Thursday, January 1, 2026

Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God
The Octave Day of the Nativity of the Lord

(Numbers 6:22-27; Galatians 4:4-7; Luke 2:16-21)

Today, the eighth day of Christmas, the Church venerates "Mary, the Mother of God."  The title is by no means peripheral as some others found in the litany of Mary.  Rather it encapsulates the meaning of the Incarnation: God became fully human so that He might redeem all humans from their sins.  For this reason, the Church places this feast on the octave or completion of the high feast of Christmas.

There is another important reason to celebrate the feast of Mary, the Mother of God, today.  As this day begins the new year, Mary is given as the patron for the whole year.  Here, patron” has a double meaning.  As patrons of arts support artists and art institutions, Mary supports the Church with her prayers.  Mary is also a patron in the sense that she is one to be emulated. She provides a pattern (derived from the same root as “patron”) or model for Christians to follow throughout the new year.

We should, like Mary in today’s passage, reflect on the events related in the gospel.   But we should not limit ourselves to reflection.  Rather, like Mary raising the Christ-child, we should act on what is revealed to us in ways which give glory to God.

  

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

 The Seventh Day in the Octave of Christmas

(I John 2:18-21; John 1:1-18)

For this last day of the year the Church asks us to reflect on two readings from the world of John, the Evangelist.  Together they point to Jesus as the fulfillment of time.  He is “all in all.”

The first reading’s reference to “antichrists” should not be mistaken as a conspiracy of devils.  “Antichrists” here are fallen away members of the writer’s own community who might influence others to join them.  They have rejected the teaching of the apostles that Jesus is the Son of God who became human to redeem the world from sin. 

The gospel describes the same incarnation.  At the beginning of time, the Father by means of the Son, who is the Word, called the universe into existence.  One may call this moment the “Big Bang.”  In time “the Word became flesh” to give fellow humans life beyond physical life -- eternal life.

Now is a moment to examine our consciences about where we stand with Jesus Christ, the Word of God.  Have we drawn closer to him during this past year by putting into practice living his teaching?  Or have we loved ourselves more than him by putting our will ahead of his?  If we have followed the latter path, tomorrow we begin a new year to change our priorities.

Tuesday, December 30, 2025

 Sixth Day within the Octave of the Nativity of the Lord

 (I John 2:12-17; Luke 2:36-40)

Luke, the gospel writer, never tires of including women in his narrative.  After a shepherd looks for a lost sheep, a housewife searches for a lost coin.  Only Luke describes the women of Galilee who accompany Jesus and his disciples.  Today’s passage manifests this same sensibility.   After Simeon holds the baby Jesus in his arms, Anna sees him and praises God.

But Luke’s purpose is more than showing inclusiveness.  By presenting the two elderly Jews, Luke emphasizes that Jesus fulfills Old Testament expectations.  He reminds us that Jesus is part of the Jewish nation which God called as a people especially His own.  Luke also has a universal purpose in mind.  Because of Jesus, God’s people will not be limited to a single nation.  Jesus’ disciples will go to all the nations on earth to expand that people.

The Christian impulse is not just to believe in Jesus but to tell others about him.  The African-American spiritual Christmas carol “Go Tell It on the Mountain” displays this urge.  Being Christian means that we are saved.  We should want everyone we care about to experience Jesus’ salvation as well.

Monday, December 29, 2025

 

Memorial of Saint Thomas Becket, Bishop and Martyr

(II Timothy 2:8-13.3:10-12; Matthew 16:24-27)

The twentieth century poet T.S. Eliot wrote a play about today’s patron saint, Thomas Becket.  Titled Murder in the Cathedral, the play paints a vivid picture of the bishop-martyr’s final days.  A section called “Interlude” presents Archbishop Becket last sermon.  It is a tour de force combining a heightened spiritual consciousness with beautiful prose

Archbishop Becket is preaching his Christmas homily in his Canterbury cathedral.  He says that this Mass celebrates not only the birth of Christ but, being the Eucharist, his death as well.  For this reason, the archbishop proclaims, the occasion is one of both joy and sorrow.  There is joy, of course, because the Savior has come.  However, sorrow accompanies the joy because every Mass reenacts the death of Christ on the cross to atone for human sin.  Becket explains that the Church has placed the Feast of St. Stephen, the first martyr, on the day after Christmas so that Christians temper their celebration with a realization of their weakness.  Then the archbishop foretells his own martyrdom.

Most of us love Christmas.  Every year we look forward to its air of friendliness and generosity. But we must not allow the conviviality of the season to turn into debauchery.  Even more important, we should contemplate how full joy only comes from living the self-sacrificing love that Jesus Christ showed on the cross.

 

Sunday, December 28, 2025

 

THE FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY
(Sirach 3:3-7, 14-17; Colossians 3:12-21; Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23)

Let us begin our reflection today by turning our attention to the second reading. In the Letter to the Colossians, we are urged to put on love, “the bond of perfection.” The author wants “the word of Christ” — not the word of the street — to dwell within us. He further desires that everything we say and everything we do be done “in the name of the Lord Jesus.”

