322. A jewel
Jesus is the one who draws people to him. He tells us in his parable:
“Go out to the highways and hedgerows and make people come in that my home may be filled.” Luke, chapter 14, verse 23
We know that freedom is a jewel for those who use it to enter the Heart of God. But freedom becomes camouflaged by a virus, when they don’t use it to enter Jesus and remain in his Heart.
It is written that God wants us to enter by force: “make people come in”. But in the language of God, it’s easy to understand what he really wants to tell us. It might be something like this: “Bring them in with all the strength of my
Love that I placed in your heart.” That being said, we understand how delicately, but with what insistence God tries to find us and gather us on his Heart. We are attracted to him.
To welcome Jesus is to give him time so that he may sanctify our life. In our hearts, let’s join the feast of all the saints: “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father”. Philippians, chapter 2, verses 10 and 11
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Normandt' Bible reflexions
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
323. The wealth we need
During Jesus’s descent into the bread and wine and after communion, let’s remember why we fall to our knees during Mass and adore him. Because Jesus is God, he lowers himself to our height and he saves us. We wish to thank him. He is the reason and faith of our worship.
Jesus lowered himself to us, he took flesh in the body of a Virgin named Mary. He is God and he knows us humans, since he is the Lord of creation. He knows the heart of the human. Jesus is the only wealth we need. No need to look elsewhere.
Everything that sneakily draws us in the worldly is complicit to our distance from God. We are often distracted from other activities in other places. And time flies by if we don’t allow ourselves a moment for a sincere dialogue with Jesus in our heart. That unnecessarily monopolizes our interest, causes a lack of relationship with God and makes us waste precious time.
Jesus tells us that we are called to holiness. We have in us the mark of the children of God and our being is attracted by grace at every moment.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
During Jesus’s descent into the bread and wine and after communion, let’s remember why we fall to our knees during Mass and adore him. Because Jesus is God, he lowers himself to our height and he saves us. We wish to thank him. He is the reason and faith of our worship.
Jesus lowered himself to us, he took flesh in the body of a Virgin named Mary. He is God and he knows us humans, since he is the Lord of creation. He knows the heart of the human. Jesus is the only wealth we need. No need to look elsewhere.
Everything that sneakily draws us in the worldly is complicit to our distance from God. We are often distracted from other activities in other places. And time flies by if we don’t allow ourselves a moment for a sincere dialogue with Jesus in our heart. That unnecessarily monopolizes our interest, causes a lack of relationship with God and makes us waste precious time.
Jesus tells us that we are called to holiness. We have in us the mark of the children of God and our being is attracted by grace at every moment.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
324. Let’s let Jesus find us
Ah! The book of Wisdom. Here we read:
“Love justice, you who judge the earth; think of the Lord in goodness, and seek him in integrity of heart; Because he is found by those who test him not, and he manifests himself to those who don’t disbelieve him.” Wisdom, chapter 1, verses 1 to 2
Let’s seek Jesus with a simple heart. That is to say, may we let Jesus find us. He will drive us on his way.
“Putting him to the test” is putting us to the test. Over the years, we have developed practices that are sometimes automated. It will be important to return to Jesus and “pray with the heart” as Our Lady of Peace proposes to us in Medjugorje.
Let’s repeat what the Apostles ask of Jesus:
“Increase our faith.” Luke, chapter 17, verse 5
Faith increases to the extent that we want to let go of what falsely secures us and that we want to receive from Jesus everything that leads us to him, all that will help us to free ourselves from our bonds and make us free by the Loving Trinity.
May Mary accompany us, who has been freed and protected from all that can keep away from Jesus. May Mary teach us to stay with him.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Ah! The book of Wisdom. Here we read:
“Love justice, you who judge the earth; think of the Lord in goodness, and seek him in integrity of heart; Because he is found by those who test him not, and he manifests himself to those who don’t disbelieve him.” Wisdom, chapter 1, verses 1 to 2
Let’s seek Jesus with a simple heart. That is to say, may we let Jesus find us. He will drive us on his way.
“Putting him to the test” is putting us to the test. Over the years, we have developed practices that are sometimes automated. It will be important to return to Jesus and “pray with the heart” as Our Lady of Peace proposes to us in Medjugorje.
Let’s repeat what the Apostles ask of Jesus:
“Increase our faith.” Luke, chapter 17, verse 5
Faith increases to the extent that we want to let go of what falsely secures us and that we want to receive from Jesus everything that leads us to him, all that will help us to free ourselves from our bonds and make us free by the Loving Trinity.
May Mary accompany us, who has been freed and protected from all that can keep away from Jesus. May Mary teach us to stay with him.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
326. Listening
Publicans and sinners came to listen to Jesus. But some of them don’t listen anymore:
“The Pharisees and scribes began to complain (against him).” Luke, chapter 15, verse 2
It’s very unfortunate that they are bothering him, while Jesus takes care of the people who came to listen to him. Some are listening but others don’t. They’re wasting a lot of time, and only wanting to trap him.
Jesus tells them how joyful he is of being surrounded by people who want to hear him:
“What woman having ten coins and losing one would not light a lamp and sweep the house, searching carefully until she finds it? And when she does find it, she calls together her friends and neighbours and says to them,
’Rejoice with me because I have found the coin that I lost.’” Luke, chapter 15, verses 8 to 9
Jesus is not compared to a coin. But Jesus shares this scene to offer a teaching to those who don’t realize what they are losing, since they don’t fully realize what Jesus represents; our ultimate wealth.
