God came to us in Jesus, the Word Made Flesh, and identified Himself so closely with humanity that He chose to put Himself in family life. He chose Mary as a mother, and Joseph as a father, to raise Him, underscoring the importance of a mother and father to raise children. And the Holy Family provides a model for how we can engage meaningfully in family life.
We see in the Holy Family an example of the kind of virtues we should exhibit toward one another, manifesting the love God has shown us by coming to us in Jesus Christ. It is this love that aids us through the difficulties of this world unto Eternal Life.
Friday, December 30, 2016
Sunday, December 25, 2016
December 25, 2016: Nativity of the Lord/Christmas Day
God spoke through the prophets in ages past, many of whose words we heard during Advent. But now He speaks to us in fullest expression through His Son Jesus Christ, the Word Made Flesh who comes to dwell with us--O! the wonder and mystery of God in flesh in the baby born of Mary and Joseph at Bethlehem.
God is no longer distant, but has come to be with us like never before, filling us and our world with Light. This is good news of exceedingly great joy that is worth going out to proclaim exuberantly as the whole world rejoices that in the restoration to beauty that occurs as God comes to establish His Reign of peace, justice, and righteousness.
God is no longer distant, but has come to be with us like never before, filling us and our world with Light. This is good news of exceedingly great joy that is worth going out to proclaim exuberantly as the whole world rejoices that in the restoration to beauty that occurs as God comes to establish His Reign of peace, justice, and righteousness.
Sunday, December 18, 2016
December 18, 2016: Fourth Sunday of Advent
In the midst of the uncertainties of this world, God makes promises to us, and gives us signs to accompany them.
He gives us a rather stunning sign in the prophecy in Isaiah to show how much He cares about us, which speaks of a virgin who will give birth to a child, Who will be Immanuel, God with us.
That is the reassurance an angel gives to Joseph, who is inclined to divorce Mary after she becomes pregnant. Joseph is assured this is all God's doing and is part of His plan. God is with us, and He saves us through Jesus Christ. That is the Gospel message that transforms us, that we answer the call to be holy, preparing a place in our hearts to welcome in the King of Glory.
He gives us a rather stunning sign in the prophecy in Isaiah to show how much He cares about us, which speaks of a virgin who will give birth to a child, Who will be Immanuel, God with us.
That is the reassurance an angel gives to Joseph, who is inclined to divorce Mary after she becomes pregnant. Joseph is assured this is all God's doing and is part of His plan. God is with us, and He saves us through Jesus Christ. That is the Gospel message that transforms us, that we answer the call to be holy, preparing a place in our hearts to welcome in the King of Glory.
Saturday, December 17, 2016
December 12, 2016: Feast of La Virgen de Guadalupe (Te Quatlaxupe)
I attended a festive Mass at St. Mary of Celle Parish in Berwyn for this special feast.
One thing that stood out to me, noted especially in Padre Hugo's homily, was the idea that all humans have dignity that should be respected because God came to save us by becoming a human in Christ Jesus, born as a baby to Mary and Joseph. He values human life so much that He came to be one of us.
And He continues to make Himself known to all peoples of the world, as He gave the knowledge of salvation to the indigenous people in colonial Mexico through the apparition of La Virgen de Guadalupe (Te Quatlaxupe) to San Juan Diego. La Virgen looked like an Aztec, with darker skin.
How fitting the Psalm response is, "You are the Highest Honor of our race", that God should make known His salvation in Christ through such messengers as la Virgen and San Juan Diego.
And so we are now called to value all people as He does.
One thing that stood out to me, noted especially in Padre Hugo's homily, was the idea that all humans have dignity that should be respected because God came to save us by becoming a human in Christ Jesus, born as a baby to Mary and Joseph. He values human life so much that He came to be one of us.
And He continues to make Himself known to all peoples of the world, as He gave the knowledge of salvation to the indigenous people in colonial Mexico through the apparition of La Virgen de Guadalupe (Te Quatlaxupe) to San Juan Diego. La Virgen looked like an Aztec, with darker skin.
How fitting the Psalm response is, "You are the Highest Honor of our race", that God should make known His salvation in Christ through such messengers as la Virgen and San Juan Diego.
And so we are now called to value all people as He does.
Sunday, December 11, 2016
December 11, 2016: Third Sunday in Advent/Gaudete Sunday
Even as we await the coming of the Lord Jesus, we are filled with great joy because of the greatness of what's coming.
We anticipate how the Earth will burst forth alive in fullness of new life when God comes, as well as the people. When John sends his disciples to ask Jesus if He's the One, He talks about how people will be made whole again, the blind, the deaf, and the lame, with good news proclaimed to the poor--this is a true sign of God's justice in the world.
That's why the people were filled with such great anticipation and went into the desert to see John the Baptist, because he was pointing the way to the Greater One.
This joy of anticipation sustains us as we wait for God to do His work, which is already underway in us, as we seek to be in harmony and stay steadfast in the midst of all troubles we face.
Lasting joy is that which truly sustains us.
I rejoice further on this occasion as I mark three years since Gaudete Sunday 2013, which inspired the launch of this Scripture reflection blog.
Gaude! Gaude!
We anticipate how the Earth will burst forth alive in fullness of new life when God comes, as well as the people. When John sends his disciples to ask Jesus if He's the One, He talks about how people will be made whole again, the blind, the deaf, and the lame, with good news proclaimed to the poor--this is a true sign of God's justice in the world.
That's why the people were filled with such great anticipation and went into the desert to see John the Baptist, because he was pointing the way to the Greater One.
This joy of anticipation sustains us as we wait for God to do His work, which is already underway in us, as we seek to be in harmony and stay steadfast in the midst of all troubles we face.
Lasting joy is that which truly sustains us.
I rejoice further on this occasion as I mark three years since Gaudete Sunday 2013, which inspired the launch of this Scripture reflection blog.
Gaude! Gaude!
Thursday, December 8, 2016
December 8, 2016: Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary
This feast gives us great reason to rejoice because God took an important step to reverse the curse of sin that came upon humanity when Adam and Eve disobeyed God. He sent the Angel Gabriel to Mary, who obediently heard the Word of God and offered herself to Him as His servant.
Her affirmative response made passage for Jesus the Son of God to enter the world and bring us salvation. As St. Paul writes, we are blessed because God chose us to be free from the stain of sin and be holy before Him, that we may praise our great God.
Her affirmative response made passage for Jesus the Son of God to enter the world and bring us salvation. As St. Paul writes, we are blessed because God chose us to be free from the stain of sin and be holy before Him, that we may praise our great God.
Sunday, December 4, 2016
December 4, 2016: Second Sunday in Advent
The prophets declare that God will come to the Earth once again, with justice, to make everything right, removing all that is wrong. John the Baptist uses powerful images of fire to describe the impact the Messiah will make when He comes to the world.
God's coming to our world will totally remake the world, as the prophecy in Isaiah speaks about, with all creatures being in harmony, just like in Eden.
It seems fitting then we are called to change our ways to be in line with the new world God is bringing to us, to be in harmony with all other people.
St. Paul talks about being in harmony with others, even the Gentiles, whom God seeks to bring into His fold.
Indeed, Christ came as a light for all people, and that is the glory that we are waiting to behold.
God's coming to our world will totally remake the world, as the prophecy in Isaiah speaks about, with all creatures being in harmony, just like in Eden.
It seems fitting then we are called to change our ways to be in line with the new world God is bringing to us, to be in harmony with all other people.
St. Paul talks about being in harmony with others, even the Gentiles, whom God seeks to bring into His fold.
Indeed, Christ came as a light for all people, and that is the glory that we are waiting to behold.
Sunday, November 27, 2016
November 27, 2016: First Sunday of Advent
The new liturgical year starts us off looking ahead to the coming of Christ, a time when God's presence will be in the world in a special way.
We don't know when this time will come, which is why Jesus Christ tells His disciples to be alert so as to be ready for Him.
St. Paul speaks with similar urgency in the 2nd reading from Romans 13, because "our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed". That's why he urges his readers, and us, to turn away from worldly ways and deeds toward ways that are honoring to God, as we abide in His love, which is the fulfillment of His great work of salvation begun in Jesus Christ.
Living in love is the way we advance God's reign on Earth. That is how we changes weapons into plowshares and farming equipment, as Isaiah writes. Not only does this prophecy speak of the end of war, but the process of bringing an end to all malice in our own hearts. It is what happens as God exalts His holy mountain, and all peoples on Earth stream toward Him to receive His instruction, so as to walk in His light, and abide in His ways.
So we remain alert in waiting for His coming, and rejoice even now in His presence among us, as we abide in His love.
We don't know when this time will come, which is why Jesus Christ tells His disciples to be alert so as to be ready for Him.
St. Paul speaks with similar urgency in the 2nd reading from Romans 13, because "our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed". That's why he urges his readers, and us, to turn away from worldly ways and deeds toward ways that are honoring to God, as we abide in His love, which is the fulfillment of His great work of salvation begun in Jesus Christ.
Living in love is the way we advance God's reign on Earth. That is how we changes weapons into plowshares and farming equipment, as Isaiah writes. Not only does this prophecy speak of the end of war, but the process of bringing an end to all malice in our own hearts. It is what happens as God exalts His holy mountain, and all peoples on Earth stream toward Him to receive His instruction, so as to walk in His light, and abide in His ways.
So we remain alert in waiting for His coming, and rejoice even now in His presence among us, as we abide in His love.
Sunday, November 20, 2016
November 20, 2016: 34th Sunday in Ordinary Time/Feast of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Christ is the King!
As is our tradition upon the conclusion of the liturgical year, we acclaim Christ as our King, but for reasons very different than what is usually considered for acclaiming a king.
As is our tradition upon the conclusion of the liturgical year, we acclaim Christ as our King, but for reasons very different than what is usually considered for acclaiming a king.