Sadly, many people are unaware of or ignore this guidance from on high. A journalist notes how hatred among races and religions has been increasing in our society. As evidence, he points to the behavior of a certain group of young people who, instead of showing disapproval or outrage, complacently allow remarks portraying Jews as dishonest. He also mentions another organization that failed to correct a member who described African-Americans in dehumanizing terms.

The journalist goes on to observe that such hateful discrimination is accompanied by the coarsening of everyday language. Today, vulgar words — especially those referring to sexual intimacy — are spoken aloud and tolerated, even in the parental home. And with far less reluctance than a generation ago, people suggest the inferiority of poor minorities. It is as if, in order to appear honest or authentic, one must expose the most primitive impulses of the human heart.

All of this coarse and degrading speech runs contrary to the teaching of Jesus Christ. In his saving work, Christ raised humanity to its highest dignity in history. He taught that it is more honorable to support the needy in their distress than to enrich oneself. A mother in a film expressed this truth simply: “There are two paths in life: the path of nature and the path of grace.” She continued saying that nature is self-centered and seeks control over everything, while grace opens outward in the gift of oneself.

Saint Joseph stands as a model of a life lived with grace. He speaks no offensive words in the Gospels; in fact, he speaks no words at all, because he is a man of righteous deeds rather than empty speech. Saint Joseph faithfully obeys God’s commands and instructions without complaint or delay. In today’s Gospel, he takes his family to Egypt during the massacre of the innocents; he returns when the persecution ends; and brings Jesus and Mary to Nazareth, where they can live in peace.

Jesus himself provides an even deeper example, because his grace goes far beyond outward imitation. Being God, he enters our hearts to transform them from within. He moves us in countless ways; let us mention just three. Grace enables us to grow in dignity and wisdom in the context of our families.  It strengthens us against the vices of greed and lust that tear families apart.  Finally, it increases our love for one another despite defects.  It is through this love purified by sacrifice that we catch a glimpse of God.

 

Friday, December 26, 2025

 

Feast of St. Stephen, proto-martyr

(Acts 6:8-10.7:54-59; Matthew 10:17-22)

“Is it an accident…,” St. Thomas Becket asks in his Christmas sermon according to playwright T.S. Eliot, “that the day of the first martyr follows immediately the day of the Birth of Christ?”  Not at all, he goes on to say.  Martyrdom is the design of God to draw humans back to the love which the birth of Christ reveals.  In other words, the Church proposes today’s Feast of St. Stephen, Protomartyr, as a reminder that Christ was born to die out of love for the world.

Although many households take down their Christmas lights today and stores haul out Valentine decorations, the Church does not intend that her members go back to life as usual.  Rather, she wants us to realize that we are being called deeper into the mystery of holiness.  This virtue does not shun the world but seeks to sanctify it. 

Celebrating what is good and expressing sorrow when the good is thwarted by evil, we show others God’s care for all.  Christmas festivities will continue until the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord.  We should temper them by understanding how material substances are readily corruptible while virtue lasts forever.

Thursday, December 25, 2025

 

Christmas 2025

Some of us have become so tired of electronic greeting cards that they have blocked their reception.  E-cards are invariably cute and, no doubt, most often well-intended. But their limited selection may result in tedium after we view the same card more than twice.  The other day, however, I received one that moved me to watch it time and again.

The card shows a newly born lamb idling into an empty country church on Christmas.  The lamb frolics in wonder as he senses the decorated pews.  As he comes to the manger in front of the altar, he notices the Christ-child sleeping.  The animal reposes next to the manger as a beam of sunlight shines on the altar’s small cross.  The presentation ends with a dove flying onto the scene. The bird takes a sip from to the baptismal fount on the side before perching herself on the manger of the sleeping child next to the lamb.

Is this just a sentimental Christmas greeting more appropriate for children than for adults?  I don’t think so.  It appears to me more like a parable making a profound theological statement.  The lamb does not come to adore the Christ like the shepherds in Luke’s gospel.  Nor does he offer a gift for the infant Jesus like the drummer boy in the popular Christmas song.  The lamb lies besides Christ because he is another Christ!

In the first chapter of John’s gospel John the Baptist points out Jesus to his disciples.  He tells them, “Behold, the Lamb of God.”  Jesus is the lamb who will be slaughtered to atone for human sin.  He will be baptized -- remember the dove sipping water from the font – as an identification with humankind. Today he comes in peace to allow the world to contemplate the Christ event in our lives.  We should take the opportunity to thank Christ for his coming among us.  We also want to ask his pardon for our pride and other sins.  Finally, we might pledge our love for him and for all those he died to save.

 

Wednesday, December 24, 2025

 

Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Advent (Mass in the Morning)

(II Samuel 7:1-5.18-12.14.16; Luke 1:67-79)

One would think that just after his son has been named, a father wants to say something about his future. In today’s gospel, Zechariah does that but only as parenthetical to the main character of his declaration.  Zechariah cannot but give priority to fulfilment of every Jewish heart – the coming of the Messiah.

