Mass Readings and Reflection Second Sunday of Advent

First Reading: (Isaiah 11:1–10)

A shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse…
Isaiah offers a powerful prophecy of the Messiah, a ruler filled with the Spirit of wisdom, justice, and peace. The “peaceable kingdom” he describes reminds us of God’s desire to bring harmony where there is division, healing where there is brokenness, and renewal where all seems lost.

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 72:1–2, 7–8, 12–13, 17)

Response: Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace forever.

Second Reading: (Romans 15:4–9)

Whatever was written previously was written for our instruction…
St. Paul encourages us to draw hope from Scripture. Christ has welcomed us, and in that same spirit, we are called to live in unity and encouragement. Our preparation during Advent is not solitary, we walk together as a people awaiting the coming of the Lord.

Gospel: (Matthew 3:1–12)

John the Baptist appeared, preaching in the desert of Judea…
John the Baptist’s voice breaks the silence of the desert with a clear call: Repent. Prepare the way of the Lord.
His message is both urgent and merciful: the Lord is near, and our hearts must be ready.

Reflection

Today at Mass, the second candle of the Advent wreath was lit, a symbol of faith, hope, and the growing light of Christ drawing nearer. The atmosphere of the liturgy reflected this season beautifully: a time not just of anticipation, but of interior preparation and spiritual awakening. The priest emphasized how preparation for Christmas doesn't mean,  decorations, shopping and consuming. But a preparation within for the season. 

The mass readings invite us into a season of hopeful transformation.
Isaiah’s vision reminds us that God rebuilds what seems destroyed, He levels mountains, straightens crooked paths, and restores what we thought was beyond saving. No obstacle is too great for His mercy.

In the Gospel, John the Baptist urges us to make room for Christ by clearing away the inner clutter that weighs down our souls: pride, resentment, fear, bitterness, and the habits that distance us from God. Advent is not a passive countdown to Christmas, it is a sacred time where God asks us to actively cooperate with His grace.

This preparation is both personal and communal.
We prepare our own hearts, yes, but we also prepare the world around us through acts of love. Every time we practice patience, show kindness, offer forgiveness, or give generously, we participate in God’s work of making the rough ways smooth.

The psalm’s plea-“Lord, let us see your kindness”-is fulfilled each time we reveal God’s love through our daily actions. And St. Paul reminds us that God’s timing is always perfect; His patience is our salvation. Advent teaches us to wait with trust, hope, and courage, even when life feels uncertain or the path ahead unclear.

May this second week of Advent deepen our longing for Christ and renew our desire to prepare Him a worthy dwelling place in our hearts.

God bless,
Pal Ronnie

On America 🇺🇸

This is America

Home of the brave. 

We don't cower. 

God is with us.

Alleluia 🙌 

Mass Reading and Reflection on Saturday, December 6, 2025.

First Reading

Isaiah: (30:19-21, 23-26)

Responsorial Psalm:

(Psalm 147)
Response: Blessed are all those who wait for the Lord.

Gospel Reading: (Matthew 9:35–10:1, 5–8)

At that time, Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and infirmity. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”

Jesus called his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and infirmity. He sent them out, charging them: “Go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel, and preach as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without pay, give without pay.”

Reflection

In the Gospel today’s, we saw Jesus commissioning his apostles to minister to the “lost sheep of Israel,” empowering them to heal, deliver, and restore life. Their mission was clear: to bring joy, consolation, and hope.

From the very beginning, Jesus moved with compassion. He healed the sick, lifted burdens, and brought joy to the afflicted. His ministry exemplified what it means to be a source of light and life to others.

As we prepare for Christmas during this Advent season, we are called to imitate Christ’s example. By our words, deeds, and presence, we are to bearers of joy. Wherever we are, at home, at work, in public service, or in our communities, we must ask ourselves:

• Do I bring joy or pain to those around me?

• Do people smile because of my generosity, kindness, or ministry?

• Can my actions bring consolation to those in sorrow or distress?

Jesus and his apostles healed, raised the dead, cleansed, and cast out demons, acts that brought visible and spiritual joy. We, too, are called to minister in ways that transform lives, even in small but meaningful ways.

