Thursday, August 6, 2026

 

Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord

(Daniel 7:9-10.13-14; II Peter 1:16-19; Matthew 17:1-9)

Coming down the mountain, Jesus tells his three disciples that they have had a “vision.”  This word is key.  It indicates that they have seen something extraordinary.  Indeed, they have.  They have glimpsed both past and future.  It is something to tell the whole world about which the disciples will do.

The disciples’ “vision” is of Jesus in the glory of his resurrection.  His clothes are as “white as light.”  More tellingly, Jesus appears as the fulfillment of the Law, given by Moses on his one side, and of the prophets, represented by Elijah on the other.  God is not seen, of course, but He is heard.  “This is my beloved Son with whom I am well pleased;” He says to the disciples, “listen to him.”

In the disciples’ vision we get a peek of our future glory.  Heeding his words as the Father commands, we also will be raised from the dead.  What happened to Jesus is what is going to happen to us if we remain faithful to him.

Wednesday, August 5, 2026

 

Wednesday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Jeremiah 3:1-7; Matthew 15:21-28)

In today’s first reading Jeremiah foresees a united Israel after centuries of division.  Solomon’s sons separated the northern and southern kingdoms.  The lands were devastated by the invasions of first the Assyrians in the north and then the Babylonians in the south.  The gospel indicates how Jesus sees himself bringing the two parts of the ancient kingdom together.

A descendant of David of the southern kingdom but raised in Galilee of the northern kingdom Jesus directs himself to the reunification of both.  From today’s gospel he does not want to complicate his mission by going out to gentiles.  When the Canaanite woman asks a favor, he at first refuses to cross the boundary.  Then he realizes that faith in God and not accidents of geography or history is the determining factor in what makes a true Israelite.  Quite willingly, then, he ministers to the needs of the woman.

Jesus chose twelve apostles representing the tribes of Israel as the foundation of his Church, the New Israel.  But the Church has never excluded any race or nation.  Rather its sole membership credentials have always been faith in Jesus as risen Lord and Baptism.  All people can enjoy the Church’s legacy of the Holy Spirit and eternal life.

Tuesday, August 4, 2026

 

Memorial of Saint John Vianney, priest

(Jeremiah 30:1-2.12-15.18-22; Matthew 14:22-26)

During his long ministry St. John Vianney developed a reputation as a prescient confessor and a strict preacher. Coming of age during the French revolutionary years, he discerned the contours of the Christian life in a landscape of unbelief.  Although he mostly lived in a rural parish, he attracted tens of thousands of people whom he assisted to grow closer to Christ.

Pope St. John XXIII named St. John Vianney the patron of parish priests.  Like all priests, he took a risk something like that of Peter in today’s gospel.  Walking on water seeking the Lord can describe the priestly vocation. The candidate must realize that there will be no wife to give consolation on the journey and no children to provide meaning and assistance.  Rather he must continually look in faith for the Lord’s support. 

In truth, Jesus leads all of us who make a conscientious effort to follow him onto water.  We will at times have to spurn the world’s wisdom and companionship.  We may come to feel like we are sinking.  However, we know that if we trust in him Jesus will not allow us to perish.

Monday, August 3, 2026

 

Monday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Jeremiah 28:1-17; Matthew 14:22-26)

Wendell Berry has been a prolific novelist and naturalist.  Much of his fiction describes a farming town in southern mid-Atlantic America.  In one of his last novels, Berry’s characters display a remarkable love for God and one another.  They are redeemed people who respond humbly and graciously to the Lord’s goodness.  They are what God calls both old and new Israel to be.

Unfortunately, Israel has not always responded so well to the Lord.  At the time of Jeremiah the people of Judah shrugged off the Law’s requirements to both God and the poor.  They are seen in today’s first reading as being threatened by mighty Babylon.  Jeremiah has told them that Babylon is God’s scourge.  It will punish Israel for its unfaithfulness to God’s law.  A false prophet delivers a contradictory message.  He claims that God will deliver the people much like He did when the Assyrians were about to invade one hundred thirty years before.  Of course, this consoling message is proven to be bogus by actual events.

Jesus has enabled our living as God has intended.  He not only taught us humility and love but demonstrated it in his life and death.  Like the characters of Wendell Berry’s fiction, we respond to Christ’s sacrifice by daily living his graciousness.

Sunday, August 2, 2026

 18TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

(Isaiah 55:1-3; Romans 8:35, 37-39; Matthew 14:13-21)

It is not for nothing that Jesus wants to go off alone with the news of the murder of John the Baptist. They knew each other even before their births. It is said that for a time Jesus was a disciple of John. It is certainly true that he was baptized by the great prophet of the Jordan River. Just because John was a man devoted to God, Jesus would want to reflect on the meaning of his death.

The Gospel does not reveal Jesus’ thoughts in the “deserted place,” but how could he not consider that he too might have the same bloody fate? Almost every human being has had such moments wondering about their own demise after hearing of an unexpected death. Just six years ago, the whole world was gripped by the possibility of sudden death. Covid-19 was taking the lives of millions of people of all races, religions, and classes. “What will happen to me if I catch the virus?” we wondered.  Like John, Jesus did not flinch from speaking truth to power.  No doubt he realized that he might have a similar end.

However, what is remarkable in today’s Gospel is that Jesus doesn’t dwell on this possibility. Before long, he is healing the sick who keep coming to him. Perhaps through his reflection on death, Jesus realizes that people seek more than just physical healing. They need a remedy for their souls.

We live in a world with billions of other people. Moreover, since humans have inhabited it for thousands and thousands of years, many more human beings have existed. As if that weren’t enough, there are countless stars in the heavens with possibly inhabited planets. How could we not think that we are like nothing, of no more value than grains of sand in the desert or drops of water in the sea? We wonder if we will be forgotten faster than sounds in the night.

As a remedy for these troubling thoughts, Jesus wants everyone to know God’s concern for her or him. For the large crowd before him, Jesus now has in mind a banquet that will demonstrate his Father's care. They could buy food for sustenance in the villages, but it wouldn't nourish them for long. Instead of mere survival, Jesus wants to provide them with the superabundance of bread proclaimed by the prophet of the Babylonian exile in today’s first reading. This unnamed visionary, whom scholars call "Second Isaiah," sowed seeds of hope among a discouraged people.

Five centuries before Christ, the Jewish exiles in Babylon were languishing. They had lost their homeland, their homes, and probably more than a few relatives and friends. Now, after fifty years of captivity, they hear God's servant speak of the offering of "rich fare." It's not a storehouse full of provisions but a supply of spiritual gifts with which a righteous people could prosper.

In the deserted place, Jesus tells the people to take their places. Then he takes the food at hand (just five loaves and two fish), looks up to heaven, says a blessing, breaks the bread, and gives it to the disciples to distribute. If these actions remind us of the Eucharist, we are thinking with Matthew the Evangelist. The five loaves and two fish, blessed and broken, represent the elements of the Last Supper, where the Eucharist originated.

Let it be said that every time we participate in the Mass, we are nourished by God's superabundance. We know that the bread has been transformed into what Jesus declared it to be at the Last Supper: his Body. Given up, crucified, and risen from the dead, his Body assured his companions at that blessed meal of the superabundance of life. By receiving it worthily, he also gives us the superabundance that does not end, not even with death.

Friday, July 31, 2026

 

Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, priest

A Jesuit website offers five bits of advice gleaned from the life of St. Ignatius Loyola, whom the Church celebrates today. They may help us discern God’s will for us.  First, our daydreams matter.  They indicate what God is saying to our hearts.  After he was injured, Ignatius found himself thinking about being a soldier of Christ, rather than of the Spanish king. 

