Gospel Reflections for January 12 2020
Let’s get real …here at home and in the Middle East
John the Baptist affirms that message while baptizing in the Jordan River, a message needed in the Middle East now more than ever.
John calls people to change their life for the better by honestly facing reality and admitting where they have gone wrong. Not everyone does that and so they pay the price of living a dishonest life. No happiness can ever come from that.
I often tell people in counseling about my “Fr. Dave’s Law” …which is that anything you discover about yourself is always good news, because now you know it, and can take practical steps to change if needed. It is what you do not know about yourself that will hurt you. It is the truth that sets you free. (John. 8:34) That was the message at the Jordan River.
Politicians in the Middle East rarely face reality. I have made 18 trips there over the years and have studied it deeply, especially since Our Lord chose to be born there.
Many politicians there live in a fantasy world, thinking that either Israelis or Palestinians will just disappear, or that Christians should be expelled. They often hold political office only to enrich themselves. Many Palestinian and Iranian leaders are billionaires living among very poor communities. They think no one knows their corruption. Well, young people know!
50% of the population is under the age of 30 and they know their corruption well, and no longer want to live in their fantasy world. Arab youth simply want an honest job, to marry and raise a family, the greatest honor of all.
Courageous Arab youth overthrew the corrupt leaders of Tunisia, Libya, and twice in Egypt for those reasons in the 2011 Arab Spring revolt. Iranian youth have been continuously revolting but tragically face a murderous regime that shoots them. Over 1500 have been killed. Iranian leaders still live in a fantasy world thinking they can stop the noble dreams of their youth.
John the Baptist was surprised that Jesus stood before him. John knew this one person above all lived an authentic life and had no need for baptism. Yet Jesus insists, as an example for everyone from that day to our day now to face our reality honestly.
You will see the Middle East remain a battleground between fantasy and reality people for some time. Let it not be your battle, but always seek every day to see yourself honestly, as both John the Baptist and Jesus would want you to do …and please pray for peace in the Middle East.
God Bless!
Fr. Dave
Love the Rosary across America
How many states have “a catholic radio statio”?
I am glad you like the Family Rosary Across America. I believe people can tune in to some Catholic station in every state. EWTN and Relevant Radio would be the two largest AM stations. Catholic Radio on SeriusXM is also huge in that format. All the stations can be accessed through their website as well. There a re plenty of ways to receive great Catholic information. Good news!
Good morning, Father Dave, this was such a well said article touching on such a grave problem in this world. It is awful that the anti-Semitic thing is showing its ugly face again. I really think so much as come in America from the liberal professors on the college/university campuses and hopefully somehow it can be stopped because a lot of what we are seeing today is related. This is another reason why your articles hit home dealing with today and I hope St. Bruno’s parents share them with their middle school, high school and college kids.
God bless, Stephanie Toland
PS One of the reasonable Republican senators has some up with a new bill to try and straighten out AB329 about the sex-ed program but as we know “This is California” the State legislature 29 Dems and only 11 Republicans will make it tough. I miss Sunday Mass at St. Bruno’s but watch it on the computer. Thank you for what you do at St. Bruno’s for us.
Thank you for your kind words. I am glad you can at least watch the mass at home. Let’s continue to pray for peace in the Middle East!
Thanks Father for reminding me to examine my conscience and motives. Self Discovery
Is essential. To improved Spirituality and the pathto Happiness in Eternity.
You are welcome!
The Middle East is in need of a John the Baptist, “Repent, and give up your evil ways”
The situation in the Middle East is worrisome. A peaceful force is needed to halt
Iran’s nuclear program, and their ongoing support for militant groups in the Middle East.
Prayers are needed for a change of minds and hearts for the whole region to come
together peacefully for better lives for everybody.
I agree that John the Baptist is needed among the leaders in the Middle East! Fortunately, we may be seing the beginnings of the end of the Iranian regime.
Hello Father Dave
I have been listening to “Rosary Across America ” during my commute. It is very inspiring !!
Thank you
Cathy
Thank you.