Creature comforts need to be shared. They should not divide the rich from the poor. Sharing blessings eliminate the use of them as status symbols. If we do not see the truth in the common and ordinary circumstances of life, we will fail to acknowledge it in the extraordinary and sensational moments we experience. ~ Fr. Matt
The prophet Amos says that dishonest dealings during the week make weekend worship a lie. If politicians received as much prayerful support as financial backing who knows what the impact might be Timothy concludes. Luke says that naivete regarding worldly affairs is a detriment to true discipleship. ~ Fr. Matt
In lieu of our annual rummage sale, we again take up the slogan, “one man’s junk is another man’s treasure.” In this Gospel Jesus reminds us that we are always a treasure in the heavenly Father’s eye. God is the ultimate recycler, transforming “the junkiness” of sin into redemptive glory. ~ Fr. Matt
The French artist Renoir painted until the day of his death. He was crippled with arthritis to the point he could not hold the brush in his fingers. His wife tied the brush to his hand for him to continue. In response to the question why he continued to paint despite his disability he responded, “The beauty remains, the pain passes.” A great statement for all of us to live life for its beauty despite the hardships. ~ Fr. Matt
Humility is not a personal introspection of ourselves. Authentic humility is the cause and result of social awareness and altruism. Humility is opening our hearts, our minds, our hands to the poor, the needy, and the marginalized of society. ~ Fr. Matt
Jesus offers four aspects of the reign of God. The door is narrow and the time is short. The reign of God has universal parameters. Everlasting life will have a reversal of fortunes in comparison to our earthly life. Our words and works, our thoughts and decisions, our choices and attitudes will have eternal consequences. Ominous eh? ~ Fr. Matt
Fire and division are what confronted Jesus. We as a church community have to examine our comfort level and the challenge of our faith to the world. If no one is offended by the quality of our commitment to Christ we have to ask how authentic is our belief in Him. We cannot become inoffensive models of Christianity. May we take up the challenge of reigniting the fire that Jesus brought to the earth. ~ Fr. Matt
What would you do if this was your last day on earth? What would you not do? How would you prepare to meet God? Where would you go? With whom would you spend your last hours on earth with? Creepy questions, eh? Jesus tells us not to live in fear. We are to set our hearts on the treasure of God. Faith keeps us motivated to live our lives in a positive fashion each day. ~ Fr. Matt
Today’s scriptures emphasize our needs and wants. Alexander the Great gave instructions that at his burial his hands would not be tied and hidden as was the custom. He wanted them hanging outside the bier as a reminder that the conqueror of the world took nothing with him. People who “lose everything” in a natural disaster vow to live their lives more wisely and realize their genuine needs. ~ Fr. Matt
The Readings are rich with material to consider, almost too much to consume. When confronted by the Divine One, Abraham becomes emboldened seeking mercy on all through the faithfulness of a few. The Gospel stories remind us that prayer to God is essential. Persistent shamelessness in requests will get results. Asking, Seeking, and Knocking are essential to a fulfilling human life. ~ Fr. Matt