The multiplication of the fishes and loaves in the Gospel of Mark uses the same language that we use to describe what happens at Mass when the priest takes the bread and wine. May we be nourished every time we go to pray, so that we can nourish others with the gift of our lives.
Mass Readings – Tuesday after Epiphany
***************
Now that the holidays are passed many people kick off the New Year with a resolution. Here’s one to consider for the good the soul: making Mass a weekly habit, and inviting as many people as possible to join us.
***************
The intensity of the quest of the Magi and the treasures they offered the Christ child can teach us about the conviction and quality we bring to the Lord each and every day.
Mass Readings – Epiphany of the Lord
***************
The invitation of Jesus to “come and you will see” to two people will become for them a life changing experience as they spend time with the Lord. The same is true for us; may we actively create opportunities to drawn near to Christ, so that we might be filled with His grace.
Mass Readings – Christmas Weekday
***************
The First Letter of St. John offers a message of consolation and challenge. As children of God we are part of the Lord’s family, united in his love; yet this membership means that we take seriously the destructive role of sin as we strive to live in a manner that is worthy of Heaven.
Mass Readings – Christmas Weekday
***************
John the Baptist offers an example of discipleship in the Gospel today. As the crowds flock to his preaching and baptism of repentance, John consistently redirects their attention toward Jesus. May we do the same in our lives today.
Mass Readings – Christmas Weekday
***************
As we honor the Blessed Virgin Mary as the Mother of God, we acknowledge that she is also our Mother. Given to us by Christ, we claim this relationship every time we affirm our faith in her Son.
Mass Readings – Mary, the Mother of God
***************
Note: I took this picture of the icon of Mary and Jesus in the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem during my pilgrimage to the Holy Land last month.
As we bring the year 2019 to a close, perhaps it makes sense to take a brief walk back through the last twelve months and reflect on how our lives have changed. Where did we experience moments of growth? Where did we experience God’s grace? May we look back and count our blessings as we prepare for a New Year.
Happy New Year!
***************
The blessings and burdens of the Holy Family inspire us to face our joys and sorrows with the grace of Jesus Christ.
Mass Readings – The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
***************
There is a grim aspect to the Gospel reading today. Innocent baby boys, slaughtered to satisfy Herod’s need to protect his ego, recall for us the reality that cruelty, hatred, evil and sin are part of our human condition. May this terrifying event inspire us to respect all life as a precious and sacred gift from God.
Mass Readings – The Holy Innocents
***************
Catholic Inspiration – Podcast Archives of Homilies & Talks
Three Great Things 