He Humbled HimselfPalm Sunday (March 25, 2018)

“The name which is above every name.”

Opening Prayer: Jesus, You are my model for humility, my model for obedience. Grant me the grace to exemplify this same humility in my own life. When I am tempted to turn away from You and disobey Your command, lead me back to You. Amen.

PROCESSION Mark 11:1-10 or John 12:12-16FIRST READING Isaiah 50:4-7RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 22:8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24SECOND READING Philippians 2:6-11GOSPEL Mark 14:1--15:47

Beyond WordsWhat more can be said of these readings? Almost all of us – even atheists – are familiar with the story of the Passover meal (the Last Supper), the events in the Garden of Gethsemane, the betrayal, the fake “trial,” the denial by Peter, the scourging, the condemnation by Pilate and the people, and the eventual cCrucifixion. So, perhaps the question to ask is, “Why do we still stop to read and meditate upon them? What ‘more’ is there to be gained?”

This is the question we should prayerfully consider and the posture we should take this week. What more does the Holy Spirit want to reveal to us about God’s love? What more might we get out of the Holy Week activities at our parish or in our own personal prayer if we make time to read the Gospel outside of Mass in the coming days? Will Isaiah’s prophecy or St. Paul’s letter to the Philippians come even more to life after reading Christ’s Passion? What if we spent a half hour just reading and praying the entirety of Psalm 22 – the first line of which was quoted by Psalm our Lord quoted just one line from upon the cross?

Make time to enter into these readings in the next week or so. Journal about them. Use them when praying the Sorrowful Mysteries. Try lectio divina and really put yourself into each scene. Ask yourself what it looked like, and what it smelled like, and what it felt like at that moment upon which you’re meditating. Really take your time. God will undoubtedly bless your efforts and, eventually, your Easter celebration.

Random Fact You may notice a seemingly “odd” detail during Jesus’ arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane, when a young follower of Jesus (not one of the apostles) runs away and is inadvertently stripped naked of his cloak to escape capture. Scholars have debated its historical and symbolic significance over the centuries. One popular notion is that the young man is actually St. Mark, author/scribe of the Gospel, referring to himself – though not by name – by and, in a way, “signing” his name to the scene, much the same way an artist might subtly sign a painting in the corner of the canvas.

Behind the Scenes It’s a commonly held belief among Scripture scholars that St. Mark was writing primarily for the Christians under persecution in Rome in the years following Christ’s Resurrection. Though his birth name was “John Mark,” the evangelist focused more on his latter name as it was a derivative of the pagan god “Mars” who was the god of war.

You may have noticed (as has been mentioned previously) that Mark’s portrayal of Jesus is a God of action and power – one that would certainly pique the interest of those living in a Roman culture, so enamored with their Emperors, armies, and world domination.

For this reason, it is fascinating – while not surprising – that the first person to publicly proclaim Jesus’ divinity immediately following the crucifixion is none other than the Roman Centurion! Not only a warrior, but a leader of warriors. To have a high-ranking military official – and a non-Jew, to top it off – publically proclaim Jesus’ divinity was not only a message to the Christians of Rome but to people throughout the Roman Empire. It also signaled that the Kingdom Jesus had proclaimed was now open to all, not just His chosen people of Israel.

Word PlayThe word Abba is the Aramaic (the language that Jesus spoke, daily) word for “Father.” This is the only Gospel in which itit appears in. The other two times it is used in the Bible is by St. Paul (Romans 8:15, Galatians 4:6), obviously referring back to Christ’s usage and the oral tradition that had shared it following its original proclamation.

Journal:[1.] Jesus was welcomed into the city, only to be rejected by the people days later. Have you

experienced this same type of welcome and simultaneous rejection? How did this make you feel? How did you endure through the situation?

1.[2.] In the Second Reading we hear that Jesus humbled Himself, becoming obedient to the will of God, the Father (Philippians 2:7-8). Do you model this same humility in your own life?

2.[3.] Think of a time in your life when you were obedient to God’s command. Were you tempted to disobey Him? Was it easy to remain obedient? How did you grow in your faith through this experience?

3.[4.] In what ways have you turned away from God, disobeying His command? How can you resist the temptation to separate yourself from God and grow in faithfulness?

Challenge for the Week:Spend time this week reflecting on how you welcome Jesus into your own life. Consider using the following questions as journal prompts for your reflection: Do you welcome Jesus with an open heart into all aspects of your life? Do you allow Him to enter certain parts of your life, but refuse His entry into others? How can you allow Him to enter fully into your life?

Running on EmptyEaster Sunday (April 1, 2018)

“He saw and believed.”

Opening Prayer: Jesus, thank you. Thank You for Your suffering. Thank You for Your death. But most of all, thank You for Your Resurrection. When I face trials and tribulations, remind me of how You endured the greatest suffering and, ultimately, conquered death. Give me the grace, Lord, to endure as You endured. Most importantly, flood my spirit with joy today as I celebrate Your Resurrection. Amen.

FIRST READING Acts 10:34a, 37-43RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 118:1-2, 16-17, 22-23SECOND READING Colossians 3:1-4 GOSPEL John 20:1-9

Beyond WordsWhat things excite you most in life? What or brings you the most joy? The answer to these questions likely change over time. Certain experiences that brought us joy or created great anticipation in us as kids (i.e. the playground, trick-or-treating, etc.) might lose their luster as time goes on. Activities like spending time with family may not be as highly rated on the list during our teenage years as they are in our later years.

How about Easter? Where does that rank on your scale? Does the miracle of the Resurrection move your heart? Does it stir up something within you? Our answer usually has to do with how “close” we are to God at the moment.

What prompted Mary Magdalene to go to the tomb at sunrise that day? She didn’t have a team of people to help her move that stone but love compelled her to go there. Upon her discovery and subsequent report to the apostles, we see Peter and John take off in a mad sprint to the tomb. What propelled this early morning footracesprint? It was Ttheir love for the Lord.

It’s the same love that turned a fisherman into a shepherd in the First Reading, where we see Simon Peter, inspired by the Holy Spirit, become a great orator. It’s when we seek the one “who is above,” as St. Paul urges in the Second Reading, that everything here “down below” on earth seems to finally make sense.

In Christ’s Passion, suffering finds meaning. And Iin His resurrection, death is defeated. Easter Sunday is not just good news, or even great news;, it is life-altering and eternity-changing news. This is news worth celebrating and sharing! The first question you have to ask yourself, though, is whether or not you believe it and, if so, what difference does it make in your life and in the lives of those closest to you?

Random Fact Following the Resurrection, tens of thousands of Jews (almost overnight) abandoned (almost overnight) the centuries old tradition of celebrating the Sabbath on the last day of the week (Saturday). In turn, they and began worshipping on the first day of the week (Sunday);. tThe day Jesus beat death, sealing mankind’sthe new and final covenant with God.

Behind the Scenes The empty tomb is obviously a vital piece to the Resurrection “puzzle,” but it’s not the only intriguing detail in the Gospel accounts. As we hear in St. Matthew’s Gospel account, a rumor was spread that Jesus’s body was stolen by grave robbers. This lie was fabricated not only to help the Romans save face, but also to attempt to crush any insurgencyrevolution from Jesus’ closest followers.

The details surrounding the burial clothes left behind in the tomb have been discussed for two millenniums by theologians and scholars, alike. After John arrives at the tomb, he waits for Peter to enter, most likely due to respect for Peter’s office and leadership among the twelve apostles. During theat time he waited for Peter to arrive, John surveys the burial cloths inside., and Uupon their entry, he mentions them again, this time adding the detail that the head covering was rolled up in a separate place.

