ko mauunawaan ito kung walang magpapaliwanag sa akin?” At si Felipe ay inanyayahan niyang sumakay sa karwahe at umupo sa kanyang tabi. Ito ang bahagi ng kasulatang binabasa niya:

 

“Siya ay tulad ng isang tupang dinadala sa katayan;

 

    tulad ng isang korderong hindi tumututol kahit na gupitan.

 

    At hindi umiimik kahit kaunti man.

 

Siya'y hinamak at pinagkaitan ng katarungan.

 

    Walang sinumang makapagsasalaysay tungkol sa kanyang angkan,

 

    sapagkat kinitil nila ang kanyang buhay.”

 

Nagtanong kay Felipe ang pinuno, “Sabihin mo nga sa akin, sino ba ang tinutukoy dito ng propeta? Sarili ba niya o iba?”

 

Simula sa kasulatang ito ay isinalaysay sa kanya ni Felipe ang Magandang Balita tungkol kay Jesus. Nagpatuloy sila sa paglalakbay, at dumating sa isang lugar na may tubig. Kaya't sinabi ng pinuno, “Tingnan mo, may tubig dito! Mayroon bang hadlang upang ako'y bautismuhan?” Sinabi sa kanya ni Felipe, “Maaari, kung sumasampalataya ka nang buong puso.” Sumagot ang pinuno, “Sumasampalataya ako na si Jesu-Cristo ang Anak ng Diyos!”

 

Pinatigil ng pinuno ang karwahe, lumusong silang dalawa sa tubig at binautismuhan siya ni Felipe. Pagkaahon nila sa tubig, si Felipe ay kinuha ng Espiritu ng Panginoon at hindi na siya nakita pa ng pinuno. Ang pinuno ay tuwang-tuwang nagpatuloy sa paglalakbay. Namalayan na lamang ni Felipe na siya'y nasa Azoto. Mula roon, ipinangaral niya ang Magandang Balita tungkol kay Jesus sa lahat ng bayang dinaraanan niya hanggang sa marating niya ang Cesarea.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 6, 44-51

Walang makakalapit sa akin malibang dalhin siya sa akin ng Ama na nagsugo sa akin. At ang lumalapit sa akin ay muli kong bubuhayin sa huling araw. Nasusulat sa aklat ng mga propeta, ‘At silang lahat ay tuturuan ng Diyos.’ Ang bawat nakikinig sa Ama at natututo sa kanya ay lumalapit sa akin. Hindi ito nangangahulugang may nakakita na sa Ama; ang nagmula sa Diyos ang tanging nakakita sa Ama. Pakatandaan ninyo: ang sumasampalataya sa akin ay may buhay na walang hanggan. Ako ang tinapay ng buhay. Kumain ng manna ang inyong mga ninuno nang sila'y nasa ilang, ngunit sila'y namatay. Narito ang tinapay na bumabâ mula sa langit upang ang sinumang kumain nito ay hindi na mamatay. Ako nga ang tinapay na nagbibigay-buhay na bumabâ mula sa langit. Mabubuhay magpakailanman ang sinumang kumain ng tinapay na ito. At ang tinapay na ibibigay ko upang mabuhay ang sanlibutan ay ang aking laman.”

 

 

 

MAY 5, 2017

 

Reading 1 ACTS 9:1-20

Saul, still breathing murderous threats against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, that, if he should find any men or women who belonged to the Way, he might bring them back to Jerusalem in chains. On his journey, as he was nearing Damascus, a light from the sky suddenly flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" He said, "Who are you, sir?" The reply came, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. Now get up and go into the city and you will be told what you must do." The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, for they heard the voice but could see no one. Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing; so they led him by the hand and brought him to Damascus. For three days he was unable to see, and he neither ate nor drank.

