Transcending Mediocrity

The Master's Touch

2010-12-21T06:17:00.000-10:00

December 21, 2010
Tuesday of the 4th week of Advent

Alleluia, alleluia. O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law: come to save us, Lord our God! Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
Song of Songs 2:8-14 or Zep 3:14-18a
Ps 33:2-3, 11-12, 20-21
Luke 1:39-45
http://www.usccb.org/nab/122110.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_12_21.mp3

In today's Gospel, we find Mary, pregnant with Jesus, traveling a long journey to the "hill country" to be with Elizabeth, pregnant with John the Baptist, (the one who will prepare the way for Jesus; and their joyous greeting. Mary needed to be with someone who was also fulfilling God's Plan for them - a plan very contrary to what the world expects of people.

Transcending Mediocrity is God is ultimately in control and God is continually shaping each of us to be the person He created us to be, for His purpose. We are His Masterpieces, when we submit to the Master's Touch.

God's Perfect Plan

2010-12-18T12:46:00.001-10:00

December 18, 2010
Saturday of the 3rd week of Advent

Alleluia, alleluia. O Leader of the House of Israel, giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai;: come to rescue us with your mighty power! Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Jer 23:5-8
Ps 72:1,12-13,18-19
Mt 1:1-18
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/121810.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_12_18.mp3

"Jesus was born of Mary, the betrothed of Joseph, a son of David." Today's Gospel is an account of Joseph and his encounters with learning that his wife was pregnant and an angel presented God's Plan for him, Mary and his soon to be child, Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, our Lord and Savior.

Transcending Mediocrity is about realizing our unique place and role in God's Perfect Design for this world; and then being humble, submissive and obedient to God in being the person He created us to be and in living our our unique part in His Perfect Plan.

God's Perfect Plan

2010-12-18T12:46:00.000-10:00

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

God's Humor is Perfect

2010-12-17T09:04:00.000-10:00

December 17, 2010
Friday of the 3rd week of Advent

Alleluia, alleluia. O Wisdom of our God Most High, guiding creation with power and love: come to teach us the path of knowledge! Alleluia, alleluia.

God’s Sense of Humor is Wild and Wonderful

Today's Readings:
Gen 49:2, 8-10
Ps 72:1-4ab, 7-8, 17
Matthew 1:1-17
http://www.usccb.org/nab/121710.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_12_17.mp3

In today's Gospel, Matthew opens his account of Jesus life and teachings with his genealogy, beginning with Abraham; followed by an overview of forty-two generations, naming some of the interesting characters in Jesus' lineage to his earth-father, Joseph. Listed are those who were very faithful to God, along with those who committed gross sins.

Transcending Mediocrity is realizing that God's Design for us is perfect; that He created all of us, in His image; and than in the future we will understand His Holy Logic and laugh with Him and His Wild and Wonderful Sense of Humor.

God's Perfect Design

2010-12-15T11:17:00.000-10:00

December 15, 2010
Wednesday of the 3rd week of Advent

Alleluia, alleluia. Raise your voice and tell the Good News: Behold, the Lord God comes with power. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Isaiah 45:6b-8, 18, 21b-25
Ps 85:9ab, 10-14
Luke 7:18b-23
http://www.usccb.org/nab/121510.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_12_15.mp3

In today's Gospel, we have St. Luke's version of John the Baptist being reassured that he did prepare the way for Jesus, the Messiah. And Jesus' response to John's friends is, "Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blid regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me."

Transcending Mediocrity is about discovering God's Order in the universe and realizing that out of chaos (disability, disease, poverty, etc.) God Perfect Plan for each of His creation prevails.

God's Truths Are True Reality

2010-12-14T06:28:00.000-10:00

December 14, 2010
Tuesday of the 3rd week of Advent
Today's Saint: John of the Cross

Alleluia, alleluia. Come, O Lord, do not delay; forgive the sins of your people. Alleluia, alleluia.

Perception is NOT Reality

Today's Readings:
Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13
Ps 34:2-3, 6-7, 17-18, 19, 23
Matthew 21:28-32
http://www.usccb.org/nab/121410.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_12_14.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus continues to respond to the challenges of the chief priests and the elders of the people, the spiritual leaders of the Jews, whose teaching had become legalistic, a departure from God's Truths.

Transcending Mediocrity is about aligning ourselves with God's Truths. Man's perception of truth often drifts away from God's Truths, so we need to recalibrate ourselves from time to time, as teachers of God's Truths do from time to time. But it is incumbent on each individual to seek, obey and live God's Truths.

Choose Growth Over Decay

2010-12-10T06:27:00.000-10:00

December 10, 2010
Friday of the 2nd week of Advent

Alleluia, alleluia. The Lord will come; go out to meet him! He is the prince of peace. Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Isaiah 48:17-19
Ps 1:1-4, 6
Matthew 11:16-19
http://www.usccb.org/nab/121010.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_12_10.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus continues the same difficult lesson from yesterday. Jesus' Teaching and new Way of living are very different from life before him. It's a lot easier to live the life before Jesus, but now that Jesus has taught His Way, people are to realize that God's Wisdom is toward eternal happiness; and Jesus consoles the people with, "But wisdom is vindicated by her works."

Transcending Mediocrity is about continuous growth and when we receive God's Truths (often paradigm-shifting), we are to continue our growth through conversion of heart and by changing the way we live our lives.

Inside Out

2010-12-08T15:43:00.000-10:00

December 8, 2010
Wednesday of the 2nd week of Advent
Today's Feast: Immaculate Conception

Alleluia, alleluia. Hail, Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women. Alleluia, alleluia.

God Connects the Dots…

…it’s up to us to grow our own Dots.

Today's Readings:
Genesis 3:9-15 & 20
Ps 98:1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4
Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12
Luke 1:26-38
http://www.usccb.org/nab/120810.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_12_08.mp3

Celebrating the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of our Blessed Virgin Mother, Mary; it is fitting that the Gospel Acclamation is the Angel Gabriel's greeting to Mary, "Hail, Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women." Consider how each of us would greet Mary and announce to her that she, a virgin, is to become the mother of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ? We could embellish Angel Gabriel's words, but it would be difficult to truly improve the words and phrases.

Transcending Mediocrity is a step toward communicating God's Truths with messages that are not used in everyday conversation, but expresses and proclaims God's unique design for the Blessed Virgin Mary and for each of us in a profound manner. God's Plan unfolds with or without us, but we can assist God by growing and developing our own selves, working within ourselves.

God's Truths Prevail

2010-12-07T06:16:00.000-10:00

December 7, 2010
Tuesday of the 2nd week of Advent
Today's Saint: Ambrose

Alleluia, alleluia. The day of the Lord is near: Behold, he comes to save us. Alleluia, alleluia.

Perception is NOT Reality

Today's Readings:
Isaiah 40:1-11
Ps 96:1-3, 10-13 (with Is 40:10ab)
Matthew 18:12-14
http://www.usccb.org/nab/120710.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_12_07.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus teaches his disciples a lesson for all Church leaders about how to care for people, "It is not the will of your heavenly Father that one of these little ones be lost."

Transcending Mediocrity is about doing the right thing - living God's Truths, found in Scripture; rather than making rules to suit ones opinions and ones disregard for God's Truths. One's perception of truth may be vastly different from the reality of God's Truths. Transcending Mediocrity begins with learning and applying God's Truths.

God's Love and Humor Prevails

2010-12-06T06:21:00.000-10:00

December 6, 2010
Monday of the 2nd week of Advent
Today's Feast: St. Nicholas

Alleluia, alleluia. Behold, the king will come, the Lord of the earth, and he himself will lift the yoke of our captivity. Alleluia, alleluia.

God’s Sense of Humor is Wild and Wonderful

Today's Readings:
Isaiah 35:1-10
Ps 85:9-14
Luke 5:17-26
http://www.usccb.org/nab/120610.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_12_06.mp3

Today's Gospel is about Jesus curing a paralytic, who was lowered through the roof of the house Jesus was teaching in. Pharisees and teachers of the law witnessed Jesus forgiving the paralytic's sins and challenged Jesus, "who but God alone can forgive sins?" Jesus responded simply and wisely and everyone was astonished, glorifying God.

Transcending Mediocrity is about learning and reveling in God's Ways of doing things. Transcending Mediocrity is placing our trust in God rather than man.

Obedience Begins Today

2010-12-04T09:30:00.000-10:00

December 4, 2010
Saturday of the 1st week in Advent

Alleluia, alleluia. The Lord is our Judge, our Lawgiver, our King; he it is who will save us. Alleluia, alleluia.

God Connects the Dots…

…it’s up to us to grow our own Dots.

Today's Readings:
Isaiah 30:19-21,23-26
Ps 147:1-6
Matthew 9:35-10:1,5a,6-8
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/120410.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_12_04.mp3

In today's Gospel, there seems to be an urgency, as Jesus sent out his Twelve with instructions, “Go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.” Jesus' urgency should be with us today, in all that we do.

Transcending Mediocrity is about doing the right things at the right time. We are to focus on our spiritual growth, so that when God calls us to proclaim "The Kingdom of heaven is at hand;" we willingly obey.

God's Humor is Perfect

2010-12-03T06:21:00.000-10:00

December 3, 2010
Friday of the 1st week in Advent
Today's Saint: Francis Xavier

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

God’s Sense of Humor is Wild and Wonderful

Today's Readings:
Isaiah 29:17-24
Ps 27:1, 4, 13-14
Matthew 9:27-31
http://www.usccb.org/nab/120310.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_12_03.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus comes across two blind me and he responds to their request for pity and cured them with the words, "Let it be done for you according to your faith;" but with a warning, "See that no one knows about this." Disregarding Jesus' warning, the two cured men "went out and and spread word of him through all that land." Was Jesus' warning actually a strategy to spread the good news?

Transcending Mediocrity is an opportunity to realize God's wild and wonderful sense of humor, after advancing forward and looking back to see how God was with us in our journey from mediocrity - how God writes straight with crooked lines.

Solid Foundation

2010-12-02T06:10:00.000-10:00

December 2, 2010
Thursday of the 1st week in Advent

Alleluia, alleluia. Seek the Lord while he may be found; call him while he is near. Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Isaiah 26:1-6
Ps 118:1, 8-9, 19-21, 25-27a
Matthew 7:21, 24-27
http://www.usccb.org/nab/120210.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_12_02.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus equips his disciples to spread Christianity throughout the world. "Not everyone who says to me 'Lord, Lord' will enter the Kingdom of heaven ..." "Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock."