Jesus Christ is our King not because He wielded great power like earthly rulers, but because He willingly died for us sinners and rose again to new life so that we could be brought back into right relationship with God. He showed great mercy to us when we were separated from Him by sin, as is demonstrated so strongly in the Gospel reading when people insulted and mistreated Him. In the midst of such agony, He forgave a criminal who repents and pleads with Him. What a great example of mercy we encounter at the end of this Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy.
Now, by right of His death and Resurrection, Jesus Christ is exalted and rules forever and ever, He Who first created everything, and continues to sustain it, expressed so well in the lyrical passage from Colossians. In the spirit of David, on whose throne He sits, He shepherds us through all the uncertainties of this life by the power of the grace He gives us because of His Paschal Mystery. He is a true leader Who continues to show His love for His people. He spreads His reign far and wide, a Kingdom defined love, justice, and mercy, by which we receive forgiveness of sins, and then are called extend that mercy to others, advancing that Kingdom.
Christ truly is our King! Let us rejoice!
Christ truly is our King! Let us rejoice!
Monday, November 14, 2016
November 13, 2016: 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
With the end of the liturgical year well in sight, we continue our eschatalogical focus in the readings.
At the End of Time, God will come to judge the Earth with the fullness of justice that is part of His very character. The reading from Malachi depicts His justice like a great hot force: For those who abide in the ways of evil, His coming will bring a terrible blow of destruction. But for those who abide in the way of righteousness, God's arrival will bring full healing as we are restored along with the whole world to true perfection.
Jesus helps His disciples focus on the End of Time, when there will be great destruction and terrible events on the Earth, Even the great troubles we experience now are signs that, in general, the end of the world is coming, even though it is not yet imminent. But Jesus promises that we His people, by faith, will be safe through all these troubles.
That should compel us to stand firm in faith, and keep active in doing deeds of righteousness that show God is present on Earth through us. That is the true transformative power of faith, as demonstrated so marvelously in the life of St. Augustine, born November 13, 354, who turned from lawless ways to righteous living in total commitment to God.
At the End of Time, God will come to judge the Earth with the fullness of justice that is part of His very character. The reading from Malachi depicts His justice like a great hot force: For those who abide in the ways of evil, His coming will bring a terrible blow of destruction. But for those who abide in the way of righteousness, God's arrival will bring full healing as we are restored along with the whole world to true perfection.
Jesus helps His disciples focus on the End of Time, when there will be great destruction and terrible events on the Earth, Even the great troubles we experience now are signs that, in general, the end of the world is coming, even though it is not yet imminent. But Jesus promises that we His people, by faith, will be safe through all these troubles.
That should compel us to stand firm in faith, and keep active in doing deeds of righteousness that show God is present on Earth through us. That is the true transformative power of faith, as demonstrated so marvelously in the life of St. Augustine, born November 13, 354, who turned from lawless ways to righteous living in total commitment to God.
Sunday, November 6, 2016
November 6, 2016: 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Appropriately following up from All Souls' Day last week, when we commemorated all the faithful departed, we are reminded of the reality of the Resurrection, born from an empty tomb on a Sunday morning so long ago.
It gives birth to the great hope that as surely as Christ rose from the dead, we, too, will rise from death to experience life anew. It is a hope that sustains us to bear all difficulties of this world, urging us to strive upward toward Heaven, as testified by the brothers who were tortured with their mother in the story from 2 Maccabees. We need not be afraid, even of death, because our faith teaches us that we will enter a whole new reality when we are raised to new Life, following Him Who is the firstfruits of the dead. That's the point Jesus seeks to underscore with the Sadduccees, who can't embrace the glorious reality of the Resurrection in light of the God Who is Living. We're in an existence that's beyond what we experience now in this life. We can't fully understand what it will be, but we have real hope that by faith it will one day be ours. And so we continue in that hope to live doing good and showing true love that reveals God's presence.
And as the Psalmist says, what joy we shall experience in the Resurrection to behold His glory in Life Eternal. What a glorious truth to behold as the end of the liturgical year nears, and the liturgy turns us toward the End of Time and the glorious reality of being raised to behold God face-to-face in all His fullness.
It gives birth to the great hope that as surely as Christ rose from the dead, we, too, will rise from death to experience life anew. It is a hope that sustains us to bear all difficulties of this world, urging us to strive upward toward Heaven, as testified by the brothers who were tortured with their mother in the story from 2 Maccabees. We need not be afraid, even of death, because our faith teaches us that we will enter a whole new reality when we are raised to new Life, following Him Who is the firstfruits of the dead. That's the point Jesus seeks to underscore with the Sadduccees, who can't embrace the glorious reality of the Resurrection in light of the God Who is Living. We're in an existence that's beyond what we experience now in this life. We can't fully understand what it will be, but we have real hope that by faith it will one day be ours. And so we continue in that hope to live doing good and showing true love that reveals God's presence.
And as the Psalmist says, what joy we shall experience in the Resurrection to behold His glory in Life Eternal. What a glorious truth to behold as the end of the liturgical year nears, and the liturgy turns us toward the End of Time and the glorious reality of being raised to behold God face-to-face in all His fullness.
Saturday, November 5, 2016
November 2, 2016: All Souls' Day
I attended a special Mass at Ascension on this evening to remember all those who have passed on from this life.
I couldn't help but notice a theme in the readings: Though in this life, we encounter the sorrow of death, we have the comforting assurance of Life Eternal, because Jesus Christ lives forever and ever. Acknowledging Him by faith, we know Him as the One Who raises us up to be with Him forever.
I couldn't help but notice a theme in the readings: Though in this life, we encounter the sorrow of death, we have the comforting assurance of Life Eternal, because Jesus Christ lives forever and ever. Acknowledging Him by faith, we know Him as the One Who raises us up to be with Him forever.
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
November 1, 2016: All Saints' Day
This religious holiday has become one of my favorites, because it provides us a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the lives of the saints who have set an example for us in living holy lives that lead us to God in this life, and in the life to come. Their stories are so varied and amazing, all sending us the same message about striving to grow in relationship with God. It's incredible to think that they're rooting for us as they intercede for us before the throne of God.
And that leads to the other reason for celebration this day: We can aspire, by living holy lives in our earthly pilgrimage, to be saints ourselves, here and now, as much as we will be one day in Heavenly Glory with God. Through baptism, God makes us His children, placing His identity upon us, and calls us to a life of Holiness that reflects His character. We make an impact on our world now as people who are purified, even as we look ahead to the great reward of praising God in His very presence.
And that leads to the other reason for celebration this day: We can aspire, by living holy lives in our earthly pilgrimage, to be saints ourselves, here and now, as much as we will be one day in Heavenly Glory with God. Through baptism, God makes us His children, placing His identity upon us, and calls us to a life of Holiness that reflects His character. We make an impact on our world now as people who are purified, even as we look ahead to the great reward of praising God in His very presence.
Monday, October 31, 2016
October 30, 2016: 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time
God loves us so passionately, even seeking after us when we were lost, to bring us back to Him and the vibrant life He grants us. Even in the midst of the vast universe, He cares about us, as the reading from Sirach states so eloquently, because He has placed in us His "imperishable spirit". And He loves us because He made us good. That's why He seeks after us, helping us turn from ways of sin to righteousness.
In the final line of the Gospel reading, Jesus declares His mission is about seeking what is lost. A commentary I read on this story suggests that God was seeking after Zacchaeus just as much as Zacchaeus was seeking after Jesus. May His Love fill our hearts so that we seek after those who are lost, having our perspective transformed to see their need as God sees them.
Before the God who loves us so much, we strive to be faithful to His calling to us, that He be glorified.
In the final line of the Gospel reading, Jesus declares His mission is about seeking what is lost. A commentary I read on this story suggests that God was seeking after Zacchaeus just as much as Zacchaeus was seeking after Jesus. May His Love fill our hearts so that we seek after those who are lost, having our perspective transformed to see their need as God sees them.
Before the God who loves us so much, we strive to be faithful to His calling to us, that He be glorified.
Sunday, October 23, 2016
October 23, 2016: 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time
I went to St. Matthias Parish in the Lincoln Square neighborhood of Chicago's North Side to visit dear Father Larry, former pastor of Ascension--and also to check in on how he's faring in Cubs-headed-to-the-World Series fever ;-).
There is scaffolding in the front part of the sanctuary there because of a painting project. So whenever I stepped out of my pew, I had to duck down under the metal beams. It seems a fitting gesture with the theme of humility in this Sunday's readings.
God is great because He is attentive to the cries of the poor. As Sirach puts it, He's not impartial to the poor, but nevertheless regards the lowly in a particular way. It is them He desires to raise up, that they may truly praise Him, because they know He truly satisfies. That is what distinguishes the tax collector from the Pharisee in the Gospel story: The tax collector humbly acknowledges how He stands in relationship with God, and doesn't presume anything righteous about Himself as he pleads for God's mercy. For Him, God alone serves as a source of righteousness for him.
As St. Paul senses the imminent end of his life, he reflects on how God has strengthened Him to face great troubles, so that he could persevere in fighting the good fight, finishing the race, and keeping the faith, to earn the reward of Eternal Life, that God may be praised. Those stirring words bring to mind the tribute my family offered to my Grandpa Martin when he passed to Eternal Life, receiving his reward for fighting the good fight. It is an inspiring encouragement we have from the saints of old, who are cheering for us in Heavenly glory. What an inspiration for the young people of Ascension who were just confirmed, and for me as I live out my Confirmation in guiding them.
There is scaffolding in the front part of the sanctuary there because of a painting project. So whenever I stepped out of my pew, I had to duck down under the metal beams. It seems a fitting gesture with the theme of humility in this Sunday's readings.
