Tag Archives: Christian

Daily Mass: To drink from the cup of Christ. Catholic Inspiration

Mass Readings – The Feast of St. James, Apostle

Jesus addresses a teachable moment when he explains that glory in Heaven comes from offering one’s life in charity and service.  James and John will drink from the cup of of Christ, reminding us that every time we offer our lives for others we follow the example of Christ.

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Archive of Fr. Andrew’s Podcasts


17th Sunday of the Year: The pearl of great price

Study:  Have you ever gotten something you wished for?  In hindsight, was it what you really wanted or needed?

Pray:  What graces or virtues do you need in your life right now?  Ask the Lord with boldness and confidence!

Serve:  How is the Lord leading you to offer your life today?  How can you fulfill God’s command to serve others?

Mass Readings – 17th Sunday of the Year

Here’s a quick review:

  • 1st Reading – Solomon asks God for wisdom and understanding
  • Psalm – “Lord, I love your commands.”
  • 2nd Reading – All things, good and bad, work for good for those who love God
  • Gospel – When you find the pearl of great price, you sell everything you have to acquire it

If the Lord would grant you one request, what would you ask for?  We can learn a lot about ourselves by what we seek, and sometimes we discover when we get it that it might not have truly been the best thing.  Yet, it is the desire in our hearts, however, that tells us if we are on the right track.

Solomon asked to be wise and understanding…a wonderful response!

Jesus uses the parable of the pearl to remind us that there are some things in life so precious that other wishes and requests pale in comparison.  With this in mind, here are a couple of thoughts to consider:

  • What is it you often wish for?
  • Are there any blessings in your life that you might be taking for granted?
  • Do you have your priorities organized?  Are the most important things getting your time, effort and attention?

God will take the sum of our lives – good and bad – and bless it with grace.  As we seek the Lord today, may we bring our hearts and offer ourselves….so that our response will draw us closer to Jesus Christ and one another.

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Archive of Fr. Andrew’s Podcasts


16th Sunday of the Year: Pulling Weeds. Catholic Inspiration

Mass Readings – 16th Sunday of the Year

Every gardener encounters weeds, and the Lord uses this image in the Gospel of Matthew to remind us that in the garden of our hearts we have a daily opportunity to pull out what does not belong.

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Archive of Fr. Andrew’s Podcasts

Note: I couldn’t stop with just one picture!  These are taken from my dad’s garden in Cumberland, WI.


Daily Mass: St. Mary Magdalene

Mass Readings – The Feast of St. Mary Magdalene

The Gospel of John recounts how Mary Magdalene was the first to meet the Risen Lord.  Her conversion and witness inspire us: no matter what our past has been, God’s grace can touch our hearts and change our lives!

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Archive of Fr. Andrew’s Podcasts

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Photo credit: The Passion of the Christ, 2004.


Daily Mass: God desires mercy. Catholic Inspiration

Mass Readings – Friday of the 15th Week of the Year

Speaking with the pharisees, Jesus offers an insight into God’s compassion and mercy when he says, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.”  Today we have the opportunity to offer to Christ the gift of mercy as we lovingly respond to the weaknesses of those around us, as we claim the Lord’s mercy for ourselves.

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Archive of Fr. Andrew’s Podcasts


Daily Mass: Standing in the presence of God. Catholic Inspiration

Mass Readings – Thursday of the 15th Week of the Year

Moses stands before God and receives his commission to go to Egypt.  It will be hard, but the Lord will walk with him.  As we face our challenges in life, God will give us what we need as well.

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Archive of Fr. Andrew’s Podcasts


Daily Mass: Standing on holy ground. Catholic Inspiration

Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 15th Week of the Year

Moses, standing on holy ground in the sight of the burning bush, is sent by God on a mission to free the people from their bondage in Egypt.  As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to continue God’s saving work in the world today.

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Archive of Fr. Andrew’s Podcasts


Daily Mass: Consequences and Judgement. Catholic Inspiration

Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 15th Week of the Year

Jesus reminds us in the Gospel of Matthew that there are consequences for our actions that will take place in the final judgment.  With this awareness in mind, we have the opportunity today to repent of our sins and turn to the Lord for his mercy and forgiveness.

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Archive of Fr. Andrew’s Podcasts


Monday Conversation: Dealing with Divorce. Catholic Inspiration

Divorce touches our lives in many ways and on many levels.  Fr. Andrew offers some pastoral food for thought regarding how we offer healing to those facing divorce and support for couples working on their marriage.  (40 Minutes)

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Archive of Fr. Andrew’s Podcasts


15th Sunday of the Year: What’s growing in your heart? Catholic Inspiration

Mass Readings – 15th Sunday of the Year

What kind of crop is growing in your heart?  Do you like what you see?  Does something need to be cultivated or planted?  Every day we have a new opportunity to take the gift of our lives and raise a crop worthy of the Lord.

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Archive of Fr. Andrew’s Podcasts