Transcending Mediocrity is about a final outcome - "enter the Kingdom of heaven;" and begins with being that wise person who builds his house on rock rather than sand, to help us withstand the temptations of complacency and certain decay, through continuous growth.

Abundance-thinking Leads to Eternal Happiness

2010-12-01T07:33:00.000-10:00

December 1, 2010
Wednesday of the 1st week in Advent

Alleluia, alleluia. Behold, the Lord comes to save his people; blessed are those prepared to meet him. Alleluia, alleluia.

Think Abundance, rather than scarcity.

Today's Readings:
Isaiah 25:6-10a
Ps 23:1-6
Matthew 15:29-37
http://www.usccb.org/nab/120110.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_12_01.mp3

In today's Gospel, we learn that Jesus taught great crowds, cured many and then feed everyone with a few loaves of bread and a few fish. Jesus demonstrated His love for His people.

Transcending Mediocrity is about a shift in our attitudes and motivations to love others as Jesus loved. We can begin by thinking abundance or other-centeredness, and transcend scarcity-thinking or self-centeredness.

God's Perfection

2010-11-30T06:39:00.000-10:00

November 30, 2010
Tuesday of the 1st week of Advent
Today's Feast: St. Andrew

Alleluia, alleluia. Come after me, says the Lord, and I will make you fishers of men. Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
Romans 10:9-18
Ps 19:8-11
Matthew 4:18-22
http://www.usccb.org/nab/113010.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_30.mp3

Today's Gospel recounts how Jesus initially formed His Twelve Apostles; beginning with Andrew, Simon (Peter), and James and John (sons of Zebedee). Jesus simply invited them: "Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men."

Transcending Mediocrity is about responding to Jesus' invitation, then mustering the courage to leave the identity we have with those around us, and be the person God created each of us to be - our designed apostolate and God's Perfection.

Strength of Faith

2010-11-29T08:53:00.000-10:00

November 29, 2010
Monday of the 1st week of Advent

Alleluia, alleluia. Come and save us, Lord our God; let your face shine upon us, that we may be saved. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Isaiah 4:2-6
Ps 122:1-9
Matthew 8:5-11
http://www.usccb.org/nab/112910.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_29.mp3

In today's Gospel, we learn about what genuine faith looks like, as demonstrated by the centurion and validated by Jesus.

Transcending Mediocrity is taking responsible action on dire situations. Only through responsible action will we realize God's Hand, Wisdom and Order in the Universe. The chaos in today's Gospel (centurion's servants illness) is the prelude to realizing the lesson for us today and what God wants from us (the strength of faith).

God's Masterpiece

2010-11-28T15:41:00.001-10:00

November 28, 2010
First Sunday of Advent

Alleluia, alleluia. Show us, Lord, your love; and grant us your salvation. Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
Isaiah 2:1-5
Ps 122:1-9
Rom 13:11-14
Matt 24:37-44
http://www.usccb.org/nab/112810.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_28.mp3

Today's Readings encourage us to look toward our life in heaven - eternal full communion with God.

Transcending Mediocrity is our first step toward our assurance of eternity with God. We are to look beyond what we see around us and understand with our senses; and begin focusing on the unseen and God's love for us. We begin by knowing God and submitting to being shaped into God's perfection.

Continuous Growth Toward Heaven

2010-11-27T16:10:00.000-10:00

November 27, 2010
Saturday of the 34th Week of Ordinary Time
Advent begins tomorrow.

Alleluia, alleluia. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you may have the strength to stand before the Son of Man. Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Rev 22:1-7
Ps 95:1-7b
Luke 21:34-36
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/112710.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_27.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus exhorts His disciples for His imminent Passion, death and Resurrection: "Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man."

Transcending Mediocrity is a journey to prepare ourselves for the imminent tribulations so that we are prepared to "stand before the Son of Man." This means continuous growth toward full communion with God and a reminder of hope and celebration of Jesus' birthday.

Choose Growth Over Decay

2010-11-27T16:08:00.000-10:00

November 26, 2010
Friday of the 34th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. Stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand. Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Rev 20:1-4,11--21:2
Ps 84:3-6a, 8a (Rev. 21:3b)
Luke 21:29-33
http://www.usccb.org/nab/112610.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_26.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus teaches about the "Kingdom of God" and "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away."

Transcending Mediocrity is about learning Jesus' words, today; and prepare ourselves for the "Kingdom of God." Continuous growth is the key to avoiding the decay of mediocrity and the status quo; and the mantra to prepare for Heaven.

God's Masterpiece

2010-11-25T11:23:00.000-10:00

November 25, 2010
Thursday of the 34th Week of Ordinary Time
Thanksgiving Day

Alleluia, alleluia. Stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand. Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Sir 50:22-24
Ps 138:1-5
Luke 17:11-19
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/112510b.shtml

Today's Thanksgiving Day readings and especially the Gospel are great reminders to be thankful for what we have and to be exceedingly grateful for God's Gift of Life. In today's Gospel Jesus cured 10 people with the dreaded Hansen's Disease (Leprosy); but of the 10 cured, only one, a Samaritan, returned to Jesus to thank him.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with our awareness of who Created each of us, why in this time and in this place and to our parents and ancestors; and for what purpose. Then we'll begin to see how we have been complacent and ungrateful for all that we have; and how wasteful we have been with our time, talents and treasure. Awake from your slumber and transcend to being the person God created you to be.

Choose Growth Over Decay

2010-11-24T06:01:00.000-10:00

November 24, 2010
Wednesday of the 34th Week of Ordinary Time
Memorial of Saint Andrew Dũng-Lac, priest and martyr, and his companions, martyrs

Alleluia, alleluia. Remain faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Rev 15:1-4
Ps 98:1-3, 7-9
Luke 21:12-19
http://www.usccb.org/nab/112410.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_24.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus prepares his followers for his imminent Passion, Death and Resurrection: "They will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prison, ... because of my name." Jesus' advice: "Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute." And Jesus also encourages them: "... but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives."

Transcending Mediocrity is believing and trusting in the Truth and not being deceived by lies or untruths. And this is only possible by continuous growth.

God's Masterpiece

2010-11-23T06:24:00.001-10:00

November 23, 2010
Tuesday of the 34th Week of Ordinary Time
Today's Saints: Clement I and Columban; Blessed Miguel Pro

Alleluia, alleluia. Remain faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
Rev 14:14-19
Ps 96:10-13
Luke 21:5-11
http://www.usccb.org/nab/112310.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_23.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus drew the people away from the "costly stones and votive offerings" in the temple by focusing on the end of this world and cautioned about false prophets, with a preview of disastrous events that will take place.

Transcending Mediocrity is about focusing on what will help us to be the persons God created us to be - in full communion with Him, rather than attached to glitzy possessions and detracted by false prophets.

Abundance-thinking Leads to Eternal Happiness

2010-11-22T06:07:00.000-10:00

November 22, 2010
Monday of the 34th Week of Ordinary Time
Today's Saint: Cecilia

Alleluia, alleluia. Stay awake! For you do not know when the Son of Man will come. Alleluia, alleluia.

Think Abundance, rather than scarcity.

Today's Readings:
Rev 14:1-5
Ps 24:1-6
Luke 21:1-4
http://www.usccb.org/nab/112210.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_22.mp3

"The Widow's Mite" is today's Gospel and lesson for Jesus - contributions from our sustenance is much more meaningful than from giving from excess. The poor widow gave much more than the wealthy people.

Transcending Mediocrity is about attitudes and behavior that are contrary to what we see prevalently around us. The "narrow path" to eternal happiness requires us to think differently from those on traveling the "wide road" to oblivion. Transcending Mediocrity begins with Abundance-thinking, rather than scarcity-thinking; as the lesson of "The Widow's Mite."

Choices

2010-11-21T10:04:00.000-10:00

November 21, 2010
Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King

Alleluia, alleluia. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the kingdom of our father David that is to come! Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
2 Samuel 5:1-3
Ps 122:1-5
Col 1:12-20
Luke 23:35-43
http://www.usccb.org/nab/112110.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_21.mp3

Today we celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King and today's Gospel is about Jesus nailed to the cross, along side two common thieves. One thief is angry and mocks Jesus; but the other rebuked the first and asks, simply: "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." And Jesus replies: "Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."

Transcending Mediocrity is about our choices; to either side with the angry, self-centered masses; or to move closer to Paradise, beginning with a simple conversation with God. Often, it takes a chaotic situation to shake us and help us realize our mediocrity; and then to choose Paradise and realize God's order in His universe.

God's Masterpiece

2010-11-20T09:43:00.000-10:00

November 20, 2010
Saturday of the 33rd Week of Ordinary Time

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

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
Rev 11:4-12
Ps 144:1-2,9-10
Luke 20:27-40
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/112010.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_20.mp3

In today's Gospel we find the Sadducees again trying to trap Jesus with tough questions; and Jesus, in His typical supernatural wisdom, guides them to more Truth. The lesson for us, today, is to question God and listen for His Truths.

Transcending Mediocrity is realizing that we do not have control of this world and universe; but we can question as that Sadducees did and begin to learn about God and what He has in store for us, as he continues to refine us into His perfection.

Order Follows Chaos

2010-11-19T07:19:00.000-10:00

November 19, 2010
Friday of the 33rd Week of Ordinary Time

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

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Rev 10:8-11
Ps 119:14,24,72,103,111,131
Luke 19:45-48
http://www.usccb.org/nab/111910.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_19.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus displays his emotions, when he entered the Temple area and saw people selling things: "It is written, My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves." There's a proper time and place for everything.

Transcending Mediocrity is pausing and questioning what we observe - looking for God's Truth to be evident; and then taking action to ensure that His Truths are practiced. But we must begin with ourselves, by first learning God's Truths. Jesus taught us in today's Gospel that at times chaos precedes God's order.

Peace = Knowledge and Growth

2010-11-18T06:15:00.000-10:00

November 18, 2010
Thursday of the 33rd Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts. Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Rev 5:1-10
Ps 149:1b-6a, 9b (with Rev. 5:10)
Luke 19:41-44
http://www.usccb.org/nab/111810.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_18.mp3

"If this day you only knew what makes for peace .... for the days are coming upon you when your enemies will raise a palisade against you ... they will not leave one stone upon another within you because you did not recognize the time of your visitation." Threatening words from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, as he drew near Jerusalem. What does this mean to us, today? We have lost sight of peace and we have relinquished our freedom to the foe, all because we are not prepared.

