Tuesday of the Third Week of Lent
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
Monday, March 9, 2026
Monday of the Third Week of Lent
(II Kings 5:1-5ab; Luke 4:24-30)
It may seem odd, but Jesus is speaking to us when he preaches
repentance. We know that it is a vital
message for drug dealers, Internet trawlers, and the porn industry. But we may not think that it applies to
ordinary sinners like you and me. After all,
our contempt, lustful suspicions, dismissive remarks, and slothful habits don’t
do much harm, do they?
In today’s gospel when Jesus does not perform a wonderwork
for his compatriots of Nazareth, they show no interest in his call to
reform. He tries to open their eyes with
stories of the prophets of old. Still
they pay him no heed. He warns that rejection
will cause him to reach out to others as did Elijah and Elisha. Jesus’ scenario will be realized after his death
and resurrection. Having been mostly spurned
by the Jewish nation, Jesus’ apostles will turn to Gentiles with his
message.
Hopefully, we are doing better than the Nazoreans in
listening to Jesus. Heeding his call to
reform this Lent, we look for the good in others, pray to keep our chastity, and
get on top of our work. Lent was not
meant to be easy, but the struggle will bring us closer to the One near whom we
want to be.
Sunday, March 8, 2026
THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT
(Exodus 17:3–7; Romans 5:1–2, 5–8; John 4:5–42)
Today’s Gospel highlights the encounter between Jesus and
the famous “woman at the well.” It is so important for the catechumenate that
it may be read every year on the Third Sunday of Lent. It describes a dynamic
of the spiritual life: how Jesus, the Good Shepherd, seeks out the lost sheep
in order to give her eternal life.
Jesus is alone as he waits for the Samaritan woman at the
well. He wants to speak with her about her life. When she arrives, Jesus does
not hesitate to begin the conversation. But he does not start by referring to
sin. Rather, he says, “Give me a drink.” It is a reasonable request at noon in
a dry land. For her, however, it is an unexpected remark. She is a woman, a
stranger, and from a rival nation—that is, the kind of person with whom
respectable Jews would not speak directly. Yet what concerns Jesus is not her
sociological profile but her soul.
The fact that the woman comes alone indicates her isolation.
The other women probably avoid her because she lives in sin. But she is not
unintelligent. She confidently replies to Jesus that it is not customary for a Jew to
ask something of a Samaritan woman. Then Jesus raises the level of the
conversation. He moves it from the physical to the spiritual by offering her
“living water.” He explains that living water not only satisfies thirst forever
but also brings eternal life. But she—whether because she cannot imagine the
grace symbolized by baptismal water or because she is mocking him—asks for this
water so that she will not have to return to the well each day.
Now Jesus addresses the woman’s sin. He reveals that she has
been married several times and is currently living with a man outside of
marriage. Uncomfortable speaking about her personal life, she tries to change
the subject to religion. She notes that Samaritans and Jews worship in
different places. Jesus then offers her the way to overcome these differences
and to worship God “in spirit and in truth.” This expression should be understood
as referring to the Spirit of Truth—that is, the Holy Spirit. Jesus is offering
her the Holy Spirit, who is the source of grace.
The grace of the Holy Spirit is to the spiritual life what
water is to natural life. Just as water removes toxins from the body, grace
forgives sins. Just as water carries nutrients to body members, grace enlivens
the whole body to give praise to God. And just as water regulates temperature
to sustain bodily processes, grace moderates the passions so that a person may
seek God.
When the woman says that the Messiah will bring perfect worship,
Jesus identifies himself as that Messiah. She accepts him and, like a good
disciple, she goes to tell everyone about him. She leaves her water jar behind
because she is no longer concerned about natural water, having received
supernatural water from Jesus.
All of us are like the Samaritan woman—not only because we
sin, but also because we try to satisfy our deepest desires with material
things. Yet since God has made us for himself, those desires cannot be
satisfied by BMWs, champagne, or European vacations. Our deepest desires are to
know that we are truly loved, to have the awareness of having done what is
good, and to possess the assurance of salvation. To attain all this, we need
the grace of the Holy Spirit. Grace springs forth in the waters of Baptism and
grows to help us face life’s challenges through the other sacraments. Grace
gives us eternal life, strengthens us, and directs us toward God. Do you know
of anything in life more valuable than the grace of the Holy Spirit?
Saturday, March 7, 2026
Saturday of the Second Week of Lent
(Micah 7:14-15.18-20; Luke 15:1-3.11-32)
People usually contrast the two sons in the “Parable of the
Prodigal.” One is older; the other,
younger. One leaves his father; the
other stays home. One squanders his
fortune; the other is as tight as a clam.
And so on. Perhaps readers might profitably compare the brothers’ similarities. They have the same father. They also have the same sense of
privilege. Both believe that the inheritance
is his by right, not by the father’s will.
And both spurn their father. One
leaves him as if he were dead. The other
refuses to call him “father” when he hosts a party at his son’s return. Finally, both are stymied by pride. The younger when he hesitates to return home
after spending his money. The older by refusing
to recognize his chastened brother.
In noting the similarities, we should not fail to see their
common traits in ourselves. We likely
think in terms of rights and privileges.
Many of us are not above claiming our rights and forgetting our
responsibilities to others. We too often
allow pride to blind us from doing what is right.
The turning point in the parable comes when the younger son
contemplates the lot of the pigs that he is forced to deal with. He sees that the pigs have food and that he
doesn’t. He likely notices as well how
the pigs eat in filth and fight among themselves for more pods to eat. The young man then “comes to his senses.” He remembers that on his father’s farm there
is food aplenty. He should realize also
that he is a human being, and not a pig.
As such, he should not behave like them but emulate the best of his kind. He seems to do so when he overcomes his pride
and returns to his father with a confession on his lips.
The parable ends without saying whether the elder son comes
to the same realization. As the father
offers this son a chance to repent of his anger against his brother, God offers
us an opportunity to curb our pride and selfishness during Lent.
Friday, March 6, 2026
Friday of the Second Week of Lent
(Genesis 37:3-4.12-13a.17b-28a; Matthew 21:33-43;45-46)
Today’s gospel signals a change in direction for the season
of Lent. Its “parable” is very much an allegory,
a one-for-one representation of the players in a historical event. Rather than promote Lenten discipline, the
allegory looks forward to Christ’s coming passion, resurrection, and ascension.
In the allegory the landowner is God the Father, who established
the Kingdom of Israel, represented by the vineyard. The tenants are Jewish leaders, who exploit their
positions by not leading the people to holiness. When the owner sends his servants, who are
the prophets in salvation history, the tenants mistreat and even kill them. Finally, the vineyard owner sends his only son,
that is Jesus, Son of God. The vicious
tenants kill him also in attempt to acquire the owner’s legacy. Finally, the owner takes the land from the
original tenants and gives it to others.
These are the members of the Church, the New Israel.
As members of the Church, we must not think that the rules God
establishes for the Jewish leaders do not apply to us. We too are expected to help one another (of
course, this goes double for bishops and priests) to attain holiness. We do this by encouraging prayer and upright
living among one another. We also seek
to improve the lives of those living at the margins so that they too may prosper. Finally, we reach out to the people of other faith
traditions to tell them of our Father’s love in Jesus Christ.
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Thursday of the Second Week of Lent
(Jeremiah 17:5-10; Luke 16:19-31)
Ludwig Beethoven along with many others felt that Napoleon
Bonaparte would bring the values of democracy to all of Europe. Beethoven wrote his third symphony in honor
of the French general, entitling it “Bonaparte.” But when Napoleon crowned himself emperor,
Beethoven tore up the title page and renamed the work “The Eroica” after the
ideals which Napoleon abandoned.
