As human beings there is a perennial appeal for independence, self rule, determining ones own direction, goals, and priorities. The readings today encourage us not to glory in our own self reliance but a dependence on God. The Divine is creator, redeemer, and sanctifier. We are sinners in need of redemption and renewal. ~ Fr. Matt
The Pope has established this Sunday as raising up the scriptures. Scripture has been used to justify misogyny, racism, homophobia and violence. The list goes on and on. We need a hopeful and Cosmic interpretation of scripture. Jesus read between the lines to find and follow God’s mercy, inclusion, and compassionate justice. Relationship and transformation are the pillars of Jesus’ viewpoint. ~ Fr. Matt
Trappist Monk Thomas Merton said, “If you want to identify me, ask me not where I live, or what I like to eat, or how I comb my hair, but ask me what I am living for.” It forces us to identify our deepest values. ~ Fr. Matt
As we reflect on our own baptism on this Feast of the Lord we acknowledge the Sacrament is a beginning not an end, not an empty ritual. We begin the lifelong process of becoming one with Christ, in Christ, and for Christ. ~ Fr. Matt
The Feast of Three Kings evokes in us the desire to give our best. When we receive a gift we feel the need to do something in imitation of that generosity. Gift giving reveals new mysteries about ourselves and also activates hidden resources and talents. May we look at Christmas gifts as symbols of God’s evocative grace. ~ Fr. Matt
The Epiphany is not just about the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Disbelief, rejection, and persecution of the future ministry of Jesus are foreshadowed in this event. ~ Fr. Matt
The Epiphany is not just about the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Disbelief, rejection, and persecution of the future ministry of Jesus are foreshadowed in this event. ~ Fr. Matt
When we take the ordinary for granted, we may treat our family with contempt or forgetfulness or with a hard heart incapable of forgiveness. Through these celebrations may we perceive the mystery of godliness in our family life. ~ Fr. Matt
Advent gently but deeply stirs our minds and hearts. The Holy Spirit reaches us through our thoughts and intuitions. We need to bring forth our talents and dreams with excellence and energy. Thus shall we serve Christ in our world. ~ Fr. Matt
Today is Gaudete Sunday. We are half way through the Advent season. James encourages us to be patient. He states that four times in the second reading. God is patient with us, may we be patient with others and ourselves. ~ Fr. Matt