As Christians everywhere this day flock to churches stripped of all flowers to venerate the wood of the cross, we fast and pray, mindful of the depth of God’s love for us, even to the death of his Son on a cross. There are two questions that I would like to offer for our reflection. First, what did we do to deserve such a loving God who gives the life of his only Son for our salvation? And second, what can we offer him in return for this wondrous sacrifice […]
“I hope we have a nice vacation!” Please make up your bed before you go to school.” “I love you.” We all know how important words are. Among other things, they can express our hopes, give direction and relay our feelings. But they don’t have any power by themselves. Hoping for a nice vacation won’t guarantee it, nor will our directions to our child to make their bed. But, when God speaks, his very word is effective. “Let there be light,” he commands, and there was light. “Stretch out your […]
For most of his public life, it seems that Jesus tried to hide his true identity. While others acclaimed him as the Messiah or the Son of God, he referred to himself as the Son of Man; we heard him use that title to describe himself twice in today’s gospel. When others tried to worship him or spread the news of his miracles, he told them to keep silent. He didn’t want their praise or publicity. Not yet. His time had not yet come and they did not understand his […]
“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord. Peace in heaven and glory in the highest! (Lk 19:38). On Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion, we are called to join with our Lord, Jesus Christ, as he makes a triumphant entry into Jerusalem, and then suffers derision and mockery, scourging and finally crucifixion because he comes to offer a new way of life and claims to be who he truly is – the Son of God. This week is, indeed, what we Christians call it: Holy […]
Last week, we heard the very well-known parable of the prodigal son where we heard, once again, of God’s abundant mercy and forgiveness. Today, we hear the equally well-known account of Jesus’ encounter with the scribes and Pharisees and a woman caught in the act of adultery. Once again, we hear of God’s mercy. This unnamed woman has become famous because Jesus saved her from a crowd that was out to get him. This woman was just like the bait on a fisherman’s hook; Jesus was the fish they were […]
This is one great parable, isn’t it!?! Especially in this Lenten season, we can all relate to the prodigal son, wasteful and extravagant in our use of all that God has given us to fulfill our own desires rather than for the building up of God’s kingdom. But, sinful though we are, if we convert our lives, God, in his love and care for us – will always demonstrate his love, always forgive us and welcome us back
We know this parable under the title of the prodigal son because he […]
Rejoice, Jerusalem, and all who love her.
Be joyful, all who were in mourning;
Exult and be satisfied at her consoling breast. (Is 66:10:11)
Today, the Fourth Sunday of Lent, is also known as Laetare Sunday. It gets this name from the first word of the Entrance Antiphon used at Mass when there is no music; you will see it quoted above. In Latin, the antiphon begins with the word “Laetare,” which, as you see above, translates into “Rejoice.” As we quickly approach the end of Lent – next week is the Fifth […]