Jeremiah in today’s first reading feels a similar disillusionment.
The prophet, who experienced much hope and disappointment
with Judah’s leaders, writes that placing one’s hope in human beings is
fruitless. Indeed, he likens such hope
to a shrub in a desert that cannot produce fruit. Jeremiah finds salvation in following the
ways of God, which are truthful and, in the end, productive of human flourishing.
Jesus’ parable of the “Rich Man and Lazarus” provides
testimony to Jeremiah’s conclusion. The
rich man ignores God’s Law which extols almsgiving. He also violates the wisdom of the prophets
who railed against neglect of the poor. In
our prosperity we better take heed of the rich man’s fate and help protect the vulnerable.
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Wednesday of the Second Week of Lent
(Jeremiah 18:18-20; Matthew 20:17-28)
As we approach the middle of Lent, we may find our initial Lenten resolutions losing traction. It is a parallel process to the capitulations found in today’s readings. In the first, the people are unwilling to accept Jeremiah’s teaching that allegiance is to God alone. They want to dally with other gods as a way of hedging their bets on divine assistance. In the gospel no one seems to grasp what Jesus is saying about self-sacrifice for the good of others. James and John allow their mother to promote their advancement. Meanwhile, the other disciples resent the brothers for reducing their chances for places of honor.
During Lent the Lord seeks our conversion from the ways of the world to the virtues of the Kingdom. Where the world says “look out for number one,” Jesus tells us to “lose our lives for his sake and for the gospel.” We have to renew our efforts continually so that we will always serve others joyfully.
The saints model Jesus’ self-abnegation for good of others. Stanley Rother was an American priest defending the rights of the indigenous in Guatemala during the 1970’s and early 1980’s. He was threatened with death if he did not leave his parish. In fact, he tried going away but made the realization that, as he said, “A shepherd cannot run from his flock.” He returned to Guatemala where, shortly afterwards, gunmen entered his rectory and killed him. As a martyr, he did not need a miracle to be declared “Blessed Stanley.”
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Tuesday of the Second Week of Lent
(Isaiah 1:10.16-20; Matthew 23:1-12)
After scoring the winning goal at the Olympics last week, hockey
star Jack Hughes said that he was proud to be an American. He meant that he was grateful to be part of a
nation that values sportsmanship and excellence. There is nothing sinful about this kind of
pride. It is a love of self and of one’s
loyalties based on truth.
Pride at the same time can be a vice. In fact, it has been called the mother of all
evil. Sinful pride ignores the truth by
an exaggerated assessment of one’s own virtue.
Its love of self goes beyond all warrants as it seeks to garner everyone’s
admiration. Jesus accuses the Pharisees
of this inordinate love in today’s gospel.
He says that they love to wear pretentious clothing, to use misleading
titles, and to seek undeserving places of honor.
As our human legacy, all of us are touched by sinful pride. From the president of the republic to a Mississippi
sharecropper, we tend to think of ourselves as greater than what we are. In
today’s first reading the prophet Isaiah tells us that we might overcome this vice
even if we have exploited it a thousand times.
His antidote is to ingest the word of God. Isaiah says that if we obey God’s commands,
we might enjoy all the goodness that life offers. Jesus tells us the goodness includes eternal
happiness. But if we do not obey, however,
Isaiah warns our pride will lead us to everlasting conflict.
Monday, March 2, 2026
Monday of the Second Week of Lent
(Daniel 9:4b-10; Luke 6:36-38)
Facing a rule that interferes with their designs, workers
with a kind-hearted supervisor are tempted to violate the rule. They may rationalize their transgression saying,
“It is easier to get forgiveness that permission.” Perhaps it is true, but still it is
dishonorable to presume a supervisor’s mercy.
In today’s gospel Jesus extols the virtue of mercy. He calls it God-like and then describes it as
non- judging, forgiving, generous and productive. However, he never says that mercy should be presumed. To the contrary, he indicates that it should
be initiated.
Lent should render us more merciful. It gives us occasion to recall our sins like
Daniel does in the first reading. Conscious
of how easy falling into sin is, we should be more willing to forgive those who
offend us.
Sunday, March 1, 2026
Second Sunday of Lent
(Genesis 12:1–4; 2 Timothy 1:8–10; Matthew 17:1–9)
We have reached the Second Sunday of Lent. Each year on this
day we hear in the Gospel the account of Jesus’ Transfiguration on the
mountain. There are three versions of this event: one in Matthew, one in Mark,
and one in Luke, but they do not differ greatly from one another. Today we hear
the version according to Saint Matthew. It is distinctive in that it does not
say that Peter “did not know what he was saying” when he suggests building
three tents for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah.
Perhaps we ask ourselves: “Why do the evangelists include
this rather unusual story in their writings?” Usually, three reasons are given.
First, the story confirms Peter’s declaration that Jesus is “the Christ, the
Son of the living God.” Second, it will help the disciples endure the anguish
of seeing Jesus crucified. Finally, it gives believers a glimpse of their
destiny. Like Christ, they too will shine in glory. Today we will focus on this
third reason: the parallel transformation of the Christian like the glorified
Christ.
Let us begin with the first reading. It shows Abram being
instructed by the Lord to leave his country, his relatives, and his father’s
house to go to a foreign land. Only through these costly sacrifices can he come
to shine as the father of many nations. It is true that the grace of the Holy
Spirit, which makes Christians shine in glory, is a gift. Nevertheless, it
requires sacrifices to receive and preserve it, as in the case of Abram. Many
prepare, sometimes for years, in classes for sacraments that communicate
transforming grace. The sacrifices multiply as they live in the world where
temptations abound. They must reject the seduction of pleasure, power, and
prestige if they are to shine in glory.
In the second reading, Paul asks his disciple Timothy to
join him in suffering for the Gospel. He wants his help in the demanding work
of bringing the Gospel to the world. The first Christians received grace freely,
but proclaiming it cost the apostles dearly. If the followers of the Gospel
will shine like the face of Jesus on the mountain, those who proclaim it will
shine even more. It is no accident that saints are depicted with halos in art.
Our faces too will bear the radiance of the saints if we talk with others about
the Good News.
The Gospel account of the Transfiguration leaves us with a
profound lesson about the spiritual life. Toward the end of the story, the
three disciples experience a theophany: God the Father speaks to them from a
cloud. His message is almost the same as at Jesus’ Baptism, but this time He
adds the exhortation that they listen to Jesus. As is to be expected in a
theophany, the disciples fall to the ground in fear. Then Jesus’ touch calms
them.
The spiritual life requires that we feel awe in the presence
of God. He is tremendous and awesome, more powerful than a volcano or a star
being born. Yet, through the assurance given to us by Jesus, we know that God
is our Father. Once we realize this truth and submit our will to His, our fear
is transformed into the desire never to lose His love.
We have completed a fourth of this Lenten season. By now we
should have established a pattern of fasting, prayer, and charity, so that we
no longer feel apprehension about these practices. Let us move forward with the
hope of becoming stronger through our sacrifices, more devoted to proclaiming
the Gospel to others, and more deeply in love with God, our Father.
Friday, February 27, 2026
Friday of the First Week of Lent
(Ezekiel 18:21-28; Matthew 5:20-26)
Children have difficulty comprehending the message in today’s
reading from the prophet Ezekiel. They see
not forgiving the offense of someone who has always lived virtuously as
unfair. Before one agrees with them, she
should realize that children are, by definition, young. They don’t have a treasury of memories for
which continual thankfulness to God is due.