Some scribes and pharisees lose a lot, while they search for some defect about Jesus and especially, while they seek default catching. They keep people from following God’s mission. They’re pushing souls away.
Jesus came to gather sheep, his family, his people and some people put him to the test. How much easier it is to offer our services, to help and encourage those who work for the glory of God and the salvation of the world, in the name of Jesus, rather than thwarting his plan of salvation.
And when we found Jesus as this woman her lost drachma, there we find the way to become free while being responsible. We enter into joy and peace, an intensely greater joy to find Jesus than a lost coin.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Publicans and sinners came to listen to Jesus. But some of them don’t listen anymore:
“The Pharisees and scribes began to complain (against him).” Luke, chapter 15, verse 2
It’s very unfortunate that they are bothering him, while Jesus takes care of the people who came to listen to him. Some are listening but others don’t. They’re wasting a lot of time, and only wanting to trap him.
Jesus tells them how joyful he is of being surrounded by people who want to hear him:
“What woman having ten coins and losing one would not light a lamp and sweep the house, searching carefully until she finds it? And when she does find it, she calls together her friends and neighbours and says to them,
’Rejoice with me because I have found the coin that I lost.’” Luke, chapter 15, verses 8 to 9
Jesus is not compared to a coin. But Jesus shares this scene to offer a teaching to those who don’t realize what they are losing, since they don’t fully realize what Jesus represents; our ultimate wealth.
Some scribes and pharisees lose a lot, while they search for some defect about Jesus and especially, while they seek default catching. They keep people from following God’s mission. They’re pushing souls away.
Jesus came to gather sheep, his family, his people and some people put him to the test. How much easier it is to offer our services, to help and encourage those who work for the glory of God and the salvation of the world, in the name of Jesus, rather than thwarting his plan of salvation.
And when we found Jesus as this woman her lost drachma, there we find the way to become free while being responsible. We enter into joy and peace, an intensely greater joy to find Jesus than a lost coin.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
327. Prayer of a multitude
The reality of life becomes clear when we allow the Trinity to settle in us. We can say that we have prayed for many years and that nothing changes, that we pray during Mass regularly and that nothing changes, that we live our faith to the best of our ability and that nothing changes. Yet there is change, even without our knowledge. There is always change!
We cannot see everything, know everything and yet the life of many is improving because of the prayer of a multitude in heaven and in the world. God offers a unique mission and, let’s acknowledge it, extraordinary by its simplicity and humility, by prayer.
What does God do in us? Maybe we don’t see and maybe we’re not totally unaware of it, but God knows what he’s doing with our prayers, our intentions, with faith. We are simply transformed from coming to Mass, listening to the Word and receiving the Eucharist. This is slowly unveiled to us year after year.
God can do wonders before our eyes, in our hearts and in the hearts of others, without our being aware of them. Even though usually we can feel and see some change. Let’s restore our trust in God and let him transform his world, his children, and our poor prayers. He is truly accomplishing Love in hearts. Prayer allows him to go from his Heart to our heart to hearts. It’s all about opening up to him.
Let’s rejoice in the hope and joy of knowing that God’s Love reigns in the universe, for the salvation of all.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
The reality of life becomes clear when we allow the Trinity to settle in us. We can say that we have prayed for many years and that nothing changes, that we pray during Mass regularly and that nothing changes, that we live our faith to the best of our ability and that nothing changes. Yet there is change, even without our knowledge. There is always change!
We cannot see everything, know everything and yet the life of many is improving because of the prayer of a multitude in heaven and in the world. God offers a unique mission and, let’s acknowledge it, extraordinary by its simplicity and humility, by prayer.
What does God do in us? Maybe we don’t see and maybe we’re not totally unaware of it, but God knows what he’s doing with our prayers, our intentions, with faith. We are simply transformed from coming to Mass, listening to the Word and receiving the Eucharist. This is slowly unveiled to us year after year.
God can do wonders before our eyes, in our hearts and in the hearts of others, without our being aware of them. Even though usually we can feel and see some change. Let’s restore our trust in God and let him transform his world, his children, and our poor prayers. He is truly accomplishing Love in hearts. Prayer allows him to go from his Heart to our heart to hearts. It’s all about opening up to him.
Let’s rejoice in the hope and joy of knowing that God’s Love reigns in the universe, for the salvation of all.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
328. Talents
In what follows, let’s notice what Jesus said to him who received his five talents. He did not do anything to receive his talents, but with Jesus, they amount to more:
“The one who had received five talents came forward bringing the additional five. He said, 'Master, you gave me five talents. See, I have made five more.'
His master said to him, ’Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.” Matthew 25, verses 20 to 21
He was already living in his master’s joy. And the Lord confirms to him that joy will remain, since he has submitted to his joy.
Let’s ask Jesus again to reveal our talents to us and enter the joy of the Master right away.
Let’s pray together that the authority of the members of the Catholic Church is always united to the will of the Trinity. May there be many apostles and disciples in the world who live their relationship with God. May they be luminous witnesses for the salvation of all.
