Tuesday, July 22, 2025

 

Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene

(Song of Songs 3:1-4b; John 20:1-2.11-18)

The Song of Songs was originally a Hebrew love poem.  It remains part of Scripture as an allegory expressing God’s love for Israel or, -- for Christians -- Christ’s love for the Church.  Today’s passage describes the beloved’s active pursuit of her lover faintly like Hosea in search of his wife or the Lord’s parable of the shepherd risking life and flock to seek the lost sheep,

Of course, the passage is read now to indicate Mary Magdalene’s desire to see the body of her dear Lord. Even though Jesus is supposedly dead, Mary’s love for him is “stronger than death.” as a famous phrase in the Song of Songs says.   Her faithful love is rewarded when she sees Jesus, not dead and even more than physically alive.

He will make himself present to us as well when we actively pursue him. We find him in the sacraments and in prayer.  Unlike the literal gospel, he will allow us to cling to him in worship so that we too may become more than physically alive.

Monday, July 21, 2025

 

Monday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Exodus 14:5-8; Matthew 14:38-42)

Matthew’s gospel is neatly arranged into five thematic sections with a long introduction and a long end.  The thematic sections contain a narrative and a teaching component.  The lectionary has entered the third section known for its parabolic discourse ending.  The narrative shows Jesus having difficulty delivering his message or, better, shows the people raising objections to Jesus. 

Jesus had been highly successful in his preaching the Kingdom of God.  He also worked many miracles which is part of the “proclamation of the Kingdom.”  Yet the people in today’s passage, whether for fascination or for incredulity, demand a miracle to prove himself God’s emissary.  Characteristic of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, Jesus seldom performs mighty deeds without the faith of the people.  so now he reproaches the people for their disbelief.

We must take care not to join the crowd withholding belief until God fulfills our request for a miracle.  God has already done wonderful things for us.  He has given us life and community.  He has also continuously fulfilled our pleas for help.  Rather than doubt his activity in our lives, we should eagerly express to him our faith and love.

Sunday, July 20, 2025

 

16th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
(Genesis 18:1-10; Colossians 1:24-28; Luke 10:38-42)

Today’s Gospel is both well-known and cherished. Preachers often use it to show that Jesus had female friends—even female disciples. It is also seen as a model of two forms of religious life: active, like the Daughters of Charity, and contemplative, like the Carmelites. However, today we’ll try to approach it from a different perspective.

To do this, we need to go back to last Sunday’s Gospel—the parable of the Good Samaritan. The final words of that reading were Jesus’ command to the scholar of the Law: “Go and do likewise.” He was telling him to assist those in need, regardless of their race or religion.  Today’s passage follows directly after those words and offers advice that at first glance seems contradictory. Jesus tells Martha, who is busy with the household tasks of hosting a guest, that such tasks are not the priority at that moment. Referring to her sister Mary, seated at his feet like a disciple, Jesus says she has “chosen the better part.”
Why then does Jesus seem to reproach Martha for her desire to give hospitality, right after telling the scholar to serve his neighbor? Has he changed his teaching? Is listening to the Lord now the only thing that matters?

To answer these questions, we can reflect on a famous prayer by Saint Augustine:
“Lord, may your grace inspire, sustain, and accompany our actions, so that all our work may begin in you, as its source, and end in you, as its goal.”  In this prayer, the speaker asks the Father to send the Holy Spirit so that their motives may be pure and their actions bring glory to God.

Without the grace of the Holy Spirit, our works—as the book of Ecclesiastes says—are vanity. Our nature, wounded by sin, cannot produce true goodness on its own. Our intention—what Augustine calls the “source”—is often centered on the self, on selfishness. And our actions—the “goal”—are frequently tainted by personal defects. I do not doubt, for example, that most students study not to master the subject or grow in wisdom, but to get good grades so they can impress their parents and peers.  We have become like trees infected with blight, unable to bear good fruit. And the Lord confirms this truth in the Sermon on the Mount: “…every bad tree bears bad fruit” (Mt 7:17).

By staying close to the Lord, listening to his guidance, and feeling his love, Mary is preparing herself to act in a new way. She will not lean toward selfishness while in the company of Jesus, who knows her heart. Her actions will be wholesome and fruitful because she has chosen “the better part.” Martha, most likely, understands the lesson too. She is generous of heart and, more importantly, has the good sense to go to Jesus with her problem.

What about us? Do we see ourselves more like Mary—contemplative and quiet—or like Martha—active and expressive? It doesn’t really matter. Both women have been proclaimed saints.  What matters is that, like Mary, we listen to and follow the Lord’s teachings. And like Martha, we ask for his help and bring to completion our efforts with care.

 

 

Friday, July 18, 2025

 

Friday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Exodus 11:10-12:14; Matthew 12:1-8)

A simple but majestic painting by the Spanish master Zurbarán shows a lamb being prepared for slaughter.  The lamb’s feet are bound, and its facial expression is of passivity.  The painting is entitled “Lamb of God” who, of course, is Jesus Christ.  The idea for the painting finds its origin in today’s first reading.

The reading from Exodus tells of God’s ordering Hebrew families to prepare a lamb for sacrifice.  The lamb represents the people’s prayer for protection as they are being liberated from Pharoah’s slavery.  In the gospels Jesus is referred to as the “Lamb of God” whose death on the cross frees the world of its sins.

Christians exult in the Blood of the Lamb of God.  By our faith and Baptism we are justified.  Living lovingly in accord with Christ’s teachings we will inherit eternal life.

Thursday, July 17, 2025

 

Thursday, July 17, 2025

(Exodus 3:13-20; Matthew 11:28-30)

Both readings today are well known because they reveal much about God.  In the passage from Exodus God reveals his name to Moses. “I am who am” is the way the tetragram is translated in Catholic versions of the Bible.  St. Thomas Aquinas saw in this term a profound insight into God.  Thomas said that it shows how God is not just a being, but the source of all being.  More basic than molecules or atoms, nothing could exist without God.

Today’s gospel follows on the heels of yesterday’s where Jesus indicated that he is the Son of God.  Here He shows himself to be a compassionate God always ready to assist humans in their needs.  He asks that those who want his help to take on his “yoke,” that is, his way of living. Those who do, he assures, will not be disappointed.

Our challenge is to transcend the wish that God reveal Himself more quickly and clearly so that we might more readily place our trust in Him.  We have the testimony of the saints throughout the ages as well as the Scriptures to support our confidence in Him.  We also know that we will also become better people following Jesus’ ways.

Wednesday, July 16, 2025

 Wednesday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Exodus 3:1-6.9-12; Matthew 11:25-27)

God has been described as both terrifying and fascinating.  This is why the burning bush in today’s first reading makes such an excellent symbol.   Moses is attracted to the raging fire that doesn’t consume its fuel.  Yet he must heed the voice from within the bush.  No one should doubt that Moses takes off his sandals at the Lord’s command.

But Moses hesitates to accept God’s command to lead the Hebrews out of Egypt.  He likely figures that If he fails, he will have to pay heavily.  Moses does not know God yet.  He was raised in Pharaoh's house.  Moreover, even the Hebrew people have largely forgotten the Lord of their ancestors.  They do not realize yet that God’s essential quality is merciful love which shows both patience and counsel so that people can learn His ways.

But we should not equate merciful love with blind indulgence.  God knows our hearts.  He will forgive our failings when we sincerely repent.  But he will not be fooled into forgiving when we take Him for granted or when we refuse to forgive others.

