Three times Jesus exhorts the Apostles to not be afraid. This timeless wisdom requires us to cultivate a healthy perspective as we receive the strength of our faith in Christ.
We read in the Gospel of Luke that “Mary kept all these things in her heart.” May her example inspire us to reflect on our faith in her Son as we put it into daily practice.
The Lord’s Prayer sums up with brevity and power some key elements of our faith. May this gift from Christ be a daily, regular reflection that unites us to God and one another.
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.
“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.
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.
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:
1st Reading – Jeremiah praises the Lord even as he recognizes the evil of others.
Psalm – “Lord, in your great love answer me.”
2nd Reading – Sin and death came through Adam; grace and peace come through Jesus Christ.
Gospel – The Lord will acknowledge those who acknowledge Him, and he will deny those who deny him.
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!
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Note: This post was first published on June 19, 2017.
Fr. Andrew and Dan Tracy offer some key insights to help discern God’s calling for those who are searching for their vocation or those who mentor them along the way.
As our churches reopen from COVID-19, the gift of the Body and Blood of the Lord comes into clear focus. Christ feeds us with this precious Holy Communion, empowering us for service in the world.