Feb 20, 2025 | DAILY BREAD
Friday of week 6 in Ordinary Time
Saint Peter Damian, Bishop, Doctor
First reading Genesis 11:1-9
The story of the Tower of Babel highlights humanity’s attempt to assert its own power and identity apart from God through the building of a monument to their own greatness. The people’s desire to “make a name for ourselves” reflects a deep-seated human inclination toward self-glorification and autonomy, often at the expense of their relationship with God. In seeking to build a future on their own terms, they neglected the essential role of the divine, leading to fragmentation, confusion, and the breakdown of communication. This narrative reveals a profound truth: when human language is used without reference to the love of God, it becomes a tool for pride and division. Love of God is the true universal language that transcends barriers, uniting people across cultures, nations, and tongues. It is through this divine love that authentic communication and harmony are restored, as beautifully revealed at Pentecost, where the confusion of Babel is reversed and people of all languages understand the message of the Gospel. Any human project that sidelines God ultimately collapses into disorder, but when rooted in His love, it becomes a path to unity and peace. Let’s reflect: In what areas of my life am I striving to “make a name for myself” apart from God, and how can I allow His love to become the foundation that unites my intentions, relationships, and purpose?
Don Giorgio
Feb 19, 2025 | DAILY BREAD
Thursday of week 6 in Ordinary Time
First reading Genesis 9:1-13
In the first reading from Genesis 9:1-13, God establishes a profound covenant with humanity, symbolized by the rainbow set in the clouds—a sign of His enduring promise to creation. This covenant is not merely a divine gesture of mercy following the flood but is deeply rooted in the fundamental value of life. Before placing His bow in the sky, God emphasizes the sanctity and preciousness of life, underscoring that every human being holds inherent dignity and worth. The rainbow thus becomes more than a symbol of peace; it stands as a visible reminder of God’s unwavering commitment to protect and cherish life in all its forms. In a world often marked by conflict and disregard for life, this covenant calls us to recognize the sacredness embedded in every person and to uphold the divine intention of life as a gift to be respected, nurtured, and preserved. Let’s reflect: How do I honor the sacredness of life in my daily choices and relationships, recognizing it as the foundation of God’s covenant with humanity?
Don Giorgio
Feb 18, 2025 | DAILY BREAD
Wednesday of week 6 in Ordinary Time
First reading Genesis 8:6-13,20-22
In this passsage we see Noah sending out the dove as a sign of hope and renewal after the flood. When the dove does not return, it signifies that the earth has been cleansed, and life can begin anew. The dove, often a symbol of peace, finds a place to settle only after evil has been purified, indicating that true peace can only take root where righteousness prevails. Just as the flood washed away corruption, preparing the world for a fresh beginning, so too must hearts be purified for peace to dwell within them. Noah’s offering after leaving the ark further reinforces this, as God responds with a promise never again to curse the earth in such a way, affirming that renewal and divine mercy go hand in hand. This passage reminds us that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of a space where goodness can thrive. Let’s reflect: Am I actively creating space for peace in my life by allowing God to cleanse my heart of sin, or am I still holding onto things that prevent true renewal?
Don Giorgio
Feb 17, 2025 | DAILY BREAD
Tuesday of week 6 in Ordinary Time
First reading Genesis 6:5-8,7:1-5,10
The story of Noah’s Ark serves as a profound symbol of God’s justice and mercy. The passage begins by describing the great wickedness that had spread across the earth, with human hearts consumed by evil. Yet, amid the corruption, Noah stands out as a righteous man who finds favour in God’s eyes. This contrast reveals an essential truth: God does not overlook goodness, even when it seems overshadowed by sin. The Ark itself becomes a powerful representation of divine salvation—God’s response to preserve what is good in a world threatened by destruction. Just as He spares Noah and his family along with the animals, God continuously seeks to redeem and protect those who remain faithful to Him. This narrative is not merely about punishment but about hope, demonstrating that God’s justice is always accompanied by His mercy. Even in times of trial and judgment, God’s ultimate desire is to save rather than to destroy, ensuring that righteousness endures. The story of Noah’s Ark, therefore, is not only a historical account but a timeless reminder that God sees, values, and preserves the good, inviting humanity to trust in His plan of salvation. In a world where goodness can sometimes feel overshadowed by corruption, how can I strive to be like Noah—remaining faithful and righteous—so that I, may become a vessel of His salvation for others?
Don Giorgio
Feb 16, 2025 | DAILY BREAD
Monday of week 6 in Ordinary Time
The Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order
First reading Genesis 4:1-15,25
The story of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4:1-15, 25 reveals the deep consequences of unchecked emotions and the failure to heed divine guidance. Cain and Abel both brought offerings to the Lord, but while Abel presented his best, Cain’s offering was lacking. The Lord looked favorably upon Abel’s sacrifice, but not upon Cain’s, which stirred feelings of anger and resentment within him. Instead of reflecting on his shortcomings and striving for improvement, Cain allowed his emotions to fester. God, in His mercy, did not abandon Cain to his bitterness but engaged him in conversation, warning him about the danger of sin lurking at his door. He urged Cain to master his anger, showing that human beings have the capacity to rise above destructive emotions. However, Cain refused to heed God’s guidance. Overcome by jealousy and rage, he acted impulsively, leading to the first murder in history—the killing of his own brother, Abel. This tragic event highlights the devastating impact of unchecked emotions and the importance of self-mastery in the face of temptation. It also underscores God’s justice and mercy, as He later places a mark on Cain, offering him protection despite his grave sin. Let’s reflect: How do I respond when I feel anger, disappointment, or jealousy—do I allow these emotions to control my actions, or do I seek God’s guidance to master them?
Don Giorgio