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

 

Memorial of Saint Bonaventure, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

(Exodus 2:1-15a; Matthew 11:20-24)

St. Bonaventure was one of the great saints of the Middle Ages.  His writings are still read and valued.  He also was an excellent administrator.  In the middle of his career at the University of Paris, he was elected General Minister of the Franciscan Order.  Bonaventure structured the large group with effective legislation and a coherent spirituality based on St. Francis’ legacy.

Today’s first reading presents another man who will become an effective leader and theologian.  It portrays Moses as a diamond in the rough.  Moses feels a righteous anger when the Egyptian strikes the Hebrew worker.   But his quick resort to violence is imprudent.  God will instruct him over years in exile so that he may lead God’s chosen people to freedom.

Neither Moses nor St. Bonaventure could have performed as well as they did without
God’s assistance.  We also need to rely on the Lord by praying often and carefully discerning His will.

Monday, July 14, 2025

 

Memorial of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, virgin

(Exodus 1:8-14.22; Matthew 10:34-11:1)

Today North Americans are celebrating Kateri Tekakwitha, its first Native American saint.  Her story exemplifies Jesus’ saying in today’s gospel that he has come to make “one's enemies (will be) those of his household”. 

Kateri was an orphan staying with her uncle when she met Jesuit missionaries.  She began practicing their teachings, but her uncle and others in her tribe opposed her being baptized.  Nevertheless, she persisted in following Catholic customs which caused conflicts in her tribe’s longhouse.  Kateri was baptized at nineteen years old in 1676.  She lived five more years as a dedicated Christian virgin.

No one should regard Jesus as a hostile revolutionary for saying that he came “to bring not peace but the sword.” His teachings cause unrest because they conflict with our selfish desires.  His mission has always been to bring the peace of God’s Kingdom to a world too much consumed by desire and hatred.

Sunday, July 13, 2025

 

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

(Deuteronomy 30:10-14; Colossians 1:15-20; Luke 10:25-37)

The well-known parable of the Good Samaritan reminds us of other stories about loving one's neighbor. One such story was written by the great Russian author Leo Tolstoy. Entitled "Two Old Men," the action begins in Russia at an unspecified time.

Ephraim and Elisha are two elderly friends. Ephraim is well respected in his hometown for his upright life. He has a large family and plenty of money, although he continually worries that it isn't enough. Elisha is neither rich nor poor. He drinks vodka occasionally and takes snuff, but he is known as a friendly man who likes to sing. One day, the two agree to undertake the long pilgrimage to the Holy Land, to which they had committed themselves in their youth.

After walking for several weeks, Elisha struggles to keep up with Ephraim. When he becomes thirsty, Elisha tells his companion to keep going while he asks for water at a peasant's house. He promises to catch up with Ephraim later. At the house, Elisha finds poverty such as he has never seen in their lives. Each member of a family of five is on the verge of starvation. Elisha shares the provisions he carries in his backpack with the family. He then goes to the nearby village to buy more. In fact, he stays with the family for several weeks, providing for their needs until he no longer has enough money for the boat fare from Constantinople to Jaffa. So he decides to abandon the project and return to his own land.

Ephraim reaches the Holy Land and visits all the important biblical sites. While attending the sacred liturgy at the Holy Sepulcher, he sees something he knows is impossible. From the back of the sanctuary where he stands because of the crowd, Ephraim sees his friend Elisha at the front near the altar. He looks for him after the Eucharist, but with so many men leaving the sanctuary at once, he can't find him. When Ephraim returns to his homeland, he goes to visit his friend. He tells Elisha that his feet reached the Holy Land, but he wasn't certain if his soul arrived as well.

Both stories—Jesus's parable and Tolstoy's short story—teach us several lessons. One is the relative importance of being faithful to our responsibilities. The priest and the Levite in Jesus' parable overlook the half-dead man because touching a corpse would have rendered them unclean and prohibited them from performing their priestly duties. Ephraim, also a diligent man, could have returned to investigate what happened to his companion, but he decided to go ahead with his project. In itself, it is good to be faithful to our responsibilities. However, sometimes God wants us to go beyond fulfilling ordinary duties to make sacrifices for the good of those in need.

Certainly, out of justice, the Samaritan has to do something to save the man's life. Binding his wounds and taking him to a shelter seem only humane in the situation. But he treats him like a brother, taking him to an inn and paying for all his needs. Elisha shows this kind of concern, which we call "love" or "charity," for the starving family. Just as Elisha stands near the altar in his companion's vision, we will be closer to Christ for having offered this kind of love.

Finally, both stories teach that our neighbor is not just the one who lives next door or even in our country. No, we are all neighbors to one another. As global warming is making clear, actions in one part of the world can affect lives in other parts. Jesus commands the lawyer to do to others what the Samaritan does for the man assaulted by robbers. We should hear him saying to us too: “Go and do likewise.”

Friday, July 11, 2025

 

Memorial of Saint Benedict, abbot

(Genesis 46:1-7.28-30; Matthew 10:16-23)

Today’s gospel has two time settings.  The first is obviously during Jesus’ ministry.  Jesus sends his apostles before him to create anticipation among the people.  The second is after Jesus’ death when the apostles are to proclaim him as Savior of the nations.

Jesus orders his preachers not to take anything with them on the journey.  He is giving them a lesson in trust.  The apostles will soon realize that any success they have is not a product of their own striving but a gift from God.  Jesus further warns his preachers that they can expect treachery on the journey but that should not deter them.  In fact, it should encourage them because it guarantees their salvation.

We should see ourselves as part of this great mission of Jesus.  We can support missionaries with money, but it is ever more necessary that we give testimony to Jesus ourselves.  One example: a man brought his family home after the Eucharist on Holy Thursday.  He didn’t take off his coat but told his son that he was going back to church to spend some time with his friend Jesus.  We should not be surprised to learn that the man’s son is a priest today.

 

Thursday, July 10, 2025

 

Thursday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Genesis 44:18-21.23b-29.45:1-5; Matthew I0:7-15)

In his 2002 World Day of Peace message, Pope St. John Paul II wrote that there is no peace without justice and that there is no justice without forgiveness.  The latter is a necessary component of peace because it is Impossible for people to work together with enmity filling their hearts.  In today’s first reading Joseph shows required forgiveness toward his brothers.

Of course, Jesus is the teacher and exemplar par excellence of forgiveness.  It has a central place in the Sermon on the Mount (Mt 6:14-15).  He likewise wills to forgive when he prays to his Father for his executioners (Lk 23:24).  Joseph anticipates these actions as he forgives his brothers for selling him into slavery.

Forgiveness does not come easily.  Sometimes we are hurt so bad that it is hard to wish another well.  Then we must pray like Jesus for the will to allow others find the road to salvation.

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

 

Wednesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Genesis 41:55-57.42:5-7a.17-24a; Matthew 10:1-7)

A recent newspaper report linked improvement of memory with a healthier diet and exercise.  This news will surprise few people.  But it may help one appreciate today’s gospel connecting unclean spirits to disease.

 “Unclean spirits” create the sinful tendencies of eating “junk food” and avoiding exertion.  They justify unhealthy practices with the lies that they won’t hurt one or that one deserves more slack. People inspired by the Holy Spirit will reject such distortions of reality.  They will take care of themselves physically and encourage others to do the same

Our bodies are just as much part of who we are as our souls.  We should take care of them by rejecting the voices inside urging us to eat more and to eschew exercise.  We should also thank God for whatever health we physical strength at God’s disposal.