Second, we can discern God’s calling incorrectly.  It doesn’t matter as long as we persist in seeking the Lord’s guidance.  Ignatius thought his vocation was to serve in the Holy Landi until he went there where the Franciscans, the guardians of the area, turned him away.

Third, we need humility to pursue lifelong learning.  When Ignatius discerned a vocation to the priesthood, he went back to school – grammar school – to learn Latin! He studied with schoolboys, not scholars, to achieve his goal.

Fourth, making friends with good people makes a great difference.  We should entrust our inner lives only with wise and kind people.  They will help us to know ourselves better and to do what is best for all.  Finally arriving at the university, Ignatius befriended Francis and Peter Faber, both of whom were also later canonized as saints.

Finally, communication may significantly help others.  By “staying in touch” we might provide critical support for others.  Ignatius wrote nearly 7000 letters to others Jesuits as well as to royalty, bishops, and those seeking spiritual guidance.

One might say that St. Ignatius of Loyola “invented spiritual direction” by writing the Spiritual Exercises.”  Here are five simple applications of his wisdom.

Thursday, July 30, 2026

 

Thursday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Jeremiah 18:1-6; Matthew 13:47-53)

Preachers today often speak of God’s “unconditional love.”  Rightly understood, the term indicates that God only wants human flourishment.  Unlike humans, God doesn’t reserve His affection for some and withhold it from others.  Yes, God has a special love for the poor, but this does not mean that He does not care as well for the rich. 

Yet it seems that some run too fast with the idea of God’s unconditional love.  They say that it assures everyone a place in the Kingdom.  They make the unfounded claim that nothing anyone does might alienate him or her from eternal life.  A funeral director, who heard many homilies about God’s mercy, said that universal salvation was one of the results of Vatican II!

But, of course, the bishops at the Council arrived at no such conclusion, nor could they do so today.  It would counter Jesus’ teaching in this mass’s parable.  Not all of the huge catch of fish merit keeping.  Some are worthless and are to be discarded.  Nevertheless, we might pray that the “worthless fish” take note and change their ways the second time around.

Wednesday, July 29, 2026

 

Memorial of Saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus

(Jeremiah 15:10.16-21; John:11:19-27)

There’s a running debate on who is the more prominent friend of Jesus in the gospels – Martha or Mary.  Luke seems to give preference to Mary who, as he says, “has chosen the better part …”  However, some preachers, such as the renowned Meister Eckhart, argue in favor of Martha.  In the Gospel of John, however, Martha seems to easily outpoint Mary.

In the passage read today, Martha not only shows a greater compulsion to meet the Lord, she also makes very significant Christological claims.  First, Martha recognizes that Jesus is the Messiah, “… the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world.”  At the same time, she assents – the first person in all the gospels – that Jesus is (that is, embodies) “the resurrection and the life (eternal life).”

Comparing the saints is, for the most part, a fool’s errand.  They are all great because they all loved the Lord with all their being.  Each of us can find patrons among in the panoply of saints to emulate and petition help.  Today we have three excellent ones: Martha who served the Lord, Mary who listened attentively at his feet, and Lazarus whom Jesus himself calls his friend (John 11:11).

Tuesday, July 28, 2026

 

Tuesday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Jeremiah 14:17-22; Matthew 13:36-43)

In today’s first reading Jeremiah describes a war-strewn, devastated Jerusalem. The death and destruction will remind contemporary readers of nuclear war classics like On the Beach and The Road.  There will be no winners of a nuclear war.  Rather, all survivors will be left in grief, horror, and fear of their imminent ends.

The gospel hints at how to avoid nuclear war.  First, evil must be recognized, not only in a nation’s enemies, but – as Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn advised – in every human heart.  Then, as the gospel implies, the nations must learn to tolerate those whose ways they find repugnant and build a strategic defense plan in case hostility overruns civility.

St. Augustine in his monumental work, The City of God, sketches a plan for peace among nations.  He advocates that governments recognize their duty to defend their people; that they use force when necessary to prevent evil from taking hold; and that their cause be just for going into battle and that their soldiers hold the right intention for participating in it. 

Monday, July 27, 2026

 

Monday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Jeremiah 13:1-11; Matthew 13:31-35)

The image of a loin cloth to signify God’s love for His people sounds outrageous to modern ears.  But it does describe a radical intimacy as perhaps only a Hebrew prophet could get away with saying to a religious audience.  Jesus uses a more reserved image for God’s love.  He describes it as the ardor that would make a father wait patiently for a wayward son to return home and then would plead with a defiant son to partake in his joy.

Still acknowledging God’s love can be difficult.  Victims of torture, for example, often feel abandoned by God.  It is said that even the great St. Teresa of Avila once complained, "Lord, if this is how You treat Your friends, no wonder You have so few." 

But we must never forget how God Himself became human and suffered a cruel death. Although he was as innocent as a day-old infant, he surrendered himself to be crucified.  He became our ransom, that is the price for our freedom.  His startling and unfathomable love has given us not only the Church for support but also the Holy Spirit for our guide and eternal life for our destiny.

Sunday, July 26, 2026

 

SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

(1 ​​Kings 3:5-13; Romans 8:28-30; Matthew 13:44-46)

Three scenarios of misfortune. First, your husband has been in an accident. He is injured, and the only car in the house is totaled. You feel deeply distressed. Second, your wife has Alzheimer's. You have placed her in a nursing home. The facility is high-quality, but she doesn't like it there. Every time you visit, she cries, begging you to take her home. The situation is so sad that you no longer want to visit her. Third, your oldest son has become rebellious. He has stopped attending Sunday Mass with the family for a long time and recently dropped out of school. But what has disturbed you most is that yesterday you found a gun in his bedroom.

These situations are not so rare that they could not happen to any of us. They would cause us to examine our lives to see if we've done anything to deserve such a dismal state of affairs. Also, we begin to doubt God's existence, or at least His goodness. We truly don't know what to think, much less what to do.

Then we recall the story of Saint Augustine's conversion. One day, as he was walking in his garden reflecting on his disordered life, he heard a child's voice. The child said, "Take this and read." Augustine found his Bible, opened it, and came across the passage in the Letter to the Romans, which says, “… let us conduct ourselves properly as in the day, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in promiscuity and licentiousness, not in rivalry and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh” (Rom 13:13-14). The experience confirmed his decision to become a Christian.

In our predicaments, it would be helpful to recall another verse from the same Letter to the Romans. It is found in the second reading at Mass today. It says: “… all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose” (8:28). The words dissipate our anxiety. We know that we can handle the difficult situation because God is with us. His presence gives us confidence that nothing can overcome us as long as He supports us. Everything will be “all right.” We now know what Jesus means in the Gospel when he speaks of the “Kingdom of God.” He says that it is worth more than the finest pearl because it assures us of God’s love forever. By maintaining a friendship with God, we can face any difficulty with peace. For who can snatch us out of His hands?

There are several Bible verses that not only capture our attention but also our memory. One is John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Another is Jesus’ commandments of love: “’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second (commandment) is this: Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:29-31). Romans 8:28 is another verse we should never forget: “…all things work together for the good of those who love God…”

Thursday, July 30, 2026

 

Thursday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Jeremiah 18:1-6; Matthew 13:47-53)

Preachers today often speak of God’s “unconditional love.”  Rightly understood, the term indicates that God only wants human flourishment.  Unlike humans, God doesn’t reserve His affection for some and withhold it from others.  Yes, God has a special love for the poor, but this does not mean that He does not care as well for the rich. 

