The readings of today present a striking spiritual paradox: sometimes the greatest graces of God are hidden in the simplest commands. The pathways that lead to profound spiritual transformation are often disarmingly simple but potent. Yet many people miss them because their hearts are burdened by pride, suspicion, or spiritual…
The readings of today demonstrate the human longing for life and God who knows the deepest human longings. It is a story of thirst, physical, spiritual, and communal, and of a Savior who alone can satisfy the deepest longings of the human heart. The Gospel scenario portrays a humble and…
“So he hired himself out to one of the local citizens who sent him to his farm to tend the swine.” From the first chapters of the book of Genesis, we can see that man was created to spend his life in work for the glory of God. This is…
Today’s first reading and Gospel remind us of God’s providence, and that we need to respond in the proper way. The first reading marks the beginning of a very long story about Joseph. The whole affair takes about ten chapters to sort out. Let’s recall, just briefly, how much Joseph…
I have often seen the truth in Benjamin Franklin’s words: “You may delay, but time will not, and lost time is never found again.” We need to use our time wisely, because once it’s gone, we can’t get it back. When I was a high school sophomore, I put off…
In today’s readings we hear clear words of people ganging up to try to get Jeremiah. It is awfully reminiscent of how the Pharisees ganged up on Jesus, do you not think? “Let us destroy him by our tongue. Let us carefully note every word.” Is this not what happened…
“Make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit.” As I reflect on these words, my mind goes to Lent. What else is Lent other than a time to renew the promptings and true desires of my own heart and spirit? What else is it other than turning back…
The two verses from Luke’s gospel presented today are quite compelling—one message: “Be Merciful as your heavenly Father” (Luke 6:36-38). From a human perspective, Mercy is placing oneself in a situation of someone else who requires assistance. Do we all need help? Yes, we do, we need authentic help, the…
In today’s Gospel, Our Lord says, “Be perfect as your Heavenly Father is Perfect.” -Mt 5:48. At first glance, there may be a lot of fear when reading this command. How are we to become perfect when we are constantly making the same mistakes, confessing the same sins, and coming…
Reflecting on Jesus’ words, one may conclude that we live in a world of misplaced priorities. In the pursuit of success, some people hurt others. Yet instead of seeking forgiveness, they plan thanksgiving services, undertake stringent mortifications, or engage in spiritual exercises such as the Stations of the Cross. They…