Like Mary and Joseph, let’s become more and more saturated people with the Presence of God (mission) for humanity. This saturation is not pressure building on the body, but it’s revealed by a spiritual well-being.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
In what follows, let’s notice what Jesus said to him who received his five talents. He did not do anything to receive his talents, but with Jesus, they amount to more:
“The one who had received five talents came forward bringing the additional five. He said, 'Master, you gave me five talents. See, I have made five more.'
His master said to him, ’Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.” Matthew 25, verses 20 to 21
He was already living in his master’s joy. And the Lord confirms to him that joy will remain, since he has submitted to his joy.
Let’s ask Jesus again to reveal our talents to us and enter the joy of the Master right away.
Let’s pray together that the authority of the members of the Catholic Church is always united to the will of the Trinity. May there be many apostles and disciples in the world who live their relationship with God. May they be luminous witnesses for the salvation of all.
Like Mary and Joseph, let’s become more and more saturated people with the Presence of God (mission) for humanity. This saturation is not pressure building on the body, but it’s revealed by a spiritual well-being.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
329. Let’s stay with Jesus
Our first pope understands what the scriptures say about Jesus. He is ready to lead the mission. He bears witness to Jesus Christ. After all he has seen, all he has lived, heard, touched of Jesus, Peter is on the road to proclaim the Good News.
Peter became Good News in all his being. He can only want to relay it. He knows to what extent Jesus went to teach us eternal life. He knows how Jesus offered well-being to those seeking the Doctor. He knows why Jesus healed sick people and invited them to stand up and walk. He understands that faith is supported by a sincere relationship with Jesus.
Peter knows why Jesus wanted to gather all the sheep in order to bring them to him, then to the Kingdom of Heaven. He knows why Jesus surrounded himself with sinners to become fishermen of souls.
Peter knows that all of God’s Love is contained in Jesus’s life and that his Love will not end:
“Everyone who believes in him will receive forgiveness of sins through his name.” Acts, chapter 10, verse 43
God’s Love purifies our being from sins, when we want it, when we don’t seek ways to keep Jesus away from us.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Our first pope understands what the scriptures say about Jesus. He is ready to lead the mission. He bears witness to Jesus Christ. After all he has seen, all he has lived, heard, touched of Jesus, Peter is on the road to proclaim the Good News.
Peter became Good News in all his being. He can only want to relay it. He knows to what extent Jesus went to teach us eternal life. He knows how Jesus offered well-being to those seeking the Doctor. He knows why Jesus healed sick people and invited them to stand up and walk. He understands that faith is supported by a sincere relationship with Jesus.
Peter knows why Jesus wanted to gather all the sheep in order to bring them to him, then to the Kingdom of Heaven. He knows why Jesus surrounded himself with sinners to become fishermen of souls.
Peter knows that all of God’s Love is contained in Jesus’s life and that his Love will not end:
“Everyone who believes in him will receive forgiveness of sins through his name.” Acts, chapter 10, verse 43
God’s Love purifies our being from sins, when we want it, when we don’t seek ways to keep Jesus away from us.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
330. To seek Jesus
“The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; by the Lord has this been done, and it’s wonderful in our eyes.” Matthew, chapter 21, verse 42
Peter knows how people tried to reject Jesus. But he knows how much better it is to stay united to him and walk with him.
Paul, for his part, was struck down by the Luminous Presence of the Lord. He tells of what is most incomprehensible. Jesus, the one who was crucified, is risen:
“If then you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Think of what is above, not of what is on earth.” Colossians, chapter 3, verses 1 to 2
Paul invites us to seek Jesus, otherwise we will miss out on what we need, ultimately. He invites us to follow the living saints, who follow the living one, Jesus.
We are resurrected in Christ. He invites us to continue to seek the realities from above, since Christ is seated at the right hand of the Father. The closer we come to the Love of God, the more our point of view changes, reality becomes clear, our being becomes light. We are called to the same glory as the Trinity:
“This is the day the Lord has made; let’s rejoice in it and be glad.” Psalm 118, verse 24
Hallelujah! Come, let’s praise the Lord!
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
“The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; by the Lord has this been done, and it’s wonderful in our eyes.” Matthew, chapter 21, verse 42
Peter knows how people tried to reject Jesus. But he knows how much better it is to stay united to him and walk with him.
Paul, for his part, was struck down by the Luminous Presence of the Lord. He tells of what is most incomprehensible. Jesus, the one who was crucified, is risen:
“If then you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Think of what is above, not of what is on earth.” Colossians, chapter 3, verses 1 to 2
Paul invites us to seek Jesus, otherwise we will miss out on what we need, ultimately. He invites us to follow the living saints, who follow the living one, Jesus.
We are resurrected in Christ. He invites us to continue to seek the realities from above, since Christ is seated at the right hand of the Father. The closer we come to the Love of God, the more our point of view changes, reality becomes clear, our being becomes light. We are called to the same glory as the Trinity:
“This is the day the Lord has made; let’s rejoice in it and be glad.” Psalm 118, verse 24
Hallelujah! Come, let’s praise the Lord!
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
331. Preparation
The mission we’re in is the preparation for evangelization:
“One of the seraphim flew to me, holding an ember which he had taken with tongs from the altar. He touched my mouth with it. ‘See, he said, now that this has touched your lips, your wickedness is removed, your sin purged.’” Isaiah, chapter 6, verses 6 to 7
To become evangelizers, to enter the New Evangelization proposed by pope John Paul II, we must live a personal conversion to receive fully the Love of God, of Christ. We must live a continuous conversion, otherwise we do not experience it and live it.