Yet it seems that some may run too fast with the idea of God’s unconditional love.  They say that it assures everyone a place in the Kingdom.  They make to claim that nothing anyone does might alienate him or her from eternal life.  A funeral director, who heard many homilies about God’s mercy, said that universal salvation was one of the results of Vatican II. 

But, of course, the bishops at the Council arrived at no such conclusion nor could they do so today.  It would counter Jesus’ teaching in this mass’s parable of a huge catch of fish.  Some of the haul were good and are prized.  Others are bad and discarded.  A theologian once said that we cannot know if everyone will be saved but we can pray for it.  We also might pray that people who do evil will turn from their misdeeds and make amends.  And while we are at it, let us also pray that we church-goers may be forgiven our many sins.

 

Friday, July 24, 2026

 

Friday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Jeremiah 3:14-17; Matthew 13:18-23)

The Ark of the Covenant was the singular, most holy element of the Jerusalem Temple.  It contained the two tablets of the law, a jar of manna from Israel’s desert wanderings, and Aaron’s miraculous staff.  For unknown reasons the Ark was lost around the beginning of the seventh century before Christ.  As meaningful as the Ark was to the people of Jerusalem, the prophet Jeremiah says that it will be forgotten in today’s first reading.

Jeremiah envisions a new covenant between God and Israel.  It will be characterized by a select people sifted from all over Judah.  The nation’s wise leaders will strive to please the Lord, not themselves or others.  People from all over the world will come to Jerusalem to praise the God of Israel.

Christians recognize this prophecy fulfilled in the Church Jesus leaves behind.  Jerusalem is the Church’s cradle and still serves as its holiest sanctuary city.  More importantly, the Jerusalem community has become a model of pleasing the Lord’s heart.  The Ark of the Covenant has been more than adequately replaced by Mary, who bore God’s Son in her womb.

Thursday, July 23, 2026

 Thursday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Jeremiah 2:1-3.7-8.12-13; Matthew 13:10-17)

The biblical history of Israel is largely a story of human unfaithfulness to a gracious God.  In its beginning Adam and Eve eat the forbidden fruit.  After God frees them from slavery in Egypt, the Israelites grumble against Him in the desert.  In today’s first reading Jeremiah tells of Israel’s prophets betraying the Lord.  Finally, Jesus continually castigates the people for rejecting him as God’s messenger.

Israel’s flaw – and the flaw of all humanity -- is a corrupt heart.  Jeremiah will describe the human heart, especially Israel’s, as “tortuous” and “beyond remedy” (17:9).  it seeks pleasure for its owner, power over others, and prestige among the people.  Somehow this heart must be healed. 

Jesus comes into the story as a heart specialist. He removes the rot of our hearts with miracles and exorcisms.  He teaches our hearts the will of God as their first priority.  His preaching moves our hearts to act on behalf of others. Finally, Jesus leaves behind the Sacraments of Penance and Eucharist so that our hearts may be continually rejuvenated. 

Wednesday, July 22, 2026

 

Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene

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

The word “apostle” is derived from the Greek apostolos which means “one sent forth.” Today we celebrate St. Mary Magdalene, who, in a sense, was the first apostle.  She was the first person Jesus sent forth to announce his resurrection from the dead.

According to Luke’s Gospel, Mary Magdalene along with other women accompanied Jesus and his disciples from Galilee to Jerusalem.  That she was a reformed prostitute is doubtful although she had a serious malady -- perhaps demonic possession as it is considered today -- of which Jesus healed her.  She became his friend as evidenced by her standing at the cross.  She watched him die along with Jesus’ mother, one or two other women, and the “Beloved Disciple.”

Mary Magdalene has become a model for all Christians.  Nowhere in the Gospels does Jesus call Mary to follow him like he does Peter and Matthew.  Evidently, she pursued a prompting of the heart to accompany him.  Like her, then, Jesus heals all of us -- men and women, clergy and lay -- of our sins in Baptism.  Also like her, we follow Jesus as the source of our spiritual life.  Finally, like Mary Magdalene, we announce the Lord’s resurrection by our willingness to sacrifice ourselves for what is true and loving.

 

Tuesday, July 21, 2026

Tuesday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Micah 7:14-15.18-20; Matthew 12:46-50)

Both readings today provide images for the People of God.  The prophet Micah calls the nation of Judah “the flock of (the Lord’s) inheritance.”  The term implies dependency since sheep survive only with the care of their shepherd.  Unlike sheep, however, the people have rebelled against their Lord.  They are doomed unless God shows them mercy which he does.

There is no hint of rebellion in the gospel image.  Jesus calls his disciples “brother, sister, and mother...”  Indeed, they have become his family because they obey the will of God his “Father.”  They have accepted his yoke which they can readily bear with his accompaniment.

 We too have been called into Jesus’ family.  Perhaps we rebel at times by not keeping his commandments.  For our rebelliousness we daily ask his forgiveness.  The outcome is immeasurably satisfying.  We are not only pardoned but also receive Jesus’ eternal brotherly presence.

Monday, July 20, 2026

 

Monday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Micah 6:1-4.6-8; Matthew 12:38-42)

My sister, brother, and I used to ask our mother what she wanted for Christmas, her birthday, or Mother’s Day.  It didn’t matter the occasion, our mother always had the same answer, “good kids.”  She sounds like the Lord God in today’s first reading.

In one of the most cited passages of the Old Testament, the prophet Micah describes a showdown between the Lord and His people.  They are prepared to bring Him all kinds of offerings.  But He does not want, and much less need, anything human-made.  He wants their souls, which he crafted, back.  He wants His people to follow the Law He gave them. He desires a righteous, loving, and humble nation.

We should take care that we become the kind of people the Lord wants.  We must go beyond saying the rosary or even attending Mass to striving to live the Beatitudes.  Of course, receiving the Eucharist, we bring into our lives the one who most perfectly lived them. We need to listen and to do what he tells us.

Sunday, July 19, 2026

SIXTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, JULY 19, 2026

(Wisdom 12:13, 16-19; Romans 8:26-27; Matthew 13:24-43)

A year ago, a storm caused the Guadalupe River in the heart of Texas to rise fifteen yards in forty-five minutes. The flood claimed the lives of 119 people, including 25 girls attending a summer camp on the riverbank. Now, amid lawsuits and accusations of negligence, the victims' relatives are undoubtedly asking, "Why does God allow such disasters?" Today's first reading and Gospel attempt to answer this question, which is often called "the problem of evil."

The first reading from the Book of Wisdom affirms God's justice. It says that he is just because he has power. He can reward or punish people according to their deeds. The passage assures us that evil will not ultimately prevail. God's justice will defeat it while it rewards the innocent in the end.

However, the Book of Wisdom does not explain why God allows the wicked to ruin the lives of some, even taking the lives of children. Ivan Karamazov, a character in a famous Russian novel, is consumed by the problem of evil. He memorably says that as long as God doesn't adequately explain why He allows evil to befall the innocent, he will return his ticket to heaven. That is, since God allows children to suffer, he wants nothing to do with Him, not even to take a seat in heaven that his Baptism promises him. For some, saying that the innocent are destined for heaven and the wicked for hell doesn't justify the pain, sometimes horrific, in present life.