 

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

 

Tuesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Genesis 32:23-32; Matthew 9:32-38)

It is said that today’s first reading is open to many interpretations.  What can we make of it?  Jacob is soon to meet his brother Esau whom he tricked out of his inheritance.  Because Jacob suspects retaliation, he divides his entourage in two so that he will not lose everything to Esau.  Now he encounters the Lord in a wrestling match just as most people find him daily in a struggle of conscience.  Jacob is bothered by a whisper of guilt that he should return Esau’s birthright.  He survives the struggle and even gets the upper hand.  Jacob demands a blessing from the Lord which is given in the form of a new name.  He will be called “Israel,” which means one who has struggled with God. 

Jacob does not totally escape harm.  God strikes him on the hip causing him to limp when he finally meets Esau.  Rather than the wrath he expected, Jacob finds his brother friendly, even solicitous.  God has allowed him to keep his brother’s birthright, but the sore hip will make him wonder at times if it was worth it.

If struggling with God in our conscious means trying to justify an evil act, we should immediately cease the endeavor.  But if it is trying to interpret an ambiguous act in our favor, we may not be wrong to hold forth.  We should purify our memory by honestly and deliberately questioning what we have done.  We live to serve God, not to dictate to Him.

Monday, July 7, 2025

 

Monday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Genesis 28:10-22a; Matthew 9:18-26)

Ask children what they will do when they grow up, and often enough they have an answer.  One girl approximately twelve years old says that she will be a pediatrician.  She will have to work hard to fulfill her plan, but it is not an impossible dream.  We meet Jacob in the first reading today in a comparable situation.

Jacob has left his house as a young man to pursue his destiny.  The reading shows him in communion with God who promises to make him the father of a nation that will bless the entire earth.  In making a shrine on the spot where he receives the revelation, Jacob shows his wholehearted acceptance.    Christians see this promise fulfilled in Jesus, Jacob’s descendant whom the world recognizes as a universal teacher of righteousness.

As we become older, our dreams often become humbler.  We no longer think of changing the world but only hope to change our own hearts.  We want to lose our preoccupation with self so that we might love others as Jesus has shown us.  It is helpful to remember that the same God who promised to accompany Jacob wherever he went is also at our side.

Sunday, July 6, 2025

 

FOURTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

(Isaiah 66:10-14; Galatians 6:14-18; Luke 10:1-19)

This year we have witnessed the peculiarity of five feast Sundays during the month of June. There was no Sunday “in ordinary time” when we would have heard readings from the Letter to the Galatians. This work of Saint Paul is notable for its defense of justification by faith and for Paul's testimony of the events on the road to Damascus and at the council of the apostles in Jerusalem. It has also deprived us of hearing Paul's extraordinary profession of faith: “…it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (2:20). Only today do we hear from this magnificent epistle.

The reading comes from the end of the letter. Paul has taken the pen into his own hand to give a summary of the main themes of the letter. Before we look at these themes, it would be helpful to explain their context.

Galatia was a province of Rome. It included the cities of Pisidia and Phrygia where Paul and Barnabas preached as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles. The letter was prompted by accusations that Paul did not preach the need to be circumcised. In it, Paul defends his position that circumcision is not only unnecessary but counterproductive. It would hold those who submitted to it responsible for fulfilling the entire Mosaic Law.

We can name three themes found in today's reading that are basic to Paul's writings. First, Paul indicates the centrality of the cross in his theology. He says, "May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ…” He goes on to say that by this cross "...the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world."  This means that he is dead to the attractions of the world.  Power, money, pleasure, or prestige no longer interest him in the least. Neither will he serve these entities by indicating that they are important in the end.

Then Paul gives the reason why he rejects the world. Faith and Baptism have made him "a new creation." Together with all the other baptized, he was renewed in the grace of the Holy Spirit. The fruit of the new creation is different from the fruit of the world. For them (and for us), the Holy Spirit has produced love, joy, and peace. Being a "new creation" is not simply a new way of thinking but living a new reality. One can think of an orphan from the most primitive part of the Amazon being adopted by the nuns of a monastery. She is now living the "new creation" to please God with the promise of being in His presence for eternity.

Finally, Paul asks "let no one make troubles for me." He is referring to the Law governing external matters of the body such as circumcision and diet. Paul declares himself free from these obligations, although his freedom is not a license to do whatever he pleases. Rather, Christian freedom is a paradox. It is becoming a slave of Christ. For this reason, Paul adds: “I bear the marks of Jesus on my body.”  By being slaves of Christ, Christians can act according to the deepest desires of their hearts. These are to love what is good, learn what is true, and see what is beautiful.

In short, we can say that Paul has experienced the Kingdom of God. This kingdom is the same reality that Jesus in today’s Gospel sends his disciples to preach throughout the world.

Friday, July 4, 2025

 

Friday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Genesis 23:1-4.19.24:1-8.62-67; Matthew 9:9-13)

Matthew only joined Jesus as a disciple.  He had to learn from him about God and how tell others about God.  The task involved more than listening to Jeus.  Matthew had to reflect, pray, and practice to become a competent evangelist.

Something similar may be said of the men who signed up for the Continental Army after the signing of the Declaration of Independence 149 years ago.  Their enthusiasm had to be transformed into training and corps spirit before they could contribute significantly to American freedom.  It was a drawn-out process which took years to complete.

Similarly becoming saints is no easy task.  We should not give up when our efforts flounder.  Rather we should try again, harder maybe, but always with our minds and hearts fixed on Jesus.  Asking his help assures our success.  He will send the Holy Spirit to make the necessary adjustments that make our lives holy.

Thursday, July 3, 2025

 

Feast of Saint Thomas, Apostle

(Ephesians 2:19-22; John 20:24-29)

A story about St. Thomas Aquinas may assist in appreciating today’s marvelous gospel passage.  Fellow students told Aquinas that there were pigs flying outside the window.  Thomas went to the window to see what they were talking about.  When the students laughed at his naivete, he declared.  “I would rather believe that pigs can fly than that my brothers would lie to me.”  Unfortunately, Aquinas’ namesake was not so trusting.

Thomas Didymus not only didn’t believe his fellow disciples, he disregarded what Jesus taught and the evidence of the empty tomb.  He might have remembered that Jesus told his disciples he was going beforehand to find places for them in his Father’s house.  Although the empty tomb could not prove Jesus’ resurrection, it does point in that direction.  Thomas, however, prefers skepticism to belief, even when it means breaking faith with his companions.

We should be more discreet.  We do not have to accept everything that people say, but we need not be readily dismissive.  Regarding such fundamental truth such as Jesus’ Resurrection, we must not give way to saying with materialists, “It is impossible.”  Rather we should consider the testimony of the event through the ages, what Jesus said and did, and our own motives - both good and selfish – for believing.  Doing so, we are likely to find solid ground for believing and living in the new creation which the Resurrection heralds.

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

 

Wednesday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Genesis 21:5.8-20a; Matthew 8:28-34)

Today’s first reading displays positive and negative qualities of both Abraham and Sarah.  Abraham made a huge mistake in having relations with Hagar, his wife’s slave.  However, he has compassion on her and his son when Sarah wants them to be sent away.  He seeks help from God who gives him assurance that they will prosper.