Isaiah walks in the movement of this conversion. But he must also live the forgiveness of his faults to live well the mission that will be his. A seraph takes care of that: “Your wickedness is removed, your sin purged.” This is a major step for faith and for receiving God’s mission.
“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?’ ‘Here I am,’ I said; ‘send me!’” Isaiah, chapter 6, verse 8
After experiencing the forgiveness of his sins, Isaiah is ready to listen to God. Let’s think about this, it’s important. God can offer us his mission, but if we do not live the forgiveness of sin, we aren’t ready to be sent.
God sends on a mission the person whose fault is taken away, the sin forgiven. If not, God is waiting and he may wait a long time. The more we are purified in the grace of God, the more we walk in the mission to which God invites us, because we are more open to him. We become responsible for the mission by letting ourselves be Loved by God.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
The mission we’re in is the preparation for evangelization:
“One of the seraphim flew to me, holding an ember which he had taken with tongs from the altar. He touched my mouth with it. ‘See, he said, now that this has touched your lips, your wickedness is removed, your sin purged.’” Isaiah, chapter 6, verses 6 to 7
To become evangelizers, to enter the New Evangelization proposed by pope John Paul II, we must live a personal conversion to receive fully the Love of God, of Christ. We must live a continuous conversion, otherwise we do not experience it and live it.
Isaiah walks in the movement of this conversion. But he must also live the forgiveness of his faults to live well the mission that will be his. A seraph takes care of that: “Your wickedness is removed, your sin purged.” This is a major step for faith and for receiving God’s mission.
“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?’ ‘Here I am,’ I said; ‘send me!’” Isaiah, chapter 6, verse 8
After experiencing the forgiveness of his sins, Isaiah is ready to listen to God. Let’s think about this, it’s important. God can offer us his mission, but if we do not live the forgiveness of sin, we aren’t ready to be sent.
God sends on a mission the person whose fault is taken away, the sin forgiven. If not, God is waiting and he may wait a long time. The more we are purified in the grace of God, the more we walk in the mission to which God invites us, because we are more open to him. We become responsible for the mission by letting ourselves be Loved by God.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
332. Our personal mission
Paul invites us to deepen our faith, it’s our personal mission:
“I remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you indeed received and in which you also stand. Through it you are also being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you, unless you believed in vain.” 1 Corinthians, chapter 15, verses 1 to 2
Let’s receive the Gospel, meditate on it, share it. Many of us share on the Word and faith in small groups. Whenever we pray alone or in groups, the Word enters our life and sows new small shoots of faith and hope. To remain attached to the Word and the Eucharist saves us. To move away from it, takes us away from God.
Jesus teaches his Word:
“While the crowd was pressing in on Jesus and listening to the word of God, he was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret.” Luke, chapter 5, verse 1
The crowd stands near Jesus to hear his teaching. When we come together to share the Word, Jesus teaches the group in particular and he also teaches us personally.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Paul invites us to deepen our faith, it’s our personal mission:
“I remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you indeed received and in which you also stand. Through it you are also being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you, unless you believed in vain.” 1 Corinthians, chapter 15, verses 1 to 2
Let’s receive the Gospel, meditate on it, share it. Many of us share on the Word and faith in small groups. Whenever we pray alone or in groups, the Word enters our life and sows new small shoots of faith and hope. To remain attached to the Word and the Eucharist saves us. To move away from it, takes us away from God.
Jesus teaches his Word:
“While the crowd was pressing in on Jesus and listening to the word of God, he was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret.” Luke, chapter 5, verse 1
The crowd stands near Jesus to hear his teaching. When we come together to share the Word, Jesus teaches the group in particular and he also teaches us personally.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
333. In deep water
Jesus says to Simon (Peter):
“Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.” Luke, chapter 5, verse 4
After teaching, he sends the Apostles fishing.
After we have received the teaching of Jesus, we will also be invited to become teachers (fishermen). We become evangelizers of the Good News that is Jesus. We spread his message.
The mission is to find a way to equip people who can evangelize. Let’s just accept the basics of faith, to offer them. We don’t have to worry, the Holy Spirit will inspire us to say what is needed to the people around us. But let’s remain united to the Church’s teaching.
Respect for the person, his situation, a number of factors must be taken into consideration. It’s important to teach through charity and above all to be observant of people’s needs.
If we set out, if we expose the sails, we will discover all that the Lord has sown in us for a joyful evangelization in and for the world. We receive more in ourselves than we can imagine. We become bearers of the presence of Christ with enhanced flavour, just as salt enhances the taste of food.
Let’s learn to keep one foot in the sheepfold and the other in the world, to go to the sheep that are also waiting for the Good News of salvation. Our family and the human family are also the people who are called to holiness, to live through Jesus’s presence.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Jesus says to Simon (Peter):
“Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.” Luke, chapter 5, verse 4
After teaching, he sends the Apostles fishing.
After we have received the teaching of Jesus, we will also be invited to become teachers (fishermen). We become evangelizers of the Good News that is Jesus. We spread his message.
The mission is to find a way to equip people who can evangelize. Let’s just accept the basics of faith, to offer them. We don’t have to worry, the Holy Spirit will inspire us to say what is needed to the people around us. But let’s remain united to the Church’s teaching.