Preparation is the key to Transcending Mediocrity. We are being molded into the person God created us to be. Continual growth toward full communion with God is a constant struggle; and the world tells us to take the easy way - complacency, status quo and sure decay - mediocrity.

Abundance Thinking Gains

2010-11-17T07:56:00.000-10:00

November 17, 2010
Wednesday of the 33rd Week of Ordinary Time
Today's Saint: Elizabeth of Hungary

Alleluia, alleluia. I chose you from the world, to go and bear fruit that will last, says the Lord. Alleluia, alleluia.

Think Abundance, rather than scarcity.

Today's Readings:
Rev 4:1-11
Ps 150:1b-6
Luke 19:11-28
http://www.usccb.org/nab/111710.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_17.mp3

"I tell you, to everyone who has, more will be given, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away." Another paradoxical lesson from Jesus, that comes at the end of a parable about servants (of a demanding nobleman) and what they did with the gold coins they were "to engage in trade." Those who took risks were rewarded and the one who did not get any return on investment lost what he had.

Transcending Mediocrity is about making use of or exercising whatever you have (tangible wealth or intangible gifts) for God's Glory; and this takes risk with an attitude of abundance thinking. The opposite of abundance thinking is scarcity thinking, which enslaves us in mediocrity.

God's Order Rules

2010-11-16T06:27:00.000-10:00

November 16, 2010
Tuesday of the 33rd Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. God loved us, and sent his Son as expiation for our sins. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Rev 3:1-6, 14-22
Ps 15:2-5 (with Rev. 3:21)
Luke 19:1-10
http://www.usccb.org/nab/111610.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_16.mp3

In today's Gospel, we learn of God's unconditional love for us through the story of Zacchaeus, a despised tax collector who did what he needed to do to get a glimpse of Jesus; and Jesus rewarded his efforts by dining with him and granted him and his household salvation. "For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost."

Transcending Mediocrity is doing as Zacchaeus did, climbing a tree to see Jesus; and not being lukewarm (see today's First Reading) like the masses around Zacchaeus and us, today, who chide us for our enthusiasm and boldness to grow and improve. Becoming the person God created us to be is initially chaos; but we will be rewarded in the end, as we realize the order in God's universe.

God's Masterpiece

2010-11-15T08:04:00.000-10:00

November 15, 2010
Monday of the 33rd Week of Ordinary Time
Today's Saint: Albert the Great

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

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
Rev 1:1-4; 2:1-5
Ps 1:1-4, 6 (with Rev. 2:17)
Luke 18:35-43
http://www.usccb.org/nab/111510.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_15.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus performances another miracle by giving sight to a blind man, who had shouted, "Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!" And the man "immediately received his sight and followed him, giving glory to God." Are we willing to shout our request to Jesus and then follow him, all the while giving God glory?

Transcending Mediocrity is about shifting our priorities from our fellow human beings and temporary wealth and possessions; toward eternally fulfilling communion with our Creator. And this shift is about obediently submitting to God and being shaped into His perfection - becoming the person he created each of us to be.

Continuous Growth Toward Heaven

2010-11-14T11:37:00.000-10:00

November 14, 2010
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C

Alleluia, alleluia. Stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand. Alleluia, alleluia.

November 14, 2010
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Next Sunday's Readings:
Mal 3:19-20a
Ps 98:5-9
2 Thess 3:7-12
Luke 21:5-19
http://www.usccb.org/nab/111410.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_14.mp3

Today's Readings:
Mal 3:19-20a
Ps 98:5-9
2 Thess 3:7-12
Luke 21:5-19
http://www.usccb.org/nab/111410.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_14.mp3

"By your perseverance you will secure your lives" - Jesus' last line in today's Gospel; and a message for us today to be ready for our end of life and this world, as we know it. As Jesus taught, there will be wars, insurrections, disasters, suffering as a sign of the end of this world; but we will not know when or how we will die, so we are to persevere in our journeys toward full communion with God.

Transcending Mediocrity is about continual growth; especially when the world around us are content and complacent with the status quo.

Perfection Comes From Persistent Growth

2010-11-13T09:35:00.001-10:00

November 13, 2010
Saturday of the 32nd Week of Ordinary Time
Today's Saint: Frances Xavier Cabrini

Alleluia, alleluia. God has called us through the Gospel, to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
2 John 4-9
Ps 119:1,2,10,11,17,18
Luke 17:26-37
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/111310.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_13.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus teaches his disciples about the necessity for praying always without becoming weary; through a parable about how an unjust judge relented and delivered a just decision for a widow, because of her persistent request: "Render a just decision for me against my adversary."

Transcending Mediocrity is about being persistent to continually grow and advance beyond the status quo that the masses are content with; and become the person God created you to be - perfect in God's design.

Truth is Reality

2010-11-12T07:08:00.000-10:00

November 12, 2010
Friday of the 32nd Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. Stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand. Alleluia, alleluia.

Perception is NOT Reality

Today's Readings:
2 John 4-9
Ps 119:1,2,10,11,17,18
Luke 17:26-37
http://www.usccb.org/nab/111210.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_12.mp3

"Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it and whoever loses it will save it." Another paradigm-shifting teaching form our Lord and Savior - the opposite of what our world socializes us to believe.

Transcending Mediocrity is about learning the Truth and then living it, far contradictory from way we're taught to live by our parents, grandparents and our educational and business systems; especially what's viewed on the television media. It's up to each of us to discern the Truth from all the noise around us.

God's Perfect Design

2010-11-09T06:21:00.000-10:00

November 9, 2010
Tuesday of the 32nd Week of Ordinary Time
Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome

Alleluia, alleluia. I have chosen and consecrated this house, says the Lord, that my name may be there forever. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Ezek 47:1-2, 8-9, 12
Ps 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9
1 Cor 3:9c-11, 16-17
John 2:13-22
http://www.usccb.org/nab/110910.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_09.mp3

Today is the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome. We celebrate the anniversary of the dedication of the cathedral church of Rome; the episcopal seat of the pope as bishop of Rome. The readings speak of God's temple and in the Gospel, Jesus foretells his death and resurrection: "Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up."

Transcending Mediocrity is being open to what exists beyond what we see or experience; and realizing that what may be chaos to us, is order in God's Perfect Design.

Faith Through Relationship

2010-11-08T05:53:00.000-10:00

November 8, 2010
Monday of the 32nd Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. Shine like lights in the world, as you hold on to the word of life. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Titus 1:1-9
Ps 24:1b-6
Luke 17:1-6
http://www.usccb.org/nab/110810.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_08.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus responds to the request from his Apostles to increase their faith: "If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you wold say to this mulberry tree, be uprooted and planted in the sea, and it would obey you." Imagine for a moment what our world would be like if everyone had this kind of faith? Would we end terrorism, conflicts, wars, natural disasters, etc.?

Transcending Mediocrity is about a journey toward the kind of faith that can uproot trees to be planted in the ocean. The chaos is a sign of our lack of faith - our mediocrity; urging us to strengthen our relationship with our Creator, so that He will gift us with the faith to begin to live His Kingdom on earth.

Perception is NOT Reality

2010-11-07T07:42:00.000-10:00

November 7, 2010
32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C

Alleluia, alleluia. Jesus Christ is the firstborn of the dead; to him be glory and power, forever and ever. Alleluia, alleluia.

Perception is NOT Reality

Today's Readings:
2 Macc 7:1-2, 9-14
Ps 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15
2 Thess 2:16–3:5
Luke 20:27-38
http://www.usccb.org/nab/110710.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_07.mp3

Another paradigm-shifting lesson for the Sadducees, regarding their denial of a resurrection. Jesus responds to their trickery with His Teaching that there is a resurrection and when people die, "they can no longer dies, for they are like angels; and they are the children of God because they are the ones who will rise."

Transcending Mediocrity is about discerning the differences between perception and reality - man's logic versus God's Truths.

Eternal Reward or Destruction

2010-11-06T08:51:00.000-10:00

November 6, 2010
Saturday of the 31st Week of Ordinary Time

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

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Phil 4:10-19
Ps 112:1b-2.5-6,8a-9
Luke 16:9-15
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/110610.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_06.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus teaches "No servant 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." And attempting to be in the middle is considered lukewarm and loving or devoted to either extreme.

Transcending Mediocrity is about not being lukewarm or status quo; but choosing one of two extremes. Choosing God is growth, the narrow road and takes concerted effort with eternal rewards; over decay, the wide road to eternal destruction.

Joy Comes After Finding A Lost

2010-11-04T08:27:00.000-10:00

November 4, 2010
Thursday of the 31st Week of Ordinary Time
Today's Saint: Charles Borromeo

Alleluia, alleluia. Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest, says the Lord. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Phil 3:3-8a
Ps 105:2-7
Luke 15:1-10
http://www.usccb.org/nab/110410.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_04.mp3

In today's Gospel, tax collectors and sinners gathered to listen to Jesus and his lesson was again intended for the Pharisees and scribes. Jesus tells two parables about a lost sheep and a lost coin and how the shepherd and woman did all they could to find their one lost sheep and one lost coin. Jesus concluded the parables with the joy of finding the sheep and coin, and, "In just the same way, I tell you, there will be rejoicing among the angels of God over one sinner who repents."

Transcending Mediocrity is about realizing the magnitude and vastness of God's Perfect Plan; by taking action rather than dwelling on a loss, and using these opportunities to begin to understand God's Order in His Universe.

Being God's Perfection

2010-11-03T05:42:00.000-10:00

November 3, 2010
Wednesday of the 31st Week of Ordinary Time
Today's Saint: Martin de Porres

Alleluia, alleluia. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of God rests upon you. Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
Phil 2:12-18
Ps 27:1, 4, 13-14
Luke 14:25-33
http://www.usccb.org/nab/110310.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_03.mp3

Another paradigm-shifting lesson from Jesus, in today's Gospel: "... everyone of you who does not renounce all his possessions cannot be my disciple." All of us are invited to be Jesus' disciple; but a chosen few are actually called to be his disciple. And Jesus may call us today. Are we prepared to readily respond by detaching from our attachments?

Transcending Mediocrity is about having proper priorities - God first and in alignment with God's unique design for each of us - to be the person He created us to be. Choose to be molded into God's perfection.

God Is Love

2010-11-02T06:23:00.000-10:00

November 2, 2010
Tuesday of the 31st Week of Ordinary Time
Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls Day)

Alleluia, alleluia. This is the will of my Father, says the Lord, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life. Alleluia, alleluia.

