The Magi followed the light of the star to encounter the Light of the World as they responded with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. As we are drawn to the Light of Christ and encounter His grace, may we shine with His light for all to see!
Mass Readings – Epiphany of the Lord
The proclamation of praise from the psalm today reminds us to look to nature when we require a reminder of the awesome power of the Almighty.
Mass Readings – Memorial of Saints Basil & Gregory
“And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.” Mary inspires us to follow her example as we reflect on all that has happened in the last year and study these insights in the light of our faith in Christ as we embark on the New Year. Holy Mary, Mother of God…pray for us!
Mass Readings – Mary, Mother of God
The Prologue of the Gospel of John speaks of Christ as God’s Word and Light. May we dwell upon the Word of God in the coming year as we are guided by the Lord’s Light. Happy New Year!
Mass Readings – The Seventh Day in the Octave of Christmas
The Gospel reveals that growth and knowledge often take time to develop. This process of maturity reminds us that our own spiritual life requires a steady discipline of commitment over the entire course of our lives.
Mass Readings – The Sixth Day in the Octave of Christmas
The prophecy of Simeon reveals the Light of Christ in the world, which uncovers human hearts and leads to their rise and fall. The Lord continues to shine in our lives today, inviting us to embrace this light and live accordingly.
Mass Readings – The 5th Day in the Octave of Christmas
In the midst of the Christmas season we see the harsh consequences of human sin. The massacre of the innocent children demands that we carry out the teaching of Christ as we strive to protect those who are most vulnerable.
Mass Readings – Feast of the Holy Innocents
Study: Recall a time when you experienced a moment of clarity and understanding – when it all came together.
Pray: Ask the Lord for direction and insight regarding any particular decisions or needs.
Serve: How can you help someone clarify their focus and gain direction?
Mass Readings – The Epiphany of the Lord
I was sitting in a Calculus class, and my blood was beginning to boil. For over an hour I had been trying to understand a concept without any success. The professor had patiently explained it twice (using two different examples), two friends tried (telling me how EASY it was – like that helped…), and I had read the “helpful hints” section of the textbook (which I still do not understand to this day).
I looked down on the page of equations, a seemingly meaningless series of numbers, letters, and signs, and put my head in my hands and took a deep breath. I then turned to look out the window and daydreamed for a couple of minutes. (I think the professor was just glad I was quiet…!) Then I looked back at the textbook.
It made sense.
I could not believe it. I finally understood in a span of three heartbeats what three different people had been trying to tell me for over an hour. The light bulb went on, and I said “OH!!!” just a little louder then I realized.
The professor, a gentle man with a deep faith, came over to me with a big smile. He said, “Do you get it?” When I told him how it came together he said, “Good for you, Andrew! You just had an epiphany.”
There are times in life when an event or experience comes upon us in a rush. We are caught up in the moment, held in awe by our new awareness. We discover a new insight, understanding, or perspective which shapes and changes how we see the world.
In the Scriptures today we follow the journey of the wise men, guided by a star to the baby Jesus. As the star rose they pursued its course, searching for understanding and wisdom. When they found the child their response reveals the magnitude of their convictions. They knelt in homage, giving the very best gifts they had to offer.
As we journey on in our lives God places before us opportunities and events where the Lord is especially present. In these great and precious moments our eyes are opened – if only briefly – to the grace and blessings around us. We can ask the Lord for this gift of understanding – a gift which recognizes and responds to God’s presence in our midst.
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Archive of Fr. Andrew’s Podcasts
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The blog was originally published on January 1, 2015.
The Holy Family reveals how God is present within our families at all times in life – good and bad – and supports us with grace and strength. Holy Family, pray for us!
Mass Readings – The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
The martyrdom of St. Stephen is a sober reminder that in light of the joy of the Lord’s birth we also confront the daily reality of death in our world. May St. Stephen inspire us to never take for granted an opportunity to live each day with faith, hope and love.
Mass Readings – Feast of St. Stephen, first martyr
Catholic Inspiration – Podcast Archives of Homilies & Talks
Three Great Things 