These details demonstrate several things. First, this is an eyewitness account. This level of detail in terms of arrival, what happened while waiting, redundancy of details regarding the cloths, along with expounded information all point to an actual, first-hand account. Second, the burial cloths being present dismisses the idea of grave robbery. What robbers – even if they could get past the Roman guard and somehow roll back the stone – would take the time to “unwrap” the corpse and leave linens behind? It’s a dangerous and illogical move. Third, the presence of the cloths demonstrate that Jesus was under His own power. When Lazarus was resurrected, for instance, Jesus had to order others to untie him. This is not the case with the Lord’s resurrection. Last, the placement of the “rolled up” or “folded” face cloth in a different location was purposeful, deliberate, and conscious.

Details such as these, may seem minute or even insignificant, but, upon reflection and further examination, they actually only serve to strengthen the evidence of the already incredible truth of the Resurrection.

Word PlayThe word baptism comes from the Greek baptismos meaning “washing.” It’s root word literally means “to immerse.” While we usually only baptize with water over the heads in most parishes today, the early Church always baptized people by fully immersing them beneath the surface of the water.

Journal:1. Upon hearing the news of Jesus’ resurrection, the disciples ran, not walked, to the tomb.

Do you respond to the Good News with this same anticipation and urgency?

2. The disciples were commissioned by God to share the news of Jesus’ resurrection, the news that He had conquered death and freed us from sin. We, too, are invited into this mission. How have you responded to God’s call to share the Good News?

3. We are told that God was with Jesus throughout His mission. Do you believe that God is always with you on your mission? If not, what is holding you back from having an unwavering faith in God’s presence?

Challenge for the Week:Jesus is risen, and we are called to rejoice and be glad! On this Easter Sunday, make a genuine effort to maintain a spirit of rejoicing throughout the day and rest of the week. Spend time in prayer dailyeach day, reflecting on the many ways God has blessed you, and offer your praise and thanksgiving back to Him.

Seeing Isn’t Believing Divine Mercy Sunday (April 8, 2018)

“Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”

Opening Prayer: Lord, You are good, You are merciful, You are loving. I pray, God, that when I begin to doubt Your goodness, You can help my unbelief. Remind me, Lord, of Your promises, Your enduring mercy and Your love. Amen.

FIRST READING Acts 4:32-35RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24SECOND READING 1 John 5:1-6GOSPEL John 20:19-31

Beyond WordsPerhaps you have a scar somewhere on your body. If not, you probably know someone who does. Most scars come with a story. “This happened to me during the War” a Veteran grandfather might offer, or “Once when I was a kid, I crashed my bike and got this scar” a friend may reveal. Regardless of the how or when, the scar echoes the bearer back to the moment almost instantly… to the pain, the purpose, perhaps the panic. For those who see the scar, they might not have all the memories attached to it and certainly not the physical pain, but the scar acts as living proof of thea suffering andor pain endured by the other.

In this week’s Gospel, we see poor St. Thomas, who is most famous once again known for his one moment of doubt. There’s never been an unluckier saint when it came to being in the wrong place at the wrong time. He missed “one staff meeting” and look what it gets him... 2,000 years of people calling him “the doubter.” Despite this stigma, we see in St. Thomas a great proclamation of faith in God with his admonition, “My Lord and my God” (John 20:28).

Yes, Jesus offered to show His scars so that Thomas would believe. But, the point we often gloss over, though, is that resurrected Jesus resurrected still had scars. In fact, in Revelation, St. John is given a vision of “the lamb who was slain.” When Jesus rose from the dead the scars did not go away. The scars are a testament to the suffering, yes, but also a reminder that the suffering gave way to ultimate victory and glory!

This is why St. John reminds us in the Second Reading that it’s through “water and blood” that we are saved. This is why the rejection of the cornerstone is not the end of the story in the Psalm. This is how, in the reading from Acts, the apostles could live in community and live for one another in total trust, and how they bore witness even in the face of persecution... because they saw the scars. This was no figment of imagination, hallucination, or dream. The risen Christ allowed them to touch Him, eat with Him, speak to Him, and – whenif necessary – even put their hand into His side. God gives us everything we need to believe. Doing so is a great act of mercy to those of us who are– the sinners, doubters, and unbelievers (which is really all of us in some way or another).

Random Fact Though we do not know for certain, tradition tells us that the “upper room” that acted as the apostles unofficial headquarters for the apostles in Jerusalem was in a house owned by St. Mark’s mother. Many scholars believe this same room that hosted the Last Supper and subsequent resurrection appearances was also the location of the Holy Spirit’s descent at Pentecost.

Behind the Scenes Much has been written about this famous scene and interaction between Christ and His apostles, most specifically with Thomas. There are many elements rich for meditation within this Gospel passage but two that are worthy of immediate mention are the physical evidence of the risen Christ and the respirationexhalation of Christ’s Spirit upon them.

First, the fact that Christ still bears the wounds of crucifixion, still, in His glorified body are significant. This was not a ghost or “vision.” Additionally, His physical body – though, now transfigured – still bears the wounds of being “disfigured” upon the cross. The wounds are proof, a physical sign that thisit is the same body that was killed only days prior. The marks of the Ccrucifixion, which sealed our redemption, are ever present to the Father in heaven, for all of eternity.

Second, the apostles are inspired (from the Latin to “breathe in”) by Christ’s spirit as He breathes peace and power upon them. This pouring in of God’s Spirit recalls the moment when God breathed life into Adam (Genesis 2) and when the great Ezekiel prophesied about God breathing life into dry bones (Ezekiel 37).

Word PlayThe name Didymus only appears once in Scripture, and it is in this week’s passage from the Gospel of John. Didymus is the Greek translation of the Jewish name “Thomas,” which appears in all four Gospels and in the book of Acts. It’s commonly held that it means “twin,” implying that St. Thomas may have had a twin brother.

Journal:1. This week’s Gospel reading tells of the story of “doubting” Thomas. Has there been a

time in your life when you, like St. Thomas, doubted Christ? How did you overcome this doubt? Do you continue to doubt Christ in this area of your life?

[2.] The disciples experienced great fear after the Resurrection, as seen by their action of locking the doors ofto their dwellinghiding place. Have you experienced a fear of being persecuted because of your faith in God? What was this experience like? How did you overcome this fear?

2.[3.] In the First Reading, we hear of the disciples living in community, offering all they have to ensure no person is impoverished. How have you developed a community of believers in your own life? Does your community work to provide for the needs of the underprivileged?

3.[4.] We are called to live out the commandments and share them with the world. Are you currently living out the commandments in your own life? Do you view them as more of a burden than actual guidelines for moral living? How are you sharing the commandments with others?  

Challenge for the Week:Spend time in prayer, (if possible, in front of the Blessed Sacrament if possible), reflecting on an area in your life in whichwhere you doubt God. During your reflection, consider the following questions: What is holding you back from placing your complete trust in God? How can you overcome this doubt? Will you allow God to help you believe in Him? When you feel yourself doubting God throughout the week, stop and pray, “Jesus, I trust in you.” Pray this prayer until you truly believe it.

Author of LifeThird Sunday of Easter (April 15, 2018)

“Repent, therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be wiped away.”

Opening Prayer: Dear God, You hear me when I call. When I begin to doubt Your presence, let me be reminded that You are always with me and You fulfill all of Your promises. When I turn away from You, lead me back to Your grace. Help me repent for my sins and shower me with Your unending grace and mercy. Amen.