Let us pray for the grace to be a source of joy this Christmas, to console the sorrowful, lift the distressed, and bring hope to the despairing. May our lives reflect Christ’s love so that others may smile and rejoice because of our presence and actions.

Amen 

God bless you 

Pal Ronnie 

Mass Readings and Reflection: Friday, December 5, 2025

First Reading: (Isaiah 29:17-24)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 27)

Response: The Lord is my light and my salvation.

Alleluia:

R. Alleluia, Alleluia.
Stir up your power, O Lord, and come.
R. Alleluia, Alleluia.

Gospel: (Matthew 9:27-31)

As Jesus passed by, two blind men followed him, crying out,
“Have mercy on us, Son of David.”

When Jesus entered the house, the blind men approached him, and Jesus said,
“Do you believe that I am able to do this?”

They answered, “Yes, Lord.”

Then he touched their eyes and said,
“According to your faith be it done unto you.”
And their eyes were opened.

Jesus warned them sternly, “See that no one knows about this.”
But they went out and spread his fame throughout that district.

Reflection:

This is one powerful Gospel reading today. It teaches us that faith has many characteristics, but one of the most essential is perseverance. Genuine faith endures, waits, and refuses to be rushed. Faith and impatience cannot coexist. Anyone who believes must learn to wait on God, because faith is proven when we trust God even when nothing seems to be happening.

Abraham believed and waited many long years for Isaac. Israel believed and waited centuries for deliverance. Faith is not tested by how loudly we pray, but by how long we are willing to trust.

In today’s Gospel, two blind men cry out, “Son of David, have mercy on us!” But Jesus does not heal them immediately. He keeps walking. They follow Him, blind, slow, vulnerable, perhaps stumbling, perhaps guided by others, and yet they did not give up.

This detail is easy to overlook, but it reveals the true depth of their faith. They followed Jesus all the way to the house, even though Jesus gave no sign He would heal them. They could have thought:

• “Jesus is ignoring us.”

• “Maybe He doesn’t care about us.”

• “Maybe next time.when He feels good to do so.”

And we can add our own projections here. 

But no, they persevered. This is why Jesus later asks, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” Their actions had already answered the question long before their mouths did.

Dear friends, late cooking doesn't mean sleeping hunger as we used to say back in the day. And delay is not denial. It is God testing, strengthening, and purifying our faith. Many of us give up too quickly especially in this day is mass impatience:

• You prayed for years and see no change. Done.

• You asked for healing and the illness remains. Done.

• You begged for breakthrough and doors stayed shut. Done.

Delay is not God’s rejection. Sometimes what we request is not His will. Sometimes the timing is not yet right. Sometimes the blessing requires that our faith mature first. Even think about the fact that if we get whatever we want right away, it could ruin us?

Even unanswered prayers are answered in God’s higher wisdom. Faith is trusting that what God does not give is because He knows what is best.

Let the two blind men teach us endurance. Do not stop following Jesus. Do not abandon your prayer. Do not allow discouragement to silence your faith. Keep walking, even blindly, even slowly, even painfully, until you reach the house where Jesus waits.

Delay is not denial. It is a test of faith. Can God test His own? 

God bless you 🙏 

Amen 

Pal Ronnie 

Mass Reading and Reflection December 4th 2025

First Reading: (Isaiah 26:1-6)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 118): “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”

Alleluia: (Isaiah 55:6)
“Seek the Lord while he may be found; call him while he is near.”

Gospel: (Matthew 7:21, 24-27)
Not everyone who says “Lord, Lord”

Reflection:
Humans are weak and helpless creatures. Every day I see the sick and dying. Nobody wants to be sick and nobody wants to die. Yet sickness strikes and death comes-all against our will or control. Who is man then? That is why God is good, and our faith and trust in Him shouldn't waver for anything on this earth. Today’s Mass readings remind us that faith is not just words but lived trust in God. Isaiah speaks of a strong city built on justice and trust in the Lord, while Jesus warns that only those who do the Father’s will enter the Kingdom. The wise person builds life on the solid rock of Christ’s teaching, not on shifting sands of convenience or pride.

