This weekend, the Gospel brings the figure of John the Baptist right before us (Matthew 13:1-12). Tall though haggard, John sports the latest in camel hair with locusts and wild honey as his food, John wants only to be a voice drawing the attention of everyone toward another who nears: “Prepare the way of the Lord!”...
A short piece published in today’s Wall Street Journal cited some findings from a recent study completed by Harvard researchers accenting the measurable benefits of attending weekly religious service. • Children or teens attending a religious service at least once per week scored higher on psychological well-being measurements and had lower risks of mental illness....
In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells the story of two houses (Matthew 7:21, 24-27). While they look equally impressive, one quickly crumbles as a result of a storm’s fury. The other withstood the mighty challenge. Stability and safety is found to the degree we set our sights steadily on Jesus. Sincerely seek to identify your will...
Christians know mercy is received from God in measure we extend it to those whom we encounter. It always begins with the compassion we show to those whom God has placed alongside us – family and close friends. Some works of mercy are decisively spiritual in nature. It is a duty and privilege to: Correct...
As a divine attribute, of course beauty stirs the soul. It properly allures and captivates. Whatever the resplendent form – architecture, art, music, nature, literature, trusted friendship, conversation with God – when beauty is recognized it elicits wonder and awe within the beholder. Time stops, worries disappear, self-promotion ceases. It both surprises and consoles. It...
ADVENT is the four-week period the Church graciously offers so that we can ready ourselves to celebrate Christmas well. And, at the same, time we thoughtfully consider God’s other advents – our own death and His glorious arrival at the end of the age. Christians, make the most of the splendid opportunities these days of...
The Gospel passage chosen for Mass on Thanksgiving Day is the especially moving story of the ten lepers whom Jesus heals (Luke 17:11-19). Jesus acts in the same way with us; it is always He who heals us. Only one of the ten lepers cured feels the need to return and thank our blessed Lord...
Let our yearning soul lead us to the divine King! Christ Jesus awaits our arrival. He presents Himself to us under an appearance so loving, so welcoming, stretching out His arms on the Cross to invite all to make their way to Him. The visible wound in His side symbolizes His love for us. Flee...
Humility is the required route toward recognizing that none of us is the owner of their life. Each of us belongs to the Lord God and it is to Him that we are accountable for the life He has given us.
![Christ the King [C] November 24, 2019](https://littleflowertoledo.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/two-good-mins-2019-300x300.jpg "Christ the King [C] November 24, 2019")
The Feast of Christ the King is a response to the alarming rise of 20th century despotism denying God’s absolute and perfect sovereignty. Dictators violently asserted authority over peoples and suspended religious liberties. At the core of this feast, we boldly declare the inherent dignity all people and our corresponding duty to worship the Lord...
