The pandemic is a time in the wilderness and potentially a time of growth. In this situation, God is perhaps inviting us to rediscover the idea and practice of the domestic church. Each family is a church where God is worshipped, the faith is handed down and charity is practiced. What are some practices you currently do or would like to try that build up your domestic church?
Jesus weeps and gives life
“I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
Today's Gospel (John 11), in which Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead, encourages us to be people of compassion and hope during the time that is given us.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
Today's Gospel (John 11), in which Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead, encourages us to be people of compassion and hope during the time that is given us.
Taking risks leads to growth
Nicodemus, who appears in today's Gospel (John 7:40-53), is a character who develops greatly as a follower of Jesus. His growth comes from his willingness to take risks. Let us do the same.
What suffering reveals
Today's Gospel (John 7) refers to Jesus' "hour" (v. 30). This is the moment He is raised up on the cross. In John's Gospel, it is in the time of Jesus' greatest suffering when we discover fully who He is. Moments of suffering and challenge are moments of revelation. During this pandemic we have the opportunity to learn more about God, others and ourselves. Let us pay attention.
Selective hearing
Like the people Jesus interacts with in today's Gospel (John 5:31-47), we can have selective hearing, listening to messages that we are comfortable with and ignoring voices that challenge us. During this time it is especially important for us to check on our hearing.
God is never letting go
Happy solemnity of the the Annunciation!
This great feast celebrates the beginning of the mystery of the Incarnation (Luke 1:26-38), when God became like us in all things but sin. This is a great source of hope because it shows us that God is always with us when we suffer and struggle. In the Incarnation, God has embraced us in our weakness and is never letting go.
This great feast celebrates the beginning of the mystery of the Incarnation (Luke 1:26-38), when God became like us in all things but sin. This is a great source of hope because it shows us that God is always with us when we suffer and struggle. In the Incarnation, God has embraced us in our weakness and is never letting go.
Preserving life is greater
In today's Gospel (Jn 5:1-16) Jesus healed a man on the sabbath. In this time of pandemic, we are likewise called to adjust crucial practices of our faith to preserve life.
Jesus power crosses (social) distance
During this time of social distancing we can feel separated not just from family and friends but also from Jesus. We can question whether Jesus' grace and power can work in our lives when we are kept physically away from the Mass and Sacraments. The Gospel today (John 4:46-54) offers hope because it shows us that physical distance is no impediment to the power of Jesus.
Finding Jesus in the pandemic
Suffering is not a punishment from God. Rather, today's Gospel (John 9) shows us that Jesus is with us during hard times bringing about some good. Discovering what Jesus is doing during this pandemic will take time. A good way to start understanding this extraordinary situation is by consciously recognizing some blessing that happens each day.
The right pitch of prayer (Lk 18:8-14)
Today's Gospel (Lk 18:9-14) teaches us that there are types of prayer that God hears better than others. God hears the prayers of those who cry out in their suffering and need. Now is a time to pray.
Hospitality and Genesis 18
The encounter Abraham and Sarah have with their heavenly guests in Genesis 18 is narrated in a fascinating way and conveys an important message. The text teaches us about the power of God and therefore should give us hope. In addition, the passage reminds us of the need to provide hospitality and care to others, those we know as well as strangers. As we read in Hebrews 13:2, "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."
Hope and Genesis 15
During this time, I want to share some brief reflections on biblical passages that can encourage us. Here is my first attempt. It is not the flashiest thing in the world, but I hope it is helpful!
In Genesis 15, God makes an unconditional and unilateral covenant with Abraham. This covenant shows that whatever happens, whatever the people do, God will always be faithful. This message inspired hope to those who were exiled in Babylon. It reminded them that God had not abandoned them and would always be with them. This passage continues to be a source of hope for us.
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