God is great because He is attentive to the cries of the poor. As Sirach puts it, He's not impartial to the poor, but nevertheless regards the lowly in a particular way. It is them He desires to raise up, that they may truly praise Him, because they know He truly satisfies. That is what distinguishes the tax collector from the Pharisee in the Gospel story: The tax collector humbly acknowledges how He stands in relationship with God, and doesn't presume anything righteous about Himself as he pleads for God's mercy. For Him, God alone serves as a source of righteousness for him.
As St. Paul senses the imminent end of his life, he reflects on how God has strengthened Him to face great troubles, so that he could persevere in fighting the good fight, finishing the race, and keeping the faith, to earn the reward of Eternal Life, that God may be praised. Those stirring words bring to mind the tribute my family offered to my Grandpa Martin when he passed to Eternal Life, receiving his reward for fighting the good fight. It is an inspiring encouragement we have from the saints of old, who are cheering for us in Heavenly glory. What an inspiration for the young people of Ascension who were just confirmed, and for me as I live out my Confirmation in guiding them.
Tuesday, October 18, 2016
October 16, 2016: 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Living out faith requires persistence. At Mass at the Holy Fire Gathering for 6th-9th graders on Saturday, Father Ron Hicks, Vicar General for the Archdiocese of Chicago, urged the young people to be steadfast in prayer, because that is part of growing in a relationship with God, by constantly putting ourselves in His presence, which we were able to do so marvelously before Mass in a time of Eucharistic adoration.
We must persist in seeking after God, Who will make all things right, demonstrating faith so that we are ready when He comes. God will deliver, and we are called to believe, which necessarily involves persistence in adhering to the truths of God's Word, which provide a strong foundation living out faith.
In such grounding, we go forth to do amazing things, which I recognize in my own life as I celebrated the 11-year anniversary of my Confirmation on Saturday of this past weekend, and thought back upon all the amazing things that have happened in my life, by faith, in those years.
We must persist in seeking after God, Who will make all things right, demonstrating faith so that we are ready when He comes. God will deliver, and we are called to believe, which necessarily involves persistence in adhering to the truths of God's Word, which provide a strong foundation living out faith.
In such grounding, we go forth to do amazing things, which I recognize in my own life as I celebrated the 11-year anniversary of my Confirmation on Saturday of this past weekend, and thought back upon all the amazing things that have happened in my life, by faith, in those years.
Tuesday, October 11, 2016
October 9, 2016: 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time
There's something about healing and faith that brings them together so much throughout the Bible.
As amazing as physical healings are, what's more amazing is how they summon forth faith, especially from those who were not considered to be the people of God, like Naaman and the Samaritan leper. Truly God is doing great deeds before all the earth, as written in Psalm 98.
Indeed, Jesus speaks to this when He tells the Samaritan leper who returns to thank Him that his faith has saved Him. He has been healed fully in his whole being and spirit.
This healing comes because of the power of God to bring us salvation in Jesus Christ. So no matter what difficulties we face in life, God's power in stronger, and is never "chained", as St. Paul writes. So we endure, because we know God's power is already at work healing us, as we advance toward His Glory.
This was so beautifully represented in the anointing of the sick that fittingly happened at Ascension Parish's Masses this weekend. We see God's working us to comfort us in ailments, which gives us a foretaste of the Glory in Heaven, where there will be no more sickness or ailments, and all will be made whole.
This healing comes because of the power of God to bring us salvation in Jesus Christ. So no matter what difficulties we face in life, God's power in stronger, and is never "chained", as St. Paul writes. So we endure, because we know God's power is already at work healing us, as we advance toward His Glory.
This was so beautifully represented in the anointing of the sick that fittingly happened at Ascension Parish's Masses this weekend. We see God's working us to comfort us in ailments, which gives us a foretaste of the Glory in Heaven, where there will be no more sickness or ailments, and all will be made whole.
Monday, October 3, 2016
October 2, 2016: 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time
There's a lot pressing in on us in this world, enough to make us despair. But in faith, we turn to God, even crying out to Him to save us. Father Hurlbert noted in his homily that crying out to God is enough to demonstrate that we have faith that we can be rescued. And so it becomes not about increasing in the amount of faith we have, but increasing in our ability to use it.
We know He has given us a "Spirit of power, love, and self-control", as in the words of St. Paul, so that we can keep strong in faith, being good stewards of it by living it out, so that we may have the abundant Life God desires us to have now, unto Eternity. So we live our faith ultimately not for our own, but to serve and glorify God.
We know He has given us a "Spirit of power, love, and self-control", as in the words of St. Paul, so that we can keep strong in faith, being good stewards of it by living it out, so that we may have the abundant Life God desires us to have now, unto Eternity. So we live our faith ultimately not for our own, but to serve and glorify God.
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
September 25, 2016: 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Concern for those in need is something embedded into God's character. Psalm 146 praises God because He heeds those in dire situations. And thus He speaks strongly against those who don't take any action to alleviate the plight of the poor in the reading from Amos and Jesus's parable in the Gospel of Luke. As His disciples, we are called while in our walk now toward the Kingdom to meet the needs of those around us, and take heed to who is in need around us.
This is part of our striving toward Eternal Life, pursuing a life of righteousness and staying strong in the confession of faith, which ultimately gives glory to God. It was an incredible moment to proclaim the words of the 2nd reading from 1 Timothy in front of the Confirmation students gathered at Mass on Sunday evening, in the midst of a retreat experience, calling them to this way of living that will be able to experience empowered by the Holy Spirit, even as I reflected on my own journey toward and forth from Confirmation and the ways the Holy Spirit has empowered me.
This is part of our striving toward Eternal Life, pursuing a life of righteousness and staying strong in the confession of faith, which ultimately gives glory to God. It was an incredible moment to proclaim the words of the 2nd reading from 1 Timothy in front of the Confirmation students gathered at Mass on Sunday evening, in the midst of a retreat experience, calling them to this way of living that will be able to experience empowered by the Holy Spirit, even as I reflected on my own journey toward and forth from Confirmation and the ways the Holy Spirit has empowered me.
Monday, September 19, 2016
September 18, 2016: 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Our lives of faith are all about stewardship, kind of like the fourth thing of stewardship Father Hurlbert suggested in his State of the Parish homily this Sunday, beyond the usual time, talent, and treasure. God has given us everything as a gift, especially the faith by which we have a relationship with Him. By managing our resources well, we strive towards the Kingdom of God, even as we use worldly resources to accomplish Kingdom purposes.
While it's strange that Jesus would commend the dishonest steward, certainly the point is well taken that as disciples, we should be eager to strategize in advancing the Kingdom, especially as we use wealth to help those in need. Stewardship of faith necessarily impels us to focus on relationships with others, caring for them and their needs, as we strive toward the Kingdom.
While attending St. Cornelius Parish's 90th Anniversary Mass on Sunday, Archbishop Cupich, the primary celebrant, insightfully shared in his homily how stewardship is about our coming together as a community to make an Eternal impact on one another, which influences how we build relationships now.
While it's strange that Jesus would commend the dishonest steward, certainly the point is well taken that as disciples, we should be eager to strategize in advancing the Kingdom, especially as we use wealth to help those in need. Stewardship of faith necessarily impels us to focus on relationships with others, caring for them and their needs, as we strive toward the Kingdom.
While attending St. Cornelius Parish's 90th Anniversary Mass on Sunday, Archbishop Cupich, the primary celebrant, insightfully shared in his homily how stewardship is about our coming together as a community to make an Eternal impact on one another, which influences how we build relationships now.
Monday, September 12, 2016
September 11, 2016: 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Father Hurlbert said something very insightful at Mass on Sunday at Ascension: Often, when we think of sin and forgiveness, it's a matter of having committed a crime, and then making it up. He offered a different idea: the image of a person once being lost who has been found. It's important for the person who is lost because of sin, and has drifted from the Father, to come to his/her senses and return, as the son does in the story in the Gospel of the Prodigal. It's also what Paul speaks of so fervently from his own life's experience.
God by His nature is merciful, showering it upon us, Whom He has made His people, as Moses reminds God when He, in His anger, is about to smite the Hebrews Whom He delivered from Egypt.
God rejoices in showering His mercy on us when we turn back to Him. Let us live rejoicing in the gift of mercy that God gives us, and that we share with others as we make His presence known. On a sorrowful occasion of the tragedy of September 11, 2001, it is this mercy that truly heals us and makes our world whole, which is truly reason to feel joyful.
God by His nature is merciful, showering it upon us, Whom He has made His people, as Moses reminds God when He, in His anger, is about to smite the Hebrews Whom He delivered from Egypt.
God rejoices in showering His mercy on us when we turn back to Him. Let us live rejoicing in the gift of mercy that God gives us, and that we share with others as we make His presence known. On a sorrowful occasion of the tragedy of September 11, 2001, it is this mercy that truly heals us and makes our world whole, which is truly reason to feel joyful.
Monday, September 5, 2016
September 4, 2016: 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
When we abide in the way of Christian discipleship, we must put our relationship with God above all else, which is why Jesus says we must renounce what we have, and hate those in our family--which doesn't mean "hate" so much as it means "loving less", according to Father Bob in his homily at Ascension Parish's Masses this past weekend. We are reminded of this call as lived out by Christians throughout the world who are persecuted.
It is a difficult way, but beyond that, when we truly commit ourselves to to discipleship, we are transformed: The course of our lives is now directed toward seeking to fulfill God's purposes in our lives, embracing others in the mercy of God as fellow brothers and sisters created and loved by God, that our work may prosper in Him who directs our course by the Holy Spirit. We seek after God day by day, Who is our refuge throughout all time.
Monday, August 29, 2016
August 28, 2016: 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
God, Who was once so distant and stoked fear in our ancestors in faith, came to us humbly in Jesus Christ, and furthermore humbling Himself in death upon the Cross. He thereby made a New Covenant by which we can approach God confidently. And in this New Covenant in which we stand He now calls to us to a way of life lived in humility He first demonstrated to us.
