Today we celebrate the first day of Ordinary Time. There is certainly nothing ordinary about these thirty-four weeks that reveal in word the fullness of Christ’s life and mission. Saint John Eudes once wrote: It is he himself (Christ) who is to be spirit, heart, love, life, everything for you. In the life of a […]

The scriptures from today’s liturgy urge us to embrace the message of Advent, a time of holy longing characterized by a daily quest for the coming of Christ into our hearts. The Israelites had grown “lukewarm” as they waited for the promised Messiah and were reminded to wait patiently and “hearken” to the commandments.… Thus, […]

Today’s scripture readings teach us how life lived now, in the present moment, is preparing us for everlasting life in the kingdom of heaven. Saint John’s letter (2 John: 5-11) exhorts a fledgling Christian community to adhere to the teachings of Christ …let us love one another. For this is love, that we walk according […]

The first reading from today’s Liturgy is the opening address from Paul’s letter to the Philippians, the first European converts to Christianity. Deep affection and gratitude for the graces conveyed on each other was a shared gift. It is expressed with faith as a clear and true understanding of the unique role Jesus plays in […]

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 […]