In the Psalms, Judah sings of a strong city protected by God.
The gates open for a just nation that keeps faith.
God is described as the eternal Rock, humbling the lofty and raising up the poor.
Emphasis on trusting God rather than human power.
The gates of justice open for the righteous; salvation and prosperity come from the Lord.
Not all who profess will enter heaven, but those who do the Father’s will.
The wise build on rock (obedience to Christ’s words); the foolish build on sand (empty words without action).
Storms test foundations-only lives rooted in God endure.

Reflection
Advent is a season of preparation, and today’s readings challenge us to examine our foundations. Do we merely profess faith, or do we live it out in justice, mercy, and obedience? Isaiah’s vision of a strong city echoes Jesus’ parable: both point to stability found only in God.

Trust in the Lord as the eternal Rock: Human power and pride crumble, but God’s justice endures.
Faith requires action: Saying “Lord” is not enough; discipleship means aligning our choices with His will.
Advent invitation: Seek the Lord while He is near, opening the gates of our hearts to His presence.

In practical terms, this reflection calls us to build our daily lives on prayer, integrity, and service. When storms of doubt, suffering, or temptation come, those anchored in Christ will stand firm.

God bless you, and have a wonderful day.
Pal Ronnie

Nice Moonlight Today

 EPIC Moonlight and it's not even 5pm yet. Amazing 

Mass Readings today Dec 3rd, 2025, and the Memorial of Saint Francis Xavier, Priest

First Reading: (Isaiah 25:6-10a)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6)

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

Gospel: (Matthew 15:29-37)

Today’s readings remind us of the urgency and beauty of proclaiming the Gospel. In Isaiah, we hear a vision of peace and restoration, a promise that God will never abandon His people. The Gospel from Matthew shows Jesus’ deep compassion as He heals and feeds the crowds, revealing the heart of God as a shepherd who cares for His flock.

Saint Francis Xavier, whose memorial we celebrate today, lived this mission with extraordinary zeal. He traveled to distant lands, often in hardship, to share Christ’s love. His life challenges us: Are we willing to step out of our comfort zones to bring hope to others? Evangelization isn’t always about traveling across oceans, it begins in our homes, workplaces, and communities. A kind word, a listening ear, or an act of mercy can be a powerful witness.

As Advent continues, let’s ask: How can I prepare the way for Christ in someone’s life today? Perhaps through prayer for those who feel lost, or by offering encouragement to someone burdened. Like Francis Xavier, may we trust that God equips us for the mission He gives us.

Prayer:

Lord, give me the courage and love of Saint Francis Xavier. Help me to see the needs around me and respond with faith and compassion. May my life proclaim Your goodness today. 

Amen.

Pal Ronnie

Mass Readings and Reflection

First Reading: (Isaiah 11:1–10)

Isaiah prophesies the rise of a righteous ruler from the line of Jesse, one filled with the Spirit of the Lord: wisdom, understanding, counsel, strength, knowledge, and fear of the Lord. Under his reign, justice and peace will transform the world, and harmony will exist even among natural enemies.

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 72)

Response: “Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace for ever.”

Alleluia:

R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Behold, our Lord shall come with power;
he will enlighten the eyes of his servants.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel: (Luke 10:21–24)

Jesus rejoices in the Holy Spirit and praises the Father for revealing divine truths not to the proud and learned, but to the humble and childlike. He reminds His disciples of the blessedness of witnessing what prophets and kings longed to see.

Reflection

Today is already the seco,nd day of the last month of the year, 2025, and the liturgy invites us into a deep Advent posture: hope, humility, and readiness.

1. Hope in God’s Promise

Isaiah’s vision is a portrait of a world renewed, one where justice reigns and peace flourishes, where even enemies dwell together in harmony. Advent is the season that calls us to hope again, to believe that Christ comes to restore all things broken within us and around us.

2. Humility and Childlike Faith

In the Gospel, Jesus reveals a profound truth: those who are humble and childlike are the ones who truly receive God’s mysteries. Advent invites us to loosen our grip on pride, self-sufficiency, and intellectual arrogance, and instead approach God with simplicity, openness, and trust.

3. Living Justice and Peace

The Psalm reminds us that the Messiah’s reign is marked by justice, especially for the poor and afflicted. As we prepare for Christmas, we are called not just to admire Christ’s compassion, but to imitate it:

• advocating for the vulnerable,

• defending the oppressed,

• spreading peace through our words, choices, and relationships.

