Mark 1:14-20 Jesus declares that time is “fulfilled”. God’s Kingdom stands at the threshold of earthly time and it makes sense to devote ourselves to this reality. To do this, God gracious equips us with grace; that is, His very power. https://little-flower-2minutes.s3.amazonaws.com/3rd+Sunday+B.m4a DISCIPLES FOLLOW JESUS 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time [B] Beginning this Sunday, the...
“Peace is the tranquility of order.” (Thomas Aquinas +1274) God orders. From the beginning, the Bible reveals God bringing order to chaos. God graciously establishes order by making known His plan for our daily living. Those wholeheartedly respecting God’s ways savor the delights of deep peace. Those departing from it, squander their peace in proportion...
I am eager to share are an outstanding Bible resource giving participants the splendid opportunity to learn and apply God’s Word. The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) on Apple Podcasts The Bible in a Year Podcast, hosted by Father Mike Schmitz and featuring Jeff Cavins, guides Catholics through the Bible in 365...
John 1:35-42 The Gospel Reading scene immediately follows the story of Jesus’ baptism. Jesus’ public ministry now is underway. Notice carefully that Jesus does not issue a call for followers, but some purse Jesus because of the witness given by John the Baptist. If we are to become an intentional disciple, we must follow Jesus....
MARK 1:7-11 Why does Jesus accept John’s baptism? After all, John’s baptism calls for a change of heart in view of the forgiveness of sins. Jesus is sinless, entirely free from all contagion. In this dramatic event, we witness Jesus’ personal solidarity with men and women who are sinners. He takes upon his own...
We will do well to follow the Magi’s example of perseverance. They did not abandon their quest, despite the star disappearing from their sight at times along the way. Interior darkness is overcome by exercising a lively faith. Faith must be practiced. No matter what happens, remain steadfast in your trust Jesus.
Recognize the Child Jesus as our God and King and adore Him with lively faith.
“They were overjoyed at seeing the star.” (Matthew 2:10). The New American Bible translation we hear at Mass today understates the ancient Greek original. A more literal rendering is given us by the English Standard Version: “They rejoiced excessively with great joy.” The Gospel writer Matthew emphasizes the deep joy and absolute exuberance welling up and...
The representation of Annunciation in stained glass window of 12th century Chartres Cathedral depicting the life of Christ masterfully captures the exact moment of Mary’s initial reaction to the Archangel Gabriel’s startling words. Upon hearing, “Greetings (hail), fully graced one! The Lord is with you” (Luke 1:28), Mary is greatly troubled and much perplexed pondering...
We must cultivate interior solitude. When Scripture describes Mary pondering God’s abundant grace, she makes time to prayerfully consider the absolute graciousness of the Living God (Luke 2:19, 51). Modifying a monastery feature, Saint Catherine of Siena (+1380) calls it the “interior cell.” Create it. Defend it. Go there daily and throughout the day. Interior...