In the Gospel, Jesus uses a parable to explain the problem of evil. He says that, just as you cannot cut the weeds in a field without damaging the wheat, you also cannot eliminate all evil without harming some good people. But at harvest time, the difference between the weeds and the wheat will become clear. Then the weeds can be cut down and burned first, so that only the wheat may be gathered into the barn.

Once again, only in the end will justice be served, with the innocent being pursued and the wicked punished.

Faith has another answer to the problem of evil. It focuses on the story of Jesus Christ. After performing many acts of service, he turned himself in to the authorities. Although completely innocent, he suffered the torment of crucifixion. He died like the worst of criminals, but soon after, God raised him from the dead and placed him at his right hand forever. Now he offers us his story as the definitive answer to our anxiety over evil. He tells us all will be well. We have not only a promise but also the record of Jesus as proof.

We should admit that there is no completely satisfying answer to the problem of evil. Evil is a mystery beyond the grasp of the human mind. However, there remains the hope of the great reckoning at the end of time when Jesus will come to judge all. Through his resurrection from the dead, Jesus gave us a glimpse of the outcome for the innocent. 

In the meantime, we can perform acts of mercy. These acts will not only alleviate some of the suffering of those who are grieving but will also bear witness to Jesus. By taking the time to comfort the afflicted and help the weak, we imitate our Lord Jesus Christ. Furthermore, we will be demonstrating our conviction that he will come to right all the wrongs of history. 

Friday, Jul 17, 2026

 

Friday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Isaiah 38:1-6.21-22.7-8; Matthew 12:1-8)

Not long ago, a group of Catholics, both young and old, were talking together.  Someone mentioned the old practice of abstinence from meat under pain of mortal sin every Friday, like the Church still insists upon during Lent.  The younger people seemed to be amused by the idea.  How could eating meat on any Friday, then or now, be considered a mortal sin?

Certainly, eating meat on Friday is Church, not Divine, Law.  The question becomes, does Church leadership have authority to impose binding obligations on people?   Bishops have a responsibility not only of sanctifying their people but also of evangelizing others.  Given the “keys to the Kingdom,” they can bind people to penitential actions like abstaining from meat.  It is a simple demonstration of our living for God and not to satisfy our appetites.  For this reason, when Catholics publicly defer from eating meat, they indicate to others their love for God.   

We should be aware that although abstinence from meat on Fridays outside of Lent is no longer required, Catholics are still obliged to do penance on Fridays.  As in Jesus’ citing of the prophet Isaiah in today’s gospel, an act of mercy will more than suffice for this penance.  It would be good to see nursing homes or prisons filled with visitors on Fridays trying to carry out their penitential obligation.

Thursday, July 16, 2026

 

Thursday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Isaiah 26:7-9.12.16-19; Matthew 11:28-30)

Today’s reading from the first part of the Book of Isaiah seems misplaced.  It ignores the concerns of the Southern Kingdom for which the original prophet wrote.  In its stead, it speaks of a time of perfect peace when both personal and public conflicts will be resolved.  The people have evidently been chastened by the exile and now find hope in the prospect of resurrection from the dead.

In the gospel Jesus offers himself as the peace of the people.  He bids the poor to accept the yoke of his teaching.  It not only eliminates the intricacies of pharisaical precepts but also connects them to him as a source of strength.  As he declares in the Gospel of John, “’I am the Resurrection and the Life’” (Jn 11:25).

July is a time of extremes.  In the Northern Hemisphere temperatures reach their heights.  The Southern Hemisphere experiences the other extreme.  Most people working outdoors or just commuting to work in either clime are struggling with the weather.  Of course, most everyone has inner conflicts to work through. All can look to the Lord for relief.  Like a body of water at daybreak or nightfall, time with him in prayer brings resolution and hope.

Wednesday, July 15, 2026

 

Memorial of Saint Bonaventure, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

(Isaiah 10:5-7.13b-16; Matthew 11:25-27)

Today’s gospel is understood as an insight into Jesus’ divinity.  The Passage is often introduced as a “Johannine thunderbolt in a Matthean sky.”  Recognizing Jesus as God’s Son is a dominant theme of John’s Gospel.  But Matthew as well has a “high Christology” which sees Jesus very much as divine.

Another critical aspect of the passage is its context.  Jesus has just expressed his frustration with the cities of Galilee for their rejection of him.  “’Woe to Chorazin’” and “’woe to Bethsaida,’” he lamented in yesterday’s gospel.  And yet in this very next passage he praises his Father for enabling the poor, the simple, and public sinners to accept his message.  By no means is Jesus a feint-hearted man.  In both good and bad times he is able to praise God, his Father.

We can see in today’s patron, Saint Bonaventure, a like spirit.  He was both an extremely gifted and a humble person.  Although a professor of theology at the University of Paris, Bonaventure became the leader of the Franciscans. Navigating between the regulars and the Spiritualists of the Order, Bonaventure was able to support the intellectual ministry while maintaining a simple life.

Tuesday, July 14, 2026

 

Memorial of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, Virgin

(Isaiah 7:1-9; Matthew 11:20-24)

Today’s reading gives a classic description of faith. With the Israel-Aram alliance threatening the Kingdom of Judah, God sends Isaiah on mission.  The prophet tells the king of Judah not to worry, but to trust that God will defend His people.  The prophecy becomes reality.  The super-power Assyria smashes the alliance.  But Israel will abandon trust in God as its protector and allies itself with pagan Assyria.

In the gospel Jesus laments the lack of faith in Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum.  These cities have witnessed his mighty deeds and yet refuse to heed his message of repentance and belief.  They cannot abide by his preferential attention to the poor and to sinners.  They refuse to repent of hypocrisy and continue their self-affirming ways.

The lessons of Isaiah and Jesus should affect all of us.  It is tempting to put more trust in medicine and savings for our welfare than in God.  We should always look to God first for salvation by diligent prayer and careful carrying out his will.  It is our faithfulness to Him, not our status in society, that will save us from ruin.

Monday, July 13, 2026

Monday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Isaiah 1:10-17; Matthew 10:34-11:1)

A man tells the story of his daughter.  When she was a teenager, she became pregnant outside marriage.  She wanted to have her baby, but her mother encouraged her to have an abortion.  For the mother, the girl was not only too young to be a mother but also needed to finish her education.  The girl desperately turned to her father who was divorced from his wife.  The man believed in his daughter and promised to help her keep her baby.  Relieved, the girl said that she had bought a bus ticket to another town in case no one would support her at home.  Whether she knows it or not, this girl is following Jesus’ instructions to his apostles in today’s gospel.

It is not that Jesus has abortion in mind as he lectures his apostles.  Rather, he knows that his righteousness will always unleash opposition.  His insistence that divorce opposes the Creator’s intention will cause a furor among those who favor a more lenient standard.  His reaching out to the grubby poor will scandalize those with a high sense of propriety.  In these ways Jesus forces people to choose.  Will they stand with him or conform to the prejudices of their families?

We may not have to choose between family and Jesus.  Our choice may be between Jesus and the urgings of our corrupted hearts.  Will we follow our impulses to illicit sex, or will we resist sinful sexual desires?  Will we continue to impose our will upon others, or will we work out a mutually acceptable agreement? Will we continue to seek others’ approval, or will we daily acknowledge our sinfulness and ask the Lord’s mercy? Facing issues like these, we realize that Jesus does not bring the peace of mind that we desire but a deeper peace that we cannot even imagine.