God will reject the sinner, even if he has priorly lived an exemplary
life, for not having expressed gratitude with increasing virtue.
Childishness is also behind the rebellion that causes a
person to call a brother or sister “fool.”
Children often act out when they do not get their way because they have
not yet learned how to control their emotions.
They think that they have a right to express what they feel inside. Maturing, especially under the guidance of
the Holy Spirit, should temper their rebellious ways.
The season of Lent aids the maturing process. It is a time of intense reflection on our
actions and our lives. We are to recall God’s
beneficence and to respond with gratitude. We are also to review our
relationships and to reconcile ourselves with anyone we have mistreated.
Thursday, February 26, 2026
Thursday of the First Week of Lent
(Esther C,12.14-16.23-25; Matthew 7:7-12)
One major quality of the Christian life is dependency. Because this word is so associated with
addiction, perhaps it is better to speak of reliance. Although many find it hard to admit,
Christians rely on one another and primarily on God for assistance. They realize that they have been saved from death
by the Cross and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Without him they are doomed to sin egregiously and to die forever.
Although Queen Esther In today’s first reading is not
Christian and has lived apart from her Jewish community, she finds herself desperately
needing God’s help. She cannot depend on
her extraordinary beauty or her rank as queen to deliver her and her people
from death. She does what Jesus
recommends in the gospel. She asks the
God of her fathers for assistance. Of course,
she receives it. God, loving her and her
people, will not allow them to perish.
Why then do we often find prayers of petition difficult to
make? Perhaps we recognize personal sin that
makes us think we are unworthy. Or maybe
the independent spirit of our society prompts us to keep searching for personal
resources to meet challenges. We might even
doubt that God exists or that He cares about us. These reasons and, no doubt, others may be
summed up in pride. In the end, it is
our thinking too much of ourselves that gets in the way of asking God for help.
We need to humble ourselves and look to
God and perhaps brothers and sisters in Christ for help.
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Wednesday of the First Week of Lent
(Jonah 3:1-10; Luke 3:29-32)
We are all sinners – one out of every one of us. We think too much of ourselves and too little
of others. Have you ever said something derogatory
and only half-true about another person just to produce a laugh? I have.
It is one source of my sinfulness.
During this season of Lent we make a collective effort to
examine our lives, locate the sources of our sinfulness and decide to root them
out. With this effort we hope to become more
like Jesus. He is the best model for lives
which please God and bless others.
Both readings today convey this message. The Book of the Prophet Jonah is neither oracle
nor history, but a story intended to catalyze repentance. In the gospel Jesus uses that story to remind
his generation and ours of the necessity of reform.
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Tuesday of the First Week of Lent
(Isaiah 55:10-11; Matthew 67-15)
Katabasis is a Greek word meaning going down or
descent. Christian theology has employed
the term in reference to Jesus’ coming from heaven to save humanity. This use reflects Isaiah’s prophecy in today’s
first reading. God’s word, which in its
most prescient form is the Son, descends from heaven to earth to effect the
divine will.
Today’s gospel suggests a mirror image of heavenly katabasis. Human words in the form of prayer go up (anabasis
in Greek) to God who provides what the person needs. Jesus tells us that prayers should not be
multiplied beyond the simple petitions of the Our Father. The petitioner after recognizing God’s
holiness makes four requests. First, she
asks for the peace of God’s Kingdom. Then,
she requests bread both for the earthly table and the heavenly journey. Third, she looks for forgiveness of past
sins. Finally, she wants guidance to
avoid pitfalls on the way to her eternal home.
We understand the season of Lent as our heavenly journey. It is an ascent from worldly desires to the
purity of mountaintops. This ascent begins
with recognizing how sin has distanced us from God’s love. It proceeds with our being purified and
strengthened through Lenten disciplines.
It ends at the celebration of the Lord’s resurrection from the dead and the
pledge of our own.
Monday, February 23, 2026
Monday of the First Week of Lent
(Leviticus 19:1-2.11-18; Matthew 25,31-46)
Today’s first reading is taken from the famous “Holiness
Code” in the Book of Leviticus. The code
lists a series of precepts that are to be followed so that one may become holy like
as God. The precepts mirror the
Decalogue, but today’s reading has a striking peculiarity. It tells the reader not to show “partiality
to the weak.” Doesn’t this conflict with
the blessing that Jesus bestows on those who serve the needy in the gospel
reading?
It doesn’t if one considers the context of the prohibition
of partiality. The command applies to judicial
proceedings. A criminal suspect should
be judged guilty or innocent according to the evidence, not according to socio-economic
status. Nevertheless, a poor or sick
person should be assisted in meeting physical needs. In the gospel Jesus extends the scope of
beneficiaries. They are not only members
of one’s family or community but strangers as well.
Despite our reluctance to think of ourselves as holy,
achieving holiness is our vocation in life.
It is also the immediate objective of Lent. We recognize that it is a long road that
often seems endless. But through the
years and with continual effort, progress becomes evident.
Sunday, February 22, 2026
FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT, February 22, 2026
(Genesis 2:7–9; 3:1–7; Romans 5:12–19; Matthew 4:1–11)
We have begun the long journey of Lent. To help us make good
use of these forty days, the Church offers us some of the most profound
readings in the entire Bible. We know them well, yet they are always worth
revisiting.
It is often said that the story of Adam and Eve describes
the first sin. This is true, but it also describes every human sin. At the root
of all human sin lies the pride of the first human beings. We sin whenever we
consider our own will more important than the will of God. In this story, the
serpent tempts the woman with the promise that if they eat from the fruit of
the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, they will be like God. Rejecting
God’s command not to eat from that tree, both eat the fruit. Every time we sin,
we do the same thing: we reject God’s will to satisfy our own desires.
We say “we,” but we should not include Jesus Christ in that
statement. Although Jesus shares our human nature, he never placed his own will
above the will of God the Father. In today’s Gospel, we see him overcome pride
in each of the three temptations presented to him by Satan.
In the first temptation, Jesus is in the desert suffering
intense hunger. Satan urges him to satisfy his desire by turning stones into
bread. Jesus, however, recognizes that doing so would disappoint his Father. He
decides that satisfying his hunger is not worth displeasing God, and he rejects
the temptation. We can place ourselves in Jesus’ sandals. If, after working all
Sunday and missing morning Mass, would we choose to attend Mass in the evening
instead of immediately satisfying our hunger?
Then Satan tries to test Jesus’ relationship with his
Father. He suggests that Jesus perform a reckless act to see whether God will
save him from death despite his foolishness. Jesus has no difficulty rejecting
this challenge because he knows that God’s love for him—and for all—is
infinite. But beyond the question of paternal love, Jesus knows that he must do
things in God’s way, not his own. We might ask ourselves: when faced with a
difficulty, are we ready to handle it in God’s way? Or do we insist on doing
things our way while assuming that God will forgive us later?
Finally, Jesus is tempted with power over the world. It is
easy to imagine how appealing this temptation is to pride. All Jesus would have
to do is perform an act of adoration to Satan to gain control of everything.
But Jesus recognizes the stench of deceit. Satan is the father of lies. Furthermore, Jesus did not come to earth to
serve himself—much less to worship the devil. He came solely to serve his
Father.
In the second reading, Saint Paul speaks of “the overflowing
grace that makes us righteous.” This is the grace that flows from Jesus Christ.