It is giving of ourselves to heed those who are lowly, not to receive a reward now, but rather, as Jesus says, on the day of the Resurrection of the Righteous. This is the way God regards the poor and lowly, knowing we all are to some degree in a state of poverty and lowliness. and this is the way we follow as we strive toward the full realization of the Kingdom.
It is giving of ourselves to heed those who are lowly, not to receive a reward now, but rather, as Jesus says, on the day of the Resurrection of the Righteous. This is the way God regards the poor and lowly, knowing we all are to some degree in a state of poverty and lowliness. and this is the way we follow as we strive toward the full realization of the Kingdom.
Tuesday, August 23, 2016
August 21, 2016: 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time
God gives a glorious vision in the Book of Isaiah about His people returning to Him, and all the nations coming, too.
God, indeed, is bringing His people together to be with Him, promising a place in His Presence in Heaven. But the path is not an easy one. At times, it requires strenuous effort to attain something so glorious. That's probably why Jesus says that there will be those who won't be strong enough to enter Heaven, not that God doesn't want all people to come to Him. Hebrews furthermore adds that the difficulties we face in striving for the Kingdom is a matter of experiencing discipline, which produces something awesome, namely, the righteousness through Jesus Christ by which we attain Heaven. It is righteousness we display now as we show we care about the end goal through living the values of the Kingdom.
God, indeed, is bringing His people together to be with Him, promising a place in His Presence in Heaven. But the path is not an easy one. At times, it requires strenuous effort to attain something so glorious. That's probably why Jesus says that there will be those who won't be strong enough to enter Heaven, not that God doesn't want all people to come to Him. Hebrews furthermore adds that the difficulties we face in striving for the Kingdom is a matter of experiencing discipline, which produces something awesome, namely, the righteousness through Jesus Christ by which we attain Heaven. It is righteousness we display now as we show we care about the end goal through living the values of the Kingdom.
Monday, August 15, 2016
August 14, 2016: 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Those who proclaim God's message sometimes face great difficulty. Jeremiah is thrown into a cistern because the people in Jerusalem don't want to hear his demoralizing words calling for surrender.
Jesus says that these difficult circumstances should not surprise His followers because His words have such a powerful force to them that it will cause division. No one can remain neutral: either people will embrace the message of the Truth, or despise and resist it.
In the midst of this reality, we fix our eyes on God, so that we may persevere in the course before us, remaining faithful to Him who sent Christ to endure great difficulty to rescue us from sin and bring us into His Kingdom, as He has done for all the saints who have gone before us.
Jesus says that these difficult circumstances should not surprise His followers because His words have such a powerful force to them that it will cause division. No one can remain neutral: either people will embrace the message of the Truth, or despise and resist it.
In the midst of this reality, we fix our eyes on God, so that we may persevere in the course before us, remaining faithful to Him who sent Christ to endure great difficulty to rescue us from sin and bring us into His Kingdom, as He has done for all the saints who have gone before us.
Monday, August 8, 2016
August 7, 2016: 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time
The Kingdom of God is coming, and God wants us to be ready for His arrival.
He has given us the great gift of Faith by the Paschal Mystery that directs the focus of our lives toward awaiting His arrival, because this great gift compels us to live in a way befitting of it: We focus on building treasure in Heaven, and keeping busy in those activities that glorify God and benefit of others, that truly we experience the blessings of being His people. Faith drives us toward a Heavenly Reward, which we don't have a grasp of, but we know for sure it's real, and we aim for it.
While we don't know when He's coming, we live in a way that acknowledges that reality, in a state of constant readiness, eager to behold our God when He comes.
He has given us the great gift of Faith by the Paschal Mystery that directs the focus of our lives toward awaiting His arrival, because this great gift compels us to live in a way befitting of it: We focus on building treasure in Heaven, and keeping busy in those activities that glorify God and benefit of others, that truly we experience the blessings of being His people. Faith drives us toward a Heavenly Reward, which we don't have a grasp of, but we know for sure it's real, and we aim for it.
While we don't know when He's coming, we live in a way that acknowledges that reality, in a state of constant readiness, eager to behold our God when He comes.
Wednesday, August 3, 2016
July 31, 2016: 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
The author of Ecclesiastes spends much of the book wrestling over the meaning of life, in the face of meaninglessness. He comes to the conclusion that is espoused and expounded upon by the other readings. By His Paschal Mystery, Christ has freed us from sin, has made us anew, and now secures us a place in Heaven. Our lives now find purpose in striving for Heaven and accumulating Heavenly treasure, not being so fixated on earthly matters. Jesus refers to a focus on wealth and enjoying its pleasures as foolishness, because it's so temporary. Rather, He calls us to focus on building treasure in Heaven, which is everlasting, to the praise of God.
Focusing on Heaven above was fitting when attending Mass at St. Peter's in Cripple Creek, CO, at an elevation of nearly 2 miles above sea level, and even as the guest priest asked for support for his mission work in Kenya.
Focusing on Heaven above was fitting when attending Mass at St. Peter's in Cripple Creek, CO, at an elevation of nearly 2 miles above sea level, and even as the guest priest asked for support for his mission work in Kenya.
Monday, July 25, 2016
July 24, 2016: 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time
God has won for us salvation from our sins and new life in Him, by Christ's dying and rising in the Paschal Mystery. And He invites us to draw close to Him, to be in a relationship with Him. He wants us to plead for His mercy, confident that He will give it. He wants us to persistently seek Him, as demonstrated by the parable of the person who comes to a friend at night, seeking food for guests.
We must be persistent, because it's all about actively seeking God. He wants us to pray as a way to grow in relationship with Him. Prayer may not always get us the answer we want, but it gives us His presence, which brings us alive in Him, in a whole new way.
Father Hurlbert very insightfully noted in his homily at Ascension this weekend that the one type of prayer in which we're always guaranteed the answer we seek is in the sacraments. For example, when we call down the Holy Spirit on the bread and wine, they actually become the Body and Blood of Christ. In reconciliation, we verily receive God's mercy, which we seek. Indeed, we encounter the very presence of God Himself.
We must be persistent, because it's all about actively seeking God. He wants us to pray as a way to grow in relationship with Him. Prayer may not always get us the answer we want, but it gives us His presence, which brings us alive in Him, in a whole new way.
Father Hurlbert very insightfully noted in his homily at Ascension this weekend that the one type of prayer in which we're always guaranteed the answer we seek is in the sacraments. For example, when we call down the Holy Spirit on the bread and wine, they actually become the Body and Blood of Christ. In reconciliation, we verily receive God's mercy, which we seek. Indeed, we encounter the very presence of God Himself.
Tuesday, July 19, 2016
July 17, 2016: 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time
The readings call us to get to work--the work of growing closer to God. That is what gives meaning to everything in life, when we see it as an opportunity to be present to God and glorify Him.
Part of this is having an attentiveness to our circumstances that makes us aware of God's presence in them. This kind of awareness is what makes Abraham act immediately when three visitors arrive. Aware of their Divine nature, he offers Them gracious hospitality.
Martha keeps busy in waiting upon the Lord Jesus when He comes as a guest, but loses sight of how meaningful it is to be in His presence because she's so busy in the act of waiting on Him. When she openly expresses her frustration with her sister, who should have been helping her, Jesus draws her attention to what is most important--that which Mary keeps aware of as she remains at His feet, being present to Him and the gracious words He offers. (The commentary in the lector workbook I use notes that in that society it was not a woman's place to be at the feet of a rabbi, and a woman was expected to be serving in the kitchen. Truly Jesus is bringing about a new social order.)
Father Hurlbert put it well in his homily at Mass, saying that any work we do for God should keep us busy like Martha, but we should come out of it like Mary, with a greater awareness of God's presence. In so entering His presence, we are more aware of the Mystery that God has drawn us into, that we, made righteousness, may abide in His presence.
Part of this is having an attentiveness to our circumstances that makes us aware of God's presence in them. This kind of awareness is what makes Abraham act immediately when three visitors arrive. Aware of their Divine nature, he offers Them gracious hospitality.
Martha keeps busy in waiting upon the Lord Jesus when He comes as a guest, but loses sight of how meaningful it is to be in His presence because she's so busy in the act of waiting on Him. When she openly expresses her frustration with her sister, who should have been helping her, Jesus draws her attention to what is most important--that which Mary keeps aware of as she remains at His feet, being present to Him and the gracious words He offers. (The commentary in the lector workbook I use notes that in that society it was not a woman's place to be at the feet of a rabbi, and a woman was expected to be serving in the kitchen. Truly Jesus is bringing about a new social order.)
Father Hurlbert put it well in his homily at Mass, saying that any work we do for God should keep us busy like Martha, but we should come out of it like Mary, with a greater awareness of God's presence. In so entering His presence, we are more aware of the Mystery that God has drawn us into, that we, made righteousness, may abide in His presence.
Tuesday, July 12, 2016
July 10, 2016: 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time
God speaks His Word to us, now in Jesus Christ who speaks from within our hearts, that we might respond to His invitation of love: His Word ultimately calls us to turn outward to show love to other people. Regardless of who they are, they are all the same in that by showing them mercy, and loving them from the heart, they become our neighbor. Indeed, there is much room for us to expand our horizons in embracing so many others as "neighbor" in the exchanging of mercy.
This love comes as God, the Creator, has reconciled all through the redemptive blood of His Son Jesus Christ. By the Paschal Mystery, God shows us love, and so we love Him back, and then turn to love others in showing them mercy in action.
This love comes as God, the Creator, has reconciled all through the redemptive blood of His Son Jesus Christ. By the Paschal Mystery, God shows us love, and so we love Him back, and then turn to love others in showing them mercy in action.