God’s Sense of Humor is Wild and Wonderful

Today's Readings:
Wisdom 3:1-9
Ps 23:1-6
Rom 5:5-11 or Rom 6:3-9
John 6:37-40
http://www.usccb.org/nab/110210.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_02.mp3

Today is All Souls Day, when we commemorate all the Faithful Departed. And in today's Gospel Acclamation and Gospel, Jesus summarizes God's love for us: "For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him my have eternal life, and I shall raise him on the last day." Heaven and eternal communion with God is our destiny.

Transcending Mediocrity is choosing God over evil, with the expectant joy of Heaven for all eternity. Then we will understand God's Perfect Plan for the world and each of us, and know, without a shadow of doubt, that His design is perfect and His sense of humor is wild and wonderful.

God's Perfection

2010-11-01T05:51:00.000-10:00

November 1, 2010
Monday of the 31st Week of Ordinary Time
Today's Feast: All Saints

Alleluia, alleluia. Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest, says the Lord. Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
Rev 7:2-4, 9-14
Ps 24:1-6
1 John 3:1-3
Matt 5:1-12a
http://www.usccb.org/nab/110110.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_11_01.mp3

Today we celebrate the Feast of All Saints ... and ... all saints in the making, US. Jesus teaches us His Beatitudes, in today's Gospel, which highlights the lives of Saints and a gentle guide for us, today.

Transcending Mediocrity is about focusing on our eternal communion with God instead of ourselves; and about becoming the person God created us to be - His Perfection.

The Choice is Ours

2010-10-31T07:43:00.000-10:00

October 31, 2010
31st Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C

Alleluia, alleluia. God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might have eternal life. Alleluia, alleluia.

God Connects the Dots…

…it’s up to us to grow our own Dots.

Sunday's Readings:
Wisdom 11:22–12:2
Psalm 145:1-2,8-11,13,14
2 Thess 1:11–2:2
Luke 19:1-10
http://www.usccb.org/nab/103110.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_31.mp3

In today's Gospel we learn of Zacchaeus, a wealthy chief tax collector, who did what he needed to do to get a glimpse of Jesus and Jesus acknowledged Zacchaeus' zeal and asked to stay at his home. And Jesus' response to Zacchaeus: "Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost."

Transcending Mediocrity is realizing that God does want a close relationship with us and it begins with us making a decision and taking action to seek God. God created us and the universe and He is in control of everything seen and unseen; and He gave us the freedom of choice to choose Him and everlasting happiness.

God's Truths Prevail

2010-10-30T08:16:00.000-10:00

October 30, 2010
Saturday of the 30th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart. Alleluia, alleluia.

Perception is NOT Reality

Today's Readings:
Phil 1:18b-26
Ps 42:2-3,5cdef
Luke 14:1,7-11
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/103010.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_30.mp3

Another paradigm-shifting lesson in today's Gospel; on another sabbath and for a leading Pharisee dining with Jesus: "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."

Transcending Mediocrity begins with shifting our paradigm from what we see around us and perceive to be truth, to what God's Truths are all about - Reality.

Correct Living

2010-10-29T05:40:00.000-10:00

October 29, 2010
Friday of the 30th Week of Ordinary Time

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

Perception is NOT Reality

Today's Readings:
Phil 1:1-11
Ps 111:1-6
Luke 14:1-6
http://www.usccb.org/nab/102910.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_29.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus presents another paradigm-shifting lesson for the Pharisees, as he cured a man with dropsy on the Sabbath. Jesus brings God's Truth to practical terms with, "Who among you, if your son or ox falls into a cistern, would not immediately pull him out on the sabbath day?"

Transcending Mediocrity is about distinguishing perception from reality, man's laws from God's Truths, and making a paradigm-shift to honor, behave and live correctly.

Order in the Universe

2010-10-28T08:27:00.000-10:00

October 28, 2010
Thursday of the 30th Week of Ordinary Time
Today's Feast: Sts. Simon and Jude

Alleluia, alleluia. We praise you, O God, we acclaim you as Lord; the glorious company of Apostles praise you. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Eph 2:19-22
Ps 19:2-5
Luke 6:12-16
http://www.usccb.org/nab/102810.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_28.mp3

The lesson in today's Gospel is "Jesus went up to the mountain to pray to God," and then "he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he named Apostles..." Of the twelve, today is the Feast Day for Simon who was called a Zealot and Judas (or Jude) the son of James. The last Apostle named is "Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor." The choice of the twelve Apostles, among Jesus' many disciples, was from God, through Jesus' pray with God. All of our decisions should be made through prayer with God.

Transcending Mediocrity is about adjusting our priorities and how we make decisions. When God and prayer (conversation) with Him is foremost in our priorities and decisions, our reaction and response to situations will be in alignment with God. Only then will we realize that every chaotic event is truly order in God's universe.

God's Sense of Humor

2010-10-27T05:48:00.000-10:00

October 27, 2010
Wednesday of the 30th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. God has called us through the Gospel to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Alleluia, alleluia.

God’s Sense of Humor is Wild and Wonderful

Today's Readings:
Eph 6:1-9
Ps 145:10-14
Luke 13:22-30
http://www.usccb.org/nab/102710.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_27.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus poses more teaching to ponder: "Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough." "For behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last." "Narrow gate" to where? "Attempt" versus do. What does it mean to be "First?" What does it mean to be "Last."

Transcending Mediocrity begins with understanding what Jesus taught in today's Gospel; and then applying His Teachings. Then after developing our strength and passing through the "narrow gate" we will look back and understand what it means to be "last" and "first" and we will revel in God's Wild and Wonderful Sense of Humor.

Abundant and Everlasting Life

2010-10-26T08:49:00.000-10:00

October 26, 2010
Tuesday of the 30th Week of Ordinary Time

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

Think Abundance, rather than scarcity.

Today's Readings:
Eph 5:21-33
Ps 128:1-5
Luke 13:18-21
http://www.usccb.org/nab/102610.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_26.mp3

In today's Gospel Jesus teaches us that the Kingdom of God may be compared to a mustard seed that "when fully grown, it became a large bush and birds of the sky dwelt in its branches;" or "like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch of dough was leavened." Just a little of the right element can be the catalyst for vastness.

Transcending Mediocrity is about believing and living with Abundance thinking, rather than living a mediocre life, suppressed by scarcity thinking. God's Word and Truths are your mustard seed and yeast.

Order Follows Chaos

2010-10-25T05:49:00.000-10:00

October 25, 2010
Monday of the 30th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. Your word, O Lord, it truth; consecrate us in the truth. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Eph 4:32--5:8
Ps 1:1-4, 6
Luke 13:10-17
http://www.usccb.org/nab/102510.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_25.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus cures a woman who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years; and on the sabbath day. Jesus' good work was denounced by synagogue officials; but He used human criticism and resistance to teach us to mercifully set people free from the bondage of Satan.

Transcending Mediocrity often humiliates people who are in positions of authority; as any shift from human toward God will be met with criticism and rejection. What appears to be chaos, is often the catalyst to God's Truths and a glimpse of God's Perfect Plan in His Universe.

Do What Are Best For Us And The World

2010-10-22T08:59:00.000-10:00

October 22, 2010
Friday of the 29th Week of Ordinary Time

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

Everyone has “The Answers” within them

Today's Readings:
Eph 4:1-6
Ps 24:1-6
Luke 12:54-59
http://www.usccb.org/nab/102210.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_22.mp3

Jesus' lesson in today's Gospel should resound within all of us, today: "You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky; why do you not know how to interpret the present time?" Science and technology gives us accurate weather forecasts so there's no excuse for being unprepared for severe weather; yet we don't know how to predict earthquakes, tsunamis and other devastating events or the end of our lives or how we affect others and their spiritual journeys.

Transcending Mediocrity is about getting in touch with God and His Truths. We already know "the Answers;" yet we remain in mediocrity when we disregard obeying and submitting to God; and we deny being the person God created us to be; choosing hypocrisy and living with society's norms.

God's Truths Is True Reality

2010-10-21T09:38:00.001-10:00

October 21, 2010
Thursday of the 29th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. I consider all things so much rubbish that I may gain Christ and be found in him. Alleluia, alleluia.

Perception is NOT Reality

Today's Readings:
Eph 3:14-21
Ps 33:1-2,4-5,11-12,18-19
Luke 12:49-53
http://www.usccb.org/nab/102110.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_21.mp3

Another paradigm-shifting lesson from Jesus, in today's Gospel: "I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing!" At face value, this teaching appears to paradoxical from God being a loving God. But Jesus is speaking of unconditional love for the good of each person's soul and salvation; not the human love that places people above God Himself.

Transcending Mediocrity is deciphering God's Truth (Reality) from what we perceive to be God's Truths.

God Connects The Dots

2010-10-21T09:27:00.000-10:00

October 20, 2010
Wednesday of the 29th Week of Ordinary Time

Today's Saint: Paul of the Cross

Alleluia, alleluia. Stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come. Alleluia, alleluia.

God Connects the Dots…

…it’s up to us to grow our own Dots.

Today's Readings:
Eph 3:2-12
Is 12:2-6
Luke 12:39-48
http://www.usccb.org/nab/102010.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_20.mp3

"Much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more." This is another paradigm-shifting teaching of Jesus, especially for those responsible for the catechesis of the masses who need to understand God's Truths.

Transcending Mediocrity is moving out from complacency and become responsible for our own spiritual growth (our own Dots), thereby helping others with their growth toward full communion with God (and God connecting the Dots).

Mighty Blessings

2010-10-19T06:29:00.000-10:00

October 19, 2010
Tuesday of the 29th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you may have the strength to stand before the Son of Man. Alleluia, alleluia.

Think Abundance, rather than scarcity.

Today's Readings:
Eph 2:12-22
Ps 85:9ab-14
Luke 12:35-38
http://www.usccb.org/nab/101910.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_19.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus teaches through a parable about servants being ever prepared for the arrival of their master. "Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival." The Son of Man is the returning master and we are His servants, every expectant and joyfully vigilant to honor, worship and serve Him.

Transcending Mediocrity is about being "other-centered" rather than "self-centered;" about serving God rather than serving ourselves. When we are "other-centered and serving God, we practice abundance thinking; and God will bless us mightily.

