Scripture

I Thought You Should Know | At Christmas the unearned gift of love lies in a manger

There is a timeless beauty in the concept of Santa Claus bringing gifts to children. It opens the children's hearts to the experience of receiving free gifts from someone whom they do not know, but who seems to know them! This speaks to the child's hunger, and the adults' hunger, to receive unearned love.

Like Mary, we are called to trust God, His love

All who long for something greater than themselves, rejoice in today's readings. When King David wants to build a more fitting dwelling place for the ark of God, God in turn tells David that He, Himself, will build a house, a dynasty for David, and will raise up from David's loins an heir whose kingdom will last forever!

David had experienced many, many fierce battles in his lifetime, and the news that God would raise up an heir who would establish an everlasting kingdom was music to David's ears. David's victories never brought lasting peace.

I Thought You Should Know | Recognize Christ's humility, love dwelling in our midst

Feast of Christ the King - 2011

Ezekiel 34:11-12,15-17

1Corinthians 15:20-26,28

Matthew 25: 31-46

I Thought You Should Know | Our identity: We are sinners in constant need of redemption

"Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted."

Once, in the midst of a 30-day retreat, I shared with my retreat master that in trying to meet all the needs of my parishioners, I was totally exhausted. The retreat master responded, "Bob, the Messiah has come, died on the cross and rose from the dead and you're not it!" I said, "Wow, that feels so good! Thank you for reminding me!"

When that truth broke into my consciousness, I was so relieved not to have to play the role of the Messiah!

Christ is inviting us to change our minds and repent

Today's three readings remind me of a good sandwich, consisting of two slices of quality bread on the outside, with energy-packed food in between.

God dwells in sinners with the hope He will make them saints

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Zechariah 9:9-10

Romans 8:9,11-13

Matthew 11:25-30 

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