WEEK EIGHTEEN: CRUCIFIXION AND DEATH DAY 1



WEEK EIGHTEEN: CRUCIFIXION AND DEATH DAY 1



MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer on John 19: 25-27: Jesus hands His Mother and John to each other "Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, "Woman, behold your son." Then he said to the disciple, "Behold, your mother." And from that hour the disciple took her into his home."

Read the Reflection; then pray using John 19: 25-27; ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

Only John tells us that Our Lady was present at her son's crucifixion and death. As a mother, Mary must have wondered about the rest of the disciples who abandoned Jesus. As a devout Jewess, she must have wondered how it was possible for the Jewish leadership to be so prejudiced against her son. Yet from her own experience of the human condition, as she experienced and observed it in her son's kenosis and her own, she must have had His disposition: "Father, forgive them; they do not know what they are doing." (Luke 23: 34) In this final act of love, before He surrendered His life to His Father on our behalf, Jesus engages in an amazing act of covenant love and union. He bequeaths to His mother a special mission, in fact, the continuation of the same mission that was given to her at the Annunciation: to be the mother of His covenant family, with whom He has become one, and symbolized by John the beloved disciple. And in handing His mother to the safe-keeping of His beloved disciple, Jesus was asking His covenant family to always accord her a special place of honor and reverence in our hearts, similar to the honor and reverence Jesus, along with the Father and the Holy Spirit, always had for her. This has been the Church's understanding of the special connection between Mary, Mother of God, and God's Church, also known as God's covenant family.

The dying commandment of the Son of Man, I pondered it this morning.  Jesus has been on the cross a little less than six hours, close to death, His body screaming at Him, full of pain and sin.  What is His thoughts at this time?  "Love thy neighbor as thyself.", His only thought is of the other, the pain that is there does not effect His clarity of mind.   We try to remove the pain in our lives, can we live with the pain and still do the will of God?  Can we place other before self?  It is purity of heart that gives Jesus strength, while everything in Him aches, His heart is on fire for God.  Daily prayer and having a conversations with our Father is all I know to do to get there.  

If we are called disciples as Jesus called John one then Mary, our mother, is a big part of your life.  Mary is clearly in the heart of God, she is pure as she endures the same pain that Jesus did.  

What is God saying to you? Be still and recognize the gift of your senses in the midst of your day, this will help you live within My heart.  Tune everything else out and do not act upon it.   

Dear Father, You know my heart and You know my weaknesses, You see the struggle that goes on within and You know I am weak.  I thank You for not being numb to this, to having the desire to deal with it as You did.   Prayers for those who chose to numb their senses with things of this world, with the trappings of life, without You.  Watch over this day Lord, make us Ardent disciples and give us the Sacred heart of Jesus, Amen.  

Mary, Virgin Most Powerful, Pray for us.
St Joesph, Most Prudent, Pray for us.
Viva Cristo Rey 

https://youtu.be/Ejrg3zXOW-k

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK SEVENTEEN: SENTENCE OF DEATH AND PASSION DAY 6



WEEK SEVENTEEN: SENTENCE OF DEATH AND PASSION DAY 6

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

REPETITION OF DAYS FOUR AND FIVE:
Ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

Today, you are doing a repetition of Days Four and Five of this week. In a repetition St. Ignatius says that "we should pay attention to and dwell upon those points in which we have experienced greater consolation or desolation or greater spiritual appreciation." (# 62) If you wish, you can do a triple colloquy: refer to #63 of the Third Exercise of the First Week.

Day 4 Prayer on Luke 22: 58-62: Peter's Denial of Jesus:"...About an hour later, still another insisted, "Assuredly, this man too was with him, for he is a Galilean." But Peter said, "My friend, I do not know what you are talking about." Just as he was saying this, the cock crowed, and the Lord turned and looked at Peter; and Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the cock crows today, you will deny my three times." He went out and began to weep bitterly" [Please read Luke 22: 54- 65 for a better appreciation of the passage].

Day 5 Prayer on Luke 23: 22-25: Jesus is sentenced to Death: "Pilate addressed them a third time, "What evil has this man done? I found him guilty of no capital crime. Therefore I shall have him flogged and then release him." With loud shouts, however, they persisted in calling for his crucifixion, and their voices prevailed. The verdict of Pilate was that their demand should be granted...He handed Jesus over to them to deal with as they wished." [Please read Luke 23: 18-25 for a better appreciation of the passage].

The denial of Christ, Peter and Pilate both denied Him, their thoughts were on self, how they would be perceived, Pilate tried but gave in, Peter felt helpless being a lone voice.  The Triune God on the other hand is other focused, Jesus knew the mission, He loves each of us and His focus is on other.  Yet even in this there was loneliness, no one would speak up for Him, He was isolated, His efforts seemed wasted.  Jesus died with you on His mind, that is His focus.  Our lives are but a bleep in time, see what God see's, live what God lives, have the heart of Jesus.  

What is God saying to you?

Dear Father, I thank You for the grace to watch You bring prayer to life, to witness to Your love.  As we journey with You this week, may we see and feel what Your passion is all about.  Prayers for a friend with a good heart living for self, help Him feel Your pain Lord as You died on the cross for us.  I ask this in Jesus name, Amen. 

Mary, Our Lady of Sorrows, Pray for us. 

St Joesph, Protector of the Holy Family, Pray for us. 

Viva Cristo Rey 

https://youtu.be/CR0mV9oXOEE

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK SEVENTEEN: SENTENCE OF DEATH AND PASSION DAY 5



WEEK SEVENTEEN: SENTENCE OF DEATH AND PASSION DAY 5

MORNING PRAYER: Act of Faith; Act of Hope; Act of Charity; Daily Offering

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer on Luke 23: 22-25: Jesus is sentenced to Death: "Pilate addressed them a third time, "What evil has this man done? I found him guilty of no capital crime. Therefore I shall have him flogged and then release him." With loud shouts, however, they persisted in calling for his crucifixion, and their voices prevailed. The verdict of Pilate was that their demand should be granted...He handed Jesus over to them to deal with as they wished." [Please read Luke 23: 18-25 for a better appreciation of the passage].