He twice conquered the pride of the first human beings that brought death to
all. First, he overcame the three temptations in the desert. Then, he
definitively overcame human pride on Calvary. To benefit from this overflowing
grace, we must live in relationship with him. Here, in the Eucharist, he offers
us his Body and Blood as our strength. He does not abandon us when we go out to
face life’s challenges. Rather, he walks
with us so that nothing may cause us to stumble. With him at our side, we
trample pride underfoot and pass from death to eternal life with God.
Friday, February 20, 2026
Friday after Ash Wednesday
(Ezekiel 18:21-28; Matthew 5:20-26)
Tac had a rough life.
He grew up the son of a bar owner and married a woman who worked in the
bar. The two lived loosely with much
partying. Then Tac’s father died of
alcoholism, and he told his wife that they must reform. They quit their jobs in bars and began a
family. One day Tac went home and found his wife raped and murdered. He was accused of the crime but easily
cleared himself. However, Tac could not
clear the anger in his head. When the
murderer was caught, Tac tried to take revenge by getting himself arrested in
the same jail as the murderer. The plan
failed, but Tac was sentenced first to probation on a drug charge, then after
being caught with more drugs to a state abuse punishment center.
There things turned for the better. Tac met a chaplain who, as he says, “saw
Christ in me.” With the chaplain’s assistance,
Tac forgave his father and finally his wife’s murderer. Tac attended the execution of the murderer and
heard his final statement. The man thanked
God for his friends and family who enabled him to reform. Right before his
death, the murderer turned to Tac and asked, “Can you forgive me?” Tac nodded yes.
This true story teaches that reconciliation is more than
praying for your persecutors and telling yourself that you forgive them. It is seeking them out to forge a
relationship of mutual care and respect.
Jesus demands us to do this in today’s gospel. He tells us, who come to mass, that as we
arrive and remember that we have done something wrong to another, we must seek
that person out, offer our apology and pray that it is accepted. If we cannot do this, we should not expect
God to be lenient with us on judgment day.
Thursday, February 19, 2026
Thursday after Ash Wednesday
In the reading from Deuteronomy today, Moses exhorts the Israelites to “choose life.” He has in mind following God’s commandments which bring prosperity to both individual and community. As always, Jesus intensifies Moses’ message. In today’s gospel he says that life comes when people surrender themselves to God as he does. This will often mean a renunciation of one’s personal desires. But the life that Jesus has in mind is eternal happiness with God.
We have already chosen Jesus’ way of life, but we have not always been faithful to it. During Lent we make the necessary adjustments to renew our choice. It requires sacrifice for sure. To help us in the process we have the Lord himself in the Eucharist as well as one another.
Wednesday, February18, 2026
Ash Wednesday
(Joel 2:12-18; II Corinthians 5:20-6:2; Matthew 6:1-6.16-18)
A guest editorialist recently wrote in a national newspaper about
his experience of receiving ashes on Ash Wednesday. He said that like most Catholics he does not
attend Mass every Sunday. But -- he defended himself -- he always goes on Ash
Wednesday. He said that it is a good
thing to receive the ashes and hear the words, “… you are dust, and to dust you
shall return.”
It would be fair to ask the writer, “Good for what?” if he
does not repent of sins like not giving due worship to God. Ashes are administered to do more than remind one
of human mortality once a year.
Obituaries do the same every day.
Ashes are the first step in the process of repentance and reform. They move recipients to stop thinking about conforming
to the Lord’s ways and to start doing it.
In today’s gospel Jesus tells us that our repentance must be
sincere. It should not be done to
impress others or – more foolishly – to think we can fool God by fasting,
giving alms, or praying publicly. These requisite
practices are to be carried out without drawing attention to ourselves or convincing
ourselves that we are better than others.
No, we practice repentance for love of God whom we have often failed.
Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Tuesday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time
(James 1:12-18; Mark 8:14-21)
Novice hikers in the Rockies are told what to do if they
spot a bear. They are not to run. Running would provoke a bear to attack if it
is threatened or hungry. Rather than
run, hikers are to hold their backpacks over their heads and walk away from the
bear. Bears do not have 20-20
vision. They would see a hiker with a
pack held high as a giant with whom they would rather not tangle.
What has this to do with today’s gospel? Only this: like a
hiker with backpack raised high will appear formidable to a bear, pride and
arrogance will distort the vision of a sinner.
She will think herself better than she is. In the gospel Jesus warns his disciples not
to think like this. The “leaven of the
Pharisees” is pride which puffs up one’s self-perception. Disciples do not have to boast about who is smarter.
stronger or more beautiful. They have
Jesus -- the one loaf – with them. He is
both sustenance and consolation for one and all.
Tomorrow we begin Lent.
It is a time of grace. We will
walk with Jesus forty days to temper our pride -- our love of self -- and to
bolster our charity -- our love for others.
Monday, February 16, 2026
Monday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time
(James 1:1-11; Mark 8:11-13)
The Letter of James is a New Testament enigma. No one knows who wrote it or to whom it was
written. Some think it was written by
James, “the brother of the Lord.” Perhaps,
but if so, why does the author never relate a personal experience with Jesus? In fact, he hardly mentions the Lord. For this reason, others wonder if it is not a
Jewish document that has been “baptized” with a few Christian references. Yet the work echoes Jesus’ passionate defense
of the poor. This is seen in today’s passage
which speaks of the lowly being exulted and the sun scorching the richly endowed
flower of the field.
Today’s reading also mentions “the twelve tribes of the
diaspora” as the letter’s addressee.
This may sound like a reference to Jews living outside of Palestine. However, the First Letter of Peter begins
with a similar reference. Perhaps, then,
the phrase refers to the communities of the twelve apostles.
Since the Reformation, the Letter of James has been most
noted for its apparent refutation of St. Paul’s claim, “… a person is justified
by faith apart from works of the law” (Rom 3:28). James states his case bluntly,
“Faith without works is dead” (James 2:26).
Paul himself bows to this truth
in the Letter to the Galatians where he says, “For in Christ Jesus, neither
circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working
through love” (Gal 5:6). Let us note as
well James’ testimony to faith in today’s passage. He writes that when faith is tested, it
produces perseverance which leads to perfection. The perfection of sanctity is what we
consider essential for eternal life.
Sunday, February 15, 2026
Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
(Sirach 15:16–21; 1 Corinthians 2:6–10; Matthew 5:17–37)
Worldly wisdom. Isn’t this what our Uncle John used to
describe as necessary for a good life? He outlined some of its principles for
us: it is good to help your neighbor, but it is even better to be seen helping.
Also, what matters most is not what you know, but whom you know.
In today’s second reading, from his First Letter to the
Corinthians, Saint Paul also speaks about worldly wisdom. He does not so much
criticize it as he points out that it is not equal to divine wisdom. Indeed, in
some ways human wisdom can help us move through life with a certain ease. For
example, it suggests that we study when we are young so that we will not have
to work as hard when we are adults. There is nothing radical about that. Another saying of worldly wisdom, certainly more controversial, is this: it is
good to be loved, but it is better to be feared. Dictators put this piece of
worldly wisdom into practice.
The main problem Paul has with worldly wisdom is that it
cannot save us from sin and death. On the contrary, according to Saint Paul, if
we follow only the advice of the wise of this world, we will end up dead
forever. That is why he exhorts the Corinthians to seek the wisdom of God.
Where can it be found? Paul says it is no farther away —nor more difficult to
grasp— than surrendering ourselves to Christ crucified.