Today’s reading from II Samuel tells of Nathan’s prophecy that a descendant of David will occupy his throne forever.  This promised ruler cannot be Solomon, who failed to keep faith with God and the people.  Jews set their hopes on a future Messiah, who will save them from their enemies.  Zachariah understands that he is coming soon although he is not his son John.  But John will have a central role in the Savior’s arrival.  He will be “the prophet of the Most High,” who will “give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins.”

We will celebrate the coming of the Messiah tonight at Mass.  Whether we are university presidents or sanitation workers, Jesús will present us salvation in his offering of self.  We may accept his love and, thereby, pass it on to others.  Or we may reject it to live -- somewhat uncomfortably - in our own little egotistic world.

Tuesday, December 23, 2025

 

Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Advent

(Malachi 3:1-4.23-24; Luke 1:57-66)

As the Advent season ends, the Church insists that the faithful continue to reflect on John the Baptist.  Today’s first reading tells of a “messenger” who is identified with Elijah, the prophet.  As Elijah slayed 450 prophets of the god Baal, the “new Elijah” will spur the people to forsake evil ways.  Once reformed, they will accept the coming Lord of hosts with peace and joy.

The gospel hints that the newborn son of Zachariah and Elizabeth is the “new Elijah”.  His name, John, means “God is gracious”; that is, God shows Himself gracious in two ways.  First, he has given the barren couple a child.  Second, He will endow that child with fiery conviction to turn minds and hearts to Himself. 

The reform begun with John’s preaching in the desert will end with Jesus’ preaching in Jerusalem.  The latter’s message, however, will be significantly different from the former’s.  Where John scared the unrepentant with fire and brimstone, Jesus promised blessing to those who repent.  It’s the familiar “stick or carrot” option.  Like the “good thief” with Jesus on Calvary, we want to recognize our sins and ask Jesus for mercy.

Monday, December 22, 2025

 

Monday of the Fourth Week of Easter

(I Samuel 1:24-28; Luke 1:46-56)

Curiously, it is not today’s first reading that finds fulfilment in the gospel but the responsorial psalm.  In it the same Hannah of the first reading sings of God’s exalting her lowly estate by blessing her with a child.  Mary says something very similar in the gospel canticle well-known by the Latin of its first word, “Magnificat.”  She proclaims the Lord for raising her from a lowly estate to blessedness.

Mary not only echoes Hannah; she also anticipates the beatitudes of Jesus.  In this same Gospel according to Luke, Jesus will say “Blessed are you who are poor” and “Woe to you who are rich.”  By projecting the thoughts of Jesus onto Mary, Luke intends to show her faithful discipleship.  As a true follower of the Lord, she not only says that Jesus is the Savior but also indicates how so.

We may wonder with Protestants if the Church does not overemphasize Mary.  It is true that some Catholics seem to make her part of the Godhead.  But Church teaching is certainly correct when it describes Mary as Jesus’ most faithful disciple.  She is rightly portrayed in official Church teaching as a model for all Christians.

Sunday, December 21, 2025

 

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

(Isaiah 7:10-14; Romans 1:1-7; Matthew 1:18-24)

Sixty years ago, the Second Vatican Council affirmed that the Church has the duty to “scrutinize the signs of the times and interpret them in the light of the Gospel.” Well, today a lamentable sign of the times is the crudeness and vulgarity in public affairs. Journalists often seek controversy when reporting on events. They emphasize differences between people, even when those differences are not truly important aspects of the matter. Some politicians never tire of hurling insults at those with whom they disagree. They prefer to humiliate their opponents rather than engage in dialogue with them to arrive at the truth. We are no longer surprised to hear social leaders use vulgarities and threats. The result of this public behavior has been an increasingly bitter social climate, leaving ordinary people confused and often adopting unfair positions.

In the United States, the issue of immigration has produced this kind of confusion and resentment. Millions of people have entered the country illegally or overstayed their visas. They have been called “undocumented” or “illegal immigrants.” Supporters of undocumented immigrants claim they have contributed to the good of the country and have not disproportionately monopolized social benefits. They describe opponents as intolerant and forgetful of the fact that their own ancestors came to this country as immigrants.

On the other hand, there are citizens who want undocumented immigrants deported. They argue that, in some areas, the cost of public services—such as schools—for illegal immigrants has become unbearable. They respond to the accusation of intolerance by saying that the United States is a desirable country to live in precisely because laws are expected to be obeyed. They add that their grandparents or great-grandparents did not break the law when they entered the country.

If the country wants to overcome this problem, honest dialogue among people with diverse perspectives is needed. Certainly, millions of immigrants cannot be deported without causing unacceptable damage to social stability. But neither can the continued abuse of immigration laws be tolerated.

Hostile behavior goes against our Christian heritage. The first page of the Bible teaches us that all men and women are made in the image of God. For this reason alone, we are due respect. Furthermore, Jesus encourages his disciples to treat even adversaries fairly. In the Sermon on the Mount, he tells us that we must love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (cf. Matthew 5:44).

