Fear is an especially unsettling feeling that seeks to influence our daily experience: the fear one person has more than another; the fear of COVID-19; the fear of economic hardship; the fear of violence; the fear of injustice and continuing exploitation of the vulnerable. More broadly, fear of the future is felt associated, for some,...
As Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew, casting a net into the sea; they were fishermen. He said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him. (Matthew...
ADVENT marks a new liturgical year It is the spring time of the Church, a fresh start; today we begin. It is time to awaken from our slumber so to bring forth fruits of charity. Though fatigued from everything this year, it now is high-time to rid the lethargy and cast off the disappointment. Beginning...
ADVENT is the time designated by the Church to prepare for our Savior’s arrival. In ages past, hope fueled the longing for the Messiah, but ours is more of a strong confident desire founded on the consolation of knowing our Redemption already is accomplished. Resist temptations to reduce ADVENT to a nostalgic musing merely looking...
While everyone has a dread of contracting COVID-19, how indifferent and easy-going even Christians seem to the contagion of sin seeking to devour the soul. Jesus, have mercy on us! Fortunately, God’s Word reveals the remedy for sin. Sincere humility enables us to recognize our need for divine mercy. To the degree we first realize...
In today’s Gospel, our blessed Lord is deeply moved by the widow’s offering (Luke 21:1-4). God values her gift most of all explaining, “for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood” (v. 4). The Lord wants us to offer Him everything –...
God expects us to act (Matthew 25:14-30). In Jesus’ story, the owner knows the capacities of each servant and gives to each accordingly. The biblical word translated as “talent” does not mean a skill, but is an ancient unit of currency (“one talent” likens a “million dollars”). All three servants have received a veritable treasure....
Becoming a saint begins with wanting to become one. Think back on something you sought to make happen? I can remember how passionately I wanted to make the team, get accepted into the program and learn a foreign language. The desire to succeed fueled the effort necessary to make it happen. Determination makes a saint....
Matthew 25:1-13 Sleepiness descends upon everyone. The delay of the bridegroom leads to both wise and foolish falling asleep. God does not work according to our schedule. Two symbols at the center of Jesus’ parable about God’s Kingdom. Lamp = Light of Christ within us Oil = Grace (which increases from charitable actions) What is...
Those daring to utter “Yes” to Jesus are those willing and committed to living as His disciples. It means cutting out the things that are incongruent with His way. Assuredly, is a challenge for me live as Jesus’ disciple. It is a choice I make today. How about you?