Friday, July 17, 2026

 

Friday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Isaiah 38:1-6.21-22.7-8; Matthew 12:1-8)

Not long ago, a group of Catholics, both young and old, were talking together.  Someone mentioned the old practice of abstinence from meat under pain of mortal sin every Friday, like the Church still insists upon during Lent.  The younger people seemed to be amused by the idea.  How could eating meat on any day Friday, then or now, be considered a mortal sin?

Certainly, eating meat on Friday is Church, not Divine, Law.  The question become, does Church leadership have authority to impose binding obligations on people?   Bishops have a responsibility not only of sanctifying their people but also of evangelizing others.  Given the “keys to the Kingdom,” they can bind people to penitential actions like abstaining from meat.  It is a simple demonstration of our living for God and not to satisfy our appetites.  For this reason, when Catholics publicly defer from eating meat, they indicate to others their love for God.   

We should be aware that although abstinence from meat on Fridays outside of Lent is no longer required, Catholics are still obliged to do penance on Fridays.  As in Jesus’ citing of the prophet Isaiah in today’s gospel, an act of mercy will more than suffice for this penance.  It would be good to see nursing homes or prisons filled with visitors on Fridays trying to carry out their penitential obligation.

Sunday, July 12, 2026

 

FIFTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
(Isaiah 55:10–11; Romans 8:18–23; Matthew 13:1–23)

This Gospel passage is both familiar and difficult to understand. We have heard it countless times, and we know that the different kinds of soil represent different kinds of people. These images are so striking that many people pay little attention to the second part of the passage. There Jesus indicates that some fail to understand the parable because they have already rejected the basic message of his preaching. Let us look once again at the parable before trying to understand how some people reject Jesus’ message.

We know that the Parable of the Sower appears in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. It is also found in a shortened but more powerful form in the Gospel of John.  Shortly before his Passion, Jesus says, “Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat; but if it dies, it produces much fruit” (John 12:24). In Matthew, Mark, and Luke, the soil must be rid of obstacles in order for the grain to bear fruit. In John, the emphasis is on the grain dying in the ground so that it may have an abundant harvest.  

In all four gospels the grain represents the word of God. Yet “the word” in Matthew, Mark, and Luke has a different referent than in John. The first three gospels present the “word of God” as God's message proclaimed and heard, much like the prophet describes it in today's first reading. Isaiah says that the word that goes forth from God's mouth always accomplishes His purpose.  It always brings salvation to God’s people. In John's Gospel, however, the “word of God” is Jesus himself who dies on the cross to redeem humanity from sin and death.

In Matthew, Mark, and Luke, Jesus explains the meaning of the parable. The seed that falls on the path cannot bear fruit because the birds devour it before it can sprout. It is like busybodies who don't focus on God's word but get carried away by life’s trivialities. Rocky ground doesn't yield a harvest because it is hard and shallow. It represents those who initially want to serve God but then lose heart when trials of death, duplicity, and hardship come. The thorny ground also fails to bear fruit because the thorns choke the young plants. It represents those who allow power, prestige, and pleasure to suffocate God's inspiration within their hearts. To bear abundant fruit, we must free ourselves from everything that prevents us from making a priority of loving God and neighbor.

Now let us consider the challenging part of today's Gospel. Jesus says that he speaks in parables because there are people who have eyes but do not see, and ears but do not hear or understand. These are the people who have rejected his basic message of “repent and believe.”  Their hearts resist loving others and forgiving those who have offended them. For them, the parables remain little more than foolish riddles.

Pope Francis used to observe that there is a crucial difference between sinners and the corrupt. He said that there is hope for sinners to repent but the corrupt have become so hardened that they no longer recognize their need for conversion. This group certainly includes assassins and pimps, but it can also include people who have become so rigid that, although they attend Mass, they do not want to hear about mercy and love.

All of us should ask ourselves if we have tendencies like those of this latter group. If we discover that our hearts have become hardened to loving others, if we find ourselves being increasingly self-absorbed, then we must repent without delay. The Lord never stops loving us. He is always ready to soften our hearts, to help us love others, and to enable us to bear abundant fruit for His Kingdom.

Friday, July 10, 2026

 

Friday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Hosea 14:2-10; Matthew 10:16-23)

In Robert Frost’s memorable poem, “Tree at my Window,” the poet compares a tree to himself.  He says that like the tree he sees in a storm, he tosses and turns in his sleep.  But as the tree, moored to the earth, does not fall, he survives his restless nights.  In today’s reading from the prophet Hosea compares the people of Israel to different trees.

Unmoored from idols and connected to God, Israel is as strong and fragrant as a Lebanon cedar.  The people are gloriously fruitful like an olive tree.  Also, like the protection the cedar and the cypress provide, they raise grain to nourish themselves. 

Like Israel, we must rid ourselves of idols so that we might thrive like a redwood or a giant oak.  Idols, of course, include more than metals objects some think of as bringing them good luck.  Idols are what we wrongly consider as sources of full happiness.  They can be sports teams, rock stars, perhaps our cars or our telephones.  We must acknowledge the Lord as the source of all good things and duly give Him thanks and praise.

Thursday, July 9, 2026

 

Thursday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Hosea 11:1-4.8e-9; Matthew 10:7-15)

Today when people set out on a journey they take more than what they need.  “Just in case,” they say, they carry clothes for the fall on a summer journey and a few hundred dollars more than what they anticipate spending.  Their concern with having enough contrasts with Jesus’ lesson for his missionaries in today’s gospel.

Jesus wants his apostles to preach the imminent coming of the Kingdom of God.  They are to show evidence of the Kingdom by their ministry to the sick and to the mentally disturbed.  Also, their own dependency upon God anticipates the immediacy of His Kingdom’s presence. They are not to take money, nor clothes other than what they wear, nor even a walking stick to help them traverse rough terrain.

Do Jesus’ instructions have any bearing on how we live today?  To be sure, it is meant for missionaries, not vacationers or salespersons on business.  Yet it warns us about greed.  We are not to let our risk-aversion culture make us worry about what may happen.  Rather we are to be practice what was called “liberality” by classical philosophers.  Liberality is the virtue that enables us to use our resources for the good of all. It frees us from fussing about whether we will always have enough so that we might help those now facing legitimate crises.

Wednesday, July 8, 2026

 

Wednesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Hosea 10:1-3.7-8.12; Matthew 10:1-7)

The readings from the prophet Hosea these past two days tell of sowing and reaping.  Yesterday the prophet warned that if Israel sows the wind, it will reap the whirlwind.  The wind is the panoply of false gods – money, pleasure, power, and prestige.  Hosea means that any people who strives primarily for these vanities is bound to wreak havoc upon itself.  This result was evidenced after World War I, the so-called “Great War.”  After the Allied powers imposed heavy penalties upon Germany, a second, more disastrous war followed.

In today’s reading Hosea pleads with Israel to “sow for yourselves” justice so that it may “reap the fruit of piety.”  If a nation endeavors to put into practice the Lord’s justice, it will be duly rewarded.  After World War II, the United States established the Marshall Plan to rebuild Europe.  As a result, in not too many years the whole continent flourished economically.  The United States had markets for its products as well as the goodwill of the world.

We sometimes see slogans like “follow your dreams” or “do what your feelings tell you.”  Such advice might lead to “sow(ing) the wind.”  We are wise to think through our dreams and feelings to see where they are leading.  If they move us to love God and neighbor, then yes, let’s consider them seriously.  If not, let’s find fruitful alternatives.

Tuesday, July 7, 2026

 

Tuesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Matthew 9:32-38; Hosea 8:4-7.11-13)

Today’s gospel passage represents a bridge from the first to the second of five sections making up the body of Matthew’s Gospel.  In the first section Jesus delivers his great Sermon on the Mount and begins his ministry of healing and exorcising.  The reading tells of an exorcism and then summarizes Jesus’ work.