We can take Saint Joseph, in today's Gospel, as a model of true justice. He lives according to both the spirit and the letter of God's Law. According to the spirit of the Law, he does not want to expose Mary to disgrace by revealing her pregnancy.  He will follow the letter of the Law by “divorc(ing) her quietly.”  And he does not hesitate to obey the Lord’s explicit command to receive her and her child into his home.

Instead of hurling insults at our adversaries, we Catholics should be the first to try to understand their points of view. We should presume their good intentions until clear evidence to the contrary emerges. Even then, we should try to convince them of the truth instead of condemning their opinions. When we practice justice, we bear witness to our faith in God.

This is precisely what the prophet Isaiah recommends to the king of Judah in the first reading. The powerful Assyrian Empire has set out to conquer the world. To halt its advance, the kingdoms of Samaria (Israel) and Syria want Judah to form an alliance with them. But King Ahaz of Judah chooses to ally himself with Assyria, despite the prophet's recommendation not to and to trust only in God. Isaiah offers as a sign of God's faithfulness that a virgin will give birth to a son, whose name will be Emmanuel, meaning "God with us."

This week we will welcome again Emmanuel, the King of kings and Prince of Peace. Part of our homage to the newborn King should be our commitment to live according to his law: seeking peace with justice for all, through love.

Friday, December 19, 2025

 

Monday of the Fourth Week of Easter

(I Samuel 1:24-28; Luke 146-56)

Curiously, it is not today’s first reading that finds fulfilment in the gospel but the responsorial psalm.  In it the same Hannah of the first reading sings of God’s exalting her lowly estate by blessing her with a child.  Mary says something similar in the gospel canticle well-known by the Latin of its first word, “Magnificat.”  She proclaims the Lord for raising her from a lowly estate to blessedness.

Mary not only echoes Hannah; she also anticipates the beatitudes of Jesus.  In this same Gospel according to Luke, Jesus will say “Blessed are you who are poor” and “Woe to you who are rich.”  By projecting the thoughts of Jesus onto Mary, Luke intends to show her faithful discipleship.  As a true follower of the Lord, she not only says that Jesus is the Savior but also indicates how so.

We may wonder with Protestants if the Church does not overemphasize Mary.  It is true that some Catholics seem to make her part of the Godhead.  But Church teaching is certainly correct when it describes Mary as Jesus’ most faithful disciple.  She is rightly portrayed in official Church teaching as a model for all Christians.

Thursday, December 18, 2025

 

Thursday of the Third Week of Advent

(Jeremiah 23:5-8; Matthew 1:18-25)

In today’s first reading Jeremiah tells of a coming king from the line of David.  He says that the king “’will do what is right and just.’”  In fact, he says, his name will be “’the Lord our justice.’”  Jeremiah further sees this king as bringing the citizens of Israel home from all the lands into which they been banished.

The Gospel of Matthew presents Jesus as the fulfilment of Jeremiah’s prophecy.  He is the cultural son of Joseph, a just man of the line of David.  Joseph shows himself to be just by both obeying the Law and by not exposing Mary to public shame.  Jesus will show himself as justice itself when he dies to justify all who believe in him.  In this way he retrieves people from sin’s banishment and brings them to Paradise.

The name “Jesus” literally means “Yahweh saves.”  He saves us the consequence of our sins.  Matthew also recognizes Jesus as “Emmanuel,” which means “God es with us.”  As Jesus will tell his disciples in the last verse of the gospel, he is with us “always until the close of the age.”

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

 

Wednesday of the Third Week of Advent

(Genesis 49:2.8-10; Matthew 1:1-17)

Today’s first reading from Genesis seems to predict the reign of King David.  He appears to be the mighty lion whom all Israel recognizes as king.  David did extend the boundaries of Israel to their greatest extent while he kept faith in the Lord.  Yet his scepter did depart from Judah. His kingdom did not last forever.

The evangelist Matthew indicates this fact in his genealogy of Jesus.  He notes that around the time of King Jechoniah Israel went into exile.  Matthew’s intention is to show how the prophecy of eternal kingship is fulfilled in Jesus of Nazareth.  In his gospel Matthew presents Jesus as of Judah’s line and the conqueror of death on behalf of his followers.  In the author’s eyes Jesus is the eternal king who will receive homage from all corners of the earth.

The reading of today’s Scripture begins our immediate preparation for Christmas.  In just eight days we will celebrate the birth of the One who commands our obeisance.  He will come to us in the usual ways – in the gospels, in followers of his law of love and, especially, in the Eucharist.  As we look forward to the celebration, let us reassert his claim on our faithfulness.

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

 

Tuesday of the Third Week of Advent

(Zephaniah 3:1-2.9-13; Matthew 21:28-32)

A woman prays often.  She has gone to daily mass and is no stranger to the rosary.  Like St. Monica, she asks the Lord to bring her children back to the Church.  She wonders whether her own devotion may be an impediment to her children finding God.  She knows that she can be proud as she always wants her own way.  So she has begun praying regularly the Jesus prayer: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, have mercy on me a sinner.”