Sarah knows that a home with two families is not a healthy environment.  But she acts heartlessly as she demands Abraham to “drive out that slave and her son.”  Fortunately for Hagar and Ismael the Lord comes to their aid when he hears their cries.

The story provides rich spiritual lessons.  All of us are a mix of positive and negative qualities.  We must heed the Lord so that our vices do not dominate our actions.  It also warns us about doing evil to achieve good.  Such action makes matters worse.  Finally, it reminds us to call upon the Lord in prayer when we feel desperate.  He is waiting to help us.

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

 Tuesday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

 (Genesis 19:15-29; Matthew 8:23-27)

 General George Marshall, the Army Chief of Staff during World War II and later Secretary of State responsible for the Marshall Plan, was renowned for his self-control.  After making critical decisions that affected thousands of lives, Marshall could peacefully take a nap.  He was not careless but trusting in the Lord’s working in his life.  In today’s gospel Jesus proves himself to be a person of infinitely greater composure.

 Jesus’ disciples are amazed that the storm snaps at his command.  It is almost as remarkable that he could sleep in a small boat being rocked by a tempest.  The story is meant to teach more than Jesus’ authority over nature and his serenity.  It is also a lesson in Jesus’ presence to the Church after the resurrection.  The ship in the storm symbolizes the Church in its infancy.  It is being challenged in every direction – persecutions, heresies, contentious questions like accommodation of non-Jews.  The portrayal of Jesus sleeping represents the temptation of thinking that he is indifferent about these challenges.  All the disciples have to do to secure his help is beseech him in prayer. 

 We too at times may feel overwhelmed by the circumstances in which we find ourselves.  Perhaps we have promised to do more than now seems possible to accomplish.  Or maybe our children bring home problems that we thought happen in only the most troubled of families.  We too can find recourse in the Lord Jesus.  As he calmed the storm for his disciples, he will assist us in our need.

Monday, July 1, 2025

 

Monday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Genesis 18:16-23; Matthew 8:18-22)

A very successful pastor was awarded a ranking position in the diocesan chancery.  When he saw his mother he shared the good news.  His mother, however, looked worried.  When he asked her why the long face, she said, “If you don’t visit the sick and bury the dead visit the sick and bury the dead, how will you get to heaven?”

Often our mothers teach us more about Christian ethics than classes in the finest universities.  They are usually the ones who instill upon us the Lord’s love and mercy.  This is the message conveyed so dramatically in today’s first reading.  Abraham may believe that he is giving God a lesson in mercy when he banters with God about saving the infamous cities of Sodom and Gomorrah.  But God is eternally kind and infinitely merciful.

We must never forget this message, even when we see bad things happening to good people.  We should remember that no one is entirely just.  We all sin against the Lord who created us.  Yet God sent His Son to die in a way more terrible than any evil people experience so that our sins may be forgiven.

Sunday, June 29, 2025

 

Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles

(Acts 12:1-11; 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17-18; Matthew 16:13-19)

You may have wondered: why are the two preeminent saints of the early Church celebrated together? It seems that both Saints Peter and Paul deserve a separate day to honor them. After all, Peter was Christ's first vicar, and Paul was his greatest promoter. Indeed, different aspects of Peter and Paul are celebrated separately. The See of Saint Peter is commemorated on February 22. Likewise, January 25 is dedicated to the conversion of Saint Paul.

However, there are reasons to commemorate Peter and Paul together. There is a tradition that they were martyred at the same time. More importantly, they are both associated with the Church of Rome as its patron saints. This church has the distinction of being first among all others in constancy of faith. Furthermore, both have become larger-than-life figures, symbols for Christians throughout the centuries.

Saint Peter symbolizes authority within the Church. Although the Acts of the Apostles attests to his great preaching ability, he is associated with the institutional Church. Today's Gospel shows him receiving from Jesus "the keys of the Kingdom," which in themselves are symbols of authority. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus promises Peter his support. He says: "...I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail, and that you may strengthen your brothers."

Saint Paul, although the preeminent evangelizer, can be even more closely associated with the theology of the Church. In his letters to the various local churches, he originated such key Christian concepts as justification by faith in Christ and the universality and exclusivity of salvation through Christ. It is little wonder that Paul has been called the "second founder of Christianity." There is another characteristic of the two patron saints of Rome that is perhaps more significant for us. They both shared an inestimable love for Jesus Christ. Paul was so identified with Christ that he wrote to the Galatians: “…it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Gal 2:20). At Jesus' prompting, Peter declared three times, each time more solemnly: “…I love you.” This is the same kind of love that moved Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta to declare: “I was Albanian by birth. Now I am a citizen of India. I am also a Catholic nun. In my work, I belong to the whole world. But in my heart, I belong to Christ.”

We should foster this love within ourselves. It is not difficult when we consider with faith that Christ not only gave his life to justify us from sin; that he is not only the Son of God and our brother by virtue of the Incarnation; but that he is also our daily companion, enabling us to live in peace until we may attain the happiness of eternal life.

Friday, November 27, 2025

 

Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

(Ezekiel 34:11-16; Romans 5:5b-11; Luke 15:3-7)

In his last encyclical letter Dilexit Nos Pope Francis wrote of how contemporary humans, bombarded by technology, live at a hectic pace.  We have become used to fulfilling our wants instantly.  Quoting St. John Paul II, Pope Francis said that people are in danger of losing their very center, which is their heart.  Wise people are wary of Artificial Intelligence because it promises to take decisions and actions even farther away from our hearts.

Pope Francis recommended a return to the heart, not the individual heart but one united to the heart of Jesus.  Jesus will form it in compassion, a way of opening the heart to others.  In synch with the heart of Jesus, the person forgets selfish desires as he or she lives for others.

Today we celebrate the compassionate, loving heart of Jesus.  The gospel pictures him telling his critics of a shepherd who hustles to find a lost sheep.  He wants them to know that God loves each human person like the shepherd loves each of his sheep.  Assured of God’s love, his critics might recover their own hearts in loving others.

Thursday, June 26, 2025

 

Thursday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

(Genesis 16:1-12.15-16; Matthew 7:21-29)

Today’s first reading warns us of the havoc that can take place when humans defy the will of God.  Abram and Sarai are married, never mind that they lived before the Jewish law was established and before sacramental marriage between Christians.  Natural law dictates that man and woman give exclusively themselves to each other in marriage.  The arrangement allows no exceptions for progeny purposes.  The abuse that followed upon Sarai’s giving of her maidservant to Abram should have been expected.

Today childless couples are turning to technology to satisfy their desire for a baby.  Invitro fertilization provides conception from their ovum and sperm in a laboratory.  The resultant embryo is as much a commodity as it is a human being.  The man and woman are as much physical instruments as they are parents.  The process does not condemn the offspring.  He or she must be treated as any other child.  But it does put humanity farther along on the course of dehumanization.

There are alternatives to invitro fertilization for childless couples.  Fertility clinics based on Catholic moral principles often find ways to help them conceive naturally.  Facilitating their use, we help childless couples have children in a natural, often less expensive way.  We also assist in the spread of the Gospel.

 

Wednesday, June 25, 2025

Wednesday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

(Genesis 15:1-12.17-18; Matthew 7:15-20)

Today’s first reading makes us wonder why our married friends who desperately want a child are not so blessed as Abram.  They too keep asking the Lord as they worry about not having an heir like them in appearance and virtue.  Knowing their goodness, we question God’s hearing their pleas.