 

There was a disciple in Damascus named Ananias, and the Lord said to him in a vision, "Ananias." He answered, "Here I am, Lord." The Lord said to him, "Get up and go to the street called Straight and ask at the house of Judas for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is there praying, and in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him, that he may regain his sight." But Ananias replied, "Lord, I have heard from many sources about this man, what evil things he has done to your holy ones in Jerusalem. And here he has authority from the chief priests to imprison all who call upon your name." But the Lord said to him, "Go, for this man is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before Gentiles, kings, and children of Israel, and I will show him what he will have to suffer for my name." So Ananias went and entered the house; laying his hands on him, he said, "Saul, my brother, the Lord has sent me, Jesus who appeared to you on the way by which you came, that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit." Immediately things like scales fell from his eyes and he regained his sight. He got up and was baptized, and when he had eaten, he recovered his strength.

 

He stayed some days with the disciples in Damascus, and he began at once to proclaim Jesus in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 117:1BC, 2

R. Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.

 

Praise the LORD, all you nations; glorify him, all you peoples!

R. Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.

 

For steadfast is his kindness toward us, and the fidelity of the LORD endures forever.

R. Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.

 

Alleluia JN 6:56

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Whoever eats my Flesh and drinks my Blood, remains in me and I in him, says the Lord.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 6:52-59

The Jews quarreled among themselves, saying, "How can this man give us his Flesh to eat?" Jesus said to them, "Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the Flesh of the Son of Man and drink his Blood, you do not have life within you. Whoever eats my Flesh and drinks my Blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day. For my Flesh is true food, and my Blood is true drink. Whoever eats my Flesh and drinks my Blood remains in me and I in him. Just as the living Father sent me and I have life because of the Father, so also the one who feeds on me will have life because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven. Unlike your ancestors who ate and still died, whoever eats this bread will live forever." These things he said while teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum.

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 9, 1-20

Samantala, patuloy ang pagbabanta ni Saulo na maipapatay ang mga alagad ng Panginoon. Lumapit siya sa Pinakapunong Pari ng mga Judio at humingi ng mga sulat para sa mga sinagoga sa Damasco upang madakip niya at madala sa Jerusalem ang sinumang lalaki o babae na matagpuan niya roong kaanib sa Daan ng Panginoon.

 

Naglakbay si Saulo papuntang Damasco, at nang siya'y malapit na sa lungsod, biglang kumislap sa paligid niya ang isang nakakasilaw na liwanag mula sa langit. Natumba siya sa lupa at narinig niya ang isang tinig na nagsasabi, “Saulo, Saulo! Bakit mo ako inuusig?”

 

“Sino kayo, Panginoon?” tanong niya.

 

“Ako si Jesus, ang iyong inuusig,” tugon ng tinig sa kanya. .“Tumayo ka't pumasok sa lungsod, at doo'y sasabihin sa iyo kung ano ang dapat mong gawin.”

 

Natigilan at hindi makapagsalita ang mga kasama ni Saulo nang marinig nila ang tinig ngunit wala naman silang makitang nagsasalita. Tumayo si Saulo at pagmulat niya ay hindi siya makakita, kaya't siya'y inakay ng mga kasama niya at dinala sa Damasco. Hindi siya nakakita sa loob ng tatlong araw at hindi rin siya kumain ni uminom.

 

Sa Damasco ay may isang alagad na ang pangala'y Ananias. Tinawag siya ng Panginoon sa pamamagitan ng isang pangitain, “Ananias!”

 

“Ano po iyon, Panginoon,” tugon niya.

 

Sinabi ng Panginoon, “Pumunta ka sa kalyeng tinatawag na Tuwid, sa bahay ni Judas, at ipagtanong mo ang isang lalaking taga-Tarso na ang pangala'y Saulo. Siya'y nananalangin ngayon. Sa isang pangitain, nakita ka niyang pumasok sa kinaroroonan niya at pinatungan mo siya ng kamay upang siya'y makakitang muli.”

