Daily Reflections
The waiting is over. Emmanuel is now with us. God, incarnate in Jesus, has begun His great rescue mission to humanity. Jesus has ransomed captive Israel and all the nations of the earth. The readings today echo the waiting of the Advent season but also recapitulate the exile and glory…
Read MoreThis is the first time I have seen this painting of the Nativity, which does not seem to be widelyknown. However, the sweetness of the faces of the Holy Family, the light with which the painterhas “caressed” these divine characters, and the soft colors he utilized are nothing short of…
Read MoreIn Him There is No Darkness at All. Many of my reflections have brought up the theme of light in the darkness and the idea of what each of us can do to open a space in the darkness and bring some light to a situation. Certainly, there is plenty…
Read MoreChristmas is a feast that demonstrates God’s love for us in a special way. The newborn child is the savior of the world. The purpose of God becoming human becomes clear as Jesus, the incarnate Son, willingly embarks on a journey that culminates in the ultimate sacrifice on the cross.…
Read MoreMerry Christmas everyone! Yesterday, we celebrated the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, and today we are brought to reality with the martyrdom of St. Stephen, the very first martyr of the newly formed Catholic Church. He was stoned to death in Jerusalem, shortly after the death and resurrection of…
Read MoreLight is a reality that is often taken for granted in most parts of the developed world. This is not so in most parts of the developing world where light energy is still a luxury commodity. In my part of the world, where most people don’t have the privilege of…
Read MoreDear Gratia Vobis Readers, On this Eve of Christmas, on this Eve of our Savior’s birth, on this Eve of Light, we want to wish you all the best for the Christmas Season. Enjoy the time with your friends and family. Remain Blessed, Paul [Readings: 2 Sm 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a,…
Read MoreMy dear friends, it is an interesting time as we await the celebration of the birthday of Christ, and the gospel speaks about his cousin John. It recalls his wonderful birth, circumcision, naming celebration, and miraculous restoration of the power of speech to his father Zacharia. Elizabeth and Zacharia have…
Read MoreWe find today that the Gospel and the Second Reading from the Office of Readings (in the Liturgy of the Hours) is bringing our attention to the Magnificat. During the month of December, we have numerous opportunities to reflect on Our Lady Most Holy and Lady of Consolation. The Magnificat…
Read MoreElizabeth recalls. I had almost finished my weeping, through all the years of waiting. I held my sisters’ babes in my arms and nursed the little ones through restless nights, always ready to take my turn with the children. But month by month, year by year, I came to expect…
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