FIRST READING Acts 3:13-15, 17-19RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 4:2, 4, 7-8, 9SECOND READING 1 John 2:1-5aGOSPEL Luke 24:35-48

Beyond Words

God is “the author of life” as we hear in the First Reading from Acts. During this speech from St. Peter we are given a tremendous overview and summation of salvation history. We hear about “The God, “the Father of Abraham…, Isaac, and,… Jacob…” and later about the prophets who were sent to announce Christ’s coming. We also hear about the swap for Barabbas “the murderer” and the denial before Pilate. Finally, we hear the formula for eternal life, “Repent and return so ... be converted... that your sins may be wiped away.” This reads like a Cliff’s Notes version of the Bible with many stories being recapitulated into one.

As the author of the story of salvation, the Holy Spirit recaps this tale for us in the First Reading (through Peter) and in the Gospel (through Christ, Himself, as He unpacks the Law of Moses, the prophets and Psalms). The Second Reading from St. John furthers this theme when we hear about the role of the Advocate (the Holy Spirit) and what it takes to live this Christian life authentically and virtuously. with authenticity and in virtue.

The covenants, and laws, and prophecies of the Old Testament didn’t happen by accident or haphazardly. No, God’s plan for our salvation is tangible and practical, unfolding intentionally over the centuries. The story makes sense because it was the purposeful design of its author… the “Author of Life,” who was “put to death “…but Godand raised Him from the dead….”

Random Fact We speak frequently about the Church’s “authority” or the pope’s “authority.” The word authority means “author’s right” and since Jesus imparted His “authority” upon the apostles (and their successors), they now have the “right” to govern on matters of faith.

Behind the Scenes This is the only place in Scripture we hear the name “Cleopas.” Little is known about this mystery man or his companion who were walking to Emmaus, a Judean village whose exact location is still argued over today.

Some theologians believe that Cleopas might be the same person as “Clopas” who is mentioned in St. John’s Gospel (John 19:25). There we hear about “Mary, wife of Clopas.” While our modern translations say, “wife of” the actual Greek read, “Mary of Clopas” meaning it could have been his mother or daughter, as well. But, most believe they were married. Tradition tells us that Cleopas was possibly the blood brother of St. Joseph (hence, the close connection and proximity of his wife to the Blessed Virgin at the foot of the cross). We know St. Joseph had died prior to Jesus’ earthly ministry and it is quite plausible Joseph’s extended family would have helped care for Mary and her house when Jesus began Hiswent on his missionary journey and public ministry. Another tradition asserts that Cleopas’ son, Eusebius, is the same Eusebius who was elected the second Bishop of Jerusalem.

While most of these facts are not found on the pages of the Gospel, we are blessed as Catholics to have sacred Tradition and traditions to draw from which offer us, not only intriguing insight and context, but, also, valuable information to meditate on as we read well-known stories again, as if for the first time.

Word Play

The word Advocate comes from the Latin advocatus, meaning, “to call to one’s aid.” Often used in legal jargon and proceedings, an advocate is someone – like a lawyer – who pleads on someone else’s behalf.

Journal:1. Has there been a time in your life when you were ignorant to a great truth? How did you

overcome this ignorance and gain knowledge about the truth?2. Have you treated the news about Christ’s resurrection or His commandments with an

ignorant nature? How so?3. God fulfills His promises, but has there been a time in your life when you doubted these

promises?

Challenge for the Week:We are called to repent for our sins, so spend time reflecting on areas in your life that are in need of God’s forgiveness and healing. Find a parish in your area that offers the Sacrament of Reconciliation and go receive that grace this week.

CluelessFourth Sunday of Easter (April 22, 2018)

“There is no salvation through anyone else.”

Opening Prayer: Loving Jesus, in Your victory over death, You assure me of Your power over all things. Grant me the grace to build my life on this foundational truth, that You alone are my salvation. Help me also to also share this Good News with others. I ask this in Your powerful name. Amen.

FIRST READING Acts 4:8-12RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 118:1, 8-9, 21-23, 26, 28, 29SECOND READING 1 John 3:1-2GOSPEL John 10:11-18

Beyond WordsThis week’s readings demonstrate the importance of a relationship with God and its eternal implications. Christ is the cornerstone of our lives and the cornerstone the Church is built upon. As St. Peter reminds us in the First Reading, it’s by His name – and His name, alone – “which we are to be saved.”

Why is it by Jesus’ name that we are saved? Because ofThe answer has to do with His relationship to the Father, which we hear about in each reading. We hear of the Christ’s favor with God the Father in the First Reading, His intimacy with the Father in the Gospel and how that relationship is opened up to all of us as children, now, because of Jesus.

When we pray, “In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit…” we aren’t just lacking in a creative beginning to prayer;... we are claiming our family name, and our new birthright by virtue of our Baptism. It is under the Lordship of Jesus, in the name of Jesus, by the blood of Jesus, and through the gift of the Holy Spirit that we can approach God as “Abba.” and proclaim Christ is Lord. None of these realities would be possible without God’s love and mercy, which is what Peter and John were proclaiming to us, again, in this week’s readings. How blessed we are, “that we may be called children of God.”!

Random Fact When constructing a building, Thea “cornerstone” was a large stonerock placed at the corner of a building (being constructed) where two walls caome together. The cornerstone was vital as it had to be the perfect strength, size, and fit to hold it alleverything together. The cornerstone servesd as the foundation for the entire structure; without it, the building would most likely collapse.

Behind the Scenes When Christ depicts Himself as “the good shepherd,” we are given an interesting insight in John 10 that will later culminate in the upper room and at the cross a few chapters later. Note Jesus’ language when He proclaims, “…I will lay down my life for the sheep.” This is not just a prophecy, but a proclamation of proactivity. At the institution of the Eucharist, the Good Shepherd chose to become the lamb that is slain upon the altar of the cross. The choice to die was Christ’s and it was an active choice, not a passive victimization.

Even though He was scourged, and beaten, and nailed to the cross, Jesus bothstill chose and allowed it to happen. The old cliché holds true: nails did not keep Jesus on the cross, love did. Just aslike a wolf (the enemy) had to “go through the shepherd” to get to the flock, Satan would have to “go through Christ” before God would let His flock be destroyed. Instead, the Good Shepherd destroyed death forever and leads His flock into eternal pastures. The imagery of the noble and heroic shepherd would not have been lost on the Jewish people, especially, given that This has a lot to do with the greatest Jewish patriarchs, Moses and King David; both worked as shepherds at different stages of their lives before shepherding the children of God through the wilderness and in the face of mighty, foreign foes. Jewish readers would have immediately associated Jesus with these two men.

Word PlayFrom the Latin refugium, the word refuge means “to flee or/ come back.” Put simply, when we seek refuge, we are looking for safety and shelter in the arms of the Lord.

Journal:[1.] Filled with the Spirit, Peter, filled with the Spirit makes many bold claims about the

power of Christ in our lives. Which of these truths bring you joy? Which of them challenges you?

[2.] One couldan claim that there is no doubt in Peter believed it was the power of Christ’s name that healed the cripple.’s mind the healing of the cripple was done by the power of Christ’s name. Where in your own life do you find the presence of God unquestionable?

1.[3.] Salvation is found in Christ alone. Do your daily actions reflect or reject that truth?

Challenge for the Week:The rock the builders reject became the cornerstone on which our Salvation depends. Spend some time identifying areas of your life where you have felt rejected, and invite Jesus to transform them into opportunities for growth.

Nothing GreaterFifth Sunday of Easter (April 29, 2018)

“Let us love… in deed and truth.”

Opening Prayer: Heavenly Father, You call me into a life abundant with authentic love; a love that is more than just words. Help me to make this love known withinby my actions. Bless the love in my lifeI give with fruitfulness, so that others may be drawn closer into Love Himselfitself, namely your Son, Jesus Christ. I ask this in theHis name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

FIRST READING Acts 9:26-31RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 22:26-27, 28, 30, 31-32SECOND READING 1 John 3:18-24GOSPEL John 15:1-8

Beyond WordsIt’s easy to say, “I love you.”