God's Creation

2010-10-18T05:54:00.000-10:00

October 18, 2010
Monday of the 29th Week of Ordinary Time
Today's Feast: St. Luke

Alleluia, alleluia. I chose you from the world, to go and bear fruit that will last, says the Lord. Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
2 Tim 4:10-17b
Ps 145:10-13,17-18
Luke 10:1-9
http://www.usccb.org/nab/101810.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_18.mp3

Today is the Feast of St. Luke, credited with authoring one of the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles. And in today's Gospel of Luke, we learn: "The Lord Jesus appointed seventy-two disciples whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. He said to them, 'The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves.'" Jesus' message and appointment applies to us today to spread Jesus' good news to everyone.

Transcending Mediocrity happens when we hear our Lord's voice calling each of us, in our unique God-given way, to to respond to God's call to go and bear fruit that will last. Transcending Mediocrity is about submitting to God as he shapes each of us into being the persons He created us to be.

Faith-filled Prayer with Perseverance

2010-10-17T07:28:00.000-10:00

October 17, 2010
29th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C

Alleluia, alleluia. The word of God is living and effective, discerning reflections and thoughts of the heart. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Next Sunday's Readings:
Exodus 17:8-13
Psalm 121:1-8
2 Tim 3:14 – 4:2
Luke 18:1-8
http://www.usccb.org/nab/101710.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_17.mp3

"But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?" This is the last sentence of today's Gospel and Jesus' challenge to us. in the first part of today's Gospel, Jesus uses a parable about an unjust judge and persistent widow to teach his disciples about the necessity constant of prayer. We are to persevere in our prayers with patience and persistence, thereby solidifying our faith for Jesus' return.

Transcending Mediocrity is about following God's desire for us, especially when behavior, such as constant prayer with patient perseverance seems useless and disruptive; for in the end will will realize God's order in His universe and will be faith-filled when the Son of Man comes.

God is in Control

2010-10-16T08:00:00.000-10:00

October 16, 2010
Saturday of the 28th Week of Ordinary Time
Today's Saints: Hedwig and Margaret Mary

Alleluia, alleluia. The Spirit of truth will testify to me, says the Lord, and you also will testify. Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
Eph 1:15-23
Ps 8:2-3b,4-7
Luke 12:8-12
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/101610.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_16.mp3

Today's Gospel Acclamation is the key for our communication with God and people. And in the Gospel, Jesus teaches us, "For the Holy Spirit will teach you at that moment what you should say."

Transcending Mediocrity is allowing God to shape us and the first step is to communicate and develop our relationship with God.

Living Congruently

2010-10-15T06:06:00.000-10:00

October 15, 2010
Friday of the 28th Week of Ordinary Time
Today's Saint: Teresa of Avila

Alleluia, alleluia. May your kindness, Lord, be upon us; who have put our hope in you. Alleluia, alleluia.

Everyone has “The Answers” within them

Today's Readings:
Eph 1:11-14
Ps 33:1-2,4-5,12-13
Luke 12:1-7
http://www.usccb.org/nab/101510.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_15.mp3

Another arrow aimed at the Pharisees. In today's Gospel of Luke; Jesus' teaching results from the negative behavior of the Pharisees and a clear warning for us today. "Beware of the leaven - that is, the hypocrisy." Today's Saint, Teresa of Avila, is a good example - she reformed the Carmelite order and met much resistance in doing so.

Transcending Mediocrity is paradigm shifting. Transcending Mediocrity is choosing not to simply follow what the crowd is doing, when you know in your heart how to behave congruently - the Answers - to live without hypocrisy.

God's Loving Plan For Our Salvation

2010-10-14T06:45:00.000-10:00

October 14, 2010
Thursday of the 28th Week of Ordinary Time

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

God’s Sense of Humor is Wild and Wonderful

Today's Readings:
Eph 1:1-10
Ps 98:1-6
Luke 11:47-54
http://www.usccb.org/nab/101410.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_14.mp3

In today's Gospel, as with the previous chapters from the Gospel of Luke; Jesus is critical of scribes and Pharisees, who in turn attempt retaliation and "began to act with hostility toward him and to interrogate him about many things, for they were plotting to catch him at something he might say."

Transcending Mediocrity is realizing how God works, which is beyond our wildest imaginings.

God's Truths Apply to ALL

2010-10-13T08:53:00.000-10:00

October 13, 2010
Wednesday of the 28th Week of Ordinary Time

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

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Gal 5:18-25
Ps 1:1-4, 6 (with Jn 8:12)
Luke 11:42-46
http://www.usccb.org/nab/101310.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_13.mp3

Today's Gospel presents another paradigm shifting teaching of Jesus: "Woe also to you scholars of the law! You impose on people burdens hard to carry, but you yourselves do not lift one finger to touch them."

Transcending Mediocrity is about continual growth and Jesus' teaching in today's Gospel applies to everyone; and exhorts us to prepare ourselves for our own paradigm shifts, through study of God's Truths in Scriptures and not relying on what scholars of the law say.

Congruent and Efficacious

2010-10-12T05:49:00.000-10:00

October 12, 2010
Tuesday of the 28th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. The word of God is living and effective, able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart. Alleluia, alleluia.

Perception is NOT Reality

Today's Readings:
Gal 5:1-6
Ps 119:41,43-45,47-48
Luke 11:37-41
http://www.usccb.org/nab/101210.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_12.mp3

Jesus presents another difficult, paradigm shifting lesson for a Pharisee and us in today's Gospel - what's inside us is more important than our outside or how others perceive us without knowing who we are inside.

Transcending Mediocrity is about congruence and efficacy - being the same person people see or perceive (our outside self) with who we are inside or reality (our inner values or morals). We will be ever mediocre when living in a world of perception. Reality is being the unique person God created us to be and being the same person outside as well as inside.

Let Your Conscience Be Your Guide

2010-10-11T05:40:00.000-10:00

October 11, 2010

Monday of the 28th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts. Alleluia, alleluia.

Everyone has “The Answers” within them

Today's Readings:
Gal 4:22-24,26-27,31--5:1
Ps 113:1b-7
Luke 11:29-32
http://www.usccb.org/nab/101110.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_11.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus cautioned his listeners about signs: "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." Jesus Christ, God became man, lived on this earth; and suffered, died and resurrected for our Salvation - no other sign is necessary for us today.

Transcending Mediocrity is putting into motion what God has already given us - the Answers we know to be true, our conscience - repent from our sinfulness, listen to the voice of God and submit to Him.

Thanks and Service to God

2010-10-10T07:59:00.000-10:00

October 10, 2010

28th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C

Alleluia, alleluia. In all circumstances, give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Next Sunday's Readings:
2 Kings 5:14-17
Psalm 98:1-4
2 Timothy 2:8-13
Luke 17:11-19
http://www.usccb.org/nab/101010.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_10.mp3

"Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?" In today's Gospel Jesus encountered ten lepers who asked for His pity, but only one Samaritan returned to honor and thank Jesus. This is the 90/10 rule - all receive, but only 10 percent receive, appreciate and give thanks and service to God.

Transcending Mediocrity is about being part of the 10 percent rather than living in the mediocrity of the 90 percent. Typically, the 10 percent submit to being shaped to God's perfection and whose role is to awaken the 90 percent.

Becoming The Person God Created Us To Be

2010-10-09T07:08:00.000-10:00

October 9, 2010

Saturday of the 27th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. Blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it. Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Gal3:22-29
Ps 105:2-7
Luke 11:27-28
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/100910.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_09.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus responds to a praise to honor his mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary; and he makes use of this opportunity by having his audience focus on each persons' purpose in life: "Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it." As the Virgin Mary heard the word of God and obeyed; Jesus asks us to do the same - listen for God's Word and submit to His Truths.

Transcending Mediocrity is about continual growth; especially in the area of our listening to God's Word. The next step it to take God's Word and Truth to heart and do has He directs us; not merely following the crowd - status quo (mediocrity). God created each of us in His image and for His design and purpose - His perfect plan for each of us.

Continuous Growth Toward Heaven

2010-10-08T07:05:00.000-10:00

October 8, 2010
Friday of the 27th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. The prince of this world will now be cast out, and when I am lifted up from the earth I will draw all to myself, says the Lord. Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Gal 3:7-14
Ps 111:1b-6
Luke 11:15-26
http://www.usccb.org/nab/100810.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_08.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus presents a grave lesson about the devil's cunning persistence. "When an unclean spirit goes out of someone, it roams through arid regions searching for rest but, finding none it says, 'I shall return to my home from which I came.' But upon returning, it finds it swept clean and put in order. Then it goes and brings back seven other spirits more wicked than itself who move in and dwell there, and the last condition of that man is worse than the first."

Transcending Mediocrity is about keeping the devil out of us. Evil is real and wants to consume us. Complacency, status quo, false contentment are all forms of mediocrity and certain, sure decay. Our Faith needs continual growth toward full communion with God by transcending mediocrity.

Conversion = Change = Transcendance

2010-10-07T05:51:00.000-10:00

October 7, 2010

Thursday of the 27th Week of Ordinary Time

Today's Memorial: Our Lady of the Rosary

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

Formula for Conversion or Change

C > R = D • V • F • S

Conversion is about Change

- overcoming Resistance to Conversion;

based on Dissatisfaction;

Vision;

First steps; and

Support system

Today's Readings:
Gal 3:1-5
Lk 1:(68)69-75
Luke 11:5-13
http://www.usccb.org/nab/100710.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_07.mp3

"Ask and you shall receive; 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." These are everlasting words of wisdom from Jesus, in today's Gospel - God's Truths - available to all who ask, seek or knock.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with our response to an event and our decision to act. Then we are to act - to ask, to seek or to knock. Action transcends us from mediocrity - conversion or change.

Continuous Growth in Relationship

2010-10-06T05:46:00.000-10:00

October 6, 2010

Wednesday of the 27th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. You have received a s spirit of adoption as sons through which we cry: Abba! Father! Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Gal 2:1-2, 7-14
Ps 117:1bc, 2
Luke 11:1-4
http://www.usccb.org/nab/100610.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_06.mp3

In today's Gospel, at the request of his disciples; Jesus taught us how to pray. The lesson for us, beside "the Lord's Prayer" is that we are to have a relationship with God where we can ask Him for guidance and advice.

Transcending Mediocrity is about continual growth. Being a believer of Jesus Christ is a start; discipleship and apostleship are two more descriptions of our relationship with God.