In last Sunday’s reading, Paul spoke about how he himself
surrendered to Christ’s cross when he came to preach in Corinth. He said, “When
I came to you, brothers and sisters, proclaiming the mystery of God, I did not
come with sublimity of words or of wisdom… for I resolved to know nothing while
I was with you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” Paul did not speak of
an invincible warrior or an athletic champion who might gather mass allegiance. Rather, he spoke of a man who gave his life
for others. Somehow, this preaching won the minds and hearts of many listeners.
Preaching Jesus Christ crucified qualifies as the wisdom of
God because it favors the poor and the humble rather than the powerful. Jesus
died at the hands of the powerful in order to save the multitudes from sin and
death. It is also divine wisdom because it works mysteriously: it does not
attract people through a display of power, but through a story of universal
love. Without a doubt, Paul preached the resurrection of the Lord along with
his apparently complete defeat on the cross. Yet the acceptance of this message
was the work of the Holy Spirit, not the charm of country folk tales, since the
Corinthians were city people, not very tolerant of rural folktales.
In the Gospel, Jesus challenges his disciples to put the
wisdom of God into practice. He says that it is not enough not to kill; they
must also avoid anger toward a brother or sister. In this way, everyone will
know that they belong to God. Likewise, they must not only refrain from
committing adultery, but also avoid looking at a woman with lust. In this way,
people will recognize that it is God’s grace that is at work, not merely human
discipline. Finally, Jesus says that his disciples should not take oaths, but
should “let your ‘yes’ mean yes, and your ‘no’ mean no.” (We understand this
prohibition as a condemnation of unnecessary, casual, or deceptive oaths.) His
disciples are not meant to impress others with lengthy words, but to bear
witness to the simple truth of the cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ..
In a few days we will begin the season of Lent. It is an
opportunity for us to practice the wisdom of God. May our sacrifices and our
prayer not be ways of impressing one another. Rather, may they be a testimony
of our love for God and for our neighbor.
Friday, February 13, 2026
Friday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time
(I Kings 11:29-32.12:19; Mark 7:31-37)
Most people credit Abraham Lincoln for ending slavery in the
United States. He is rightly seen as the
great emancipator of African slaves. However,
more important than that feat, which was not accomplished until after his assassination,
was Lincoln’s saving the country from division.
Lincoln himself saw the preservation of the Union as essential. He wrote in a famous letter published in the New
York Times during the Civil War: “My paramount object in this
struggle is to save the Union, and is not either
to save or to destroy slavery.” Lincoln
knew that the end of slavery was inevitable.
He also knew that it would come about more easily and completely with
the Union intact. Unions of people and
states allow dialogue, which fosters understanding, which brings about the give
and take of compromise. For this reason,
the breakup of the Kingdom of Israel signified in today’s first reading is
tragic.
The union of the northern tribes and southern tribes was
never easy. It was accomplished by
David, a strongman with an impressive faith in God as well as political
shrewdness. Its coming apart with David’s
grandsons led to strategic weakness vis-Ã -vis the other nations of the region. The gradual corruption of the leaders of both
northern and southern kingdoms contributed to the downfalls of the kingdoms and
the exiles of their peoples.
Our Catholic Church today is threatened by calls and acts of
separation on both the right and the left.
The proverbial “man in the middle” is Pope Leo. His mandate is not only to keep the Church
together while seeking reunification with Orthodox churches and Protestant ecclesial
communities. He must accomplish these
feats without betraying the apostolic tradition. We can assist his efforts by prayer and also
by developing restraint in judgment of others and by reaching out in honest
dialogue with those who disagree with us.
Thursday, February 12, 2026
Thursday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time
(I Kings 11:4-13; Mark 7:24-30)
Today’s gospel may be compared to the experience of a priest
asked to hear a confession on Easter Monday.
He is exhausted after Holy Week when he celebrated long liturgies and heard
hundreds of confessions. He just wants
to rest when someone bursts into his office begging him to hear her
confession. It is not only that it would
take time and effort, but also that there are posted times for confessions.
Jesus has arranged a retreat from his exhaustive schedule of
preaching and healing. He only wants a short
respite from work when the pagan woman interrupts his tranquility. She requests
that he expel the demon molesting her daughter.
Jesus tries to tell her that there will be a time for ministry to
Gentiles, but she insists. Jesus --
moved by the woman’s faith in him, love for her daughter, and humility -- grants
her petition.
We may wonder why Jesus hesitates to utter a word that would
drive out her daughter’s demon. It probably
takes more effort than we imagine. It may
create a ministry to the much more numerous non-Jews before he completes the mission
prescribed by his Father to the Jews. We
also would like to ask about Jesus’ remark that refers to non-Jews as “dogs.” This question may be answered by the Jewish use
of “dogs” for Gentiles as a popular way of speaking in Jesus’ time. It is no more insulting than for us to call
our children “kids,” which is the proper name for small goats. Rather than criticize Jesus’ behavior in this
gospel, we might consider the following: he takes time to converse with the
woman; he changes his position after hearing the woman’s argument; and he mercifully
grants her request. Jesus remains a
model for us in everything.
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Wednesday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time
(I Kings 10:1-10; Mark 7:14-23)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is astounding people today much
like the personal computer did forty years.
Ask it any question – “How do I bake apples?” “Why do Chinese have
trouble pronouncing the letter ‘r’?” How
does Kant’s philosophy compare with Aquinas’? – and it responds with a
plausible answer in a second. AI can
write a letter for you, balance your checkbook, tutor you in a foreign
language, and incredibly more. There is no more exaggeration here than in the
first reading’s statement: “… there remained nothing hidden from (King Solomon)
that he could not explain to (the queen of Sheba.).
Solomon is famous for his wisdom. He not only knew many things but, more
importantly, understood how things can work for the improvement of his subjects.
Despite these blessings, Solomon died in a troubled state. His many wives had twisted his heart away
from the God of Israel. His sons, Jeroboam
and Rehoboam, were ready to divide his kingdom.
In working with AI, we might take advantage of Solomon’s
legacy. The help AI provides is enormous. But some will submit its products as their
own creations. Another problem is AI’s
tendency to “hallucinate”; that is, to extrapolate from its base new information
that is not accurate. If we use AI to deceive others, then it is not helpful
but harmful. In these cases, it is twisting
us away from God, who is truth.
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Memorial of Saint Scholastica, Virgin
(I Kings 8:22-23.27-30; Mark 7:1-13)
Solomon built the “First Temple” in Jerusalem to unify the
people of Israel. The people came there
from every part of the vast kingdom to worship.
They also celebrated Israel’s principal feasts and offered sacrifices
for sins.
The Temple was to the people of Israel what a monastery
chapel is to a community of nuns. The holy
women come together several times a day for common prayer in the chapel. Most monasteries practice “Eucharistic
Adoration” where the Blessed Sacred is exposed in the chapel for a most, if not
all, of the day. The chapel is space
where the nuns not only praise God but encounter Him much like healing is found
in a hospital.
Because of her association with her brother, St. Benedict, today’s
patron -- St. Scholastica -- is said to have founded the Benedictine nuns. Not much is known of her life. However, like Benedict, she was dedicated to
God. She worked, prayed, and lived
simply with other consecrated women to express her love for the Lord.
Monday, February 9, 2026
Monday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time
(I Kings
8:1-7.9-13; Mark 6:53-56)
Once upon a
time a chicken and a pig were planning the farmer’s birthday party. The
chicken suggested to the pig, “Why don’t we give him a breakfast of bacon and
eggs?” The pig flinched at the idea. “Wait a minute”; he said, “for
you, that may represent a token of appreciation. But for me it is
total sacrifice.”