Consider that phrase for a moment. It communicates a great deal in just three seven words. The implication is that merely saying the words “I love you” is quite simple. We can say it to a family member, a friend, a dog... a piece of pizza (though, hopefully not). The phrase is really easy to say, but it’s in our actions that the words come to life and are proven true, or untrue.

Actions follow beliefs.

In this First Reading from Acts, we hear about Saul’s difficulty in getting the apostles to trust him and his newfound, post-conversion intentions. It was only after Saul (later, Paul) proved with his actions – through bold preaching and trustworthiness – that they believed his intentions to be sincere. Saint John makes a similar point in the Second Reading. It’s not enough to love merely in “word and speech” but “in deed and truth.” God sees whether we truly love one another in our actions, beyond words. This really is the heart of the metaphor Christ gives us in the Gospel, demonstrating that He is the vine and if we are connected to Him we will bear fruit... tangible fruit in our actions. Those who only claim to be connected will not bear fruit and will be exposed over time. It’s as though Jesus is saying, “Thank you for proclaiming you love me., Nnow let’s see that love put into action.”

Random Fact The distance between Caesarea and Tarsus was roughly 300 miles.

Behind the Scenes The image of God as the divine “vine grower” has deep roots (no pun intended) in the Old Testament. In Isaiah, we see the Lord planting a vineyard and caring for the vines and the fruit it bears. When the vine fails to produce good fruit, however, and instead yields sour grapes, the vineyard is allowed to be overrun and destroyed.

This is a powerful and somewhat scary truth to contemplate. Our works and actions are the “fruit” of the vine. When we stay attached to Christ – the true Vine – we bear good fruit. When we become detached through sin, however, we cut ourselves off from our lifeline and, ultimately, cannot produce good fruit. Sin (as St. Paul points out in Romans 6:23) truly is death!

Interestingly, to advance this vine analogy further, the Greek word used for “prune” in this passage can also mean, “to cleanse.” So, when God prunes us or allows us to go through small hardships and trials (with the hope we will cling even more tightly to Him),, we are purified/ cleansed and can produce even sweeter wine in the long run. The best wine comes from the grapes who can withstand the harsh seasons around them and endure the greatest “sufferings” without becoming detached. We have to “remain” in Him (Jesus)” if we want to produce the fruit “that will remain.”

Word PlayThe term Hellenist comes from the term, “Hellenization” which refersring to an initiative and time in Greek history when the Empire was flourishing and there was an intentional desire to “make the whole world Greek.” The hope was to get everyone to speak Greek, to “think” Greek, to worship Greek gods and to have all facets of life permeated with by Greek culture.

Journal:1. Can love exist without deed and truth? Why or why not?2. Where in your life might your “love” be devoid of action and/or truth? What is one thing

you can do to change that?3. Where in your life is your love full of action and truth? What fruit is being produced in

your life that affirms this?

Challenge for the Week:Take the first line from today’s Second Reading (1 John 3:18) and meditate with over it in prayer. Pray slowly and intentionally over each word, “…let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth,” slowly and intentionally, allowing each one to penetrate your heart. Do this for ten minutes, three or four times over the course of the week and listen to where the Lord is calling you to love in deed and truth.

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Sixth Sunday of Easter (May 6, 2018)

“God shows no partiality.”

Opening Prayer: Heavenly Father, in Your unending mercy You desire salvation for all mankind. Help me to be an instrument of Your impartial love, extending Your invitation to holiness to those that my brokenness deems “unworthy.” Help me to share my hope in You with those who most need it. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

FIRST READING Acts 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 98:1, 2-3, 3-4SECOND READING 1 John 4:7-10GOSPEL John 15:9-17

Beyond WordsReading a compliment underon a picture or social media post, receiving an unexpected card or flowers, getting bumped up to first class on a flight, hearing an affirmation for a job well done from your boss... these are a just a few examples of how nice it is to feel special. The Lord tells us to prefer the seat of least honor, but our own human condition (and fallen nature) usually would prefer the V.I.P. status if given the opportunity. Who doesn’t want to feel like a V.I.P., especially in God’s eyes?

The Israelites had always been God’s chosen people. They’d survived the ups and downs, the enslavements, the desert wanderings, the glory days, the destructions of their cities, the rebuilding, etc. They survived all of these on the promise that God would send a Messiah to save them. Little did they know (at the time) that the Messiah would also save the entire world.

Imagine the devout Jews-turned-Christians’ surprise when “all of the sudden” they weren’t God’s only children anymore. Consider how hard it must have been to hear that “in every nation whoever fears him and acts uprightly is acceptable to him,” as St. Peter made clear in the First Reading. No more “only child” status. No more “quiet house” without siblings you didn’t want. This was a tough pill to swallow for the Jews, yet welcome news for Gentiles, their hated enemies!

This is why the Psalmist says that the Lord “has revealed to the nations his saving power.” This is why St. John had to constantly remind people to “love one another” in his writings as we hear in the Second Reading and echoed again in the Gospel. This, too, is why we are constantly reminded that God is our Father and that we are no longer called slaves... but friends and children (John 15:15). It’s not that we are no longer special in the eyes of God, it’s that each of us is equally special in the eyes of the Father.

Random Fact The First Reading speaks of Cornelius, a Roman Centurion. A Roman Centurion was a high-ranking officer in command of at least 100 men. Cornelius was directed by an angel to seek out

Peter and after interacting with the apostlePeter, converts to Christianity. CorneliusHe is sometimes called the first Gentile “convert.”

Behind the Scenes It’s difficult to fully appreciate this scene from the Acts of the Apostles without a little bit of context regarding Jewish and Gentile relations, post Resurrection. As has been stated many times before, the Jews and Gentiles did not like one another. The Jews chose to avoid the Gentiles and would go to great lengths to do so. Imagine how Jewish “converts” to Christianity must have felt when they went from being God’s “only child” to all of the sudden hearing the first Pope, St. Peter, reinforce that Christ’s mission sacrifice and invitation to eternal life was an invitation to all peoples, ALL, including the Gentiles!?

As if that were not difficult enough, now the Jews – who have been circumcised according to the covenant with Abraham, their forefather – are being told that the Gentile newcomers to the faith (which is now “Christianity”) dwon’t need to be circumcised before beingto be fully initiated into God’s family and promise.

Hold the phone or, at least, the flint knife.

Why didn’t the Gentiles need to be circumcised? Circumcision only signified what Baptism now achieves. Circumcision was an “outward sign” of the Old Covenant but after the Crucifixion and Resurrection, the people were invited into the family (via Baptism) by way of Christ’s New Covenant. The Jews who had been circumcised felt that the Gentiles should have to go through the same process they hadinitiation. The Holy Spirit said otherwise, and St. Peter, wisely, followed the Spirit. The, who poured out graces upon the Gentiles so strongly in the First Reading makes it obvious that the Holy Spirit had already included Gentiles in this New Covenant (whether the Jews liked it or not); that we see spiritual gifts are physically manifested to the individuals of Cornelius’ householdphysically in the gift of tongues. This same contention over “whether or not to circumcise” is seen in several of St. Paul’s epistles, most notably in his letter to the Galatians.

Word PlayThe word expiation comes from the Latin expiationem, which means,for “atonement.” It can also means, “to make amends” or “reparation for wrongdoing.” Although Christ did no wrong – and had never sinned, – His act of mercy upon the cross paid our debt and ransomed us from eternal death.