Growth or Decay

2010-10-05T05:47:00.000-10:00

October 5, 2010

Tuesday of the 27th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. Blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it. Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Gal 1:13-24
Ps 139:(24b)1b-3,13-15
Luke 10:38-42
http://www.usccb.org/nab/100510.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_05.mp3

In today's Gospel we learn of two very different relationship styles when in Jesus' presence - Martha, scurrying around, serving Jesus; and Mary who simply sat at His side. There are many other relationship styles - what's your way of relating to Jesus.

Transcending Mediocrity is about growing our relationship with Jesus because God created us in His image out of His love for us and He wants us close to him. Any resistance to developing a closer relationship with God is living in mediocrity - content with the status quo and certain decay. Growth is conversion or change or Transcending our Mediocrity.

Love or Denial

2010-10-04T05:40:00.000-10:00

October 4, 2010

Monday of the 27th Week of Ordinary Time

Today's Saint: Francis of Assisi

Alleluia, alleluia. I give you a new commandment: love one another as I have loved you. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Gal 1:6-12
Ps 111:(5)1b-2,7-10c
Luke 10:25-37
http://www.usccb.org/nab/1090410.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_04.mp3

Treat people with mercy is Jesus lesson to a scholar of the law, in today's Gospel. All lessons written in the Gospels apply to us, today. All of us will have an occasion to see someone in need, like the Gospel's victim of robbers\. How will we react and respond? Typical reaction is self-preservation - avoidance. The usual response is self-centeredness - concern for ourselves. Jesus' lesson is other-centeredness - treat people with mercy.

Transcending Mediocrity is about responding with lessons taught by Jesus Christ. Every crisis or chaotic situation, such as encountering a victim of robbers, is an opportunity to respond with the love that Jesus has for each of us. Jesus loves each of us, the victim and the robbers; and wants each of us to respond with His love.

The Answer: Grow Our Faith

2010-10-03T06:03:00.000-10:00

October 3, 2010

27th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle

Alleluia, alleluia. The word of the Lord remains for ever. This is the word that has been proclaimed to you. Alleluia, alleluia.

Everyone has “The Answers” within them

Next Sunday's Readings:
Habakkuk 1: 2-3; 2: 2-4
Psalm 95:1-2,6-9
2 Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14
Luke 17:5-10
http://www.usccb.org/nab/100310.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_03.mp3

"If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you would say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it would obey you." This was Jesus' reply to his apostles and their request for Jesus to "Increase our faith." And Jesus startles his apostles and us, "We are unprofitable servants, we have done what we were obliged to do."

Transcending Mediocrity is about doing more than what we are obliged to do - complacency - the mediocrity of an unprofitable servant. We have God-given choice and freedom to transcend our complacency and increase our faith to truly be the persons God created us to be. We do have the Answers within us, but we satisfied with our complacency and the status quo.

God's Perfection

2010-10-02T07:39:00.000-10:00

October 2, 2010

Saturday of the 26th Week of Ordinary Time

Memorial: Guardian Angels

Alleluia, alleluia. Bless the Lord, all you angels, you ministers, who do his will. Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
Jb 42:1-3, 5-6, 12-17

Ps 119:66, 71, 75, 91, 125, 130

Mt 18:1-5,19
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/100210.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_02.mp3

As adults, we have more to learn; as Jesus taught his disciples in today's Gospel, "Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me."

Transcending Mediocrity is about be ever open to being shaped by God into His designed perfection for each of us..

God's Loving Plan For Our Salvation

2010-10-01T06:31:00.000-10:00

October 1, 2010

Friday of the 26th Week of Ordinary Time

Today's Saint: St. Therese of the Child Jesus

Alleluia, alleluia. If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts. Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
Job 38:1, 12-21;40:3-5
Ps 139:1-3,7-10,13-14ab
Luke 10:13-16
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/100110.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_10_01.mp3

Today's Gospel Acclamation sums the messages in today's First Reading, Responsorial Psalm and Gospel. God is speak to us all the time, but often we're doing all the talking and therefore not hearing His voice and His love.

Transcending Mediocrity is about being continually shaped and molded (conversions) by God to be the persons He created us to be - unique and for His purpose, His perfect design. We will understand everything when we meet Him face to face; until then we continually grow toward His perfection.

Peace and Receptivity or Dire Consequences

2010-09-30T05:53:00.000-10:00

September 30, 2010

Thursday of the 26th Week of Ordinary Time

Today's Saint: Jerome

Alleluia, alleluia. The Kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the Gospel. Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Job 19:21-27
Ps 27:7-9,13-14
Luke 10:1-12
http://www.usccb.org/nab/093010.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_30.mp3

In today's Gospel, we learn that "Jesus appointed seventy-two other disciples whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit." And whenever these disciples entered a house, their first greeting is "Peace to this household;" and if the person there was peaceful and hospitable, then they were to remain there and prepare for Jesus by saying: "The Kingdom of God is at hand for you." If the town was inhospitable and did not receive his disciples, Jesus instructed them to go out into the streets and say, "The dust of your town that clings to our feet, even that we shake off against you" and move on.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with being a peaceable person and open to receive Jesus' disciples and God's Words; and being open to conversion - a willingness to change and grow - continuously. Or suffer the consequence of delaying decay and certain death (separation from God and His goodness); and Jesus' grave warning: "it will be more tolerable for Sodom on that day than for that town."

Guardian Angels and Sanity

2010-09-29T08:12:00.000-10:00

September 29, 2010

Wednesday of the 26th Week of Ordinary Time

Today's Feast: Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael

Alleluia, alleluia. Bless the Lord, all you angels, you ministers, who do his will. Alleluia, alleluia.

Insanity

= doing the same things over and over again,

while expecting different resultsI

Today's Readings:
Dan 7:9-10, 13-14 or Rev 12:7-12ab
Ps 138:1-5
John 1:47-51
http://www.usccb.org/nab/092910.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_29.mp3

Today is the Feast of our Guardian Angels, Michael, Raphael and Gabriel, who signify God's transcendence and loving care: Michael (meaning "Who is like God?"), Gabriel ("God's Strength") and Raphael ("God's Remedy"); Michael: patron of security forces and of the sick; Gabriel: patron of telecommunications and the postal service; Raphael: of travelers and the blind.

Go to Good News Ministries at http://gnm.org/ for a great reflection about our Guardian Angels.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with a helping hand from our Guardian Angels. Whenever we're stuck in mediocrity, we need to do something different, which will help our Sanity. That something different may be our first conversation with our Guardian Angel.

God's Order Rules

2010-09-28T05:56:00.000-10:00

September 28, 2010

Tuesday of the 26th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. The Son of Man came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Job 3:1-3,11-17,20-23
Ps 88:2-8
Luke 9:51-56
http://www.usccb.org/nab/092810.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_28.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus taught his disciples (and us, today) how to respond to prejudice and rejection when attempting to rest, on the way to a destination - simply move on and journey to another resting place.

Transcending Mediocrity is about making responsible adjustments in our journey to an end, by realizing that the end is more important than trivial chaos. God writes straight with crooked lines. God's order (Perfect Plan) far exceeds prejudices and rejections.

God Connects The Dots

2010-09-27T06:16:00.000-10:00

September 27, 2010

Monday of the 26th Week of Ordinary Time

Today's Saint: Vincent de Paul

Alleluia, alleluia. The Son of Man came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. Alleluia, alleluia.

God Connects the Dots…

…it’s up to us to grow our own Dots.

Today's Readings:
Job 1:6-22
Ps 17:1-3, 6-7
Luke 9:46-50
http://www.usccb.org/nab/092710.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_27.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus taught his disciples about their attitude toward children and others casting out demons in his name. Jesus disciples, like us today, can be pompous and overly proud about our achievements and at the same time take on an attitude of superiority and self-centeredness.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with discovering who God is in our lives and how he has gifted everyone with unique abilities to advance the Kingdom of God. As God creates everyone and connects each persons gifts for the common good, each of us is to continue to develop our unique gifts.

Less Than or More Than

2010-09-26T08:28:00.000-10:00

September 26, 2010

26th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C

Alleluia, alleluia. Though our Lord Jesus Christ was rich, he become poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich. Alleluia, alleluia.

Perception is NOT Reality

Today's Readings:
Amos 6:1a, 4-7
Ps 146:(1b) 7-10
1 Timothy 6:11-16
Luke 16:19-31
http://www.usccb.org/nab/092610.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:

http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_26.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus teaches a harsh, but important lessons about how the "haves" are to behave toward the "have nots;" and the meaning of eternity. Read today's Gospel twice, first from the perspective of Lazarus and then from the perspective of the rich man; and consider the differences between God's Ways and what's acceptable by society.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with understanding and acknowledging who we are now, our current mediocrity - "haves" or "have nots" - then look toward Scripture and God's Ways, and where God wants us to be while still on this earth. Are we to remain in mediocrity - in a less than desirable way of life; or a true child of God - soaring above society's norms. In a life of "make believe" perceptions; or reality, in alignment with God and His Truths?

Chaos Leads to Truth

2010-09-25T08:07:00.000-10:00

September 25, 2010

Saturday of the 25th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. Our Savior Christ Jesus destroyed death and broth life to light through the Gospel. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Eccl 11:9-12:8
Ps 90:3-6,12-12,17
Luke 9:43b-45
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/092510.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_25.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus, again tosses out a hint of his paschal mystery; but "its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying." We, today, also receive God's wisdom; but we don't understand it and are often at a loss as to asking God or others about its meaning.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with doing something about some chaos in our lives or a seemingly chaotic and encrypted message from God. That something could be a simple as sharing the chaos with one other person. Ultimately, questioning seemingly chaotic circumstances will lead to seeking God's Truths and discovering His order in His perfect universe.

Beyond Our Senses

2010-09-24T06:17:00.000-10:00

September 24, 2010

Friday of the 25th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. The Son of Man came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Eccl 3:1-11
Ps 144:1-4
Luke 9:18-22
http://www.usccb.org/nab/092410.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_24.mp3

The four Gospels do not contain everything Jesus said and did; but captured what God inspired to be contained in the Scriptures and especially the Gospels. In today's Gospel, Jesus asked his disciples two similar questions and after Peter gave a profound reply, "The Christ of God;" Jesus "rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone. And he foretold his last days on earth.

Transcending Mediocrity is about looking beyond our five human senses and responding in a way that will help the world realize God's perfectly ordered universe.