Read the Reflection; then pray using Luke 23: 22-25; ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

This court in which Jesus is being sentenced to death is rigged. The Jewish leadership is clearly following the line, 'guilty unless proven innocent.' And they follow this line blindly, because they are blinded by their own devious purposes. So they shamelessly choose the release of Barabbas, a murderer and rabble-rouser, and the death of Jesus. Pilate knows that Jesus is innocent. He even tells the crowd that he finds Jesus guilty of no capital crime. Yet he capitulates to the demands of the Jewish leadership and the mob that they brought along with them. Such injustice could be infuriating to behold and accept, if it were not for the fact that Jesus was going to his crucifixion and death as the Lamb of sacrifice that was slain on our behalf. And that we are the Jewish leadership and the mob, and Pilate, because it was our sins that crucified Jesus. Once again the contrast between Jesus' demeanor and the actions of Pilate, the Jewish leadership, and the mob, is indescribable. During your prayer, ask to enter into the mind and heart of Jesus that inspired such demeanor.

Crucify Him, Crucify Him, are we willing to stand against the mob?  I sat this evening and enjoyed the end of a beautiful day, contemplating the mob.  Jesus as the Lamb of God being lead to His slaughter and Him going peacefully with no condemnation in His Spirit.  He knew the whole story, He knows the outcome and He trusts in His Father.  His hour has come, and He is prepared.  How about us, will we be prepared as Jesus was?  Will we be like the crowd and go along to get along?  It all falls back upon prayer and the gifts of the Holy Spirit, trusting in the Father that there is a greater plan in play with all that is going on.  Listen to the heart of God and be in peace even in your weakness He is working all things out.  Have a Blessed Holy Week, travel with Jesus as He walks the Villa DelaRosa.  

What is God saying to you?

Dear Lord God, in the stillness You are there admist the busyness of life.  Help us listen to Your will, allow us to see You at work and may we become more open to Your Holy Spirit.   Thank You Father for sending Your Son to die and pay the price for my sins, may my life reflect the price He paid.  Prayers of thanksgiving for Your grace to sit still and listen, to witness to the love that You show us through others.  Thank You Father for Your faithful servants who give us the Bread of Life in the Holy Mass.  I ask this in Jesus name, Amen.

Mary, Our Lady of Victory, Pray for us.
St Joesph, Most Faithful, Pray for us.
Viva Cristo Rey.  

https://youtu.be/_i5NYIOe4pQ

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK SEVENTEEN: SENTENCE OF DEATH AND PASSION DAY 4



WEEK SEVENTEEN: SENTENCE OF DEATH AND PASSION DAY 4



MORNING PRAYER: Act of Faith; Act of Hope; Act of Charity; Daily Offering

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer on Luke 22: 58-62: Peter's Denial of Jesus:"...About an hour later, still another insisted, "Assuredly, this man too was with him, for he is a Galilean." But Peter said, "My friend, I do not know what you are talking about." Just as he was saying this, the cock crowed, and the Lord turned and looked at Peter; and Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the cock crows today, you will deny my three times." He went out and began to weep bitterly" [Please read Luke 22: 54- 65 for a better appreciation of the passage].

Read the Reflection; then pray using Luke 22: 58-62; ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).
In the Upper Room, Jesus predicted that his disciples' faith in him would be shaken. Peter insisted that his faith would not be shaken and that he would even die with his Master. It is then that Jesus predicted Peter's denial of him. The heart-rending account of Peter's denial is painful to read. In his first denial to the maid, Peter said that he did not know Jesus. The second time his accusers insisted that Peter was one of Jesus' disciples, and Peter denied the truth. The third time, his accusers insisted that Peter was Jesus' disciple because he too was a Galilean like Jesus. Once again Peter denied the truth. Mark's version is quite graphic: "He began to curse and to swear, "I do not know this man about whom you are talking." (Mark 14: 71) It is then that the cock crowed and "the Lord turned and looked at Peter." (Luke 22: 61) Peter remembered what Jesus had said to him in the Upper Room. One could spend hours pondering on the gaze exchanged between Jesus and Peter. As this painful saga unfolded, Peter's faith and commitment to his Master sank into the dregs. In a jiffy, three years of discipleship careened towards disaster. The saving grace was that Peter stayed with the community of disciples in the Upper Room.

Peter has been living a fairly safe life with Jesus.  He had been attending Church, been following Jesus and listening to Jesus.  He had seen the joys of people being healed, he had it pretty comfortable, in his own mind he was in a good place.  How many of us are living in this safe place, Church attendance, faithful prayer life, an all around good person.  Peter had been living in a community of believers not having to go beyond now the court yard was different, he was being challenged.  The opportunities that God gives us to proclaim Him are there in our lives, will we be known as one of his followers or will we deny who He is by our actions.  When we go beyond and claim who He is we are releasing the Holy Spirit to go to work, we get to see Jesus in action.  Peter denied Him but he learned from this and became an ardent disciple because of it.  

What is God saying to you?  Witness My love today.

Dear Father, we are blessed to see you in action through others who claim who You are by their actions.  To witness the Holy Spirit impact the world around us brings new life, brings joy to others and pleases You.  Thank You Father for this day and the quiet morning listening to the birds chirp.  Watch over us this day, give us courage when we are called upon in the courtyard.  Bless this day and all it has to offer, Amen.  

Mary, Our Lady of Victory, Pray for us

St Joesph, Chaste Spouse of the Mother of God, Pray For us. 

https://youtu.be/dCE6x9mOBxU

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK SEVENTEEN: SENTENCE OF DEATH AND PASSION DAY 3



WEEK SEVENTEEN: SENTENCE OF DEATH AND PASSION DAY 3

MORNING PRAYER: Act of Faith; Act of Hope; Act of Charity; Daily Offering

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:

Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit REPETITION OF DAYS ONE AND TWO:

Ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

Today, you are doing a repetition of Days One and Two of this week. In a repetition St. Ignatius says that "we should pay attention to and dwell upon those points in which we have experienced greater consolation or desolation or greater spiritual appreciation." (# 62) If you wish, you can do a triple colloquy: refer to #63 of the Third Exercise of the First Week.

The power of prayer, Jesus knowing the word of God as Son of Man, knowing what is coming hits his knees.  In our times of trials when we turn to God for help, for strength, He provides.  Jesus meets Judas and the soldiers and is quite different, he is I AM.  He accepts what is coming, He is indifferent for God is in control.  Either a short life or long life, good health or bad health, rich or poor, when we turn to God and rely upon the strength that He gives, you know that you have the strength to face what is coming.  

What is God saying to you?  I make crooked paths straight, accept the strength I give and endure the pain.  No suffering, no joy for you stand against the world in contrast to it.  

