IN TODAY’S FIRST reading, we encounter a very curious piece of Biblical history and a very unique figure indeed.

“ZEAL FOR YOUR house consumes me.” In the Gospel that we read today from the Evangelist John, we are faced with a very different view of the Lord Jesus.

AS IS THE case for most Catholic churches in our country and even throughout the world, there is a large increase in attendance at Mass for major Christian holidays, most especially Christmas and Easter. Over the almost eight years of my priesthood, I have looked forward to welcoming back home our brothers and sisters. I thoroughly enjoy welcoming back those who have been away from the church for a while, due to whatever circumstances may have kept them away.

AS A KID growing up, for as long as I could remember, I had always been told that I had to give something up for Lent. I could never understand the concept of giving up something that you like for 40 days. I remember my parents telling me that Lent is a time to focus on the spiritual gifts that we have, not the material. They were absolutely right.

EVERY THIRD TUESDAY of the month, I celebrate Mass at Concord Nursing Home in Bedford-Stuyvesant. The Missionaries of Charity Sisters, who live in the convent, arranged for this Mass to be celebrated each month. The residents of the nursing home look forward to this Mass, but most especially seeing the sisters.

LAST WEEK’S Scriptures described Jesus breaking the monotony of the lives of a few fishermen, elevating them to become His disciples. Today, we are given a scenario that could potentially take away the peace of people in the synagogue by the presence of a man with an unclean spirit. He is loud. He interrupts.

THE WEEKEND after the feast of the Epiphany takes us back to Ordinary Time and the beginning of the ministry of Jesus. Change can be a challenging experience for many people, which is why this week’s Scripture reflection is appropriate shortly after our celebration of the new calendar year.