The second section begins by noting Jesus’ compassion. He responds to the people’s need for pastoral guidance by drawing his disciples’ attention to it.  But rather than immediately sending them out to minister, he asks them to pray to God.  All pastoral ministry should begin by petitioning the help of the Holy Spirit. Jesus will soon give his “apostolic discourse” instructing his disciples on how to proclaim the gospel.

 It is often said that the gospels are not biographies of Jesus.  Rather they were presentations of events in his life that show why early Christians believed in him as Lord.  Their writers were skilled theologians and dramatists who were utterly convinced that Jesus saves believers from their sins.  They give us additional reason to move beyond our doubts and to follow Jesus with all our hearts.

Monday, July 6, 2026

 

Monday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Hosea 2:16.17c-18.21-22; Matthew 9:18-26)

Today’s reading from the prophet Hosea complements the history of Israel whose story was told at Mass during the last few weeks.  Hosea prophesied in Israel during the period of its corruption and downfall.  The people abandoned the justice which God’s law sought to establish.  Instead of absolute worship of the Lord God and care for the oppressed, the well-to-do people of both Northern and Southern Kingdoms chose self-gratification and worship of indulgent gods.  The result was disaster.

Hosea writes of a future time when Israel would recognize the true God who rescued their ancestors from slavery and endowed them with a law of moral perfection.  The prophet identifies Israel with a wanton woman who is left in distress.  God calls this woman into the desert of penance where she recognizes her sins and returns to the Lord, her Creator and Redeemer.  Once forgiven, she becomes the Lord’s bride in a union of faithful love.

We recognize the marriage taking place in Jesus’ union with Israel’s remnant which forms the Church.  His cross has cleansed the people of their sins. His resurrection has made her his bride for eternity.  We become his bride when we renounce desires to live for pleasure or power over others.  We also pledge ourselves to God’s honor and glory.  As troubled as our social environment has become, giving ourselves solely to him is a tall order.  But we must not reject it because it promises fullness of life.

Sunday – July 5, 2026

 

FOURTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME 
(Zechariah 9:9-10; Romans 8:9, 11-13; Matthew 11:25-30)

Of all the symbols of the United States, none attracts more attention than the Statue of Liberty. This colossal monument was a gift from France, originally intended to commemorate the nation's centennial in 1876. It was placed on a small island near New York Harbor so that immigrants arriving from Europe could see it as they entered the country.

Now, as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation, the Statue of Liberty stands as a tribute to the ideals of the United States. From its very beginning, this country has offered freedom, justice, and opportunity to millions of immigrants from every part of the world. It has given them the chance to participate in a society governed by the rule of law rather than by the privileged.

Inscribed on the pedestal of the statue is a poem that captures the spirit of the nation. One of its most famous lines is known by schoolchildren across the country: "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free..." The poem was written by a Jewish woman who worked with immigrants. Her words inspired hope in the hearts of the poor and the oppressed, offering them the promise of a better life. They also bear a remarkable resemblance to the words of Jesus in today's Gospel: "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest."

Of course, Jesus' invitation is far more than an offer of political asylum or material prosperity. Rather, it is a call to lasting peace and eternal happiness through a close relationship with him. Trusting in Christ frees us from the anxiety that afflicts so many people who make wealth, prestige, and pleasure the supreme goals of life. Although these values are not evil in themselves, they cannot give us the fullness of life that Christ won for us. Indeed, when pursued without restraint, they can even lead to ruin.

Jesus gives us that fullness of life when we accept his gentle yoke. His yoke—the beam that joins us to him—is his teaching. At times those teachings challenge us, as when he insists that we forgive those who have wronged us. But we should always remember that Jesus is at our side, helping us carry the burden. His friendship comforts us, and his strength makes our load lighter.

It would not be accurate to say that the United States is a Christian nation. Nevertheless, our country has incorporated many values inspired by Christianity, such as equality, freedom, and a welcoming spirit toward the poor and the refugee. On this Independence Day weekend, let us thank God for these principles. At the same time, let us pray that America will continue to live by them. They have been a source of our nation's strength and greatness. And as we strive to remain faithful to these ideals, may God continue to bless the United States.

 

Friday, July 3, 2026

 

Feast of Saint Thomas, apostle

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

Earlier in his gospel as in today’s reading, John says that Thomas is also called “Didymus.” This is the Aramaic version of the Greek name “Thomas.”  In both languages the words mean “twin.” John’s explanation of the name does not seem to be parenthetical.  Rather he may be suggesting that we identify with him.  We are Thomas’ twin.  Like Thomas, we are on a journey to know the Lord.  Of course, our journey is spiritual where Thomas is both physical and spiritual.

Thomas is introduced in the gospel as Jesus decides to return to Judea to raise Lazarus from the dead.  When the other disciples warn Jesus of the danger of the return, Thomas enthusiastically proclaims, “Let us also go to die with him.” As young men and women the thought of dying for Christ was attractive to us as well.  We thought of ourselves as becoming heroes praised by the people and assured of a martyr’s reward.  But aging often wears the soul as well as the body.  We become more cautious not wanting to cut short the years remaining to us.  Thomas becomes skeptical of Jesus’ resurrection.  He will not believe when the other disciples tell him that they have seen the Lord.  In the same vein, we begin to doubt the value of martyrdom. However, when the risen Jesus appears to him, Thomas professes faith that he is Lord.

Not because we have seen the risen Lord but because we have witnessed his glory, we profess faith in the Resurrection and the Lordship of Jesus.  What have we observed?  We have heard stories of the saints and have known holy men and women whose lives manifested an uncompromising love of Christ. We have noted how Christian doctrine quite sensibly coordinates both Scripture and experience.  And who of us has not prayed to Jesus and not found our requests honored?  We know that the Lord Jesus lives and follow the road he marked for us in the gospels.  If God calls us to martyrdom, we will not run away from it.

Thursday, July 2, 2026

 

Thursday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Psalm 19)

The psalm response today gave rise to a memorable line of Abraham Lincoln: “The judgments of the Lord are true and all of them just.” Lincoln was reflecting on the Civil War in his magisterial Second Inaugural Address shortly before his assassination.  He lamented how the war devastated the land and slaughtered its people.  Yet at the same it facilitated God’s purpose of ending slavery in the nation.

The psalm itself gives tribute to God’s creation.  It begins with a reflection on the sun which comes and goes every day as it warms the earth.  The psalm continues with a paean to God’s law.  Like the sun, the law is unrelenting in its benefit for the people.  It instructs all as it lays down the rules for a just society.

As the United States celebrates its two hundred and fiftieth anniversary, it should thank God especially for Abraham Lincoln.  As its president, he led the people to a self-understanding that coordinated its high aspirations with the people’s deep Biblical faith. 

Wednesday, July 1, 2026

 

Wednesday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Amos 5:184-15.21-24; Matthew 8:28-34)

In the middle of the eighth century before Christ, the Kingdom of Israel’s prosperity reached spectacular heights.  Assyria, the major power in the region, had just smashed the Kingdom of Aram-Damascus leaving Israel in charge of the region’s commerce.  Its wealthy citizens increased their coffers with taxes, tariffs, and the cultivation of cash crops.  Meanwhile, Israel’s poor suffered from being drafted, paying taxation, having crop failures, and losing their land.  To survive they borrowed from the rich at exorbitant interest. 