Dear Father, I thank You for the blessings of this day, I thank You for the crooked roads being made straight, I look forward to the place we have prepared together.  Prayers for all those facing trials, may they see and receive the power of prayer in their lives.  Prayers for a mother grieving the loss of a son, give her strength Lord to finish the race.  I ask this in Jesus name, the Victor of the race, Amen.  

Mary, Queen of Peace, Pray for us.  

Joesph, Most Faithful, Pray for us. 

Viva Cristo Rey 

https://youtu.be/kv5xc0FULM0

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK SEVENTEEN: SENTENCE OF DEATH AND PASSION DAY 2



WEEK SEVENTEEN: SENTENCE OF DEATH AND PASSION DAY 2



MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:

Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer on John 18: 4-8: The Arrest of Jesus:

"Jesus, knowing everything that was going to happen to him, went out and said to them, "Whom are you looking for?" They answered him, "Jesus the Nazorean." He said to them, "I AM." Judas his betrayer was also with them. When he said to them, "I AM," they turned away and fell to the ground. So he again asked them, "Whom are you looking for?" They said, "Jesus the Nazorean." Jesus answered, "I told you that I AM. So if you are looking for me, let these men go." [Please read John 18: 1-14 for a better appreciation of the passage].

Read the Reflection; then pray using John 18: 4-8; ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

The encounter between Jesus and the band of soldiers led by Judas makes several things clear. One, Jesus was going to His crucifixion and death of His own accord. The Jewish leadership was totally invested in projecting Jesus as a heretic and criminal, worthy of capital punishment. Hence, they were orchestrating His crucifixion and death! In the encounter, however, Jesus' view prevails. He lets His arresters know that He is I AM. Immediately, Judas and his band turned away and fell to the ground! They could arrest Him only because Jesus allowed them. Two, in demonstrating His divinity, Jesus was making it clear that His mission on earth was to bring salvation to the whole world. He could be our Savior because He is God! Lastly, a sharp contrast is evident between the actions of Judas and the soldiers, and Jesus' behavior. There is a majestic and noble sweep about Jesus' actions. He is totally other-than Judas and the soldiers. Jesus is Holy. Jesus is God!

Knowing everything that was going to happen to Him.  God always reveals what He is going to do and the question He asks is whom are YOU looking for?  God freely accepts our sins upon Him to die on the cross and He asks the question.  What will we do with the free gift of eternal life?  Will we squander it as Judas did, will we make a mess of it as Peter did but figure it out in the end?  Next week we enter into Holy Week, I suggest that you enter in with the knowledge that God, the Great I AM, gives you and take an accounting of your life.  Are you living wisely filled with the knowledge that God gives those whom He is communion with or will you let life interfere and become distracted possibly facing the trials that Judas faced.  

What is God saying to you? Live in the presence of the sacrifice.  I freely accepted the will of My Father knowing it would change lives and bring Him joy, will you do the same?

Dear Father, I sit in Your Presence in awe of what You are doing, I am overwhelmed by the commitment that You made for us individually.  In our daily conversations, You reveal the majesty of Heaven, You share moments of joy along with moments of suffering.  I thank You for all the graces You bestow upon us, especially the grace of life. Wake the sleeping Lord to the joy they are missing by not offering up their treasure of time with You.  Prayers for a young lady recovering from surgery who is filled with Your joy, bring her back to full health and peace.  I ask this in Jesus name, Amen. 

Mary, Queen of Peace, Pray for us. 

St Joesph, Patriarch of David, Pray for us. 

Viva Cristo Rey 

https://youtu.be/iedugmY4_LI

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK SEVENTEEN: SENTENCE OF DEATH AND PASSION DAY 1



WEEK SEVENTEEN: SENTENCE OF DEATH AND PASSION DAY 1

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer on Luke 22: 42-44: The Agony in the Garden: "Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me; still, not my will but yours be done." [And to strengthen him an angel from heaven appeared to him. He was in such agony and he prayed so fervently that his sweat became like drops of blood falling on the ground]." [Please read Luke 22: 39-46 for a better appreciation of the passage].

Read the Reflection; then pray using Luke 22: 42-44; ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).
Jesus'Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane is heart-rending. It is a most vulnerable period in Jesus' passion and crucifixion experience. Jesus is confronted with what is to come. Understandably, "He was in such agony and he prayed so fervently that his sweat became like drops of blood falling on the ground." He chose Peter, James, and John to be with him during this very significant moment in His inexorable journey to crucifixion on Calvary. He had chosen them at other significant moments to be with Him. They were with Him during His transfiguration, to better prepare them for Jesus' forthcoming crucifixion, death, and resurrection. But they were of little help to Him during His agony. Luke tells us that Jesus found them sleeping from grief (verse 45). Mark tells us that Jesus found them asleep three times. They just did not keep watch with Jesus during His most painful and vulnerable agony. And Jesus Himself was so overwhelmed with the specter of his passion, crucifixion, and death, that He prayed, saying, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me; still, not my will but yours be done." In accepting His Father's will, Jesus became our Suffering Servant, and by His stripes we have been healed."  Taken from Mold me as Your Disciple by Dr Michael Fonseca

What is God saying to you?  He died for you.

Dear Father, have mercy on me, a sinner.  Amen.  

https://youtu.be/-ONewbtRuJ4

Mary, Queen of Peace, Pray for us.
St Joesph, Most Strong, Pray for us.
Viva Cristo Rey  

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK SIXTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 7



WEEK SIXTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 7



MORNING PRAYER: Act of Faith; Act of Hope; Act of Charity; Daily Offering

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

APPLICATION OF THE SENSES: #121-12 Apply your senses to those points in the two repetitions where you experienced consolation or desolation, or greater spiritual appreciation. Ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

#121 tells us that this method of prayer "will consist in applying the five senses to the matter" at hand.

#122 asks you to see in imagination the persons, contemplating in detail their circumstances and then drawing some fruit from what has been seen.

#123 asks you to hear what they are saying or might say, and by reflecting on oneself to draw some profit.

#124 asks you to smell the infinite fragrance, and taste the infinite sweetness of the divinity present in the mystery being contemplated.

#125 asks you to apply the sense of touch, for example, by embracing and kissing the place where the persons stand or are seated.

#126 asks you to end with a colloquy.

What is God saying to you?  It is part of the journey, accept it.

Prayer by Blessed Charles De Foucauld

Father, I abandon myself into your hands;  do with me what you will.  Whatever you may do, I thank you: I am ready for all, I accept all.  