 

Sumagot si Ananias, “Panginoon, marami na po akong nabalitaan tungkol sa taong ito at sa mga kasamaang ginawa niya sa inyong mga hinirang sa Jerusalem. At naparito siya sa Damasco, taglay ang kapangyarihang galing sa mga punong pari ng mga Judio, upang dakpin ang lahat ng tumatawag sa iyong pangalan.”

 

Ngunit sinabi sa kanya ng Panginoon, “Pumunta ka roon, sapagkat siya'y pinili ko upang ipakilala ang aking pangalan sa mga Hentil, sa mga hari, at sa mga anak ng Israel. Ipapakita ko sa kanya ang lahat ng dapat niyang tiisin alang-alang sa akin.”

 

Pumunta nga si Ananias sa naturang bahay at pumasok dito. Ipinatong niya ang kanyang mga kamay kay Saulo at sinabi niya, “Kapatid na Saulo, pinapunta ako rito ng Panginoong Jesus na nagpakita sa iyo sa daan nang ikaw ay papunta rito. Isinugo niya ako upang muli kang makakita at upang mapuspos ka ng Espiritu Santo.” Noon di'y may nalaglag na tila mga kaliskis mula sa mga mata ni Saulo at nakakita siyang muli. Tumayo siya at nagpabautismo. Kumain siya at nagbalik ang kanyang lakas.

 

Si Saulo'y ilang araw na kasa-kasama ng mga alagad sa Damasco. At agad siyang nangaral sa mga sinagoga na si Jesus ang Anak ng Diyos.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 6, 52-59

Dahil dito'y nagtalu-talo ang mga Judio, “Paanong maibibigay sa atin ng taong ito ang kanyang laman upang makain natin?”

 

Sinabi ni Jesus, “Pakatandaan ninyo: malibang kainin ninyo ang laman ng Anak ng Tao at inumin ang kanyang dugo, hindi kayo magkakaroon ng buhay. Ang kumakain ng aking laman at umiinom ng aking dugo ay may buhay na walang hanggan at muli ko siyang bubuhayin sa huling araw. Sapagkat ang aking laman ay tunay na pagkain, at ang aking dugo ay tunay na inumin. Ang kumakain ng aking laman at umiinom ng aking dugo ay nananatili sa akin, at ako naman sa kanya. Isinugo ako ng buháy na Ama at ako'y nabubuhay dahil sa kanya. Gayundin naman, ang sinumang kumakain sa akin ay mabubuhay dahil sa akin. Ito ang tinapay na bumabâ mula sa langit. Hindi ito katulad ng kinain ng inyong mga ninuno sa ilang; namatay sila kahit na kumain niyon. Ang kumakain ng tinapay na ito ay mabubuhay magpakailanman.”

 

Sinabi ito ni Jesus sa sinagoga habang siya'y nagtuturo sa Capernaum.

 

 

MAY 6, 2017

Reading 1 ACTS 9:31-42

The Church throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria was at peace. She was being built up and walked in the fear of the Lord, and with the consolation of the Holy Spirit she grew in numbers.

 

As Peter was passing through every region, he went down to the holy ones living in Lydda. There he found a man named Aeneas, who had been confined to bed for eight years, for he was paralyzed. Peter said to him, "Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and make your bed." He got up at once. And all the inhabitants of Lydda and Sharon saw him, and they turned to the Lord.

 

Now in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which translated is Dorcas). She was completely occupied with good deeds and almsgiving. Now during those days she fell sick and died, so after washing her, they laid her out in a room upstairs. Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him with the request, "Please come to us without delay." So Peter got up and went with them. When he arrived, they took him to the room upstairs where all the widows came to him weeping and showing him the tunics and cloaks that Dorcas had made while she was with them. Peter sent them all out and knelt down and prayed. Then he turned to her body and said, "Tabitha, rise up." She opened her eyes, saw Peter, and sat up. He gave her his hand and raised her up, and when he had called the holy ones and the widows, he presented her alive. This became known all over Joppa, and many came to believe in the Lord.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 116:12-13, 14-15, 16-17

R. How shall I make a return to the Lord for all the good he has done for me?

 

How shall I make a return to the LORD for all the good he has done for me? The cup of salvation I will take up, and I will call upon the name of the LORD

R. How shall I make a return to the Lord for all the good he has done for me?

 

My vows to the LORD I will pay in the presence of all his people. Precious in the eyes of the LORD is the death of his faithful ones.