This woman is practicing the reform indicated in both readings today.  As Zephaniah proclaims, she has recognized her pride and repented of it.  In doing so, she has made herself like the first son of Jesus’ parable.  She realizes that her efforts to live a holy life have not exempted her from sin and that she too must ask for mercy.

Next week we shall celebrate the birth of our Savior.  Jesus has come to us to save us from our sin.  We must embrace him as sinners always needing reform.  If we do not, at least for us he will have come in vain.

Monday, December 15, 2025

 

Monday of the Third Week of Advent

(Numbers 24:2-17.15-17a; Matthew 21:23-27)

“Dag” Hammarskjöld was a Swedish economist and diplomat who served as the second General Secretary of the United Nations.  After his tragic death over sixty years ago in a plane crash, a controversy arose regarding his place in history.  To many he was like St. Francis– one who confronted the powers of the world on behalf of the poor while living like a monk.  To others he was an activist troublemaker whose celibacy shielded homosexual practice.  One biography, written about a decade ago, correlated Hammarskjold’s journal Markings with a factual account of his life.  It strongly asserts the truth of the first evaluation. 

Hammarskjöld’s story reflects the controversy at the heart of today’s gospel.  Jesus is being harassed because he, in the terms of the late Pope Francis, is a “minister(s) of mercy above all.”  He dialogues with sinners so that they might appreciate God’s love for them.  He champions simple, good hearts who cannot follow the burdensome rules of the Pharisees.  When the Temple officials question his authority to act in these ways, Jesus deftly responds.  Discerning their devious intentions, he refuses to reply until they answer his compromising questions.  Unwilling to accept a loss of face among the people, the Jewish leaders temporarily withdraw their harassment.

Jesus has come to us as a pillar of justice.  Although he generally respects authority, he is not afraid to challenge it when necessary for the good of all.  During this Advent-Christmas season, we welcome him as the beacon of justice and the Prince of Peace. 

Sunday, December 14, 2025

 

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT

(Isaiah 35:1-6,10; James 5:7-10; Matthew 11:2-11)

An ancient tradition calls this third Sunday of Advent “Gaudete Sunday.” Gaudete is Latin for “rejoice.” Now is a time to rejoice because we have reached the midpoint of our waiting for Christmas. For this reason, the priest and deacon wear rose-colored vestments, not the penitential purple of the other Sundays of Advent.

Usually, it’s the second reading that presents the theme of joy on this Sunday, but not this year. We hear the prophet Isaiah in the first reading tell the people of Israel, “Rejoice.” The second reading, from the Letter of James, again encourages the Christian people to be patient in waiting for the Lord. I would like to explore this theme of patient hope once more.

We Christians have been waiting for the Lord since his resurrection from the dead. We want him to vindicate us for lives of honesty, generosity, and chastity. Our hopes of seeing him are lifted when we hear phrases like “…is near” in the reading from James. We ask ourselves, “When will he arrive?” Clearly, the people to whom James wrote had the same concern. That is why he exhorts them: “Be patient…” It is true that Jesus Christ will return because he has said so. But the day and the hour, as he also says, “…no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (24:36).

Patience disposes us to suffer and endure present evils. Waiting is not the worst evil, but we certainly don't like it. In fact, waiting inclines us to commit regrettable acts. You can see impatient drivers on the roads risking their lives and the lives of others by weaving in and out of traffic. Other impatient drivers curse cautious ones, sometimes scandalizing themselves as well as their passengers.

At the root of our dislike for waiting is the tendency to think of ourselves as more important than others. We don't want to endure any inconvenience because we believe ourselves to be superior. We even have difficulty seeing God as more important. We should have learned from our mothers that the world doesn't revolve around us, but around God. As Creator and Sustainer of the universe, we must submit to His will. We can hardly expect Him to submit to ours.

In the Bible, God regularly commands patience. He made Noah wait not just forty but three hundred seventy-one days in the ark with a multitude of smelly animals. He allowed Job to suffer countless severe hardships. As James mentions in today’s reading, the prophets had to suffer terribly with patience. Elijah, for example, had to flee from King Ahab's vengeance, nearly succumbing along the way. Likewise, Jeremiah was thrown into a muddy well in an attempt on his life.

Patience allows us to suffer until we recognize our dependence on God for salvation. It enables us to see that our efforts cannot rescue us from death; only God can do that. It is our faith, purified by suffering endured with patience, that firmly connects us to Him. This reminds me of the film "The Hustler," made years ago.  A young pool player challenges the reigning champion to a game. He loses spectacularly but learns from his defeat. The next time he faces the champion, the young player becomes the new champion. As St. Paul tells the Corinthians, the young man wins "only a crown that withers."  By waiting patiently for Christ, however, we win "an incorruptible crown" (1 Corinthians 9:25).