Let only your will be done in me, and in all your creatures - I wish no more than this, O Lord.  

Into your hands I commend my soul: I offer it to you with all the love of my heart, for I love you, Lord, and so need to give myself, to surrender myself into your hands without reserve, and with boundless confidence, for you are my Father. 

Blessed Charles de Foucauld

Mary, Mother of Love, Pray for us. 

Joesph, Protector of the Holy Family, Pray for us. 

Viva Cristo Rey 

https://youtu.be/DyzbpBR1KOI

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK SIXTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 6



WEEK SIXTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 6

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:

Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

REPETITION OF DAYS FOUR AND FIVE:
Ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

Today, you are doing a repetition of Days Four and Five of this week. In a repetition St. Ignatius says that "we should pay attention to and dwell upon those points in which we have experienced greater consolation or desolation or greater spiritual appreciation." (# 62) If you wish, you can do a triple colloquy: refer to #63 of the Third Exercise of the First Week.

Day 4 Prayer on John 16: 13-15: The Advocate's Role:"He will not speak on his own, but he will speak what he hears, and will declare to you the things that are coming. He will glorify me, because he will take from what is mine and declare it to you. Everything that the Father has is mine; for this reason I told you that he will take from what is mine and declare it to you."

Day 5 Prayer on John 17: 20-22: Jesus' Prayer for Us: "I pray not only for them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one..." [Please read John 17: 20-26 for a better appreciation of the passage].

I contemplated the sorrows of Jesus this morning as I listened to His words.  I see Jesus in the upper room speaking to the Disciples prior to His ascension.  He knows the challenges that we face each day, the struggles to make the time to be in His presence.  He also knows the benefits of having this time with God, He knows the glory of Heaven and what awaits us by following Him.   This is one of His sorrows, life getting in the way for making time for God.  Allowing our pride and empire building take the place of peace and humility.  His response is always one with love, of encouragement to be at peace during the day and not just in our morning face to face.  Being a contemplative in action as you go about your day, Jesus did it and so can we, it begins with a consistent prayer life.  

What is God saying to you?  Use the time I give you to the best of your abilities, that is all I ask of you. 

Dear Father, it is a struggle to live in the world that listens to the noise of the day, that responds to their own selfish desires and to walk as you do.  I ask for help to overcome my own weaknesses and to witness to the love that You freely give.  I pray for the blindness that can overcome our lives to not be able to see You or hear You and unknowing do the will of the evil one.  Prayers for the family Lord that is under attack, for the courage to step up and follow Your will in our lives.  I ask this in Your most holy name, Jesus Christ, Amen. 

Mary, Queen of Peace, Pray for us. 

St Joesph, Terror of Demons, Pray for us. 

Viva Cristo Rey. 

https://youtu.be/__NkfAkOrCU

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK SIXTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 5



WEEK SIXTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 5

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:

Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer on John 17: 20-22: Jesus' Prayer for Us: "I pray not only for them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one..." [Please read John 17: 20-26 for a better appreciation of the passage].

Read the Reflection; then pray using John 17: 20-26; ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

Christ's prayer for all believers is very heartening. Jesus prays for all those who will believe through the word/preaching of his disciples, and that their preaching will bring about unity that is patterned on Trinitarian unity: "I pray not only for them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that the world may believe that you sent me." (verse 20-21) Jesus has shared with us the glory which the Father gave Him, namely the Father's manifestation through His Son, Jesus. Jesus will be glorified in us through our witness of Him. Through our witness as disciples we will make Jesus present in and to the world. Jesus is interceding at the right hand of the Father that His prayer will be fulfilled in our lives. Our task is to offer our lives to the Holy Spirit's keeping and guidance, generously and joyfully.

Jesus prayer for us, He is the vine we are the branches and His hope is that through Him we go and bare fruit.  "I in them and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me."  ‭‭John‬ ‭17:23‬  The Father - Son relationship is the foundation of our faith, being connected as one and communicating with each other.  With Christ on the inside(I in them), we are drawn to God, our hearts are at rest when He is there.  There is only one way and it is in Jesus, be imitaters of Him, take the time to sit and visit with Our Father in Heaven.  He has endured all pain suffering and joy and He has the words of everlasting life.  

What is God saying to you?  You have work to do, live in the spirit of the law and be in prayer.  

Dear Father, you see the pressures of this life, the constant demand of our time yet You encourage us to live in peace with You no matter the circumstances.  I offer this day up to You, may it be pleasing in Your sight.  Prayers of thanksgiving for the Heavenly food received this morning, may it nourish me body, mind and soul and transform me into Your image.  Thank You for the gifts this past week, continue to build the foundation Lord for a glorious tomorrow.  I ask this in Jesus name, Amen.  

Mary, Queen of the Holy Rosary, Pray for us. 

St Joesph, Watchful Defender of Christ, Pray for us. 

Viva Cristo Rey 

https://youtu.be/XI2xeJwrTt0

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK SIXTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 4

WEEK SIXTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 4

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer on Luke 22: 58-62: Peter's Denial of Jesus:"...About an hour later, still another insisted, "Assuredly, this man too was with him, for he is a Galilean." But Peter said, "My friend, I do not know what you are talking about." Just as he was saying this, the cock crowed, and the Lord turned and looked at Peter; and Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the cock crows today, you will deny my three times." He went out and began to weep bitterly" [Please read Luke 22: 54- 65 for a better appreciation of the passage].

Read the Reflection; then pray using Luke 22: 58-62; ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

In the Upper Room, Jesus predicted that his disciples' faith in him would be shaken. Peter insisted that his faith would not be shaken and that he would even die with his Master. It is then that Jesus predicted Peter's denial of him. The heart-rending account of Peter's denial is painful to read. In his first denial to the maid, Peter said that he did not know Jesus. The second time his accusers insisted that Peter was one of Jesus' disciples, and Peter denied the truth. The third time, his accusers insisted that Peter was Jesus' disciple because he too was a Galilean like Jesus. Once again Peter denied the truth. Mark's version is quite graphic: "He began to curse and to swear, "I do not know this man about whom you are talking." (Mark 14: 71) It is then that the cock crowed and "the Lord turned and looked at Peter." (Luke 22: 61) Peter remembered what Jesus had said to him in the Upper Room. One could spend hours pondering on the gaze exchanged between Jesus and Peter. As this painful saga unfolded, Peter's faith and commitment to his Master sank into the dregs. In a jiffy, three years of discipleship careened towards disaster. The saving grace was that Peter stayed with the community of disciples in the Upper Room.

