Saint Paul reminds us in his letter to the Galatians that faith in Jesus is a gift available to all who accept it. He argues that faith, and not the rigidity of law, declares that the invitation to follow Christ be extended to the Gentiles: …Through you shall all nations be blessed. Consequently, those who […]

In the text immediately before the beginning of today’s gospel (Luke 6:38b), Jesus begins to teach his disciples the need for self-reflection, apparently because they were blind to their own behavior. He challenges them, and us, with a parable. …How can you say to your brother, “Brother, let me remove that splinter in your eye,” […]

The readings today suggest we focus on the covenant theme—God’s covenant with his people and humanity’s violations of it. In the selection from Ezekiel, we read that despite infidelity by his people, God keeps his promise of pardon and redemption. …I will re-establish my covenant with you, that you may know that I am the […]

Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Loyola The liturgy today commemorates Saint Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and author of the Spiritual Exercises. His life story meaningfully answers the same question asked of Jesus in the gospel reading. “Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds?” (Matthew 13:54). While […]

Jesus said to his apostles, “Behold I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves: so be shrewd as serpents and simple of doves. But beware of men…” (Matthew 10:16). Jesus, in the verses that follow, reassures his followers, “…do not worry about how you are to speak or what you will say. […]

Today’s reading from the first book of Kings relates, in part, the story of God’s message to the prophet Elijah. He is to fight for renewal of the chosen people’s covenant spirituality as revealed to them by Moses. Elijah had defeated the prophets of Baal and, fearing for his life, flees to the desert. In […]

Today’s gospel (John 21:15-19) describes Jesus’ third post-resurrection appearance. He appeared on a beach where he prepared and shared a breakfast of bread and fish with his disciples. Following the meal, Jesus asks Peter three times: Simon Peter, son of John, do you love me? Peter responds with three affirmations of affection, friendship, and brotherly […]

Today’s liturgy draws us into the mystery of the incarnate Savior, Son of God and Son of man. In the Last Supper discourse from John’s Gospel (John 14:1-6), Jesus states, …In my Father’s house, there are many dwelling places (verse 2). He tells his disciples: …I am the way, the truth, and the life. No […]

Good Friday, Passion of the Lord The Good Friday liturgy commemorates the passion and death of Jesus: Jesus, Son of Man and the Son of God; Jesus, incarnated by the Holy Spirit in the womb of Mary; Jesus who willingly carried his cross for our redemption; Jesus, who suffered and died in his humanity for […]

Lent challenges us to examine our relationship with God. Today’s readings describe evil, murderous actions, jealousy, and greed for personal gain. We hear the story of Joseph, sold into slavery by his jealous brothers (Genesis 37:3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a). The gospel finds Jesus relating a parable to the chief priests and elders about the landlord who […]