Imagine the array of emotions the woman must have felt when others accused her of being a sinner. Guilt, shame, embarrassment, fear, confusion. Then think of what she must have thought when she saw Jesus. What was this man doing writing on the ground with his finger. Would he even lift that finger to help her out? When he does…
What is your experience of mercy? When have you received it? Do you allow yourself to receive it? In a very famous painting of the Prodigal Son painted by Rembrandt, the son is clearly at the end of a long, hard journey; he's missing a shoe, and he's dirty and haggard. Some of our spiritual journeys may feel similar, especially…
When was the last time you felt you were in the presence of God? On a retreat? In the presence of nature? Holding a newborn baby? (Or maybe you're not sure you've ever felt this way?) Today, we hear about the Transfiguration, when Peter, James, and John have an encounter with Jesus in all his glory. After hearing the voice…
In a world that runs on convenience, fasting is out of step for many, even for us Catholics. If I have a need I fill it. If something is hard, I find and easier way. And is that bad in itself? Of course not! The point of Lent isn't to cause suffering or seek discomfort. What we're pursuing during Lent…
With a lifelong struggle against pride and judgementalism, today's Gospel touches us deeply. It is so easy to find the problems that other people have, even in those whom we love very much. Jesus doesn't deny that other people also make mistakes, but invites to first focus on our own mistakes. The important thing is that we are honest and…
When each day comes with bickering and fighting between other people, even if you like them or they are part of your family, Jesus' words about turning the other cheek, giving generously, and loving our enemies might seem like a pipe dream. They're challenging for everyone! It is easy to speak tenderly in the middle of a sweet moment, but…
In their paradoxical promises, the Beatitudes reveal a central truth about the human condition: sorrow and joy are inextricably linked. Sadly, many lives seem heavily weighted with the first. In the Beatitudes Jesus speaks blessings to those who suffer, yet without promising to alleviate their suffering in this life. Sounds like a tough sell, doesn't it? So why have these…
What's your experience of Christian community? Are you blessed with many friends, enjoying the full support of a community that shares your values and desire for heaven? Or do you feel isolated, as though it's just you and your family alone in the world? Maybe you're wondering what authentic community even looks like. It's difficult to live a Christian life…
Simeon's beautiful prayer in the temple, "Now, Master, you may let your servant go in peace, according to your word, for my eyes have seen your salvation," is a prayer of abandonment to the Lord and of thanksgiving for the grace of beholding the infant Savior. This prayer is is repeated in the tradition of night prayer. Can I place…
In today's Gospel, Jesus proclaims that he is the one prophesied to save Israel, the Messiah sent from God to bring healing to the world. The prophet Isaiah's description of the restoration he brings resonates to this day; the poor are given hope, eyes are opened, the oppressed set free. It's a vision that's inspired centuries of sacrifice by missionaries,…