God knows us better than we know ourselves.  Jesus knew Peter had not yet fully accepted Him as the messiah, He knew Peter's discipleship was built upon his own strength and not that of God.  He knew his commitment and he would follow but deny Him to save himself.  In what ways do I do this throughout my day, have I fully accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior in all my trials?  The gaze between Jesus and Peter was one with love, knowing his weaknesses and loving him anyway, the other with sorrow for letting the Master down.  In this trial, Peter's discipleship was being strengthened, didn't seem like it for Peter but Jesus knew he had to answer the question he had, was Jesus the Messiah?  The same question we all must answer and with love, Jesus will be your strength if we will look into His eyes.  

What is God saying to you?  Gaze into my eyes today, what do you see?

Dear Father, You give us free will to chose our path in life, Heaven or Hell.  The time we spend here on earth will prepare us for eternity, may I never forget to look into Your eyes, may I not lean upon my own strength but Yours.  May my discipleship be authentic and real at all times for You know the truth.  Prayers for those blinded by their own desires and miss the crowing of the rooster, and miss the loving embrace of You.  Prayers for a mother in pain, help her endure this trial.  Thank You for a blessed day, looking forward to the fruit it will bring.  I ask this in Jesus name, Amen. 

Mary, Mother of Love, Pray for us. 

St Joesph, Hope of the Sick, Pray for us.  

Viva Cristo Rey. 

https://youtu.be/dHJPwI1Qioo

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK SIXTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 2



WEEK SIXTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 2

DAY TWO: MORNING SESSION
MORNING PRAYER: Act of Faith; Act of Hope; Act of Charity; Daily Offering

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer on John 16: 8-11: The Advocate's Role: "And when he comes he will convict the world in regard to sin and righteousness and condemnation: sin, because they do not believe in me; righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you will no longer see me; condemnation, because the ruler of this world has been condemned."

Read the Reflection; then pray using John 16: 8-11; ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

Jesus makes an interesting remark about the necessity of leaving us and ascending to the Father, or else the Advocate will never come to us. It is the Holy Spirit who fashions us in the image and likeness of Jesus, makes Jesus constantly present to us so that we will never be orphans, and unites heaven and earth as God's community of martyrs, witnesses, and saints. Therefore, the Holy Spirit will prove the world wrong about sin, namely, that Jesus is the only Savior of the world; about righteousness, because the ultimate righteousness or right order of things is that Jesus, as our Risen Lord, has restored us to the Father whose children we now are, and He sits at the right hand of His Father in glory and victory and intercession; about condemnation, because through his death, Jesus has vanquished Satan, prince of this world.

Prayer, listening to God, sitting still and allowing God to speak with you, this is a treasure from Heaven.  The Holy Ghost will speak to you when you ask Him to come and be with you.  This sounds foreign to some, how can God speak to me?  Does the spirit of the world speak to us?  Not hard to see that is it, just see what is going on.  The redefinition of Family, the redefinition of boys and girls, the redefinition of marriage.  Growing up I had a firm foundation because my parents listened to God and taught me.  The world was a simpler place and truth wasn't redefined based upon your feelings.  Today that foundation is being eroded before us.  Sitting at the feet of Jesus and listening to the advocate speaks truth.  It requires trusting in God, it requires patience when nothing seems to be happening, it requires change on your behalf.  He is the Teacher that will lead your soul to Heaven, why do you not listening to Him?  This is a pain that Jesus endures today.  

What is God saying to you? My son, not all things are that simple but in My presence you have found joy, you have found the source of Life.  My Advocate has been teaching you, be still and know that I Am God.  I see all things happening, do not be alarmed at what is coming, these things must happen for some to see what the Truth is.  Pray for them and offer up reparations on their behalf.  Go in peace. 

"Come, Holy Spirit, and overshadow me with your gentle wisdom and power as I endeavor to sit at the feet of Jesus during this period of prayer. Purify my mind and heart as I seek to make the teachings of Jesus my priority in life, thinking, speaking, and doing as He desires. You are the Keeper of my soul, leading me into God's heart. May I be docile and submissive to your wisdom and guidance, and may my life be a pleasing offering in your sight, through Christ our Lord. Amen. Triune God, be my all! Triune God, be my all! Triune God, be my all!"  Prayer taken from God's Embrace Ministry 

Mary, Spouse of the Holy Ghost, Pray for us

St Joesph, Chaste Guardian of the Virgin, Pray for us 

Viva Cristo Rey 

https://youtu.be/JQk4TKdNPP8

Day 9 Novena to St Joesph 

https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/day-nine-13488

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK SIXTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 1



WEEK SIXTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 1

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer on John 15: 15-16: I have called you Friends:  "I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father. It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you."

Read the Reflection; then pray using John 15: 15-16; ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

This passage is best understood within the context of a covenant relationship where the offering of oneself to the other is total. As a result, one lives for the other who becomes the apple of the eye. Jesus did that in wanting to establish us in a new and eternal covenant with His Father. The Sinless One went to the extent of becoming sin (2 Corinthians 5: 21) on our behalf, becoming the Suffering Servant by whose stripes we were healed (Isaiah 53: 5). He truly became our slave so that we might enter and share in God's freedom from sin, and love beyond measure. In our passage, Jesus is hinting at the fact that even while he treated his disciples as friends, meaning he wanted to share everything of Himself and the Trinity, they were not yet ready and disposed. However, with His forthcoming death and resurrection, He would bring about the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The disciples would be transformed and truly know what it means to be the friends of Jesus, because they would be living and experiencing covenant life and union with the Triune God. It is Jesus who makes this covenant union with God possible for us: "I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you."

What was Jesus asking of His Father?  You can not give what you do not have.  I awoke this morning with the image of the burning Bush in my thoughts, been thinking about this burning bush for awhile now.  Jesus as Son of Man lived with the burning bush, He turned to Him regularly and felt the warmth that He gives.  On this side of Heaven that is what Jesus is asking of His Father, that His people be fed.  That they understand where the source of all life comes from.  The world that we live in denies His existence, it distracts you from the Father, it will paint pictures of deception that draws you down.  In the burning bush there is peace, there is joy, there is wisdom, there is insight.  You have been chosen by God to go to the burning bush, to be called friends.  Live the faith as Jesus lives it.  

What is God saying to you? The burning bush is a common sight for you, for another it is foreign but in revealing the Truth, they are attracted to its glow and want what I give.  