Respect for the person, his situation, a number of factors must be taken into consideration. It’s important to teach through charity and above all to be observant of people’s needs.
If we set out, if we expose the sails, we will discover all that the Lord has sown in us for a joyful evangelization in and for the world. We receive more in ourselves than we can imagine. We become bearers of the presence of Christ with enhanced flavour, just as salt enhances the taste of food.
Let’s learn to keep one foot in the sheepfold and the other in the world, to go to the sheep that are also waiting for the Good News of salvation. Our family and the human family are also the people who are called to holiness, to live through Jesus’s presence.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
334. Learn from the Spirit
Let’s be constantly on a mission to learn from the Holy Spirit, from Jesus and his Church, and the Father, and gradually become the evangelizers of the Love of God. All people are waiting on Jesus’s teaching, without exception, whether they are aware of it or not.
It is written:
“They devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles and to the communal life, to the breaking of the bread and to the prayers.” Acts, chapter 2, verse 42
Together, in fraternal communion “to the breaking of the bread and to the prayers”. In the early days when we were aware that Mass was important, that the teachings of the Church were necessary for our faith and that participating in prayers helped us understand salvation and then live to move toward salvation, we felt the presence of God in us, just like the first christians following the Apostles, have their hearts turned toward Jesus.
Let’s ask Jesus to bring us back to the grounding of our first conversion, our first loving experience with God, the spiritual honeymoon we were naturally immersed in. If we have not experienced this first conversion of the heart, let’s ask Jesus to take our life in hand and show us how to follow him. Let’s be aware of his movements inside us.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Let’s be constantly on a mission to learn from the Holy Spirit, from Jesus and his Church, and the Father, and gradually become the evangelizers of the Love of God. All people are waiting on Jesus’s teaching, without exception, whether they are aware of it or not.
It is written:
“They devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles and to the communal life, to the breaking of the bread and to the prayers.” Acts, chapter 2, verse 42
Together, in fraternal communion “to the breaking of the bread and to the prayers”. In the early days when we were aware that Mass was important, that the teachings of the Church were necessary for our faith and that participating in prayers helped us understand salvation and then live to move toward salvation, we felt the presence of God in us, just like the first christians following the Apostles, have their hearts turned toward Jesus.
Let’s ask Jesus to bring us back to the grounding of our first conversion, our first loving experience with God, the spiritual honeymoon we were naturally immersed in. If we have not experienced this first conversion of the heart, let’s ask Jesus to take our life in hand and show us how to follow him. Let’s be aware of his movements inside us.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
335. Our concern is to teach
Paul recommends dedication to his beloved son, Titus:
“You must say what is consistent with sound doctrine, namely.” Titus, chapter 2, verse 1
Titus also receives some guidance for the homily. Paul says to him:
“Showing yourself as a model of good deeds in every respect, with integrity in your teaching, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be criticized.” Titus, chapter 2, verses 7 to 8
Paul teaches (evangelizes) his best in the days that is his. What he proposes are good recommendations for everyone:
“Our saviour Jesus Christ, gave himself for us to deliver us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for himself a people as his own, eager to do what is good.” Titus, chapter 2, verses 13 to 14
Jesus seeks in each person the one who will transmit his message to the world.
The Church has always had the concern to teach in the midst of customs, cultures, people of her time. Let’s adjust to the people of our time. We are with them, now.
With what was raised earlier in the text, we see that there are many beautiful attitudes that we can already include in our lives with healthy, caring gestures and words.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Paul recommends dedication to his beloved son, Titus:
“You must say what is consistent with sound doctrine, namely.” Titus, chapter 2, verse 1
Titus also receives some guidance for the homily. Paul says to him:
“Showing yourself as a model of good deeds in every respect, with integrity in your teaching, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be criticized.” Titus, chapter 2, verses 7 to 8
Paul teaches (evangelizes) his best in the days that is his. What he proposes are good recommendations for everyone:
“Our saviour Jesus Christ, gave himself for us to deliver us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for himself a people as his own, eager to do what is good.” Titus, chapter 2, verses 13 to 14
Jesus seeks in each person the one who will transmit his message to the world.
The Church has always had the concern to teach in the midst of customs, cultures, people of her time. Let’s adjust to the people of our time. We are with them, now.
With what was raised earlier in the text, we see that there are many beautiful attitudes that we can already include in our lives with healthy, caring gestures and words.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
336. Teaching is necessary
Jesus is with the Apostles and he wants to find a better place to speak to the crowd gathered around him to listen to his Word. He gets into Simon Peter’s boat and asks him to paddle from the shore so that his voice is better heard:
“Getting into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, he asked him to put out a short distance from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat.” Luke, chapter 5, verse 3
Simon’s boat represents the craft of the Church. And Jesus wants to teach Simon Peter that teaching is a necessity to make known the will of God. The Church, in foundation, in becoming, will be invested to teach (to evangelize) the Gospel to numerous crowds.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Jesus is with the Apostles and he wants to find a better place to speak to the crowd gathered around him to listen to his Word. He gets into Simon Peter’s boat and asks him to paddle from the shore so that his voice is better heard:
“Getting into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, he asked him to put out a short distance from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat.” Luke, chapter 5, verse 3
Simon’s boat represents the craft of the Church. And Jesus wants to teach Simon Peter that teaching is a necessity to make known the will of God. The Church, in foundation, in becoming, will be invested to teach (to evangelize) the Gospel to numerous crowds.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
337. Faith unites
The fear of a responsible person is that the disciples begin to scatter when he’s no longer around. We say, “When the cat leaves, the mice dance!” However, the principle that keeps a group together is not only the leader.