R. How shall I make a return to the Lord for all the good he has done for me?

 

O LORD, I am your servant; I am your servant, the son of your handmaid; you have loosed my bonds. To you will I offer sacrifice of thanksgiving, and I will call upon the name of the LORD.

R. How shall I make a return to the Lord for all the good he has done for me?

 

Alleluia SEE JN 6:63C, 68C

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of everlasting life.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 6:60-69

Many of the disciples of Jesus who were listening said, "This saying is hard; who can accept it?" Since Jesus knew that his disciples were murmuring about this, he said to them, "Does this shock you? What if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? It is the Spirit that gives life, while the flesh is of no avail. The words I have spoken to you are Spirit and life. But there are some of you who do not believe." Jesus knew from the beginning the ones who would not believe and the one who would betray him. And he said, "For this reason I have told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by my Father."

 

As a result of this, many of his disciples returned to their former way of life and no longer walked with him. Jesus then said to the Twelve, "Do you also want to leave?" Simon Peter answered him, "Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 9, 31-42

Kaya't ang iglesya sa buong Judea, Galilea at Samaria ay naging mapayapa at matatag. At patuloy silang namuhay na may takot sa Panginoon, at sa tulong ng Espiritu Santo ay lumago sila.

 

Naglalakbay noon si Pedro sa mga bayan-bayan upang dalawin ang mga hinirang ng Panginoon. Pagdating niya sa Lida, natagpuan niya roon ang isang lalaking nagngangalang Eneas. Ito'y isang paralitiko at walong taon nang nakaratay. Sinabi ni Pedro sa kanya, “Eneas, pinapagaling ka ni Jesu-Cristo. Tumayo ka't iligpit mo ang iyong higaan!”

 

At agad siyang tumayo. Nakita siya ng lahat ng naninirahan sa Lida at Saron, at sila'y sumunod sa Panginoon.

 

Sa Joppa naman ay may isang alagad na babae na ang pangalan ay Tabita. Sa wikang Griego, ang kanyang pangalan ay Dorcas. Ginugol niya ang kanyang panahon sa paggawa ng kabutihan at pagkakawanggawa. Nang mga araw na iyon, nagkasakit siya at namatay. Nilinis ang kanyang bangkay at ibinurol ito sa silid sa itaas. Malapit lang sa Joppa ang Lida. Kaya't nang mabalitaan ng mga alagad na si Pedro ay nasa Lida, nagsugo sila ng dalawang lalaki upang siya'y pakiusapang pumunta agad sa Joppa. Sumama naman sa kanila si Pedro, at pagdating doon, dinala siya sa silid sa itaas. Kaagad lumapit sa kanya ang lahat ng mga biyuda; umiiyak sila at ipinapakita ang mga damit at mga balabal na ginawa ni Dorcas para sa kanila noong ito'y nabubuhay pa. Pinalabas ni Pedro ang lahat at siya'y lumuhod at nanalangin. Pagkatapos, humarap siya sa bangkay at sinabi, “Tabita, bumangon ka!” Dumilat si Tabita at naupo nang makita nito si Pedro. Hinawakan ni Pedro ang kanyang kamay at tinulungang bumangon. Pagkatapos, tinawag niya ang mga hinira

ng ng Panginoon at ang mga biyuda, at iniharap sa kanila si Dorcas na buháy na. Ang pangyayaring ito'y nabalita sa buong Joppa kaya't marami ang sumampalataya sa Panginoon

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 6, 60-69

Narinig ito ng kanyang mga alagad at marami sa kanila ang nagsabi, “Mabigat na pananalita ito; sino ang makakatanggap nito?”

