This week, I struggled in my first read through to find the common thread that I wanted to write about.  I think part of it was being distracted by the “big” events that are taking place, with God’s promise to Abram in the First Reading and the Transfiguration depicted in the Gospel.  And with the … Read more

As we begin Lent this week, the readings do a great job of providing context to our journey over the next six weeks.  In the First Reading, Moses recalls their journey from the promised land down to Egypt and their return.  An important note was made in his recollection, and that was the call of … Read more

As we begin our journey in Lent, I figured I would put a quick note out about the readings today for Ash Wednesday and post my regular reflection tomorrow for the weekend’s set of readings.  Ash Wednesday has always had a certain “specialness” to it in my life.  Growing up attending a Catholic school, it … Read more

It is humbling to take to heart the words we hear each Sunday.  If you listen closely and reflect, there is always some aspect that we can take and apply.  This week, however, is a strong dose of reality, telling us to truly look inside ourselves.  Since the First Reading and the Gospel are comparable … Read more

In the Second Reading, St. Paul is expressing to us what change is required as we journey through life with God.  The first gift, that of life, was given to Adam and all those who came after, whereas the spiritual gift, that of heaven and ever-lasting life, came from Jesus, the new Adam.  Although our … Read more

The consistent theme this week delivers an always-relevant message: Put your trust in the Lord, and all will be well.  From the stark contrast of the images provided in the First Reading to the Beatitudes delivered by Jesus in the Gospel, we hear the virtues that are attainable, if only we will listen and follow.  … Read more

Through Isaiah, St Paul’s letter, and the Gospel, we are told of similar situations occurring throughout all the readings: God cleanses all who are willing.  We’ll dig into both parts of this message, examining the latter part first – the willingness of man. In all three readings, we are told how each views themselves as … Read more

In listening to Jeremiah’s words in the First Reading, he reiterates God’s importance in our life, which is reiterated in the Psalm.  To paraphrase these: God is our salvation, the source of our strength, the backbone that keeps us upright.  God is our refuge and our protector, and will provide solace in times of need.  … Read more

The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord offers a rare window into a “normal” moment for Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Here, we see them simply fulfilling their religious obligations as parents.  It is a quiet but striking reminder that even the Holy Family submitted to the institutional worship and traditions developed over centuries in … Read more

When the people of Nehemiah and Ezra’s time heard the Word proclaimed after their return from exile, they wept for joy. That physical reaction of recognizing the tangible and intangible strength of God’s Word is echoed in the Psalmist’s response: Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.  Ezra’s subsequent command to share with others and … Read more