Journal:1. Peter demonstrates great humility in recognizing that he is only human, just like

Cornelius. Why is humility so important when we share the Gospel with others?2. Though “God shows no partiality,” we sometimes do. Where in your life do you show

partiality? What changes can you make to be more impartial?3. When Peter shares about God’s acceptance of every nation, the Gentiles become filled

with the Spirit. Is there someone in your own life who might benefit from you sharing God’s love with them? How can you take that first step?

Challenge for the Week:When we experience a profound or intense conversion in our lives, it sometimes leads to a temptation to judge others for not being as “holy” as we are. Instead of sitting on a high horse and looking down on those who may not be on the same spiritual level as you, take a day this week instead to pray for that person or group, asking Christ to provide the grace they need to draw closer to His Heart. Then take another day to identify the graces in your own life that have led you to grow in holiness and humbly thank God for them, recognizing that we are all works in progress.

Snake CharmerAscension Sunday (May 13, 2018)

“Proclaim the Gospel to every creature.”

Opening Prayer: Jesus, your Ascension reminds me not only of your place at the right hand of the Father, but of my own as your missionary disciple. Grant me the grace to overcome that which keeps me from spreading the Gospel to those around me. Strengthen my belief by strengthening my missionary action; that, with every witness to your saving power, my own trust in that same power will grow. Amen.

FIRST READING Acts 1:1-11RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 47:2-3, 6-7, 8-9SECOND READING Ephesians 1:17-23GOSPEL Mark 16:15-20

Beyond Words As humans, trapped in mortal bodies, many of us have a tendency to view life and the world through an earthly lens. This makes sense as we aren’t all-knowing, transcendent beings. However, God is constantly inviting us to “think bigger” or, more to the point, to “think higher.”

As we celebrate and look to the Ascension, we are much like the apostles in the First Reading, staring up at the rising Christ and the heavens with their feet firmly planted on earth. Notice the angels’ response, wondering why the apostles arethey’re so surprised. They’ve seen miracles, a risen Lord, and they’re still viewing the realities around them from a human perspective. The challenge and invitation of Scripture is to think more like God thinks. That’s why, in the Second Reading, St. Paul is praying that the Ephesians (in the Second Reading) will receive “wisdom and revelation” and that their hearts would “be enlightened.”

In a similar way, Jesus is telling the disciples that they are going to do things – by the power of His Spirit – that humans can’t normally do. They will “speak new languages” and “drive out

demons” and “pick up serpents with their hands” just to name a few. Christ is trying to explain that as great as life hads been with Him on earth, that greater things are still are to come. after He ascends and the Holy Spirit comes in power.

As you kneel at Mass this week, (where heaven and earth collide), thank the Lord for the ability to dream big and to do the extraordinary. Thank Him for the talents He has given you and for the humility to share those talents in the world for His glory and not your own.

Random Fact The number “forty” appears over 160 times in the Bible… 14 times in the book of Acts, alone.

Behind the Scenes Saint Mark’s Gospel – perhaps more than any of the other Gospel accounts – presents Jesus as a powerful man of action, calling each of us to exercise similar power with a sense of urgency and passion. This “great commissioning” final “scene of commission” at the Ascension is a perfect example of the Spirit’s urgent tone through St. Mark’s pen. Note the expectation that comes with Christ’s empowerment. The apostlesy are expected to “go out,” “proclaim,” and “baptize,” not just locally, but throughoutin “the whole world.”

Note, too, that there will be miraculous “signs” that accompany the apostlesm as they fulfill their mission. Each of the miracles promised by Jesus in this week’s Gospel – the driving out of demons, speaking in new languages, snake handling without harm, and laying on of hands to curinge the sick – each of these happen in the Acts of the Apostles (chapters 16, 2, 28, and 3, respectively).

They “went forth” in power and “the Lord worked with them” (note the active emphasis). Christ is not a mere philosopher, pontificating on what others should do. Just as Christ went about doing good while on earth, now by the power of the Holy Spirit, His Church is expected to go forth doing good and baptizing the world in His name, now by the power of the Holy Spirit. The Christian life is missionary, not stationary.

Word PlayThe name Theophilus comes from theis a Greek name meaning, “friend of God.” St. Luke addresses both his Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles to this mysterious friend, who many believe may have been a strong benefactor to the early Christian Church.

Journal:[1.] “Go.” Jesus ascends in the midst of giving His disciples (that includes usof which, each

of us are one) a call to action. How have you responded to this call, or how can you respond moving forward?

1.[2.] Jesus names some pretty incredible things the disciples will be capable of doing as signs for others. Do these things excite you, or terrify you? Why?

2.[3.] The disciples are sent, not just around their immediate location, but to the whole world. How might Jesus be inviting you to expand the “geography” of where you share the Good News?

[4.] How different would the Church look iflike had the disciples had not gone out, but instead kept Jesus to themselves? How does this translate to your own battles in keeping your faith “private”?

Challenge for the Week:Spend time in prayer evaluating the current state of your faith and missionary action. Are you struck with doubt and confusion about the truth of the faith? Do you struggle with how to apply the teachings of the Churchfaith into your everyday life? Are you paralyzed by fear of what others might think when you share the Gospel? Do you question your capacity to boldly proclaim Jesus to the whole world?

Regardless of where you might find yourself, allow today’s Gospel passage to breathe new life into your mission by meditating upon the final verse this week: “But they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the word through accompanying signs” (Mark 16:20). Thank Jesus for working with you as you seek to share His love and mercy with the world. Ask Him to overcome any doubt, confusion, struggle, or fear so that you may better fulfill the mission He has entrusted to you.

Renewal NoticePentecost Sunday (May 20, 2018)

“Renew the face of the earth.”

Opening Prayer: Spirit of the Living God, come into my heart and renew it. Spirit of the Living God, come into my mind and renew it. Spirit of the Living God, come into my soul and renew it. Holy Spirit, I invite You into my life and entrust all that must be made new to Your creative power. Amen.

FIRST READING Acts 2:1-11RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 104:1, 24, 29-30, 31, 34SECOND READING 1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13 or Galatians 5:16-25GOSPEL John 20:19-23 or John 15:26-27; 16:12-15

Beyond WordsConsider your life without electricity. Perhaps you’ve camped deep in the wilderness, miles from any outlet or cell tower. Remember the last time a storm knocked out the power to your home? How did you feel? Helpless? Scared? Did you realize how reliant you are on power?

It’s easy to imagine these scenarios because they happen. But, consider your life without the Holy Spirit. You might not think it would have that much of cause that great a difference, but you’d be sadly mistaken. As a Christian, you cannot live without the Holy Spirit.

As we hear in the Gospel, tThe Holy Spirit is our source of truth and peace, as we hear in the Gospel. It is only by the Holy Spirit that we are even able to proclaim, “Jesus is Lord!” (as we are told in the Second Reading). It is the Holy Spirit who unites us as a Church, empowers us,

and moves us forward on a mission of evangelization as we learn in from this famous First Reading from Acts.

It is through the Holy Spirit that God we are continually renewsed us by God, which is exactly what the Psalmist is requestingpraying and begging for: “Lord, send out your Spirit and renew the face of the earth!” Without the Holy Spirit we have no Scripture, no Church, no Sacraments, no priesthood, no ability to evangelize, no objective truth... the list is endless.

Random Fact There are 12 fruits of the Holy Spirit... nine of them are listed in the optionalis Second (optional) Reading from Galatians. The 12 fruits are as follows: charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, generosity, gentleness, faithfulness, modesty, chastity, and self-control.

