As Moses approached the burning bush he stood on holy ground and spoke with God. Our faith in Jesus Christ – who fulfills the law of Moses – allows us to draw near to the living God through our study, prayer and service.
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 15th Week of the Year
***************
The Lord reproaches the people of Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum because they did not repent when they witnessed the mighty acts of God. We, too, have been given much by God; will we turn to the Lord and live?
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 15th Week of the Year
***************
Study: Consider a profound moment when you felt God’s presence. What made this possible?
Pray: Are you feeling drawn toward a certain activity or task? Ask the Lord for guidance.
Serve: What types of service do you find most rewarding? How does helping others lead you to Christ?
Mass Readings – 16th Sunday of the Year
Here’s a quick overview of the readings this week:
One way to reflect on these verses is to see how the Lord meets us in the pattern of daily life. Consider:
We understand that our relationship with God touches multiple aspects of our lives, such as prayer, sacraments, relationships, work, and recreation. The invitation today encourages us to see with our hearts how the Lord is present to us in the current moment.
Does it mean that we serve with a joyful heart? That we swiftly respond to injustice? That we compassionately care for others? That we stop and “smell the roses” in moments of rest & renewal, beauty & blessing? In all these ways we are led back to the Lord, recognizing the gifts God gives us with a grateful heart.
How is God present in your life right now? May our response bring us closer to Christ and one another.
***************
***************
Note: This post was first published on July 11, 2016.
In this passage from the Gospel of Luke the Lord teaches his disciples that the term “neighbor” applies to all people, regardless of race, color, religion or political view. Using the example of the Good Samaritan, Jesus reveals how we are called to respond with mercy toward all.
Mass Readings – 15th Sunday of the Year
***************
Three times in the Gospel today Jesus tells his disciples to be not afraid. Three times! The fact is, fear is a part of the landscape of our lives, and with God’s help we can face it with faith as we follow the Lord.
Mass Readings – Saturday of the 14th Week of the Year
***************
Matthew’s Gospel reminds us that we are called by the Lord to use all our resources of mind, heart and soul. Each of these aspects of our humanity fosters our growth as disciples as we offer our lives for the glory of God.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 14th Week of the Year
***************
The story of Joseph in the Book of Genesis recounts the power of reconciliation within a family. Joseph chooses the higher path and overcomes hatred and discord as he returns compassion toward his brothers. His example inspires us to examine our own families and actively seek opportunities to foster peace.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 14th Week of the Year (St. Benedict)
***************
Catholic Inspiration Archives
The call of the twelve Apostles reveals the personal connection Jesus has with his disciples. Called by name (with their own unique strengths and weaknesses) the Lord will empower them to serve in his name. The Lord does the same for us!
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 14th Week of the Year
***************
Matthew’s Gospel shows how the Lord was moved with pity as he gazed on the people who were troubled and abandoned. The mercy of Christ consoles us to draw near to God with open hearts, even as it challenges us to look at one another (especially those who push our buttons!) with the love of the Lord.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 14th Week of the Year
***************
Photo Credit: Son of God, 2014.
Study: Recall a time when you were treated kindly…and you didn’t deserve it. How did this kindness affect you?
Pray: Is there someone in your life who is difficult to love? Ask the Lord for grace and strength.
Serve: Is there a “neighbor” in your life that you are feeling called to help? How can you reach out?
Mass Readings – 15th Sunday of the Year
The story of the Good Samaritan takes many of us back to our elementary school days of religious education. It’s worth taking a moment to examine the structure of the context within which the parable is located in chapter ten of Luke’s Gospel:
The first half of this passage pertains to the notion of eternal life and what we must do – loving God and one another. This is a recap of the two Great Commandments, and we all generally nod our heads in agreement at the lawyer’s answer.
The second half, however, pushes the question “Who is my neighbor?” as Jesus uses the parable to point out that all people – regardless of race, color, religion – are our neighbor. Remember: the Samaritan is not Jewish, yet fulfills the command of loving the neighbor!
The takeaway for us today happens on many levels:
While there are many ways to demonstrate our love for the Lord, a clear example occurs when we act in kind and merciful ways toward one another. May see clearly our neighbors and respond to their needs with the love of Jesus Christ.
***************
***************
Note: This post was first published on July 4, 2016.
Catholic Inspiration – Podcast Archives of Homilies & Talks
Three Great Things 