The faith of all members weighs in the balance against the temptation to lead away from the Lord. Each member is responsible for staying in the boat.
Moreover, the Church is well organized so that no one is left alone. Jesus wanted Apostles gathered with him to participate in the foundation of the Church and to watch over its functioning, as well as its necessary laws, supporting freedom.
The Apostles also blessed other vocations, in the name of Jesus, who participate and continue the mission. And so on, until now. We need the support of each other’s faith, as in a relay race that leads humanity to the Heart of God.
Paul gives his last recommendations to the Church of Ephesus and at the same time, it’s as if he puts his confidence in their hands. The Church of Ephesus must now find the strength to organize themselves:
I ask you not to lose heart over my afflictions for you; this is your glory. For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that he may grant you in accord with the riches of his glory to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in the inner self, and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the holy ones what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to accomplish far more than all we ask or imagine, by the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians, chapter 3, verses 13 to 21
Paul knows he will not always be with the parishioners of Ephesus. He relies on their faith and union to follow Christ with the Spirit, in the Church, supported by the Father’s will.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
The fear of a responsible person is that the disciples begin to scatter when he’s no longer around. We say, “When the cat leaves, the mice dance!” However, the principle that keeps a group together is not only the leader.
The faith of all members weighs in the balance against the temptation to lead away from the Lord. Each member is responsible for staying in the boat.
Moreover, the Church is well organized so that no one is left alone. Jesus wanted Apostles gathered with him to participate in the foundation of the Church and to watch over its functioning, as well as its necessary laws, supporting freedom.
The Apostles also blessed other vocations, in the name of Jesus, who participate and continue the mission. And so on, until now. We need the support of each other’s faith, as in a relay race that leads humanity to the Heart of God.
Paul gives his last recommendations to the Church of Ephesus and at the same time, it’s as if he puts his confidence in their hands. The Church of Ephesus must now find the strength to organize themselves:
I ask you not to lose heart over my afflictions for you; this is your glory. For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that he may grant you in accord with the riches of his glory to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in the inner self, and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the holy ones what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to accomplish far more than all we ask or imagine, by the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians, chapter 3, verses 13 to 21
Paul knows he will not always be with the parishioners of Ephesus. He relies on their faith and union to follow Christ with the Spirit, in the Church, supported by the Father’s will.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The heart’s mission, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
338. Help people
Let’s focus on this passage:
“Refuse no one the good on which he has a claim when it is in your power to do it for him.” Proverbs, chapter 3, verse 27
This sentence is surprising. Often, we think that we should never refuse our help. It’s full of common sense. But there are two nuances here.
The first nuance is that we should not refuse our help to someone, “which he has a claim”. Who deserves our help? Let’s say that each person deserves our help and deserves to find the Lord.
It might be easier to understand it as follows: “Where it is possible for us to help a person and we’re able to do so, let’s help them, whether they deserve it or not.”
The second nuance is wise: “when it is in your power to do it”. We’re not told to become needy to help or offer what is not ours, such as material, but to know how to recognize our personal resources and help as best we can, at the best of who we are. With discernment, we will know the percentage of what we can offer, if not everything. It is, however, enjoyable to share the graces that God gives us. They are always available, totally.
When we develop the service resources we have in us, we become more willing and effective in our interventions. Acknowledging our strengths and weaknesses is also a blessing within ourselves. Just thinking about it, we start helping ourselves.
We have only few resources. But together, when we form a helping group, we develop the resources and skills to better help others.
In the end, we must help our neighbour. But we must also know our strengths and limitations. Otherwise, we may be hurting more than we’re helping. But this should not stop us from trying to help others in the best way we can.
May we accept to learn at our own pace and be more precise of what we can offer. We do not all have the same resources, but our resources are used when they are well used and shared.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The Fruit that lasts, Normand Thomas
Let’s focus on this passage:
“Refuse no one the good on which he has a claim when it is in your power to do it for him.” Proverbs, chapter 3, verse 27
This sentence is surprising. Often, we think that we should never refuse our help. It’s full of common sense. But there are two nuances here.
The first nuance is that we should not refuse our help to someone, “which he has a claim”. Who deserves our help? Let’s say that each person deserves our help and deserves to find the Lord.
It might be easier to understand it as follows: “Where it is possible for us to help a person and we’re able to do so, let’s help them, whether they deserve it or not.”
The second nuance is wise: “when it is in your power to do it”. We’re not told to become needy to help or offer what is not ours, such as material, but to know how to recognize our personal resources and help as best we can, at the best of who we are. With discernment, we will know the percentage of what we can offer, if not everything. It is, however, enjoyable to share the graces that God gives us. They are always available, totally.
When we develop the service resources we have in us, we become more willing and effective in our interventions. Acknowledging our strengths and weaknesses is also a blessing within ourselves. Just thinking about it, we start helping ourselves.
We have only few resources. But together, when we form a helping group, we develop the resources and skills to better help others.
In the end, we must help our neighbour. But we must also know our strengths and limitations. Otherwise, we may be hurting more than we’re helping. But this should not stop us from trying to help others in the best way we can.
