Fasting, prayer and almsgiving are non-negotiable in the life of a Christian. The Lord gives us some key insights into these powerful spiritual practices, and by using them we refine our hearts and purify our souls.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 11th Week of the Year
***************
“Love your enemies” is one of the toughest teachings of Jesus. Yet these words continue to show us a path forward in the face of hatred, violence and persecution…revealing that there is something that can heal our hearts and renew our lives: God’s love.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 11th Week of the Year
***************
The actions of Jezebel and Ahab in the Book of Kings reveal the stark reality of sin – in our hearts, families and communities. Our response? The teaching and command of Christ to unite and heal as we bring a radical compassion to those around us.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 11th Week of the Year
***************
Study: Consider a time when you had to confront evil. How did your faith in Christ give you strength?
Pray: Is there a difficult situation in your life right now? Ask the Lord for wisdom and guidance.
Serve: Do you know someone who is struggling right now? How can you offer support?
Mass Readings – 12th Sunday of the Year
The readings this Sunday all come with an edge to them, signifying that there’s a lot at stake in a life of faith. Take a look:
These readings address the reality of sin and evil in our world. We know this reality through our experience, and whether through our own actions or the actions of others we recognize that the human heart has the capacity for sin.
Yet we also recognize that God’s grace is greater than the darkness. This is why Christ came into the world! Through the Lord’s cross and resurrection we have hope to call upon Heaven for the strength, courage and wisdom we need to face the challenges of life.
Have we sinned? Then we seek reconciliation and forgiveness. Have we been wounded by wickedness and evil? Then we call upon the Lord’s grace.
The triumph of Jesus Christ inspires us to follow the example of Jeremiah and Paul – acknowledging the Lord in this world so that we can be with Him in the next!
***************
***************
Note: This post was first published on June 19, 2017.
The Lord’s counsel about making oaths reminds us of the crucial relationship between our words and actions.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 10th Week of the Year
***************
As Elijah waits for the Lord he encounters many powerful and turbulent forces, but he recognizes God’s presence in a whispering sound. May his experience remind us to cultivate a listening heart as we seek the Lord in our lives.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 10th Week of the Year
***************
St. Barnabas – a good and holy man set apart to serve the Lord – inspires us to foster the faith that we have received and share it with others in the unique opportunities that we have each day.
***************
The showdown between Elijah and the 450 prophets of Baal illustrates how we rely on the Lord for the strength we need, even against impossible odds.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 10th Week of the Year
*************
The Lord exhorts us to be salt and light in the world, so that through the offering of our lives we share the blessings of God with those around us.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 10th Week of the Year
************
The Psalm response joyfully proclaims a fundamental Christian truth: God is the source of our strength!
Mass Readings – Monday of the 10th Week of the Year
***************
Catholic Inspiration – Podcast Archives of Homilies & Talks
Three Great Things 