We may not see Christ's return in the flesh this year. But this does not mean that He will not soon reward our sacrifices to live honest, generous, and chaste lives. He comes to us in every Mass and—one might say—particularly at the Mass on Christmas. There in the midst of our loved ones the peace and joy we experience assure us that our sacrifices are worthwhile. They are absolutely worthwhile.

Friday, December 12, 2025

 

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

(Zechariah 2:14-17; Revelation 11:19a.12:1-6.10ab; Luke 1:39-47)

By the Incarnation God became a human in order to raise all humans from sin and death.  It was a singular act that cannot be duplicated.  However, today we celebrate another act of God which resembles in a way the achievement of the Incarnation.  He sent His mother, the Virgin of Guadalupe, to lift up the downtrodden indigenous people of Mexico.

To appreciate the magnitude of this incarnation-like event, we must remember the state of the Mexican nation in 1531.  Ten years previous, the might Aztec nation was defeated by a force of only a few hundred Spanish soldiers.  Of course, it was a plague, which the militia unknowingly carried, that did the most damage.  The people were left powerless but defiant.  They largely wanted no part in the Spaniards’ culture.

 Then the Virgin appeared to Juan Diego Cuauhtlatotzin, one of the few indigenous Catholic converts.  She sent him to the Bishop of Mexico with the order to build a church in her honor.  It was not to be constructed in the city among the rich and influential but in the country where the poor, indigenous people resided.  By “church” she meant not only a physical structure but, more importantly, a community of believers.  When the former was completed, the native people converted en masse.    

By our celebration today we remember not only the appearance of the Our Lady of Guadalupe to the Mexican people, but also God’s lifting of all people who have been beaten down.  Whether humans suffer from disease, war, natural disaster, or poverty, God comes to their aid.  Mary identifies herself with a similar intervention of mercy in today’s gospel.  She openly declares that God has visited her in her humble estate so that she might proclaim his greatness.

Thursday, December 11, 2025

 

Thursday of the Second Week of Advent

(Isaiah 41:13-20; Matthew 11:11-15)

John the Baptist was a fiery preacher in his time.  His reputation was like Jesus’.  But how is he to be considered in relation to the Lord?  Let’s take a look at the Scriptures today.

Isaiah’s vision in the first reading suggests that John was like a threshing sledge that separates grain from its stalk and husk.  John’s preaching is a call to judgment.  It separates good people from the bad -- the useful from the waste.  Jesus has another role.  He gathers the good together, heals them of whatever they suffered in the threshing, and forms them into a church community.  He is like the football coach who takes young athletes and through knowledge and inspiration molds them into a winning team.

We form Jesus’ well-trained team.  We have been tested and instructed to announce the Kingdom of God.  Our words -- never too critical and always very hopeful -- give testimony to the sacrifice and the glory of the Lord Jesus.  He is the one to be followed to have a truly wonderful life.

Wednesday, December 10, 2025

 

Wednesday of the Second Week of Advent

(Isaiah 40:25-31; Matthew 11:28-30)

Most of the people who started Christmas shopping early probably feel fatigued these days.  There are so many people to please and so many options to consider that shoppers are bound to grow weary.  Purchasing gifts online has eased the burden.  Of course, buying gifts cards is a way out of the hustle.  Jesus in the gospel today proposes another solution.

He tells the people not to worry.  Their concerns about pleasing one another, even about procuring the necessities of life will be relieved when they rely on him.  “Take my yoke upon you,” he says, “and learn from me.”  His yoke is the law of love – to love God above all and to love one’s neighbor as oneself.  Sharing simple joys with God and neighbor – and not trying to ingratiate oneself with lavish gifts – results in a peaceful life.

Christmas shopping has become a mania that has compromised the meaning of Christmas.  Black Friday attracts more interest than Good Friday.  But Jesus did not come to supplement our wardrobes, much less to jumpstart the economy.  He came to free us from selfishness.  When we spend more time with him in thankful prayer and with others in friendly festivity, we come to know why God became human.

Tuesday, December 9, 2025

 Optional Memorial of Saint Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin

(Isaiah 40:1-11; Matthew 18:12-14)

Picture Mexican natives in the year 1530.  The majority had been endlessly targeted by mighty Aztec warriors seeking blood to propitiate their ruthless gods.  Then even the Aztecs were ravaged by the advent of Spanish conquistadors.  With virulent plagues and firearms they laid waste the tribes of Mexico.

Then in 1531, as if they were the lost sheep in Jesus’ parable today and she the brave shepherd, God sent the Virgin of Guadalupe to rescue the native people.  With the assistance of St. Juan Diego Cuaulatoatzín, she signaled the birth of a mixed-race people.  The new nation incorporated Spain’s Christianity and native devotion in a people both simpatico and strong. 

It is said that Pope St. John Paul II returned to Mexico five times because of his high regard and deep affection for the Mexican people.  Like Juan Diego, their forerunner, they not only proudly proclaim Christ the King but also cherish the Virgin of Guadalupe, his holy Mother.

