Last Sunday we reflected briefly on the exchange between Christ and the Pharisees in which He delivers the timeless exhortation to “render unto God what is God’s.”

When was the last time something really surprised you? Maybe it was something pleasant, like a sunny day when it was supposed to rain, or someone threw a party in your honor.

Today’s readings hold up for our contemplation two of God’s favorite images of the kingdom: the mountain and the wedding feast. Both of these are powerful symbols of what occurs both in the soul of the believer and also in the liturgy.

The word of God is often consoling, liberating, and healing, but it can also be deeply challenging and downright scary.

Welcome to October! As the leaves change and the sunset gets earlier and earlier, we’re reminded by nature that our time on this earth is limited.

The realities of life often challenge our notions of fairness. One of the foundational questions many of us grapple with, especially in times of crisis or personal loss, is: “Has life been fair to me?”

Forgiveness is a complex aspect of human relationships. As we navigate through life, we often face situations where we must choose to forgive or hold onto grudges. The Scriptures of Sirach 27:30-28:7, St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans 14:7-9, and Matthew 18:21-35 tackle the topic of forgiveness, emphasizing its depth and importance.

Our Scripture readings this weekend offer lessons on love, responsibility, and community accountability. Ezekiel introduces the concept of collective moral responsibility, while Romans emphasizes that the essence of moral obligation is love.

Life is often likened to a journey, but it’s perhaps more apt to envision it as a labyrinth.

Over the past 13 years of my priesthood, I have grown accustomed to wearing my Roman collar when traveling, particularly if I am traveling for parish- or diocesan-related events.