Behind the Scenes Often times, the second half of the First Reading from Acts 2 feels more like a geography lesson abouton a world which no longer exists. We hear “Parthians, Medes, Elamites… Mesopotamia, Judea, Cappadocia, Pontus, Asia, Phrygia, Pamphylia, Egypt... Libya, Cyrene, Rome,” etc. For many who have never visited the Mediterranean world . or done any deeper reading about what this region was like during the Middle East in the time of Christ, it is difficult to imagine just how far these individuals who had traveled to Jerusalem for the Jewish feast of Pentecost travelers had actually come.

Just to give a frame of reference, many of the cities mentioned were provinces in Asia Minor, Arabia, and Northern Africa, all of which required significant travel to the holy city of Jerusalem.

For instance: Jerusalem to Pontus, in Asia Minor (modern Turkey), would have been almost 1,000 miles. Jerusalem to Mesopotamia (modern Iraq) would have been over 700 miles. Jerusalem to Rome would have been roughly 1,400 miles.

Those assembled in Jerusalem for the Feast of Pentecost were not just on vacation or sight-seeing, they were dedicated Jews from around the world. Travel was not easy or cheap. It required time away from their homes, extended families, and trades. These were the really “devout Jews” as we hear in the reading and evidenced by their journeys.

Word PlayThe word Pentecost literally means, “50th day,” as the feast occursis celebrated 50 days after Passover. On the feast of Pentecost, the Jews celebrated a harvest festival (Exodus 23:16), but it was also closely connected with the anniversary of the reception ofJews receiving the Law (the Ten Commandments) of God through Moses atop Mt. Sinai. Just as God touched earth in a powerful way atop Sinai, now the Holy Spirit would touch earth with His power once, yet again.

Journal:1. What are some of the reasons the Lord deserves your praise? Try to list five from today

alone.2. Where in your life do you see the majesty of God’s creatures most clearly?

3. The Holy Spirit is called upon to renew. What elements of your life might you invite the Spirit to renew today?

Challenge for the Week:Participate in the creative and renewing Spirit of God by fostering something new this week. Plant a seed, write a short story, sing a new song, redecorate a room, paint a picture, or do anything that allows you to bring about something that hasn’t yet been done before. As you participate in this creative activity, invite the Holy Spirit to help renew you and those around you.

One and OnlyTrinity Sunday (May 27, 2018)

“The Lord is God… and there is no other.”

Opening Prayer: Blessed Trinity, the mystery of You leads me deeper into faith and trust. Guide me into a greater desire to have my life honor and glorify the perfect communion of love found in this mystery. I make this prayer in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.  

FIRST READING Deuteronomy 4:32-34, 39-40RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 33:4-5, 6, 9, 18-19, 20, 22SECOND READING Romans 8:14-17GOSPEL Matthew 28:16-20

Beyond WordsThere is possibly no mystery greater than the Holy Trinity. For centuries, saints, and writers, atheists, and theologians have discussed and debated the reality of three persons in one God. For most of us Christians, however, we tend to focus more on our relationship with God than we do on God the Father’s relationship to Christ, the Son... much less the role of the Holy Spirit.

In spending time and effort focusing , first, on the mystery of Blessed Trinity, however, we actually gain find new insight into our relationship with all three divine Persons. It’s when we pause and reflect on God the Father’s sovereignty and providence, that we can better trust Him in times of distress (as we see in the First Reading). It’s when we consider the gift we receive in the sacraments through Christ the Son that we can begin to understand our vocation and mission in the world, (as affirmed by the Gospel) affirms. It’s when we meditate on the power and reality of the Holy Spirit within us that we begin to see how blessed we are, and what it means to be fully alive as children of God (as we are reminded in the Second Reading).

The Trinity is a perfect communion of love, and we are called not only to emulate it, but also to participate in it. The Psalmist is right, “Blessed are the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.”

Random Fact

The fact that Jesus directs His apostles to Galilee for this great commissioning is quite intentional. Just as Jesus began His earthly ministry in Galilee (the call of the disciples on the Sea of Galilee, the first miracle in Cana of Galilee), He is now bidding them to start a new earthly mission from the same area but with an even wider focus.

Behind the Scenes The Book of Deuteronomy is the fifth and final book of the Pentateuch (meaning “five books”). The word Deuteronomy translates to “second law.” This important book functions almost as a farewell address by Moses, in which he imparts great advice and practical wisdom upon the nation of Israel. Deuteronomy repeats the Ten Commandments, underscoring the importance of following God’s commands to the letter of the law.

Additionally, this book gives a portion of the laws given in earlier books, but also adds “second” laws about the way the Israelites should live in the Promised Land. It is in this book that Israel’s identity as a nation is made clearer. It also offers prophecies about the events that will occur later in the Old Testament.

In this book, we are given a glimpse into the paternal heart of God, one that reveals His fatherly care for His children. God is a Father who will never abandon us, – even when we disobey. – However, he is but, also, a Father who loves us too much to allow us to live selfishly without care or consideration of others. God always governs us with love and justice, with firmness and care. He sends us leaders like Moses to continually guide us back to the right path.

Word PlayThe word enjoin (found in the First Reading from Deuteronomy) comes from the Latin injungere meaning, “to join together” or, “to impose or attach.” Put simply, God wasn’t giving His children ten “suggestions,” but, rather, Ten Commandments. There is an implied expectation for them to be followed explicitely., to the letter.

Journal:[1.] In the First Reading, Moses is recountsing the great things the Lord has done for His

people, Israel, asking, “Did anything so great ever happen before?” What’s the greatest thing God has done for you personally?

[2.] “The Lord is God... and there is no other” (Deuteronomy 4:39).f If an outsider were to evaluate your life, would they be able to identify this as the fundamental truth of your life? Why or why not?

1.[3.] Which of the Lord’s commandments are the most difficult for you to keep? What is one concrete action you can take to help you better observe it?

Challenge for the Week:One way to begin to understand the Holy Trinity is to see it as a relationship bound up intimately through love. Dive deep into the mystery this week by being intentional in your own loving relationships. Identify the ways in which your family or close friends come together, each member as a distinct person but at the same time critical to the integrity and union of the entire group. In theose moments when you share love together, give glory to the Trinity with a prayer of thanksgiving for the capacity to find authentic loving relationship with others.

Uber EatsCorpus Christi (June 3, 2018)

“Take it; this is my body.”

Opening Prayer: Jesus, You were broken and shared for me so I may receive You in the Eucharist. Give me the eyes to see the immense love contained for me in the sacrifice of your Body and Blood. Help me to live in that same love today and always. Amen.

FIRST READING Exodus 24:3-8RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 116:12-13, 15-16, 17-18SECOND READING Hebrews 9:11-15GOSPEL Mark 14:12-16, 22-26

Beyond WordsAt first glance, the First and Second Reading this week may not readily appear connected to the Eucharist as much as they do with a horror film or documentary on animal cruelty. For those of us living in a civilized, 21st century culture, the images and details surrounding animal sacrifice are quite foreign and probably disgusting. Thousands of years ago the practice was not only more digestible (no pun intended) but also more accepted.

In the First Reading, we are given a prescription for how the covenant with God and His people was sealed at Mt. Sinai... through the blood of sacrifice upon the altar of sacrifice. In the Second Reading, the author of Hebrews is trying to illuminate the difference between the sacrifices, liturgy, and temple of the Old Covenant, and how they are forever changed by Christ who is the new “high priest.”