God responds favorably to Abram by ratcheting up his promise.  His descendants will be not only as numerous as the sand on the earth but as glorious as the stars in the sky.  He has not made a like promise to everyone.  But he has promised His Holy Spirit with eternal life to all who believe in His Son Jesus Christ.  The Spirit will bring them joy and peace as they make Jesus’ prayer, “Thy will be done,” their own.

Just because God does not provide everything we ask for should not discourage us from praying.  We know that He loves us.  We have also seen how God opens doors and windows to a better life that we have never noticed.  Let us stand fast in our faith of the Lord Jesus. 

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

 

Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist

(Isaiah 49:1-6; Acts 13:22-26; Luke 1:57-66.80)

When Josef Ratzinger, who became Pope Benedict XVI, was just ordained, the Bavarian village where he grew up celebrated their new priest.  It was a grand affair with just about everyone participating.  Ratzinger remembered years later that he had to tell himself, “This is not about you, Josef, this is not about you.”  He knew that the people were excited about having one of their own becoming “another Christ.”  They loved the Lord so much that they exalted in knowing that one among them would take his place in providing the sacraments.  John the Baptist said something like what Josef Ratzinger said to himself as crowds gathered to hear him preach.

John was evidently a powerful preacher.  St. Matthew recalls in his gospel how people from all Judea came to hear his speak.  Many became so convinced by his words that they proclaimed him the Messiah.  But John knew that he was only the herald of the one who was to redeem Israel.  As Paul testifies in today’s reading from Acts, he told the people, “I am not he.”

John gives us an important lesson here.  He was not the Messiah, nor are we although sometimes we think of ourselves in that way.  We will be rudely abused of that attitude someday.  That will be a blessing.  If we don’t give up the attitude, it will deprive us of knowing salvation from Jesus, the true Messiah.

Monday, June 23, 2025

 

Monday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

(Genesis 12:1-9; Matthew 7:1-5)

Many young men today hear a call like the one Abram receives in today’s first reading.  They are moved to leave behind homeland and family to live in a new land.  They are not necessarily pious as Abram probably was not.  But they feel an invisible power beckoning them to a life more bountiful than the one they leave behind.  Thinking about Abram today, one might recall the millions of immigrants around the world.  They are searching for a better life than the poverty and often violence of their own countries.

This is the beginning of the story of God’s chosen people.  All descendants of Abram and his wife Sarai will be part of that nation.  Sarai is childless to this point. Later Genesis comments that she is very beautiful.  God has called this adventuresome man with an eye for a beautiful woman to father a special people.  Their righteousness in time will lead the world to praise Him.

Like Jews we understand Abram to be our father in faith.  His sometimes earthly character should remind us that God does not only call the saintly but us as well.  Like Abram also we must respond to God’s call.  This is not a once-and-for-all proposition.  Rather, it means faithfulness day-in and day-out even when it seems like an absurd venture.

Sunday, , June 22, 2025

 

THE SOLEMNITY OF THE BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST

(Genesis 14:18-20; I Corinthians 11:23-26; Luke 9:11-17)

The Second Vatican Council called the Eucharist the “source and summit” of our faith. We have the feast of the Body and Blood of Christ to contemplate why this is so. We will do our contemplation here by focusing on the first reading with continued reference to the Letter to the Hebrews and other biblical passages as resources.

The reading introduces Melchizedek, a figure who appears both obscure and illuminating in the Bible. In the Old Testament, his name is seen only in this passage and in Psalm 110. However, in the New Testament Letter to the Hebrews, he is amply described as a model for understanding Jesus Christ.

The reading calls Melchizedek “king of Salem.” Salem or shalom is the Hebrew word for peace. As Melchizedek is “king of peace,” Christ will be known as “prince of peace.” He will prove himself worthy of the title when he reconciles Jews and pagans through his death on the cross. As the Letter to the Ephesians says, he reconciled both peoples to God in one Body through the cross, destroying the enmity in his person (cf. Ephesians 2:16).

The reading also says that Melchizedek is a priest. As such, he offers God bread and wine on behalf of Abram. The Letter to the Hebrews also emphasizes Christ's priestly role. Like Melchizedek, at the Last Supper Jesus will present to God bread and wine on behalf of the whole world.

Jesus will convert the offerings into his Body and Blood. On the next day, these same elements will be sacrificed to win the world forgiveness of its sins. Insofar as he relieves those who believe in him from sin, Jesus' offering will be a blessing of inestimable value.

The Letter to the Hebrews goes on to contrast the priests and sacrifices of the Old Testament with Christ and his sacrifice on the cross. In short, it says that the priests could not offer sacrifices as efficacious as Christ's because they had sinned, while Christ never sinned. Their sacrifices also pale in comparison to Christ's because they were only the blood of animals, while Christ, the Son of God, offered his own blood. Furthermore, the Old Testament sacrifices had to be repeated as long as people continued to sin. But Christ's sacrifice was once and for all because it freed humanity from the condition of sin.

We should now remember that we witness Jesus' supreme sacrifice every time we attend Mass. Because Jesus is divine, his death on the cross constituted an eternal act. That is, it took place once and for all in time, but it continues occurring outside of time. Our participation in the Mass brings us to the threshold of eternity. It is like a small window through which we see the risen Christ glorifying God the Father with his death on the cross.

Friday, June 20, 2025

 

Friday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

(II Corinthians 11:18.21-30; Matthew 6:19-23)

As almost everyone knows, a parable is a comparison from everyday life that aids understanding of difficult concepts.  Jesus used parables effectively in speaking to the poor about the Kingdom of God. Today’s gospel pictures him preaching about the need to value justice over wealth.  The parable he uses, however easy it was for his hearers to understand, is difficult for people today.

He says, “The lamp of the body is the eye.” That is how the ancient world considered the eye – like a lamp that projects one’s light or understanding into an object so that it may be known.  (Think of yourselves as looking for a can of Coca-Cola which you know will have the shape of a cylinder and the color red.  Then you scan the pantry for red cylinders.)  If one’s eye is defective (if it is color-blind, for example), it will have a hard time finding what it is looking for.

What do we want in life?  What are our eyes looking for?  If it is wealth and comfort, Jesus predicts that we will end in ruin because wealth and comfort are not ultimately important.  However, if we are looking for justice and kindness, if our eyes see rightly, we will die content.  We will be destined to eternal life with Jesus.

Thursday, June 19, 2025

 

Thursday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

(II Corinthians 11:1-11; Matthew 6:7-15)

As a manager places his best hitter in the middle of the batting order, so Matthew has put the Our Father at the middle of the Sermon on the Mount.  The evangelist wants the reader to realize that the incredible demands that Jesus makes of his disciples cannot be fulfilled by their efforts alone.  They absolutely need the help of God, or they will fail to comply.

One need not live too long or study too much to realize how much sin has entered the world.  Look around for what motivates people, and you will not likely find that it is love of God.  Rather, people usually act out of desire for fun, fame, or fortune.  When one is asked to make a great effort without an immediate payoff, she or he will likely not act at all.

But Jesus promises an eternal reward for those who follow his commands.  Again, it is not easy to always do his will, but he will send his Spirit to help us.  We just have to ask the Father in the name of the Son.