Dear Father, may I not assume that common practice is not common.  Help me see the deception that is being played in my life daily and keep me from falling in to the trap.  Thank You Father for the constant reminder of how precious Your love is once we have found You.  Help me not take for granted the graces that are freely received in my life.  Prayers for friends taking a walk of faith, build them up Lord and prepare them for the mountain top.  Prayers for family in lockdown in Ireland may they never forget the teachings of Jesus and witness to the truth that lives within.  Bless this day Father skin with all the Irish.  Amen.  

Mary, Queen of Heaven, Pray for us. 

St Joesph, Watchful Defender of Christ, Pray for us. 

St Patrick, Pray for us 

Viva Cristo Rey. 

https://youtu.be/m1OCffhjHYw

Day 8 - Novena to St Joesph 

https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/day-eight-13487

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 7



WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 7

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:

Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

APPLICATION OF THE SENSES: #121-126

Apply your senses to those points in the two repetitions where you experienced consolation or desolation, or greater spiritual appreciation. Ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

#121 tells us that this method of prayer "will consist in applying the five senses to the matter" at hand.

#122 asks you to see in imagination the persons, contemplating in detail their circumstances and then drawing some fruit from what has been seen.

#123 asks you to hear what they are saying or might say, and by reflecting on oneself to draw some profit.

#124 asks you to smell the infinite fragrance, and taste the infinite sweetness of the divinity present in the mystery being contemplated.

#125 asks you to apply the sense of touch, for example, by embracing and kissing the place where the persons stand or are seated.

#126 asks you to end with a colloquy.

Sitting in the upper room and experiencing the Love of God pour into us is an experience all need to relish.  To see God live as man, as one of us and experience humanity with its pains and sufferings along with its joys and victories is an unbelievable experience.  To relish the sweet aroma of God in your own life as He weaves a path into your heart is life changing.  If I can close my eyes and be in the upper room and experience the aroma of God in action, I can open my eyes and live in His presence all the time especially in the suffering.  The cross is something we will all need to carry but not my strength but the strength of the Father will carry you through.  

What is God saying to you?  Have a blessed day, you do not go alone, I Am with you and in you.  Watch as I move mountains and continue to change the world.  The resurrection is not far away.  

Dear Father we live in Your beautiful creation surrounded by emptiness if You are not invited in.  The sweetness of You in our lives brings all things together to fulfill Your mission.  I thank You for this morning, I thank You for experiencing Your love in my life.  My prayers is that others experience the joy of Christ in a world that seeks to crucify Him, may we all experience the resurrection of our everyday lives.  Bring about Your Kingdom in Your faithful servants Lord, they do the will of the Father in simple and profound ways.  Bless this day, thank You for Your loving gaze from across the table.  In Jesus name, Amen. 

Mary, Queen of Peace, Pray for us. 

St Joesph, Most Strong, Pray for us. 

Viva Cristo Rey 

https://youtu.be/1YRM-eHgXCY

Day 7 Novena to St Joesph

https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/day-seven-13486

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 6



WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 6

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

REPETITION OF DAYS FOUR AND FIVE:  Ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

Today, you are doing a repetition of Days Four and Five of this week. In a repetition St. Ignatius says that "we should pay attention to and dwell upon those points in which we have experienced greater consolation or desolation or greater spiritual appreciation." (# 62) If you wish, you can do a triple colloquy: refer to #63 of the Third Exercise of the First Week.

Day 4 Prayer on Luke 22: 15-16; 19-20: The Paschal Meal. "He said to them, "I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer, for, I tell you, I shall not eat it [again] until there is fulfillment in the kingdom of God." ... Then he took the bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body, which will be given for you; do this in memory of me." And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which will be shed for you." [Please read Luke 22: 14-20 for a better appreciation of the passage].

Day 5 Prayer on John 15: 1-4; 5; 7-8: The Vine and the Branches. "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower. He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and every one that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit. You are already pruned because of the word that I spoke to you. Remain in me, as I remain in you... Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing. ... If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask for whatever you want and it will be done for you. By this is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples." [Please read John 15: 1-17 for a better appreciation of the passage].

I Am the vine.  Life is going to come at you, all that this world can throw at you will come especially if you are following Jesus.  In those moments when you close your eyes in prayer, you will see the Holy Family over coming all the challenges by being connected to God.  To receiving the graces that He offers, to receive the Heavenly food that Mary received as she suffered the what if's of her pregnancy, to receive that same Heavenly food Jesus receives as He is in the upper room with the disciples in Union with God.  The voices out side wanting to take Him away and He in perfect peace.  God is the source of all life, in this relationship, you will be fed each day to handle the daily events, being in Union with Him brings peace into all the events.  

What is God saying to you? I Am the vine. 

Dear Father, bless this day and all it has in store for us.  Thank You for Your hedge of protection that surrounds us, even the darkness can not penetrate the light of Christ as long as we are in Union with You.  Prayers for a young man and his family that was in an accident.  I thank You for Your divine grace that watches over him as life came at him.  Prayers for another fighting sickness, overcome the sickness Lord and heal his heart.  Prayers to move hearts Lord, that long for complete Union with You while living their faith as Jesus did.  I ask this in the name of Jesus, Amen.  

Mary, Mother of God, Pray For us. 

St Joesph, Terror of Demons, Pray for us.  

Viva Cristo Rey. 

https://youtu.be/zzlEsi8yp2k

Dat 6 Novena to St Joesph

https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/day-six-13485

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 5



WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 5



"MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer on John 15: 1-4; 5; 7-8: The Vine and the Branches. "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower. He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and every one that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit. You are already pruned because of the word that I spoke to you. Remain in me, as I remain in you... Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing. ... If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask for whatever you want and it will be done for you. By this is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples." [Please read John 15: 1-17 for a better appreciation of the passage].

Read the Reflections; then pray using John 15: 1-17; ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

In John 15, Jesus tells us that He is the true vine and we are His branches, and the Father is the vine-grower. The Father is actively involved in this process of our transformation as He prunes away every barren branch, and trims clean the fruitful ones to increase their yield. Further, through His incarnation, Jesus establishes an inextricable bond with us when He says that He is the vine and we are the branches. If we live in Him and He live in us, we will produce abundantly. Apart from Him we will be withered, rejected branches. When Jesus thinks of Himself, He is at one and the same time the Second Person of the Holy Trinity and one of us, the son of man! We were called to be in covenant union with our Trinitarian God, and Jesus made that happen!" Taken from Mold me as Your Disciple by Dr Michael Fonseca. 