Tuesday, July 5, 2016
July 3, 2016: 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time
God gives us comfort and assurance that He will come to us and lavish us with His abundant care. We can trust in Him and rejoice because He is bringing us a Kingdom. We who are His disciples now have our lives directed by working to bring forth this Kingdom in our world, and one day, we will enter it.
It is a Kingdom that is ours when we commit our lives to the Cross, by which we have been made new. At this time of year when we the people of the United States celebrate our freedom, we Christians recall, as Paul writes in stirring words in Galatians 6, the glorious freedom won for us in the Cross of Christ.
It is a Kingdom that is ours when we commit our lives to the Cross, by which we have been made new. At this time of year when we the people of the United States celebrate our freedom, we Christians recall, as Paul writes in stirring words in Galatians 6, the glorious freedom won for us in the Cross of Christ.
Wednesday, June 29, 2016
June 26, 2016: 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time
We heard in last weekend's Gospel what it means to follow in the way of Christ, our Lord. Today, the conditions for discipleship are spelled out in greater specifics. We must be willing to forgo whatever distracts us as we follow Him. In so following, we receive an inheritance that leads to Eternal Life. It is at work in us even now as we are set free from sin that we may live in His way of Love, in service to others.
The reading from Galatians presents some meaningful principles as we in the United States approach the Independence Day holiday. While we cherish freedom, it ultimately finds its meaning when we use it for the purposes of building a better society, a better world for all people.
This is a commitment that the Founding Fathers made. I couldn't help but think about this idea of commitment while watching 1776, a musical about the independence of the United States. Abigail Adams reminds John Adams about the importance of commitment, and then shortly thereafter in the movie, John signs about making a commitment, going forward and not looking back, burning the bridges behind him, even in the face of naysayers.
Commitment was on my mind when I attended Mass at St. Teresa's this past Sunday. I was called anew to a commitment to faith when I first came to St. Teresa's on the threshold of my freshman year at ValpU, entering a community that committed itself to serving God by supporting us students. Father Kevin celebrated his final weekend of Masses there today, with all the various unique marks of his sense of ministry. It was touching in his final remarks when we recognized and thanked the students and alumni present, because we are the driving force behind the ministry. I indeed remembering receiving such support, which spurred me on to be the best version of myself while committing myself to living this great gift of faith I had received.
Father Kevin demonstrates his commitment to his vocation, even in the sadness of leaving a wonderful community. He faces the demands of discipleship, that he may faithfully serve our God, as we are all called to do.
The reading from Galatians presents some meaningful principles as we in the United States approach the Independence Day holiday. While we cherish freedom, it ultimately finds its meaning when we use it for the purposes of building a better society, a better world for all people.
This is a commitment that the Founding Fathers made. I couldn't help but think about this idea of commitment while watching 1776, a musical about the independence of the United States. Abigail Adams reminds John Adams about the importance of commitment, and then shortly thereafter in the movie, John signs about making a commitment, going forward and not looking back, burning the bridges behind him, even in the face of naysayers.
Commitment was on my mind when I attended Mass at St. Teresa's this past Sunday. I was called anew to a commitment to faith when I first came to St. Teresa's on the threshold of my freshman year at ValpU, entering a community that committed itself to serving God by supporting us students. Father Kevin celebrated his final weekend of Masses there today, with all the various unique marks of his sense of ministry. It was touching in his final remarks when we recognized and thanked the students and alumni present, because we are the driving force behind the ministry. I indeed remembering receiving such support, which spurred me on to be the best version of myself while committing myself to living this great gift of faith I had received.
Father Kevin demonstrates his commitment to his vocation, even in the sadness of leaving a wonderful community. He faces the demands of discipleship, that he may faithfully serve our God, as we are all called to do.
Sunday, June 19, 2016
June 19, 2016: 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time
On this Fathers' Day, we are given the opportunity to ponder what it means to be children of God.
By His death and resurrection, Christ has adopted us into God's family, cleansing us who are in sin, and giving us a share in His identity as the Son of God.
But sharing in this identity means that we share also in His sufferings, taking up our Cross to follow Him. We don't merely bear His identity through belief, but furthermore through actions of mercy, giving of ourselves as Christ has done. We live out this relationship, seeking after Him Who alone satisfies us because His identity is upon us.
By His death and resurrection, Christ has adopted us into God's family, cleansing us who are in sin, and giving us a share in His identity as the Son of God.
But sharing in this identity means that we share also in His sufferings, taking up our Cross to follow Him. We don't merely bear His identity through belief, but furthermore through actions of mercy, giving of ourselves as Christ has done. We live out this relationship, seeking after Him Who alone satisfies us because His identity is upon us.
Monday, June 13, 2016
June 12, 2016: 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Our God is a God who lavishes us with forgiveness, perhaps even beyond what we can comprehend.
It is a gift that is ours when we acknowledge our sins, realizing we have done wrong, so that we may receive such a sweet gift. It is not something we earn, but comes only through the merits of the Cross.
And then, as the priest said in his homily at the Philadelphia Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, as forgiven people, we have to extend the forgiveness, not continuing in condemning others. Indeed, this is a gift that overflows to all who will humbly acknowledge their sins and God's power to forgive them.
These readings make me think of something John Newton said as he neared the end of his life: "Although my memory's fading, I remember two things very clearly: I am a great sinner, and Christ is a great Savior." Truly, we are all sinners, all in need of God's mercy, which we can all receive freely and abundantly. No matter what we've done, God can work His mercy in us as we come to Him in repentance.
It is a gift that is ours when we acknowledge our sins, realizing we have done wrong, so that we may receive such a sweet gift. It is not something we earn, but comes only through the merits of the Cross.
And then, as the priest said in his homily at the Philadelphia Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, as forgiven people, we have to extend the forgiveness, not continuing in condemning others. Indeed, this is a gift that overflows to all who will humbly acknowledge their sins and God's power to forgive them.
These readings make me think of something John Newton said as he neared the end of his life: "Although my memory's fading, I remember two things very clearly: I am a great sinner, and Christ is a great Savior." Truly, we are all sinners, all in need of God's mercy, which we can all receive freely and abundantly. No matter what we've done, God can work His mercy in us as we come to Him in repentance.
Sunday, June 5, 2016
June 5, 2016: 10th Sunday in Ordinary Time
We've spent many of the past few weeks since Easter Sunday celebrating the real, living presence of our Risen Savior Jesus Christ.
And we continue to celebrate His Resurrection as we gather Sunday after Sunday, especially with the readings for this Sunday, in which we hear of God's power over death. There are two similar stories in about the dead being raised to life, sons of widowed mothers. God shows that He cares for His people by providing for them, in this case, bringing widows their sons back from the dead so they have their support system--beautifully, Elijah and Jesus both hand the revived sons back to their mothers.
Indeed, the newness of life is a sign of God having come to be with us. And so we cry out to God in faith to bring us newness of Life, and He responds to the faith we display before Him.
God constantly seeks to restore us to newness of life, we who were once dead in sin and alienated from God, like in the experience of St. Paul, which he in the 2nd reading. He revealed Himself to us, by His Very Word, calling us to abide in a new way of life, in which we proclaim the Gospel, even through extraordinary deeds of mercy and compassion.
And we continue to celebrate His Resurrection as we gather Sunday after Sunday, especially with the readings for this Sunday, in which we hear of God's power over death. There are two similar stories in about the dead being raised to life, sons of widowed mothers. God shows that He cares for His people by providing for them, in this case, bringing widows their sons back from the dead so they have their support system--beautifully, Elijah and Jesus both hand the revived sons back to their mothers.
Indeed, the newness of life is a sign of God having come to be with us. And so we cry out to God in faith to bring us newness of Life, and He responds to the faith we display before Him.
God constantly seeks to restore us to newness of life, we who were once dead in sin and alienated from God, like in the experience of St. Paul, which he in the 2nd reading. He revealed Himself to us, by His Very Word, calling us to abide in a new way of life, in which we proclaim the Gospel, even through extraordinary deeds of mercy and compassion.
Sunday, May 29, 2016
May 29, 2016: Feast of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
Continuing on in Ordinary Time, we celebrate that integral part of our faith, the Eucharist.
On the day before Memorial Day, when we in the United States remember the sacrifices of those in uniform, we as Roman Catholics remember the sacrifice of Christ, in keeping with the command He gave His Apostles, and us, at His Last Supper.
Christ gives of His own Body and Blood, which is God's way of providing for us that which satisfies our deepest spiritual hunger. So by partaking of the Eucharist, we declare God alone fills us.
Sharing in this meal, we bless the God Who made us and redeemed us, Who gives us a foretaste of Heaven in this feast that we share now.
But we don't just partake of Christ in the Eucharist. We are compelled by this encounter with His very presence to share His presence with others, meeting the needs of others, having been showered with His mercy as we carry on our pilgrimage of this life.
On the day before Memorial Day, when we in the United States remember the sacrifices of those in uniform, we as Roman Catholics remember the sacrifice of Christ, in keeping with the command He gave His Apostles, and us, at His Last Supper.
Christ gives of His own Body and Blood, which is God's way of providing for us that which satisfies our deepest spiritual hunger. So by partaking of the Eucharist, we declare God alone fills us.
Sharing in this meal, we bless the God Who made us and redeemed us, Who gives us a foretaste of Heaven in this feast that we share now.
But we don't just partake of Christ in the Eucharist. We are compelled by this encounter with His very presence to share His presence with others, meeting the needs of others, having been showered with His mercy as we carry on our pilgrimage of this life.
Sunday, May 22, 2016
May 22, 2016: Most Holy Trinity Sunday
As Christians, we have been made stewards of a great mystery: One God Who is Three distinct Persons.
Though we can't fully understand the Trinity, we see the effects of this mystery around us. God has created us and our world marvelously, in great wisdom. Jesus Christ died to save us, as an expression of the Father's love. And the saving death and resurrection of Christ is made real in us through the Holy Spirit who continues to sanctify us as God's abiding presence within us.
