Meditations on the Luminous Mysteries

The Baptism of Jesus

“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’” - John 1:29 As you meditate on the mystery of Jesus' Baptism, think of the Israelites in the book of Exodus and how their journey to the Promised Land parallels our lives today. They passed through water (the Red Sea), which prefigures Baptism. They wandered in the desert for 40 years (a generation), signifying our time on earth. Only then could they reach the Promised Land, or heaven. In order to reach the Promised Land, they must cross the Jordan River, led by Moses’ successor, Joshua. Joshua is a "Christ figure" who leads the people through the Jordan River, prefiguring the Baptism of Jesus who will lead us to eternal life. How you can use your brief time on earth to give glory to Christ through your words and actions?

The Proclamation of the Kingdom

“The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the gospel.” - Mark 1:15 How you can proclaim that the kingdom of heaven is at hand through your actions, words and deeds? Resolve to act as a true Christian and treat all people as brothers and sisters in Christ. Pray for them, even when they are rude or insensitive or just plain sinful. It is a difficult task, and we often fail, but keep asking for the grace to accomplish this. Like John the Baptist, be a "voice crying out in the wilderness" (John 1:23). In our secular society, too often we Catholics are reluctant to speak up for what is right. Sometimes we just don't know what to do, but we can ask the Holy Spirit for guidance.

The Transfiguration

“And [Jesus] was transfigured before them, and His face shone like the sun, and His garments became white as light.” -Matthew 17:2 Jesus took Peter, James and John up on the mountain to pray. He changed His appearance, showing His heavenly glory, to strengthen the resolve of these future leaders of the Church. We can also bring about our own transformation through the power of the Rosary. Consider this powerful quote by St. Louis de Montfort in his must-read book, The Secret of the Rosary: “... Even if you are now on the brink of damnation, even if you have one foot in hell, even if you have sold your soul to the devil, sooner or later you will be converted. Heaven will amend your life and save your soul if you say the Rosary devoutly every day of your life.”

The Institution of the Eucharist

“Jesus took bread, and blessed, and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, ‘Take, eat; this is my body.’” - Matthew 26:26 Consider the example of Blessed Imelda. During her lifetime, children did not receive First Communion until about the age of 14, but Imelda did not want to wait that long. She watched longingly as others waited in line for the Body and Blood of Jesus. She said, "Tell me, can anyone receive Jesus into his heart and not die?" At age 11, a miracle occurred, allowing her to finally receive her First Communion. She returned to her pew in a state of ecstasy and literally died of happiness. As you wait in line for Communion, think of Blessed Imelda's words. Are you so filled with joy at the prospect of actually receiving Jesus' Body and Blood that you could die of happiness?