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

 

Wednesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

(II Corinthians 9:6-11; Matthew 6:1-6.16-18)

Henri Nouwen was one of the most noted spiritual writers of the second half of the last century.  He wrote columns and books on how to live the gospel every day.  At one point he turned his attention to fundraising.  He explained to those working in Church development how to serve God more faithfully.

Nouwen wrote that fundraising is not begging.  Rather it is projecting a vision for the Church and asking people to share in it with their money.  In short, it is a way to involve people in the Church’s ministry.  He also saw fundraising as a call to conversion.  Both fundraisers and potential benefactors are called to change their perspective.  They should come to terms with the fact that God’s new project has a role for them.

We have been hearing about St. Paul’s fundraising project in the first reading these last few days.  He is calling the community in Corinth to help support the Christians in Jerusalem.  He is asking them to look beyond their own needs to people in distress.  No doubt, he sees their assistance as a way to solidify the communion of Jews and non-Jews that the Church is meant to be.

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

 

Tuesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

(II Corinthians 8:1-9; Matthew 5: 43-48)

A saying about donating to charity has no reference but is worth repeating: “Giving has never made anyone poor.”   Most people hedge their donations to assure that they have something for themselves.  Nevertheless, in a mysterious way when people give to others, they often receive more in return,

In today’s first reading, St. Paul tells the Corinthians about his experience in Macedonia. The people there accepted both faith in Christ and the ties of community.  Paul lauds their generosity as he begs the Corinthians for a similar display of charity. 

We are also reminded to help the poor in need.  With Internet opportunities to give are almost endless.  We can donate to local soup kitchens and human rights organizations on the other side of the world.  What is important is that we give generously for others as Christ gave for us.

Monday, June 16, 2025

 

Monday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

(II Corinthians 66:1010; Matthew 5:38-42)

Quite often preachers will distort the impact of today’s gospel.  They say that Jesus suggested turning the other cheek and walking the extra mile as a strategy to morally defeat one’s opponent.  For example, they say that turning the other cheek will force the striker to use the front of his hand and not the back which is supposedly embarrassing. But there is little agreement on this among biblical commentators today and probably less basis for it in first century Palestine annals.

Jesus proposes turning the cheek and walking the second mile as ways of humble service.  Because he wants his disciples to be beyond reproach, he asks compliance in all that is not evil.  Of course, he would allow them to rescue a child or even to save themselves serious injury.  But their behavior must be “greater than the of the Pharisees” as he has said earlier in the discourse.

We need not worry about how we will react if we are stricken on one cheek or constrained to walk a mile for someone.  Rather let us ask ourselves how we might be of better service to others.  Then, of course, let us do it knowing that this is what the Lord expects of us.

Sunday, June 15, 2025

 

SOLEMNITY OF THE MOST HOLY TRINITY

(Proverbs 8:22-31; Romans 5:1-5; John 16:12-15)

The Holy Trinity is a mystery. It cannot be fully understood. Yet each year we make “a raid into the inarticulate” when we celebrate its feast on the Sunday after Pentecost. Whether a joy or a burden, it seems that only on this day do we reflect on how God can be both three and one.

Since ancient times, there have been two approaches to understanding the Trinity. One is called “economic” and the other “immanent.” To speak of “the economic Trinity” implies the study of God interacting with creation. Of course, God acts with creation every moment. If He did not, creation would cease to exist. However, the interactions traditionally considered of the “economic Trinity” are creation, redemption, and the history of salvation. We scrutinize the Bible to determine the role of the three persons of the Divine Trinity in these and other matters.

The “immanent Trinity” refers to the relationships among the three persons. The Bible does not help us much here. We must turn to philosophy for clues for our investigation. 1,700 years ago, the Church accepted the idea of ​​Saint Athanasius and other Church Fathers that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit have the same divine nature. This nature, which each possesses in its fullness, makes possible the paradox that the three are the same in all respects except that they differ in their relationship with one another. Instead of following this philosophical line of investigation, we will focus on the economic approach since today's Mass readings indicate the roles of the one God in our salvation.

The first reading from the Book of Proverbs personifies wisdom as God's companion in creation. In fact, wisdom speaks as if she were a person, saying that she has existed "at the first " and has been God’s "craftsman." These qualifications make us think of the Son and also the Spirit. Saint Paul even writes that Jesus Christ is "the wisdom of God" (1 Cor 1:24). And we know that wisdom is the first gift of the Spirit mentioned in the Book of the prophet Isaiah (Is 11:2-3). We may conclude that absolute wisdom is an intellectual virtue possessed by God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

The second reading also emphasizes the roles of the Son and the Holy Spirit. It recounts that Jesus Christ (the Son) reconciled us with the Father through his death on the cross. It also relates that the Holy Spirit has renewed us in love so that even the suffering caused by our sins may merit eternal life. We know that the Holy Spirit is associated with reconciliation, as indicated when the priest says in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, “(The Father) … sent the Holy Spirit for the remission of sins…” Likewise, the Son effects love in our hearts, as Paul further attests in this same Letter to the Romans: “…neither death nor life … nor any other creature will ever be able to separate us from the love of God, manifested in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

The Gospel indicates how the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit cooperate with each other. It shows that all three have the same knowledge by stating that the Spirit reveals the truth of the Son received from the Father.

In the end, it can be dizzying for many to reflect on the Holy Trinity. It is a mystery that admits no resolution because God is always beyond understanding. However, we can contemplate it, appreciate it, and give thanks for it.  Considering the Trinity increases our faith and nourishes our love.

Friday, June 13, 2025

 

Memory of Saint Anthony of Padua, priest and Doctor of the Church

(II Corinthians 4:7-15; Matthew 5:27-32)

It is said that early images of St. Anthony were made with him holding a book of Scripture.  In time, however, the Christ-child replaced the book as most images of Anthony depict him today.  The change is quite sensible since Jesus is the word of God.  In any case, Anthony knew, like St. Paul in today’s first reading, that Christ was the treasure within him.

Paul could not but preach Jesus Christ.  The Lord’s glory worked within Paul so that nothing stopped him.  As he will say later in this letter, he preached despite the fact that “(F)ive times at the hands of the Jews I received forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I passed a night and a day on the deep; on frequent journeys, in dangers from rivers, dangers from robbers, dangers from my own race, dangers from Gentiles, dangers in the city, dangers in the wilderness, dangers at sea, dangers among false brothers; in toil and hardship, through many sleepless nights, through hunger and thirst, through frequent fastings, through cold and exposure.”

Christ did not live exclusively in Anthony or Paul.  He lives within most of us. As with them, Christ wants us to show him to others.  By our words and actions we are to give glory to Jesus Christ.

Thursday, June 12, 2025

 

Thursday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time

(II Corinthians 3:15-4.1.3-6; Matthew 5:20-26)

Today’s first reading challenges understanding.  It is not an integral piece from Paul’s letter.  It also uses a difficult metaphor.   In the passage Paul tries to explain to the Corinthians why Jews have rejected the Gospel while he urges them to embrace it.

The tricky image that Paul uses is a veil.  He takes it from the Book of Exodus where Moses used a veil to cover his face after seeing the glory of the Lord on Mount Sinai.  Paul claims that the Jews are still prevented from seeing the reflection of the Lord’s glory, which has become the Gospel.  Paul has revealed this to them by his preaching.