May we accept to learn at our own pace and be more precise of what we can offer. We do not all have the same resources, but our resources are used when they are well used and shared.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The Fruit that lasts, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
339. God’s light shines
Jesus illuminates our lantern:
“No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light.” Luke, chapter 8, verse 16
When we pray and deepen our faith through readings and teachings, the Light of Christ will go through our life to enlighten us.
The following may seem surprising:
“To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.” Luke, chapter 8, verse 18
Let’s put this sentence before the light of God. He who receives Light through his relationship with God will enlighten more, since God will come through him for the good of his people. It becomes like the stained-glass windows of a church, illuminated by the sun. He allows the Light of the Trinity to pass through him.
But the person who’s not walking or even slowing down and moving away from the Light of God, he even loses the glimmer of what he thinks to hold back for himself.
Let’s let God’s Light shine in us so that receiving the best from him becomes light for our contemporaries. Let’s find ways to keep up with Jesus. It will be a wise step into the Light, as the rays of the sun pass through the clouds.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The Fruit that lasts, Normand Thomas
Jesus illuminates our lantern:
“No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light.” Luke, chapter 8, verse 16
When we pray and deepen our faith through readings and teachings, the Light of Christ will go through our life to enlighten us.
The following may seem surprising:
“To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.” Luke, chapter 8, verse 18
Let’s put this sentence before the light of God. He who receives Light through his relationship with God will enlighten more, since God will come through him for the good of his people. It becomes like the stained-glass windows of a church, illuminated by the sun. He allows the Light of the Trinity to pass through him.
But the person who’s not walking or even slowing down and moving away from the Light of God, he even loses the glimmer of what he thinks to hold back for himself.
Let’s let God’s Light shine in us so that receiving the best from him becomes light for our contemporaries. Let’s find ways to keep up with Jesus. It will be a wise step into the Light, as the rays of the sun pass through the clouds.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The Fruit that lasts, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
340. Humility
Paul tells us:
“Nor, indeed, did we ever appear with flattering speech, as you know, or with a pretext for greed - God is witness - nor did we seek praise from human beings, either from you or from others.” 1 Thessalonians, chapter 2, verses 5 to 6
We are christians, we never need to look for honours. This is interesting to find out if we are walking in the Lord’s will. These are christian values to place in our suitcase, for the road.
It’s too easy to take ourselves for someone else and not be ourselves. It’s easy to get into characters that are successful, that we see on TV or that we hear singing, and stop being ourselves. But the way of another person will never be our own personal way. We will never walk in his shoes.
We must not seek to build our personal kingdom, it would be wrong. We already have everything in the Kingdom of God:
“Happy those (…) who enjoys the law of the Lord, it is their joy; God’s law they study day and night. They are like a tree planted near streams of water, that yields its fruit in season.” Psalm 1, verses 1 to 3
To reach wisdom that comes from God, may we let God be God in our life. Better still, may we don’t rely on our own strength and let the wisdom of God pass through.
For that, let’s become very good friends of God. May we recognize the difference between our thinking and that of Jesus. Let’s become more and more filled with his presence. May we know when it is us or Jesus speaking through us.
By the way, we know when we’re talking or the person next door is talking. It should be the same for Jesus who goes through our words. We know when our thoughts come from Jesus or from us. There’s a difference.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The Fruit that lasts, Normand Thomas
Paul tells us:
“Nor, indeed, did we ever appear with flattering speech, as you know, or with a pretext for greed - God is witness - nor did we seek praise from human beings, either from you or from others.” 1 Thessalonians, chapter 2, verses 5 to 6
We are christians, we never need to look for honours. This is interesting to find out if we are walking in the Lord’s will. These are christian values to place in our suitcase, for the road.
It’s too easy to take ourselves for someone else and not be ourselves. It’s easy to get into characters that are successful, that we see on TV or that we hear singing, and stop being ourselves. But the way of another person will never be our own personal way. We will never walk in his shoes.
We must not seek to build our personal kingdom, it would be wrong. We already have everything in the Kingdom of God:
“Happy those (…) who enjoys the law of the Lord, it is their joy; God’s law they study day and night. They are like a tree planted near streams of water, that yields its fruit in season.” Psalm 1, verses 1 to 3
To reach wisdom that comes from God, may we let God be God in our life. Better still, may we don’t rely on our own strength and let the wisdom of God pass through.
For that, let’s become very good friends of God. May we recognize the difference between our thinking and that of Jesus. Let’s become more and more filled with his presence. May we know when it is us or Jesus speaking through us.
By the way, we know when we’re talking or the person next door is talking. It should be the same for Jesus who goes through our words. We know when our thoughts come from Jesus or from us. There’s a difference.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The Fruit that lasts, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
341. Peter’s humility
Our first Pope is full of humility:
“When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and, falling at his feet, paid him homage. Peter, however, raised him up, saying, ‘Get up. I myself am also a human being.’” Acts, chapter 10, verses 25 to 26
Even if Peter is the Pope whom Jesus has chosen, he knows his rightful place. Already in the Church that is beginning to form, Peter is aware that Jesus continues to be Lord and God. It’s amazing!
Peter knew Jesus and lived with him. He was appointed by him the head of the Church. He’s also responsible for the Apostles. He would have all the reasons to “brag about”, to become proud and to become someone else.