 

Kahit walang nagsasabi kay Jesus, alam niya na nagbubulung-bulungan ang kanyang mga alagad tungkol dito. Kaya't sinabi niya, “Dahil ba rito'y tatalikuran na ninyo ako? Gaano pa kaya kung makita ninyong umaakyat ang Anak ng Tao papunta sa dati niyang kinaroroonan? Ang Espiritu ang nagbibigay-buhay; hindi ito magagawa ng laman. Ang mga salitang sinabi ko sa inyo ay espiritu at ito ang nagbibigay-buhay. Ngunit may ilan sa inyong hindi sumasampalataya.” Alam na ni Jesus buhat pa noong una kung sinu-sino ang hindi mananalig sa kanya, at kung sino ang magkakanulo sa kanya. Idinugtong pa niya, “Iyan ang dahilan kaya ko sinabi sa inyo na walang makakalapit sa akin malibang ito'y loobin ng Ama.”

 

Mula noo'y marami sa kanyang mga alagad ang tumalikod at hindi na sumama sa kanya. Tinanong ni Jesus ang Labindalawa, “At kayo, gusto rin ba ninyong umalis?”

 

Sumagot si Simon Pedro, “Panginoon, kanino pa po kami pupunta? Nasa inyo ang mga salitang nagbibigay ng buhay na walang hanggan. Naniniwala kami at natitiyak namin na kayo nga ang Banal na mula sa Diyos.”

 

 

MAY 7, 2017

Reading 1 ACTS 2:14A, 36-41

Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice, and proclaimed: "Let the whole house of Israel know for certain that God has made both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified."

 

Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and they asked Peter and the other apostles, "What are we to do, my brothers?" Peter said to them, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is made to you and to your children and to all those far off, whomever the Lord our God will call." He testified with many other arguments, and was exhorting them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand persons were added that day.

 

Responsorial Psalm PS 23: 1-3A, 3B4, 5, 6

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. In verdant pastures he gives me repose; beside restful waters he leads me; he refreshes my soul.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

He guides me in right paths for his name's sake. Even though I walk in the dark valley I fear no evil; for you are at my side. With your rod and your staff that give me courage.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

You spread the table before me in the sight of my foes; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

Only goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD for years to come.

R. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.

 

Reading 2 1 PT 2:20B-25

Beloved: If you are patient when you suffer for doing what is good, this is a grace before God. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example that you should follow in his footsteps. He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.

 

When he was insulted, he returned no insult; when he suffered, he did not threaten; instead, he handed himself over to the one who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body upon the cross, so that, free from sin, we might live for righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you had gone astray like sheep, but you have now returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls.

 

Alleluia JN 10:14

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

I am the good shepherd, says the Lord; I know my sheep, and mine know me.

R. Alleluia, alleluia.

 

Gospel JN 10:1-10

Jesus said: "Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever does not enter a sheepfold through the gate but climbs over elsewhere is a thief and a robber. But whoever enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens it for him, and the sheep hear his voice, as the shepherd calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has driven out all his own, he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him, because they recognize his voice. But they will not follow a stranger; they will run away from him, because they do not recognize the voice of strangers." Although Jesus used this figure of speech, the Pharisees did not realize what he was trying to tell them.

 

So Jesus said again, "Amen, amen, I say to you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. A thief comes only to steal and slaughter and destroy; I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly."

 

 

Unang Pagbasa Mga Gawa 2, 14. 36-41

Kaya't tumayo si Pedro, kasama ng labing-isang apostol, at nagsalita nang malakas, “Mga taga-Judea, at kayong lahat na nakatira sa Jerusalem, pakinggan ninyong mabuti ang sasabihin ko.

 

“Kaya't dapat malaman ng buong Israel na itong si Jesus na ipinako ninyo sa krus ay siyang ginawa ng Diyos na Panginoon at Cristo!”

 

Nabagabag ang kanilang kalooban nang marinig ito, kaya't tinanong nila si Pedro at ang ibang mga apostol, “Mga kapatid, ano ang dapat naming gawin?”