What keeps people today from embracing the Gospel?  What is the contemporary veil?  Different people probably are blinded by different veils, but scientism is prevalent among many.  People won’t accept anything as certain that is not subject to empirical proof.  However, just as we are sure that parents love their children, we know that our Creator loves us.

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Memorial of St. Barnabas, apostle

(Acts 11:21b-26.13:1-3; Matthew 5:17-19)

St. Barnabas may not be on any short list of patron saints for religion teachers, but he consummately fills the role.  We might call him the prototypical catechist given that, besides Jesus, he seems to be the first teacher mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles. 

In Acts Barnabas teaches by both word and example.  His giving the total proceeds of the sale of his property to the community in Jerusalem has taught Christians generosity and commitment throughout the centuries.  Today’s reading from Acts testifies how the Holy Spirit calls Barnabas from teaching to preaching as an apostle.

All of us can imitate Barnabas.  We need to be generous with our belongings, caring of others in order to teach, and bold enough to proclaim Jesus in public. It is a tall order, but having been endowed with the Holy Spirit, we can do it.

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

 

Tuesday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time

(II Corinthians 1:18-22; Matthew 5:13-16)

Jesus’ exhortation in today’s gospel recalls St. John of the Cross’ warning about memory.  The author of the Dark Night of the Soul recognized how memory of one’s accomplishments can interfere with God’s taking possession of one’s mind.  Although the memories may have an overall positive effect, the person will not experience the awesome wonder of a divine encounter.

Jesus likewise warns his disciples of the danger of losing their virtue.  Watching television for hours can dull a person’s desire to exert her or himself on behalf of others.  Lying to make another feel good can deteriorate one’s regard for the truth.  Jesus is calling his disciple to service of the Kingdom.  They will be of no more use than salt which has become insipid or a lamp whose bulb has burnt out.

Disciples are not backsliders.   They keep growing in virtue so that others may be blessed and God may be praised.  We should pray to be better women and men and then should discipline ourselves so that we might move with the Holy Spirit.

Monday, June 9, 2025

 

Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church

(Acts 1:12-14; John 19:25-34)

In the perspective of Luke Mary, the mother of the Lord, was among the original recipients of the Holy Spirit.  When the Spirit came on Pentecost, Mary was there with the other disciples to receive him. The scene has a parallel in John’s gospel which adds credence to its historical basis.

At the foot of Jesus’ cross in John’s gospel, Mary stands with the Beloved Disciple.  They will form the nucleus of his Church.  After giving them to one another, Jesus sips wine from a sponge and hands over his spirit.  The spirit is not different from the one who rests on all his disciples at Pentecost.  It creates unity and love in those whom it touches.

We too have been given the Holy Spirit.  It comes in Baptism and will remain unless we cause it to go through sin.  We should nourish the Spirit through frequent reception of Communion.  We should also follow its prompting to love all whom we meet.

Sunday, June 8, 2025

Pentecost Sunday

(Acts 2:1-11; 1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13; John 14:15-16, 23-26)

Pope Leo XIV has chosen a coat of arms with the motto (in Latin): “In illo, uno unum.” The words are from Saint Augustine of Hippo, the patron of the religious order to which the pope belongs. They mean: “In Him (Christ), who is one, we are one.” Today we celebrate the Holy Spirit who keeps us one in faith and in love.

The entity in which we are held together as one through the Spirit is not a building made of concrete. Rather, it is something organic that grows and develops. It is, of course, the Body of Christ that we commonly call “the Church.” The Holy Spirit forms human persons in the cells of the different organs of the Body. Some of us constitute His arms that reach out to those in need. Others compose His voice, proclaiming both our belief in God and our praise of God. As the second reading says today, just as the human body has various types of organs, the Body of Christ has various types of ministries.

The cells of the Body of Christ are nourished by the bread made into the Flesh of Christ and the wine made into the Blood of Christ. This mystery of the Eucharist is likewise the work of the Holy Spirit. He transforms everyday food -- that is bread and wine -- into the Body of Christ that lives forever. Even when we fully digest the Body of Christ, it remains. As St. Augustine himself put it, when we eat the Body of Christ, he does not become part of us (like regular bread), but we become part of Him.”

The first reading from the Acts of the Apostles highlights the unity of faith throughout entire Church. Ignited by the Spirit, the disciples begin to preach. Not only do all the visitors to Jerusalem hear them speaking in their own languages ​​by reason of the Holy Spirit. They also all receive the same message as proclaimed by Peter in what follows in the Book of Acts. Peter will say that Jesus performed many miracles and signs among the people; nevertheless, the Jews put him to death on the cross, but God raised him from the dead. This basic message, which has been called "Kerygma" (in Greek or "proclamation" in English), has developed through the ages through the Spirit. With reflection on the Scriptures, the Kerygma has produced the dogmas of the Incarnation, the Resurrection from the dead, Redemption from sin, and the Holy Trinity. As Jesus says in the Gospel, the Spirit will teach the Church "everything."

The Holy Spirit also keeps us in love. Through the Spirit, the Father and the Son dwell in our hearts, as the Gospel also says. With God filling our interiors, we cannot help but love. This love extends beyond our family and friends to all inhabitants of the world, living and dead.

As much as we would like to love, we are sometimes challenged by loving those we don't like. It may be a boss who doesn't want to talk to us. It may even be our husband or wife who doesn't accept our affection. The Gospel calls the Holy Spirit "the Advocate." This word translates the Greek word paraclete, which literally means "called to one's side." When we lack the desire to love, the Advocating Spirit advises us on how to offer it.

Considering all that the Holy Spirit does, one might think that he doesn't receive enough attention in the Church's liturgy. However, the persons of the Holy Trinity do not compete with one another. Because they are one, when we worship the Father, we worship the Spirit. And when we honor the Spirit, we honor the Son. And when we thank the Son, we thank the Father.

Friday, June 6, 2025

 

Friday of the Seventh Week of Easter

(Acts 13b-21; John 21:15-19)

Today’s first reading relates the Roman governor’s desire that the Jewish king Agrippa hold a hearing of St. Paul.  Oddly, it does not give the result of the hearing.  After hearing Paul, the king does not think him guilty of any crime.  In Luke’s gospel, Jesus similarly goes before the Jewish king (in his case Herod Antipas) and is also judged innocent. 

A parallel to this result is seen in today’s gospel.  Jesus indicates to St. Peter that he will die a martyr’s death.  Quite directly he tells Peter, “Follow me.”  Eventually Peter like Jesus will die by crucifixion.

The lesson for us is obvious.  Like the two great apostles, we should follow Jesus.  Probably our pursuit will not end in martyrdom.  But it will likely cause us suffering.  Early Christians were happy to suffer like the Lord.  We might find it stressful but should recognize its value.  The more we suffer for Jesus, the closer we come to him both now and forever.

Thursday, June 5, 2025

 

Memorial of Saint Boniface, bishop and martyr

(Acts 22:30.23:6-11; John 17:20-26)

Today’s patron, St. Boniface, was English born and educated.  He became a monk but also a missionary.  He preached today’s gospel – the unity of Father, Son, and Spirit -- mainly in what is now Germany.  His message included the unity of humans in Christ.  Boniface exemplified this unity when he gave his life for the people he served.

Giving themselves to Christ in Baptism, Christians take on his mind and heart.  They share the same faith and come to love selflessly as Christ did.  It is not only a matter of imitating Christ’s love.  More importantly, they imbibe his Precious Blood which moves them to perfect love.