Monday, December 8, 2025

 

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

(Genesis 3:9-15.20; Ephesians 1:3-6.11-12; Luke 1:26-38)

Today’s reading from Genesis indicates the principal effect of sin.  It places the sinner outside of God’s governance, which is to say His care.  Adam, perhaps aware that his sin deserves some kind of punishment, hides from God.  God cannot reach him to provide what will be a painful treatment but in the end restorative of a right relationship.

Once the man and the woman acknowledge their sin, God activates treatment.  They will be isolated, but their descendants will gradually walk in God’s company.  The remedy reaches fulness in Jesus Christ.  His death on the cross provides not just example but, more critically, efficacious grace to see God.

Today we celebrate a critical juncture in the saga of humanity’s return to God’s favor.  Mary, who will mother Jesus, is herself conceived without a trace of isolation from God.  She will freely choose at every moment of her life to please the Lord.  For God’s favor to her and also her faithful response, we honor her today.

Sunday, December 7, 2026

 

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT 
(Isaiah 11:1–10; Romans 15:4–9; Matthew 3:1–12)

Today is the Second Sunday of Advent. It may also be called “John the Baptist Sunday.” Every year on this day the Gospel highlights John the Baptist. This year we read the presentation of John in the desert according to Matthew. Next year John is presented according to Mark, and in 2027 according to Luke. In none of these years do we hear the voice of Jesus on this Second Sunday, although his presence always permeates the background.

The biographical information about John comes mostly from the Gospel of Luke. He was born the son of the priest Zechariah and his barren wife Elizabeth. By God’s command he was named “John,” which means “Yahweh is merciful.” Aside from Mary and Joseph, John was the first to recognize Jesus as Lord. When Mary, pregnant with Jesus, visited her relative Elizabeth, who carried John in her womb, John leapt to honor him. After his birth, Zechariah predicted that he would go before the Lord to prepare his ways. John lived as an ascetic in the desert, surviving only on locusts and wild honey.

In today’s reading John is proclaiming the coming of the Messiah. “Repent,” he says, “for the Kingdom of God is at hand.” According to Jewish tradition, the Messiah would inaugurate the eternal Kingdom of God. John looks upon him with the greatest reverence when he proclaims, “I am not even worthy to carry his sandals.” Like Jesus, John finds the Sadducees and Pharisees guilty of hypocrisy. He calls them a “brood of vipers,” although he does not consider them beyond hope. If they repent, John  will baptize them with water as a sign of their intention to live righteously. However, for those who do not truly repent, John will leave them for the Messiah to burn with fire.

Matthew continues developing John’s story with his baptism of Jesus, his arrest, and his death. When Jesus presents himself to be baptized, John hesitates, saying that he should be baptized by Jesus. Yet when Herod Antipas arrests him, John shows some doubt that Jesus is the Messiah. He expected a Messiah who would burn sinners, but Jesus prefers to talk and even to eat with them. This is why John sends two disciples to ask him: “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” Jesus does not give them a direct answer. He says: “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight and the lame walk; lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear; the dead are raised and the Good News is proclaimed to the poor.”

We do not know whether John went to his executioner convinced that Jesus truly is the Messiah. Perhaps he did, since Matthew includes the story of his death in his Gospel. Certainly the Church understands John this way by telling his story during Advent  as testimony of the coming of the Savior. In doing so, the Church gives us the opportunity to reaffirm our faith in Jesus.

People everywhere raise objections to belief. Some Jews do not believe because, according to them, when the Messiah comes everything will change. But deceit, theft, and homicide continue. Others do not believe because Jesus’ return has taken twenty centuries, and even now we see no sign that he is coming soon. Still others do not believe because they see Christians—supposedly formed by the Gospel—conducting themselves morally like anyone else. In other words, they see most Christians as hypocrites, not living as redeemed people.

In favor of Christ as Messiah we have his legacy, as deep as it is wide. His teaching is sound and beneficial. His followers now span the entire earth. His benefit to the world has been immense—from feeding the poor to educating civic leaders. Another reason is the testimony of those who claimed to have seen Jesus risen from the dead. In almost every case they gave their lives to proclaim what they had seen. Finally, there is our own experience. Who among us has not asked for Jesus’ help and received it, not only once, but many times?

The fact that Jesus has not manifested his lordship in a spectacular way to everyone is not necessarily an impediment to belief. It may instead be seen as a sign of God’s consistency. Since the time of Abraham, God has asked men and women for the assent of faith. He has endowed us with free will to accept Jesus as God’s full revelation or to reject him. We humans must choose for or against Jesus as Lord and live in harmony with that decision. It is the most significant question of our lives.

Saturday, December 6, 2025

 

Saturday of the First Week of Advent

(Isaiah 30:19-21.23-26; Matthew 9:35-10:1.5a.6-8)

As we all know, in May Robert Prevost was elected pope and chose the name Leo XIV.  He was formerly a missionary in Perú where he was made bishop.  As a missionary and now as pope, Robert Prevost is part of the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy in today’s first reading.