Questions for the Heart

• Are we preparing my hearts with humility and hope this Advent?

• How can we be an instrument of justice and peace in our daily interactions?

Sometimes, God’s greatest revelations come when we quiet our hearts, when we choose trust over control, and humility over pride. Like children, may we open our hearts to the One who comes to save us.

Amen 🙏 

God bless you 

Pal Ronnie 

December 1st Reflection

First Reading: (Isaiah 4:2–6)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 122:1–9)

Response: Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.

Alleluia: (Psalm 80:4)

Response: Alleluia, alleluia.
“Come and save us, LORD our God; let your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.”

Gospel: (Matthew 8:5–11)
A Roman centurion approaches Jesus, asking for healing for his paralyzed servant. He humbly declares, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed.” Jesus marvels at his faith, greater than any in Israel, and foretells that many from east and west will join Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the heavenly banquet.

Reflection

We are officially in the season of Advent and the the readings today highlight faith, holiness, and God’s protective presence. The prophet Isaiah reminds us that God purifies His people and shelters them with His glory. Advent is a time of cleansing and preparation as we await Christ’s coming.

• The Psalm calls us to rejoice in God’s dwelling, echoing the Advent theme of longing for the New Jerusalem, the fullness of God’s kingdom.

• The Gospel shows the centurion’s extraordinary faith. He recognizes Jesus’ authority and trusts His word completely. His humility, “I am not worthy”, is echoed in the words we pray at every Mass before Communion.

Advent invites us to deepen our trust in Christ’s word. Like the centurion, we are called to approach Jesus with humility and confidence, believing that His presence brings healing and salvation. God’s glory is not distant, it is our shelter, our peace, and our hope.

God bless you.

Pal Ronnie 

Sunday November 30th 2025

Today is the First Sunday of Advent

First Reading: (Isaiah 2:1-5)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 122)

Response: We shall go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.

Alleluia: (Luke 21:36)

“Be vigilant and pray, that you may have strength to stand before the Son of Man.”

Gospel: (Matthew 24:37-44)

Reflection 

Today at mass, the priest mentioned that today is the beginning of the season of Advent, Adventus, the “coming.” New calendar church year began. And over the next 25 days, the Church is inviting us to prepare for Christ who comes to us at Christmas, who comes to us daily in grace, and who will come again in glory.

During this time, two great figures guide our preparation: Isaiah and John the Baptist. Their message is simple and urgent:
“The Savior is coming. Prepare the way of the Lord.”

1. The Mountain of the Lord, A Place of Joy and Blessing

Isaiah speaks of God’s house as a mountain that draws people from every nation, because in God’s presence there is:

• joy

• peace

• healing

• fulfillment

• blessing

Advent calls us to ascend that mountain with open hearts. God is inviting us into His presence, into His joy.

2. The Time Is Now

St. Paul reminds us: “It is full time to wake from sleep.”
Advent is not passive waiting, it is an active awakening. Paul calls us to cast off darkness and put on the armor of light.

He warns against:

• drunkenness

• promiscuity

• quarrels

• jealousy

• living for the flesh

• Fix our relationships

Instead, he invites us to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ,” letting His light shape our words, choices, and desires.

3. Watchfulness: The Heart of Advent

The Gospel urges us: “Stay awake.”
Jesus’ coming is certain, but the hour is unknown. Advent is not about predicting His arrival, it is about preparing our hearts so that whenever He comes, He finds us ready.

4. Preparing Our Hearts and Homes

Christ comes not only to visit our physical homes but to dwell in our hearts.
Advent asks us:

• Are our hearts prepared?

• Are our homes places where Christ is welcome?

• Do people experience joy, peace, and welcome when they come to us, as they do in the house of the Lord?

“We shall go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.”
Can others come to us and rejoice because they find kindness, patience, gentleness, and peace?

5. Becoming a Living Advent Invitation

Just as the mountain of the Lord draws people into joy, may we also become places of welcome, where others meet Christ through our words, compassion, and example.

Amen 

Happy Sunday 

Pal Ronnie