God's Way, Truth and Life

2010-09-23T06:25:00.001-10:00

September 23, 2010

Thursday of the 25th Week of Ordinary Time

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

Everyone has “The Answers” within them

Today's Readings:
Eccl 1:2-11
Ps 90:(1) 3-6,12-14,17
Luke 9:7-9
http://www.usccb.org/nab/092310.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_23.mp3

Today's short (only three verses) Gospel about Herod, the Tetrach, and his search for Jesus; is also our story. All of us are curious about who God is and from time to time we wonder about our final destiny. But and mortal, sin prone, humans our search for God is often set aside for things more tangible than the unseen.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with our search for something better and bigger. We typically begin with the tangible, which leads us to the intangible - the unseen. The Answers or God's Truths are already within each of us, from the time of our conception, as God's creation in His image. Mediocrity is denying the Answers. Transcending Mediocrity is becoming the person God created each of us to be.

God's Way or the highway

2010-09-22T05:49:00.000-10:00

September 22, 2010

Wednesday of the 25th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. The Kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the Gospel. Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
Prv 30:5-9
Ps 119:(105) 29,72,89,101,104,163
Luke 9:1-6
http://www.usccb.org/nab/092210.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_22.mp3

Today's Gospel Acclamation is more than a warning; it is God's Truth! God's Kingdom is real and near, and intended for all who believe in His Word and convert from our sinful nature to God's way of life - to be the person He created each of us to be. In today's Gospel, Jesus called his apostles (and successors, the Church) "and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. He said to them, 'Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money, and let no one take a second tunic."

Transcending Mediocrity is submitting to Jesus' Way by converting to be God's Masterpiece, willing to be shaped to His perfection; which may living as Jesus taught His apostles - to give up worldly possessions and human securities and rely on God to shape us and work through us. A transcending decision may be to leave places where we are not welcomed, to leave that place and "shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them."

God's Truth or Consequence

2010-09-21T06:00:00.000-10:00

September 21, 2010

Tuesday of the 25th Week of Ordinary Time

Today's Saint: Matthew

Alleluia, alleluia. We praise you, O God, we acclaim you as Lord; the glorious company of Apostles praise you. Alleluia, alleluia.

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
Eph 4:1-7, 11-13
Ps 19:2-5
Matt 9:9-13
http://www.usccb.org/nab/092110.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_21.mp3

Jesus' teaching in today's Gospel is to be heed by us today. "Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. God and learn the meaning of the words, I desire mercy, not sacrifice." The weaknesses of humankind is to associate with those of the same culture and background, fearful and cautious about people who are different, especially those who are ill, those who "desire mercy."

Transcending Mediocrity is a paradigm shift from our human mindset to living God's Truths; and this shift begins with continuous growth through questions, searching for God's Truths. Or suffer the consequences of decay, that results from the status quo or a life of mediocrity.

God's Light in US for All to See

2010-09-20T05:54:00.000-10:00

September 20, 2010

Monday of the 25th Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father. Alleluia, alleluia.

Think Abundance, rather than scarcity.

Today's Readings:
Prv 3:27-34
Ps 15:1-5
Luke 8:16-18
http://www.usccb.org/nab/092010.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_20.mp3

"No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bend; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light." Seeing the light or making the light visible is the theme of today's Gospel. It's logical, yet we humans tend to be illogical when it comes to letting our light shine for others to benefit.

Transcending Mediocrity is a constant growth in generosity or abundance thinking. Mediocrity is scarcity thinking - unwillingness to share our light for the benefit of others.

Abundant and Everlasting Life

2010-09-17T06:02:00.000-10:00

September 17, 2010

Friday of the 24th Week of Ordinary Time

Today's Saint: Robert Bellarmine

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

Think Abundance, rather than scarcity.

1 Cor 15:12-20
Ps 17:1bcd, 6-8b,15
Luke 8:1-3
http://www.usccb.org/nab/091710.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_17.mp3

We learn in today's Gospel that as "he journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God;" those with him were the Twelve, some women and others "who provided for them out of their resources." These women, like the Apostles, came from sordid backgrounds. And the "others;" we have no knowledge of who they were or what they did before following Jesus. Consider for a moment what it was like to be following, serving and providing for Jesus out of your resources?

Transcending Mediocrity begins with our individual decision to heed Jesus' call to follow, serve and provide for him out of our resources - time, talent and treasure. Transcending Mediocrity is shifting our mindset from self-centeredness to other-centeredness; from scarcity thinking to abundance thinking.

Chaos Leads to Order

2010-09-16T06:06:00.000-10:00

September 16, 2010

Thursday of the 24th Week of Ordinary Time

Today's Saints: Cornelius & Cyprian

Alleluia, alleluia. Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest, says the Lord. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe

Today's Readings:
1 Cor 15:1-11
Ps 118:1-2,16ab-17,28
Luke 7:36-50
http://www.usccb.org/nab/091610.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_16.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus accepted the invitation to dine in the house of a Pharisee and exhibited his love and forgiveness for a woman of ill repute. Jesus taught his lesson through a dialogue with Simon and provides us a lesson to be ever aware of opportunities for sharing God's Truth and Love.

Transcending Mediocrity is about submitting to and heeding God's Will and Perfect Plan. We're often invited to an event or to join the company of less desirable people (more secular than Christian) - these occasions may seem to be more chaotic than orderly; but the may also be opportunities to share God's Truths, Love and Order in the universe.

God's Loving Plan For Our Salvation

2010-09-15T06:18:00.000-10:00

September 15, 2010

Wednesday of the 24th Week of Ordinary Time

Today's Feast: Our Lady of Sorrow

Alleluia, alleluia. Blessed are you, O Virgin Mary; without dying you won the martyr's crown beneath the Cross of the Lord. Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
1 Cor 12:31--13:13
Ps 33:2-5,12,22
John 19:25-27 or Luke 2:33-35
http://www.usccb.org/nab/091510.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_15.mp3

The last verse in today's first Reading (1 Cor 13:13) describes God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit and the Blessed Virgin Mary; and God's Perfection - "So faith, hope and love remain, these three; but the greatest of these is love." Both of today's Gospels describe God's Perfect Love.

Transcending Mediocrity is our unique personal journey toward God's Perfection. Whereas God, the Holy Trinity, and the Blessed Virgin Mary are perfect; humans are imperfect and prone to sin and God continually calls us and shapes to toward His Perfection and Salvation.

God's Loving Plan For Our Salvation

2010-09-14T05:57:00.000-10:00

September 14, 2010

Tuesday of the 24th Week of Ordinary Time

Feast: The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Alleluia, alleluia. We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you, because by your Cross you have redeemed the world. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
Numbers 21:4b-9
Ps 78:1bc-2, 34-38 (with 7b)
Phil 2:6-11
John 3:13-17
http://www.usccb.org/nab/091410.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_14.mp3

In today's Gospel, God's Perfect Plan for this universe is presented; "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but 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." Jesus became man; though sinless, lived as man; and suffered and died on the cross for our salvation.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with our submission to God and His Plan, that we won't fully understand until we are in perfect union with God in heaven. Jesus' suffering and dying on the cross is chaos and God's Perfect Order in this universe is our salvation because of what Jesus did for us, out of God's love for us.

God's Perfect Plan

2010-09-13T05:42:00.000-10:00

September 13, 2010

Monday of the 24th Week of Ordinary Time

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. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
1 Cor 11:17-26,33
Ps 40:7-10,17
Luke 7:1-10
http://www.usccb.org/nab/091310.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_13.mp3

Perfection is Jesus' love for us and his wisdom to perform miracles for us to learn from, as demonstrated in today's Gospel. Jesus cured the slave of a pagan centurion.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with realizing the God created this universe for His reasons. Then we will begin to understand that the chaos we encounter has a purpose, a meaning or message for us to begin to look beyond ourselves and what is seen, toward God's Perfect Plan.

Conversion = Change = Transcendance

2010-09-12T07:47:00.000-10:00

September 12, 2010

24th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C

Alleluia, alleluia. God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Alleluia, alleluia.

Conversion is about Change

- overcoming Resistance to Conversion;

is based on Dissatisfaction;

Vision;

First steps;

and Support system

Next Sunday's Readings:
Exodus 32:7-11, 13-14
Ps 51:3-4, 12-13, 17, 19
1 Timothy 1:12-17
Luke 15:1-32
http://www.usccb.org/nab/091210.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_12.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus gives us three parables related to conversion, or the changes we undergo to become whole, a better person, or to become the person God created us to be. Conversion begins with some form of dissatisfaction - a lost sheep, a lost coin or the need to flee an undesirable life. A vision, goal or desired outcome is what helps us to begin our conversion. Then action - the first step - doing something, like beginning the search for what is missing or taking that first step out of that undesirable life. And finally, we need a support system - we celebrate with our family, neighbors and friends.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with some for of dissatisfaction, internally generated or from an external stimulus to our senses, such as a prompting from the Holy Spirit to transcend our current life style.

God's Truths Reign

2010-09-11T07:28:00.000-10:00

September 11, 2010

Saturday of the 23rd Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him. Alleluia, alleluia.

Perception is NOT Reality

Today's Readings:
1 Cor 10:14-22
Ps 116:12-13, 17-18
Luke 6:43-49
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/091110.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_11.mp3

Jesus provides another "either or" teaching -if we or his disciples call him "Lord, Lord;" then we are to obey his command. The teaching Jesus gave in today's Gospel is about listening to his words and acting on his words. The example he gave is about building a house - on either a solid foundation, deep and on rock, and it cannot be swept away by floods or merely on the ground without a foundation and can be easily swept away by floods.

Transcending Mediocrity is about building a solid foundation, based on sound truths - God's Truths. Mediocrity is merely living by perceptions or memorizing lessons. In order to begin transcending mediocrity, we need to question these perceptions and seek the reality of any lesson taught by man by studying God's Truths in Scripture, Apostolic Tradition, and the Magisterium.

God's Plan is Perfect

2010-09-10T05:56:00.000-10:00

September 10, 2010

Friday of the 23rd Week of Ordinary Time

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

God Connects the Dots…

…it’s up to us to grow our own Dots.

Today's Readings:
1 Cor 9:16-19,22b-27
Ps 84:2-6, 12
Luke 6:39-42
http://www.usccb.org/nab/091010.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_10.mp3

In today's Gospel Jesus is direct in teaching his disciples and us, today, about not judging or criticizing or fixing others; without first judging, criticizing and fixing ourselves first. "Remove the wooden beam from your own eye first; then you will see clearly to remove the splinter in your brother's eye."

Transcending Mediocrity is about letting God's Perfect Plan unfold, without our interference; while we work of being the person God created us to be, and allowing others to do likewise.

