The question put to Jesus in today’s Gospel was not a question he was expected to answer. In the minds of the Pharisees and Herodians, there was no correct answer. The Pharisees were opposed to the tax while the Herodians favored it. In their narrow political view of the world,Continue Reading
One son refused to do his father’s bidding, but later repented and did as requested. The other son agreed immediately but did not do as he was asked. Both sons have lessons to teach. God values a late conversion. He demonstrated this in the justice and mercy He showed toContinue Reading
It is said that frustration results when reality does not meet our expectations. Perhaps the real secret to internal peace is to adjust our expectations. Nothing disturbs our inner peace more than the thirst for recognition and esteem in the eyes of the world. Are we always comparing ourselves toContinue Reading
We are not here to make a broken world run smoothly; we are here to be signs of contention. We are called to conform ourselves not to this world, but to Christ. By doing this we transform ourselves into both a sermon and a sacrifice to the world. Suffering isContinue Reading
Although the terms are not used much these days the Church has been traditionally divided into three parts. The Church Triumphant refers to the souls in Heaven; they have triumphed over sin and wickedness and enjoy the beatific vision that is God. They have won the fight. The Church SufferingContinue Reading
The Phoenix, from The Book of Beasts: The phoenix is a bird of Arabia and is unique in all the world. It lives for more than 500 years, acquiring knowledge of all things. When it feels its age coming upon it, the phoenix builds a nest for itself of frankincenseContinue Reading
Today’s Gospel is a beautiful parable about staying true to God while surrounded by a world that seems to give Him little thought. The storm tossed boat is an image of life, the life of the Church on the storms of history and the life of every Christian as heContinue Reading
As we mature, we begin to look for meaning in our lives. We spend our youth learning about the world and about ourselves. We discover our interests, talents and abilities, and sharpen them to a high degree. And then, we grow restless. We look for our purpose. We questionContinue Reading
During this time of Easter, between the Resurrection and Pentecost, the readings at mass follow along as Jesus guides the Church in its first steps. As the day draws near for Jesus to ascend to the Father, He begins to prepare His followers for a time when He will noContinue Reading
“I am the Good Shepherd, I pasture my sheep and I lay down my life for them, alleluia.” -Liturgy of the Hours Continue Reading