Amos, a farmer from the Kingdom of Judah, found himself in the Northern Kingdom preaching against social injustice.  It was not only the economic imbalance that enraged him.  Also, rich people’s attempt to appease God with luxurious peace offerings moved Amos to diatribe.  He spoke out as strongly as any prophet that justice pleases the Lord, not fancy liturgy or abundant offering.  As the rich were looking forward to the Day of the Lord for even greater profits, Amos promised that the Day would bring them ruin.

As the United Sates celebrates its 250^th anniversary, the country must question whether its prosperity reflects the injustices of Israel.  Certainly many Americans are generous, and the government has fostered poverty programs both domestically and internationally.  Yet consumption among Americans may be greater than what is truly beneficial, and many poor Americans are not developing their potential.  Solutions to these problems are complex and difficult.  Money is hardly all that is needed.  Community is necessary as is personal awareness that we should not live exclusively for ourselves but to also assist others.   

Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Tuesday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Amos 3:1-8.4:11-12; Matthew 8:23-27)

At this point in the Gospel of Matthew the disciples have heard Jesus preach with authority and heal the sick.  But they haven’t as yet considered his divinity.  In today’s reading they are made to wonder about him in this way.

It is said that the passage reflects the condition of the early Church.  Troubles arise in the newly formed communities like violent storms.  The Church, still small, struggles as a tiny ship on a violent sea.  Jesus, ascended to heaven, seems incommunicable as if he were asleep.  The men and women who have accepted the faith petition the Lord like the disciples in the sinking boat, “Lord, save us! We are perishing!”  Jesus’ demonstration of saving power makes them ask with the disciples, “What sort of man is this, whom even the winds and the sea obey?”

Instead of worrying over troubles, we should call on Jesus early and often.  Perhaps at such moments we begin to think that he is not there.  But he is always ready to help us.  There is another occasion when we begin to lose faith in Jesus.  When we are being tempted, we may think, “Who cares if what I do is wrong? God? He doesn’t exist.” We are kidding ourselves.  God knows what we are doing.  Because He loves us, He does not want us to leave the way to eternal life with him.

Monday, June 29. 2026

 

Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles

(Acts 12:1-11; II Timothy 4:6-8.17-18; Matthew 16:13-19)

An ancient tradition tells the story of St. Peter fleeing Rome during Nero’s persecution in the first century.  On the way, he meets the Lord going the other way.  Peter asks Jesus in Latin, “Quo vadis, Domine?” (Where are you going, Lord?) Jesus answers, “I am going to Rome to be crucified again.”  Peter, ashamed that he was once again denying Jesus, turns around and gives his life as a martyr.

Of course, Peter repented of cowardice in the gospel as well. Evidently, he was a man of tremendous ability – a type A character – and it was probably for this reason that the Lord entrusts him with the “keys of the Kingdom” in today’s gospel. But he, like all of us, could sin.  St. Paul, as well, gravely offended God by at first not recognizing Christ’s glory and then by persecuting the Church.  He also repented, rendered Christ magnificent service as a teacher, and died a martyr.

Saints Peter and Paul exemplify how Christians are a community of saints.  All of us have sinned and, when truth is told, continue to fail the Lord.  Yet asking God’s forgiveness, we pick up our walking stick to continue the journey of love and truth.  We can count on Christ’s help.  As he showed Peter the way to go in the tradition of “Quo vadis?” he will lead us through the Church which Peter led and Paul taught. 

Sunday, June 28, 2026

 

THIRTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – June 28, 2026
(2 Kings 4:8-11, 14-16; Romans 6:3-4, 8-11; Matthew 10:37-42)

With the celebration of our nation's semiquincentennial approaching, we should declare ourselves grateful both for our country—whether by birth or by adoption—and for our Catholic faith. We can add that we are loyal to both. Our participation in American society has secured for us the rights necessary to live with dignity, while our baptism has bestowed upon us the inheritance of eternal life.

Today, the Catholic Church is the largest religious community in the United States. The current Vice President is Catholic, as was the previous President. A majority of the members of the Supreme Court are Catholic, as are many members of the Senate and the House of Representatives. And many Catholics have given their lives defending this country.

Yet Catholics were not always welcomed in American society. During the colonial period, laws existed that prohibited the public practice of the Catholic faith and voting rights to Catholics. Although the Constitution guaranteed religious freedom, in the years before the Civil War a political party arose whose sole purpose was to limit Catholic influence. After the war, the Ku Klux Klan directed its hostility first against African Americans and later against Catholics and Jews. And when John Kennedy ran for President, he had to face the hateful accusation that he would obey the Pope before obeying the laws of the nation.

That accusation touches on a statement Jesus makes in today's Gospel. When He says, “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me,” we could, in a sense, substitute “country” for “father or mother.” The Catechism discusses our duties toward civil authority within its treatment of the Fourth Commandment (nos. 2234-2257). Is it true, then? Should we love Jesus more than our country? Of course, we should.

For the most part, there is no conflict between love of country and love of God. Love of country—patriotism—is tied to our participation in the temporal society in which we live. Love of God is associated with our participation in the eternal society to which we are called. The two loves have different focuses, and so we can possess both. It is like belonging both to a labor union and to the Knights of Columbus. In fact, the two loves support one another. While our civil society guarantees the freedom to worship God, the eternal society of God's Kingdom insists that its members be just and honest citizens of the earthly society in which they live.

There is another reason why these two loyalties should not conflict. God is the supreme common good. When we honor God with all our hearts, we contribute to the common good, which is the very purpose of civil government.

Unfortunately, sooner or later conflicts arise between the state and the law of God. For some time now there have been proposals that would require physicians to perform abortions or, at the very least, refer pregnant women to those who do. Both actions are contrary to our faith. Likewise, from time to time we hear proposals that would require priests to reveal what they have heard in Confession regarding the abuse of children. I can say that I would never violate the seal of Confession for any reason whatsoever, and I expect no other priest to do so either.

Part of our love for God is obeying Him when He speaks to us through a faith-formed conscience. Our attitude should be similar to that of the presidential candidate John Kennedy. When asked whether there could ever be a situation in which he would follow his faith rather than the law, he replied: “…if the time should ever come — and I do not concede any conflict to be even remotely possible — when my office would require me to either violate my conscience or violate the national interest, then I would resign the office…”

Let us conclude with the words of a saint about what to do when a conflict arises between faith and government. St. Thomas More was about to be executed for refusing to recognize the king as head of the Church. His last words were: “I die the King's good servant, but God's first.”

 

Friday, June 26, 2026

 

Friday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

(II Kings 25:1-12; Matthew 8:1-4)

Did you ever have to make a decision where there seemed to be no good options?  Say your daughter wants a “destination wedding” outside the Church.  You not only cannot approve the invalid marriage, you also doubt the couple’s maturity.  Should you support your daughter by attending the wedding?   In both readings today someone makes a decision when the options are not apparently favorable.

Behind the scenes in the first reading King Zedekiah is caught between losing support of his base and ignoring the Word of God spoken through the prophet Jeremiah.  In the gospel Jesus is confronted by a leper who asks healing.  Either he will touch the man and show authority over the law or disappoint the oppressed leper.  Zedekiah opts against God’s Word, but Jesus, who is the Word, lives up to it.

We must not be afraid to abide by the Word of God.  He speaks to us through Scripture, the Church, and our consciences.  Walking with him will, at times, bring hardship.  However, we will end stronger and already close to eternal life.