"I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing."  John‬ ‭15:5‬  The passion of Christ is His people, He has the gift of eternal life.  When seated with the Father in daily prayer, life flows from Him.  When we sit at the feet of Jesus in daily prayer, live courses through you and your thoughts.  It is the source of all that moves you towards God.  He will speak to you that is just for you, His heart and your heart become one for you learn who the source of life is.  Closing your eyes and listening brings about joys that are unimaginable, you see God orchestrating all things to bring about His Kingdom.  You also hear that gentle nudge of what needs corrected (pruned) from within.  Live your faith as Jesus did, He is the source of eternal life.  

What is God saying to you?  I have spoken, you have seen living examples of individuals that are firmly connected to Me, there is no duplicity within, they are Me in the flesh because this is their life and their purpose.  

Dear Father, my mind is flooded with abundance this morning, it overflows with Joy seeing You bring all things together.  You give the gifts of finest wheat in events of our day.  Prayers of thanksgiving for a day filled with Your presence, and the joys of Your mother.  I know what pierces her heart as it does You as well, in the trials of life You are calling Your children home, bringing them back to the temple.  Lead the way Father and I will follow with Your grace and humility that only You can give.  Prayers for a friend, lift Him up Lord.  I ask this in Jesus name, Amen.

Mary, Queen of Heaven, Pray for us.
St Joesph Prudent and Brave, Pray for us.
Viva Cristo Rey. 

https://youtu.be/W-U4Rv_d_Ws

Day 5 Novena to St Joesph

https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/day-five-13484

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 4



WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 4



MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:

Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer on Luke 22: 15-16; 19-20: The Paschal Meal. "He said to them, "I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer, for, I tell you, I shall not eat it [again] until there is fulfillment in the kingdom of God." ... Then he took the bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body, which will be given for you; do this in memory of me." And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which will be shed for you." [Please read Luke 22: 14-20 for a better appreciation of the passage].

Read the Reflections: then pray using Luke 22:14-20; ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

The Eucharist celebrates the Memorial of Jesus' sacrifice. The Memorial is the proclamation of the mighty works wrought by God for men. In the liturgical celebration of these events, these mighty works become present and real. This is how Israel understands its liberation from Egypt: Every time Passover is celebrated, the Exodus, which is an ever-living and salvific event, is made present and real among the believers. The participants experience in mystery this saving event in the same way as their ancestors did. In the New Testament, the Memorial takes on new meaning. In the Eucharist, the sacrifice Christ offered once for all on the cross remains ever-present and real in the Risen Lord. "As often as the sacrifice of the Cross by which 'Christ our Pasch has been sacrificed' is celebrated on the altar, the work of our redemption is carried out." (Lumen Gentium 3) The sacrificial character is revealed in the very words of institution: "This is my body which is given for you" and "This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood." (Luke 22: 19-20) The institution narrative is the only place where Jesus mentions the new covenant, from which the gospels and other books relating to Jesus are named the New Testament.

The day has arrived, Jesus's mission was about to be fulfilled.  He knew the suffering and pain He would endure as the sacrificial lamb, He also knew who He was doing this for, You and I.  The institute of the Mass is not an easy teaching for a non-catholic to understand but the love that Jesus has for us is.  He knew the blood that He offered up was His, He knee the flesh that He offered up was His and He knew He was doing it for you and I.  Living your faith has purpose, accepting the teachings of Jesus has meaning.  It is not an empty sacrifice, it is the body and blood of Jesus. It is called faith.  

What is God saying to you?  I love you that much that I sent my son to pay the price for your sin.  He willing accepted the cup and does it with love.  

Dear Father, I thank You for the institute of the One Holy Catholic Apostolic Church, I thank You for the Sacrament of the mass and the institute of the Eucharist.  I thank You for this day and all that You have prepared for us.  Enliven our senses to receive the gift of life in all that we do, we say and we hear.  May Your Son Jesus walk with us and be in us when we receive the Sacrament.  Help our unbelief Lord that we may become full aires to the throne.  I ask this in the One who died for me and lives within today, Jesus Christ.  

Mary, Our Lady of Victory, Pray for us. 

St Joesph, Terror of Demons, Pray for us. 

Viva Cristo Rey 

https://youtu.be/byHwKMa6NJY

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 3



WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 3

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

REPETITION OF DAYS ONE AND TWO:
Ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

Today, you are doing a repetition of Days One and Two of this week. In a repetition St. Ignatius says that "we should pay attention to and dwell upon those points in which we have experienced greater consolation or desolation or greater spiritual appreciation." (# 62) If you wish, you can do a triple colloquy: refer to #63 of the Third Exercise of the First Week.

What is God saying to you?  I am the Lord your God, hear my voice.  (God's heart is for each of us to hear His voice and respond to it)

NIGHT SESSION: General and Particular Examination of Conscience
For what are you grateful?   I am thankful for seeing Your plan come together, to witness the love You have for us and Your desire to teach us truth.  Thankful for a good day and the energy and desire to be part of it.  

For what are contrite for?  For the desire to feed my ego and the feelings of seeking recognition.  


Please review briefly your Morning Prayer topic. Make it your last thought of the day

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=RDpmiTkVD4ETo

Novena to St Joesph Day 3

https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/day-three-13482



Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 2



WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 2

"MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:

Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer on Matthew 26: 26-28: The Holy Eucharist. "While they were eating, Jesus took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and giving it to his disciples said, "Take and eat; this is my body." Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed on behalf of many for the forgiveness of sins."

Read the Reflections; then pray using Matthew 26: 26-28; ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

In the Eucharist, Christ gives us the very body which he gave up for us on the cross, the very blood which he "poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins." (verse 28) The sacrifice of Christ on the cross, and the sacrifice of Christ in the Eucharist, are one single sacrifice, always present in the Person and Body of Jesus Christ. We will never have the words to adequately describe the outpouring of God's love for us in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The Father desires that we avail of the merits of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross by receiving His Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity in communion, when He becomes the divine guest of our souls and we become one with Him in covenant union!" Taken from Mold me as Your Disciple by Michael Fonseca

Perfect union between Father and Son, Jesus willingly accepting the fate of His life for He no longer lives for self but for the will of His Father  which He is in communion with.  Our Yes at mass, is willingly accepting the body and blood of Jesus, willingly accepting the trials of this life offering them up to our Father.  Knowing that He has died for our sins, and will not give us anything that we can not handle.  Sin in our lives works against this union, it causes us to step away, to fall out of grace and inflict pain into the body of Christ.  We all do it, it is a rejection of the body and blood of Jesus for we deny Him when we ignore the grace that He gives.  