Humans have
sacrificed animals for reasons greater than providing the farmer’s
breakfast. Today’s first reading tells of the people of Israel offering
to the Lord “sheep and oxen too many to number or count.” Because animals are
so vital for human welfare, their offerings may represent the people
themselves. The reading expresses this purpose. The
enormous sacrifice bespeaks the people’s intention to give themselves
fully to God with Solomon’s temple.
Often, however,
sacrifices from humans are compromised. We make them to appease God,
not to express the intention of dedicating ourselves to Him. Because
of this pretension as well as our other sins, Jesus handed himself over to be sacrificed. As
the divine Creator and the foremost exemplar of humanity, Jesus makes the
perfect offering to God the Father. Of course, he does not immolate
himself. Rather the world’s egotism condemns him to death on a
cross. His suffering that injustice out of obedience to the Father
redeems us of our sins.
Sunday, February 8, 2026
FIFTH
SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
(Isaiah 58:7–10; 1 Corinthians 2:1–5; Matthew 5:13–16)
As last
Sunday, today’s Gospel is taken from the Sermon on the Mount. The disciples
have drawn near to Jesus to listen to his teaching. He began by proclaiming
“blessed” those who live the righteousness of God. In the passage we hear
today, Jesus uses two images to describe the role of his disciples in the
world.
But who are
the disciples of Jesus? Some may think they are only the Twelve Apostles. That
cannot be the case, however, because besides Simon Peter and his companions,
the Gospel speaks of a relatively large number of followers. It was from among
them that Jesus chose his inner circle of confidants. The word “disciple” comes
from the Latin discipulus, meaning “learner” or “student.” Pope Francis
has called all Christians “missionary disciples.” This was not merely a pious compliment,
but a concrete call addressed to the baptized. Rather than simply praying in
the pews, all Christians are called to learn about Christ so that they may
speak about him to others.
There is a
Protestant community that calls itself “the Disciples of Christ.” They see
themselves as the vanguard of a movement to unify a fragmented world. Their
spirit as well as their name would have certainly pleased the former pope. Unfortunately, their beliefs and discipline
do not totally conform to the Catholic tradition.
First, Jesus
calls his disciples “the salt of the earth.” Salt has many uses, from
preserving fish to melting ice. It is not only useful, but also inexpensive.
Mahatma Gandhi, the Hindu leader, called salt “the condiment of the poor.” Probably
Jesus has this use in mind when he declares that his disciples are like salt.
Salt adheres
to starches, vegetables and meats to enhance their flavors. In a similar way,
Christians are called to improve society. The Letter to Diognetus is a
second-century document written to defend Christian customs against their many
critics. It says: “(Christians) marry like everyone else and beget children,
but they do not abandon the children they conceive. They share the table, but
not the bed.” Over time, the Christian practices of rejecting abortion and
reserving sexual intimacy for marriage were adopted by most nations.
In recent
times, however, we have witnessed an erosion of these values. We have seen the
acceptance of sexual promiscuity and abortion even among some Christian groups.
One could say that “the salt has lost its taste.” Instead of showing the world
virtue, these Christians have adopted worldly vices.
Even more
common and beneficial than salt is light. Light makes it possible to transform
water and carbon dioxide into food through photosynthesis, a process that also
releases oxygen into the atmosphere. Without food to eat or oxygen to breathe,
neither human life nor nearly any other form of life could exist.
We, as
disciples of Christ, act as light when we share Christ’s teachings with the
world. They serve as a guide that illuminates the path to peace. This is done
more by example than by words, though both forms of instruction are necessary.
In this same Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches: “Therefore, if you bring your
gift to the altar and there recall that your brother has something against you,
leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your
brother, and then come and offer your gift” (5:23–24). When enemies are reconciled, a society
becomes more united and more just.
Jesus exhorts
us to let our light shine like “a city set on a hill.” What good is a light on
a hill if it does not guide the traveler home? We, the disciples of Christ, are
in the world to help everyone reach their true home with the Lord. Sadly, not
everyone acts as if they want to arrive there. That does not matter. According
to Jesus, we are here to illuminate the way to that home for all.
Friday, February 6, 2026
Memorial of Saint Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs
(Sirach 47:2-11; Mark 6:14-29)
Ten years ago, American filmmaker Martin Scorsese premiered
his version of the persecution of Japanese Christians in the seventeenth
century. The film "Silence" depicts two European
Jesuits who apostatize so that Japanese peasants are not tortured any
longer. Evidently Scorsese believed that
apostasy can be good if done for an appropriate reason.
In fact, the Jesuits involved in the historical incident did
not apostatize. They, like St. Paul Miki
and companions, whom the Church honors today, accepted martyrdom. They knew that the world be better and that they
would be judged favorably if they gave testimony to Jesus Christ as “the way,
the life, and the truth.”
It is a terrible thing to die. It is even more terrible to die young and
after being tortured. But it is far
worse to betray Christ, our Lord, who himself suffered crucifixion to give humans
eternal life. No “appropriate reason”
can turn something evil into something good. However, very good things will
result when we endure evil for the sake of Christ.
Thursday, February 5, 2026
Memorial of Saint Agatha, Virgin and Martyr
(II Kings 2:4.10-12; Mark 6:7-13)
Today’s gospel serves as a guide for navigating the
approaching season of Lent. In less than
two weeks our heads will be ashed, and we will pray for mercy. Spiritual masters have recommended that the forty
days be considered a journey from self-indulgence to self-giving.
Jesus sends out the Twelve “two by two.” We are reminded that the Lenten journey need
not be solitary. Sharing our experience
with a couple faithful friends may keep us on track when temptations to abandon
our resolutions arise. Taking “nothing
on the journey” reminds us to sacrifice comforts and delights as a testimony of
our love for God. A walking stick and
sandals are essential for travelling on a rough road in Biblical days. They are represented by Scripture and the
Sacraments for our Lenten journey.
The gospel passage ends saying the apostles drove out many
demons. We want the demons within us like
pride, laziness, and lust to be likewise removed. Following the Lord’s instructions suggested
here, we will progress in prying these demons loose.
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Wednesday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time
Although trust in God in any endeavor includes one’s making preparations, there is a difference between the two. When we trust in God, we do not violate any of His precepts nor do we presuppose accomplishment of our goal. Rather we work diligently to assure success, pray that it is God’s will, and conform ourselves to His Providence.
Tuesday, February 3, 2026
(Optional) Memorial of Saint Blaise, bishop and martyr
(II Samuel 18:9-10.14b.24-25a.30-19:3; Mark 5:21-43)
Today’s rather obscure patron saint is one of the most
celebrated by the people. The reason, of
course, is the long tradition of blessing throats with candles, themselves
blessed yesterday, “Candlemas Day.”
The gospels report that Jesus worked many healings like the
two done in today’s passage. He cured
sickness and expelled demons to show that the Kingdom of God has indeed come upon
the world. The Kingdom promises
wholeness to loving believers although not immediate cure of every
illness. Healed or not on earth, they
will experience the fulness of health in eternal life.
Today’s blessing should not be taken as a vaccine for throat
disease. It is a request for healing of
every kind – physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. It is said that St. Blaise’s prayers saved a boy
from choking on a fishbone. May his
prayers clear our throats as well to profess faith in God and to tell of God’s
glory.