Indeed, the Holy Spirit is the power of God alive in us, as He has been poured out by Jesus, Who has taken what He received from the Father and given it to us. The Three Persons of the Trinity are in a dynamic relationship, being relational by nature, and desires to draw us into relationships, living in and sharing the Love that the Godhead experiences. So each Person is distinct, but they are all One, as God desires to break down boundaries and to draw us together, to have in Love for one another.
So as we live out our Faith, especially by living that Love, the Trinity becomes reality.
Though we can't fully understand the Trinity, we see the effects of this mystery around us. God has created us and our world marvelously, in great wisdom. Jesus Christ died to save us, as an expression of the Father's love. And the saving death and resurrection of Christ is made real in us through the Holy Spirit who continues to sanctify us as God's abiding presence within us.
Indeed, the Holy Spirit is the power of God alive in us, as He has been poured out by Jesus, Who has taken what He received from the Father and given it to us. The Three Persons of the Trinity are in a dynamic relationship, being relational by nature, and desires to draw us into relationships, living in and sharing the Love that the Godhead experiences. So each Person is distinct, but they are all One, as God desires to break down boundaries and to draw us together, to have in Love for one another.
So as we live out our Faith, especially by living that Love, the Trinity becomes reality.
Sunday, May 15, 2016
May 15, 2016: Pentecost Sunday
We are once again at the great Feast of Pentecost, celebrating the birth of the Church with the descent of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus brought us new Life by His Resurrection, and though He ascended to Heaven, He promised that He would be with us always.
Those promises of His abiding Presence is now fulfilled in the Holy Spirit, in the outpouring of the Love of the Father and the Son. The Spirit makes God present within us, which brings us alive, as Christ was raised to new Life. And we are transformed, and receive gifts that empower us to bring that Life to the Earth, by doing the work of God, fulfilling the commission He has given us. The Holy Spirit continues to guide us, teaching us and reminding of us of what Jesus Christ said, even as He makes Christ verily present within us.
And so where the Spirit is at work, there is new life. I was reminded of this when I attended Mass with the Confirmandi at my home parish on Saturday evening. As I looked out at all of them gathered, I sensed God doing something new as they prepare to experience an encounter with Jesus Christ in Confirmation that sends them forth.
Veni Sancte Spiritus.
Jesus brought us new Life by His Resurrection, and though He ascended to Heaven, He promised that He would be with us always.
Those promises of His abiding Presence is now fulfilled in the Holy Spirit, in the outpouring of the Love of the Father and the Son. The Spirit makes God present within us, which brings us alive, as Christ was raised to new Life. And we are transformed, and receive gifts that empower us to bring that Life to the Earth, by doing the work of God, fulfilling the commission He has given us. The Holy Spirit continues to guide us, teaching us and reminding of us of what Jesus Christ said, even as He makes Christ verily present within us.
And so where the Spirit is at work, there is new life. I was reminded of this when I attended Mass with the Confirmandi at my home parish on Saturday evening. As I looked out at all of them gathered, I sensed God doing something new as they prepare to experience an encounter with Jesus Christ in Confirmation that sends them forth.
Veni Sancte Spiritus.
Sunday, May 8, 2016
May 8, 2016: Ascension of the Lord Sunday
We have arrived again at the great feast of the
Ascension. I couldn’t help but feel of
sense of exuberance at Mass today reminiscent of Easter Sunday when we celebrated the Resurrection
of Jesus Christ.
Now, we celebrate His going into Heaven, where He is
exalted, ruling and reigning forever with the Father.
We His Risen people have hope that we will follow Him, joining
Him in Heaven one day to be in God’s presence forever. It is a hope that spurs us on even now in
this Life, as we seek to follow His way. For He has commissioned us, drawing us together in a community that makes it known to the world He is really risen, as we do His work, even that of extending mercy. He may no longer be physically present on Earth, but He is present in a powerful way, even in us.
Sunday, May 1, 2016
May 1, 2016: 6th Sunday of Easter
Jesus prepares His disciples for His departure, not only in death, but more so, in the context of the end of the Easter Season that draws near, His return to the Father. He has been guiding them along for some time, but now, He promises an Advocate, the Holy Spirit, who will be present to guide them, reminding them of all He taught them--what great words these are for all His disciples, including us. In His guidance, the disciples will find true peace, and live the love God first showed them in Jesus. When they keep obedient to His Word, God will truly be present, dwelling with them, just as we await to enter the fullness of God's dwelling in Heaven.
And we make that Heavenly dwelling present now as we go forth to live that Love, and draw all people into it. In the spirit of the words Archbishop Cupich spoke in his homily at St. Martin's this morning, it is in living this way of life that we show ourselves to be an Easter people, making the Resurrection a reality, in us.
(By the way, this is the 150th post on this blog.)
And we make that Heavenly dwelling present now as we go forth to live that Love, and draw all people into it. In the spirit of the words Archbishop Cupich spoke in his homily at St. Martin's this morning, it is in living this way of life that we show ourselves to be an Easter people, making the Resurrection a reality, in us.
(By the way, this is the 150th post on this blog.)
Sunday, April 24, 2016
April 25, 2016: 5th Sunday of Easter
In one of my favorite readings to proclaim, John writes of seeing "a new Heaven and a new Earth", brought about by the One who makes "all things new", in the 2nd reading from Revelation.
While we await a future free of death, evil, sin, and sadness, we rejoice that God is creating this reality even now--all God's works are certainly rejoicing. He has started to reverse the effects of sin in Christ, who showed us to love, and commands us His disciples to love. In this love we go forth to preach, in the power of the Spirit, to make the world anew. Indeed, Christ has given us an example, that we might be transformed to reveal Him and His love that changes the world.
While we await a future free of death, evil, sin, and sadness, we rejoice that God is creating this reality even now--all God's works are certainly rejoicing. He has started to reverse the effects of sin in Christ, who showed us to love, and commands us His disciples to love. In this love we go forth to preach, in the power of the Spirit, to make the world anew. Indeed, Christ has given us an example, that we might be transformed to reveal Him and His love that changes the world.
Sunday, April 17, 2016
April 17, 2016: 4th Sunday of Easter/Good Shepherd Sunday
Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd. By His Paschal Mystery He saved us and made us His people, we who strayed and acted up, much like sheep do. He cares for us intimately and deeply as He leads us into the ways of Eternal Life. We who are truly His listen to His voice as He guides us to Eternal Life. Those who don't listen, like in the first reading from Acts, do not follow Him and so are not on the path to Eternal Life.
And in Eternal Life, we will always be under His care as we worship around His throne, as His people, who are drawn from a great diversity of people, as Revelation describes. We find commonality in following the Good Shepherd's voice through all the difficulties of this life until we reach His Heavenly throne.
And in Eternal Life, we will always be under His care as we worship around His throne, as His people, who are drawn from a great diversity of people, as Revelation describes. We find commonality in following the Good Shepherd's voice through all the difficulties of this life until we reach His Heavenly throne.
Monday, April 11, 2016
April 10, 2016: Third Sunday of Easter
One big reason for celebration during this Easter Season is that Jesus who once was dead is now alive forever and ever. As baptized people whose identity is joined with that of Christ's, we share in His dying and rising.
Case in point: the disciples, who are downtrodden from the experience of Jesus's death, and their own failings in the midst of it, are restored to new purpose in their lives and mission when the Risen Christ appears to them. I couldn't help but make the connection of Peter's jumping into the water with baptism, which signal the start of a new life. And as Christ fed the disciples with breakfast, so He feeds us, especially in the Eucharist.
The Apostles then went forth and proclaimed with boldness the message of faith, which was the beginning of the Church that gives us our mission today, because our spot in Heaven is secured.
It is an amazing work He accomplishes in our lives, so that we can go forth proclaiming Him, before all the world in this life, and in the age to come before His throne, for by His dying and rising, He is so worthy of praise.
Case in point: the disciples, who are downtrodden from the experience of Jesus's death, and their own failings in the midst of it, are restored to new purpose in their lives and mission when the Risen Christ appears to them. I couldn't help but make the connection of Peter's jumping into the water with baptism, which signal the start of a new life. And as Christ fed the disciples with breakfast, so He feeds us, especially in the Eucharist.
The Apostles then went forth and proclaimed with boldness the message of faith, which was the beginning of the Church that gives us our mission today, because our spot in Heaven is secured.
It is an amazing work He accomplishes in our lives, so that we can go forth proclaiming Him, before all the world in this life, and in the age to come before His throne, for by His dying and rising, He is so worthy of praise.
Saturday, April 9, 2016
April 4, 2016: Annunciation of the Lord unto Mary
While delayed, I feel like putting in a good word for this important feast, which was delayed this year until April 4. (Notably, the timing of nine months before December 25 fell on Cross Friday. I heard something on Relevant Radio that early Christians believed life and death happened on the same day. And since they remembered Christ's death on March 25, they celebrated His Birth 9 months later on December 25.)
It's amazing what happens when someone says yes. While it seemed impossible that anyone could be born of a virgin, let alone God, all Mary had to do was say, "Yes," and God took care of the rest. It's a great model for us who follow the Lord as His disciples.
In my own life, I thought of this story right before this RE year began, when I was asked to take on a second class. I said yes, not knowing how things would turn out, and what a blessing it's been.
It's amazing what happens when someone says yes. While it seemed impossible that anyone could be born of a virgin, let alone God, all Mary had to do was say, "Yes," and God took care of the rest. It's a great model for us who follow the Lord as His disciples.
In my own life, I thought of this story right before this RE year began, when I was asked to take on a second class. I said yes, not knowing how things would turn out, and what a blessing it's been.
Sunday, April 3, 2016
April 3, 2016: 2nd Sunday of Easter/Divine Mercy Sunday
Something I encountered recently suggested mercy is a way of life, not merely a gracious act in sparing one from deserved punishment.
