This section of Matthew’s Gospel invites us to answer for ourselves, for Christ and for the Church, who we think He is, and what place we want to give our faith in our daily living.
Sunday Scriptures
God’s House Welcomes All Who Seek His Love
It is not always what you say but often how you say it that makes a difference. For example, a husband affectionately calling his wife “honey” is far different from a drunk adult in a restaurant addressing his teenage waitress with the same term. One is romantic, and the other is lecherous. Sometimes nicknames that would be considered offensive from strangers are actually affectionate between friends. This helps solve a difficulty in today’s Gospel.
Through Every Storm, Jesus Walks Near
Last week we heard the Gospel of the multiplication of the loaves. It begins with Jesus wanting a much-needed rest after the death of John the Baptist, but being denied that rest because, upon seeing the crowds, he wanted to meet their needs. This week’s Gospel begins with Jesus claiming that rest.
When Sharing Turns Scarcity Into Plenty
This week’s Gospel recounts the multiplication of the loaves and fishes, where Jesus shows great love and invites everyone to imitate his love.
When Wisdom Changes The View
Let us ask God, like young Solomon, for wisdom. Don’t be afraid to take the big swing like he did, to humbly ask God for that which we could never attain on our own.
From Winter’s Chill to God’s Consolation
May the author of our seasons and salvation, the spirit of the Savior, constantly remind us that we can walk by his light if only we ask. That is our great consolation!
Preparing the Soil of the Soul
In the beginning, John tells us, was the Word. This self-expression of the Father, co-eternal with Him and the Holy Spirit, is perhaps the deepest mystery of our faith.
Rejoicing in Both Freedom and Faith
St. Paul’s words to the Romans remind us of that high bar that God has set for us. He calls us to be in the world but to not belong to it, to be free not only in a political sense but spiritually as well.
Faithful Discipleship Takes First Priority
The words of Jesus challenge just as often as they console, and he does not allow us to harbor any illusions about what following him demands of us.
Speaking God’s Truth Has Never Been Easy!
Speaking the truth (God’s truth) was never easy for prophets or apostles, and it hasn’t gotten any easier, not even for the pope!