We cannot have the same mind and will as the Father, Son, and Spirit.  Their unity in everything except the relationships among them makes them God.  However, we approach their unity by believing what the Son taught and, especially, loving one another as he loved all.

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

 

Wednesday of the Seventh Week of Easter

(Acts 20:28-38; John 17:11b-19)

In today’s first reading St. Paul expresses concern over the truth of Christ.  He tells Church leaders that he taught the whole truth of Jesus Christ.  Now he is worried that false evangelists will come along distorting it. 

Paul taught that God created the world good and gave it to humans to care for.  He said that God made only one demand – that humans not eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. (Perhaps to avoid misunderstanding, God reserved to Himself the determination of right and wrong.)  Paul further taught that humans, deceived by the Father of lies, wanted to claim equality with their benefactor.  So they ate from the tree of knowledge, and alienated themselves from God.  Their situation was hopeless because they could never cease trying to compete with God.   God Himself had to come to their rescue.  The Father sent His Son as a human, whom we know as Jesus Christ.  The Son submitted himself completely to the Father’s will.  As Paul says, Christ gave his blood which won for him, the God-man, eternal life.  Now those who partake of that blood offered in the Church, his Body, may acquire not only forgiveness but also eternal life.

False evangelists are still among us.  They may not be bad-intentioned, but nevertheless they get the story of salvation wrong.  They may claim that they have a better idea of good and bad than Jesus taught.  They may say that God loves everybody so that a person need not join himself or herself to Christ’s body to reach salvation.  Whatever their mistakes, we do well to avoid false teachers by adhering to St. Paul’s teaching.

Tuesday, June 3, 2025

 Memorial of Charles Lwanga and Companions

 (Acts 20:17-27; John 17:1-11a)

The old priest was found dead on the floor without life signs.  Some would say that he had the best death possible – without suffering or invasive hospital procedures.  But this point is debatable. Today's readings show other ways to die.

 Paul feels his end is near as he travels to Jerusalem.  On the journey he stops at the port of Miletus and sends for the church workers in Ephesus to meet him.  With old friends around him he shares his affection and concerns.  In the gospel Jesus has been instructing his disciples throughout the long final discourse.  In today’s passage he prays to his Father for them.

No one can enjoy suffering.  But we should not always run from it.  Through suffering we can draw closer to Jesus on the cross.  It even allows us to share in his work of redemption.  Suffering in the dying process may also afford us opportunity to confirm our love for those who mean the most to us.  Like both Paul and Jesus, we may want to embrace it for the sake of others.

Monday, June 2, 2025

 

Monday of the Seventh Week of Easter

(Acts 19:1-8; John 16:19-23)

With Pentecost less than a week away, the Church supplies Mass readings that focus on the Holy Spirit.  In today’s reading from Acts, the Spirit’s effect on believers is visually described.

The disciples of John the Baptist heard of the coming Messiah but were baptized according to John’s rite of repentance.  Only being able to recognize their sins, they experienced difficulty reforming their lives.  Paul arrives to help them.  He likely gives them instructions regarding the Spirit before he baptizes in the name of Jesus.  Immediately they show the Spirit’s effects by living in a new way.  They speak in tongues, praise the Lord, and hold forth prophetically about the good they must do.

The Holy Spirit is inviting us to pray these days that we may more energetically live what we believe.  He will come to show us how to bring about peace through selfless love.

Sunday, June 1, 2025

ASCENSION OF THE LORD

(Acts 1:1-11; Hebrews 9:24-28, 10:19-23 (Ephesians 1:17-23); Luke 24:46-53)

In 1961, Russian cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin returned from the first human voyage into outer space. In an interview afterward, he said, “I looked and looked, but I did not see God.” His statement was likely just mockery of believers by an atheist. But it raises a question worth exploring on this Solemnity of the Ascension. Should we expect to find heaven in the heavens? In other words, is heaven a physical place? Because Jesus has a resurrection body, it seems He needs a physical place to contain Him.

We begin by examining the first reading and the Gospel for today’s Mass. Both were written by the evangelist we know as Luke. Both also report Jesus ascending into heaven. But the accounts are not entirely the same. We will discuss the Gospel first, since it was written earlier and is simpler. Then we will look at the longer reading from the Acts of the Apostles.

The Gospel text portrays Jesus appearing to his apostles on the night of his resurrection. He explains what happened to him in terms of Scripture. At the end, he commands them to preach his resurrection to all nations and how it led to the forgiveness of sins. However, before beginning the mission, he tells them to await the coming of the Holy Spirit. Then Jesus leaves the house to ascend into heaven, evidently on the same night.

The reading from Acts says that Jesus appeared several times to his apostles during forty days after his resurrection. For the most part, he spoke of the Kingdom of God in these appearances. On the fortieth day, the apostles expressed the same concern for the Kingdom that we have. They asked Jesus when he would return to demonstrate his dominion over the world. Jesus responds that it is not for them to know the exact time. However, he says that they will receive the Holy Spirit so that they may bear witness to him throughout the world. Then he rises from their sight until he vanishes into a cloud. The reading ends with two angels (the "men in white") telling them that Jesus will return as they have seen him depart.

The two readings point to several conclusions about the Ascension. First, it teaches that Jesus has a firm idea of ​​how his mission will continue. He will not be limited by being with his disciples in the flesh. Rather, he will remain with them through his Holy Spirit as they preach forgiveness throughout the world. Second, the forty days are not an exact time but rather a way for Luke to create order in his story. At the beginning of the Gospel, Luke promised the reader just this order. Third, the day of Jesus' return is unknown, although it is certain that he will return. The motive of his return is to fulfill God's promise to restore his Kingdom on earth (see Is 32:1-11). Fourth, the Ascension anticipates the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples at Pentecost and upon us at Baptism. The Spirit will help us carry out the mission of proclaiming Jesus' resurrection from the dead and the forgiveness of sin in his name. Fifth, the cloud acts as a chariot carrying Jesus to the glory of heaven where he will reside forever. From there he sends forth his Spirit. Finally, the residence of Christ with the Father is a spiritual place, not a material one. In the First Letter to the Corinthians, Saint Paul writes that Jesus' body has been changed from corruptibility to incorruptibility, from weakness to power, and from material reality to spiritual reality. Therefore, when the Scriptures speak of heaven as above, they mean freedom from material things, like a bird in flight.

For us today, the Ascension allows us to live as free men and women. It presents us as victorious over sin through the Lord's death and destined for glory with bodies transformed like that of the resurrected Jesus. This is because we have the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to proclaim Christ to everyone we meet.

Friday, May 30, 2025

 

Friday of the Sixth Week of Easter

(Acts 18:9-18; John 16:20-23)

As if global warming were not enough concern for the future, another catastrophe looms on the horizon.  Western cultures will wane if not disappear because women in many nations do not want to bear children.  The joy of which Jesus speaks in today’s gospel is being lost.

Jesus speaks of childbearing as a metaphor to describe his imminent death and resurrection.  He tells his disciples that their anguish will be great like a woman in labor as they watch him suffer and die.  But like a child being born, he will rise to a new life giving them great joy.

Jesus shares his new life with us in Baptism.  Properly nourished with the Eucharist, the new life will recognize the need to procreate for the common good.  It will also acknowledge that few things are more satisfying than guiding one’s progeny to become loving, faithful people of God.