Mercy is a new way of life that Christ breathed into the disciples when they were in a locked room, in great fear. Father Dan at St. Cornelius even indicated in his homily today that their hearts were locked, so nothing could come in, nor come out--not even fear. Jesus Christ released them from fear, doubt, and even guilt, by His very real presence, and sent them forth on a mission, which we see carried out in the first reading from Acts, as the Apostles works great signs, even in healings, in Christ's name.
Indeed, though we have much to fear, we can count on God's steadfast love and never-failing mercy to raise us up, because Jesus Christ is the One who was once dead, but then came alive again, having forever conquered death. He did it the lives of the Apostles, especially Thomas, who struggled to embrace the Good News of the Resurrection proclaimed to him by the others.
And this day, I celebrated how he did it in my life when I attended Mass in the very parish where I was baptized.
Mercy is a new way of life that Christ breathed into the disciples when they were in a locked room, in great fear. Father Dan at St. Cornelius even indicated in his homily today that their hearts were locked, so nothing could come in, nor come out--not even fear. Jesus Christ released them from fear, doubt, and even guilt, by His very real presence, and sent them forth on a mission, which we see carried out in the first reading from Acts, as the Apostles works great signs, even in healings, in Christ's name.
Indeed, though we have much to fear, we can count on God's steadfast love and never-failing mercy to raise us up, because Jesus Christ is the One who was once dead, but then came alive again, having forever conquered death. He did it the lives of the Apostles, especially Thomas, who struggled to embrace the Good News of the Resurrection proclaimed to him by the others.
And this day, I celebrated how he did it in my life when I attended Mass in the very parish where I was baptized.
Sunday, March 27, 2016
March 27, 2016: Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ
A new order of the ages has dawned now that Jesus Christ has resurrected from the dead, a reality announced by the Empty Tomb to those first disciples, and us. Our eyes are now fixed upward toward Heaven, where we can look forward to being in God's presence because Christ has won it for us by His Paschal Mystery. And as we strive toward Heaven, we proclaim this new reality that Christ is Risen, and lives forever, even in us His people whom He has brought to new Life, who have witnessed this Life abounding.
March 26, 2016: Holy Saturday Easter Vigil
It is a marvelous work that God has accomplished in saving His people that He created to be good. His salvation is something that we experience internally as His graces enter us, making us anew through and through. That is the power that comes as we join ourselves to Christ.
So the Resurrection is a reality that is embedded into our lives now. This story is our story, which God has brought about for the glory of His Holy Name.
So the Resurrection is a reality that is embedded into our lives now. This story is our story, which God has brought about for the glory of His Holy Name.
Friday, March 25, 2016
March 25, 2016: Cross Friday
It's a rather unpleasant day to say the least, that reminds of us the worst the world has to offer: suffering and death.
In coming to us as our Savior, Jesus didn't scorn the worst of the world. He became fully intimate with it, whereby He has redeemed suffering and death. They are now a means by which we can be free from the evils of the world and draw close to God who loves us so much He sent His Son to suffer and die for us, taking on the punishment we deserved for our sins, so that we could have healing, forgiveness, and Life in Him forever.
In coming to us as our Savior, Jesus didn't scorn the worst of the world. He became fully intimate with it, whereby He has redeemed suffering and death. They are now a means by which we can be free from the evils of the world and draw close to God who loves us so much He sent His Son to suffer and die for us, taking on the punishment we deserved for our sins, so that we could have healing, forgiveness, and Life in Him forever.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
March 24, 2016: Maundy Thursday
The Great Triduum has begun...
At a meal commemorating the Covenant by which God delivered His people from Egypt, Jesus Christ instituted a New Covenant in a meal that would be life-giving, in which He gave of His very self for His people. It gives Life because it compels us, according to His new commandment, to love one another, as He loved us.
As we love, and partake of this meal, we remember constantly what He has done for us.
At a meal commemorating the Covenant by which God delivered His people from Egypt, Jesus Christ instituted a New Covenant in a meal that would be life-giving, in which He gave of His very self for His people. It gives Life because it compels us, according to His new commandment, to love one another, as He loved us.
As we love, and partake of this meal, we remember constantly what He has done for us.
Sunday, March 20, 2016
March 20, 2016: Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord
We recall at the start of Mass this day the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. The crowds yelled out, "Hosanna", an expression that means, "Save us." They rightly acclaimed Him as the One who saves.
Yet He saves not in the way the world regards, for He wins through suffering, bleeding, and dying, on a Cross. In this suffering, Christ entrusts Himself to the Father, doing His will, that out of death would come a glorious Resurrection.
We who are baptized are joined to Christ, so that we share in His sufferings, and may have a share in His Resurrection.
Yet He saves not in the way the world regards, for He wins through suffering, bleeding, and dying, on a Cross. In this suffering, Christ entrusts Himself to the Father, doing His will, that out of death would come a glorious Resurrection.
We who are baptized are joined to Christ, so that we share in His sufferings, and may have a share in His Resurrection.
Monday, March 14, 2016
March 13, 2016: Fifth Sunday of Lent
God is doing a marvelous work in the world: We no longer have to stand condemned before Him in our sin. Christ has come, showering us with mercy, directing us away from sin and condemnation to freedom from sin, and righteous living.
We turn our attention from the past because God is making us new, a great work that fills us with joy. The new work is that by faith we are made righteous, joining ourselves to Christ, striving forth to more fully embrace His Paschal Mystery, by which we are saved. In our strivings, we share in His sufferings, in the hope of attaining His Resurrection, which compels us to share the mercy we have received. And so we are part of making new the world.
We turn our attention from the past because God is making us new, a great work that fills us with joy. The new work is that by faith we are made righteous, joining ourselves to Christ, striving forth to more fully embrace His Paschal Mystery, by which we are saved. In our strivings, we share in His sufferings, in the hope of attaining His Resurrection, which compels us to share the mercy we have received. And so we are part of making new the world.
Sunday, March 6, 2016
March 6, 2016: Fourth Sunday of Lent/Laetare Sunday
We've surpassed the midpoint of Lent, and we take this opportunity to rejoice: We rejoice that God is gracious and merciful, ready to rush at us when we turn toward Him, to embrace us with His forgiveness.
We see this as the reality of our lives because God sent Jesus to be the Minister of Reconciliation. Jesus took sin upon Himself, suffering and dying to bring us back to God. We are now made a new creation in giving our lives to Christ, and then extend to others the mercy and forgiveness He has given us. Indeed, in such mercy we see a God who provides abundantly, as He did manna for the Hebrews for 40 years, and then the produce of the land. In Christ, we now have received His greatest provision.
We see this as the reality of our lives because God sent Jesus to be the Minister of Reconciliation. Jesus took sin upon Himself, suffering and dying to bring us back to God. We are now made a new creation in giving our lives to Christ, and then extend to others the mercy and forgiveness He has given us. Indeed, in such mercy we see a God who provides abundantly, as He did manna for the Hebrews for 40 years, and then the produce of the land. In Christ, we now have received His greatest provision.
Monday, February 29, 2016
February 28, 2016: Third Sunday of Lent
God comes to us in our lives, calling us to be something beyond ourselves, just as He called Moses while he was shepherding. Indeed, He appears in many and various ways, such that any place can be holy ground, because His Holy Presence transcends all space and time. (It makes me think back to the Sunday three years ago when I last heard these readings proclaimed, when I was on a service trip at St. Augustine in Winnebago, NE, where God worked marvelously in our group during our week there. And God even did something marvelous as I attended Mass in an unusual way this weekend, at 8 PM at historic Old St. Pat's in Chicago, which was also a wonderful chance to reconnect with my dear friend David Philippart.)
And as God works to transform us, we must always take care and be on our guard against sin, lest we fall away from the presence of God. He indeed desires to show us mercy, but that doesn't mean we'll escape the consequences of sin. So let us be mindful of our relationship with God, by which we are freed from sin that we may bear the fruits of being in relationship with Him, by which we extend God's life-giving mercies to others.
And as God works to transform us, we must always take care and be on our guard against sin, lest we fall away from the presence of God. He indeed desires to show us mercy, but that doesn't mean we'll escape the consequences of sin. So let us be mindful of our relationship with God, by which we are freed from sin that we may bear the fruits of being in relationship with Him, by which we extend God's life-giving mercies to others.
Monday, February 22, 2016
February 21, 2016: Second Sunday of Lent
Recently, I attended my Mom's graduation for her MSN. It was a special experience for me to see her in the midst of this celebration, knowing I'll be there in not too much longer, after I finish the work ahead of me. I can't help but connect this experience with the Gospel reading that's always proclaimed on the 2nd Sunday of Lent.
The story of the Transfiguration reminds us of what lies ahead as we continue on our Lenten journey toward the annual celebration at the Paschal Triduum of the death and Resurrection of Christ. Peter, James, and John get a glimpse of Christ is His glory, after Peter had just acclaimed Jesus as the Messiah, and He in turn had predicted His passion of suffering and death. They, and we, see that after suffering follows the glory of Resurrection.
So now we have hope that because Jesus is glorified, we who are His will share in His glory, too. We no longer have to confine ourselves to what is on Earth, but can look above to what is in Heaven, as St. Paul writes of so eloquently in the 2nd reading. It is this vision that transforms us even now to live like Christ in this life.
And our promise of Heaven is sure because God makes a covenant with us, just as He did with Abram to assure Him of the certainty of His promises.
Truly with the Psalmist we can declare the Lord is our Light and Salvation.
The story of the Transfiguration reminds us of what lies ahead as we continue on our Lenten journey toward the annual celebration at the Paschal Triduum of the death and Resurrection of Christ. Peter, James, and John get a glimpse of Christ is His glory, after Peter had just acclaimed Jesus as the Messiah, and He in turn had predicted His passion of suffering and death. They, and we, see that after suffering follows the glory of Resurrection.