Isaiah looks forward to the great “Day of the Lord.”  He says that on that day the cries of the holy people of Jerusalem will be answered.  They will see their Teacher, who will guide them.  Jesus does just that, but not alone.  As the gospel today makes clear, Jesus is assisted by his disciples.  They will go in his name to proclaim the Kingdom of God.

We should not consider Jesus’ mission completed.  Rather we should see a role for us in that mission.  Like Robert Prevost, Pope Leo XIV, we are sent beyond our family and friends to bring to others a word of hope.  We may not arrive in foreign lands, but there are many needing relief and encouragement where we live.

 

Friday, December 5, 2025

 

Friday of the First Week of Advent

(Isaiah 29:17-24; Matthew 8:27-31)

Jesus’ fulfillment of the Isaian prophecy is easily seen today.  In the first reading Isaiah predicts that in “a very little while ... the eyes of the blind shall see.”  In the gospel Jesus gives sight to the two blind men who put their faith in him.  The blind men call Jesus “’Son of David’” because they see him as the long-awaited eternal king of Israel.

Jesus prompts their confession of faith with his question, “’Do you believe that I can do this (make the blind see).’”  The question and response indicate that faith not only leads to sight but is itself a way of seeing.  Followers of Jesus believing that he will give them eternal life also have this mysterious way of seeing.

The sight of faith discerns that the self or ego is not what is ultimately important.  My strength will eventually wither as will my intelligence and any moral capacity I have.  It further shows that I can depend on Jesus, physically through the Church and spiritually through the infinite means at his disposal.

Thursday, December 4, 2025

 

Thursday of the First Week of Advent

(Isaiah 26:1-6; Matthew 7:21.24-27)

Today’s reading from the prophet Isaiah resembles the Canticle of Mary in the Gospel of Luke. Like Isaiah  Mary proclaims the mighty tumbling down and the poor being exulted.  Both biblical texts find fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

Today’s gospel concludes Jesus’ momentous Sermon on the Mount.  In it Jesus echoes Isaiah by saying that his words are like rock.  Followers can safely base their lives on them. He emphasizes, however, that following requires more than calling him by name or – it might be added – reading his words.  No, following Jesus means to imitate his love and mercy.

During Advent we who have heeded Jesus’ words await the manifestation of his glory.  We hope to see narcotraffickers upended and poor children liberated from abuse and violence.  We also pledge to allow his teaching to purify our minds and hearts.

Wednesday, December 3, 2025

Memorial of Saint Francis Xavier, priest

(Isaiah 25:6-10a; Matthew 15:29-37)

In today’s first reading Isaiah envisions an international banquet at the end of time.  Typically, the prophet sees it taking place on the holy mountain where Jerusalem sits.  Those who have learned the ways of God are honored with foods worthy of the tables of kings.  Partakers of this feast have no reason to be sad because God has destroyed death.

Jesus fulfills Isaiah’s vision in today’s gospel.  He calls all kinds of people for a gathering on a mountain in Galilee.  There he teaches them God’s ways.  The diverse learners are not from all the nations of the world but from all sectors of Israeli society.  They include “the blind, deformed and the mute.”  At the end of his lessons Jesus hosts a feast.  Participants have all the bread and fish that they want.  It is a foretaste of the supper in which Jesus will share with his disciples the bread of eternal life.

St. Francis Xavier worked as hard as anyone to realize Isaiah’s vision and to make available Jesus’ supper. As a Jesuit, a companion of Jesus, he traveled to the nations of the East making disciples.  He modeled for us the willingness to leave our comfort zones to extend Christ’s love to diverse peoples. 

Tuesday, December 2, 2025

 Tuesday of the First Week in Advent

(Isaiah 11:1-10; Luke 10:21-24)

A short story entitled “Attitude Adjustment” tells of a priest who gets hit by a train while driving.  Father Jim survived the crash because somehow he failed to clasp his seatbelt and was thrown from the car.  He was left a mess, of course.  His face was racked and his brain discombobulated. During his recuperation Fr. Jim made many mistakes from a loss of perspective.  The bishop had to retire him to doing children’s liturgies. 

At the end of the story the priest reads the parable of the Good Samaritan.  When he finishes, he asks the children why God permitted the Jewish man to get beat up so badly.  One six-year-old answers that God wanted to teach the man a lesson for hating Samaritans.  He says that the man needed an “attitude adjustment.”  Then the children start asking Fr. Jim about what had happened to him.  They show him healing concern as if they were all the Balm of Gilead wrapped in children’s clothing.  No doubt, Fr. Jim now realizes why the accident happened and why his life was spared.  God allows such tragedies so that people might look into the eyes of a stranger and find a friend.  Furthermore, God wants His children to act as healing balm to one another.

In today’s gospel Jesus cites children as understanding God’s gracious will.  He indicates that they know more than the wise and learned know how we should show concern for others.  In Advent more than preparing for Christmas, we are waiting for Jesus to come to judge us.  We know that he will give a thumbs up if we work to heal the wounds of those who are hurting.  If we require an attitude adjustment, let it be.  We have to work to heal the wounds of those who are hurting.