 

Sumagot si Pedro, “Pagsisihan ninyo't talikuran ang inyong mga kasalanan at magpabautismo kayo sa pangalan ni Jesu-Cristo upang kayo'y patawarin; at tatanggapin ninyo ang kaloob ng Espiritu Santo. Sapagkat ang pangako ay para sa inyo at sa inyong mga anak, at sa lahat ng nasa malayo, sa bawat taong tatawagin ng ating Panginoong Diyos.”

 

Marami pang inilahad si Pedro upang patunayan ang kanyang sinabi, at nanawagan siya sa kanila, “Iligtas ninyo ang inyong mga sarili mula sa parusang sasapitin ng masamang lahing ito.”

 

Kaya't ang mga naniwala sa ipinangaral niya ay nagpabautismo, at nadagdagan ang mga alagad ng may tatlong libong katao nang araw na iyon.

 

Ikalawang Pagbasa 1 Pedro 2, 20-25

Maipagmamalaki ba ang magtiis ng parusa kung ito ay dahil sa paggawa ng masama? Hindi! Ngunit kung magtiis kayo ng hirap sa kabila ng paggawa ninyo ng mabuti, pagpapalain kayo ng Diyos. Ang pagtitiis ng hirap ay bahagi ng pagkatawag sa inyo ng Diyos, sapagkat nang si Cristo ay magtiis para sa inyo, nag-iwan siya sa inyo ng isang halimbawa na dapat ninyong lubos na tularan. Hindi siya gumawa ng anumang kasalanan, o nagsinungaling kailanman. Nang siya'y insultuhin, hindi siya gumanti ng insulto. Nang siya'y pahirapan, hindi siya nagbanta; sa halip, ipinaubaya niya ang lahat sa Diyos na makatarungan kung humatol. Sa kanyang pagkamatay sa krus, pinasan niya ang ating mga kasalanan upang tayo'y mamatay na sa kasalanan at mamuhay nang ayon sa kalooban ng Diyos. Sa pamamagitan ng kanyang mga sugat, kayo'y pinagaling. Sapagkat kayo ay tulad ng mga tupang naligaw, ngunit ngayon kayo'y nanumbalik na upang sumunod sa Pastol at Tagapangalaga ng inyong mga kaluluwa.

 

Mabuting Balita Juan 10, 1-10

“Tandaan ninyo ito: ang pumapasok sa kulungan ng mga tupa nang hindi sa pinto nagdaraan, kundi umaakyat sa di dapat pagdaanan ay magnanakaw at tulisan. Ngunit ang nagdaraan sa pintuan ay siyang pastol ng mga tupa. Pinapapasok siya ng bantay, at pinapakinggan ng mga tupa ang kanyang tinig. Tinatawag niya ang kanyang mga tupa sa kani-kanilang pangalan, at inilalabas sa kulungan. Kapag nailabas na, siya'y nangunguna sa kanila at sumusunod naman ang mga ito sapagkat kilala nila ang kanyang tinig. Hindi sila susunod sa iba, kundi tatakbong palayo, sapagkat hindi nila kilala ang tinig ng iba.”

 

Sinabi ni Jesus ang paglalarawang ito ngunit hindi nila naunawaan ang ibig niyang sabihin.

 

Kaya't muling sinabi ni Jesus, “Pakatandaan ninyo: ako ang pintuang dinaraanan ng mga tupa. Ang mga nauna sa akin ay mga magnanakaw at mga tulisan, ngunit hindi sila pinakinggan ng mga tupa. Ako ang pintuan. Ang sinumang pumapasok sa pamamagitan ko'y maliligtas. Papasok siya't lalabas, at makakatagpo ng pastulan. Dumarating ang magnanakaw para lamang magnakaw, pumatay, at manira. Naparito ako upang ang mga tupa ay magkaroon ng buhay, buhay na masaganang lubos.