In the Book of Exodus, we read about the Lord striking down “every firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh sitting on his throne to the firstborn of the prisoner in the dungeon, as well as all the firstborn of the animals” (Ex. 12:29). Pharaoh then called Moses and told him to “leave my people at once, you and the Israelites!  Go and serve the Lord as you said” (Ex. 12:31).  As they left Egypt, God commanded Moses: “Consecrate to me every firstborn; whatever opens the […]

“After all the people had been baptized and Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove.  And a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased” (Lk 3:21-22).  On this, the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, we hear God the Father declare that Jesus, the son of Mary is, indeed, His Son as well.  And, He is well pleased with him.  Shortly after his baptism, […]

“See, darkness covers the earth, and thick clouds cover the peoples; but upon you the Lord shines, and over you appears his glory.” (Isaiah 60:2).  As we continue our celebration of the Christmas season with the celebration of the Epiphany of the Lord, we all need to hear these words of encouragement and assurance of God’s presence.  With the ongoing unrest worldwide and even in our own country, we all feel – in some way – to be covered in darkness with thick clouds covering us.  But, Jesus Christ, the […]