So now we have hope that because Jesus is glorified, we who are His will share in His glory, too. We no longer have to confine ourselves to what is on Earth, but can look above to what is in Heaven, as St. Paul writes of so eloquently in the 2nd reading. It is this vision that transforms us even now to live like Christ in this life.
And our promise of Heaven is sure because God makes a covenant with us, just as He did with Abram to assure Him of the certainty of His promises.
Truly with the Psalmist we can declare the Lord is our Light and Salvation.
Monday, February 15, 2016
February 14, 2016: First Sunday of Lent
At the start of our Lenten journey, we hear again the Gospel story about Jesus's time in the desert, during which He is tempted by Satan. Unlike the Hebrews of long before who put God to the test and were unfaithful, Jesus stood strong in the Word of God and refused to give into temptation and use His powers for His own benefit.
We, too, are called to ground ourselves in who we are, that we are children of God and have a relationship with Him because He first came and loved us, saving us from sin that we might live. And so we declare Him as our personal Savior and Lord. But we don't just proclaim words--we trust in Him day by day as we turn from our desires to His. And it is at the end of Lent, when Easter comes, that we renew ourselves in the faith that, in baptism, brought us into relationship with Him.
We, too, are called to ground ourselves in who we are, that we are children of God and have a relationship with Him because He first came and loved us, saving us from sin that we might live. And so we declare Him as our personal Savior and Lord. But we don't just proclaim words--we trust in Him day by day as we turn from our desires to His. And it is at the end of Lent, when Easter comes, that we renew ourselves in the faith that, in baptism, brought us into relationship with Him.
Friday, February 12, 2016
February 10, 2016: Ash Wednesday
As we began this season of Lent 2016, I was reminded in an important way of a key phrase associated with this day, and certainly its name: "Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return."
This saying makes us face the reality of our mortality, that our time in this life is limited and we will one day die. It sobers us up so that we realize the importance of making the most of the time we have to live lives that are righteous and pleasing to God.
So on this day, we are called to repentance and belief, turning away from sin to be faithful to the Gospel. We live our belief in God through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. And in these practices of faith, we experience the day of God's salvation now.
This saying makes us face the reality of our mortality, that our time in this life is limited and we will one day die. It sobers us up so that we realize the importance of making the most of the time we have to live lives that are righteous and pleasing to God.
So on this day, we are called to repentance and belief, turning away from sin to be faithful to the Gospel. We live our belief in God through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. And in these practices of faith, we experience the day of God's salvation now.
Monday, February 8, 2016
February 7, 2016: 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Throughout the Bible, when God calls people to serve Him, especially prophets, He comes to them in such a way that makes the called feel totally unworthy.
We see it in Isaiah, who lived in uncleanness. We see it in St. Paul, who persecuted the Church, and then became a zealous proclaimer of the Gospel. And we see it in St. Peter, who instantly recognized his unworthiness, after he and the disciples had an unsuccessful fishing run.
Yet it's not so much about who they are, what they've done, or what they have to offer, but about how God works powerfully in them, even in their weaknesses, to accomplish His purposes. And when they see the power of God who raises them up, they are made ready to serve.
So God calls us to proclaim His message, raising us up, freeing us even from sin, so that we might boldly proclaim the message He gives us to proclaim at this time.
We see it in Isaiah, who lived in uncleanness. We see it in St. Paul, who persecuted the Church, and then became a zealous proclaimer of the Gospel. And we see it in St. Peter, who instantly recognized his unworthiness, after he and the disciples had an unsuccessful fishing run.
Yet it's not so much about who they are, what they've done, or what they have to offer, but about how God works powerfully in them, even in their weaknesses, to accomplish His purposes. And when they see the power of God who raises them up, they are made ready to serve.
So God calls us to proclaim His message, raising us up, freeing us even from sin, so that we might boldly proclaim the message He gives us to proclaim at this time.
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
January 31, 2016: 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Throughout the ages, God has called people to be prophets, who proclaim His message of Truth and salvation.
A prophet often faces hardship because of that message, as happened to Jesus when His hometown folk couldn't bear to face the reality of who He was.
But God has specially acknowledged us before birth, and has chosen us for this role. So in spite of whatever obstacles we encounter, He is there to strengthen us for the task He gives us.
We are indeed strengthened to proclaim this message in the spirit of Love that God exhibits perfectly, a love that is above all, and is everlasting, because God is love, and shows us love in coming to save us. It is this Love that fortifies and strengthens us against all opposition to proclaim His prophetic message.
A prophet often faces hardship because of that message, as happened to Jesus when His hometown folk couldn't bear to face the reality of who He was.
But God has specially acknowledged us before birth, and has chosen us for this role. So in spite of whatever obstacles we encounter, He is there to strengthen us for the task He gives us.
We are indeed strengthened to proclaim this message in the spirit of Love that God exhibits perfectly, a love that is above all, and is everlasting, because God is love, and shows us love in coming to save us. It is this Love that fortifies and strengthens us against all opposition to proclaim His prophetic message.
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
January 24, 2016: 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Jesus ushers in a whole new era in the course of world events, as He declares the passage of Scripture from Isaiah is fulfilled in the hearing of those gathered at the synagogue.
He is the One anointed to bring liberty and freedom to those held captive and oppressed.
He has set us, the people of God, free to proclaim Him. We are no longer afraid or sorrowful, for God has spoken His Word to us in the Person of Christ, the Word that is Everlasting Life. And we are now His body, by virtue of being bound together in one spirit through baptism, and are sent forth in our own special way to do His work. We make Christ's presence known, and so that passage from Isaiah is fulfilled today in us.
He is the One anointed to bring liberty and freedom to those held captive and oppressed.
He has set us, the people of God, free to proclaim Him. We are no longer afraid or sorrowful, for God has spoken His Word to us in the Person of Christ, the Word that is Everlasting Life. And we are now His body, by virtue of being bound together in one spirit through baptism, and are sent forth in our own special way to do His work. We make Christ's presence known, and so that passage from Isaiah is fulfilled today in us.
Sunday, January 17, 2016
January 17, 2016: 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Although the Christmas Season has ended, its themes are very much present in today's liturgy.
God reveals Himself to be present among us through Jesus's working of great signs, the first of which is in today's Gospel reading: In the midst of a troubling predicament of a wedding party running out of wine, Jesus, in a rather subtle, but still miraculous, way, provides more wine.
This sign is not just about Jesus providing more wine for the party, but how God provides abundantly for us in meeting our need, sending to us the One who gives us salvation. It something that all the Earth acclaims, because God delights in us so greatly that He comes to save us and restore us to right relationship with Him. And He continues to open the way of salvation as we use the gifts He grants us to share the effects of salvation with others, living out what He has so graciously bestowed on us.
God reveals Himself to be present among us through Jesus's working of great signs, the first of which is in today's Gospel reading: In the midst of a troubling predicament of a wedding party running out of wine, Jesus, in a rather subtle, but still miraculous, way, provides more wine.
This sign is not just about Jesus providing more wine for the party, but how God provides abundantly for us in meeting our need, sending to us the One who gives us salvation. It something that all the Earth acclaims, because God delights in us so greatly that He comes to save us and restore us to right relationship with Him. And He continues to open the way of salvation as we use the gifts He grants us to share the effects of salvation with others, living out what He has so graciously bestowed on us.
Sunday, January 10, 2016
January 10, 2016: Feast of the Baptism of our Lord
On this last day of the Christmas Season, we celebrate God manifest in Christ at His baptism, when He was anointed with the Spirit and called God's Beloved Son.
We who are baptized fuse our identity with Christ's, becoming His beloved children, anointed with His Spirit to participate in His mission.
Indeed, a voice cries in the wilderness for us to prepare the way for the Lord, for the Lord is coming into our hearts, so that the Kingdom may be manifest through us as Christ shows His glory in us who are His.
So while our annual observance of the Christmas Season and its manifestation feasts has reached its conclusion, we now have a mission to live out, in Christ.
We who are baptized fuse our identity with Christ's, becoming His beloved children, anointed with His Spirit to participate in His mission.
Indeed, a voice cries in the wilderness for us to prepare the way for the Lord, for the Lord is coming into our hearts, so that the Kingdom may be manifest through us as Christ shows His glory in us who are His.
So while our annual observance of the Christmas Season and its manifestation feasts has reached its conclusion, we now have a mission to live out, in Christ.
Sunday, January 3, 2016
January 3, 2016: Epiphany of the Lord Sunday
On this second Manifestation Feast of Epiphany, we celebrate that God revealed Himself to the nations through the birth of His Son Jesus Christ. While Christ indeed came to be Savior in Israel, He also came to save the whole world, including the Gentiles, the great mystery now revealed in the Age of Christ. The nations come to Israel, which received Christ, drawn by the Light He shines through His Chosen People.
At Mass today, Father Hurlbert gave a wonderful homily, filled with great insights, and I share the following with you, closely matching his words, if not exact: Christmas is the celebration of Christ's birth, and Epiphany is the celebration that somebody noticed Christ's birth.
At Mass today, Father Hurlbert gave a wonderful homily, filled with great insights, and I share the following with you, closely matching his words, if not exact: Christmas is the celebration of Christ's birth, and Epiphany is the celebration that somebody noticed Christ's birth.
Saturday, January 2, 2016
January 1, 2016: Feast of Mary, Mother of God
On the 8th day after his birth, Jesus was given His name, which had been designated before His birth in time on Earth, that He would be the One Who would save us.
All of us who live by faith in Him have this Name above all names upon us, and so are made God's children. And just as Mary bore God's Son in her body into this world, so we bear the presence of God placed within us who have received His mercy in salvation.
All of us who live by faith in Him have this Name above all names upon us, and so are made God's children. And just as Mary bore God's Son in her body into this world, so we bear the presence of God placed within us who have received His mercy in salvation.
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