The New Life is Self-Controlled and Upright

LECTIO:                                                                                               Titus 2:11-15

For the grace of God our Savior has appeared to all men, instructing us, in order that, rejecting ungodliness and worldly lusts, we may live temperately and justly piously in this world; looking for the blessed hope and glorious coming of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, Who gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all iniquity and cleanse for himself an acceptable people, pursuing good works.  Thus speak, and exhort, and rebuke, with all authority.  Let no one despise thee.

STUDIUM:
Titus is the person in charge of developing the church on the island of Crete (1:5). Titus is a Gentile Christian who accompanied Paul and Barnabas for a while. Here he is an administrator charged with faith formation.  Paul is telling Titus the type of persons needed for evangelization.  Good works are to be evidence of their faith (3:8) and they will be given the grace to carry on their work.

MEDITATIO:

These verses sound like they might have been instructions at a baptism.  They are good instructions.  I was given this reading a few hours ago, to replace Hebrews 1:1-6.  It will be the second reading on Christmas Day.  When the pastor does this, it is because his homily addresses these verses.  Since it's Christmas, the church will be packed.  Many don't come to church, regularly, but they feel the need to do something special for Christmas.  They might not come regularly because of the current sex scandals.  If so, the last sentence is perfect: Let no one despise thee.

ORATIO:

Lord, may the instructions given in Titus 2:11-15 make our people think.  Give them courage and perseverence to spread the faith.

CONTEMPLATIO:

I reject all unholiness and proclaim Our Savior, Jesus Christ.

RESOLUTIO:

I need to constantly keep up my personal faith formation to be able to evangelize.