Thursday, June 25, 2026

 

Thursday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

(II Kings 24:8-17; Matthew 7:21-27)

Did you ever notice yourself saying grace before eating when people are around but forgetting to do it when you are alone?  I have.  It is disconcerting to think that Jesus may forsake me for my pretension as indicated in today’s gospel.

Or perhaps we have given a sizeable amount to Catholic Charities and now figure that the Lord will overlook our pettiness with family and friends.  He is saying today that he expects better from us.  He does not care about any “mighty deeds” that we have done.  Rather what matters is our attention to the everyday details of a holy life: prayer, humility, kindness.

We may think we are as good as the next guy and better than most, but such calculation does not impress Jesus.  He calls us to perfection and sends us the Holy Spirit to make that happen.  If we focus on our accomplishments and not on his words, we settle for less and may end up disappointed.  But if we do good because Jesus has told us to do it, without aiming to impress him or anyone else, then we will find ourselves in his gracious company forever.

Wednesday, June 24, 2026

 

Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist

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

A man in his second career was having a “mountaintop experience.”  His wife had just given birth to their first child.  He looked at the baby and recognized his replacement.  Or so it seemed at the moment.  God-loving people will allow the possibility of the Lord’s shaping the destiny of their progeny in ways unthought of.

Elizabeth and Zachariah prove themselves such people in today’s gospel.  For years they have waited for their newborn.  Like the people surrounding them, they had probably presumed that he would be called “Zachariah” and follow in his father’s career path.  But when it all happened, they were aware enough of God’s hand in their son’s becoming to name their son “John” as the Lord indicated to them.

John did not follow his father as a priest, but he did manifest his father’s submission to God’s authority.  He had thought that the Messiah would purify the people with fire so to speak.  Then he met Jesus and recognized in him another kind of saving power.  John gave up his pretension of how the Messiah would fulfill his promise.  In John’s eyes Jesus was the lamb and not the lion of God.

We too should align our hopes and expectations with the Lord’s.  Our lives, after all, are not about ourselves but about Him.  This may mean a career change when we enjoy what we are doing.  It certainly necessitates our following His commands and not our own instincts and feelings.    We do it for Him who will compensate us more than we imagine.

Tuesday, June 23, 2026

 

Tuesday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

(II Kings19:9b-11.14-21.31-35a.36; Matthew 5:6.12-14)

The kings of Judah and Israel were often as corrupt as tyrannical strongmen today.  They feigned piety while using their position of power to satisfy mundane desires.  King Hezekiah of Judah, however, was an exception to this rule.  Acting contrary to his unfaithful father, he destroyed idols and reformed public worship.  In his greatest trial he turned to the Lord for mercy and was not denied.

We read today the account of Assyria’s siege of Jerusalem.  Having subjected the Northern Kingdom, its powerful army and was bearing on Hezekiah’s Southern Kingdom.  The king recognized his desperate situation and prayed to the Lord for deliverance.  In one of the most remarkable turnabouts in recorded history, Assyria retreated without assaulting Jerusalem.

God hears the prayer of His faithful servants.  We can live assured of this.  His response to our request is not always what we desire, but it does bring us peace.  Having fulfilled His will, we can look forward to experiencing now the beginnings of His glory.

Monday, June 22, 2026

 

(Optional) Memorial of Saint John Fisher, Bishop and Saint Thomas More, Martyrs

(II Kings 17:5-8.13-15a.18; Matthew 7:1-5)

Today’s first reading demonstrates the viewpoint of the Deuteronomic author (or authors).  This writer composed or at least edited the Book of Deuteronomy and several other Old Testament works including the two Books of Kings.  Deuteronomic theology sounds to many rather karma-like.  It teaches that if you do good, you will be rewarded and if you do bad, you are doomed.

In the first reading the tit-for-tat is straight forward.  The Samarians (that is the inhabitants of the Northern Kingdom (also called Israel and Ephraim) repeatedly violated Israel’s law.  They paid for their transgressions with deportation from their land.  Today’s gospel is more conventional, at least for Christians. Jesus tells his disciples not to judge, by which he means not to condemn others quickly.  If they do, he warns, God’s judgment of them in eternity will be swift and severe.

We see the two martyrs in this conventional light.  Both were beheaded for testifying to the supreme authority of the pope in the Church.  They are remembered after almost 500 years among England’s most renowned saints.  Thomas More has been lionized by the play and movie A Man for All Seasons.  John Fisher is recognized as a brilliant bishop whose theology influenced the Council of Trent.  More importantly, they have been rewarded with seats in the Kingdom of heaven.

Sunday, June 21, 2026

 

TWELFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, JUNE 21, 2026

(Jeremiah 20:10-13; Romans 5:12-15; Matthew 10:26-33)

Once again the gospel today imparts a basic lesson for growth in the spiritual life. The passage is taken from Jesus' “apostolic discourse,” one of the five lessons that along with their accompanying narratives constitute the body of Matthew’s Gospel. We can think of it as preliminary instructions for the great sending of the apostles at the end of the work.

As Pope Saint John Paul II used to tell all Catholics, Jesus warns his apostles: “'Do not fear.'” Afraid of what? In the first three centuries of the Church, the lives of Christians were in danger because of their beliefs and practices. This type of persecution still exists in China, several Muslim countries and some parts of Africa. But it is rare in Western nations.

However, there is another type of fear among us. Many fear being belittled or considered out of touch and not “cool” if they live the faith as the Catechism teaches. That is, if we insist on attending Sunday mass even though we have to drive twenty miles or if we leave a movie theater that shows nudity. Some may make fun of us now. But it should not surprise us that in twenty years we will be remembered for having dedicated ourselves to a cause as noble as the conspiracy of charity that is the Catholic Church.

Jesus does not say that all kinds of fear are unnecessary. In fact, he recommends fear of the one “who can throw our soul and body into the place of punishment.” Unfortunately, he does not mention who he is referring to. Who can throw us into hell? Some Bible commentators have said that he has in mind God, his Father. Others think he means the devil. But isn't it true that both – God and the devil – are formidable and merit fear?

We think of the devil more as a person who can seduce us to perdition than as someone who could throw us there. However, the effect would be the same: the perpetual loss of happiness. By the way, if we do not accept terms like “devil” and “Satan,” we can change them to “evil” or “the web of evil.” What we are saying is that our natural tendencies toward  goods such as pleasure, power, and prestige can become disordered so that they suffocate us. That is, they can extinguish our desire to have just relationships with God and neighbor.

Certainly God can throw us into hell, but would He? Maybe not in the sense of forcing us out of His care. However, He has created us with free will to be responsible men and women. Furthermore, he has sent us his own Son to break the bonds of sin and light the paths to justice. If we wish to reject all these advantages, He will not prevent us from separating ourselves from Him.

Yes, we must fear God, particularly when we lack maturity. But once we grow in wisdom, fear turns into love like a caterpillar turns into a butterfly. We recognize that our happiness remains with Him and not with the praise of drinking buddies. For this reason, the Word of God stipulates that fear of God is only “the beginning of wisdom.” We are truly wise when we cling to God like a child to his father in the middle of a crowd at a soccer match.

Since we have mentioned soccer, we can conclude with a comment about the World Cup. In previous years the competition was associated with much illicit pleasure. Obviously, the participants in the disordered activities were immature people despite being millionaires. They needed the fear of God to put them on the right path. But fans who are also friends of God always thank him for having created athletes with such skill as a Lionel Messi or a Kylian Mbappé. For them, football is an exciting pastime, but not as importance as Sunday mass.  It gives them even more reason to glorify God for all He has done.