What is God saying to you?

Dear Father, we are blessed to be living at this time in history, to have the depth of knowledge and understanding of Your teachings.   May our Yes be a full throated yes to all that comes at us.  The crosses we are given are there for purification, to make us stronger and to prepare us for Heaven, perfect communion with You.  I pray for all those that find the flesh and blood of Jesus a hard teaching, fill them with gift of faith, what eyes can not see, the soul perceives the reality, manna from Heaven.  Prayers for a fruitful day and a commitment to Christ in our daily lives.  In Jesus name, Amen.  

Mary, Queen of Heaven, Pray for us. 

St Joesph, Head of the Holy Family, Pray for us

Viva Cristo Rey 

Day 2 of St Joesph Novena

https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/day-two-13481

https://youtu.be/xV-fNmt6ZAo

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 1



WEEK FIFTEEN: IN THE UPPER ROOM DAY 1



MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Prayer on John 13: 3-5; 12-16: The Washing of the Disciples' Feet:  "So, during supper, fully aware that the Father had put everything into his power and that he had come from God and was returning to God, he rose from supper and took off his outer garments. He took a towel and tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and dry them with the towel around his waist... "Do you realize what I have done for you? You call me 'teacher' and 'master,' and rightly so, for indeed I am. If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another's feet...No slave is greater than his master nor any messenger greater than the one who sent him." [Please read John 13: 1-20 for a better appreciation of the passage].

Read the Reflection; then pray using John 13: 3-5; 12-16; ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me (#203).

Jesus is in the Upper Room with His disciples. They are there to celebrate the Passover Meal of the Mosaic Covenant. And within the context of the Passover Meal, Jesus will institute the new and everlasting covenant through His forthcoming death on the cross, leading to His resurrection. Jesus institutes the new covenant (the New Testament) by giving His disciples His body to eat and His blood to drink, in anticipation of His death and resurrection. Jesus wants to make sure that this event of our salvation will always remain in our midst as a sacred memorial. He wants them to know that He went willingly to His passion and death. He was willing to be our slave in our stead, and pay the price for our freedom. He emphasizes this amazing swap He undertook on our behalf through a very concrete gesture: He washes the feet of His disciples in preparation for the new Passover meal that is about to take place. He identifies himself as a non-Jewish slave, as He was willing to go to any lenghts on our behalf, even to being pilloried as a criminal deserving of crucifixion. His love for us is indeed both unconditional and limitless. And He asks us to do the same as is befitting anyone who takes living in covenant seriously.

Can you see God washing your feet, He humbly kneels and washes your feet, knowing that true repentance in turn will bring forth the gifts of eternal life.  He removes the burdens of this life, the daily pressures and with the caressing, He instills new life, life with purpose that is willing to endure the trials of everyday living.  He has walked in those footsteps and willingly accepted what came at Him for His life was not here but in Heaven.  He gives what He received and we in turn do the same.   

What is God saying to you?  It is a walk of faith, each day will bring new opportunities.  Share the gifts I have given you, be not afraid for I go before you.  

Dear Father, I thank You for this opportunity to be in Your presence, I thank You for the gifts of this day and blessings of Your grace throughout the day.  I thank You for my thoughts, my actions, my personality that is being transformed slowly with single hearted purpose.  Prayers for a friend walking on his journey, be his confidant as he walks his path.  Prayers for a couple struggling with a grandchild, help them be grounded in You and protect them from unseen attacks.  Bless this day and all it has to offer, Amen.

Mary, Our Lady of Victory, Pray for us
St Joesph, Terror of Demons, Pray for us.
Viva Cristo Rey. 

https://youtu.be/ds0XI7wqZ0A

Novena to St Joesph, Day 1

https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/devotions/day-one-13480



Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b

WEEK FOURTEEN: JESUS PREDICTS HIS PASSION DAY 7



WEEK FOURTEEN: JESUS PREDICTS HIS PASSION DAY 7

MORNING PRAYER: Act of Faith; Act of Hope; Act of Charity; Daily Offering

MORNING FACE TO FACE WITH GOD:
Begin with Prayer to the Holy Spirit

REPETITION OF DAYS FOUR,FIVE AND SIX:
Ask for an intimate knowledge of our Lord, who has become man for me, that I may love Him more and follow Him more closely (#104)

Today, you are doing a repetition of Days Four, Five, and Six of this week. In a repetition St. Ignatius says that "we should pay attention to and dwell upon those points in which we have experienced greater consolation or desolation or greater spiritual appreciation." (# 62) If you wish, you can do a triple colloquy: refer to #63 of the Third Exercise of the First Week.

Day 4
Prayer on Luke 9: 43-45: The Second Prediction of the Passion:  "And all were astonished by the majesty of God. While they were all amazed at his every deed, he said to his disciples, "Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men." But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about his saying."

Day 5
Prayer on Mark 10: 32-34: The Third Prediction of the Passion:  "They were on the way, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus went ahead of them. They were amazed, and those who followed were afraid. Taking the Twelve aside again, he began to tell them what was going to happen to him. "Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death and hand him over to the Gentiles who will mock him, spit upon him, scourge him, and put him to death, but after three days he will rise."

Day 6
Prayer on Matthew 21: 9: Palm Sunday "Hosanna to the Son of David; blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord; hosanna in the highest"

Are we willing to sit and converse with our Blessed Mother Mary, Jesus and His Father whether we perceive anything is happening.  Will we think like man lost on a journey or will we contemplate the scene and listen to the whisper?  The same journey that Mary and Jesus walked as the Father watched with love.  

What is God saying to you?

Dear Father, as we go to Jerusalem following Jesus, give us the reassurance You gave Your Son.  Breath life into us, may we not thirst for we are drinking from the well of eternal life.  Thank You Lord for the serenity of the morning, for watching the darkness go away with the light of a new day.  You watch upon Your sons and daughters and answer our prayers.  As we each continue upon this journey remove the blinders, remove the influences that weigh us down and give us clarity of mind and vision.  I ask this in Your most Holy Name, Amen.

Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us.  
St Joesph, Protector of the Holy family, Pray for us.
Viva Cristo Rey 

https://youtu.be/IqoQe5Xg7-0

Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.  1 John 4:4b