It’s only after this background is in place and we are reminded of how sacrifice “used to” work prior to Jesus, that we are led to the Upper Room in the Gospel account of the Last Supper. We are told that the New Covenant will also be sealed with blood but Jesus blows their minds (and ours, still, 2,000 years later) when He reveals that He will be the lamb that is sacrificed upon the altar of the cross. Things are indeed changing. Their older liturgical practices will give way to a new understanding of His sacrifice on the cross, when His blood will be poured out and flesh eaten from new altars (at Mass in our parishes). The great gift and mystery of the Eucharist has its roots deep into the Old Testament/Covenant, but through the Church and her Sacraments, Jesus makes all things new.

Random Fact The line from the Gospel, “a man carrying a jug of water” might seem a little bit “odd” to be worthy of mention, much less a clue from Jesus about whom to approach. In Jewish culture, however, drawing water from a well or river and carrying it was customarily the job of the woman of the house, while the men focused more on working their trade during the day.

Behind the Scenes Upon first glance and reception, this First Reading from Exodus sounds more like a horror movie gone wrong than a Biblical story. Why on earth is Moses throwing blood all over the people like some Stephen King character in a psychotic rage? To understand it, we need to take a step back and ask what this celebration is all about.

This is a ceremony to swear an oath to the covenant God was entering into with His people. Following the giving of the Commandments, God’s people enter into this relationship liturgically. Placing themselves under this sworn oath to God, they are being consecrated to the Lord, and the blood signifies that the people will receive God’s blessings as His children. The blood, however, also signifies a curse, should the end of their covenant be broken.

When Christ takes the chalice in the Upper Room and transforms the wine into His own blood, the “blood of the New Covenant” He is referring back to this moment at Sinai while giving it an all-new and eternal context within liturgy.

Word PlayThe word Tabernacle comes from the Latin word tabernaculum meaning “tent” or “dwelling place.” In the Old Testament, the Ark of the Covenant (which held the 10 Commandments among other things – Hebrews 9:4) was placed in the tabernacle “tent” as a sanctuary. Our parish tabernacles, still today, are the dwelling place of the Lord, signified by the red sanctuary candle that burns beside it to remind us of God’s enduring presence dwelling among us.

Journal:1. “Take it.” Jesus could not be clearer about what He wants us to do with His Body. What

is keeping you from accepting His invitation every Sunday?2. A covenant is a promise between God and His people, and Christ refers to the Eucharist

as the “New Covenant.” How does Christ in the Eucharist fulfill the promises God has made?

3. How can the sacraments, and particularly the Eucharist, help strengthen your relationship with God?

Challenge for the Week:Before the Passover celebration can take place, the disciples must make specific preparations. Similarly, we are invited to prepare a way for Christ before receiving Him in the Eucharist at Sunday Mass: we fast an hour before Mass, ensure we are in a state of grace, and actively participate in the songs and prayers of the liturgy. This week, pick a new way you will prepare more intentionally: go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, spend some time praying with the readings, or carve out time to arrive earlier than normal to converse with the Lord.

Mobile HomeTenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (June 10, 2018)

“We have a building from God… eternal in heaven.”

Opening Prayer: Loving and merciful God, though You have made me for eternal things, my fallen humanity makes it difficult for me to look past temporal things. Help me to look to Christ in difficult moments, so that I may continue to passionately strive for Heaven, which You have made for me. Renew in me daily the ability to trust in the eternal weight of glory rather than be overcome by any temporary affliction. I ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

FIRST READING Genesis 3:9-15RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8SECOND READING 2 Corinthians 4:13–5:1GOSPEL Mark 3:20-35

Beyond WordsMost people who watch the news or even moderately browse the Internet could probably tell you where the latest battles and conflicts are taking place in the world. Few people, however, stop to consider the spiritual battles being waged, daily, for souls... yours included.

This week’s readings invite us to take a second look at our spiritual realities and open our eyes to the war between light and darkness constantly happening around us. The First Reading gives us the famous story of humanity’s beginning in Eden. As we hear Adam and Eve’s responses, we begin to learn more about the enemy’s strategy but, also, God’s sovereignty. The Gospel picks up that same theme and advances it as Jesus dispels the rumor that His power comes from the evil one. “How can Satan drive out Satan?” He challenges the scribes. He then goes on to remind everyone that God is mercy and the only unforgivable sin is “whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit” – the refusal to ask or accept God’s forgiveness and mercy.

Sandwiched between these two clear accounts of the reality of darkness and spiritual attack, lies this deep meditation from St. Paul to the Church in Corinth. He encourages the Church in Corinth – and us – to peer beyond our earthly and temporary reality and consider how much greater and more glorious God is than this brief and “transitory” existence on earth. He urges us not to get too weighed down with the earthly, lest we miss or lose the “eternal.”

There is a battle for our eternal souls and those who have “eyes to see” and seek God’s mercy will emerge victorious.

Random Fact Saint Paul refers to our earthly, temporary dwelling as a “tent.” His career before he became a full-time missionary was that of a tentmaker (Acts 18:3).

Behind the Scenes This week’s Gospel passage has at times been used to try and minimize the importance of the Blessed Virgin Mary as well as the Catholic Church’s strong devotion to her. After being told that “your mother and brothers are outside looking for you” Jesus responds in a somewhat odd retort, “Who are my mother and brothers?”

Upon first glance, Jesus seems uninterested in His immediate and extended family. On the surface, this reading has fueled non-Catholic speculation over the centuries about the perpetual virginity of Mary as well as her importance as the Mother of God (Theotokos). But, upon deeper meditation we can come to understand the following:

First, the Hebrew/Aramaic and Greek words used herein for “brothers” is far wider than blood brother; the word(s) used (depending upon translation) could refer to full brother, half-brother, cousin, or extended male family member. Elsewhere in the Gospels we hear of Jesus’ “brothers” James and Joses as sons of a different Mary, entirely. St. Jerome, doctor of the Church and patron saint of Scripture, personally subscribed to this belief. Other theologians and historians believe that the “brothers” mentioned could easily have been from St. Joseph from a previous marriage (thus making them half-brothers). There is no evidence – anywhere in Scripture – that Mary was anything other than the Blessed Virgin history and the Church hold her to be.

Second, we may ask, “Is Jesus being disrespectful to His Mother with this response?” Here, Jesus is not rejecting His earthly family but, rather, “opening up” His family to include us all in his divine Sonship. If anything, He’s actually elevating His mother to an even higher status when He gives her to us all from the cross. This comment is an invitation to start seeing His mission and role (and, by extension, our own) far differently. Mary and the others are not being rejected by Jesus, but lifted up by Him as models of what a relationship with God can look like. =

Word PlayThe word serpent comes from the Latin term serpere meaning “creeping thing.” The actual word for serpent in Biblical Hebrew means less a “snake” and more a dragon-like reptile.

Journal:1. What are some of the major sources of discouragement in your own life? How do they

impact your belief in God?2. Saint Paul tells us that grace flows abundantly, so that our thanks to God may also

overflow. How do you find grace in the midst of suffering?3. What we can see is usually what most impacts our life – more so than that which is

unseen. What is one thing you can do daily to help you give more weight to the “unseen” throughout your day?

4. How would you, in your own words, describe the hope in the eternal – namely heaven – to someone struggling to see past their current hardship?

Challenge for the Week:Though at this moment you may not find yourself discouraged in the way St. Paul describes, times of suffering are inevitable, and they usually catch us off guard. Use today’s Second Reading as inspiration to write a prayer for those times of unexpected desolation – one that both acknowledges the suffering at hand but also invites Christ to renew and give hope. Safeguard it by placing it in your Bible or in a book of prayers, so that you can turn to it in difficult moments.

Away Team

Eleventh Sunday of Ordinary Time (June 17, 2018)

“We aspire to please him.”