God Is Love And So Are We

2010-09-09T05:46:00.000-10:00

September 9, 2010

Thursday of the 23rd Week of Ordinary Time

Today's Saint: Peter Claver

Alleluia, alleluia. If we love one another, God remains in us, and his love is brought to perfection in us. Alleluia, alleluia.

Each of us is God's Masterpiece,

being shaped to perfection.

Today's Readings:
1 Cor 8:1b-7,11-13
Ps 139:1b-3,13-14ab,23-24
Luke 6:27-38
http://www.usccb.org/nab/090910.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_09.mp3

God is love. That's the message of today's Gospel. God created all of humankind in His image; therefore God created all of us to be love - His perfection.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with shifting from self-centered to becoming the person God created all of us to be - other-centered or love. Saint Peter Claver exemplified God's Love, as the patron saint of Colombia and of all missions to black peoples.

God's Perfect Pland and Humor

2010-09-08T06:01:00.000-10:00

September 8, 2010

Wednesday of the 23rd Week of Ordinary Time

Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

God’s Sense of Humor is Wild and Wonderful

Today's Readings:
Romans 8:28-30 (or Micah 5:1-4)
Ps 13:6
Matt 1:1-16, 18-23
http://www.usccb.org/nab/090810.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_08.mp3

Today is the Feast of the birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who was destined by God to give birth to the Son of God. And today's Gospel from Matthew opens with the genealogy of Jesus, whose ancestors of his father, Joseph (who married the Blessed Virgin Mother), lists people whose sins are recorded in the Bible's Old Testament. Jesus' ancestors are far from what we would expect to be the forefathers and "foremothers" of the Son of God, yet this was God's Perfect Design.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with realizing that God is in control and that His Plan for us is perfect; and that only God knows when and how events will occur. In hindsight, such as looking back at Jesus' ancestors and birth from the Blessed Virgin Mother, can we appreciate God's Wild and Wonderful Sense of Humor.

God's Perfect Universe

2010-09-07T05:54:00.000-10:00

September 7, 2010

Tuesday of the 23rd Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. I chose you from the world, that you may go and bear fruit that will last, says the Lord. Alleluia, alleluia.

What appears to be Chaos,

in the moment,

is Order in the Universe.

Today's Readings:
1 Cor 6:1-11
Ps 149:1b-6a, 9b
Luke 6:12-19
http://www.usccb.org/nab/090710.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_07.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus chose his twelve Apostles from among his numerous disciples. Only twelve were chose to begin is Apostolic Succession. These chosen ones continued Jesus' ministry, which became the mission of the Church. Everyone is created by God and therefore has a particular role in the mission of the Church.

Transcending Mediocrity is bearing fruit that will last, by responding to our unique, God-given role in the mission of the Church. This journey from mediocrity typically beings with a chaos; then prayer, as demonstrated by Jesus in today's Gospel. All things are possible with God, so when we respond to God, in prayer, doors of opportunity will open for us to learn about the fruits we are to bear and begin to realize God's Perfect Plan for His Universe.

Sabbath Good

2010-09-06T05:50:00.000-10:00

September 6, 2010
Monday of the 23rd Week of Ordinary Time

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

Everyone has “The Answers” within them

Today's Readings:
1 Cor. 5:1-8
Ps 5:5-7, 12
Luke 6:6-11
http://www.usccb.org/nab/090610.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_06.mp3

God's Truth, through Jesus' actions in the Gospels, is our guide to perfection in God's eyes. In today's Gospel, Jesus again does something on a sabbath the raises the ire of the Pharisees. God's Truth is "to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it" - the third Commandment, honor the sabbath.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with exercising the gifts God gave each of us, and being created in His image, we have "the Answers" within us; so rather than blindly adhering to man's ways of honoring the sabbath, we are to seek God's Truths and do the good He created us for.

Discipleship is a Calling

2010-09-05T05:45:00.000-10:00

September 5, 2010

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C

Alleluia, alleluia. Let your face shine upon our servant; and teach me your laws. Alleluia, alleluia.

Everyone has “The Answers” within them

Next Sunday's Readings:
Wisdom 9:13-18b
Ps 90:(1) 3-6, 12-17
Philemon 9-10, 12-17
Luke 14:25-33

http://www.usccb.org/nab/090510.shtml

USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_05.mp3

In today's Gospel Acclamation, we ask God to teach us His laws and Jesus fulfills our request in today's Gospel by telling us one of God's laws - "anyone of you who does not renounce all his possessions cannot be my disciple." Most of today's "wannabe disciples" probably recoiled at this law and probably thought that it is meant for someone else or that it must be literally understood and we minimize it.

Transcending Mediocrity is living God's laws and Truths. Because God created us in His image, even though we are prone to sinfulness, we know in the depths of our heart the “The Answers” within our being. The difficulty is that we do want to be one of Jesus' disciples, but on our own terms. God's ways are transcendent. Our ways are mediocre.

Grow Toward God's Perfecton

2010-09-04T07:46:00.000-10:00

September 4, 2010

Saturday of the 22nd Week of Ordinary Time

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

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
1 Cor4:6b-15
Ps 145:17-21
Luke 6:1-5
http://www.usccb.org/nab/readings/090410.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_04.mp3

"The Son of Man is the lord of the sabbath." This was Jesus' response to some Pharisees, when they challenged his disciples were picking the heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands, and eating them on a sabbath. People being human and imperfect, often impose the strict letter of the law rather than the spirit of the law. And Jesus enlightens us, today, to seek and abide in God's Truths.

Transcending Mediocrity is about continuous growth toward God's Perfection, by reading His Word (Scripture) and pondering His Message for us today. If we merely accept man's letter of the law, we are forever doomed to the status quo and sure decay; but when we seek God's Truths, which is often contrary to what man has taught us, we will grow toward God's Perfection and be the persons God created us to be.

Status quo = decay

2010-09-03T05:47:00.000-10:00

September 3, 2010

Friday of the 22nd Week of Ordinary Time

Today's Saint: Gregory the Great

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

We’re either Growing or Decaying;

choose Growth

- any attempt to foster the status quo

is a futile effort in delaying decay

Today's Readings:
1 Cor 4:1-5
Ps 37:3-6,27-28,39-40
Luke 5:33-39
http://www.usccb.org/nab/090310.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_03.mp3

Jesus Christ is the light of the world and in today's Gospel Jesus describes himself as the bridegroom, alluding that his disciples (and us today) are his bride. While the disciples are with Jesus, fasting is unnecessary; but after Jesus is apart from us, fasting and sadness are the norm. And Jesus taught in a parable that combining the old with the new results in a loss of both.

Transcending Mediocrity is a forward movement; and any effort to dwell on the past results in prolonged mediocrity. Either grow and move forward or decay and mediocrity.

Insanity Changed the World

2010-09-02T06:04:00.000-10:00

September 2, 2010

Thursday of the 22nd Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. Come after me, says the Lord, and I will make you fishers of men. Alleluia, alleluia.

Insanity

= doing the same things over and over again,

while expecting different results

Today's Readings:
1 Cor 3:18-23
Ps 24:1-6
Luke 5:1-11
http://www.usccb.org/nab/090210.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_02.mp

In today's Gospel, the thought of INSANITY may have run through the minds of Simon Peter and the others, when Jesus beckoned them to "Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch." Simon responded, "Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at our command I will lower the nets." They caught a great number of fish and after the amazement abated, Jesus said to Simon, "do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men." And Simon, James and John left everything (boats, nets, fish, family) and followed Jesus - INSANITY!

Transcending Mediocrity is INSANITY! But when directed by God, radical changes positively affects the world!

God's Perfect Plan

2010-09-01T05:57:00.000-10:00

September 1, 2010

Wednesday of the 22nd Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. The Lord sent me to bring glad tidings to the poor and to proclaim liberty to captives. Alleluia, alleluia.

God Connects the Dots…

…it’s up to us to grow our own Dots.

Today's Readings:
1 Cor 3:1-9
Ps 33:12-15, 20-21
Luke 4:38-44
http://www.usccb.org/nab/090110.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_09_01.mp3

In today's Gospel, we learn of Jesus' ministry, "To the other towns also I must proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God, because for this purpose I have been sent." Jesus publicly acknowledged his direction from God, so too, each of us have been created by God for a unique purpose - a specific role in God's Perfect Plan.

Transcending Mediocrity is about being the person God created each of us to be and recognizing our specific role in His Perfect Plan. Growing our on Dots (perfecting the person God created) is living our unique role in His Master Plan of connecting Dots.

Perception vs Reality

2010-08-31T05:52:00.000-10:00

August 31, 2010

Tuesday of the 22nd Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. A great prophet has arisen in our midst and God has visited his people. Alleluia, alleluia.

Perception is NOT Reality

Today's Readings:
1 Cor 2:10-16
Ps 145:8-14
Luke 4:31-37
http://www.usccb.org/nab/083110.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_08_31.mp3

Put yourself in 33 AD, on a sabbath, in Capernum, in the synagogue; and you experience a loud commotion and hear with a loud voice, "What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are - the Holy One of God.!" How would you react? Read today's Gospel and learn about the power Jesus has over evil.

Transcending Mediocrity begins with distinguishing between good and evil, seeking God's Truth amidst cunning deception, distractions and loud voices. We transcend mediocrity when we distinguish between perception and reality.

God's Truths Through Plan and His Humor

2010-08-30T05:56:00.000-10:00

August 30, 2010

Monday of the 22nd Week of Ordinary Time

Alleluia, alleluia. The Spirit of the Lord is upon me; he has sent me to bring glad tidings to the poor. Alleluia, alleluia.

God’s Sense of Humor is Wild and Wonderful

Today's Readings:
1 Cor 2:1-5
Ps 119:97-102
Luke 4:16-30
http://www.usccb.org/nab/083010.shtml
USCCB Podcast of the Readings:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/10_08_30.mp3

In today's Gospel, Jesus is in his home town of Nazareth and while in the synagogue on the sabbath day; he stood up to read from a scroll of the prophet Isaiah. He began reading with today's Gospel Acclamation and after he rolled up the scroll he declared, "Today this Scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing." The first reaction was amazement; but as Jesus revealed Truths about what he read, the amazement turned to threatening indignation, to which Jesus replied, "Amen I say to you, no prophet is accepted in his own native place."

Transcending Mediocrity begins with our search for God's Truths and the willingness to accept God's Truths, without bias about the speaker's origins or past. In hindsight, we realize God's Perfect Plan and His sense of humor.