Monday, February 2, 2026
Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
(Malachi 3:1-4; Hebrews 2:14-18; Luke 2:22-32)
Throughout the Old Testament the People of God long to see
God’s face. Psalm 27 expresses the
desire pointedly: “’Come,’ says my heart, ‘seek God’s face’; your face, Lord,
do I seek!” (Psalm 27:8) Good people realize that in the Lord’s presence there
is not only beauty but safety and happiness.
In short, in seeing God’s face, one experiences salvation.
In today’s gospel Simeon encompasses this longing. A seer above all, he has been promised sight
of God’s face. He might have expected
that the countenance of God would be that of a wise person full of trial, strength
and compassion. However, like Samuel
when he is presented with David for anointing, Simeon is surprised by the face
of an infant. But he has no doubts. Upon seeing the Christ-child, he breaks into
song: “’Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to
your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation ….”
The Church sings Simeon’s Canticle at Night Prayer in the
Liturgy of the Hours. It assures us that
Christ not only lights our way through this world but becomes our focus in the
next.
Saturday, January 31, 2026
Memorial of Saint John Bosco, Priest
(II Samuel 12:1-7a.10-17; Mark 4:35-41)
Today’s first reading shows the effects of sin. It not only comes back to bite the sinner but
creates a destructive ripple in society.
Like a tsunami the ripple can grow to devastate homes and cities. David believed that as king he could do
anything he wanted. He could sleep with
another man’s wife. He could have the man
killed for his convenience. But David
like everyone else is subject to God’s justice.
He will not only suffer the death of his child, but also dissension
among his other sons and continual upheaval among his descendants.
The story is repeated on a larger scale today. Sexual promiscuity and marital infidelity have
resulted in vast numbers of abortion, abuse of women, and children in poverty. Should there be any wonder that sexual entrepreneurs
like Jeffrey Epstein arise?
Our world often seems like the stormy sea described in today’s
gospel. Jesus is with us in the boat of
society. But we must seek his wisdom and
follow it if we are ever to live in tranquility.
Sunday, February 1, 2026
FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
(Zephaniah 2:3, 3:12-13; 1 Corinthians 1:26-31; Matthew
5:1-12a)
Today's Gospel records the beginning of the most famous
discourse in history. As a work of rhetoric and as an outline for a worthwhile
life, the Sermon on the Mount is unparalleled. The opening is renowned in
itself. The Beatitudes paint a portrait of the perfect disciple whose destiny
is none other than the Kingdom of God. Jesus is considered wise for placing the
reward first, before mentioning the associated sacrifices.
The reading begins with Jesus taking a seat on a mountain.
The mountain represents the pantheon of gods among whom Jesus, the “Son of
God,” has a place. His disciples stand near him, and behind them, the crowd.
Jesus proclaims, “Blessed…” or “Happy,” to nine kinds of people. Each member of
these groups deserves eternal life for having lived the justice of the Kingdom.
The first group mentioned is “the poor in spirit.” They live
dependent on God in life and in death, not on their own resources or the help
of men. They are not lazy, and much less presumptuous. They simply recognize
that the goal of life lies in God, not in material things. This characteristic
is often found in the economically poor, but even the rich can entrust their
lives to God. Saint Bridget of Sweden and Saint Elizabeth of Hungary were
queens of nations who, as soon as they could, shared their wealth with the
needy.
“Those who mourn” weep for their own sins or for the way
evil has taken root in the world. With tears in his eyes Saint Dominic cried
out: “What will become of sinners?” Of course, those who mourn are simply
imitating Jesus weeping at the entrance to Jerusalem (Luke 19:41). In fact,
Jesus is the model for each of the Beatitudes.
“The meek” do not insist on their own agendas but accept
God’s inscrutable designs. Bobby Jones was one of the greatest golfers in
history. When he became so infirm that he could no longer compete, he was asked
if he resented what had happened to him. No, he said, “…in golf as in life, you
have to play the ball where it lies.” Jesus promises that the suffering “will
inherit the earth.” But he is not
referring to any worldly property but to the Kingdom of God.
In its list of beatitudes, the Gospel of Luke emphasizes
physical deprivation, while Matthew expands the scope of deprivation. The
fourth beatitude serves as an example. Luke has Jesus saying, “Blessed are you
who hunger now…!” Biblical scholars comment that Jesus probably spoke this way
in the style of the Hebrew prophets. But Matthew considers the message of
Jesus’ the entire life: how he ministered and how he died. This is why he has Jesus
saying, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.” The
blessed ones in Matthew have a spiritual hunger and thirst to always live in
accordance with God's will. In the Gospels, Jesus never transgresses the Law.
Even in death, he followed the Father's directives. Eric Liddell was an athlete
from Scotland competing in the 1924 Olympics. When the 100-meter dash was
scheduled for Sunday, Liddell refused to participate. He considered running on
Sunday a violation of the Third Commandment. With a life oriented in this way,
Liddell ultimately achieved the fulfillment of his heart's deepest desires. He
died a missionary martyr in China during World War II.
In his confrontations with the Pharisees, Jesus warns them:
“You tithe mint, dill, and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of
the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness!” (23:23). Mercy will always require
more of the individual than simply fulfilling the minutia of the law. Christ's
disciples do not neglect to fulfill it. These are the ones the Lord will choose
when He comes on the last day. The merciful include members of other faiths. In
regions of Africa affected by Boko Haram terrorists, Muslim families have
hidden Christians in their homes, risking deadly reprisal.
When the prophet Samuel visited Bethlehem to anoint one of Jesse's sons as king, he didn't choose any of his seven older sons. They were handsome and strong, but the Lord told the prophet that He doesn't look at appearances like men do, but rather at the heart. When David came to Samuel, he anointed him king. God wants men and women to have hearts cleansed of animal desires. Those with hearts inclined toward kindness and compassion, He will allow to see Him face to face in eternal life.
Mr. Bill Tomes was a businessman from Chicago. In the middle
of his career, he traded his suit and tie for a blue denim religious habit. He
began working among the gangs in his city. When he heard about a gang fight, he
went to stand between the two sides until they stopped shooting. He is the kind
of person Jesus has in mind when He says, “Blessed are the peacemakers.”
The last two beatitudes are really just one. Jesus
pronounces “blessed” those who suffer persecution to become holy like Him.
Holiness is not achieved simply by praying in a pew. It also requires a life
dedicated to others. Jesus adds that this struggle to be holy is at its root a
quest for him. When we find him, our “reward will be great in heaven.”
Friday, January 30, 2026
Friday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time
(II Samuel 11:1-4a.5-10a.13-17; Mark 4:26-34)
An important American theologian wrote that the “Kingdom of God” is a poetic way of saying “God.” What is God like? Jesus gives a partial answer to this perennial question with today’s parables. He is like a mysterious power that makes things happen for human benefit.
There is no patent on the beginning of life. No one knows
how exactly life first came about. In
today’s gospel Jesus attributes its coming to be to God’s acting in the
world. “The Kingdom of God” typically
acting quietly, he says, describes how biological life came about.
More than this, Jesus explains life’s blessings with another
parable of God’s Kingdom. He states that
God’s Kingdom has the power to turn a tiny mustard seed into a giant mustard
plant. The product provides nutrition
and repose to a multitude of birds. One might
make her own parable here. God’s kingdom
is the dynamic force that turned a little Georgian restaurant into the
ubiquitous luncheon enterprise known as “Chick Fil A.” Or, more in keeping with
the Eucharist, the Kingdom of God is like a band of twelve men in Israel becoming
an institution with over one billion members in almost every country in the
world.