Opening Prayer: Jesus, your servant Paul says we walk by faith and not by sight. Sometimes this is difficult for me, and I believe only what I can know through the senses. Grant me the grace I need to be courageous and do only that which is pleasing to the Father, so that when I struggle to see the work being done in my soul, I may not doubt in Your perfect plan. Amen.

FIRST READING Ezekiel 17:22-24RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 92:2-3, 13-14, 15-16SECOND READING 2 Corinthians 5:6-10GOSPEL Mark 4:26-34

Beyond WordsIt has been said that “good things come to those who wait,” and while that is certainly true, and patience is the fruit of virtue, it’s also important to act in response to prayer and God’s grace. Sometimes we fail to act, not out of patience, but out of fear.

This week’s readings speak to seasons, time, and God’s providence. Using the agricultural and biological metaphors, God demonstrates how the trees grow over time. Every tree, every branch, every spot of shade, and piece of fruit is created and known by God as we learn in this week’s First Reading from Ezekiel. His designs take time to unfold, however, as nothing happens overnight. The trees take seasons to produce fruit and years to offer shade.

As the Gospel affirms, even the smallest seed can grow in due time into a powerful plant. Over time, we (the seed) must respond to the grace (water, sun, soil) of God. Responding to God in prayer and in action are the marks of the Christian’s servant heart as “we aspire to please him” as St. Paul echoes in the Second Reading. We will be judged not only for what we said or thought but for what we “did in the body, whether good or evil.”

Our lives bear fruit. Whether it is good or bad is determined by what or whom we draw our “life” from and how we respond to the source of all life.

Random Fact The Cedar of Lebanon is a tall evergreen tree known for its strength, quality, beauty, oils, and resins. Not only was it used with the great Temple of Solomon but, also, to build the ships of the Egyptian navies and pharaohs.

Behind the Scenes Many view this week’s parable strictly through the lens of a final judgment. We hear about the farmer with the sickle and almost immediately the vision of a grim reaper might appear in our subconscious. Obviously, while this does point us toward judgment day when all will have to render an account of the fruit their life did or did not bear, there is far more to the story.

Notice that throughout the farming process, it is ultimately God – and not the farmer – who controls things. Sure, the farmer can till and cast out the seed but its growth and ultimate sprouting is all contingent on God for rain, sun, etc. God is the one directing life, the farmer is just cooperating with God and, ultimately, the matter is out of his control.

Sometimes we get annoyed that God is not working from our timetable and schedule. This parable is a reminder to us all that even though we may not yet “see the fruit” of the seed that was planted, work is still happening below the perceivable surface. It’s a great reminder to be patient and trust in God’s timing. Likewise, for those of us who are control freaks and think that by “doing more” or trying to control everything we can somehow make the fruit come sooner, God is reminding us that we are to follow His timetable not vice versa.

Word PlayThe word parable is a derivative of the Latin word parabola meaning “comparison.” Of all the various manners of teaching that Jesus employed, this was the style He used most frequently to unpack the mystery of God’s love with everyday people.

Journal:1. In what ways does the body feel like “home” to you? In what ways does it feel foreign?2. What are some of the challenges of this world that make it hard to wait well for God’s

plan to be revealed (the fruit to be seen) in your life?3. How can you strive to please the Lord with your patient fidelity both in your “home” (the

Church) and away (in the world)?

Challenge for the Week:Make a list of some of your personal health goals – anything from cutting out soda from your diet, to exercising 30 minutes five times a week, or implementing more fruits and vegetables in your daily intake. Now make a list of your spiritual goals. How do these two lists look when compared to each other: Are you more ambitious with your physical or spiritual goals? Do you put more effort in achieving your physical or spiritual goals? Measure your response by how, as St. Paul says, they might please the Lord.

Johnny B GoodNativity of John the Baptist (June 24, 2018)

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Opening Prayer: Lord, each of us, Your children, are willed and loved. Help me to embrace fully the loving plan You have set before me, taking each day as another opportunity to live as intentionally as You created me. I ask that I may recognize this same purpose in every one of Your sons and daughters. I make this prayer through Your Son, Jesus. Amen.

FIRST READING Isaiah 49:1-6RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 139:1b-3, 13-14ab, 14c-15SECOND READING Acts 13:22-26GOSPEL Luke 1:57-66, 80

Beyond WordsGod is the “divine designer.” His plans are not only perfect but, also, intentional. Every life is a gift from God; more than an act of mother and father, birth is not accidental, it is an act of the creative will of God. Isaiah affirms this truth in the First Reading saying, “from my mother’s womb he gave me a name.” Each of us has a God-given purpose and vocation. Isaiah had a role to play, God raised up leaders, as we are reminded in the Second Reading, like David and John the Baptist to point to Jesus Christ, and, as the Gospel reaffirms, Zechariah and Elizabeth were set apart for a special vocation and mission.

God is purposeful in everything He does. For this we ought to be eternally thankful for God’s creation of us (as the Psalm teaches us to be). In the hundreds of years that transpired between King David’s seat upon the throne and the proclamation of a new Kingdom come through the prophecy of John the Baptist and the ministry of Jesus, God was working. After all, Zechariah and Elizabeth were well beyond child-bearing years when the Lord intervened and they conceived.

This week’s readings remind us that God is not “ironic” nor are His plans “accidental.” God’s design is perfect and intentional. Isaiah, David, John the Baptist, Elizabeth, and Zechariah weren’t the only souls God had big plans for... they just saw theirs unfold before us, that we might learn from them and trust God (even) more.

Random Fact During the season of Advent, a common decoration is called the Jesse Tree. Used to commemorate important events of the Israelite people leading up to Jesus’ birth, it is named after Jesse (mentioned in the Second Reading), who is the father of King David and, by extension, the great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great grandfather of Jesus (on Joseph’s side, obviously).

Behind the Scenes A close examination of this week’s Gospel might leave some – especially parents of newborns – scratching their heads. Why wouldn’t they know the name of the boy until the eighth day?

Jewish custom prescribed that on the eighth day the male children would be circumcised, which signaled that they now belonged officially to the family of God through the covenant oath of Abraham. Further, by also revealing the name on that day, a male child’s membership into God’s chosen people was even more linked to the covenant and the ceremonial customs.

The fact that they were bewildered by the name “John” since “there is no one among your relatives who has this name” further points to the traditional custom of a son taking the name of his father or other prominent relative. The use of “new” or “original” names was a completely

foreign concept within Jewish circles. The divine assignment of the name to John the Baptist spoke of a different vocation for which John was created.

Word PlayThere are a lot of names thrown around in this week’s readings. Biblical names often carry deep meaning and significance and this week is no different. Consider just these four famous characters: David, John, Elizabeth, and Zechariah. David means “beloved,” John means “God is gracious,” Elizabeth means “my God is an oath,” and Zechariah means “God remembers.”

Journal:1. Elizabeth’s relatives and neighbors all rejoice at the goodness the Lord shows her through

the birth of her son. Who are some of the people in your life who celebrate your joys with you?

2. When Zechariah finally accepts the will of God for his son, his tongue is freed and he regains his speech. How has the Lord freed you when you’ve accepted His will for your own life?

3. The birth of John the Baptist was a fulfillment of God’s promise to His people. What promises has the Lord fulfilled through you? For you?

Challenge for the Week:“What, then, will this child be?” Your parents and loved ones asked themselves this very question as they prepared for your birth, as they watched you grow up, and even now as you make plans for your future. Ultimately, the Lord allows you to ask this question of yourself, too: What will you be? Surely, what you will study in college, what career you will choose, and what vocation you are called to all have important parts to play in that. But more importantly, so does your character, your generosity in love, your willingness to serve others, and your continual “yes” to the Lord. So, then, ask yourself, “What will you be?” Direct your prayer this week to begin to form your answer.