For every missionary, Peter has just realized an important teaching with a testimony worthy of a Pope. He sees Cornelius coming and throwing himself at his feet. He could say, “You’re a good disciple,” or “get up now and let’s have a drink”.
But by his words, Peter presents himself in a different way. He said to Cornelius, “Get up. I myself am also a human being.”
What a beautiful grace of humility! May we ask this grace to Jesus. By his gesture and words, he helps Cornelius to understand that Jesus is Lord. Peter recognizes himself as a simple man and therefore gives full opening to Jesus. He evangelizes.
Peter cannot do anything by himself and he knows it. He’s on a mission, but not for himself. He’s a missionary for Jesus, for the announcement of the Good News.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The Fruit that lasts, Normand Thomas
Our first Pope is full of humility:
“When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and, falling at his feet, paid him homage. Peter, however, raised him up, saying, ‘Get up. I myself am also a human being.’” Acts, chapter 10, verses 25 to 26
Even if Peter is the Pope whom Jesus has chosen, he knows his rightful place. Already in the Church that is beginning to form, Peter is aware that Jesus continues to be Lord and God. It’s amazing!
Peter knew Jesus and lived with him. He was appointed by him the head of the Church. He’s also responsible for the Apostles. He would have all the reasons to “brag about”, to become proud and to become someone else.
For every missionary, Peter has just realized an important teaching with a testimony worthy of a Pope. He sees Cornelius coming and throwing himself at his feet. He could say, “You’re a good disciple,” or “get up now and let’s have a drink”.
But by his words, Peter presents himself in a different way. He said to Cornelius, “Get up. I myself am also a human being.”
What a beautiful grace of humility! May we ask this grace to Jesus. By his gesture and words, he helps Cornelius to understand that Jesus is Lord. Peter recognizes himself as a simple man and therefore gives full opening to Jesus. He evangelizes.
Peter cannot do anything by himself and he knows it. He’s on a mission, but not for himself. He’s a missionary for Jesus, for the announcement of the Good News.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The Fruit that lasts, Normand Thomas
Re: Normandt' Bible reflexions
342. We’re improving
The couple’s challenge is that each person has his own rhythm and definition of love. The ideal is that each person of the couple improves in the faith. Jesus will ignite Love as it should be. It takes time for someone to realize it, but the experience will be beneficial.
Moreover, every teaching of faith is for each person in the couple, for each spouse. Marriage will be joyful and holy to the extent that each person advances in faith and improves by contact with Jesus.
Each person is responsible for improving his relationship with God, who will, in turn, give graces, a hundredfold, to the spouses. The opening of each one in the couple allows the grace of God to pass into them. This is the only way of a true journey between spouses.
If each person tries to love the other, it’s lost. But if each person connects to God and asks Jesus to go through his heart to love, then there’s joy that progresses every day, even without their knowledge. Each person in the relationship will have a good reason to give more to each other. Jesus transforms the relationship between them.
It’s the same basis for every personal relationship to Jesus:
“As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love.” John, chapter 15, verse 9
God Loves us. Let’s stay in his Love. God Loves us first, we only need to welcome and accept his Love. It sounds demanding, maybe. But there’s nothing simpler to achieve than to remain in God’s Love. Let’s love. It is demanding to stay away.
Abiding in the Love of God allows us to discover and gradually recognize the reason we live, the reason we are created. Sticking to God’s Love makes us more and more like him.
We have not acquired anything by ourselves. We’re not perfect, but we gradually become “love” thanks to God’s “Love”. When we accept to approach Jesus, we accept to let ourselves be more Loved by him. It takes us away from evil, fear, anxiety and purifies us, meeting after meeting, with him.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The Fruit that lasts, Normand Thomas
The couple’s challenge is that each person has his own rhythm and definition of love. The ideal is that each person of the couple improves in the faith. Jesus will ignite Love as it should be. It takes time for someone to realize it, but the experience will be beneficial.
Moreover, every teaching of faith is for each person in the couple, for each spouse. Marriage will be joyful and holy to the extent that each person advances in faith and improves by contact with Jesus.
Each person is responsible for improving his relationship with God, who will, in turn, give graces, a hundredfold, to the spouses. The opening of each one in the couple allows the grace of God to pass into them. This is the only way of a true journey between spouses.
If each person tries to love the other, it’s lost. But if each person connects to God and asks Jesus to go through his heart to love, then there’s joy that progresses every day, even without their knowledge. Each person in the relationship will have a good reason to give more to each other. Jesus transforms the relationship between them.
It’s the same basis for every personal relationship to Jesus:
“As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love.” John, chapter 15, verse 9
God Loves us. Let’s stay in his Love. God Loves us first, we only need to welcome and accept his Love. It sounds demanding, maybe. But there’s nothing simpler to achieve than to remain in God’s Love. Let’s love. It is demanding to stay away.
Abiding in the Love of God allows us to discover and gradually recognize the reason we live, the reason we are created. Sticking to God’s Love makes us more and more like him.
We have not acquired anything by ourselves. We’re not perfect, but we gradually become “love” thanks to God’s “Love”. When we accept to approach Jesus, we accept to let ourselves be more Loved by him. It takes us away from evil, fear, anxiety and purifies us, meeting after meeting, with him.
The new American Bible, 2011-2014
Book: The Fruit that lasts, Normand Thomas