The parables of the Kingdom inspire us to consider God’s
goodness. More than that, they encourage
us to act so that we might benefit from its prodigious bounty.
Thursday, January 29, 2026
Thursday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time
(II Samuel 7:18-19.24-29; Mark 4:21-25)
The gospels frequently refer to Jesus as light. In John, Jesus declares, “I am the light of
the world.” In Luke, the visionary
Simeon, while holding the infant Jesus in his arms, calls him, “’… a light for
revelation to the Gentiles.’” In today’s
passage from Mark, Jesus uses a metaphor to say the same. He is a lamp that has come into the world so
that people may see.
Jesus adds in the Gospel of John, “’… but people preferred
darkness to light, because their works were evil’” (3:19). The light of truth prohibits actions which
many defend – sex outside of marriage, lying to get what you want, drinking
until inebriated, and more. For this
reason, Jesus adds, “’The measure with which you measure will be measured out
to you.’” That is, if you do evil, it
will bite you back.
“’Take care what you hear.’” Jesus further tells us. We must listen to him, reflect on what he
says, and follow his counsel every day.
His light will point out the way to our true happiness.
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Memorial of Saint Thomas Aquinas, priest and Doctor of
the Church
(II Samuel 7:7-14; Mark 4:1-20)
Memorial of Saint Thomas Aquinas, priest and Doctor of
the Church
(II Samuel 7:7-14; Mark 4:1-20)
The name “Thomas Aquinas” suggests complexity to students of
theology. His magistral Summa Theologiae
explores more than six hundred topics (called “questions”) with more than three
thousand articles of investigation, and many thousands of citations from
Scripture. Yet Thomas was not a complex
person and sees his principal subject of inquiry – that is, God – as complete
simplicity.
Thomas was born into a semi-noble family in southern
Italy. Noticing his ability, his family hoped
that he would be a future abbot of the Benedictine abbey where Thomas schooled. However, when Thomas met the Dominicans in
Naples, he found his true calling. The
Order exhibited a simplicity that touched his heart. It professes poverty that eschews material
accumulation. It strives above all to preach the gospel intelligently. And its members wear a habit of the most
basic of colors – black and white.
Thomas’ conception of God bespeaks the singularity of Thomas’
own heart. God for him is absolutely
simple. He has no essence other than
existence, no attribute apart from His essence, and no possibility of being
anything other than who He is. In praise
of God Thomas devoted his life.
Today’s gospel speaks of “rich soil” producing much
fruit. Like few others Thomas Aquinas
exemplifies that soil. His simplicity of
heart explaining the complete simplicity of God gave rise to thousands of
insights into both God and humans.
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Tuesday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time
(II Samuel 6:12b-15.17-19; Mark 3:31-35)
In today’s reading from II Samuel, David consolidates his
power over Israel. He has been anointed
the nation’s king. Now he shows himself as
its religious leader as well. By
capturing attention in the procession with the Ark of the Covenant, David is
claiming to be the people’s de facto “high priest.”
Kings and presidents throughout history have sought high
status in religious affairs. The term
for religious along with political supremacy is “caesaropapism.” Roman emperors after Constantine relished this
dual authority. Henry VIII proclaimed
himself head of the Church of England.
For all practical purposes Louis XIV did likewise in France. Vladimir Putin seems to wield religious power
in Russia today.
Most societies today, however, have firmly separated
religious from political authority. Political
authority needs an independent religious counterweight to critique its determinations. The converse is true as well. Religious
authority can become tyrannical so that government should restrain its overreaching.
Monday, January 26, 2026
Memorial of Saints Timothy and Titus, Bishops
(II Timothy 1:1-8; Mark 3:22-30)
Today’s feast of Saints Timothy and Titus remembers two of St.
Paul’s most trusted collaborators.
Timothy accompanied Paul on several missionary journeys and represented
Paul in different situations. Paul probably
ordained him the first bishop of Ephesus in the ceremony recalled in today’s
first reading. Titus accompanied Paul to
the “Council of Jerusalem.” There his
Gentile upbringing probably lent credibility to Paul’s claim that Gentiles too could
serve the Lord. He became bishop of
Crete.
The feast of these two saints provides opportunity to
reflect on the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity which ended yesterday. Every year from January 18 through January 25,
the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul, members of Christian churches pray together
so that, in Jesus’ words, “… all may be one” (John 17:21).
Progress towards Christian unity has been slow. Certainly, there is less hostility among the
different communities of faith than a century ago. However, some of the churches have introduced
changes that seem to make union with the Catholic Church virtually impossible. Perhaps unity will emerge rapidly after some
unanticipated crisis. However it comes
about, there are glimpses of it in the fellowship and prayer during the week of
unity.
Sunday, January 25, 2026
THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
(Isaiah 8:23b–9:3; 1 Corinthians 1:10-13,17; Matthew 4:12-23)
Today’s Gospel has long been a favorite of the Church
because of its emblematic vocational call. At Jesus’ simple invitation, Peter
and his companions immediately drop everything to follow him.
The reading begins with a sense of urgency. Jesus takes up
the mission of his forerunner John, who has just been imprisoned. He proclaims
the same message as John but reverses his word order. Where John announced,
“The kingdom of heaven is at hand; repent…,” Jesus places the demand first:
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” In this way, he teaches his
listeners the absolute necessity of placing God’s will at the center of their lives.
The needs and desires of the self are not as important as God’s righteousness.
We are accustomed to thinking of ourselves as “number one.”
But blessed are the children whose parents tell them, “Always do what is
right.” Sadly, many children grow up hearing messages that encourage them to
put their own interests first. The result is a society in which everyone claims
personal rights without considering the responsibility of safeguarding the
rights of others. When someone gives us the wrong change, we are quick to
correct the mistake; but when the error is in our favor, we are reluctant to
say anything.
The fishermen in today’s Gospel do not show this selfish
tendency. Instead, as soon as they hear Jesus’ call, they respond quickly and
wholeheartedly. Simon Peter and Andrew leave their nets — their livelihood — to
follow him. James and John even leave their father behind.
By changing the focus of their hearts to follow Jesus, they
allow him to transform their lives. They will no longer be simply “fishermen”;
he will make them “fishers of men.” This transformation is not limited to the
saints of the past or to priests today. It also occurs in the lives of many
laypeople today. A man recruited students for colleges. After completing his
formation as a lay minister, however, he came to identify himself more as a
minister than as a recruiter. All of us know men and women who are successful
in their careers but stand out even more for their Christian charity.
When we decide to follow Jesus, we experience grace as a
dynamic force that moves us to do good and resist evil. Nevertheless, we will
always encounter challenges that can cause us to stumble and sometimes fall
into sin. Priests may fall in love; laypeople may also become romantically
attracted to someone else. Or it may be drugs or alcohol that lead to our
downfall. In one way or another, we drift away from our discipleship. Even Peter
lost the enthusiasm of his initial commitment.
He denied Jesus three times out of fear when the Lord was arrested.
Yet the Lord called him again. After asking Peter three
times to declare his love, Jesus entrusted him with the care of his flock. Just
as Jesus acted with Peter, he will act with us. If we ask his pardon, Jesus will
forgive our sin and call us once more — not for his sake, but for ours.
Life is a long journey filled with stumbling blocks. We will
likely fail in our original commitment to the Lord. Still, as Saint Paul says
to Timothy, “If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny
himself” (2 Tim 2:13). The Lord is always offering us another opportunity to
respond to his call.